The 2025 MLB season has entered its second half, and while veterans continue to shape the playoff picture, the rise of this year’s rookie class has become one of the most compelling storylines. With standout performances, surprising breakouts, and a few franchise-altering first-year players have seized their opportunities, and the attention of fans and analysts.
With the MLB Draft recently completed and prospect lists updated, it’s the perfect time to examine the top rookies making waves across the league.
AL Standouts: A’s Duo Dominates
Jacob Wilson: A Bat-to-Ball Maestro
Oakland’s Jacob Wilson is not just a Rookie of the Year frontrunner—he’s an emerging star. Hitting an eye-popping .332, Wilson leads all rookies in fWAR and continues to redefine consistency at the plate. While his defense at shortstop is suspect, his uncanny ability to avoid strikeouts (only 28 in 87 games) is simply elite.
FanDuel odds have already shifted to reflect his breakout status. Wilson became the first fan‑elected rookie shortstop to start an All‑Star Game, signaling that fans recognize his immediate value. The Athletics’ faith in his bat is paying off in a major way.
Nick Kurtz: Power Surge in Oakland
Right behind Wilson is his teammate Nick Kurtz, who’s launched himself into the ROY discussion with a midseason power explosion. From June 15 to the break, he crushed 12 homers and posted a jaw-dropping 1.122 OPS.
His current line, 17 homers, .558 slugging, and a 143 OPS+ highlight his raw power. Though swing-and-miss issues remain, Kurtz’s thunderous bat has turned him into one of the game’s most feared rookie sluggers. If he and Wilson finish 1-2 in AL ROY voting, they’d be the first AL teammates to do so since 1984.
Boston’s Double-Barreled Rookie Boost
Carlos Narváez: A Steal Behind the Plate
Boston quietly added Carlos Narváez from the Yankees, and that decision is proving to be a shrewd one. FanDuel’s MLB player watch has highlighted his defensive anchor role. With elite pitch framing, he leads all rookies in CS Above Average.
Offensively, he’s hitting .273 with eight home runs and a 118 OPS+. While not flashy, Narváez’s all‑around skill set has stabilized a crucial position for the Red Sox.
Roman Anthony: Living Up to the Hype
Holding steady in the No. 5 rookie spot, Roman Anthony is doing exactly what Boston hoped for, getting on base and hitting the ball hard. With a .371 OBP and a 117 OPS+, Anthony ranks among the most disciplined rookie hitters. The right fielder has shown early signs of developing into a foundational piece for the Sox as they push toward October.
Rising Names from the Bronx and Kansas City
Jasson Domínguez: Quiet Confidence for the Yankees
While he narrowly missed the top five, Jasson Domínguez continues to show why the Yankees are so high on him. His blend of speed, power, and discipline makes him a threat in all facets. With George Lombard Jr. still a prospect and Carlos Narváez gone, Domínguez has a clear opportunity to earn a larger role, especially if the Yankees make roster moves at the deadline.
Noah Cameron: Royals’ Southpaw Surprise
Kansas City’s Noah Cameron received a first-place vote in the latest rookie poll—and for good reason. The lefty has exceeded expectations, combining pitchability with poise. His performance has helped solidify a young Royals rotation, offering hope for a franchise still deep in its rebuild. Cameron’s command and ability to limit damage give him long-term staying power.
National League: Power Arms and Balanced Bats
Jacob Misiorowski: Electric and Unmissable
Jacob Misiorowski has gone from promising arm to Rookie of the Year leader in a matter of weeks. The Brewers’ right-hander boasts a 1.23 ERA (excluding one bad outing), a microscopic 0.68 WHIP, and an eye-popping 39.2% strikeout rate.
His mid-90s fastball explodes late, and his off-speed pitches are already inducing whiffs. After an All-Star nod, he’s firmly on the national radar. Milwaukee’s farm system is deep, and Misiorowski is its brightest new graduate.
Chad Patrick: Unsung Hero in the Brewers’ Rotation
In the shadow of Misiorowski, Chad Patrick is quietly having a stellar campaign. With a 3.52 ERA, 95 strikeouts, and nearly one K per inning, Patrick is an example of efficient execution.
While he won’t light up highlight reels, his consistency is invaluable, especially as the Brewers look to keep pace in a tight divisional race.
Offensive Firepower in Atlanta and Miami
Drake Baldwin: Balanced Behind the Plate
Drake Baldwin led the first two NL rookie polls, and though he dropped to second, he remains highly impactful. Despite a slow June, Baldwin’s bat speed and plate approach continue to shine. Already with 11 home runs, he’s a central piece in Atlanta’s future plans. His offensive rebound in July suggests he could push back to the top spot if he sustains it.
Agustín Ramírez: Big Bat, Bigger Expectations
Acquired in the Jazz Chisholm Jr. trade, Ramírez has become an offensive engine for the Marlins. Though his defense remains a liability, his offensive output (14 homers and 20 doubles) has given Miami a reliable DH presence. If he refines his approach, Ramírez could be more than just a slugger. He’s making the most of his first extended MLB action.
First Glimpses at Future Stars
Several newly drafted players have already jumped into their teams’ top-10 prospect lists. Gavin Fien (Rangers), Steele Hall (Reds), and Aiva Arquette (Marlins) are names to watch over the next year.
While they won’t impact the 2025 big league season, the groundwork is being laid for future Rookie of the Year races. The Mariners’ Kade Anderson and the Cardinals’ Liam Doyle are other potential fast risers.
What’s Next in the Rookie Race?
As trade season looms, contending teams will face tough decisions—hold onto high-upside rookies or package them for stars. Some, like the Dodgers and Mariners, have enough depth to consider moving fringe top-10 names. Others, such as the Royals and A’s, will likely continue stockpiling talent.
Players like Jacob Wilson and Jacob Misiorowski have already established themselves as cornerstones, but the door is wide open for others to make their mark before season’s end.
The second half promises even more shake-ups. A strong July or August could elevate players like Jasson Domínguez or Agustín Ramírez into contention. And if Misiorowski keeps dominating, he might sprint away with the award outright. One thing is certain: the rookies of 2025 aren’t waiting for their opportunity. They’re grabbing it with both hands.
