Rising Stars: MLB Prospects Poised for Breakout Seasons in 2025

As the 2025 MLB season kicks off, fantasy baseball managers and scouts alike are keeping a close eye on the next wave of talent ready to make an impact. Leading the charge is Boston Red Sox OF Roman Anthony, a 20-year-old phenom who has already showcased his elite potential at Triple-A Worcester.

Roman Anthony: The Crown Jewel of Prospects

• Age: 20 (turns 21 in May)
• Triple-A Stats (2024): .344 AVG, .982 OPS, 35 games
• 2025 Outlook: Began the season with a bang—launching two homers and scoring four runs in his second game. With his advanced plate discipline and power, Anthony is expected to debut in Boston sooner than later.

Other Must-Watch Prospects

1. Jac Caglianone (1B, Kansas City Royals)

• Strengths: Raw power, elite bat speed
• 2025 Projection: Likely to earn a DH role if the Royals’ offense struggles. Expect high strikeouts but 20+ HR potential in limited at-bats.

2. Jordan Lawlar (SS/3B, Arizona Diamondbacks)

• 2025 Role: Competes with Geraldo Perdomo for playing time.
• Fantasy Impact: A stolen-base threat with strong contact skills. Could bat near the bottom of the order initially.

3. Coby Mayo (3B, Baltimore Orioles)

• 2024 Struggles: Hit just .098 in MLB debut but dominated Triple-A (.562 SLG).
• 2025 Breakout Candidate: No long-term blockers in Baltimore—20+ HRs possible with regular playing time.

4. Marcelo Mayer (SS, Boston Red Sox)

• Path to MLB: Trevor Story’s injury history could open the door.
• Sleeper Pick: Solid glove with gap power—a high-floor infield option.

5. Sam Basallo (C/1B, Baltimore Orioles)

• Unique Skill Set: Power-hitting catcher with 10+ HR upside.
• Obstacle: Blocked by Adley Rutschman but could transition to 1B/DH.

Under-the-Radar Names

• Caleb Durbin (2B/3B, Brewers): Stolen-base machine with sneaky power.
• Walker Jenkins (OF, Twins): Elite dynasty stash for 2026.
• Nick Kurtz (1B, Athletics): High-OBP slugger in a weak lineup.

Fantasy Advice

• Stash Anthony in all leagues—his call-up could be imminent.
• Monitor Caglianone and Mayo for midseason power surges.
• Lawlar and Durbin are ideal for SB-needy teams.

"Prospect hype doesn’t always translate, but this year’s crop offers rare upside." — Eric Karabell, ESPN Fantasy Analyst