2025 Top 100 MLB Players: #95 - #91

95. Spencer Schwellenbach, Atlanta Braves

Spencer Schwellenbach has quickly established himself as a promising arm in the Braves' rotation after making his MLB debut in May 2024. The 24-year-old right-hander has posted impressive numbers in his first season, compiling a 9-7 record with a solid 3.01 ERA and 141 strikeouts.

Originally a two-way player at Nebraska where he won the John Olerud Award as the nation's best two-way player, Schwellenbach has focused exclusively on pitching since being selected by Atlanta in the second round of the 2021 MLB Draft. His development was briefly delayed by Tommy John surgery shortly after signing, but he's made up for lost time with his rapid rise through the Braves' system.

After starting 2024 in the minors, Schwellenbach earned his promotion to Atlanta with a dominant 1.80 ERA across eight starts between High-A and Double-A. While his MLB debut against Washington resulted in a loss, he quickly adjusted to major league competition and has become a reliable starter in the Braves' rotation. His ability to miss bats and limit hard contact has the organization excited about his future.

94. Christian Walker, Houston Astros

After eight seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Christian Walker brought his Gold Glove defense and power bat to Houston when he signed a three-year, $60 million contract with the Astros in December 2024.

The 34-year-old first baseman has established himself as one of baseball's premier defenders at the position, winning three consecutive Gold Glove Awards from 2022-2024 during his time in Arizona. Walker's defensive excellence is matched by his offensive production — he hit 26 home runs with 84 RBIs in 2024 for the Diamondbacks before hitting free agency.

Walker took a circuitous path to stardom, originally drafted by the Orioles in 2012 after helping South Carolina win back-to-back College World Series titles. After brief stints with Baltimore, he found his footing with Arizona, particularly after Paul Goldschmidt's departure opened the door for consistent playing time. Walker helped lead the Diamondbacks to the 2023 National League pennant before bringing his talents to Houston, where he's already made an impact with a home run in an early April victory against the Twins.

93. Spencer Steer, Cincinnati Reds

Spencer Steer has emerged as one of the Cincinnati Reds' most versatile and valuable players since his MLB debut in September 2022. The 27-year-old utility player offers manager David Bell incredible flexibility with his ability to play multiple positions effectively.

Steer came to Cincinnati via the 2022 trade deadline deal that sent pitcher Tyler Mahle to Minnesota. He made an immediate impact in his debut, going 2-for-2 with his first major league home run and two walks. Since then, Steer has continued to develop into a consistent contributor for the Reds' lineup.

The former Oregon Duck was originally selected by Minnesota in the third round of the 2019 MLB Draft. After making steady progress through the minor leagues, including a standout 2021 season where he hit 24 home runs across two levels, Steer has established himself as part of Cincinnati's young core. His combination of power potential and defensive versatility makes him particularly valuable in today's game.

92. Anthony Volpe, New York Yankees

Anthony Volpe continues to develop as the New York Yankees' shortstop of the present and future. The 23-year-old Gold Glove winner has been growing into his role since making his MLB debut on Opening Day 2023 when he became the youngest Yankees shortstop to start on Opening Day since Derek Jeter.

Volpe's defensive excellence was recognized immediately, as he became the first Yankees rookie ever to win a Gold Glove Award in his debut season. While his offensive numbers have been steadily improving, his glove work and baserunning have been consistently outstanding – he stole 24 bases as a rookie and followed up with 28 stolen bases in 2024.

A native New Yorker who grew up a Yankees fan, Volpe was selected by the team in the first round of the 2019 MLB Draft. Despite being only 5'11", he's shown surprising power, hitting 21 home runs during his rookie campaign. His postseason performance in 2024 was particularly impressive, as he hit a grand slam in Game 4 of the World Series, becoming the first player with four RBIs and two stolen bases in a World Series game.

91. Nick Castellanos, Philadelphia Phillies

Nick Castellanos continues to be a key contributor for the Philadelphia Phillies since signing a five-year, $100 million contract prior to the 2022 season. Now in his 12th major league season, the 33-year-old right fielder brings a reliable power bat to the Phillies lineup.

Castellanos has been remarkably durable throughout his career, playing in all 162 games for Philadelphia in 2024 while hitting 23 home runs and driving in 86 runs. His power and consistency at the plate have been his calling cards throughout his career, which began with the Detroit Tigers in 2013.

Before joining Philadelphia, Castellanos made stops with the Cubs and Reds, earning All-Star selections in 2021 and 2023. While with Cincinnati in 2021, he posted career-high numbers with a .309 batting average and 34 home runs, earning a Silver Slugger Award and All-MLB Second Team honors. Though primarily valued for his offense, Castellanos has worked to improve his defense throughout his career.

Castellanos has also developed a knack for dramatic moments in the postseason, including becoming the first player in MLB history to hit multiple home runs in consecutive playoff games during the 2023 NLDS against Atlanta.