12 Rule 5 Draft Prospects to Watch in 2025
With the Rule 5 Draft just around the corner, baseball fans and teams alike are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to acquire talented players who might otherwise be overlooked. Here's a breakdown of 12 prospects who could be worth keeping an eye on, along with insights into their strengths and potential roles.
Cameron Cauley, SS/OF/2B (Rangers)
Cauley stands out for his speed and defensive versatility, which are crucial for offensive players in the Rule 5 Draft. His 87% stolen-base success rate and 28 stolen bases while hitting 15 homers in Double-A last year showcase his all-around talent. Additionally, his ability to play multiple positions in the infield and outfield makes him a versatile asset.Liam Cerda, Catcher (Marlins)
Cerda's power-hitting potential is evident from his 18 home runs in 93 Double-A games last year. Despite the challenges faced by catchers in the Rule 5 Draft, Cerda's right-handed power, good walk rates, and solid defensive skills behind the plate make him a prospect worth considering.Childers, RHP (Brewers)
Childers, the son of big leaguers, impressed with his free-agent signing by the Brewers in 2023. He split the 2025 season between the top two levels of the minors, showcasing a 99 mph fastball and breaking stuff that missed bats. His ability to strike out batters and hold them to a low batting average makes him a strong candidate for the Rule 5 Draft.McGarry, RHP (Phillies)
McGarry's premium stuff, including a 94 mph fastball and a 52% miss rate on his slider, makes him a prospect to watch. The Phillies' decision to move him back into a starting role this year indicates their confidence in his potential. Despite a high walk rate, his overall performance and command improvements make him a valuable asset.Hayden Mullins, LHP (Red Sox)
Mullins, a left-handed pitcher, demonstrated his ability to strike out batters with a 30% swing-and-miss rate on his 91-94 mph fastball and low-80s two-plane slider. His 13.8% walk rate at Double-A might be a concern, but his overall performance and potential as a starting pitcher make him a prospect to watch.Samy Natera Jr., LHP (Angels)
Natera Jr.'s fastball-heavy approach, with a 78.6% usage rate, contributed to a 13.4 K/9 rate in 2025. His performance against left-handed hitters, with a .160 BAA and .559 OPS-against, could be a significant advantage for teams. His overall performance and potential as a left-handed pitcher make him a prospect to watch.RJ Petit, RHP (Tigers)
Petit, a 6-foot-8 right-hander, ended the 2024 season with impressive stats, including a 2.44 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and 79 strikeouts in 66 1/3 innings. His reliance on a 83-85 mph slider with late break and a mid-90s fastball make him a prospect with a high ceiling.Rodríguez, RHP (Giants)
Rodríguez's changeup is a standout feature, with a 67.3% whiff rate at Triple-A last year. His unique delivery, huge extension, and similar arm speed to his 95-97 mph sinker make him a prospect worth considering. His short slider and high walk rate further contribute to his overall potential.Alimber Santa, RHP (Astros)
Santa, a 2025 Futures Game participant, made a successful transition from starting to relieving in mid-2024. His 1.26 ERA and performance at Triple-A at age 22 showcase his potential. Despite a high walk rate, his mid-90s heater, changeup, and breaking pitches make him a prospect with a full repertoire.Watson, RHP (Giants)
Watson, a 6-foot-5 right-hander, had a successful season with Triple-A Sacramento, saving nine games and striking out 11.4 per nine. His fastball, which can touch 97 mph, and breaking stuff with a 40% miss rate in the PCL make him a prospect with a high ceiling.Susac, Catcher (Orioles)
Susac's offensive performance in the Triple-A Pacific Coast League in 2025, with career highs in home runs and OPS, showcases his potential. His proximity to the big leagues and decent catch-and-throw skills make him a rare backstop prospect who could stick in the big leagues.McGarry, RHP (Phillies)
(Note: This is a repeat of the previous McGarry entry, likely an error in the original text. Please refer to the previous entry for more details.)
