The 2025 MLB season is approaching, and the excitement among baseball analysts is already peaking. While fans might have their pick, the mainstream discussion regarding the potential stars destined to win Rookie of the Year honors is diverse.
Major League Baseball has a rich history of young talent breaking into the scene. With the annual MLB Pipeline Poll, front-office insiders, scouts, and analysts share their predictions on the top contenders for this coveted award.
Let’s examine the top five candidates expected to make waves in 2025, breaking down their strengths and projected impact as they seek to claim Rookie of the Year status.
American League Contenders
5. Jackson Chourio, OF, Milwaukee Brewers
Although Jackson Chourio finished third in the 2024 voting behind Paul Skenes and Evan Carter, he remains a prominent figure in discussions for the 2025 Rookie of the Year.
Do you ever just sit and remember Jackson Chourio had a two-homer game as a 20-year-old in his first postseason? pic.twitter.com/sEyIBeJHpu
— Dominic Cotroneo (@Dom_Cotroneo) December 18, 2024
With his ability to hit for average and power, Chourio could see his star rise further if he adapts well to Major League pitching.
4. Kristian Campbell, 2B, Boston Red Sox
Kristian Campbell emerged as MLB Pipeline’s hitting and breakout prospect of the year, ending 2024 with a phenomenal .997 OPS. With the Red Sox needing a reliable second baseman, Campbell’s right-handed bat could be a valuable addition to their lineup.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral MLB stories via Google! Follow Us
Kristian Campbell DOES IT AGAIN
— Worcester Red Sox (@WooSox) August 24, 2024
His second Triple-A HR and second of the night makes it 8-4 WooSox! pic.twitter.com/qwte4BHnau
His combination of discipline at the plate and power gives him a legitimate shot at making a significant impact.
3. Khalil Watson, SS, Baltimore Orioles
Marlins prospect Khalil Watson just stole home to tie the game in the 9th inning! pic.twitter.com/Z82KYI9XDC
— Farm To Fame (@FarmToFame_) July 4, 2023
Khalil Watson is another name to watch despite not having a clear path to the Orioles’ lineup just yet. His raw power and potential could allow the organization to find a way to integrate him into their roster. After initially shining in the minor leagues, Watson is primed for breakout potential in the elite atmosphere of the American League East.
2. Jack Leiter, RHP, Detroit Tigers
Jack Leiter, the former Vanderbilt ace, got a taste of MLB action last year, even participating in postseason play. The Tigers are looking to pack their starting rotation, and Leiter is ready to seize his opportunity.
Jack Leiter strikes out the first batter of his MLB career on three pitches pic.twitter.com/XmolB8p82d
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) April 18, 2024
His experience from last season and impressive minor league performances set him up as a favorite in discussions about Rookie of the Year. For the most part, that will depend on whether he can remain healthy and continue his development.
1. Roman Anthony, OF, Boston Red Sox
Roman Anthony tied for the most votes in the MLB Pipeline Poll and is emerging as a significant contender in the American League. At just 20 years old, Anthony displayed his power at Triple-A with a stellar .894 OPS in the 2024 season.
Roman Anthony is about to dominate MLB at just 20 years old and nobody is ready for it pic.twitter.com/vLoXhlVaTb
— Jarren Duran Enjoyer (@JDuranEnjoyer) January 4, 2025
The Red Sox outfield might be crowded, but there’s strong sentiment within the organization to find a spot for him. Obviously, his offensive strengths are to be credited for it. With an eye on the future, expect Anthony to push for regular playing time early in the season.
National League Contenders
5. Kyle Teel, C, Chicago White Sox
Welcome to Greenville, Kyle Teel! His first High-A base hit is slapped into right for a single. pic.twitter.com/NkfcL2PXJi
— Greenville Drive (@GreenvilleDrive) August 9, 2023
Kyle Teel adds depth to the list, representing another promising catching prospect. His performance in the minor leagues has been commendable, and the White Sox could look to him in the lineup, especially with their ongoing transition.
4. Jordan Lawlar, SS, Arizona Diamondbacks
Despite an injury-plagued 2024 season, Jordan Lawlar’s talent is undeniable. With an OPS of .899 in the minors, he has flashed the potential necessary to be a Major League star.
Not your fault ump, we already know Jordan Lawlar has this in his bag 🤩 pic.twitter.com/poNFTljcPt
— Reno Aces (@Aces) November 6, 2024
Now 22 years old, maintaining health and securing a steady opportunity will be crucial as the Diamondbacks look to build their future around young talent.
3. Paul Skenes, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates
Paul Skenes is unreal pic.twitter.com/IiMnm0dTu9
— Baseball Quotes (@BaseballQuotes1) May 17, 2024
Fresh off his impressive rookie campaign, Paul Skenes is a name synonymous with success in the league. He is expected to build on his prior achievements, and even if he starts the season in Triple-A, his talent makes him a likely candidate to pitch meaningful innings in the MLB. His dynamic skillset underscores the belief that he could contend for the award again.
2. Brock Shaw, 3B, Chicago Cubs
Brock Shaw is on track to play an essential role for the Cubs after trading Isaac Paredes to the Astros, opening a spot at third base. Shaw excelled in 2024, hitting 21 home runs and stealing 31 bases, which illustrates his potential as a dual threat. His recent performance in the Premier12 Tournament for Team USA solidifies his readiness for the challenge ahead.
1. Dylan Crews, OF, Washington Nationals
Dylan Crews makes his MLB Debut tonight at 5:45 against the Yankees. Calabria 2008 is the song of the day 🐐 pic.twitter.com/GZb3HAKZLA
— TheOffSZN (@Nolan020202) August 26, 2024
Dylan Crews is widely regarded as the clear favorite to secure the Rookie of the Year title in the National League. After a solid minor league season and a brief stint in the big leagues, Crews is expected to be the Nationals’ Opening Day right fielder. His offensive contributions could make a significant impact, and expectations are high for the young outfielder.
Special Mention: Roki Sasaki
Roki Sasaki, the highly coveted Japanese pitcher, cannot be overlooked in these Rookies of the Year discussions. Regardless of which league he ends up in, most executives surveyed believe he will be an immediate favorite to win the award.
If Japanese RHP Roki Sasaki were to indeed come to the MLB through international free agency, we would immediately have Sasaki as our #1 prospect in baseball. https://t.co/D2dkT951ix pic.twitter.com/SXt4UMDjeK
— Next Generation Baseball (@NextGenBaseball) December 11, 2023
The twenty-three-year-old right-hander has generated buzz for his extraordinary skills on the mound. And that makes him one of the most exciting prospects to follow in 2025.