Baseball is witnessing a youth revolution, with young stars dominating the prospect rankings like never before. But here's where it gets controversial: are we witnessing the rise of the next generation of legends, or is this youth movement overhyped? A glance at MLB Pipeline's Top 100 Prospects list reveals a startling fact: only one player in the top 10 is older than 21. This trend has us wondering: who are the brightest stars shining at every age from 16 to 25? Inspired by Will Leitch's iconic column, we're diving into the best prospects at each age, considering unsigned international talents, high school and college players, and those in MLB farm systems.
Before we begin, let's clarify the rules. Any player retaining rookie eligibility is fair game, regardless of whether they're unsigned international phenoms under 25 or collegiate standouts. Take Shunpeita Yamashita, a 23-year-old Japanese right-hander. Though his NPB team hasn't posted him, he'd be a top prospect if signed by an MLB club—though he won't make our list. Conversely, Munetaka Murakami, who graced this list last year, is now ineligible as he's turned 25 and is considered a foreign professional.
With the World Baseball Classic on the horizon, which young stars will steal the spotlight? And how do upcoming Draft prospects measure up against their peers? Let's dive into the best prospects in baseball, ages 16 to 25.
16: Hernandez, SS, International Prospect
Hernandez is the undisputed top international prospect for the 2026 signing period. His exceptional physical tools and mature approach belie his age. All five of his skills project as plus, except for an average arm, and he's likely to remain a defensive asset up the middle. What's truly impressive? He dominated the Venezuelan Major League, outperforming former MLB players twice his age.
Runner-up: Jacob Seamon, OF, Metrolina Christian Academy (N.C.)
17: Willits, SS, Draft Prospect
Willits, a switch-hitter with a polished plate approach, could be the third-youngest No. 1 overall pick ever. The Oklahoma native excels from the left side and boasts one of the highest ceilings in this year's Draft class. With bat-to-ball skills and a relentless motor, he's a safe bet to remain at shortstop, following in the footsteps of his father, former big leaguer Reggie.
Runner-up: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian HS (Texas)
18: Made, SS, Minor Leagues
Made is a switch-hitting speedster with power and defensive prowess at shortstop. He earned two promotions this year, becoming the youngest player in Double-A. His swing decisions are exceptional, rarely chasing or whiffing, while consistently making hard contact. As he matures, he'll be a nightmare for pitchers.
19: Griffin, SS, Minor Leagues
Long touted as the top prospect in the '24 Draft, Griffin exceeded expectations in his debut season, becoming baseball's No. 1 prospect. The Mississippi native silenced doubts about his hitting and defense while showcasing double-plus speed and power. He could make his MLB debut before turning 20, poised as a 30/30 threat for years.
20: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA
Cholowsky, the top-ranked undrafted player in 2023, is now one of college baseball's best prospects. Once a hit-over-power player, he's grown into his 6-foot-2 frame, displaying plus power from the right side. His strong shortstop defense, featuring a high school quarterback's arm, gives him a high floor. If he continues developing, he'll be a top-10 prospect next summer.
21: Kevin McGonigle, OF, Minor Leagues
McGonigle might be the Minor Leagues' purest hitter, batting better against lefties (.321/.444/.628) than righties (.300/.396/.569) last year. Health was his only hurdle, but he rebounded with MVP honors in the Arizona Fall League. Growing up idolizing Chase Utley, McGonigle is on track to emulate his childhood hero's career.
22: Yesavage, RHP, Minor Leagues
Yesavage did it all in his first season, pitching at every full-season Minor League level before his MLB debut in September. His over-the-top delivery (7.09 ft, second only to Justin Verlander) pairs with a rising fastball, devastating splitter, and promising slider and curve. He struck out 160 in 98 Minor League innings and dominated the postseason, poised to soar into the Top 100.
23: Wetherholt, 2B/SS, Draft Prospect
Wetherholt, a West Virginia star, might have been the 2024 Draft's top pick if not for hamstring issues. Now healthy, he's the pure hitter scouts envisioned. His low-effort swing from the left side produces pop to all fields, with elite contact rates (79 percent) and a discerning eye. He's likely to start in St. Louis, though his infield position depends on the Cardinals' offseason moves.
24: McLean, RHP, Minor Leagues
McLean, a former two-way player and quarterback at Oklahoma State, fully committed to pitching in 2025. Once a likely reliever, he now profiles as a top-of-rotation starter with a six-pitch mix led by a sinker-slider combo. This year, he posted an elite 60.2 percent ground-ball rate and 30.3 percent strikeout rate across 48 MLB innings.
25: Sproat, RHP, Mets
Sproat made his MLB debut just over two years after being drafted 56th overall in 2023. The right-hander has shown triple-digit velocity, though his fastball shape hasn't generated many whiffs, leading him to rely more on his sinker. He induces ground balls and chases with his sweeper and curve while limiting hard contact with improving control.
Runner-up: Quinn Mathews, LHP, Cardinals (STL No. 5)
And this is the part most people miss: Are we overvaluing youth in baseball, or is this truly a golden age for young talent? What do you think? Is the future of baseball brighter than ever, or are we setting unrealistic expectations for these prospects? Let us know in the comments!
