2025 Top 100 MLB Players: #70 - #66

#70: Fernando Tatis Jr., San Diego Padres

The electrifying Fernando Tatis Jr. continues to shine as one of baseball's most dynamic players. Known by his nicknames "El Niño" and "Bebo," the 26-year-old Dominican star has successfully transitioned from shortstop to right field for the Padres.

Tatis burst onto the MLB scene in 2019 and quickly established himself as a premier talent. After missing the 2022 season, he returned in 2023 with a vengeance, winning both a Gold Glove and the prestigious Platinum Glove Award for his outstanding defensive play in right field. His remarkable athleticism allows him to make highlight-reel catches while covering extensive ground in the outfield.

Offensively, Tatis remains a formidable threat. His quick, powerful swing generates impressive power, as evidenced by his 21 home runs in just 102 games during an injury-shortened 2024 season. When healthy, Tatis is a true five-tool player who impacts games with his bat, glove, arm, and speed on the basepaths.

Tatis showcased his playoff prowess in October 2024, blasting two home runs in Game 2 of the NLDS against the Dodgers, including a ninth-inning shot that extended the Padres' lead. Signed through 2034 on a 14-year, $340 million contract, Tatis remains a cornerstone of the Padres' future.

#69: Bryan Reynolds, Pittsburgh Pirates

Bryan Reynolds continues to be one of baseball's most consistent and underappreciated stars. The switch-hitting outfielder has been a steady force for the Pirates since his MLB debut in 2019.

The 30-year-old Reynolds combines excellent bat control with developing power. His smooth, balanced swing from both sides of the plate makes him a tough out for any pitcher. Though he doesn't receive the spotlight of players in larger markets, Reynolds has established himself as one of the National League's most reliable outfielders, earning his second All-Star selection in 2024.

After signing an eight-year, $106.75 million contract extension in April 2023 (the largest in Pirates history), Reynolds solidified his position as the franchise cornerstone. His ability to hit for average and power while playing solid defense makes him an invaluable asset for Pittsburgh's rebuilding efforts.

While consistency is Reynolds' calling card, he's also capable of explosive performances, as demonstrated when he hit three home runs in a single game against Washington in 2022. His professional approach at the plate and quiet leadership have made him a respected figure both within the Pirates organization and around baseball.

#68: Josh Hader, Houston Astros

Over the past several seasons, Josh Hader has firmly established himself as one of the most dominant 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 after successful stints with the Milwaukee Brewers and San Diego Padres.

Hader's first season in Houston proved why he received such a significant contract. He made 71 appearances with 34 saves, striking out 105 batters in 71 innings. His deceptive delivery and overwhelming stuff continue to make him nearly unhittable at times.

A five-time All-Star and three-time NL Reliever of the Year, Hader features a devastating fastball-slider combination that consistently generates swings and misses. His fastball velocity and natural deception make him particularly difficult for left-handed batters to handle.

Hader reached 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 Astros victory. His ability to handle high-pressure situations makes him an invaluable asset for Houston's championship aspirations.

#67: Tanner Scott, Los Angeles Dodgers

Tanner Scott's rise to elite reliever status culminated in a massive four-year, $72 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers prior to the 2025 season. The hard-throwing lefty earned this payday after a remarkable 2024 campaign split between the Miami Marlins and San Diego Padres.

Scott dominated in 2024, posting a microscopic 1.18 ERA with 53 strikeouts and 18 saves across 45⅔ innings for Miami before being traded to San Diego at the deadline. His performance earned him his first All-Star selection and established him as one of baseball's premier relievers.

With the Padres, Scott continued his excellence down the stretch and into the playoffs, where he threw 4⅓ scoreless innings with seven strikeouts across five postseason games. Particularly impressive was his handling of Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani in the Division Series, striking him out four times.

The 30-year-old Ohio native possesses a power fastball that regularly exceeds 95 mph complemented by a wipeout slider that generates plenty of swings and misses. Scott has already made his mark with the Dodgers in 2025, becoming just the fifth pitcher on record to record a save on three pitches while facing three batters.

#66: Gerrit Cole, New York Yankees

Despite his 2025 season being lost to Tommy John surgery, Gerrit Cole's track record and expected future dominance earn him a spot on this list. The 34-year-old Yankees ace is recovering from the procedure but is expected to return to his elite form in 2026.

Cole's 2023 season was arguably his finest, as he captured the American League Cy Young Award by unanimous vote after posting a 15-4 record with a 2.63 ERA and 222 strikeouts in 209 innings. He led the AL with 24 quality starts and demonstrated exceptional command with a 0.98 WHIP.

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

When healthy, Cole remains one of baseball's most dominant starting pitchers. His four-seam fastball, slider, and knuckle curve form a devastating arsenal that consistently generates swings and misses. Cole holds both the Astros (326 in 2019) and Yankees (257 in 2022) single-season strikeout records, highlighting his elite ability to miss bats.

While his absence in 2025 due to surgery is a significant setback, Cole's history of excellence and expected return maintain his position among baseball's elite players.