Introduction to the 26-and-Under Power Rankings
Yahoo Sports’ 26-and-under power rankings offer a fresh perspective on the talent within each MLB organization. Unlike traditional farm system rankings that focus solely on prospects, these rankings incorporate both rookie-eligible players and those already contributing at the big-league level. This approach provides a more comprehensive picture of each team’s young core, giving more weight to productive young big leaguers and considering prospects who are on the cusp of reaching the majors.
The Ranking Methodology
To compile these rankings, each MLB organization is evaluated in four categories:
- Young MLB Hitters (0-10): This includes 26-and-under position players and rookie-eligible hitters projected to be on Opening Day rosters.
- Young MLB Pitchers (0-10): This covers 26-and-under pitchers and rookie-eligible pitchers projected to be on Opening Day rosters.
- Prospect Hitters (0-5): These are prospect-eligible position players projected to reach MLB in the next one to two years.
- Prospect Pitchers (0-5): These are prospect-eligible pitchers projected to reach MLB in the next one to two years.
Each category is scored, and the total score is used to rank the teams from weakest to strongest in terms of their 26-and-under talent base.
Teams 20-16: A Closer Look
20. Minnesota Twins (Total Score: 14/30)
The Minnesota Twins are coming off a disappointing 2024 season, and they are banking on their young talent to turn things around. Young MLB Hitters (5/10) include names like Royce Lewis, Edouard Julien, Brooks Lee, and Austin Martin. Lewis, a former top prospect, needs a breakout year after struggling with injuries and performance. Julien, another highly touted player, also needs to improve his consistency at the plate. Among the Young MLB Pitchers (2/10), Simeon Woods-Richardson showed promise in his first full big-league season, but there is still room for growth. The Prospect Hitters (4/5) are led by Emmanuel Rodriguez and Walker Jenkins, both of whom have shown significant potential. The Prospect Pitchers (3/5) include Zebby Matthews and David Festa, who could contribute in the near future.
19. Kansas City Royals (Total Score: 14/30)
The Kansas City Royals have a significant advantage with Bobby Witt Jr. (9/10). Witt, a 25-year-old shortstop, was one of the best players in MLB last season, leading the Royals to their first playoff appearance in nearly a decade. However, beyond Witt, the Young MLB Hitters (9/10) include players like Nelson Velazquez and MJ Melendez, who have yet to reach their full potential. The Young MLB Pitchers (1/10) section is thin, with Angel Zerpa being the only notable name. The Prospect Hitters (3/5) are led by Jac Caglianone, a two-way star with immense power, and Carter Jensen, a future everyday catcher. The Prospect Pitchers (1/5) are less promising, with Ben Kudrna and Noah Cameron being the top prospects.
18. Oakland Athletics (Total Score: 15/30)
The Oakland Athletics have made significant strides in developing their young talent. Young MLB Hitters (6/10) include Lawrence Butler, a top-10 player in MLB by WAR and wRC+ in the second half of 2024, and Zack Gelof, who will look to bounce back from a rough sophomore year. Young MLB Pitchers (4/10) are headlined by Mason Miller, who emerged as a premier reliever with a 104 mph fastball. The Prospect Hitters (3/5) are led by Nick Kurtz, a powerful first baseman, and Colby Thomas, an athletic outfielder. The Prospect Pitchers (2/5) include J.T. Ginn, a potential rotation piece, and Luis Morales, who has high ceiling but needs to improve his command.
17. Chicago Cubs (Total Score: 15/30)
The Chicago Cubs are blending veteran stars with a core of young talent. Young MLB Hitters (5/10) include Pete Crow-Armstrong, a center-fielder with exceptional defense, and Miguel Amaya, a catcher who made strides offensively. Young MLB Pitchers (4/10) are led by Porter Hodge, who had a strong rookie season, and Ben Brown, a solid rotation depth. The Prospect Hitters (4/5) are a talented group, with Kevin Alcántara and Owen Caissie standing out for their raw power. The Prospect Pitchers (2/5) include Cade Horton, a high-potential arm, and Brandon Birdsell, an advanced strike-thrower.
16. St. Louis Cardinals (Total Score: 15/30)
The St. Louis Cardinals are in a bridge year, with a focus on evaluating their young talent. Young MLB Hitters (7/10) include Masyn Winn, an excellent defensive shortstop, and relay bats like Alec Burleson and Nolan Gorman. Young MLB Pitchers (3/10) are headlined by Andre Pallante, a groundball machine, and Matthew Liberatore, a high-profile prospect who could settle into a reliever role. The Prospect Hitters (2/5) include JJ Wetherholt and Jimmy Crooks, both of whom show promise. The Prospect Pitchers (3/5) are led by Quinn Matthews, a breakout star in 2024, and Tink Hence, a hard-throwing prospect.
Conclusion
These rankings highlight the importance of a balanced approach to developing young talent. Teams like the Twins and Royals are counting on their young cores to turn around recent struggles, while the Athletics, Cubs, and Cardinals are leveraging a mix of established young players and promising prospects. As the season approaches, the performance of these 26-and-under players will be crucial in determining the success of their respective organizations.
