Philly Leader

MLB Pipeline is set to unveil its 2025 Top 100 Prospects list on Friday, January 24. Ahead of this release, MLB Pipeline has been examining the top prospects by position. The focus recently turned to shortstops, a position that consistently garners attention due to the notable talent it produces.

Francisco Lindor and Bobby Witt Jr. were among last year's MVP candidates, alongside Elly De La Cruz, Gunnar Henderson, and Jackson Merrill. Most of these players have featured prominently in previous editions of MLB Pipeline's preseason Top 10 Shortstops rankings.

The upcoming Top 10 Shortstops list for this year is expected to include future stars as well. Shortstops occupy 25 positions on the forthcoming Top 100 Prospects list—the highest number ever—with the first ten ranking in the upper third. Returning from last year's rankings are Carson Williams (Rays), Jordan Lawlar (Diamondbacks), and Marcelo Mayer (Red Sox), who are anticipated to join Major League Baseball this season.

The complete schedule for revealing top prospects by position began with catchers on January 14 and will conclude with right-handed pitchers and the overall Top 100 on January 24.

Williams, Lawlar, and Mayer were all high school first-round picks in the 2021 Draft. Colson Montgomery (White Sox) narrowly missed making the top ten. The class of 2023 also includes promising talents such as Colt Emerson (Mariners) and Aidan Miller (Phillies), both first-round picks, along with Kevin McGonigle (Tigers) from a supplemental round.

Jacob Wilson leads in hitting ability with a contact rate that earned him recognition during his time at Grand Canyon University. Sebastian Walcott's power potential was noted even before he signed for $3.2 million in 2023. Jordan Lawlar demonstrates exceptional speed comparable to elite players like Witt Jr., while both Walcott and Williams are recognized for their arm strength.

Carson Williams stands out for his fielding capabilities, having won a Minor League Gold Glove in 2022. He is projected to excel defensively in Major League Baseball as well.

Among other superlatives, Williams is seen as having the highest ceiling due to his potential offensive output combined with defensive prowess. JJ Wetherholt might have been a top draft pick if not for an injury but remains noted for his strong combination of skills.

Jacob Wilson emerged as a Rookie of the Year candidate after making his major league debut post-draft despite an early injury setback.

Kevin McGonigle made significant progress over the past year after being less heralded initially among Detroit's top prospects following his selection in the draft.

Lastly, Konnor Griffin was highlighted as one to watch after signing as a ninth overall pick last July with potential across multiple facets of play including defense at shortstop or center field.

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