Moneyline presents its MLB 30 in '30 series, which forecasts the best players at each position for the 2030 season. The focus now shifts to second basemen, a position that often sees former shortstop prospects transition due to depth or incumbent star players. An example of this trend is Jackson Holliday, a player originally drafted and developed as a shortstop before moving to second base in the majors. The evaluation of players incorporates both offensive and defensive skills, but the predictions are inherently subjective and based on future projections.

Before outlining the top second basemen, it is crucial to acknowledge seasoned professionals anticipated to either age out of their prime or change positions by the 2030 season. The following notable veterans have been excluded from the rankings under the assumption that age-related decline may remove them from the top 30 second basemen: Ozzie Albies (ATL), Jose Altuve (HOU), Jake Cronenworth (SD), Jose Iglesias (SD), Brandon Lowe (TB), Ketel Marte (ARI), Jeff McNeil (NYM), and Marcus Semien (TEX).

Among the players projected to feature prominently over the next five years, Termarr Johnson of the Pittsburgh Pirates appears at number 30. Drafted as the fourth overall pick in 2022, Johnson possesses a highly touted 70-grade hit tool, though he has not yet reached his full potential. Max Muncy from the Las Vegas Athletics follows at 29; after an inconsistent start, he showcased promise with an .866 OPS in Triple-A. Juan Brito of the Cleveland Guardians, meanwhile, makes a strong case for inclusion at 28 after a breakout 2023 in the minors. Nico Hoerner from the Chicago Cubs, ranked 27, has established himself as a top defensive second baseman, while Thomas Saggese of the St. Louis Cardinals, who joined the team in a deal for Jordan Montgomery, holds the 26th spot. Rounding out this initial group, James Triantos from the Cubs has shown offensive promise but lacks a defined defensive role.

Nick Gonzales, now 31, of the Pittsburgh Pirates and Luisangel Acuña from the New York Mets are also highlighted in the rankings. Acuña transitioned from the Texas Rangers to the Mets and proved his worth in the majors with a 168 OPS+ in a brief appearance last year. Other players gaining attention include Luke Keaschall of the Minnesota Twins and Andrés Giménez, traded to the Toronto Blue Jays, who is recognized for both his offensive and defensive contributions. Demetrio Crisantes from the Arizona Diamondbacks and Felnin Celesten of the Seattle Mariners represent rising talents in the second base pool.

With further discussion on second basemen like Luis García Jr. and Bryson Stott, the article delves deeper into the potential of MLB players. The projection extends to emerging stars such as Sal Stewart and Hyeseong Kim, whose performances in the minors suggest a bright future in the league. Players like Brooks Lee and Gleyber Torres also continue to demonstrate the ability to excel at the major league level. Additionally, the analysis includes prospects like Gavin Kilen, Matt McLain, and Jazz Chisholm Jr., drawing attention to their respective trajectories and recent performances.

The rankings ultimately capture a blend of established talent and promising prospects, setting the stage for an engaging future in Major League Baseball. The evolving dynamics of second basemen reflect broader trends in player development and positional adaptability within the league.