MLB · 1 year ago

5 MLB Rookies Primed for Huge Second Seasons in 2025

Sportsgrid Staff

Host · Writer

Luis Gil, SP – New York Yankees: Dominating from the Mound
Yankees pitcher Luis Gil delivered a strong rookie season as a key piece in their rotation. Gil’s ability to command games with his high strikeout rate and low ERA earned him Rookie of the Year consideration. His impressive season reflect his impact on the mound, where he regularly shut down opposing lineups. Gil’s contributions to a high-pressure Yankees environment underscore his potential as a long-term ace, solidifying his place in New York’s future plans as they continue to rebuild their pitching depth.
Cade Smith, RHP – Cleveland Guardians: A Standout Reliever
Cade Smith was a revelation in the Guardians’ bullpen, quickly becoming a high-leverage reliever alongside Emmanuel Clase. The Canadian right-hander pitched 75 1/3 innings with a 1.91 ERA, accumulating 103 strikeouts and a 0.903 WHIP across 75 appearances. Smith’s 12.3 K/9 rate and FanGraphs WAR of 2.7 led all MLB relievers. His strong FIP of 1.40 highlights his elite control, making him a go-to arm for manager Stephen Vogt in 2024. Though Smith is behind bigger names in Rookie of the Year race, his stellar season will likely earn him some down-ballot votes.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.
Wilyer Abreu, RF – Boston Red Sox: Outfield Excellence
Wilyer Abreu became a key figure in the Red Sox lineup in 2024, recording a .253/.322/.459 slash line with 15 home runs and 58 RBIs. Known for his hard-hitting approach, Abreu ranked in the 94th percentile for hard-hit rate, with a .206 ISO. Defensively, he shone with +17 Defensive Runs Saved and +7 Outs Above Average, establishing himself as one of the best right fielders in the league. Abreu’s defensive prowess has him contending for a Gold Glove, and his overall contribution has positioned him as one of the AL’s top rookies.

For all your MLB deep dives check out our friends at Just Baseball.
Download the SportsGrid App
Stay Ahead of the Game and Elevate Your Sports Betting Experience with SportsGrid. Download the SportsGrid App from the Apple Store and Google Play Store.
Spencer Horwitz, 1B – Toronto Blue Jays: Midseason Impact
Spencer Horwitz joined the Blue Jays midseason and quickly made his presence felt. In 97 games, Horwitz posted a .265/.357/.433 line with a 125 OPS+ and 12 home runs. His plate discipline stood out, with 4.14 pitches per plate appearance, putting him among top hitters like Paul Goldschmidt. Horwitz’s 19 doubles and 40 RBIs added power to his disciplined approach, with his .168 ISO above the league average. His production as a late call-up has made him a potential breakout candidate for 2025, looking to secure an everyday spot in Toronto’s lineup.

Swing for the Fences with SportsGrid’s free daily MLB Game Picks and MLB Prop Picks.
Colton Cowser, OF – Baltimore Orioles: A Rising Star in the AL East
Baltimore Orioles outfielder Colton Cowser, named AL Outstanding Rookie by players, led AL rookies in various offensive categories. Known for his patience and powerful swing, Cowser’s consistency in clutch moments helped the Orioles’ playoff push. He is a top contender for AL Rookie of the Year and has become a centerpiece in Baltimore’s promising young core. His contributions both offensively and defensively make him a standout, setting high expectations as he continues to develop as a player with five-tool potential.

Have all the intel you need? Free actionable info is one click away! Sign up for our daily newsletter.
Luis Gil, SP – New York Yankees: Dominating from the Mound
Yankees pitcher Luis Gil delivered a strong rookie season as a key piece in their rotation. Gil’s ability to command games with his high strikeout rate and low ERA earned him Rookie of the Year consideration. His impressive season reflect his impact on the mound, where he regularly shut down opposing lineups. Gil’s contributions to a high-pressure Yankees environment underscore his potential as a long-term ace, solidifying his place in New York’s future plans as they continue to rebuild their pitching depth.
Cade Smith, RHP – Cleveland Guardians: A Standout Reliever
Cade Smith was a revelation in the Guardians’ bullpen, quickly becoming a high-leverage reliever alongside Emmanuel Clase. The Canadian right-hander pitched 75 1/3 innings with a 1.91 ERA, accumulating 103 strikeouts and a 0.903 WHIP across 75 appearances. Smith’s 12.3 K/9 rate and FanGraphs WAR of 2.7 led all MLB relievers. His strong FIP of 1.40 highlights his elite control, making him a go-to arm for manager Stephen Vogt in 2024. Though Smith is behind bigger names in Rookie of the Year race, his stellar season will likely earn him some down-ballot votes.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.

5 MLB Rookies Primed for Huge Second Seasons in 2025

Sports Betting

Sportsbook Promos

Social Casinos