Ranking the Top 5 Catchers for the 2025 MLB Season

1. William Contreras – Milwaukee Brewers

2024 Stats: 155 G, .281/.365/.466, 23 HR, 92 RBI, 131 wRC+, 5.4 fWAR

William Contreras claims the top spot as the best catcher in baseball heading into 2025. Since joining the Brewers via trade in 2023, Contreras has led all catchers in fWAR (11.2) and ranks second in wRC+ (128). Known for his offensive prowess, Contreras has also blossomed into one of the league’s premier defensive catchers. His combination of elite hitting and improved fielding solidifies him as the standard at the position.

5. Patrick Bailey – San Francisco Giants

2024 Stats: 121 G, .234/.298/.339, 8 HR, 46 RBI, 81 wRC+, 4.3 fWAR, +16 Framing Runs, 29% CS%

Patrick Bailey has quickly established himself as a premier defensive catcher, leading all players in Fielding Run Value (+22) in 2024. While his offense has lagged behind with a 79 wRC+ over his first 218 MLB games, his defensive impact cannot be overstated. Bailey’s framing ability (+16 Framing Runs) and league-leading contributions behind the plate make him an invaluable asset for the Giants.

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4. Will Smith – Los Angeles Dodgers

2024 Stats: 128 G, .248/.327/.433, 20 HR, 75 RBI, 111 wRC+, 2.7 fWAR, -10 Framing Runs, 33% CS%

A model of consistency, Will Smith has delivered at least a 110 wRC+ in every season of his career, including 20 home runs in 2024. His offense remains a reliable weapon for the Dodgers, though his defense saw a dip with -10 Framing Runs. Despite that, Smith remains a vital contributor, signing a 10-year, $140 million extension that solidifies his place in Los Angeles for the long term.

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3. Adley Rutschman – Baltimore Orioles

2024 Stats: 148 G, .250/.318/.391, 19 HR, 79 RBI, 104 wRC+, 2.8 fWAR

Adley Rutschman has become the heart of the Orioles’ resurgence. While his 2024 campaign saw a drop from his previous two seasons—logging a career-low 104 wRC+—he remains one of the most complete players at the position. Rutschman’s ability to control the strike zone (16.1% K rate) and his defensive prowess ensure he’ll be a cornerstone for Baltimore for years to come.

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2. Cal Raleigh – Seattle Mariners

2024 Stats: 153 G, .220/.312/.436, 34 HR, 100 RBI, 117 wRC+, 5.4 fWAR, +13 Framing Runs, 26% CS%

Cal Raleigh has carved out a reputation as MLB’s most consistent power-hitting catcher. His 34 home runs and 100 RBIs in 2024 highlight his offensive capabilities, while his elite defense earned him the Platinum Glove Award as the best overall defender in the American League. Raleigh’s power and defensive reliability make him one of the most impactful players in the game.

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1. William Contreras – Milwaukee Brewers

2024 Stats: 155 G, .281/.365/.466, 23 HR, 92 RBI, 131 wRC+, 5.4 fWAR

William Contreras claims the top spot as the best catcher in baseball heading into 2025. Since joining the Brewers via trade in 2023, Contreras has led all catchers in fWAR (11.2) and ranks second in wRC+ (128). Known for his offensive prowess, Contreras has also blossomed into one of the league’s premier defensive catchers. His combination of elite hitting and improved fielding solidifies him as the standard at the position.