Projecting the Best 30 MLB Players for the 2030 Season

The Moneyline MLB series, "30 in '30," forecasts the top players at each position for the 2030 season. This comprehensive analysis concludes with a ranking of the 30 best players across all positions, reflecting projections based on current performance and potential developments over the next five years.
The predictions were developed through a detailed ranking system that included categories such as catchers, first basemen, second basemen, third basemen, shortstops, outfielders, and pitchers. While outcomes can alter significantly over time, this list provides a forward-looking perspective on the future of baseball, with reviews anticipated in the upcoming years to assess the accuracy of these projections. For those wishing to explore the rankings specific to each position, links to articles discussing catchers, first basemen, second basemen, third basemen, shortstops, outfielders, and pitchers are available.
Beginning with the rankings, at number 30 is second baseman Travis Bazzana of the Cleveland Guardians, who established himself as a top prospect by leading the 2024 draft with a remarkable collegiate season at Oregon State. Following him at number 29 is Munetaka Murakami, a first baseman from the Yakult Swallows of Japan, set to make an impact in Major League Baseball after impressive home run figures in Japan. Next, right-handed pitcher Jackson Jobe from the Detroit Tigers, only 27 years old in 2030, has the potential to emerge as a front-line starter after a careful development journey. At number 27, the second baseman Jackson Holliday from the Baltimore Orioles shows promise, having made strides following his debut last season. Kristian Campbell, another second baseman from the Boston Red Sox, rounds out the list at position 26 after significantly elevating his profile in minor league play.
Continuing with the rankings, number 25 is third baseman Sebastian Walcott from the Texas Rangers, who is expected to thrive offensively as he matures physically. Austin Riley, third baseman for the Atlanta Braves, appears at number 24 as a well-rounded player with past solid performances despite injury setbacks. Chase Burns of the Cincinnati Reds, ranked 23rd, possesses a fastball that could dominate at the Major League level. In the 22nd slot is Jac Caglianone of the Kansas City Royals, who has turned heads with both his batting and pitching in college before fully committing to hitting. Yoshinobu Yamamoto from the Los Angeles Dodgers, an accomplished pitcher in Japan, is at number 21 as he continues to adjust to MLB competition.
Moving further up, number 20 is Tyler Soderstrom of the Las Vegas Athletics, who has swiftly established himself as a crucial contributor to his team’s lineup. Marcelo Mayer, another third baseman from the Boston Red Sox, finds himself at number 19, likely transitioning to the hot corner to maximize his skill set. Hunter Greene, at 30 years old, is ranked 18th and has developed into a reliable rotation member for the Cincinnati Reds. Corbin Carroll, from the Arizona Diamondbacks, is noted for his blend of speed and power, placing him at number 17, while Kyle Tucker, a standout member of the Chicago Cubs, occupies the 16th position.
At number 15, Bryce Eldridge from the San Francisco Giants leads as a powerful hitting prospect with impactful minor league performances. Following him is Roman Anthony of the Boston Red Sox, recognized as a top-level prospect yet to make his Major League debut, ranked 14th on the list. Wyatt Langford from the Texas Rangers ranks 13th, showcasing extensive talent since his draft. Fernando Tatis Jr. of the San Diego Padres comes in at number 12, regarded for both offensive prowess and defensive versatility despite recent career challenges.
Ranked 11th is Juan Soto from the New York Mets, who continues to adapt to his new surroundings while upholding an impressive offensive legacy. Tarik Skubal, recognized as currently the best pitcher in baseball, holds the 10th position, solidifying his status following a Cy Young-winning season. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., formerly of the Toronto Blue Jays, now ranks number 9 after securing a long-term contract extension and returning to elite form.
The eighth-man slot features Elly De La Cruz from the Cincinnati Reds, whose dynamic skills and notable achievements in the previous season underline his elite status. Jackson Merrill, a promising outfielder from the San Diego Padres, stands at number 7, expected to learn and excel quickly in the league. Julio Rodríguez from the Seattle Mariners appears strongly at number 6, showcasing his potential as a regular contender for MVP honors moving forward.
In the top five, James Wood from the Washington Nationals is positioned at number 5, drawing attention for his hitting capabilities. Following closely is Gunnar Henderson from the Baltimore Orioles, who demonstrates elite potential after being named AL Rookie of the Year. At number 3, Pete Crow-Armstrong from the Chicago Cubs is rapidly rising through the MLB ranks, displaying both offensive impact and defensive skills. Number 2 is right-handed pitcher Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates, with an impressive early-career resume typical of generational talent. Lastly, at number 1, Bobby Witt Jr., the Kansas City Royals' standout shortstop, showcased excellent development in his early career and is heralded as a future face of baseball.
To conclude the Moneyline projections for the 2030 season, a summary presents the highlighted players set to fill positions on an anticipated All-MLB team. Those include catchers Adley Rutschman, infielders including Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at first base, second baseman Kristian Campbell, third baseman Marcelo Mayer, shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., and outfielders Pete Crow-Armstrong, James Wood, and Julio Rodríguez. The pitching rotation may feature Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal, Hunter Greene, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Chase Burns.








