Top 5 This Week

Related Posts

2025 First Base Prospect Rankings for Dynasty Leagues

Fantasy BaseballDynasty Fantasy BaseballMLB Prospects
Wes Hughes
Author: Wes Hughes
20 min.read
Bryce Eldridge 2025 First Base Prospect Rankings for Dynasty Baseball Leagues

Ranking season is in full swing, and I’m diving into my third base prospect rankings next. At FantraxHQ, I rank 400 prospects to help all you fantasy baseball addicts dominate your leagues. First base is top-heavy with some real sluggers and 70-80 grade power as you might expect. The is a distinct drop-off, but a pretty extensive mid-tier of prospects that are ready to contribute at the next level. Additionally with many players currently being ranked at C that are likely to transition to 1B this position is ready to add to an already loaded MLB fantasy position.

While there are plenty of question marks, the potential here is undeniable. It’s clear that some teams are stockpiling talent at third base—looking at you, Reds, Astros, and Cubs. These rankings are my own analysis, crafted with a focus on fantasy baseball. While I appreciate resources like MLB’s Top 100 or Baseball America’s Top 100, my rankings are all about fantasy potential. Defense is great, but it doesn’t score you fantasy points or win categories.

Here are a few notes on how I approach my rankings:

  • Fantasy Focused: These rankings are exclusively based on a player’s fantasy potential and my analysis of their value in fantasy leagues.
  • Criteria: Stats matter, Statcast data and park factors are weighted, injuries impact rankings, and future team context is considered. However, these rankings are a snapshot in time of a player’s projected future fantasy value.
  • Position Eligibility: Players with multiple positions are ranked at their primary position based on where they played the most games in the minors. For example, Kristian Campbell will appear in the 2B rankings.
  • Your Team, Your Vision: Use these rankings as a guide, not gospel. Your fantasy team is your own, and you should rank and draft prospects based on your own evaluations and strategy.
If you aren’t playing your dynasty leagues on Fantrax, you’re missing out on the deepest player pool and most customization around. Just starting out in a dynasty league? Then check out Wes Hughes & Trevor Hooth’s Top-400 Overall Fantasy Prospects and Wes Hughes Top-500 Dynasty League Rankings.

More Prospect Rankings: C | 1B | 2B | 3B | SS | OF | SP – (Links will be added as our Prospect Rankings continue)

Top 20 First Base Prospect Rankings

 20: Abimelec Ortiz | Texas Rangers | Level: AA | Age: 22

Abimelec Ortiz, a product of Bayamon, Puerto Rico, combines strong contact skills with above-average power, making him a standout. He dominated the lower levels in 2023, hitting .294/.371/.619 with 33 home runs and 101 RBIs at just 21 years old. In 2024, Ortiz faced challenges at AA, posting a .243 average with 18 home runs, but his underlying stats showed promise. His strikeout rate improved significantly, dropping from 27.8% in 2023 to 21.8% in 2024 while maintaining a 10% BB rate. Notably, his swinging strike rate fell to 11%, and his contact rate increased by nearly 5%, reaching 76.4%. Much of his struggles appear tied to bad luck, as his BABIP dropped 60 points to .280 this season. Ortiz boasts legit 60-grade or better power and above-average contact skills, setting him up for strong future production.

19: Will Simpson | Tampa Bay Rays | Level: AA | Age: 23

Will Simpson, acquired by the Rays in the Jeffrey Springs trade, raises the question: what hidden talent did they uncover this time? A recent MLB Executive Poll crowned the Rays “Best at Acquiring Prospects,” with 68.8% of the vote, dominating the field. This suggests Simpson might be their next undervalued prospect with untapped potential and an elite skill set yet to shine. In 2024, he slashed .282/.378/.482, showing solid on-base skills, and caught fire at AA Midland, hitting .348 late season. Despite being third in line for at-bats among Rays first base prospects, his tools and upside are difficult to ignore. Simpson’s knack for extra-base hits, with 53 in 2024, and a 144 wRC+, stands out. His 14% walk rate and manageable 25% strikeout rate are both highly encouraging signs for his future. With the Rays’ track record of developing stars like Baz, Caminero, and Arozarena, Simpson might be their next success story.

18: Cole Mathis | Chicago Cubs | Level: ROK | Age: 21

The Cubs’ second-round pick, Cole Mathis, signed for $1.6M after being drafted, showcasing his high value as a prospect. Once regarded as a top two-way player, Mathis excelled as a hitter after recovering from Tommy John surgery in 2023. His short swing keeps his hands inside the ball, projecting a future power hitter with above-average contact skills. Mathis is an athletic first baseman who hit 14 homers and stole 14 bases at College of Charleston last season. He carries 50+ hit grades, 55+ power grades, and enough potential for the Cubs to initially announce him as a 3B. Despite limited experience at third base, he likely sticks at first, where his strike-zone discipline sets him apart. Mathis avoids chasing pitches and controls at-bats, and his athleticism suggests he could advance quickly through the Cubs’ system.

17: Ethan Anderson | Baltimore Orioles | Level: A+ | Age: 21

The Orioles’ incredible draft success continued with Ethan Anderson, their second-round pick in the 2024 draft. The switch hitter boasts a smooth, controlled swing from both sides, arguably the most aesthetically pleasing in the entire draft class. A Virginia alum, Anderson fits the Orioles’ mold as an athletic catcher who also played first base and outfield. He crushed 15 homers in his sophomore season, followed by 8 during his draft-eligible junior year. In pro ball, he started slow, hitting .268 at Low-A, but caught fire at A+, slashing .353/.450/.412. Anderson profiles as a hit-over-power bat, with a 60-grade hit tool and 45-50 power grades, offering defensive flexibility. He could stick at catcher, first base, or outfield, depending on team needs and his development. Given Baltimore’s success developing talent, Anderson could make huge strides up rankings by 2026, including on this list.

16: Blake Burke | Milwaukee Brewers | Level: A+ | Age: 21

Blake Burke, the first of several Brewers prospects, was another standout from the 2024 FYPD class. Burke has more raw power than Anderson and an equally strong hit tool, making him a natural next pick. His plus bat speed and barrel control unlock his power, evidenced by 20 home runs and 30 doubles at Tennessee. Over his college career, Burke mashed 50 home runs and displayed an advanced approach, hitting .379 with a 1.151 OPS. His strikeout rate improved yearly in college, reflected by a 12.1% swinging strike rate and 22% K rate post-draft. The lefty offers above-average contact, massive power, and a solid approach with no major swing-and-miss concerns. Burke is a 6’3”, 236-pound slugger with a quick, efficient swing that projects to showcase future 70-grade power. His extra-base hit ability makes him an exciting offensive force for Milwaukee.

https://twitter.com/Tennessee_Mojo/status/1878645710561910957

15: Luke Adams | Milwaukee Brewers | Level: A+ | Age: 20

Next among the Brewers’ corner infield prospects is Luke Adams, a 2022 12th-round pick from Hinsdale Central High School. After excelling in the prospect league with a .404 average and 4 home runs, he accepted a $282k offer. Adams’ swing has many moving parts, requiring rhythm and timing to consistently produce hard contact. Despite this, he achieved an 80% contact rate and a low 6.4% swinging strike rate at A+. These numbers support his strong on-base and contact skills, along with 60-grade power, as shown by 11 home runs at A+. It’s puzzling that he hit just .227, yet maintained a .443 OBP at A+ this season. The answer lies in his plate discipline, with a 30.7% swing rate, one of the lowest in the minors. He had a 25% called strike rate, meaning one out of every four pitches was taken for a strike. His 19% walk rate, elite plate discipline, and above-average contact skills, paired with 60-grade power, are impressive. Adams’ issue is a mental one—becoming more aggressive and trusting his ability could unlock his star potential.

14: Mike Boeve | Milwaukee Brewers | Level: AA | Age: 22

Mike Boeve earned his college fame as one of the hardest players to strike out, with just nine in 47 games. The lefty hit .401 during his draft year, making him a contender for the best pure hitter in the minors. In pro ball, Boeve dominated rookie ball with a .500 average before being skipped directly to A+. Starting 2024 by repeating A+, he hit .553 over 13 games, earning a quick promotion to AA. At AA, he slashed .338/.415/.471, with flashes of power emerging as he hit six home runs. Boeve’s profile leans hit-over-power, and while he’s not a traditional slugger, his hitting ability is undeniable. His swinging strike rate has never exceeded 7%, contributing to a stellar 15% strikeout rate. He also boasts plus-plus zone contact of 85% or better, including any out-of-zone swings and misses. Despite below-average speed, Boeve’s approach prioritizes contact, though his groundball rate remains higher than ideal. He shows average to above-average raw power and might benefit from sacrificing some contact for power as he matures. The question isn’t whether he’ll hit, but how much power he’ll produce—if he taps into it, superstardom awaits.

13: Ryan Clifford | New York Mets | Level: AA | Age: 21

Ryan Clifford, from Team USA stomping grounds in Cary, NC was a standout national team player before the 2022 draft. Widely regarded as one of the best high school bats, he was pulled away from his Vanderbilt commitment. His power shined as a teenager, with 24 home runs and 20 doubles in 2023, mostly post-Astros trade. Those 24 homers were the second-most by a teenager in the minors, highlighting his immense offensive potential. Clifford’s .262/.374/.480 line showed flashes of a strong hit tool complementing his well-established power. A true three-outcomes player, he posted elite walk rates—23.5% at A+ and 15.6% at AA—but also elevated strikeout rates. In 2024, he hit .216 during an A+ repeat but improved at AA, batting .231 while maintaining his approach. His upward swing path generates natural loft but limits contact, with a 68% contact rate and a manageable 12% swinging strike rate. At just 21, with three full minor league seasons, Clifford’s already-impressive power could still develop further. Notably, his passive approach shows in his 20% called strike rate and 38.5% swing rate. While he’s unlikely a .300 hitter, better zone aggression could unlock a 30-homer, .250-average profile.

12: Yohandy Morales | Washington Nationals | Level: AA | Age: 23

Miami product Yohandy Morales was one of the top college hitters in the 2023 draft, slashing .408/.475/.713 with 20 homers. Across three college seasons, Morales totaled 49 home runs, improving yearly, particularly in his approach and plate discipline. After being drafted, he climbed from rookie ball to AA in 2023, setting lofty expectations for his 2024 season. Repeating AA aggressively in 2024, Morales struggled early and then missed two months due to a thumb injury. Following his return on 7/30, he hit .324 with 5 homers and 7 doubles, showing his pre-injury potential. He briefly played Low-A games to regain timing but finished the season strong despite the injury-shortened campaign. Scouts disagree on his hit tool, rating it as a 45, 35, or 50, but his production speaks for itself. Morales displays real power, capable of foul pole-to-foul pole homers, and a better hit tool than advertised. With no major roadblocks, he could be a big-league contributor in 2025 if he performs well early.

11: Tyler Locklear | Seattle Mariners | Level: MLB | Age: 24

Tyler Locklear climbed from being the Mariners’ #10 prospect in 2023 to earning a big-league debut and #6 ranking in 2024. The VCU graduate ascended quickly, playing three levels in both 2023 and 2024, excelling at each stop. His college power, showcased with 20 home runs, translated well, as he hit 13 homers in 2023 and 16 in 2024. Locklear posted a solid 12% walk rate and a manageable 24% strikeout rate, though his 30% chase rate needs improvement. An aggressive 50% swing rate contributed to an 18% MLB swinging strike rate, which raises some mild concerns. However, he made strong in-zone contact at 84% in the minors, with swings on bad pitches causing most misses. In 2024, he recorded 47 extra-base hits, using the whole field and displaying an advanced offensive approach. Statcast data highlights his above-average bat speed at 72.3 and a MaxEV of 112 mph, ranking in the MLB’s 80th percentile. At AAA, he posted a similar MaxEV of 113 mph and an average EV of 90 mph, reinforcing his potential. These numbers are encouraging for Locklear’s future, especially if he can reduce his swings at pitches outside the zone.

10: Luis Merejo | Cleveland Guardians | Level: A | Age: 19

Luis Merejo was one of the most impressive players to emerge from the DSL in 2023. His first stateside season showcased his potential while revealing some areas needing improvement. In 200 plate appearances in the complex league, Merejo walked 18% of the time but struck out at a 24% clip. At just 18 years old in Low-A, he showed he could handle older, more advanced pitching. In Low-A, Merejo hit .282 and slugged .466, adding 3 homers, 8 doubles, and a triple. Scouts are excited about his offensive ceiling, which looks incredibly promising as he matures and develops further. Despite some areas for growth, his advanced exit velocity data highlights his immense upside for a player his age. Standing 6’2” and 180 pounds, Merejo’s raw power could develop into 60-70 grades as he fills out physically. His current 67% contact rate is decent but could improve, along with his 15.6% swinging strike rate. Merejo ranked 4th among hitters his age in 90% exit velocity average (102.1 mph), trailing players like Robert Calaz and Sebastian Walcott. At 18, Merejo has a higher ceiling than those ranked below him but also carries a potentially lower floor.

9: C.J. Kayfus | Cleveland Guardians | Level: AA | Age: 23

C.J. Kayfus, a teammate of Yohandy Morales at Miami, was drafted a round later by the Cleveland Guardians. Morales entered the draft as the better prospect with a stronger season, but Kayfus outperformed him in 2024. Kayfus slashed .291/.393/.511 between A+ and AA, showing surprising power with 17 home runs. His 50-grade power, as rated by MLB, emerged more consistently than expected, hinting at a shift in his approach. He has a strong feel for the barrel, consistently hitting the ball hard with at least above-average contact ability. In his first AA experience, Kayfus posted a .261 average, though with a 28% K rate and 13.5% swinging strike rate. His contact rate at AA was 73%, but he dismantled A+ pitching with a .338 average and 1.015 OPS. Kayfus also demonstrated nearly equal walk-to-strikeout ratios in A+, showing an advanced approach at the plate. While his exit velocities aren’t as eye-popping as Jac Caglianone or Xavier Isaac, he’s more consistent as a hitter. If he can tap into a bit more power and reach 20+ homers, he could be a major steal.

8: Tyler Black | Milwaukee Brewers | Level: MLB | Age: 24

Toronto native Tyler Black had one of the quieter breakouts in the minor leagues during the 2023 season. He crossed AA and AAA, compiling 55 extra-base hits, including 12 triples and 18 home runs. Black walked nearly as often as he struck out, finishing with an 88/100 BB/K ratio that season. This approach contributed to a strong .284/.417/.513 slash line in his first taste of the upper minors. In 2024, he took a small step back while repeating AAA, though key metrics remained steady. He posted a 13% walk rate, his career low, and an 18% strikeout rate, a career high. Black’s middling 85 mph average exit velocity is balanced by a 108.6 Max EV and 32% hard-hit rate. These numbers are slightly below average but don’t overshadow his excellent contact skills, including a 90% in-zone contact rate. His 8.1% swinging strike rate highlights his ability to consistently put the ball in play. While he lacks eye-popping power, Black’s well-rounded skill set stands out. He stole 55 bases in 2023 and added 20 in 2024, further boosting his value. Black could be a sneaky roto pick, contributing to four categories and offering a slight boost in the fifth.

7: Ralphy Velazquez | Cleveland Guardians | Level: A+ | Age: 19

The Guardians’ 2023 first-round pick, Ralphy Velazquez, had an underwhelming first full season of pro ball in 2024. That doesn’t diminish his talent or why he was the 23rd overall pick, as jumping levels is challenging. Velazquez’s disciplined approach and quick swing suggest he’ll hit for both average and power in the future. At 6’3” and 215 pounds, his frame is maturing, showcasing the strength scouts admired during his draft year. This led to 11 home runs and 23 doubles over 453 plate appearances, highlighting his power potential. Despite hitting .243 in Low-A, Velazquez’s performance warranted an aggressive promotion to A+ at just 19 years old. His 76% contact rate and 12.4% swinging strike rate show promise, likely improving as he adjusts to advanced pitching. With natural power and impressive bat speed, Velazquez taps into his plus raw power with ease. His advanced approach, simple mechanics, and plus exit velocities indicate his struggles in 2024 shouldn’t linger into 2025.

6: Deyvison De Los Santos | Miami Marlins | Level: MLB | Age: 21

Introducing the 2024 Joe Bauman Award winner, Deyvison De Los Santos, who crushed 40 home runs last season. The next closest minor leaguer had 34, cementing him as the top power threat in the minors. De Los Santos also led the minors with 120 RBIs and added 25 doubles to round out his impressive season. Traded from Arizona to Miami for AJ Puk, he now has a clear path to playing time. With 70-grade raw power, his swing-for-the-fences approach results in elevated strikeout numbers but highlights his immense potential. Despite being a three-true-outcomes hitter, De Los Santos improved his strikeout rate to a manageable 24.7% in 2024. His approach may need refinement for MLB success, but a Jhonkensy Noel-like rookie year seems plausible. Even with strikeouts, he hit .294 last year, demolishing AA with a .372/.426/.696 slash line and a 1.112 OPS. There’s a chance he could also hit for average, though that remains uncertain. Statcast data is equally impressive, with a 116 Max EV and 92.3 mph average EV, comparable to Yordan Alvarez. While expectations are lofty, his downside is significant, but De Los Santos offers late-round power potential heading into 2025.

5: Tre’ Morgan | Tampa Bay Rays | Level: AA | Age: 22

Sometimes, a player stands out in research not for elite power or speed but for excelling at everything consistently. For me, that player is Tre’ Morgan, who some fantasy circles might rank much lower on this list. In points leagues, Morgan might deserve a lower rank, but his overall production speaks volumes. He hit an impressive .371 at AA with a minuscule 7.8% strikeout rate across most of his plate appearances in 2024. Morgan’s 11% walk rate contributed to a .408 OBP, and his athleticism helped him steal 20 bases, making him a roto sleeper. His power, graded at 40, is developing beyond expectations, as he hit 10 home runs this past season. Morgan’s athleticism may earn him early at-bats in Tampa’s outfield, though his elite first-base defense secures long-term opportunities. At the plate, he showed remarkable discipline, achieving 85% contact rates at multiple levels, except during his AA debut, where it dipped below 80%. He could also contribute in points leagues, walking as often as he struck out, with 48 walks, 48 strikeouts, and 23 doubles. Morgan doesn’t have the ceiling of other prospects but offers the best average, runs, and stolen bases at the position.

4: Xavier Isaac | Tampa Bay Rays | Level: AA | Age: 21

Former #1 first base prospect Xavier Isaac took a step back in 2024 but still showcased tools that excite evaluators. His 80-grade raw power ranks among the best in the minors, rivaling Deyvison De Los Santos and Jac Caglianone. Isaac began 2024 strong, slashing .287/.381/.535 at A+, building on an impressive 2023 season. However, strikeouts became a significant issue, jumping to 30% at A+ and an alarming 40% in 133 AA plate appearances. For the season, Isaac posted an 18.7% swinging strike rate and an uninspiring 60% contact rate, raising concerns. Despite his 30% strikeout rate, Isaac still hit .287 and walked at an impressive 13% clip, showing promise. There’s no doubt Isaac can become a perennial 30-homer bat, but the question remains whether he’ll resemble Joey Gallo. The 2025 season will be critical for Isaac, as continued strikeout issues could diminish support from evaluators. If he refines his approach, showcasing his natural power without over-swinging, he could reach Matt Olson-like peak performance.

3: Jac Caglianone | Kansas City Royal | Level: A+ | Age: 21

Jac Caglianone has been a household name in baseball since his days at Plant High School as a two-way star. At Florida, he became one of the most feared college hitters ever, hitting 75 home runs in three seasons. His junior year was particularly absurd, slashing .419 with a 1.419 OPS, 35 home runs, and 58 walks. Many of those walks were likely due to pitchers avoiding him, as his plate discipline is good but not elite. Caglianone’s swing features natural tilt and length, contributing to his 70-grade game power and 80-grade raw power. However, the swing length can be exploited by skilled pitchers attacking him inside, testing his adjustments. His minor league debut included a .241/.302/.388 slash line, followed by .236 with 5 home runs in the fall league. While not eye-popping, these numbers reflect the timing reset often needed after transitioning from college to pro ball. In limited samples, he showed a slightly aggressive 57.6% swing rate but managed a respectable 75% contact rate. Despite a 14% swinging strike rate, he only struck out 20%, lower than the expected 25-27% range. If Caglianone maintains a strikeout rate of 25% or better while reducing chases, he could move quickly. By 2026, he has the potential to deliver 35+ homer seasons if these adjustments come together.

2: Nick Kurtz | Athletics | Level: AA | Age: 21

Three players from the 2024 draft are soaring up boards, and Nick Kurtz is among the most notable names. Some criticized the Athletics for selecting him fourth overall with Hagen Smith and Jac Caglianone still available. However, Kurtz was their top target, and so far, he’s justified their confidence with his performance. He started strong, hitting .400 with a .571 OBP and 4 home runs at Low-A before skipping directly to AA. A hamstring injury ended his regular season early, but he dominated the fall league, proving his talent. Across 110 plate appearances in Low-A, AA, and the fall league, Kurtz hit .360 with a 1.17 OPS and 6 homers. He also added 6 doubles and 2 triples, further solidifying why he’s climbing draft boards. Fantasy players are eager to grab the next Wyatt Langford, seeing Kurtz as an early-round target. His underlying numbers support the hype, including a 6.6% swinging strike rate and an 83% contact rate. While Kurtz’s star potential is clear, exercise caution, as his price has skyrocketed in drafts. He has superstar upside but shouldn’t be drafted ahead of Josh Naylor or Triston Casas, who offer similar ceilings.

1: Bryce Eldridge | San Francisco Giants | Level: AAA | Age: 20

Kristian Campbell’s rise was impressive, but Bryce Eldridge climbing from Low-A to AAA at 19 years old is remarkable. The 16th overall pick in 2023, Eldridge possesses all the tools to become a perennial All-Star and early-round draft pick. He hit .293 with 23 home runs and 27 doubles while performing well at AA and AAA in brief stints. Although those promotions may have been to gain at-bats, Eldridge wasn’t overmatched despite facing significantly older competition. At just 19, he already boasts 70-grade power that could easily develop into 80-grade as he matures. Unlike Xavier Isaac, Eldridge’s swing-and-miss concerns are less pronounced, though he posted a 25% K rate overall and 31% at AAA. His 14% swinging strike rate and 71% contact rate are impressive given his age and advanced competition. Eldridge’s Max EV of 109 mph and average EV of 92 mph align with stars like James Wood and Junior Caminero. Younger prospects like Jackson Chourio and Jackson Merrill broke camp last year due to incentive rules, pushing talented players to the majors faster. It’s plausible Eldridge could make the team out of camp, especially with no clear roadblocks in his way. He has the power and tools to succeed at the big league level, even if struggles are expected early. Eldridge adjusts quickly, as shown throughout his rise, and could contribute in roto, points, or any format by next season.

Follow me on X: @ProspectsOnWes | Get an early start on your 2025 Draft Prep with the updated Top 500 Dynasty Rankings.

Fantrax is one of the fastest-growing fantasy sites in the fantasy sports industry, and we’re not stopping any time soon. We are the most customizable, easy-to-use, and feature-rich platform in the industry, offering the greatest fantasy experience for your dynasty, keeper, redraft, and best ball leagues. Fantasy sports doesn’t sleep, and neither does Fantrax, with seasons running 365 days a year. Take your fantasy leagues to the next level now at Fantrax.com!
Fantasy BaseballDynasty Fantasy BaseballMLB Prospects
Previous article
Pete Crow-Armstrong Fantasy Baseball Dynasty Sell High Candidates
3 Fantasy Baseball Thoughts for the 2025 Chicago Cubs
Next article
Elic Ayomanor College Fantasy Football Senior Bowl Preview
Senior Bowl Preview Show: The Wide Receivers part I
Wes Hughes
Wes Hughes

Share your take!

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Popular Articles