Welcome to Moneyline's analysis of the MLB, where projections for the 2030 season are underway. This installment focuses on second basemen, a position that often features players who transition from shortstop roles due to rising stars or defensive shifts. Notably, Jackson Holliday serves as an example, being a shortstop prospect before assuming second base duties in the major leagues. Evaluations of future talent took both offensive and defensive abilities into account, resulting in a subjective but insightful exercise on player forecasts for the next five years.

Before examining the list of 30 projected top second basemen for 2030, it is important to acknowledge veterans who may either age out of their prime or change positions entirely prior to the upcoming season. Exclusions based on anticipated age regression include Ozzie Albies (Atlanta Braves, age 33), Jose Altuve (Houston Astros, age 40), Jake Cronenworth (San Diego Padres, age 36), Jose Iglesias (San Diego Padres, age 40), Brandon Lowe (Tampa Bay Rays, age 35), Ketel Marte (Arizona Diamondbacks, age 36), Jeff McNeil (New York Mets, age 38), and Marcus Semien (Texas Rangers, age 39).

30. Termarr Johnson, Pittsburgh Pirates (2030 Age: 26): Drafted as the No. 4 overall pick in 2022, Johnson possesses a remarkable 70-grade hit tool, though he is yet to maximize his potential in the minors at just 20 years old. Last year, he recorded a .237/.366/.386 line with 35 extra-base hits and a 15.6 percent walk rate over 124 games spanning High-A and Double-A.

29. Max Muncy, Las Vegas Athletics (2030 Age: 27): Not to be confused with the established MLB player, this Max Muncy was selected as the No. 25 overall pick in the 2021 draft. After a slow start to his career, he impressed with an .866 OPS and 20 extra-base hits in 50 games at Triple-A last season. Though his major league debut featured struggles, there remains potential for him to develop into an everyday player.

28. Juan Brito, Cleveland Guardians (2030 Age: 28): Acquired in the trade that involved Nolan Jones moving to the Rockies, Brito excelled in 2023, posting a .256/.365/.443 line with 41 doubles, 20 home runs, and 84 RBI in 144 Triple-A games. Following a strong spring training performance, his MLB debut appears imminent.

27. Nico Hoerner, Chicago Cubs (2030 Age: 33): With 22 Defensive Runs Saved since the 2023 season, Hoerner is recognized as one of the elite defensive second basemen. Currently holding a modest 99 OPS+ through 2,407 major league plate appearances, he retains value even if he experiences a decline in speed as he ages. After the 2026 season, he may explore free agency after concluding a three-year, $35 million contract.

26. Thomas Saggese, St. Louis Cardinals (2030 Age: 28): Acquired during the 2023 deadline deal, Saggese is an offensive-minded player who recorded a .253/.313/.438 line with significant pop, including 20 home runs, in 126 Triple-A games. Currently thriving in the minors, he may seek an opportunity in the major leagues this season.

25. James Triantos, Chicago Cubs (2030 Age: 27): Triantos, who has primarily played second base while occasionally taking on center field duties, has seen his batting improve significantly. After a standout performance in the 2023 Arizona Fall League, he posted a .300/.346/.427 line with numerous extra-base hits and 47 stolen bases across Double-A and Triple-A games.

24. Nick Gonzales, Pittsburgh Pirates (2030 Age: 31): Gonzales made a name for himself in college before being selected seventh overall by the Pirates. During his major league stint last year, he produced a .270/.311/.398 line in 387 plate appearances, showing promise as an everyday contributor.

23. Luisangel Acuña, New York Mets (2030 Age: 28): Formerly a high-ranking prospect with the Rangers, Acuña was traded to the Mets as part of a deal involving Max Scherzer in 2023. His performance at the end of last season showcased his potential, and he is part of a crowded second base competition in New York.

22. Luke Keaschall, Minnesota Twins (2030 Age: 27): Demonstrating the Twins' talent for developing utility players, Keaschall had a breakthrough year in 2024 with an impressive offensive output. While primarily filling in at second base, he may continue to find time in various positions as his career progresses.

21. Andrés Giménez, Toronto Blue Jays (2030 Age: 31): A standout defender with significant WAR contributions while in Cleveland, Giménez was traded to the Blue Jays in December and is currently in the third year of a seven-year, $106.5 million contract. His defensive skills can provide value even if his offensive production does not inflate significantly.

20. Demetrio Crisantes, Arizona Diamondbacks (2030 Age: 25): Drafted out of Nogales High School, Crisantes made his name in the minors, showcasing impressive numbers last season. He is considered a potential future replacement for Ketel Marte at second base as he progresses in the organization.

19. Felnin Celesten, Seattle Mariners (2030 Age: 24): With a wealth of middle infield talent surrounding him, the Mariners may see Celesten transition to second base. His strong debut in rookie ball demonstrates offensive capabilities that could make him a valuable asset moving forward.

18. Luis García Jr., Washington Nationals (2030 Age: 30): Since his early debut, García has begun to establish his potential, culminating in a breakout 2024 season. His consistent performance positions him favorably as he approaches his first foray into free agency.

17. Bryson Stott, Philadelphia Phillies (2030 Age: 32): Stott transitioned from shortstop to second base and continued to provide versatility for the Phillies. Despite a subpar season last year, he still presents a balanced skillset that could lead to future success.

16. Sal Stewart, Cincinnati Reds (2030 Age: 26): Regarded as a top-tier prospect, Stewart's strong offensive performance last season solidified his reputation. With dual positional capabilities, he may find himself primarily playing second base as the Reds shuffle their lineup.

15. Hyeseong Kim, Los Angeles Dodgers (2030 Age: 31): Following a career in the KBO, Kim's MLB transition has begun strong, making contributions at key moments this season. His capacity to adapt adds depth to the Dodgers' lineup.

14. Brooks Lee, Minnesota Twins (2030 Age: 29): With experience across multiple infield positions, Lee embodies the Twins' focus on versatility. His minor league production suggests he can replicate that success in the majors as he receives opportunities.

13. Gleyber Torres, Detroit Tigers (2030 Age: 33): Joining the Tigers with the aim of revitalizing his career, Torres has evolved into a reliable second baseman after an impressive early start in New York. His recent performance enhances his stock as he navigates free agency.

12. Gavin Kilen, University of Tennessee (2030 Age: 26): Kilen's collegiate success and his ability to generate offensive numbers make him a strong candidate for the upcoming draft. Currently playing shortstop, there are indications his future may lie at second base.

11. Matt McLain, Cincinnati Reds (2030 Age: 30): After an impactful rookie year, McLain's trajectory was altered by a severe shoulder injury. As he moves through his recovery, expectations remain for him to return to prominence alongside emerging talents.

10. Bo Bichette, Toronto Blue Jays (2030 Age: 32): Bichette's defensive struggles could lead to a positional switch, potentially making second base a viable option later in his career. Recently showing signs of recovery following an injury-plagued season, he aims to maximize his next free agency opportunity.

9. Michael Arroyo, Seattle Mariners (2030 Age: 25): Proving to be a consistent performer across different minor league levels, Arroyo exhibits the skills needed for an impactful future. His combination of hitting and defensive capabilities will be essential as he advances.

8. Jazz Chisholm Jr., New York Yankees (2030 Age: 32): With past 30-30 potential, Chisholm has faced injuries but remains a considerable force when healthy. His early-season contributions with the Yankees signal a shift toward consistency in his future performances.

7. Brice Turang, Milwaukee Brewers (2030 Age: 30): Garnering accolades for defensive excellence, Turang's elite metrics position him favorably. While talks of a positional shift might emerge, maintaining his role at second base allows him to further develop his game.

6. Kevin McGonigle, Detroit Tigers (2030 Age: 25): Rapidly emerging in the minors, McGonigle's hitting prowess and disciplined approach stand out. His trajectory suggests a potential quick rise through the system to contribute positively to the Tigers lineup.

5. Christian Moore, University of Tennessee (2030 Age: 27): After an impressive college career, Moore has carried that momentum into the professional realm. His adaptability in the field may define his early career while he experiences growth at second base.

4. JJ Wetherholt, West Virginia (2030 Age: 27): Despite setbacks from injuries, Wetherholt is a player to watch, positioning himself favorably through his consistent hitting early in his minor league journey.

3. Travis Bazzana, Oregon State (2030 Age: 27): With a remarkable collegiate showing, Bazzana's potential was fully realized in the draft. His elite hitting tool and high performance could see him emerge fast into a star role in MLB.

2. Jackson Holliday, 2030 Age: 28: Despite initial challenges, Holliday has rebounded impressively in his career. Showing marked improvements early in 2023 reinforces his reputation as a leading prospect with potential growth ahead.

1. Kristian Campbell, Boston Red Sox (2030 Age: 26): A notable breakout from his draft class, Campbell has steadily established himself. Recently signed to a long-term contract, he could become a cornerstone of the Red Sox infield, further aligning their competitive future.