2025 Top 100 MLB Players: #70 - #66

#70: Fernando Tatis Jr., San Diego Padres

The electrifying Fernando Tatis Jr. continues to dazzle as one of baseball's most dynamic players. Known by his monikers "El Niño" and "Bebo," the 26-year-old Dominican sensation has adeptly made the transition from shortstop to right field for the Padres.

Tatis burst onto the MLB landscape in 2019 and swiftly cemented his status as a premier talent. After missing the entire 2022 season, he made a triumphant return in 2023, earning both a Gold Glove and the esteemed Platinum Glove Award for his outstanding defensive performance in right field. His remarkable athleticism enables him to execute highlight-reel catches while covering extensive ground in the outfield.

Offensively, Tatis remains a formidable threat. His rapid and powerful swing generates considerable power, as demonstrated by his tally of 21 home runs in just 102 games during the injury-shortened 2024 season. When fully healthy, Tatis exemplifies a true five-tool player, impacting games with his bat, glove, arm, and impressive speed on the basepaths.

Tatis showcased his capabilities in the playoffs during October 2024, launching two home runs in Game 2 of the NLDS against the Dodgers, including a crucial ninth-inning blast that extended the Padres' lead. Signed until 2034 on a 14-year, $340 million contract, Tatis is a vital component of the Padres' future ambitions.

#69: Bryan Reynolds, Pittsburgh Pirates

Bryan Reynolds remains one of baseball's most steadfast and often-underappreciated stars. The switch-hitting outfielder has been a reliable presence for the Pirates since making his MLB debut in 2019.

The 30-year-old Reynolds blends exceptional bat control with burgeoning power. His fluid, balanced swing from both sides of the plate makes him a challenging opponent for any pitcher. Although he may not attract the attention of players in larger markets, Reynolds has established himself as one of the National League's most dependable outfielders, earning his second All-Star selection in 2024.

In April 2023, Reynolds signed an eight-year, $106.75 million contract extension, the largest in Pirates history, thereby solidifying his status as a cornerstone of the franchise. His capability to hit for both average and power, paired with solid defensive skills, renders him an invaluable asset in Pittsburgh's rebuilding efforts.

While consistency is Reynolds' hallmark, he is also capable of delivering explosive performances, exemplified by his three-home-run game against Washington in 2022. His professional approach at the plate and understated leadership have cultivated respect not only within the Pirates organization but also throughout the league.

#68: Josh Hader, Houston Astros

In recent seasons, Josh Hader has firmly established his dominance as one of the most formidable relief pitchers in baseball. The 31-year-old left-hander joined the Houston Astros prior to the 2024 season on a five-year, $95 million contract following successful tenures with the Milwaukee Brewers and the San Diego Padres.

Hader's inaugural season in Houston validated the substantial contract he received. He made 71 appearances, accumulated 34 saves, and struck out 105 batters over 71 innings. His deceptive pitching motion and overpowering arsenal render him nearly unhittable at certain moments.

A five-time All-Star and three-time NL Reliever of the Year, Hader features an impressive fastball-slider combination that consistently induces swings and misses. His fastball velocity, coupled with natural deception, makes him especially challenging for left-handed batters.

Notably, Hader achieved a career milestone in early 2025 when he recorded his 200th career save on Opening Day against the New York Mets, striking out Juan Soto with two runners on base to secure a 3-1 triumph for the Astros. His poise under pressure significantly enhances Houston's championship aspirations.

#67: Tanner Scott, Los Angeles Dodgers

Tanner Scott's ascent to elite reliever status culminated in a lucrative four-year, $72 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers prior to the 2025 season. The hard-throwing lefty earned this substantial deal following an impressive 2024 campaign split between the Miami Marlins and San Diego Padres.

In 2024, Scott dominated with a minuscule 1.18 ERA, achieving 53 strikeouts and 18 saves across 45⅔ innings for Miami before being traded to San Diego at the trade deadline. His remarkable performance earned him his first All-Star selection and solidified his reputation as one of baseball's elite relievers.

With the Padres, Scott continued his exceptional performance into the playoffs, where he threw 4⅓ scoreless innings with seven strikeouts across five postseason appearances. Particularly noteworthy was his ability to handle Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani in the Division Series, as he struck him out four times.

The 30-year-old Ohio native features a power fastball that frequently exceeds 95 mph, complemented by a devastating slider that induces numerous swings and misses. In 2025, Scott has already made his mark with the Dodgers, becoming just the fifth pitcher in recorded history to complete a save using only three pitches while facing three batters.

#66: Gerrit Cole, New York Yankees

Despite losing the 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery, Gerrit Cole’s distinguished track record and anticipated future dominance secure his place on this list. The 34-year-old Yankees ace is currently recuperating from the procedure but is anticipated to return to his elite form in 2026.

Cole’s 2023 season is arguably his finest to date, as he earned the American League Cy Young Award by unanimous vote after finishing with a 15-4 record, a 2.63 ERA, and 222 strikeouts in 209 innings. He topped the AL with 24 quality starts and showcased exceptional command evidenced by a 0.98 WHIP.

Though injuries limited Cole to just seven regular-season starts in 2024, he made a timely return to contribute in the postseason, making two World Series starts against the Los Angeles Dodgers. After the season, Cole opted out of his contract but ultimately decided to return to the Yankees to continue his career in pinstripes.

When fully healthy, Cole remains one of baseball's preeminent starting pitchers. His potent arsenal featuring a four-seam fastball, slider, and knuckle curve consistently results in swinging strikes. Cole holds the single-season strikeout records for both the Astros (326 in 2019) and the Yankees (257 in 2022), underscoring his elite ability to miss bats.

While his absence in 2025 due to surgery presents a significant obstacle, Cole's history of excellence and anticipated return sustain his position among the elite players in baseball.