The All-Star Break signifies the unofficial halfway point of the MLB season. The 2025 season showcases numerous players excelling both at bat and on the mound, but a few standout performers clearly rise above the rest. Let’s explore the top 10 players this season, including position players and pitchers, highlighting what makes them exceptional among hundreds of competitors.
Francisco Lindor, who has never won an MVP but has been selected to five All-Star teams over seven seasons, continues to impress with his combination of strong batting (.260/.330/.457, 19 home runs in the first half) and exceptional defense. Lindor has been consistently valuable, contributing at least five wins above replacement for four straight seasons.
Jose Ramirez, Lindor’s former teammate in Cleveland, is one of the game’s most underrated stars. Just shy of becoming the seventh player in history with 40 home runs and 40 steals in a season, Ramirez has joined an elite group by recording 250 home runs and 250 steals in his career. This year, he’s currently on track with 18 homers and 29 steals.
Zach Wheeler, a runner-up for the National League Cy Young Award in 2021 and 2024, remains one of the top pitchers today. Leading MLB pitchers in Bwar with 4.8 and topping the NL in strikeouts (154), Wheeler has been exceptionally tough on hitters this season.
At just 23, Paul Skenes has quickly become the NL All-Star Game’s starting pitcher. Known for his phenomenal pitching since debuting in 2024, he has the best ERA (2.01) and the lowest home run rate in the NL, showcasing dominance on the mound despite the Pirates’ struggles.
Bobby Witt Jr. has transformed from a defensive liability to one of MLB’s best players, combining his raw talent with strong production at the plate. He is on pace for another 30-home run, 30-steal season with a solid batting line of .294/.345/.504.
Tarik Skubal, the Tigers’ 2018 first-round pick and 2024 AL Cy Young winner, has improved further this year with a 2.23 ERA, a 181 ERA+, the lowest WHIP, and the highest strikeout ratios in the majors, maintaining his status as a premier pitcher.
Pete Crow-Armstrong, a shining star for the Cubs, has emerged rapidly in power hitting, becoming the fourth-fastest player to reach 25 home runs and 25 steals. His solid performance (.265/.302/.544) continues to make him a top talent in the NL.
Cal Raleigh claimed the 2025 Home Run Derby title and leads MLB catchers with 38 home runs halfway through the season. Raleigh’s impressive power numbers and offensive consistency have elevated him to one of the game’s best players.
Aaron Judge, renowned as baseball’s premier hitter, is having his best season yet with a .355/.462/.733 batting line, 35 home runs, and leading the majors in OPS+. Despite his historic 62-home run record in 2022, Judge keeps raising the bar.
Shohei Ohtani, a remarkable two-way player, excels both as a pitcher and hitter. Leading the NL in slugging (.605), home runs (32), and OPS+ (174), he continues to dominate, balancing his pitching starts with outstanding offensive production.
Fan Take: This midseason spotlight on MLB’s top players highlights a thrilling blend of veteran excellence and emerging young talent, signaling a bright future for the sport. Baseball fans should be excited, as these performances not only elevate the game’s competitive edge but also bring fresh stories and dynamic matchups to enjoy in the months ahead.
