2025 Top 100 MLB Players: #20 - #16

20. Freddie Freeman, First Baseman, Los Angeles Dodgers

Freddie Freeman continues to prove he's one of baseball's most consistent and productive first basemen at age 35. The eight-time All-Star has been a cornerstone for the Dodgers since joining them in 2022, following his illustrious 12-year career with the Atlanta Braves.

Freeman's 2024 season was especially memorable as he led the Dodgers to their second World Series championship in four years. Despite battling an ankle injury late in the season, Freeman delivered when it mattered most, earning World Series MVP honors with an incredible four-game home run streak in the Fall Classic. His walk-off grand slam in Game 1 was the first in World Series history, highlighting his clutch performances on baseball's biggest stage.

A career .300 hitter with 346 home runs and over 2,200 hits, Freeman combines elite power with exceptional contact skills. His left-handed swing remains one of the most beautiful and effective in baseball, and his Gold Glove-caliber defense at first base provides tremendous value. Freeman's leadership in the Dodgers clubhouse has been praised by manager Dave Roberts, who has compared him to "the modern-day Tony Gwynn."

19. Ronald Acuña Jr., Outfielder, Atlanta Braves

Ronald Acuña Jr. was having another remarkable season in 2024 before suffering his second ACL tear in three years, this time to his left knee. Despite the devastating injury in May that ended his season, Acuña's incredible talent and previous achievements keep him high on this list.

The 2023 season was historic for Acuña as he became the first player in MLB history to join the 40-70 club (41 home runs, 73 stolen bases), unanimously winning the National League MVP Award. His combination of power and speed is unmatched in today's game, and at just 27 years old, he stands as one of baseball's most electrifying talents.

Acuña's career accomplishments already include four All-Star selections, three Silver Slugger Awards, and the 2018 NL Rookie of the Year Award. Before his injury in 2024, he was batting .250 with 4 home runs and 16 stolen bases in 49 games. His exceptional acceleration and outfield arm make him a five-tool player, and the Braves are hopeful he'll return to form after rehabilitation.

18. Elly De La Cruz, Shortstop, Cincinnati Reds

Elly De La Cruz has quickly established himself as one of baseball's most exciting players. Standing 6'5" with blazing speed and tremendous power, the switch-hitting shortstop followed his promising rookie season with a breakout sophomore campaign in 2024.

After joining the Reds in June 2023, De La Cruz wasted no time showing his potential, becoming the youngest player to hit for the cycle since César Cedeño in 1972. In 2024, he earned his first All-Star selection while leading MLB in stolen bases and becoming the first shortstop in history to record a 20-60 season (25 home runs, 67 stolen bases).

De La Cruz's athletic abilities are off the charts - he's been clocked as MLB's fastest player with a sprint speed of 30.5 feet per second and has recorded the hardest infield throw in the Statcast era at 97.9 mph. While he continues to refine his approach at the plate to cut down on strikeouts, his improvement from his rookie year (.235 average) to his sophomore season shows he's on a trajectory to be a perennial All-Star. His electric style of play has made him a fan favorite and the face of the Reds' rebuilding efforts.

17. Jurickson Profar, Outfielder, Atlanta Braves

Jurickson Profar's career renaissance was one of baseball's best stories in 2024. After signing a modest $1 million contract with the Padres, the versatile outfielder put together his finest season, earning his first All-Star selection and a Silver Slugger Award.

Profar's journey has been anything but linear. Once baseball's top prospect with the Rangers, his early career was derailed by shoulder injuries that cost him two full seasons. After bouncing between four organizations, Profar finally found his stride in San Diego, where he transformed from utility infielder to a reliable corner outfielder.

In 2024, Profar posted career-highs across the board, displaying excellent bat control, power, and defensive versatility. His strong performance earned him a three-year, $42 million contract with the Atlanta Braves for 2025. The switch-hitter's patient approach at the plate and ability to play multiple positions make him a valuable addition to any lineup, and at 32, he appears to be enjoying his prime years after a long road to get there.

16. Ketel Marte, Second Baseman, Arizona Diamondbacks

Ketel Marte has established himself as one of the premier second basemen in baseball. The switch-hitter earned his second All-Star selection in 2024, following a tremendous 2023 postseason where he was named NLCS MVP after helping lead the Diamondbacks to the World Series.

Marte's 2024 season was his most powerful yet, setting career highs with 36 home runs and 95 RBIs while maintaining a .292 batting average. His performance earned him his first Silver Slugger Award and cemented his status as Arizona's cornerstone player, leading to a six-year, $116.5 million contract extension in early 2025.

What makes Marte special is his ability to hit for both average and power from both sides of the plate. His smooth swing produces line drives to all fields, and he's developed into a reliable defensive second baseman after beginning his career as a shortstop. Marte's postseason heroics in 2023 included setting an MLB record with a 20-game hitting streak to begin his playoff career, showcasing his ability to perform when the lights shine brightest.