2025 Top 100 MLB Players: #45 - #41

#45. Logan Gilbert - Seattle Mariners

Logan Gilbert of the Seattle Mariners is increasingly recognized as one of the most dependable starting pitchers in the American League. At 27 years old, this right-handed pitcher has just completed his inaugural All-Star season in 2024, during which he led Major League Baseball with an impressive 208⅔ innings pitched and maintained a commendable Earned Run Average (ERA) of 3.23.

Gilbert’s achievements can be attributed to his extraordinary physical attributes and meticulous pitch development. With a height of 6 feet 6 inches and notably large hands, he generates deception through one of the longest arm extensions in the sport. This enables him to release the ball closer to home plate than many of his peers, consequently providing batters with limited reaction time.

What sets Gilbert apart is his unwavering commitment to improving his craft. After mastering a slider from the renowned pitcher Jacob deGrom in 2022, he further diversified his repertoire by introducing a splitter in 2023 and a cutter in 2024. His four-seam fastball consistently reaches speeds of 95 mph, enhancing an already expanding collection of pitches.

Gilbert has developed a reputation for his durability and efficiency, becoming an essential component of the Mariners’ formidable rotation alongside fellow pitcher George Kirby. On days he takes the mound, Gilbert transforms into an intense persona he calls "Walter," a technique that he adopted during his collegiate years at Stetson University.

#44. Jarren Duran - Boston Red Sox

Jarren Duran’s exceptional speed and refined hitting technique have propelled him to become one of baseball's most exhilarating leadoff hitters. The 28-year-old outfielder for the Boston Red Sox had a career-defining year in 2024, in which he led MLB in plate appearances (735), at-bats (675), and doubles (48), while also tying for the league lead with 14 triples.

Duran's remarkable quickness makes him a constant threat on the bases and allows him to cover significant ground in the outfield. His offensive performance in 2024 saw a considerable upgrade; he posted an impressive slash line of .285/.342/.492, contributing 111 runs, 24 home runs, and 75 RBIs, which placed him eighth in the American League MVP voting.

The California native achieved his first selection to the All-Star Game in 2024, earning the prestigious All-Star Game MVP title after hitting a game-winning home run. His stellar performance also secured him a position on the All-MLB Second Team.

After facing challenges early in his career, Duran has emerged as Boston's driving force at the head of the lineup. His blend of swift base running and emerging power has rendered him one of the most captivating players in the American League.

#43. Trea Turner - Philadelphia Phillies

Trea Turner remains one of baseball's most well-rounded shortstops, skillfully combining exceptional speed with consistent hitting proficiency and growing power. In his second season with the Philadelphia Phillies, Turner received his third All-Star selection in 2024, starting at shortstop for the National League.

At 31 years of age, Turner brings elite baserunning abilities to the Phillies, having stolen over 30 bases in six different seasons throughout his career. In 2023, he established a remarkable MLB record by successfully stealing 30 bases without being caught, showcasing both his speed and keen baseball acumen on the basepaths.

Turner boasts a career batting average of .295, underscoring his hitting capability, while he continues to develop his power with a total of 172 career home runs. Following a sluggish start with the Phillies in 2023, Turner experienced a surge in performance after receiving a standing ovation from fans in August, finishing the last 48 games with a batting average of .337 and 16 home runs.

His extensive postseason experience adds significant value to the Phillies, having secured a World Series title with the Washington Nationals in 2019. Turner also excelled on the international stage, tying the World Baseball Classic home run record with five home runs while representing Team USA in 2023.

#42. Teoscar Hernández - Los Angeles Dodgers

Teoscar Hernández's formidable batting power and clutch performances have made him an indispensable member of the Los Angeles Dodgers' World Series championship team in 2024. After signing with the Dodgers as a free agent, the 32-year-old outfielder had an outstanding season, concluding with a batting average of .272, coupled with 33 home runs and 99 RBIs.

In 2024, Hernández earned his second career All-Star selection and secured his third Silver Slugger Award. His remarkable power was prominently displayed when he triumphed in the 2024 Home Run Derby, becoming the first Dodger to achieve this accolade.

During the 2024 postseason, Hernández delivered several pivotal hits, including a grand slam in the National League Division Series against the Padres. His performance peaked in the World Series against the Yankees, where he batted .350, contributed a home run, and recorded four RBIs, including a game-tying two-run double against Gerrit Cole in the decisive fifth game.

Acknowledging Hernández's contributions, the Dodgers signed him to a lucrative three-year, $66 million contract in January 2025. Known by the nickname "Mr. Seeds" for his tradition of tossing sunflower seeds to teammates following home runs, Hernández adds both production and an engaging personality to the Dodger lineup.

#41. Jose Altuve - Houston Astros

Jose Altuve continues to solidify his status as one of the finest second basemen in the history of baseball. At 34 years old, this star player for the Astros is the longest-serving current member of the team and is the sole remaining player from their National League days.

Altuve's illustrious career includes nine All-Star selections (a franchise record), three batting titles, two World Series championships, and the prestigious 2017 American League MVP award. Despite standing at a modest 5 feet 6 inches, he has consistently proven that height is no hindrance to achieving excellence in the sport.

In 2024, Altuve garnered his ninth All-Star selection and seventh Silver Slugger Award, which ties him with Ryne Sandberg for the highest total among any second baseman in MLB history. His career batting average of .306 remains the highest among all active players.

Altuve's postseason achievements are particularly noteworthy. As of the 2024 postseason, he ranks second all-time in postseason home runs (27) and runs scored (89), third in hits (118), and seventh in RBIs (56). His ten go-ahead postseason home runs are the most recorded in MLB history.

After finalizing a five-year, $125 million contract extension in February 2024, Altuve is set to remain with the Astros until 2029. The team has announced a position change for 2025, transitioning him to left field as he embarks on the next chapter of his distinguished career.