Who are the breakout candidates for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game?

By Oliver Wiener June 15, 2025 10:41

As the 2025 MLB All-Star Game approaches, a fresh crop of breakout candidates is making waves across both leagues, eager to earn their first nod to baseball’s midsummer classic. These players combine impressive stats, burgeoning star power, and compelling narratives that set them apart as the season’s most exciting emerging talents.

American League Breakout Candidates

Cal Raleigh, C, Seattle Mariners

Raleigh is arguably the most dominant offensive catcher in the game this season. With 26 home runs already, he’s on pace to shatter the franchise’s single-season power records for a catcher. His .268 batting average, combined with a .377 on-base percentage and a staggering 1.016 OPS, highlights his all-around offensive prowess. Defensively, Raleigh is a Gold Glove-caliber presence behind the plate. As MLB.com notes, “No other backstop in either league can compete with Raleigh’s unprecedented production,” making him a near-lock to start the All-Star Game for the AL.

Jackson Holliday, 2B, Baltimore Orioles

Holliday, last year’s No. 1 overall prospect, has transformed his game after taking hitting advice from his father. Over the past 43 games, he’s hitting .284 with six home runs and six stolen bases, showing a balanced offensive skill set. While the AL second base race remains competitive with veterans like Gleyber Torres and Jose Altuve, Holliday’s upward trajectory positions him as a strong breakout candidate.

Junior Caminero, 3B, Tampa Bay Rays

Caminero boasts one of the fastest bats in the AL, with an average swing speed of 78 mph, second only to Oneil Cruz. His 15 home runs (tied for the AL lead at third base) demonstrate his power potential. Though overshadowed by stars like Alex Bregman, Caminero’s blend of youth and power makes him a compelling choice for the All-Star roster.

Corey Seager, SS, Texas Rangers

Despite a recent slump, Seager’s advanced metrics suggest he’s been one of the most effective shortstops offensively. His expected batting average (.292) and slugging (.534) outpace his actual numbers, indicating bad luck rather than poor performance. Statcast ranks him No. 1 among MLB shortstops in expected weighted on-base average (wOBA), making him a strong candidate to break out at the midsummer classic.

National League Breakout Candidates

Pete Crow-Armstrong, CF, Chicago Cubs

Crow-Armstrong has emerged as a star in real time, combining elite defense, speed, and surprising power. He ranks second in MLB in WAR (4.0), trailing only Aaron Judge, and leads all NL outfielders in Runs Prevented. His highlight-reel catches and dynamic play have made him a favorite among Cubs fans and a likely first-time All-Star starter.

Paul Skenes, SP, Pittsburgh Pirates

Skenes is one of the game’s most dominant pitchers, boasting a 2.15 ERA and 77 strikeouts over 12 starts. As the Pirates’ ace and a Cy Young candidate, he’s expected to make his second consecutive All-Star appearance and could even start the game again.

Elly De La Cruz, SS, Cincinnati Reds

Already a household name, De La Cruz is on pace for a 30-homer, 30-steal season, leading the Reds in multiple offensive categories. His consistent production and aggressive playstyle make him a natural breakout candidate for the NL.

James Wood, RF, Washington Nationals

Wood’s combination of power and speed has made him a cornerstone for the Nationals’ rebuild. With 16 home runs and nine stolen bases, his first All-Star appearance seems imminent if he maintains his current pace.

Honorable Mentions

Logan O’Hoppe, C, Los Angeles Angels has already hit 14 homers in just 55 games, on pace for a historic power season for a catcher.
Corbin Carroll, OF, Arizona Diamondbacks continues to impress despite his team’s struggles, with early projections suggesting he could be a starter.

The 2025 All-Star Game promises to showcase a blend of established stars and rising talents. Breakout candidates like Cal Raleigh, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Jackson Holliday are not only making strong cases statistically but are also capturing fan and analyst attention with their dynamic play. As voting continues, these players could redefine the midsummer classic and signal the next generation of MLB stars.