Top 10 MLB Pitchers in 2025: Rankings & Stats

By Oliver Wiener June 05, 2025 09:18

As the 2025 MLB season progresses, the pitching landscape is dominated by a mix of established aces and emerging stars. Based on recent performance, advanced metrics, and expert analysis, here are the top 10 pitchers currently shaping the league with their dominance on the mound.

1. Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers

Tarik Skubal has reclaimed his position atop the pitching hierarchy after winning the 2024 AL Cy Young and pitching a near-flawless 13-strikeout shutout this season. His 2.26 ERA and 99 strikeouts in just 75⅔ innings underscore his dominance. Notably, Skubal recorded a 102.6 mph strikeout pitch, the fastest by a starter since 2008, showcasing his electric stuff. His ability to combine power and control makes him the frontrunner for a second consecutive Cy Young Award.

2. Hunter Brown, Houston Astros

Brown has emerged as a bona fide ace following a breakout 2024. Leading the American League with a 2.04 ERA and allowing the fewest hits per nine innings (5.2), Brown’s 71 strikeouts in 61⅔ innings highlight his efficiency. His steady rise places him as a top contender for the AL’s best pitcher in 2025.

3. Max Fried, New York Yankees

Fried has been everything the Yankees hoped for after signing him to a $218 million contract. He boasts a perfect 6-0 record and leads MLB with a minuscule 1.29 ERA through his first 10 starts. His consistency never allowing more than two earned runs in a game this season cements his status as an elite southpaw ace.

4. Zack Wheeler, Philadelphia Phillies

Despite never winning a Cy Young, Wheeler remains one of the game’s most dominant pitchers. With a 5-1 record, 2.67 ERA, and an NL-leading 0.891 WHIP, Wheeler is a workhorse who ranks second in innings pitched (64). His 80 strikeouts reflect his ability to overpower hitters consistently.

5. Nathan Eovaldi, Texas Rangers

Eovaldi continues to defy age, posting a career-best start with a 1.61 ERA and 65 strikeouts in 61⅓ innings. His streak of five consecutive starts allowing one run or fewer demonstrates his reliability as Texas’s ace.

6. Kris Bubic, Kansas City Royals

Bubic has quietly become the Royals’ rotation anchor, sporting a 1.47 ERA and 61 strikeouts over 10 starts. His remarkable May, allowing just one run total, signals a breakout season for the 27-year-old lefty.

7. Garrett Crochet, Boston Red Sox

Acquired in a blockbuster trade, Crochet has been dominant with a 1.98 ERA and 78 strikeouts in 68⅓ innings. His ability to pitch deep into games five starts of at least seven innings makes him a valuable asset for Boston.

8. Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh Pirates

Skenes, a young ace, recently threw his first career complete game, an eight-inning, one-run effort. His 2.44 ERA and 62 strikeouts in 62⅔ innings reflect his growing command and potential as a future Cy Young candidate.

9. Jacob deGrom, Texas Rangers

Returning from Tommy John surgery, deGrom has shown flashes of his former dominance with a 3.13 ERA and 69 strikeouts in 51 innings. His revamped fastball topping 97 mph and improved command position him as a top-tier pitcher if he maintains health.

10. Logan Gilbert, Seattle Mariners

Gilbert has solidified his role as Seattle’s frontline starter with consistent performances. While not flashy, his ability to limit damage and pitch deep into games makes him a reliable top-10 starter.

MLB analyst Eno Sarris notes, “Skubal’s blend of velocity and control is unmatched right now, but pitchers like Brown and Fried are pushing the envelope with their consistency and strikeout ability. This season’s pitching race is one of the most competitive in recent memory”.

The 2025 pitching landscape is rich with talent, featuring a balance of dominant veterans and rising stars. Tarik Skubal’s return to the top spot is a testament to his elite skill set, but challengers like Hunter Brown and Max Fried ensure that the race for pitching supremacy remains wide open as the season progresses.

These pitchers not only lead in traditional stats like ERA and strikeouts but also excel in advanced metrics, underscoring their value in today’s analytically driven game. Fans can expect thrilling performances from these aces as they vie for postseason glory and individual accolades.