Shortstops are often seen as the backbone of a baseball team’s defense, and as we look ahead to the 2025 MLB season, the spotlight is on the players who have demonstrated exceptional skill and potential.
This article ranks the top 15 shortstops to watch, delving into their performances from the 2024 season and their outlook for the coming year. From rising stars to seasoned veterans, these athletes are set to leave a significant impact on their teams and the league.
15. Jeremy Peña, Houston Astros
Jeremy Peña, the Astros’ starting shortstop, had a remarkable rookie season in 2022, winning a Gold Glove and World Series MVP. However, his recent seasons have been less spectacular. In 2024, he hit .266 with 15 home runs, leaving room for improvement in 2025.
14. Dansby Swanson, Chicago Cubs
Dansby Swanson provides stability at shortstop for the Cubs, despite recent injuries. He finished 2024 with a .242 batting average and 16 home runs, though his elite defense remains a highlight. Swanson’s health will be crucial for the Cubs’ success in 2025.
13. Ezequiel Tovar, Colorado Rockies
Ezequiel Tovar excelled in 2024, leading the Rockies in home runs and doubles while earning a Gold Glove as the youngest NL shortstop to do so. His stellar defense and emerging power make him a key player for Colorado, despite struggles with plate discipline.
12. Bo Bichette, Toronto Blue Jays
Bo Bichette is poised for a comeback after a challenging 2024 season. He enters spring training fully recovered from a finger injury and is crucial for the Blue Jays’ success in 2025. Bichette’s career averages include a .290 batting average and 93 home runs.
11. Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates
Oneil Cruz, now transitioning to center field, boasts impressive stats with a .259 AVG and 21 HRs in 2024. His speed and power make him a highlight reel, though he’s no longer a shortstop due to the Pirates’ acquisition of Isiah Kiner-Falefa.
10. Anthony Volpe, New York Yankees
Anthony Volpe, a promising shortstop for the Yankees, has shown impressive defensive skills, winning a Gold Glove in his rookie year. Despite his power numbers dropping in 2024, he excelled in the postseason with a notable grand slam. Volpe is still evolving at just 23 years old.
9. Willy Adames, San Francisco Giants
Willy Adames joins the San Francisco Giants after signing a seven-year, $182 million contract. He brings significant power and defensive prowess, having hit 32 home runs with 112 RBIs in 2024. Adames is set to form a strong infield duo with Matt Chapman.
8. Corey Seager, Texas Rangers
Corey Seager, a key player for the Texas Rangers, is poised for a strong 2025 season after recovering from surgery. In 2024, he hit 30 home runs and had an .864 OPS across 123 games. His health will be crucial for the Rangers’ success in the AL West.
7. CJ Abrams, Washington Nationals
CJ Abrams is a promising shortstop for the Washington Nationals, known for his All-Star performance in 2024. Despite a mid-season slump, Abrams remains a key player in the Nationals’ rebuild. He is focused on improving after a surprise demotion to Triple-A in September 2024.
6. Trea Turner, Philadelphia Phillies
Trea Turner is a key figure for the Philadelphia Phillies, known for his speed and power. In 2024, he hit .295 with 21 home runs, though he aims to improve his batting average and reduce strikeouts in 2025. Turner may return to the leadoff role to boost his performance.
5. Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers
Mookie Betts is returning to shortstop for the Dodgers in 2025 after a challenging stint in 2024. Despite initial struggles, Betts has shown significant improvement with offseason training, aiming to become an elite defender at the position.
4. Francisco Lindor, New York Mets
Francisco Lindor is a standout shortstop for the New York Mets, known for his exceptional performance. In 2024, he finished as a runner-up for the NL MVP and played a crucial role in the postseason despite a back injury. Lindor is a leader on the team and could potentially be named captain in 2025.
3. Elly De La Cruz, Cincinnati Reds
Elly De La Cruz is a rising star, known for his speed and power. In 2024, he led the MLB with 67 stolen bases and hit 25 home runs, earning an All-Star selection. Despite leading in strikeouts, his impressive performance makes him a key player for the Reds.
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2. Gunnar Henderson, Baltimore Orioles
Gunnar Henderson is a rising star, projected to maintain his MVP candidate status in 2025. He had a stellar 2024 season with a .281 batting average, 37 home runs, and 92 RBIs. His 2025 projections include 35 HRs and 93 RBIs, solidifying him as a top fantasy pick.
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1. Bobby Witt Jr., Kansas City Royals
Bobby Witt Jr. is a standout shortstop for the Kansas City Royals, known for his impressive skills. In 2024, he won the AL Batting Title with a .332 average and achieved 211 hits, 45 doubles, and 32 home runs. He is a strong contender for future MVP awards.
