2025 Top 100 MLB Players: #55 - #51

55. Riley Greene, OF, Detroit Tigers

Detroit Tigers outfielder Riley Greene is firmly establishing himself as one of baseball's most promising young talents. At just 24 years old, having been chosen fifth overall in the 2019 MLB draft, Greene has become an essential figure in the Tigers' efforts to rejuvenate their team.

Greene's journey to the major leagues was fraught with obstacles. Although he showcased his immense potential in the minor leagues, his debut in the MLB was postponed due to a foot injury suffered in 2022. Nevertheless, upon his arrival, Greene made an immediate and unforgettable impact, highlighted by a dramatic walk-off home run against the Kansas City Royals—making him the first Tiger to achieve a walk-off home run in his first career hit since Lou Whitaker in 1978.

In the 2024 season, Greene received his first All-Star selection after finishing the year with a batting average of .262, alongside 24 home runs and 74 RBIs over the course of 137 games. His remarkable combination of power, keen plate discipline, and defensive prowess in the outfield played a pivotal role in helping the Tigers break a 10-year absence from the playoffs.

54. Ian Happ, OF, Chicago Cubs

Ian Happ has emerged as one of the National League's most dependable outfielders. The switch-hitting 30-year-old has become an integral part of the Chicago Cubs since he made his MLB debut in 2017.

Happ's defensive skills are irrefutable, as evidenced by his achievement of three consecutive Gold Glove Awards spanning from 2022 to 2024 for his performance in left field. His dedication to enhancing his defensive capabilities has transitioned him from a versatile player to an elite defender in his position.

On the offensive front, Happ's value lies in his versatility as a switch-hitter, boasting solid power and on-base abilities. His consistent performance was recognized with an All-Star selection in 2022, a year during which he also received his inaugural Gold Glove award. Understanding his significance to the team, the Cubs secured his services with a three-year, $61 million extension in April 2023.

53. Willy Adames, SS, San Francisco Giants

Willy Adames joined the San Francisco Giants in the offseason, signing a historic seven-year, $182 million contract—the most lucrative in the franchise's history. The 29-year-old Dominican shortstop offers a potent mix of power, solid defensive skills, and leadership presence in the clubhouse.

Previously, Adames spent four successful seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers, where he garnered a dedicated fan base following his acquisition from the Tampa Bay Rays during the 2021 season. His impressive power numbers continued in 2024, as he tied a major league record by hitting home runs in five consecutive games as a shortstop.

With a reputation for strong defensive play and steady offensive contributions, Adames concluded the 2024 season with a 4.7 WAR, placing him among the top 20 most valuable players in baseball. His remarkable durability, having started all but one game for the Brewers in 2024, along with his leadership qualities, made him a highly sought-after target during free agency for the Giants.

52. Matt Chapman, 3B, San Francisco Giants

Matt Chapman solidified his future with the Giants in 2024 by signing a six-year, $151 million extension after initially joining the team on a one-year contract. The 31-year-old third baseman is widely acknowledged as one of baseball's elite defensive talents.

Chapman's career boasts an impressive collection of defensive accolades, including five Gold Glove Awards, two Platinum Glove Awards, and three Fielding Bible Awards. His extraordinary arm strength and fielding range at third base make him a standout contributor on the defensive side of the game.

In terms of offense, Chapman brings significant power from the right side of the plate. During his stints with both the Oakland Athletics and Toronto Blue Jays, he consistently exhibited the potential to hit over 30 home runs, even while playing in pitcher-friendly stadiums. Now paired with his fellow infielder Willy Adames, Chapman reinforces the Giants' infield with one of the most defensively adept left sides in baseball.

51. Cole Ragans, SP, Kansas City Royals

Cole Ragans experienced a significant transformation in his career in 2023 when the Kansas City Royals acquired him from the Texas Rangers. After facing challenges as a reliever in Texas, Ragans found his rhythm within Kansas City's starting rotation.

The 27-year-old left-hander's road to success was anything but straightforward. His growth was hindered by two Tommy John surgeries, yet his determination ultimately paid off in 2024 when he received his first All-Star selection. Ragans showcased his formidable skills throughout the season, posting a stellar 3.28 ERA in 19 starts before the All-Star break.

On September 6, 2024, Ragans made history by becoming only the fifth pitcher in Royals franchise history to strike out 200 batters in a single season, joining the elite ranks of Zack Greinke, Kevin Appier, Dennis Leonard, and Bob Johnson. The Royals rewarded his breakout season with a three-year, $13.25 million contract that will cover his final pre-arbitration year as well as his first two arbitration years.