Top 12 MLB Catches of 2025

2025 has been a year of extraordinary defensive plays in Major League Baseball, with outfielders making some of the most memorable catches in recent history. Leading the pack is Denzel Clarke of the Oakland Athletics, whose home run robbery has already etched his name into MLB lore. Here’s a rundown of the top 12 catches of the year so far:

1. Denzel Clarke, Oakland Athletics (June 9)

Clarke’s catch against the Orioles was nothing short of cinematic. With his back to home plate, he leaped several feet off the ground, balancing himself on the wall with his right hand while his gloved left hand reached above and beyond the fence to snag the ball. A’s manager Mark Kotsay called it "phenomenal," and it’s hard to argue. Clarke’s defensive prowess has been on full display, ranking him among the top center fielders in Statcast’s fielding run value and defensive runs saved.

2. Denzel Clarke, Oakland Athletics (June 6)

Just days before his iconic home run robbery, Clarke made another spectacular play, sacrificing his body to secure a crucial out. His awareness of the wall and willingness to put his body on the line left pitcher J.P. Sears in awe, calling it "easily the best catch anybody has ever made when I’m pitching."

3. Daulton Varsho, Toronto Blue Jays (April 29)

Varsho’s diving catch drew comparisons to some of the greatest catches in MLB history. Although he fell down in the process, the sheer difficulty of the play makes it a standout moment of the season.

4. Tyrone Taylor, New York Mets (April 29)

Taylor’s full-speed sprint into deep left-center resulted in one of the most impressive diving catches of the year. Mets announcer Gary Cohen called it "a thing of beauty," and fans quickly dubbed Taylor a "forever Met."

5. Michael Harris II, Atlanta Braves (May 12)

Harris’s catch evoked memories of Jim Edmonds’ famous play, showcasing his incredible range and athleticism in center field.

6. Dane Myers, Miami Marlins (May 31)

Myers’s highlight-reel catch involved crashing into the wall while maintaining control of the ball, proving his defensive mettle.

7. Victor Scott II, St. Louis Cardinals (May 4)

Scott’s leaping grab to rob Juan Soto of a home run was another jaw-dropping moment, solidifying his reputation as one of the game’s brightest young stars.

8. Julio Rodriguez, Seattle Mariners (April 2)

Rodriguez’s elite defensive metrics were on full display when he robbed Kerry Carpenter of a base hit, further cementing his status as one of the best center fielders in the league.

9. Wilyer Abreu/Ceddanne Rafaela, Boston Red Sox (May 14)

This tag-team play saw Abreu save a home run, with Rafaela providing support for a truly unique defensive effort.

10. Pete Crow-Armstrong, Chicago Cubs (May 31)

Crow-Armstrong’s diving catch had just a 10% catch probability, yet he made it look effortless. His Gold Glove potential is undeniable, with his outs above average ranking in the 100th percentile.

11. Ceddanne Rafaela, Boston Red Sox (May 8)

Rafaela’s catch at Fenway Park showcased his speed and fearlessness as he raced deep into the triangle and crashed into the wall to secure the out.

12. Derek Hill, Miami Marlins (April 8)

Hill’s catch was made even more impressive by the 19-mph wind he battled, proving his ability to adapt to challenging conditions.

Honorable Mentions

• Ian Happ (April 5): The three-time Gold Glove winner showed why he’s one of the best.
• Jacob Melton (June 6): The Astros rookie displayed impressive range in his recent call-up.
• Riley Greene (June 2): Greene’s catch in the left-field corner was another standout moment.

2025 has been a year to remember for MLB fans, with these catches setting a new standard for defensive excellence.