2025 Top 100 MLB Players: #25 - #21

#25: Corbin Carroll, OF, Arizona Diamondbacks

Corbin Carroll continues to be one of baseball's most dynamic young talents. The 24-year-old outfielder from Seattle has become a cornerstone for the Arizona Diamondbacks since making his MLB debut in 2022.

Carroll's combination of speed and pop makes him a unique threat. After winning the 2023 National League Rookie of the Year award with a historic season (becoming the first rookie to join the 20-home run, 50-steal club), Carroll has maintained his status as one of baseball's most exciting players. Despite facing a sophomore slump in the first half of 2024, he bounced back strongly after the All-Star break with improved power numbers.

Carroll's defense in the outfield remains elite, using his remarkable speed (he's been clocked with the fastest sprint speed in the majors) to cover tremendous ground. As he continues to mature as a hitter, his combination of speed, power, and defensive excellence makes him one of baseball's most valuable all-around players.

#24: Marcell Ozuna, DH/OF, Atlanta Braves

Marcell Ozuna, nicknamed "The Big Bear," has shown remarkable consistency at the plate while becoming one of the most feared hitters in the National League. The 34-year-old from the Dominican Republic has been a crucial part of the Braves' lineup since joining the team in 2020.

Ozuna's 2024 season was especially impressive, as he batted .302 with 39 home runs and 104 RBIs while posting a .925 OPS. This performance earned him his third All-Star selection and a fourth-place finish in NL MVP voting.

While primarily serving as the Braves' designated hitter, Ozuna occasionally plays in the outfield. His true value comes from his powerful bat and ability to hit for both average and power. Ozuna's ability to produce in high-leverage situations has made him one of the most reliable middle-of-the-order hitters in baseball.

#23: Chris Sale, SP, Atlanta Braves

After several injury-plagued seasons with the Boston Red Sox, Chris Sale experienced a remarkable career resurgence after being traded to the Atlanta Braves. The 36-year-old left-hander proved he still ranks among baseball's elite pitchers with a dominant 2024 campaign.

Sale captured the pitching Triple Crown in the National League, leading the league in wins (18), ERA (2.38), and strikeouts (225). This remarkable performance earned him his first Cy Young Award, Gold Glove, and a selection to his eighth All-Star Game.

Sale's success comes from his distinctive low three-quarter arm angle delivery and a devastating slider that has long been considered one of the best in baseball. His ability to command both sides of the plate while maintaining high strikeout totals makes him especially tough on opposing hitters. After several frustrating seasons derailed by injuries, Sale has reestablished himself as one of baseball's premier starting pitchers.

#22: William Contreras, C, Milwaukee Brewers

William Contreras has blossomed into one of baseball's best-hitting catchers since joining the Milwaukee Brewers. The 27-year-old Venezuelan backstop has built upon his All-Star selection with Atlanta in 2022 to become a cornerstone player for the Brewers.

Contreras followed up his Silver Slugger-winning 2023 season (.289/.367/.457) with another strong year in 2024, batting .281 with an .831 OPS over 155 games. His offensive production from the catcher position is especially valuable, as he provides power and consistency in a position typically known more for defense.

While his defense behind the plate has been a work in progress, Contreras showed significant improvement in 2023 before a slight regression in 2024. Still, his overall value as a catcher who can hit at an elite level while providing adequate defense makes him one of baseball's most valuable backstops.

#21: Seth Lugo, SP, Kansas City Royals

Seth Lugo has transformed himself from a reliable reliever to one of baseball's premier starting pitchers. After signing a three-year deal with the Kansas City Royals before the 2024 season, the 35-year-old had a breakout campaign that established him among the game's elite.

Lugo's 2024 season was a revelation, as he led MLB in innings pitched during the first half while posting an American League-best 2.21 ERA. This earned him his first All-Star selection and a second-place finish in AL Cy Young Award voting. He also captured his first Gold Glove Award, showcasing his all-around excellence on the mound.

What makes Lugo special is his pitch repertoire, highlighted by one of baseball's best curveballs. His durability and efficiency were on full display when he tossed his first career complete game in July 2024. After years as a versatile swingman with the Mets, Lugo has found his true calling as a frontline starter and has become the ace of the Royals' pitching staff.