Fantasy Baseball Player Notes
2025 Fantasy Baseball Draft Notes
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1.
Aaron Judge
NYY
Aaron Judge roared back to form in 2024, reclaiming his spot as one of fantasy baseball's most dominant hitters. He topped MLB with 58 home runs and 144 RBIs while posting a phenomenal .322/.458/.701 slash line. Judge also showed improved plate discipline, reduced strikeouts, and remained healthy through 704 plate appearances. Along the way, he scored 122 runs and even chipped in 10 stolen bases. While Juan Soto's presence in the Yankees lineup provided some support, Judge's production should remain elite even without him in 2025. At 32 years old, durability is a minor concern, but the Yankees have effectively managed his workload by balancing his time between the outfield and designated hitter. Leading the league with an 11.2 WAR, Judge is a lock to dominate four of the five offensive categories in standard 5x5 leagues, making him a no-doubt top-three pick in drafts.
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2.
Juan Soto
NYM
Juan Soto's 2024 performance reinforced why he's a fantasy powerhouse and contributed to his record-setting deal with the New York Mets this offseason. At just 26 years old by the end of the season, Soto demonstrated exceptional durability by appearing in 157 games. He excelled in his trademark areas, boasting a .419 on-base percentage and a .288 batting average. Soto also delivered career highs with 41 home runs and 128 runs scored while contributing 109 RBIs and seven stolen bases. There are some unknowns regarding his supporting case in New York. While Francisco Lindor is an elite option ahead of him in the order, the rest of their lineup remains an enigma depending on what else they do in free agency. Either way, Soto gives you plenty of opportunity to rack up counting stats. Just beware of a small letdown following the massive contract.
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3.
Kyle Tucker
CHC
Kyle Tucker's 2024 was a lost year due to a leg fracture that limited him to only 78 games. He still managed 23 home runs and 11 stolen bases in only 277 at-bats, and he ended the season with more walks (56) than strikeouts (54). An offseason trade landed Tucker in Chicago to play his contract year with the Cubs. Wrigley Field is middle-of-the-pack when it comes to ballpark factors for lefties with extreme pull tendencies, but Tucker is such a solid all-around hitter that the difference should be negligible compared to Minute Maid Park. Assuming his leg is completely healed, the 27-year-old will be out for a massive payday in 2025, and there is every reason to take him in the first round to anchor your outfield.
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4.
Mookie Betts
LAD
Mookie Betts got off to a torrid start in 2024 before a hand injury took out a chunk of his season and left him with only 116 games played. As hand injuries are wont to do, it sapped a bit of his power (19 HR), but he still reached 75 runs and RBIs while stealing 16 bases, his highest total since 2019. Betts's Statcast profile is one of a player who is simply really good at hitting baseballs. He is in the 90th percentile or higher in xwOBA, xBA, squared-up percentage, chase rate, whiff rate, strikeout percentage, and walk percentage. His 11% strikeout rate stands out in particular. Betts will have shortstop and outfield eligibility in all leagues and, depending on the format, may carry 2B as well. One of the most solid draft strategies in 2024 was "just draft all the Dodgers," and 2025 doesn't look much different. Betts is the table setter and a star in all fantasy formats.
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5.
Corbin Carroll
ARI
Corbin Carroll experienced the common sophomore slump after a standout Rookie of the Year campaign, though his performance improved in the second half of the season. Despite this rebound, he fell short of expectations tied to his first-round ADP. Carroll managed to hit 22 home runs (11 in August alone), surpassed his rookie run total with 121 scored (compared to 116 in 2023), and ended just two RBI shy of his debut season's mark. However, his slash line took a notable hit, dropping to .231/.322/.428 from .285/.362/.506. His stolen bases also declined, with 35 steals in 2024 compared to 54 the previous year, even though he played in more games. Carroll's potential as a five-category contributor remains appealing, and his final stats will likely land between his rookie and sophomore campaigns. However, fantasy managers may feel more comfortable selecting him in the second round rather than the first.
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6.
Fernando Tatis Jr.
SD
Fernando Tatis Jr. dealt with injuries during the 2024 season but remained highly productive when on the field. Over 102 games, he delivered 21 home runs, 64 runs scored, 49 RBI, and 11 stolen bases. His Statcast metrics remain elite, ranking in the 99th percentile for hard-hit rate and in the 97th percentile for both average exit velocity and expected batting average. While his days of swiping 25+ bases may be behind him, Tatis continues to provide excellent power and strong ratios. If the Padres bolster their lineup through free agency, his counting stats could see a notable boost.
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7.
Yordan Alvarez
HOU
Yordan Alvarez set a career-high by playing in 147 games this season. He showcased his power with 35 home runs, complemented by 88 runs scored, 86 RBIs, and a career-best six stolen bases. Alvarez posted an impressive .308/.392/.567 slash line, ranking within the Top 7 across several key offensive categories in all of baseball. While his walk rate dipped from 13.9% to 10.9%, his strikeout rate also improved, reflecting a continued ability to make selective, quality swings. Although stolen bases won't be a significant part of his game, Alvarez remains a reliable contributor in four key categories, cementing his status as a strong first-round option heading into 2025.
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8.
Julio Rodriguez
SEA
Julio Rodriguez's performance across the months is a rollercoaster worth noting. From April through October, his batting averages fluctuated as follows: .256, .274, .206, .375, .234, and .328. J-Rod possesses undeniable five-category potential; however, his production in 2024 showed some decline compared to the previous year. His home runs dropped from 32 to 20, while his runs and RBIs dipped to 76 and 68, respectively. Fantasy managers were also let down by a reduction in stolen bases, going from 37 to 24. Rodriguez's approach at the plate left room for improvement, as evidenced by a 25.4% strikeout rate, a mere 6.2% walk rate, and an alarming 37.4% chase rate. On the bright side, his slash line-.273/.325/.409-was consistent with his 2023 numbers. While Rodriguez might spark debates on draft day, his immense upside keeps him firmly in OF1 territory. Just brace yourself for the potential highs and lows throughout the season.
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9.
Jarren Duran
BOS
Jarren Duran made a significant impact in 2024, proving to be a tremendous asset for fantasy managers who rostered him. Over 160 games, he tallied 111 runs, 34 stolen bases, 21 home runs, and 75 RBIs. Duran also showcased an impressive .285/.342/.492 slash line, establishing himself as a high-tier five-category contributor worthy of early-round consideration. While he occasionally struggles with plate discipline, reflected in his average Whiff% and K%, his 2024 batting average slightly outpaced expectations. Even so, he projects to deliver another 20/30 season with around 100 runs, solidifying his value as a reliable OF2, especially in formats requiring five outfielders.
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10.
Ronald Acuna Jr.
ATL
Ronald Acuña Jr. was limited to just 48 games in 2024 after suffering a torn ACL, a devastating blow to many fantasy rosters. His status for Opening Day 2025 remains uncertain, raising echoes of his situation heading into 2023. That year, Acuña bounced back from a prior knee injury to deliver one of the most remarkable fantasy performances ever, with 41 home runs, 149 runs scored, 106 RBIs, and an incredible 73 stolen bases. While replicating those stats in 2025 may be a tall order, few players at age 27 possess his unique blend of power and speed. Expect a slight draft-day discount due to the injury concerns, but monitor updates on his recovery to ensure his absence won't extend into the season's early weeks.
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11.
Jackson Chourio
MIL
Welcome to the big leagues, Jackson Chourio! The highly-anticipated rookie faced early challenges, struggling through April and May, which led many fantasy managers to drop him. However, those who stayed patient or picked him up later reaped the rewards. The 20-year-old finished the season with an impressive stat line: 21 home runs, 22 stolen bases, and a .275/.327/.464 slash line, mirroring the promise he showed during his stellar 2023 Double-A campaign. He also contributed 80 runs and 79 RBIs, impressive numbers considering the Brewers' lineup often struggled to generate offense. While his Chase% and BB% highlight areas for growth, these are typical for young players adjusting to MLB pitching. Fantasy managers can look forward to slight improvements in his power and speed, with a 25/25 season well within reach as he continues to develop.
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12.
Jackson Merrill
SD
Jackson Merrill made a significant impact for the Padres in 2024. The 21-year-old transitioned seamlessly from Double-A to the majors, delivering an impressive season. He tallied 24 home runs, 77 runs scored, 90 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases, all while maintaining a .292/.326/.500 slash line. These stats are supported by elite underlying metrics, including a .308 xBA (98th percentile), .547 xSLG (96th percentile), and .376 xwOBA (94th percentile). While Merrill's 4.9% walk rate and tendency to chase pitches leave room for improvement, his production more than compensates. Fantasy managers can confidently target him as a strong OF2 option, with 2025 projections aligning closely with his standout 2024 season, making him worth a third-round pick in upcoming drafts.
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13.
Jazz Chisholm Jr.
NYY
Jazz Chisholm finally delivered on his potential by staying healthy in 2024, playing 147 games between Miami and New York. The 26-year-old showcased his versatility, gaining third base eligibility while being a key contributor across multiple categories. Chisholm posted 24 home runs, 40 stolen bases, 74 runs scored, and 73 RBIs. If the Yankees bolster their lineup, his counting stats could climb in 2025. While his Statcast metrics remain unimpressive, his .256/.324/.436 slash line represents a reasonable expectation for fantasy managers. Focus on his power-speed combo, boosted by Yankee Stadium's short right field and his 82nd-percentile sprint speed, and cross your fingers for a full season of health.
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14.
Teoscar Hernandez
LAD
Teoscar Hernández capitalized on his contract year with an impressive season. The 32-year-old joined the Dodgers and filled their need for a right-handed power bat to complement the top of their lineup. He delivered 33 home runs, 99 RBIs, 84 runs scored, and 12 stolen bases while slashing .272/.339/.501. Hernández continued to dominate left-handed pitching, hitting .290 against southpaws. However, his strikeout rate remained elevated at 28.8%, though his power mitigates some of the downside. Now that he is returning to L.A. to continue batting in the middle of the best order in baseball, Hernandez offers a solid return as an OF2/OF3 in fantasy.
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15.
Michael Harris II
ATL
Michael Harris faced challenges in 2024 due to injuries, which appeared to impact his on-field performance. The 23-year-old also experienced some bad luck, as his .264/.304/.418 slash line fell short of his expected stats (.288 xBA and .470 xSLG). Despite this, he managed to tally 16 home runs and 10 stolen bases, showcasing his potential if he can maintain his health. However, Harris has played fewer games than fantasy managers would hope for from a fourth-round pick in each of his first two seasons. While he remains a strong option, his injury history adds risk, making him a less secure choice as an OF2.
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16.
Wyatt Langford
TEX
Wyatt Langford entered the 2024 season as one of the most anticipated rookies, and his debut campaign was a rollercoaster ride. He finished on a high note, posting a .300 batting average in September while launching eight of his 16 home runs and collecting 20 RBI and 25 runs during the month. Langford appears to have navigated the typical challenges of a rookie season, potentially setting himself up to avoid the notorious "sophomore slump." Fantasy managers can reasonably expect a 20/20 season (he tallied 16 homers and 19 steals in 2024), with the potential for improved counting stats if the Texas lineup remains healthy. He's a reliable OF2/OF3 option with plenty of upside for fantasy rosters.
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17.
James Wood
WSH
James Wood joined the Nationals in July 2024 and appeared in 79 games, delivering a performance that had its ups and downs. However, he showed clear progress as the season progressed, particularly in August and September. Wood finished the year with nine home runs, 14 stolen bases, 43 runs scored, and 41 RBIs while posting a respectable .264/.354/.427 slash line. Projected to be an everyday player for Washington next season, Wood has the potential to deliver a strong 20/20 campaign. His impressive Triple-A stats and Rookie of the Year upside will make him a coveted pick in drafts, likely pushing his ADP to around the fifth round.
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18.
Oneil Cruz
PIT
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19.
Anthony Santander
TOR
Anthony Santander had an impressive 2024 season in his contract year, establishing career highs in games played (155), home runs (44), RBIs (102), and runs scored (91). His slash line of .235/.308/.506, combined with a notable reduction in his strikeout rate from 23.2% to 19.4%, highlighted his growth as a hitter. Now 30 years old, Santander heads to Canada on a deal with the Blue Jays and a questionable lineup around him, though Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will certainly provide RBI opportunities. Santander offers a rare combination of significant power and relatively low strikeout rates (career K% of 20.0), but questions remain about whether he can maintain his production after securing a long-term contract. While he's a reliable mid-round pick, early-round investment carries some risk, as regression could be on the horizon.
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20.
Bryan Reynolds
PIT
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21.
Lawrence Butler
ATH
Lawrence Butler made an impressive debut in 2024, showcasing his power-speed combination with 22 home runs and 18 stolen bases. Over 125 games, the 24-year-old contributed 57 RBIs, 63 runs, and a solid .262/.317/.490 slash line, performing in line with his expected stats. While the Athletics' ballpark changes add some uncertainty for hitters, the lineup still offers potential. Butler profiles as a strong mid-round pick with 20/20 upside, making him a reliable OF3 option for fantasy managers.
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22.
Brenton Doyle
COL
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23.
Luis Robert Jr.
CWS
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24.
Spencer Steer
CIN
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25.
Seiya Suzuki
CHC
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26.
Randy Arozarena
SEA
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27.
Cody Bellinger
NYY
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28.
Mike Trout
LAA
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29.
Riley Greene
DET
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30.
Christian Yelich
MIL
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31.
Ian Happ
CHC
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32.
Kyle Schwarber
PHI
Kyle Schwarber delivered another stellar season, showcasing his trademark consistency by blasting 38 home runs, crossing the plate 110 times, and driving in 104 runs. In 2024, he added a .248 batting average to his résumé, stole five bases, and kept his strikeout total under 200 for the first time since 2021-a season in which he played just 113 games. At 31 years old, Schwarber's skill set remains well-suited for maintaining his production. Batting in the heart of a potent Phillies lineup, he's primed to keep racking up numbers. With free agency looming after 2025, he could also bring an extra edge to his performance. Just be prepared to balance out his impact on your team's batting average while enjoying the power surge.
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33.
Steven Kwan
CLE
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34.
Adolis Garcia
TEX
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35.
Brent Rooker
ATH
Brent Rooker delivered a standout fantasy season in 2024, launching 39 home runs, driving in 112 runs, scoring 82 times, and even adding 11 stolen bases. His impressive .293/.365/.562 slash line, however, is unlikely to hold up in 2025, as it significantly outpaces his career .243 batting average. The good news is that Rooker's power is legitimate, supported by a .570 xSLG and a 97th percentile Barrel Rate (16.6%). While his 28.8% strikeout rate showed improvement, it still raises concerns, particularly since players at 30 years old rarely sustain such progress. The Athletics' move to Sutter Health Park in Sacramento-a park that favors hitters-could enhance Rooker's counting stats next season. Though he'll start 2025 with only DH eligibility, his potential for 40 home runs places him among an elite group of power hitters, making him a worthwhile addition to fantasy rosters.
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36.
Brandon Nimmo
NYM
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37.
Colton Cowser
BAL
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38.
Nick Castellanos
PHI
Nick Castellanos struggled mightily through the first two months of last season, leaving fantasy managers questioning his value. His batting average plummeted to uncharacteristically low levels, a stark contrast to his typically strong starts. By May, many deemed him droppable, a surprising turn for the usually reliable 32-year-old. Fortunately, Castellanos found his stride as the season progressed, performing more like the player managers anticipated on draft day. Heading into this year, he projects as a solid OF3/OF4 option in the Phillies' lineup, with the potential to deliver even more if he can recapture his usual hot start.
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39.
Lane Thomas
CLE
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40.
Jurickson Profar
ATL
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41.
Dylan Crews
WSH
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42.
Josh Lowe
TB
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43.
Tyler O'Neill
BAL
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44.
Pete Crow-Armstrong
CHC
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45.
Jasson Dominguez
NYY
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46.
Heliot Ramos
SF
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47.
Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
ARI
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48.
Taylor Ward
LAA
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49.
Marcell Ozuna
ATL
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50.
Cedric Mullins II
BAL
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51.
Kerry Carpenter
DET
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52.
George Springer
TOR
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53.
Tommy Edman
LAD
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54.
Alec Burleson
STL
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55.
Ceddanne Rafaela
BOS
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56.
Jorge Soler
LAA
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57.
Parker Meadows
DET
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58.
Nolan Jones
COL
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59.
JJ Bleday
ATH
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60.
Byron Buxton
MIN
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61.
Jung Hoo Lee
SF
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62.
TJ Friedl
CIN
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63.
Victor Robles
SEA
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64.
Jake McCarthy
ARI
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65.
Evan Carter
TEX
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66.
Brendan Donovan
STL
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67.
Lars Nootbaar
STL
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68.
Jordan Walker
STL
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69.
Joc Pederson
TEX
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70.
Garrett Mitchell
MIL
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71.
Willi Castro
MIN
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72.
Daulton Varsho
TOR
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73.
Matt Wallner
MIN
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74.
Jesus Sanchez
MIA
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75.
Wilyer Abreu
BOS
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76.
Giancarlo Stanton
NYY
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77.
Christopher Morel
TB
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78.
Michael Toglia
COL
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79.
Luke Raley
SEA
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80.
Tyler Fitzgerald
SF
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81.
Starling Marte
NYM
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82.
Andy Pages
LAD
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83.
Roman Anthony
BOS
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84.
Jo Adell
LAA
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85.
Brandon Marsh
PHI
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86.
Masataka Yoshida
BOS
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87.
Sal Frelick
MIL
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88.
Jake Fraley
CIN
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89.
Ryan O'Hearn
BAL
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90.
Leody Taveras
TEX
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91.
Jacob Young
WSH
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92.
Andrew Benintendi
CWS
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93.
Max Kepler
PHI
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94.
Chas McCormick
HOU
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95.
Eloy Jimenez
TB
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96.
Esteury Ruiz
ATH
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97.
Matt Vierling
DET
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98.
Jeff McNeil
NYM
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99.
Heston Kjerstad
BAL
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100.
Alex Verdugo
FA
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101.
Michael Conforto
LAD
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102.
Jarred Kelenic
ATL
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103.
James Outman
LAD
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104.
Jose Siri
NYM
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105.
Jhonkensy Noel
CLE
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106.
MJ Melendez
KC
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107.
Jack Suwinski
PIT
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108.
Hunter Goodman
COL
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109.
Kris Bryant
COL
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110.
Will Benson
CIN
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111.
Pavin Smith
ARI
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112.
Trevor Larnach
MIN
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113.
Victor Scott
STL
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114.
Dylan Moore
SEA
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115.
Harrison Bader
FA
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116.
Austin Hays
FA
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117.
Nelson Velazquez
KC
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118.
Alek Thomas
ARI
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119.
Mitch Haniger
SEA
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120.
Emmanuel Rodriguez
MIN
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121.
Jonny DeLuca
TB
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122.
Bryan De La Cruz
ATL
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123.
Hunter Renfroe
KC
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124.
Chase DeLauter
CLE
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125.
Josh Smith
TEX
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126.
Jesse Winker
NYM
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127.
David Fry
CLE
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128.
LaMonte Wade Jr.
SF
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129.
Ezequiel Duran
TEX
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130.
Joey Loperfido
TOR
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131.
Seth Brown
ATH
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132.
Johan Rojas
PHI
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133.
Colby Thomas
ATH
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134.
Mauricio Dubon
HOU
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135.
Mike Yastrzemski
SF
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136.
Davis Schneider
TOR
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137.
Andrew McCutchen
PIT
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138.
Jake Meyers
HOU
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139.
Wenceel Perez
DET
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140.
Ramon Laureano
FA
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141.
Jonatan Clase
TOR
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142.
Amed Rosario
WSH
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143.
Kevin Alcantara
CHC
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144.
Whit Merrifield
FA
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145.
Justyn-Henry Malloy
DET
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146.
Alex Kirilloff
FA
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147.
Tommy Pham
FA
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148.
Jordan Beck
COL
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149.
Charlie Blackmon
FA
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150.
Kyle Stowers
MIA
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151.
Chris Taylor
LAD
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152.
Mark Canha
FA
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153.
Adam Duvall
FA
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154.
Spencer Jones
NYY
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155.
Jon Berti
FA
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156.
Chandler Simpson
TB
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157.
Sam Hilliard
COL
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158.
Eddie Rosario
FA
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159.
Owen Caissie
CHC
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160.
Alejandro Osuna
TEX
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161.
Harold Ramirez
FA
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162.
Zac Veen
COL
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163.
Richie Palacios
TB
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164.
Tyrone Taylor
NYM
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165.
Jerar Encarnacion
SF
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166.
Hyun-soo Kim
FA
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167.
Jacob Melton
HOU
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168.
Blake Perkins
MIL
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169.
Rob Refsnyder
BOS
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170.
Austin Martin
MIN
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171.
Chase Davis
STL
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172.
Mike Tauchman
CWS
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173.
Griffin Conine
MIA
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174.
Everson Pereira
NYY
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175.
Tirso Ornelas
SD
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176.
Robert Hassell III
WSH
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177.
Luis Matos
SF
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178.
Dylan Beavers
BAL
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179.
Joshua Palacios
PIT
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180.
Dominic Canzone
SEA
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181.
Daniel Schneemann
CLE
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182.
Jhostynxon Garcia
BOS
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183.
Jakob Marsee
MIA
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184.
Alexander Canario
CHC
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185.
Trayce Thompson
FA
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186.
Drew Gilbert
NYM
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187.
Charlie Condon
COL
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188.
Dylan Carlson
FA
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