As part of Moneyline's ongoing series projecting the top players for the 2030 MLB season, this entry focuses on second basemen. Forecasting who will excel at this position in the future can be challenging, especially since many talented shortstop prospects often transition to second base as they climb up the ranks or move positions due to an incumbent star. Jackson Holliday exemplifies this trend, having been drafted and developed as a shortstop before making the shift to second base at the major league level.

When evaluating the future landscape of second basemen, both offensive and defensive capabilities are crucial factors, although the process ultimately involves a considerable degree of subjectivity based on player's projected growth and career trajectory. Prior to revealing the top 30 second basemen, it's worth noting some current stars who are anticipated to see a decline in performance or may even transition to different positions by the time the 2030 season arrives.

The following seasoned players have been omitted from the analysis, as age-related regression is likely to remove them from the Top 30 rankings: Ozzie Albies (ATL, age 33), Jose Altuve (HOU, age 40), Jake Cronenworth (SD, age 36), Jose Iglesias (SD, age 40), Brandon Lowe (TB, age 35), Ketel Marte (ARI, age 36), Jeff McNeil (NYM, age 38), and Marcus Semien (TEX, age 39). Now, let's delve into the ranked second basemen for the 2030 season.

30. Termarr Johnson, Pittsburgh Pirates (Age: 26) - Drafted as the No. 4 overall pick in 2022, Johnson initially showcased a 70-grade hit tool, now currently trying to fulfill his potential. Last season, he recorded a batting line of .237/.366/.386 in the minors, accumulating 35 extra-base hits across 124 games played.

29. Max Muncy, Las Vegas Athletics (Age: 27) - Not to be confused with another Max Muncy, this player was selected 25th overall in the 2021 draft. He had a solid year at Triple-A with an .866 OPS and is vying for a spot on the 2025 Opening Day roster after a brief stint in the majors.

28. Juan Brito, Cleveland Guardians (Age: 28) - Acquired from the Rockies in a trade involving Nolan Jones, Brito had a breakout year in 2023 and is expected to debut soon after a strong start to the current minor league season.

27. Nico Hoerner, Chicago Cubs (Age: 33) - Renowned for his elite defense, Hoerner has amassed 22 Defensive Runs Saved since 2023. While a decline may impact his value, he can still serve as an everyday player in the upcoming years.

26. Thomas Saggese, St. Louis Cardinals (Age: 28) - Acquired in the trade of Jordan Montgomery, Saggese's offensive skills shone in the minors, though his path to consistent at-bats remains unclear as he develops in the minors.

25. James Triantos, Chicago Cubs (Age: 27) - A bat-first prospect, Triantos is adjusting well to second base while still maintaining dual eligibility with some experience in center field. He stands out due to his speed and offensive potential seen in the minors.

24. Nick Gonzales, Pittsburgh Pirates (Age: 31) - Known for an impressive collegiate season in 2020, Gonzales had a modest debut last year and is looking to build upon his major league experience.

23. Luisangel Acuña, New York Mets (Age: 28) - Originally a top prospect with the Rangers, Acuña's impressive early performance with the Mets puts him in the mix for a key role in the team's infield.

22. Luke Keaschall, Minnesota Twins (Age: 27) - Development of utility players has been a strength for the Twins, and Keaschall's offensive production continues to keep him in the conversation for second base.

21. Andrés Giménez, Toronto Blue Jays (Age: 31) - Known for his defensive prowess, Giménez's strong performances in Cleveland have secured him a place among the top second basemen as he embarks on a promising career in Toronto.

20. Demetrio Crisantes, Arizona Diamondbacks (Age: 25) - Drafted in 2022, Crisantes has emerged as a top prospect with exciting potential, possibly taking over second base duties in the future.

19. Felnin Celesten, Seattle Mariners (Age: 24) - With a rising talent pool, Celesten is catching the attention of the Mariners' management, especially as he excels in the minors.

18. Luis García Jr., Washington Nationals (Age: 30) - Following a breakout year, García's production has positioned him well as he heads towards free agency, having displayed consistent contributions in batting.

17. Bryson Stott, Philadelphia Phillies (Age: 32) - Making a significant impact since his debut, Stott is transitioning positions and providing solid value through his mix of speed and defensive skills.

16. Sal Stewart, Cincinnati Reds (Age: 26) - Having shown promise in the minors, Stewart's versatility may prove vital as he continues to develop.

15. Hyeseong Kim, Los Angeles Dodgers (Age: 31) - After establishing himself in the KBO, Kim's contributions in LA have begun to highlight his potential within the majors.

14. Brooks Lee, Minnesota Twins (Age: 29) - A versatile player, Lee has stayed productive across various infield positions while looking to carve out a stable role.

13. Gleyber Torres, Detroit Tigers (Age: 33) - After a strong start to his career, Torres has established himself as an everyday second baseman.

12. Gavin Kilen, University of Tennessee (2025 Draft) - Kilen's impressive performance at the college level makes him a high draft candidate.

11. Matt McLain, Cincinnati Reds (Age: 30) - After making a name for himself as a rookie, McLain's potential recovery from injury will be closely monitored as he develops further.

10. Bo Bichette, Toronto Blue Jays (Age: 32) - While under scrutiny for his defensive metrics, Bichette remains a promising asset for teams looking to secure his services during free agency.

9. Michael Arroyo, Seattle Mariners (Age: 25) - Displaying offensive versatility, Arroyo's performance in the minors has marked him as a strong candidate for the future.

8. Jazz Chisholm Jr., New York Yankees (Age: 32) - Following some health setbacks, Chisholm's potential offers exciting opportunities for the Yankees moving forward.

7. Brice Turang, Milwaukee Brewers (Age: 30) - An exemplary defensive player, Turang continues to build his presence within the Brewers' roster.

6. Kevin McGonigle, Detroit Tigers (Age: 25) - Quickly rising in the minors, McGonigle's pure hitting skills signify a bright future for him within the Tigers organization.

5. Christian Moore, University of Tennessee (2025 Draft) - Moore's college achievements place him in contention for early selection in the upcoming draft.

4. JJ Wetherholt, West Virginia (2024 Draft) - Despite injury setbacks, Wetherholt's profile remains strong, positioning him for success in the draft.

3. Travis Bazzana, Oregon State (2024 Draft) - Bazzana's standout college season solidifies his stature as a top prospect as he approaches the draft.

2. Jackson Holliday, Baltimore Orioles (Age: 28) - Holliday's story exemplifies the nonlinear path of player development, with early struggles in the majors giving way to potential resurgence.

1. Kristian Campbell, Boston Red Sox (Age: 22) - After a stunning breakout, Campbell's capabilities and early successes suggest a bright trajectory, capped with a long-term deal potentially securing his future with the Red Sox.