2025 MLB Draft: College Baseball Stars Shine Early in the Season

The 2025 MLB Draft is already generating buzz as college baseball players take the field in the new season. With the first week of games behind us, it's time to spotlight the top prospects who could dominate draft boards come July.

Key Players to Watch

1. Jace LaViolette (Texas A&M): A powerful left-handed hitter with a frame reminiscent of Lance Berkman, LaViolette is poised to be the top pick. Despite some concerns about his bat-to-ball skills, his potential as a corner outfielder is undeniable.
2. Jamie Arnold (Florida State): This left-handed pitcher has seen a significant velocity spike since high school, now throwing mid-90s fastballs with a devastating sweeper and improved changeup. His low arm slot adds to his effectiveness.

Emerging Talent

3. Tyler Bremner (UC Santa Barbara): A top-tier pitcher who faced early-season soreness but remains a strong candidate for the draft.
4. Aiva Arquette (Oregon State): Known for his infield versatility and above-average power, Arquette is a well-rounded player to watch.
5. Cam Cannarella (Clemson): A plus runner and strong defender, Cannarella excels in contact and in-game speed.

High School Standouts

6. Billy Carlson (Corona HS, CA): An old-for-his-class shortstop with impressive all-around skills, including mid-90s pitching capability.
7. Ethan Holliday (Stillwater HS, OK): Despite some summer struggles, Holliday's left-handed power and infield potential keep him in the top 10.

The Depth of the Draft

This year's draft class is notable for its depth across all positions. While college starting pitching is weaker overall, early-season risers like Bremner and Arnold are making their mark. The combination of talent, development, and the transfer portal has consolidated top prospects into fewer schools, making it easier to evaluate head-to-head matchups.

FV System and Rankings

Using the Future Value (FV) system, players are ranked based on their potential impact at the professional level. As the season progresses, expect these rankings to shift with more data and performance insights.

Conclusion

The 2025 MLB Draft is shaping up to be a showcase of college and high school talent. With players like LaViolette and Arnold leading the way, the draft promises to bring future stars to the major leagues. Stay tuned as the season unfolds and new names rise to the top.