2025 Top 100 MLB Players: #25 - #21

#25: Corbin Carroll, OF, Arizona Diamondbacks

Corbin Carroll has solidified his reputation as one of the most electrifying young athletes in baseball. The 24-year-old outfielder hails from Seattle and has emerged as an essential component of the Arizona Diamondbacks since making his debut in Major League Baseball in 2022.

Carroll's remarkable blend of speed and power establishes him as a unique threat on the field. After achieving an impressive feat in his rookie season by earning the 2023 National League Rookie of the Year award—making him the first rookie to enter the 20-home run, 50-steal club—he has continued to be one of the most exhilarating players in the sport. Although he encountered challenges during the first half of 2024, Carroll rebounded admirably after the All-Star break, showcasing enhanced power numbers.

In addition to his offensive capabilities, Carroll's defensive skills in the outfield are outstanding. His exceptional speed, which includes the fastest sprint speed recorded in the majors, allows him to cover immense ground. As he continues to refine his hitting skills, his combination of speed, power, and defensive prowess positions him as one of baseball's most valuable all-around athletes.

#24: Marcell Ozuna, DH/OF, Atlanta Braves

Marcell Ozuna, affectionately known as "The Big Bear," has demonstrated remarkable consistency at the plate, establishing himself as one of the most intimidating hitters in the National League. The 34-year-old Dominican has been a pivotal figure in the Braves' lineup since joining the team in 2020.

Ozuna's performance throughout the 2024 season was nothing short of extraordinary, as he achieved a batting average of .302, totaling 39 home runs and 104 RBIs, along with an impressive OPS of .925. His accomplishments during this season earned him a third selection as an All-Star and a noteworthy fourth-place finish in the National League's Most Valuable Player voting.

Though he primarily serves as the Braves' designated hitter, Ozuna occasionally takes on responsibilities in the outfield. His true value lies in his formidable bat, as he possesses the ability to hit for both average and power. Ozuna's knack for delivering in critical moments has made him one of the most dependable middle-of-the-order hitters in the game.

#23: Chris Sale, SP, Atlanta Braves

Following a challenging series of injury-riddled seasons with the Boston Red Sox, Chris Sale has experienced a remarkable resurgence in his career after being traded to the Atlanta Braves. The 36-year-old left-handed pitcher has reaffirmed his status among baseball's elite with a commanding 2024 season.

Sale achieved the prestigious pitching Triple Crown in the National League, leading the league in wins (18), earned run average (2.38), and strikeouts (225). This outstanding performance garnered him his first Cy Young Award, a Gold Glove, and a selection to his eighth All-Star Game.

His success is largely attributed to his distinctive low three-quarter arm angle and a devastating slider that has long been regarded as one of the best in the sport. Sale's ability to command the strike zone while maintaining high strikeout totals makes him particularly formidable against opposing hitters. After enduring several seasons plagued by injuries, he has reestablished himself as one of baseball's premier starting pitchers.

#22: William Contreras, C, Milwaukee Brewers

William Contreras has evolved into one of the foremost hitting catchers in baseball since joining the Milwaukee Brewers. The 27-year-old Venezuelan backstop has built upon his previous All-Star selection with Atlanta in 2022, establishing himself as a foundational player for the Brewers.

Contreras followed up a Silver Slugger-winning 2023 season, where he posted a batting average of .289 with a .367 on-base percentage and a .457 slugging percentage, with another solid year in 2024. He finished the season with a batting average of .281 and an OPS of .831 over the course of 155 games. His offensive output from the catcher position is particularly valuable, as he offers both power and consistency in a role often associated more with defensive capabilities.

While his defensive skills behind the plate have shown room for improvement, Contreras demonstrated notable progress in 2023, despite facing slight setbacks in 2024. Nevertheless, his overall value as a catcher who can perform at an elite hitting level while providing adequate defensive support makes him one of the most valuable backstops in baseball.

#21: Seth Lugo, SP, Kansas City Royals

Seth Lugo has successfully transformed himself from a dependable reliever into one of baseball's leading starting pitchers. After inking a three-year contract with the Kansas City Royals prior to the 2024 season, the 35-year-old experienced a breakout campaign that positioned him among the elite in the sport.

Lugo's 2024 season was nothing short of revelatory, as he led Major League Baseball in innings pitched during the first half while posting an impressive American League-best earned run average of 2.21. This exceptional performance earned him his first selection as an All-Star and a runner-up finish in the voting for the American League Cy Young Award. Furthermore, he was awarded his first Gold Glove, highlighting his all-around excellence on the mound.

What sets Lugo apart is his diverse pitch repertoire, prominently featuring one of the best curveballs in the sport. His durability and efficiency were showcased when he delivered his first career complete game in July 2024. Having spent years as a versatile swingman with the Mets, Lugo has finally discovered his true calling as a frontline starter, emerging as the ace of the Royals' pitching staff.