2025 MLB Draft Prospect Trends Now

2025 MLB Draft Prospects Preview – First-Round Talent, Sleepers & Card Market Outlook

The 2025 MLB Draft class is generating buzz among both baseball scouts and card collectors. With the draft approaching, it’s time to examine the top prospects. From projected first-rounders to later-round gems. And what they could mean for MLB teams and for the sports card hobby. In this comprehensive preview, we’ll break down each leading prospect’s amateur profile, likely draft landing spot, and their current/future card market. We’ll also explore how the new NIL era (Name-Image-Likeness) is influencing prospect cards. And provide a comparison table of 20+ top draftees with draft range, team fits, and an investment grade for collectors.

Whether you’re a prospector looking for the next big “1st Bowman” card or a fan curious about your team’s possible pick, read on for a collector-focused scouting report. With actionable insights.

The New NIL Era of Prospect Cards and Early Hype

Before diving into players, it’s important to understand how the NIL era is reshaping the card market for prospects. In the past, card companies waited until players turned pro to sign them to deals. Now, thanks to NCAA rule changes in 2021, companies are locking up talent earlier. This means top amateurs can appear on “pre-rookie” cards – often as autograph inserts in Leaf, Panini Stars & Stripes, or Bowman’s NIL/collegiate products – before they ever play a pro game.

This early exposure cuts both ways for collectors. On one hand, it generates hype and lets fans invest in young phenoms like high school star Ethan Holliday or college ace Jamie Arnold years in advance. However flooding the market with “pre-MLB” autographs can dilute long-term value of those cards. Once the official rookie and Bowman 1st cards arrive. As one card executive put it, “people want to see those [autographs] on rookie cards… [but] coming out as pre-rookie cards, it kind of dilutes the market”. It’s still uncertain whether a player’s first NIL card or their first pro-licensed card will hold more value in the long run. As a result, collectors must balance early excitement with caution.

Implications for 2025 prospects: Many of the names below already have autograph cards in products like 2024 Leaf Metal Draft, Leaf Pro Set, or Panini’s USA Baseball sets. These cards often sell for strong prices due to hype, but the true key cards for most collectors will be each player’s Bowman 1st Chrome autograph after they sign. The short-term spikes (around draft week or when they debut in Bowman sets) can present flipping opportunities, while the long-term holds will depend on if they meet their star potential. With that context in mind, let’s examine the top prospects individually.

Top 2025 MLB Draft Projected First-Round Prospects (and Their Card Outlook)

Below we profile the elite prospects likely to come off the board in the first round. For each player, we highlight their amateur résumé and scouting report, which teams might draft them (and why), and how collectors are viewing their cards – from any NIL autos available now to the future Bowman 1st chase. We’ll also give a short-term vs. long-term investment outlook for each prospect’s cards.

Ethan Holliday – SS/3B, Stillwater HS (OK)

Amateur Profile

Ethan Holliday headlines the 2025 class. He’s a 6’4″ infielder with a “buttery smooth” left-handed swing. He routinely posts triple-digit exit velocities, peaking at 111 mph in showcases. Scouts project him as a 30+ home run threat in the big leagues. He’s the son of All-Star Matt Holliday and brother of 2022 No. 1 pick Jackson Holliday. His pedigree brings both hype and high expectations.

Defensively, he currently plays shortstop. As he fills out, he’s expected to shift to third base. His range and speed suit the hot corner better than short. He offers an above-average glove and a strong arm. Overall, he checks every box: size, bloodlines, raw power, and upside. Teams crave that package at the top of the draft.

2025 MLB Draft Projection & Team Fit

Holliday is the odds-on favorite for the 1.1 pick in 2025. The Washington Nationals own that pick and have scouted him heavily. Industry buzz says the Nats are “focusing most of their efforts” on Holliday and a small group of other top targets. If Washington passes, he won’t slip far. The Colorado Rockies at No. 4 are also linked to him.

A pick-by-pick look:

• Nationals (1): Pair Holliday’s bat with their rebuilding farm.
• Rockies (4): Add a franchise corner bat at Coors Field.

Expect his name to be called in the opening moments of draft night.

Card Market & NIL Autos

Thanks to NIL deals, Holliday already appears in 2023–24 Leaf products (Leaf Metal, Pro Set, Electrum). Low-numbered parallels have fetched hundreds of dollars on eBay. Collectors love his Hall-of-Fame lineage and his booming bat. Demand is strong for these pre-rookie cards.

The true hobby surge will hit when his Bowman 1st Chrome debuts in the 2025 Bowman(eBay) Draft. His autograph versions will rank among the most chased cards in that product. Think Jackson Holliday’s 2022 Bowman 1st all over again.

Investment Outlook

Short-term: BUY/HOLD. Hype peaks around draft day. A No. 1 pick—especially to a big-market club—could send NIL-card prices upward. If you hold his Leaf autos, selling some into that frenzy can lock in gains. But keep a few for the longer run.

Long-term: BUY. Holliday has star upside. His pedigree and power blend could make him a hobby staple. His Bowman 1st and rookie cards could anchor collections. Prep hitters carry risk, but few match his combination of bloodlines and talent. He stands out as a safer long-term bet among 2025 prospects.

Jamie Arnold – LHP, Florida State

Amateur Profile

Arnold is the top college arm in the 2025 class. He’s a polished lefty who dominated ACC hitters. After a rough freshman year, he became FSU’s ace in 2024. He logged 159 strikeouts in 105.2 innings with a 2.98 ERA. and attacks hitters with a lively mid-90s sinker and a sweeping breaking ball. He features three plus pitches: fastball, sweeper, and changeup. All come from a lower arm slot that adds deception. He even added a cutter/slider for more looks. Scouts rave about his arsenal and sharpened control. At times his fastball and breaker were too lively to command. He’s tightened both since. He’s 6’1″ and 190 lbs with an athletic, slingy delivery. That creates tough angles. He projects as a mid-rotation or better starter. He could move quickly through the minors.

2025 MLB Draft & Team Fit

Arnold projects as the first pitcher off the board. He’s in Top 5 talks. In Kiley McDaniel’s mock, he goes to the Angels at No. 2. Angeles favor college arms who can help soon. Arnold’s polish fits that mold. Other suitors include the Rockies at No. 4 and Cardinals at No. 5. St. Louis “loves college lefties” and would pounce at No. 5. Any team drafting Arnold gets a safe, high-floor starter. He’s a valuable piece for rebuilding rotations.

Card Market & NIL Autos

As a college junior, Arnold has limited Leaf NIL exposure. He might appear in USA Baseball products. He could show up in a Panini Prizm Draft set. His name isn’t flashy yet. Early autos remain under the radar. That could change fast if he’s a Top 5 pick. His first Bowman autograph should arrive in late 2025. Expect moderate interest. Pitchers draw less frenzy, but a top-5 lefty will still have a market.

Investment Outlook

Short-term: HOLD. Keep any Arnold autos through draft night. Pitchers rarely see big draft-week surges. Temper expectations.
Long-term: HOLD/SELL. Pitchers carry injury risk and hobby fickleness. If his cards jump after a strong debut, selling into hype can lock gains. Unless you’re a true believer in his ace potential, avoid overcommitting. Arnold remains a “hold and see” prospect—talented, but unlikely to be the class’s hottest investment.

Seth Hernandez – RHP/OF, Corona HS (CA)

Amateur Profile

Hernandez is the top prep pitcher in the 2025 class. He’s also one of the most intriguing two-way talents. He stands 6’4″ and weighs 200 lbs. His athletic delivery looks effortless. He’s touched 100 mph on the mound and sits in the mid-90s with ease. Scouts say he has the best combination of size and stuff in the class—high school or college. His fastball explodes from a high three-quarters slot. His changeup lives in the low-80s with heavy sink and ranks among the nation’s best. He also throws a big curveball and an upper-80s cutter/slider. That four-pitch mix racks up swings and misses. His secondary-command can wobble at times, a common young-pitcher issue. Still, his raw arsenal is electric.

He’s more than a pitcher. A power-bat outfielder with quick hands and a cannon arm. He’s committed to Vanderbilt and could have two-way in college. Yet nearly all scouts agree his future shines brightest on the mound. His blend of athleticism and hitting ability draws early Michael Lorenzen comparisons—though Hernandez is farther along right now. In short, he’s a rare prep arm with triple-digit heat, plus off-speed feel, and elite upside.

2025 MLB Draft & Team Fit

High-school righties are draft risks; few ever go 1-1 overall. Yet Hernandez is locked into top-5 talks. Mock drafts often peg him to the Seattle Mariners at No. 3. Seattle usually leans college arms, but a weak draft top and a talent like Hernandez could change that. Last year’s prep-arm pick in round 2 paid off, and that success may embolden them again. Other suitors include the Washington Nationals, who have him on their No. 1 short list. Any club in the top 5 chasing a frontline starter could bite. The right team must offer patience and a top pitching development program. If it’s Seattle, he’d join a system with promising arms but few matching his ceiling. His Vanderbilt pledge adds a signability wrinkle, but top-5 slot money should close the deal.

Card Market & NIL Autos

As a California prep phenom, Hernandez has modest hobby buzz—less than top hitters. He likely appears in Leaf Perfect Game and Leaf Metal Draft autograph sets. Pre-draft, those autos trade at reasonable prices since pitchers aren’t heavily chased. His two-way upside might intrigue collectors, sparking light Ohtani comparisons. Early card holders should watch the draft: a top-3 selection by a team like Seattle could lift demand. His 1st Bowman card will start slowly, but strong minor-league radar readings will flip that script fast.

Investment Outlook

Short-term: HOLD or light SELL. A top-5 draft slot may spark a small NIL-auto bump, but prep-pitcher spikes are usually muted. Selling into the initial buzz can lock in gains and cut risk.
Long-term: HOLD. Hernandez is boom-or-bust. His arm talent can pay off like a future Josh Beckett or frontline starter. But prep arms often face injuries and stalled growth. Keep a couple of his key autos as a lottery ticket. Don’t overcommit capital. Expect volatility—and enjoy the thrill of following a potential ace.

Eli Willits – SS, Fort Cobb-Broxton HS (OK)

Amateur Profile

Willits is a coach’s dream high school shortstop. He’s an advanced hitter, plus athlete, with a high baseball IQ. He’s faced older competition in Oklahoma thanks to his father and brother coaching at OU. At 5’11″ and about 180 lbs, he’s not a masher. He’s a plus runner with a strong glove. His actions and instincts in the field are polished. Teams trust he’ll stick at shortstop. At the plate, he’s a contact-first hitter who rarely chases bad pitches. He has a mature approach and a track record of hitting for average. His main drawback is a lack of raw power—his medium frame doesn’t project 30 homers. Still, as one of the youngest in the class, many expect him to grow into gap power. Scouts note that this profile often flies under the radar. Think of recent prep shortstops like Marcelo Mayer or Jackson Merrill—steady performers who became solid pros. Overall, Willits ranks among the highest-probability hitters in the prep ranks, offering a high floor and well-rounded tools.

2025 MLB Draft & Team Fit

Willits consistently pops up in top-10 discussions. He could go around picks 7–10. The Miami Marlins at No. 7 have been linked to him. They value hitters with strong contact skills. If Miami passes, the Blue Jays at 8 or another team in that range could scoop him. Industry buzz says he “likely stops here or the next pick.” In one ESPN mock, Miami takes him at 7. The Marlins’ system could use a steady middle-infield bat. They’ve leaned college arms but may pivot for a safe prep hitter. The Royals also prize up-the-middle athletes and could be in play. Whoever drafts Willits gets a “safe” shortstop who can hit for average, steal bases, and anchor the infield.

Card Market & NIL Autos

Willits isn’t a household hobby name—he lacks gaudy power and viral highlights. But prospect collectors know him well. He likely appears in Leaf All-American autograph sets and Perfect Game showcase cards. Pre-draft, his autos trade at reasonable prices. A top-10 selection will ignite collector interest, and supply may be thin. As a contact hitter, he won’t draw the “home run or bust” crowd. Yet players like Jackson Holliday showed that all-around shortstops can command huge hobby love once they shine in the minors. Willits’ 1st Bowman card arrives in late 2025. A strong pro debut could propel its value.

Investment Outlook

Short-term: HOLD. No rush to buy or sell right now. Expect a moderate bump post-draft, smaller than for a slugger.
Long-term: BUY selectively. He has the makings of a high-average, Gold Glove shortstop. Early careers of Francisco Lindor or Xander Bogaerts(eBay) show how a well-rounded profile can drive steady card gains. Willits may never hit 40 homers, but if he becomes a catalyst atop a lineup, his rookie cards will gain demand. If his autos stay underpriced vs. flashier prospects, pick up a few and stash them. Patience could pay off when he debuts and everyone realizes, “This kid can flat-out hit.”

Aiva Arquette – SS/3B, Oregon State University

Amateur Profile

Arquette is the top college position player in the 2025 class. He hails from Hawai’i and stands 6’5″ at about 220 lbs. Scouts compare him to tall shortstops like Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Correa. Despite his size, he moves fluidly on the infield. He has soft hands, plus range, and a strong, quick arm. He’s shown he can handle shortstop, though some expect a shift to third base. Either way, his defense plays on the left side.

Offensively, he’s well rounded. He makes plus-plus contact and sprays the ball to all fields. Early in college, power was a question. As he filled out, he tapped into plus raw pop. He lofts homers in BP and is showing that in games. His approach can be a bit aggressive and he can chase offspeed. But nothing alarming. In sum, Arquette is a polished infielder. He profiles as a .280 hitter with 20+ homers and strong defense.

2025 MLB Draft & Team Fit

Arquette ranks between picks 6–10 in most mocks. One scenario has him at No. 8 to the Blue Jays. Toronto would grab the best college bat if he’s available. Industry insiders call him “clearly the best college position player” in 2025. The Rockies at No. 4 and Cardinals at No. 5 have also shown interest. If he falls past 10, it’d be a surprise.

Blue Jays need a third-base prospect in the upper minors. Arquette fits that gap. He’d also reach the majors faster than prep prospects. Any club drafting him gets a high-floor bat likely ready by 2027. Expect his name early in Round 1, especially in a prep-heavy class.

Card Market & NIL Autos

As a college junior (age 21.7), Arquette has minimal pre-draft cards. He might appear in Team USA sets or unlicensed Onyx/Panini college products. Collectors haven’t formed a strong opinion yet. If he’s the first college hitter taken, his Bowman 1st Chrome will draw attention. That card could surface in late 2025 Bowman Draft or 2026 Bowman.

He’s not seen as a superstar prospect. Think Alec Bohm or Josh Jung at draft time. Their Bowman autos held value but never matched hyped high-school tools. Being from Hawai’i and Oregon State adds a local angle but limited national buzz. That can change with a hot pro start.

Investment Outlook

Short-term: HOLD. Don’t expect a big draft-week spike. If you have a pre-draft auto, you can wait for a top-10 selection to sell. Upside for immediate flip is modest.
Long-term: HOLD/BUY selectively. Arquette projects as a solid MLB contributor, not a phenom. Value investors can benefit if his cards start cheap. Compare him to Ke’Bryan Hayes or C.J. Abrams. Good players, steady demand, but not sky-high prices. If you believe in his bat, pick up a few cards and stash them. Patience may pay off, but temper expectations.

Billy Carlson – SS/RHP, Corona HS (CA)

Amateur Profile

Carlson is a dynamic two-way prep talent from Corona, California. He’s evaluated primarily as a shortstop. Scouts rate him as the premier defensive infielder in this class. He moves with smooth, athletic actions. He shows great lateral quickness, soft hands, and a lightning-fast release. His arm grades plus—he’s been clocked at 99 mph across the diamond. That lets him fire highlight-reel throws from the hole. He also has the internal clock and instincts you want in a shortstop—rare polish for a high schooler.

At the plate, Carlson has quick bat speed and emerging power. He cleared the fence multiple times this spring after focusing on driving the ball. Scouts project 20+ homers once he matures, alongside solid contact skills. He can get pull-happy and aggressive—pro ball will refine that. As a bonus, he can pitch mid-90s with a quality curveball. Most see his future as a position player—a Trea Turner–type table-setting shortstop with pop. His tools, polish, and two-way upside have earned him top-10 buzz.

2025 MLB Draft Projection & Team Fit

Carlson projects in the mid-first round (picks 6–12). The Pittsburgh Pirates at No. 6 are rumored to be very high on him. They drafted a similar athlete (Konnor Griffin) last year. Buzz says, “He’s the pick if he’s there.” If Pittsburgh goes another way, he likely goes in the early teens. Teams like the Giants or Tigers could grab him later in Round 1. But most expect him gone by pick 10. Any team that drafts him plans to groom him as their future shortstop. His arm gives a built-in fallback path as a pitcher, too. If the Pirates select him, he’d join a deep pool of young talent and could help form a dynamic infield.

Card Market & NIL Autos

Carlson carries some hobby shine thanks to his high-profile program and two-way intrigue. Collectors may have spotted him in Leaf Perfect Game showcase sets or snagged pre-draft autos. He isn’t as talked about as prep superstars yet, but that will change with a single-digit pick. A Pirates or big-market team selection will fire up local demand. He flipped his college commitment from Vanderbilt to Tennessee, underlining his top-ranked status. His Bowman 1st will be highly anticipated, and being a California prep phenom adds West Coast buzz. Snagging any of his pre-MLB autos now could pay off.

Investment Outlook

Short-term: BUY/HOLD.

• A pick around No. 6 should spark an immediate bump in demand.
• His premium position, athleticism, and two-way storyline make his autos ripe for short-term gains.
• Consider holding through his rookie-ball debut—strong early performance can drive further hype.

Long-term: BUY.

• Carlson offers a rare balance of floor and ceiling.
• He projects as a dynamic MLB shortstop who can hit 20 homers and swipe bases.
• Two-way talent adds marketing allure, even if he stays at short.
• His advanced glove provides a safety net for reaching the big leagues.
• Patience is key: expect a 3–5 year development window. If he fulfills his potential, those early-bird card buys could pay off handsomely.

Jace LaViolette – OF, Texas A&M

Amateur Profile: LaViolette is a physical specimen – a 6’6”, 230-lb outfielder with jaw-dropping power. As a junior at Texas A&M, he’s one of the most imposing bats in college baseball. Scouts throw around phrases like “80-grade raw power” to describe what Jace can do in batting practice. He has reportedly hit balls over 115 mph exit velocity and can launch tape-measure shots to his pull side (left-handed hitter). Despite his huge frame, LaViolette isn’t just a grip-it-and-rip-it slugger; his approach is relatively advanced. He rarely chases out of the zone and is willing to take walks. Strikeouts are part of his game (as is common with power hitters), hovering around a 25% K-rate, but he offsets it with a good eye. There’s room to further improve contact – if he can get his whiff rate down a bit, his offensive profile would be even scarier. On the bases and in the field, LaViolette is surprisingly agile for his size. He even played some center field for the Aggies, though long-term he likely fits best in a corner (he runs well now, but as he matures he may lose a step). He has enough arm for right field if needed. People have made lofty comps – a lefty-hitting Giancarlo Stanton or perhaps a Kyle Tucker type if everything clicks. In summary, LaViolette’s appeal is that he’s a potential middle-of-the-order masher with a better plate approach than many sluggers his age. If he continues trending upward (he rebounded from a slow start to 2024 and caught fire), he could be one of the first college hitters taken.

• Draft Projection & Team Fit: LaViolette is generally projected in the mid-to-late first round (somewhere in the 9–15 range). In Kiley McDaniel’s mock, he went #9 to the Cincinnati Reds. Cincinnati has shown a penchant for grabbing the “best player available,” and in that scenario LaViolette was the top college bat on the board. The fit with the Reds is intriguing – they have a ton of infield prospects, but fewer high-impact outfielders in the pipeline, so Jace could fill an organizational need for a big outfield power bat. Other teams in that range that could target him include the Chicago White Sox (#10, though they’ve leaned pitchers lately) or maybe the Boston Red Sox or San Francisco Giants a bit later if he slides – clubs that value college performance and could use a power infusion. LaViolette’s range might extend to the back of the first if teams prioritize up-the-middle players earlier, but it would be surprising if he fell past the comp A round given his power potential. Whichever team drafts him will likely start him in an outfield corner and let the bat dictate his rise. With his SEC track record and size, he could move fairly fast in pro ball for a power prospect (think 2-3 years to reach high minors).
• Card Market & NIL Autos: College power hitters can be hobby darlings (just look at how collectors chased Spencer Torkelson or Wyatt Langford around draft time). LaViolette has begun to attract that kind of attention. Being at a big program like Texas A&M, he’s had some exposure – he might appear in Bowman U or Panini Draft products if Topps/Panini included notable college players. Additionally, he was a known name out of high school (though he went undrafted then due to strong college commitment), so he could have a few Leaf cards from high school showcases. If not, he’ll be a fresh face in Bowman which is exciting. His profile (huge lefty power) is one that prospectors love to gamble on, because if it hits, it hits big in card value. If you recall, players like Aaron Judge(eBay) were similar in that they were older prospects with massive power – once Judge exploded, his cards went crazy. LaViolette will need to prove it in minors, but the potential for that kind of path is there. So expect a healthy market for his 1st Bowman, especially from fans of whatever team drafts him and from power-hungry collectors in general.
• Investment Outlook: Short-term – BUY. Among college players, LaViolette might offer one of the better short-term flips. If he goes in the top 10, there will be immediate buzz (“whoa, this 6’6” kid with light-tower power just went early”). His cards in any draft products could see a nice pop, and once his Bowman auto hits the market, I anticipate strong initial prices. Power sells, plain and simple. Long-term – BUY (with some risk). Long-term, you are betting that he becomes a Giancarlo Stanton/Joey Gallo type but hopefully with a better hit tool than Gallo. There’s risk – plenty of big power college bats flame out against pro pitching. But if you believe in his approach (the fact he walks and can adjust), LaViolette could reward investors with a future All-Star slugger. He might be a bit boom-or-bust; if the hit tool only ends up allowing a .230 average with 30 HR, he’s more of an Adam Dunn outcome (valuable but not transcendent in hobby). If he maxes out, he’s a 40-HR threat who anchors a lineup – those guys’ cards do become highly sought after (think Pete Alonso early career, or Judge as the best-case scenario). At current, I’d be willing to buy and hold a few of his key autos, understanding the volatility. The upside is worth it, especially since his draft slot will ensure he gets every opportunity to succeed.

Kade Anderson – LHP, LSU

Amateur Profile: Anderson is part of the trio of elite college left-handers (along with Arnold and Doyle) in this draft. He pitches for LSU and has been “carving up the SEC”, though in a different style than Liam Doyle. Anderson is a bit more of a finesse-and-polish pitcher compared to the power approach of Doyle. He has a smoother delivery and a true starter’s look – meaning he repeats his motion well, has clean mechanics, and profiles as a durable rotation arm. At 6’1” 200lbs, he’s not huge, but he has four pitches that he commands well. Reports say all four of his pitches are above-average and he locates them with above-average control. He can run his fastball into the low-to-mid 90s, and mixes in a good curve, slider, and changeup. No single pitch of his is overpowering, but the mix and his ability to sequence makes him very effective. He’s the type of lefty who might not rack up gaudy strikeout numbers at the next level, but will know how to get outs and limit hard contact. Scouts love the ease of his operation on the mound – it screams “safe big-league starter.” Some have likened him to an early-career Cole Hamels vibe (not saying he’ll be Hamels, but that kind of balanced arsenal and poise). While his ceiling might not be as high as a flame-throwing prep arm, his floor is high. Teams see Anderson as a quick-to-MLB #3 starter type if things go to plan.

• Draft Projection & Team Fit: Anderson is projected in the Top 10 picks, often just a hair behind Jamie Arnold and Liam Doyle among pitchers. The St. Louis Cardinals at #5 are a popular projected landing spot. St. Louis historically loves polished college pitchers, “and one of the three elite [lefties] in this class is almost sure to be available” at their pick. If Arnold and Doyle went before, Anderson could be the guy for the Cards. He’s also been mentioned for teams like Colorado (#4) or any club in that 4–7 zone that wants a college arm but misses on Arnold. It’s unlikely he falls past the mid-first; his consistency is too attractive. For the Cardinals, specifically, Anderson would fit perfectly – they need pitching in their system, and he could advance quickly to complement their current staff. Given their success with pitchers who pound the zone (think of their history with Wainwright, etc.), Anderson’s profile is right up their alley. Another possible fit: the White Sox at #10, since they traded away some pitching (though rumor has them more on prep arms this year). In any case, Anderson should be off the board fairly early, joining whichever team as a top pitching prospect with a “smoother” development path anticipated.
• Card Market & NIL Autos: Kade Anderson has some name recognition from college baseball fans – LSU is a big program (reigning champs in 2023). However, as a pitcher and a college junior, he hasn’t been a focus of the card world pre-draft. If you look at past LSU arms (like Aaron Nola or even Zack Hess in hobby), they don’t usually have cards until after they’re drafted. Anderson likely has no notable cards yet, so collectors will first encounter him in Bowman products post-draft. As a result, his hobby stock will depend heavily on draft position and early performance. If he’s a top-5 pick, people will pay attention to his Bowman Chrome auto initially, but as with most pitchers, the sustained interest will only come if he dominates in minors or reaches MLB and succeeds. The Cardinals (if that’s where he goes) have a strong collector base, so that could help – Cards fans love their prospects. Don’t expect crazy high prices on his cards out of the gate; he’ll probably slot in price-wise similar to how an upper-first-round college arm like Emerson Hancock or Cade Povich did in their draft years.
• Investment Outlook: Short-term – SELL/Hold. For a college pitcher like Anderson, the best short-term play is often selling into any draft or immediate-post-draft hype. If his autos come out and there’s a premium because he was a high pick, you might cash in early. Pitchers typically don’t maintain high prospect card prices unless they are striking out everyone in sight. Anderson’s game is more finesse, so he may not put up eye-popping stat lines that drive card spikes. Long-term – HOLD (or cautious Buy). Anderson could very well become a solid MLB starter, which in the long run would make his rookie cards worth having, especially if he ends up a key piece for a franchise like the Cardinals. However, from an investment perspective, he’s probably not going to be the guy whose cards multiply in value tenfold. The likely scenario is a stable, if unspectacular, trajectory. That said, there’s a strategy in prospecting: sometimes buying reliable arms cheap and waiting until they reach The Show can yield a nice double or triple in value when everyone suddenly cares about them. Anderson fits that mold – you could pick up some of his Bowman autos on the cheap in 6 months (if people overlook him for flashier players) and then unload them when he debuts in MLB. It’s a slower burn strategy. In summary, treat Anderson as a lower-risk, lower-reward investment. Don’t overspend, but don’t ignore him either, especially if he’s impressing in the high minors two years from now.

Liam Doyle – LHP, University of Tennessee

Amateur Profile: Doyle is the third member of the “big 3” college lefties, and he brings a bit more power and edge to the mound. At Tennessee, Doyle has been a strikeout machine, known for his intensity and swinging-strike stuff. He’s got a tick more velocity than Anderson – Doyle can reach the mid-90s and sits low 90s with life – and his breaking ball is a wipeout pitch when it’s on. He attacks hitters aggressively, sometimes to the point that a few evaluators see a reliever risk (he goes max effort at times). But the results speak for themselves; he’s often unhittable when he’s commanding. Think of a lefty with a power fastball-slider combo, and you’re in the ballpark. He also has a changeup, though his approach is more about challenging with the hard stuff. At 6’2” 205, Doyle has a solid build. The comparisons being made are interesting: some scouts say if he tones it down slightly, he could be a fast-track starter, but even as a fallback he might be an impact late-inning arm with his intensity. So teams drafting Doyle could view it as “we’re getting at worst a lights-out reliever, at best a very good starter.” His competitive mound presence has drawn praise – he doesn’t shy from big moments (which he had plenty of in SEC play).

• Draft Projection & Team Fit: Doyle is projected right alongside the other two lefties in the first half of Round 1. A likely landing spot discussed is #4 to the Colorado Rockies (if they opt for a college arm). The Nationals at #1 even considered him as a long-shot option if they went college pitcher route, showing how high some are on him. More realistically, teams like the Rockies or any in the 4-8 range could take Doyle. There’s been talk that the Rockies and others see Doyle and Arnold as fairly interchangeable top college arms – if one is gone, they’ll gladly take the other. The Cardinals (#5) could also be in play if the board falls a certain way. If he somehow slips past #8, I’d be surprised. For team fit: Colorado drafting a pitcher always raises eyebrows due to Coors Field, but they might love Doyle’s strikeout profile as something that plays at altitude. If the Rockies do take him, they’d likely keep him starting until he proves he can’t. Doyle’s personality might actually thrive on a challenge like Coors. Otherwise, any team that drafts him in the top 10 is believing he can start.
• Card Market & NIL Autos: Doyle has started to get attention, especially after being highlighted by outlets like ESPN (he was featured as a riser in draft stock). As a Tennessee Vol, he’s known in college baseball circles – Tennessee had a lot of draft prospects last couple years, so card companies might have included Doyle in something like a USA Baseball set or Panini college set. But like Anderson, he’s not widely available on cardboard yet. His hobby fate will track similarly: if he’s a high pick, there will be initial interest, but as a pitcher he’ll need to truly dominate to maintain hobby heat. One advantage: Doyle’s strikeout numbers could give him a little more hobby shine than a pitch-to-contact guy. Collectors do love prospects who put up gaudy K/9 ratios (just as an example, look at how DL Hall, a lefty with big Ks, had some prospect card buzz despite being a pitcher). Should Doyle rack up strikeouts in Double-A quickly, his cards might see a bump on that alone. So there’s a speculative angle: he might have more “sizzle” potential than Anderson in that regard.
• Investment Outlook: Short-term – HOLD/Sell. On draft night, Doyle going in the top 5 could make a few headlines, but I don’t see a huge run on his cards only because most high-end collectors focus on hitters that night. You could likely get his autos (once released) without too much FOMO pressure. If you do have any, selling one into any immediate hype is fine, but I’d also consider holding a bit to see how he does in his first minors stint. Long-term – HOLD (speculative Buy). Doyle is a bit more speculative than Anderson – he could either raise his stock by mowing down hitters (thus becoming a top pitching prospect whose cards rise), or he could get moved to the ‘pen eventually (which typically tanks starter prospect card value). Because of that variance, he’s more boom-or-bust as an investment. I’d categorize him as a high-risk hold. If you’re risk-tolerant, you might buy a few of his nicer autos if they’re cheap and gamble that he becomes an MLB strikeout leader type. If you’re risk-averse, you’d probably invest elsewhere, as Doyle’s value could stagnate if, say, his control issues pop up. Personally, I’d take a flier on Doyle if his prices are reasonable – the upside of a dominant lefty (maybe something like a Blake Snell profile) is enticing. Just be ready to pivot if he’s not sticking as a starter by, say, 2027. In sum: cautious optimism.

Kyson Witherspoon – RHP, University of Oklahoma

Amateur Profile: Witherspoon is a hard-throwing right-hander from OU who has surged into first-round consideration. He underwent a bit of a transformation recently – remade his delivery – and the results have drawn some exciting comps. At 6’3” and around 210 lbs, Witherspoon has that prototypical pitcher’s build. His fastball now sits in the mid-to-upper 90s and he brings three distinct breaking ball shapes, reminiscent of a young Dylan Cease according to scouts. In fact, the Dylan Cease comparison is explicitly being made in terms of build and repertoire. Kyson has pared down his arsenal lately to focus on a four-seam fastball, a cutter, and a curveball. The four-seamer is the headliner with its velocity, the cutter gives a power mid-80s look, and the curve is more of a traditional breaker. The main question on him is command – like many flamethrowers, he can spray it at times. Additionally, some wonder if he has a true second plus pitch behind the heater, or if the breaking stuff is more just “good” and not great. On his best days, those concerns vanish and he looks unhittable; on off days, they resurface. So there’s a bit of inconsistency. Still, improvement in delivery and focus on fewer pitches suggest he’s trending up. He’s also one of the older first-round prospects (almost 21 by draft), which means he’s expected to be more mature in approach. If he puts it all together, he’s a power righty starter in a class light on those at the top.

• Draft Projection & Team Fit: Witherspoon has been projected around the back of the top 10. In ESPN’s mock, he was slated to Chicago White Sox at #10. The White Sox have shown an affinity for college arms in some drafts (they took college lefties in 2020 and 2023 first rounds) and they might like Witherspoon’s upside. There was also chatter Chicago was considering a high school pitcher (Kruz Schoolcraft) at #10 as a backup, which implies if a college arm like Witherspoon is available, he could be their preferred choice. If he’s not taken there, Witherspoon’s range likely extends into the teens – teams that missed out on the top arms could grab him as the next-best college pitcher. Perhaps the Giants or Red Sox in the low teens could be fits, as they often like established college performers. Team fit wise, the White Sox would get a near-ready power arm to bolster a system that is a bit light on high-end pitching. Witherspoon could progress relatively quickly if starting, maybe reaching high minors in a year and a half. If another team takes him, presumably it’s also a club looking for a balance of some ceiling with relative proximity to the majors.
• Card Market & NIL Autos: Witherspoon, as a college junior, has had limited exposure in the card hobby prior to this. He’s not a household name even among college fans like some SEC pitchers, but being a first-rounder will change that. Once he’s drafted, especially to a team like the White Sox (big market), people will notice. For example, when the White Sox took Garrett Crochet in 2020, his cards had a little bump because he went straight to MLB that year. If Chicago or another team pushes Witherspoon fast (Crochet and Chris Sale are famous Sox examples), he could actually make a quick MLB debut from this class. That might be optimistic, but it’s a thought. Currently, you might not find much Witherspoon to buy – he’ll essentially “debut” in the hobby with his Bowman 1st. Collectors might be lukewarm initially (since he’s not a top 5 guy), which could actually be a good buying window if you believe in his arm.
• Investment Outlook: Short-term – HOLD. There’s no frenzy around Witherspoon at draft time, so you won’t need to rush to act. If he’s picked 10th, that’s about expected. His immediate card prices when Bowman Draft comes out will likely slot below the big names. So you can observe and pick your spots. Long-term – HOLD (leaning Buy as sleeper). Among the college arms, Witherspoon might offer the best bang-for-buck if you’re hunting a sleeper. He’s not as heralded as Arnold, Anderson, Doyle, but his stuff is electric enough that he could end up outpitching some of them at the pro level. If his command clicks, he’s every bit a mid-rotation or better starter. For a modest investment, you could stash a few of his autos and wait. The reason I’m not outright “Buy” is the usual pitcher caveats plus the fact that if he ends up a reliever, the interest will drop. So it’s a measured approach: monitor him. If early signs in minors are good (say he’s striking out a ton with few walks), that’s your cue that his stock could climb and you might want in. If he struggles with walks or consistency, you might avoid. In essence, treat Witherspoon as a high-upside stock you keep on your watchlist – potentially undervalued among his draft peers.

“JoJo” Parker – SS, Purvis HS (MS)

Amateur Profile: Joseph “JoJo” Parker has flown up boards this spring to become one of the top prep hitters available. He’s a Mississippi State commit from a smaller high school in Mississippi, but his skillset is turning heads nationwide. Parker is a left-handed hitting infielder (listed as SS, though some think he may end up at 2B/3B) with an extremely advanced hit tool. In scouting terms, he’s viewed as “alongside Willits as the highest probability hitter” in the prep class. That means scouts are confident he’s going to hit for average due to his feel for contact and strike zone. He has roughly average raw power and speed – nothing jumps off the page tool-wise, which is perhaps why he was under the radar early. But he does everything well and just seems to barrel baseballs consistently. Defensively, as mentioned, he’s capable in the infield but might not have the pure range for shortstop long-term; a move to second base or third base is possible, where his solid arm and actions will play fine. Parker is also one of the older prep players (18.8 at draft), so a bit more physically mature. The upside question: does he project as a star or just a very good hitter? Some say he doesn’t have a “huge upside” ceiling, but if a year from now he’s viewed as a plus-plus hitter who can hit .300 with 15-20 homers, no one will be concerned about the lack of an elite single tool. Essentially, Parker’s profile is that of a potential pure hitter – the kind of guy who might win batting titles if everything clicks.

• Draft Projection & Team Fit: Parker has risen into mid-first-round territory. A month or two ago he was seen as a late first or even second rounder, but now many expect him to go around Picks 10-15. In McDaniel’s mock, he actually went #11 to the Oakland A’s. The A’s were said to like him a lot, and he’d fit their type as a high-contact bat to rebuild the system. It’s noted that Parker “should go somewhere between No.5 and No.15 on draft day” with many teams outside the top 5 seeing him as the next-best prep hitter. If Oakland doesn’t snag him at 11, teams like Milwaukee, Boston or Chicago (Cubs) in the teens could all be interested – those clubs often value hit tool highly. For example, the Red Sox might see some of Andrew Benintendi’s skillset in Parker (not a direct comp, but in terms of hitterish instincts). If he goes to Oakland, their system desperately needs bats so he’d instantly be a top-3 prospect for them. His timeline would be the usual high school route (4-5 years to majors). Wherever he lands, Parker is the kind of player that a front office may target if they want a safe bet to be a big leaguer, even if not a franchise superstar. And a small note: being from Mississippi, if he got to play for, say, the Braves or another southern team one day, there could be a regional fan boost – but that’s far ahead speculation.
• Card Market & NIL Autos: Parker is still relatively new to the hobby conversation. Until his name started popping up as a likely first-rounder, not many collectors knew about him. Thus, he probably has very few if any existing cards – maybe some Perfect Game showcase mentions, but likely no autos floating around yet. This means he’s a blank slate in terms of card value; his worth will be established once he’s in Bowman products. Collectors do love their high school hitters, though often the ones with gaudy power or speed get more initial love. Parker might be a bit underappreciated at first because he’s more of a pure hitter than a tools guy. This can be an opportunity: guys like hit-first infielders sometimes explode in value a year or two later when they tear up A-ball (think Wander Franco – everyone knew he could hit, power was a question, then he torched the minors and became the hobby’s top prospect card… Parker of course is not Franco-level, but it illustrates how a hit tool can carry a prospect’s hobby profile once results back it up). If you’re ahead of the curve, you might scoop Parker’s autos at decent prices if others overlook him for flashier picks.
• Investment Outlook: Short-term – HOLD. On draft night, unless you’re an A’s fan or similar, Parker likely won’t be the big story. His cards won’t be out until later anyway. There’s no rush; keep an eye on where he goes. If it’s Oakland, the lack of market excitement around the A’s could keep his prices low initially – again, not a bad thing if you plan to buy. Long-term – BUY (sleeper). I consider Parker one of the sneaky good long-term plays. The reason is simple: hitters hit. If he indeed is one of the best pure hitters in this class, it will show in pro ball stats pretty quickly. At that point, collectors will catch on and say “why didn’t I grab this guy’s cards earlier?” Right now, because he’s not projected to mash 30 homers or steal 40 bases, you might get his autos cheaper than, say, Eli Willits or other first-round preps. But in three years, if Parker is hitting .320 in Double-A, rest assured his cards will be on want lists. There is always the chance his bat doesn’t live up to the hype – hitting is a hard skill to project – but given the widespread confidence in his ability, I like the odds. Thus, for long-term prospecting, Parker is a Buy in my book: acquire some key parallels or autos when they release and be patient. He might not be a quick flip, but he could yield a nice payoff when he’s on the cusp of the majors as a batting title contender type.

Later-Round Sleepers and Under-the-Radar Prospects

While the first round gets all the attention, seasoned collectors know that star players often emerge from later rounds. The 2016 draft, for example, saw Pete Alonso and Bo Bichette taken in the 2nd round, and studs like Shane Bieber, Corbin Burnes, and Zac Gallen between picks 83-122. The 2025 class likewise has depth beyond the top names – here are a few potential Day 2 gems to watch, who could become hobby targets down the line:

• Gavin Fien, 3B, Great Oak HS (CA): A power-hitting prep corner infielder touted as perhaps “the most raw power in the whole draft”. Fien is a Texas commit who didn’t have the consistent spring to go in round 1, but the power is very real. If he refines his hit tool, he could be a middle-order masher stolen in the 2nd round. For card investors, he’s a classic boom-or-bust power prospect to stash if available cheap.
• Slater de Brun, OF, Summit HS (OR): An electrifying athlete and Vanderbilt commit. Slater is a plus-plus runner with a leadoff hitter profile. Kiley McDaniel noted “De Brun has some Corbin Carroll elements to his game” – that should perk ears! He might not be a first-round pick due to rawness, but whoever drafts him (maybe late 1st or 2nd round) gets a speedster with upside. His cards could be sneaky if he develops power to go with the speed.
• Xavier Neyens, 3B/OF, Mount Vernon HS (WA): A physical prep bat known for big raw power. McDaniel mentioned “Neyens may have the most raw power in the whole draft” (even more than Fien, apparently). He’s a bit older for class and might slide to round 2, but the power could carry him to prospect stardom if he hits enough. Think of players like Jo Adell or Jerar Encarnacion who had huge power tools coming out of high school – high risk, high reward in cards.
• Kayson Cunningham, SS/2B, Johnson HS (TX): At 5’9”, Cunningham is often overlooked physically, but scouts say he “may be the best pure hitter in the whole draft”. He’s young (reclassified to be in 2025 draft) and just rakes. Because of his size and lack of plus power, he might go late first or early second round. But he’s the type who could hit .330 in the minors and force everyone to take notice. If he’s undervalued on draft day, savvy collectors might scoop his autos as a pure hit tool bet.
• College performers slipping through: A couple of college names to watch on Day 2: Cam Cannarella, a CF from Clemson who hit .400 as a freshman; Gavin Kilen, a SS at Tennessee with solid all-around game; Ike Irish, a catcher from Auburn with a rising bat. These guys might not go round 1, but they have the polish to surge in prospect rankings quickly. Often a college hitter taken in the 2nd–3rd round who then rakes in A-ball becomes a hobby favorite within a year.

These are just a few examples – the class is deep, and no doubt some 10th-round pick will become a star we couldn’t foresee. The key for collectors is to do your homework on later picks from your favorite team or from teams known to develop talent well (Dodgers, Rays, Guardians, etc.). Picking up a few autos of an overlooked prospect can pay off big if that player breaks out.

Lastly, remember that opportunity and fit can shape a prospect’s path. A player drafted by a team with a clear need and good development system might blossom more than if he went elsewhere. We see that with organizations like the Dodgers routinely turning mid-round picks into gold. So when those later rounds come, keep an eye on not just the player’s raw tools, but also the team that drafts him and their track record.

Top 2025 Draft Prospects – Draft Range, Team Fits & Card Investment Grades

The table below summarizes 20 of the top draft prospects (including those covered above and a few additional names), along with their projected draft range, a possible team fit, and a quick card investment grade for collectors. Grades: Buy = promising investment; Hold = monitor or hold if already owned; Sell = consider selling into hype (short-term) or avoiding long-term.

Notes: The “Likely Team Fit” is based on mock drafts and team tendencies, but the draft is unpredictable – a team listed is just one of several possibilities. Investment grades are generalized; always consider your own risk tolerance and the prices you’re paying. Buy doesn’t mean empty your wallet, and Sell doesn’t mean the player isn’t good – it’s purely about card value trends and upside.

2025 MLB Draft Conclusion

The 2025 MLB Draft class offers a compelling mix of high-ceiling high schoolers and refined collegians, and it’s set against a changing hobby landscape where players have cards earlier than ever. For collectors, this means more opportunities – and more decisions – in prospecting. To recap some actionable insights:

• Diversify your prospect picks: Don’t just chase the #1 pick. History shows future All-Stars can come from anywhere in the draft. Consider snagging a few later-round autos (like the sleepers mentioned) in addition to the top names.
• Watch the NIL card market: If you’re holding NIL autos of these players (Leaf, Panini, etc.), time your moves. Draft week can be a sweet spot to sell high on hype for some, while others might be worth holding into their pro careers. Also, be mindful that once Bowman 1st autos release, they often overtake NIL cards in desirability – that could be a time to trade up.
• Short-term vs Long-term flips: Players with huge power (LaViolette, Neyens) or hype (Holliday) may yield quick flip profits around draft and Bowman release. Meanwhile, players with more subtle games (Willits, Parker) might reward patience – their value could climb as they prove themselves in minors.
• Team context matters: When a player is drafted, factor in their new team. A prospect going to a strong development org (e.g. Dodgers, Rays) might be worth an extra look (they could maximize that talent). Conversely, a top prospect going to a struggling org might face headwinds (both in development and hobby interest).

Above all, have fun with it. Prospecting is a volatile game – there will be surprises, busts, and breakouts. Stay informed with sites like MLB Pipeline, Baseball America, and prospect Twitter for the latest on these players as they begin their pro journeys. By understanding both their on-field potential and the hobby trends (the NIL era impact, Bowman release cycles, etc.), you’ll be better equipped to make savvy decisions in your collection or investment strategy.

The MLB Draft is a time of hope – for teams, players, and collectors alike. So enjoy the excitement of draft day, and may your prospect investments turn into the next big thing!