Moneyline presents its MLB 30 in '30 series, forecasting the top players at each position for the 2030 season. In this edition, we focus on second basemen. Predicting future stars at this position can be challenging, as it often consists of shortstop prospects who may shift down the defensive spectrum or transition to second base due to the presence of established shortstops. A notable example is Jackson Holliday, who was drafted as a shortstop but has made the move to second base at the major league level.

In making these projections, both offensive and defensive capabilities played a role. However, this evaluation is inherently subjective, as it relies on predicting future performance. Additionally, a nod goes to current second base veterans who are anticipated to age out of their stellar performance or change positions by the time the 2030 season rolls around. These veterans include Ozzie Albies, Jose Altuve, Jake Cronenworth, Jose Iglesias, Brandon Lowe, Ketel Marte, Jeff McNeil, and Marcus Semien.

Kicking off the rankings at number 30 is Termarr Johnson of the Pittsburgh Pirates, who, at 26 years old in 2030, was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2022 draft, showcasing a 70-grade hit tool. Though he struggled to fully capitalize on his potential in the minors, he still has time to develop, having logged a .237/.366/.386 line with 35 extra-base hits and a 15.6 percent walk rate across 124 games in High-A and Double-A last year. Coming in at number 29 is Max Muncy of the Las Vegas Athletics. Selected with the 25th overall pick in the 2021 draft, Muncy saw a turnaround with an .866 OPS in 50 Triple-A games last season, though he was sent back to the minors after an early stint with the big league club.

At number 28, Juan Brito of the Cleveland Guardians made his mark by hitting .256/.365/.443 with 41 doubles and 20 home runs last season, following his acquisition from the Rockies. He showcased his talent in spring training, indicating that a major league debut could be imminent. Nico Hoerner of the Chicago Cubs, ranked 27th, is regarded as one of baseball's top defensive second basemen with impressive metrics, while Thomas Saggese of the St. Louis Cardinals, ranked 26th, is carving his own niche as an offensive-minded player in the minors. James Triantos, also of the Cubs in 25th place, is focusing on his batting abilities as he settles as a second baseman.

Nick Gonzales (Pittsburgh Pirates, rank 24), Luisangel Acuña (New York Mets, rank 23), and Luke Keaschall (Minnesota Twins, rank 22) continue the rankings with their own unique backgrounds and potential. Andrés Giménez of the Toronto Blue Jays holds the 21st position after a strong showing in Cleveland, promising to maintain his defensive prowess with a solid offensive approach as he ages.

Demetrio Crisantes of the Arizona Diamondbacks, ranked 20th, has made headlines with his strong performance, indicating he could soon fill a significant role at second base. Meanwhile, Felnin Celesten (Seattle Mariners, rank 19) shows promise with his offensive abilities and could shift positions depending on the team's future needs. Luis García Jr. of the Washington Nationals, ranked 18th, has undergone a career revival, while Bryson Stott of the Philadelphia Phillies (rank 17) is adapting to new challenges after the team's adjustments in the infield.

Sal Stewart of the Cincinnati Reds, in 16th place, continues to impress with his hitting despite injury setbacks, while Hyeseong Kim of the Los Angeles Dodgers (rank 15) demonstrates a strong batting performance following a transition from the KBO. Brooks Lee of the Minnesota Twins (rank 14) brings versatility to the table, allowing his team to benefit from his adaptability across the infield. Gleyber Torres of the Detroit Tigers (rank 13) has established himself as a reliable second baseman after a standout rookie season with the Yankees.

Projected for the 2025 draft, Gavin Kilen from the University of Tennessee (rank 12) is making waves as a top collegiate player, indicative of his ability to transition smoothly to professional baseball. Matt McLain of the Cincinnati Reds (rank 11) aims to rebound from injuries and prove he can be a cornerstone player moving forward.

Bo Bichette (Toronto Blue Jays, rank 10) may transition to second base in the latter part of his career after a challenging injury-plagued season. The Seattle Mariners have found an exciting talent in Michael Arroyo (rank 9), who has displayed impressive offensive numbers across the minors. Jazz Chisholm Jr. of the New York Yankees (rank 8) offers a blend of speed and power when healthy, coming off a contributing season that reaffirms his potential.

Brice Turang of the Milwaukee Brewers, at rank 7, earned accolades for his defensive capabilities and could be poised for a positional shift depending on team needs. Kevin McGonigle of the Detroit Tigers, ranked 6th, is quickly establishing himself as a leading hitter in the minors, while Christian Moore may soon find his way into the major leagues after an impressive college career. JJ Wetherholt (rank 5) is viewed as a top prospect in the 2024 draft, with his overall skill set suggesting a bright future in the MLB.

Travis Bazzana (rank 4) has quickly risen through the ranks, showcasing a top-tier hitter's profile that earned him the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 draft. Jackson Holliday (rank 3) is currently experiencing a turning point in his career, bringing essential hitting skills after a challenging entry into the majors. Lastly, Kristian Campbell, the potential franchise cornerstone for the Boston Red Sox, has made headlines for his impressive performance leading to an eight-year extension, positioning him as a player to watch closely. Campbell's blend of hitting prowess and defensive aptitude at second base may help solidify the future infield lineup for the Red Sox.