MLB All-Star Futures Game 2025: Five Top Prospects Poised for Big-League Stardom
The MLB All-Star Futures Game 2025 showcased a collection of the brightest young stars inching ever closer to the majors. With the second half of the season underway and MLB teams preparing for critical playoff pushes, several top prospects have emerged as legitimate candidates for a big-league call-up. Here are five standout players who stole the spotlight in Atlanta and look ready to break through soon.
1. JJ Wetherholt, INF – St. Louis Cardinals
JJ Wetherholt’s journey from 2024 first-round draft pick to Triple-A standout has been remarkably swift. After dominating at Class AA Springfield, Wetherholt was promoted to AAA Memphis just a week before the Futures Game. Known for his electric speed and elite base-running instincts, Wetherholt has been caught stealing just twice in 18 attempts—a success rate of 88.9%.
Though a natural shortstop, the Cardinals may utilize him at second or third base given their depth. His versatility, paired with St. Louis’ surprising playoff contention, makes him a likely candidate for a call-up soon. With the mentorship of legends like Ozzie Smith, Wetherholt is not just fast—he’s focused and fearless.
2. Harry Ford, C – Seattle Mariners
Harry Ford is no stranger to the Futures Game—it’s his third appearance. At 22 years old, the Atlanta native has been raking in Triple-A, boasting a .292 average with an .854 OPS. Though currently blocked by slugging catcher Cal Raleigh, Ford’s consistency and plate discipline make him a prime candidate for a trade or late-season promotion.
Ford’s maturity and perspective set him apart. “My career’s in God’s hands,” he says, trusting the process while staying prepared. Whether it’s with Seattle or another team, Ford’s MLB debut feels inevitable.
3. Carson Whisenhunt, LHP – San Francisco Giants
With the Giants acquiring Rafael Devers in a blockbuster trade that sent Kyle Harrison to Boston, Carson Whisenhunt has emerged as San Francisco’s next big pitching prospect. Sporting a devastating changeup and mid-90s fastball, Whisenhunt has made steady progress in Triple-A Sacramento with a 4.50 ERA.
Thanks to increased innings under new club president Buster Posey, Whisenhunt is developing the durability needed to succeed in the majors. With close friends Landen Roupp and Hayden Birdsong already in the rotation, Whisenhunt could be the next in line to make an impact at Oracle Park.
4. Trey Yesavage, RHP – Toronto Blue Jays
A 2024 first-round pick out of East Carolina, Trey Yesavage has rocketed through the Blue Jays’ system in just over a year. Now at AA New Hampshire, Yesavage has maintained strong strikeout numbers and continues to refine his command and pitchability.
Toronto currently leads the AL East, and while a major league debut this season may be a stretch, Yesavage’s progress suggests he could factor into the team’s plans in 2026. His dedication, adaptability, and growing arsenal make him a long-term asset for the franchise.
5. Brody Hopkins, RHP – Tampa Bay Rays
Two years ago, Brody Hopkins was still splitting time in the outfield. Now, he’s emerged as a frontline pitching prospect for the Tampa Bay Rays. A key piece in the Randy Arozarena trade, Hopkins is thriving at Double-A Montgomery with 98 strikeouts in 80 innings and a 3.35 ERA.
Armed with a powerful fastball and wipeout slider, Hopkins could offer bullpen help or develop into a reliable starter. With Tampa Bay in playoff contention, his versatility and velocity could earn him an earlier-than-expected MLB debut.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 MLB All-Star Futures Game did more than entertain—it unveiled the next wave of baseball superstars. Whether it’s Wetherholt’s blazing speed, Ford’s polished approach, or Whisenhunt’s dynamic stuff, these five players are not just knocking on the door—they’re ready to burst through it.
As the trade deadline looms and playoff races heat up, don’t be surprised if these prospects are wearing major league uniforms before summer fades. The future is now, and these rising stars are ready for the show.
