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Every year, a talented crop of rookie hitters immediately impacts the Fantasy Baseball landscape. Then, the following season, their ADPs skyrocket. 2024 was certainly no exception. Budding stars like Jackson Merrill, Jackson Chourio, and Junior Caminero hit the ground running, providing fantasy managers with tons of value. As a result, their respective draft values are bound to increase tremendously in 2025 (ESPN's early rankings have Merrill's ADP at #27, Chourio at #28, and Caminero at #58).
As we prepare for next season, wouldn't it be nice to know which hitting prospects will give your team(s) the most value? Wouldn't a list of rookies to target in the later rounds be such an advantage? Fortunately, you've come to the right place. Listed below are the top hitting prospects to target in fantasy baseball, heading into 2025.
To qualify for this list, a player's rookie eligibility must still be intact. Players who have made their MLB debut may still be eligible, so long as they haven't graduated from "prospect" status. Without further ado, let's get into it.
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Dylan Crews, OF, Washington Nationals
MLB.com Scouting Grades: Hit: 60 | Power: 60 | Run: 60
2024 MLB Stats (132 PA): .218/.288/.353 (80 wRC+), 5 2B, 3 HR, 12 SB, 11:26 BB/SO
2025 Steamer Projections (581 PA): .245/.305/.400 (97 wRC+), 26 2B, 16 HR, 24 SB, 40:128 BB/SO
We got a sneak peek of Dylan Crews at the end of 2024. And while his subpar slash line may seem like a deterrent for would-be drafters, it's important to remember that 132 plate appearances is a rather unreliable sample size, especially for someone who's earned the benefit of the doubt, which Crews has done based on his track record and prospect pedigree. He was consistently productive in 100 games between Double-A Harrisburg and Triple-A Rochester this year (.270/.342/.451, 60 R, 21 2B, 13 HR, 68 RBI, 25 SB, 36:92 BB/SO).
Looking ahead to 2025, Crews may not blossom into an offensive juggernaut right away. Like many up-and-coming hitters, his unrefined approach often leads to many strikeouts. Despite that, his incredible speed will likely still make up a worthwhile player. Crews stole 12 bases in just 31 games with the Nationals, a 60-steal pace over a full season. Though he probably won't reach 60 steals in 2025, he could easily surpass Steamer's projected total of 24.
Even if he's a league-average hitter, Crews would be an outstanding fantasy option. Based on his Steamer projections, that's exactly what he'll be. Keep in mind, however, that most projection systems (including Steamer) are admittedly conservative. Thus, it's certainly possible for Crews to exceed expectations in 2025. If he does, he'd undoubtedly be among Fantasy Baseball's most valuable outfielders. Overall, a 20/30 season is in the realm of possibility.
Dylan Crews has his second home run!
5 hits at the big league level with 4 going for extra-bases! pic.twitter.com/6nm2kJ9L5q
— MLB (@MLB) August 30, 2024
Jasson Dominguez, OF, New York Yankees
MLB.com Scouting Grades: Hit: 50 | Power: 60 | Run: 55
MLB Career Stats (100 PA): .207/.310/.437 (109 wRC+), 2 2B, 6 HR, 6 SB, 13:27 BB/SO
2025 Steamer Projections (507 PA): .249/.326/.417 (112 wRC+), 22 2B, 20 HR, 20 SB, 56:139 BB/SO
New York's prized switch-hitting prospect should finally see consistent playing time at the big-league level in 2025. After battling injuries for most of the 2024 season, Jasson Dominguez only played in 58 minor-league games. However, his performance in 44 games with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre is a clear indication that he's ready to play in the Bronx (.309/.368/.480, 33 R, 7 2B, 7 HR, 25 RBI, 15 SB, 16:36 BB/SO).
It seems like Dominguez has been in the spotlight forever, despite the fact that he'll have just turned 22 years old at the start of Spring Training. Dominguez possesses an impressive mix of raw power and pure speed, the kind of skills that normally generate lots of fantasy value. With a lineup as potent as the Yankees', there should also be plenty of opportunities for him to collect runs and RBI.
Overall, if Dominguez meets expectations in 2025, it's hard to imagine anyone else winning A.L. Rookie of the Year. While his Steamer projections are quite favorable, The Martian's ceiling is absolutely higher. Of all the prospects slotted for full-time roles in the majors, Dominguez is unquestionably the most intriguing.
Jasson Dominguez is expected "to be a big part of what we do this coming year," Aaron Boone said.
— Bryan Hoch ⚾️ (@BryanHoch) November 11, 2024
Coby Mayo, 1B/3B, Baltimore Orioles
MLB.com Scouting Grades: Hit: 45 | Power: 65 | Run: 40
2024 AAA Stats (390 PA): .287/.364/.562 (135 wRC+), 23 2B, 22 HR, 67 RBI, 40:97 BB/SO
2025 Steamer Projections (65 PA): .230/.307/.403 (104 wRC+), 3 2B, 2 HR, 1 SB, 6:18 BB/SO
Coby Mayo was one of the minor league's most electric sluggers in 2024, despite struggling in 46 plate appearances with the O's. Again, it's counterproductive to judge a player based on such a small sample size, especially when they've got stellar upside. If given consistent playing time in Baltimore, Mayo would almost certainly be the odds-on favorite to lead all big-league rookies in home runs.
Playing time could be an issue for Mayo, however, with Jordan Westburg taking the lion's share of reps at third base. Luckily, there is somewhat of an opening at first base/designated hitter. Considering how Ryan O'Hearn is generally relegated to a platoon role, along with the fact that Ryan Mountcastle is in Baltimore, it might seem like Mayo will be forced to ride the bench or start in Triple-A. However, it's hard to imagine the Orioles leaving such an impressive slugger out of their lineup. He may not crack the Opening Day lineup, but it shouldn't be long before Mayo is an everyday player.
Steamer projects that Mayo will only get 65 plate appearances with the Orioles in 2025; you should expect many more. If and when he gets consistent at-bats, you should also expect a lot of slugging and run production. If there's any hitter who can challenge Jasson Dominguez for A.L. Rookie of the Year, it's Mayo.
Orioles Rookie of the Year finalists:
2022: Adley Rutschman
2023: Gunnar Henderson
2024: Colton Cowser
2025: ???Can Coby Mayo (or someone else) make it four in a row next season?
— Jacob Calvin Meyer (@jcalvinmeyer) November 11, 2024
Colby Thomas, OF, Athletics
MLB.com Scouting Grades: Hit: 45 | Power: 55 | Run: 55
2024 AA-AAA Stats (575 PA): .277/.342/.563, 44 2B, 31 HR, 92 RBI, 40:142 BB/SO
2025 Steamer Projections (85 PA): .232/.282/.402 (96 wRC+), 4 2B, 3 HR, 1 SB, 5:25 BB/SO
Am I biased by the fact that Colby Thomas played at Mercer University? Maybe. Has he earned a spot on this list, based on his minor-league numbers? Absolutely (Go Bears).
Over the last two seasons, Thomas has been one of the most impressive outfielders in Minor League Baseball. In 2024, he was especially good in 73 games with Triple-A Las Vegas (.277/.344/.559, 25 2B, 17 HR, 45 RBI, 23:95). Looking ahead to 2025, there shouldn't be much standing between him and consistent playing time. As of now, the A's are planning to start Seth Brown in left field. Given Thomas's eye-popping numbers, he should get an opportunity to earn that spot pretty soon.
A high strikeout rate may hinder Thomas's on-base percentage, but his power-speed mix should still make him a productive fantasy asset. With the A's trying to establish a new identity, Thomas could be one of the newest franchise faces in Sacramento.
Colby Thomas draws a bases-loaded walk!
T9 | 🇻🇪 5, 🇺🇸 3 pic.twitter.com/746nsQ3BJw
— USA Baseball (@USABaseball) November 12, 2024
Jordan Lawlar, SS, Arizona Diamondbacks
MLB.com Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 55 | Run: 70
2024 AAA Stats (58 PA): .318/.418/.482, 3 2B, 2 HR, 12 RBI, 7:17 BB/SO
2025 Steamer Projections (212 PA): .245/.317/.385 (96 wRC+), 9 2B, 5 HR, 6 SB, 18:52 BB/SO
Jordan Lawlar missed the bulk of the 2024 season with injuries, playing just 23 games at the minor-league level. Fortunately, he appears healthy and ready for Spring Training. This offseason, he's been getting extra reps in the Dominican Winter League, so there shouldn't be any issues with lingering injuries.
Ranked #9 on MLB's list of top prospects, Lawlar is an exceptionally gifted athlete. Scouting reports praise his raw ability, considering him an above-average player in all three offensive categories. Most of the prospects on this list are expected to steal bases. None, however, are as fast as Lawlar, who has swiped an impressive 82 bags in just 230 minor-league games.
When it comes to consistent playing time, Lawlar will likely have to compete with Geraldo Perdomo to start the season. Given his immense talent, Lawlar should ultimately be the D-Backs' everyday shortstop relatively early on. When that happens, you'll want him on your fantasy team. As for his Steamer projections, he should easily surpass those expectations. Lawlar is certainly capable of competing with Dylan Crews for N.L. Rookie of the Year.
He's back 😈
Jordan Lawlar launches his first home run of the season pic.twitter.com/9RMhNW0w1I
— Reno Aces (@Aces) June 12, 2024
Roman Anthony, OF, Boston Red Sox
MLB.com Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 60 | Run: 50
2024 AA-AAA Stats (540 PA): .291/.396/.498, 32 2B, 18 HR, 21 SB, 79:127 BB/SO
2025 Steamer Projections (230 PA): .243/.331/.391 (101 wRC+), 12 2B, 5 HR, 5 SB, 25:61 BB/SO
Roman Anthony had an incredible 2024 season. At just 20 years old, it could be enough to earn him a spot in Boston's lineup in 2025. If it does, Anthony could be one of the best rookies in baseball. Since being drafted in 2022, he has shown consistently remarkable plate discipline at every level. Combine that with a solid amount of speed, and you get a dependable fantasy player.
In order to help your fantasy team, Anthony will need to break into a crowded Red Sox outfield (obviously). It likely won't happen before Opening Day, but Steamer believes that he'll earn a starting role at some point this year. Overall, expect Anthony to start in Triple-A Worcester, but be ready for his seemingly inevitable big-league promotion.
Roman Anthony reached base in every one of his 5 plate appearances last night. 🔥
He walked 4 times and ripped a 99.9 mph double. pic.twitter.com/wqUZYuUvqN
— Red Sox Player Development (@RedSoxPlayerDev) September 21, 2024
Chase DeLauter, OF, Cleveland Guardians
MLB.com Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 60 | Run: 55
2024 Rk, AA, AAA Stats (164 PA): .261/.342/.500, 10 2B, 8 HR, 19:22 BB/SO
2025 Steamer Projections (92 PA): .263/.324/.429 (115 wRC+), 5 2B, 3 HR, 7:17 BB/SO
Heading into the 2024 season, Chase DeLauter was one of the most exciting prospects following an incredible performance in Spring Training. Then, injuries prevented him from making his MLB debut. Fortunately, DeLauter should take the field for Cleveland next season. Other than Steven Kwan, their outfield spots could be up for grabs.
If DeLauter can impress early again, he's got a real shot of cracking the big-league roster. He's got a world of potential to go along with his potent plate approach. Be sure to monitor him in Spring Training. When he (hopefully) joins the Guardians in 2025, he could be a real difference-maker.
Note: DeLauter has been great through 53 plate appearances in the Arizona Fall League, which can only boost his likelihood of big-league playing time in 2025 (.310/.453/.452, 9 R, 3 2B, HR, 9 RBI, 2 SB, 11:6 BB/SO).
Chase DeLauter (@Guardians No. 2/MLB No.41) caps an impressive Fall League campaign with a three-hit, two-RBI outing 🔥 pic.twitter.com/LUf9vknaR9
— MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) November 15, 2024
Honorable Mentions
Matt Shaw, 2B/SS, Chicago Cubs
MLB.com Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 55 | Run: 55
2024 AA-AAA Stats (523 PA): .284/.379/.488, 19 2B, 21 HR, 31 SB, 62:95 BB/SO
2025 Steamer Projections (72 PA): .248/.316/.405 (104 wRC+), 3 2B, 2 HR, 2 SB, 6:16 BB/SO
If Matt Shaw can fight his way into a starting role in 2025, he would definitely be a player to consider adding. That's the problem, though. With Dansby Swanson and Nico Hoerner clogging the Cubs' middle infield, regular big-league playing time will probably be hard to come by for Shaw. Nonetheless, keep an eye on him. If he gets a chance at everyday at-bats, he could be a serious fantasy asset.
The bases were full for Matt Shaw.
Of course, he brought ‘em all home.
11-1 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/muEHmgKFEz
— USA Baseball (@USABaseball) November 15, 2024
Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF, Minnesota Twins
MLB.com Scouting Grades: Hit: 50 | Power: 60 | Run: 55
2024 AA Stats (167 PA): .298/.479/.621, 12 2B, 8 HR, 9 SB, 42:466 BB/SO
2025 Steamer Projections (28 PA): .211/.334/.365 (104 wRC+), 2B, HR, SB, 4:9 BB/SO
Steamer only projects EmManuel Rodriguez to get a cup of coffee in the big leagues next year. Otherwise, he'd have likely cracked the list, rather than being an honorable mention. If that's the case, he'll almost certainly be one of the most intriguing prospects heading into the 2026 season. Simply put, Rodriguez has it all. At just 21 years old, he's demonstrated remarkable plate discipline, solid speed, and major pop. As for the Twins' outfield, openings may appear throughout 2025. If they promote Rodriguez in order to fill that hole, definitely take a chance on him.
Emmanuel Rodriguez with an inside-the-park GRAND SLAM for his first Triple-A HR⚡️#MNTwins pic.twitter.com/UBhAGY7z5A
— Twins Player Development (@TwinsPlayerDev) September 8, 2024
Kyle Teel, C, Boston Red Sox
MLB.com Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 50 | Run: 45
2024 AA-AAA Stats (505 PA): .288/.386/.433, 23 2B, 13 HR, 68:116 BB/SO
2025 Steamer Projections (238 PA): .241/.321/.362 (92 wRC+), 11 2B, 5 HR, 3 SB, 23:60 BB/SO
Kyle Teel has what it takes to rank among the best offensive catchers in baseball, though he likely won't reach his full potential in 2025. He's only played 138 games in the minors and probably won't make Boston's Opening Day lineup. Regardless, he's an intriguing option if he does make his MLB debut next season. Teel has an impeccable batter's eye, drawing 89 walks over 619 professional plate appearances. He may not hit many homers, but he should be a reliable source of doubles. If you don't land one of the top catchers during the draft, keep an eye on Teel.
KYLE TEEL WON’T STOP!
ANOTHER HOMER IN THE 9TH! THIS TIME A GO-AHEAD GRAND SLAM!
Someone is ready for Worcester…
— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) June 2, 2024
Jacob Wilson, SS, Athletics
MLB.com Scouting Grades: Hit: 70 | Power: 45 | Run: 50
2024 MLB Stats (103 PA): .250/.314/.315, 2 2B, 2 3B, 8:10 BB/SO
2025 Steamer Projections (490 PA): .284/.333/.410 (116 wRC+), 28 2B, 8 HR, 3 SB, 30:53 BB/SO
Wilson may not have league-winning upside, but he has the tools of a reliable contact hitter. If your league values hits and/or batting average, he's worth a flyer in the later rounds. Wilson has drawn comparisons to contact wizard Luis Arraez. And while he may not have the same bat-to-ball skills quite yet, Wilson could certainly surpass Arraez in slugging. Not to say you should rely on him for power production, but his ceiling could be somewhere around 12-15 homers in 2025.
Some absurd Jacob Wilson stats.
1. He has swung at 234 pitches in the zone this season, making contact with 223 of them.
2. He has more games with 4 hits (7) than 0 hits (4)
3. He has more games with 4+ RBI (3) than 2 strikeouts (2)
4. He is hitting over .400 vs. all pitch types pic.twitter.com/ZWCSgtF0BO— Aram Leighton (@AramLeighton8) July 12, 2024
Unlike to Debut in 2025, but Worth Consideration
- Samuel Basallo, C/1B, BAL
- Marcelo Mayer, SS, BOS
- Moises Ballesteros, C/1B, CHC
- Harry Ford, C, SEA
- Termarr Johnson, 2B, PIT
- Walker Jenkins, OF, MIN
- Max Clark, OF, DET
- Kristian Campbell, 2B/SS/OF, BOS
- Jac Caglianone, 1B, KC
- Charlie Condon, OF/3B, COL
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