The newest crop of baseball superstars is garnering attention in less-recognized areas of the sport. Teams like the Baltimore Orioles, Kansas City Royals, Pittsburgh Pirates, Seattle Mariners, and Cincinnati Reds are seeing increased interest due to the remarkable individual and team performances on display.
Looking ahead to potential Hall of Fame candidates, here are five players aged 25 or under who are standing out in the 2024 season:
Gunnar Henderson of the Baltimore Orioles has been a standout player, with a Rookie of the Year award in 2023 and continued success in the current season, boasting 28 home runs and a .956 OPS.
Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals has showcased his baseball pedigree as a versatile shortstop with exceptional skills both defensively and offensively, making him a pivotal player for the team’s future.
Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates, despite being a rookie pitcher, has displayed immense talent with consistent fastballs reaching 102 mph, earning him an All-Star selection and establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with.
Julio Rodriguez of the Seattle Mariners has faced challenges this season but remains a promising player with the potential to overcome setbacks and regain his form to make a significant impact in the league.
CJ Abrams of the Washington Nationals has shown continuous improvement since his debut, with a notable increase in OPS, earning him his first All-Star nod and solidifying his position as a rising star in the league.
While these five players are making a name for themselves, several other young talents deserve honorable mentions for their contributions to their respective teams, including Michael Harris II of the Braves, Corbin Carroll of the Diamondbacks, and Grayson Rodriguez of the Orioles, among others.
As the 2024 season progresses, these young players are poised to make a lasting impact on the sport and potentially secure a spot in the prestigious Hall of Fame in the future. With their talent, dedication, and determination, they embody the future of baseball and are set to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.