It’s awards season in baseball, and you know what that means — time to celebrate the rookies who took the league by storm! This year’s Rookie of the Year finalists gave us plenty to talk about, from jaw-dropping home runs to smooth defense and even a few pitching gems that made hitters look silly. These guys didn’t just show up — they made their mark. Let’s dive in and check out the young stars who could take home the crown (via CBS Sports).
American League FinalistsNick Kurtz — 1B, Oakland Athletics
Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz (16) jogs towards the dugout against the Houston Astros in the sixth inning at Sutter Health Park. Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images.290/.383/.619 (173 OPS+)26 doubles, 2 triples, 36 home runs86 RBI, 90 runs5.4 WAR
Nick Kurtz didn’t just arrive in the big leagues — he announced himself. The guy hit moonshots for breakfast, led all rookies in homers, and even had a ridiculous 6-for-6, four-homer game. He’s the kind of player who makes every at-bat must-watch TV.
Jacob Wilson — SS, Oakland Athletics
Athletics shortstop Jacob Wilson (5) jogs towards the dugout against the Houston Astros in the seventh inning at Sutter Health Park. Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images.311/.355/.444 (121 OPS+)26 doubles, 13 home runs63 RBI, 62 runs2.9 WAR
While his teammate Kurtz mashed, Jacob Wilson quietly became one of the most reliable hitters in baseball. He’s a throwback kind of guy — pure contact, great eye, and rarely misses the ball. If you love players who make hitting look effortless, Wilson’s your man.
Roman Anthony — OF, Boston Red Sox
Boston Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony (19) stands in the dugout before the game between the Baltimore Orioles and the Boston Red Sox at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Credit: James A. Pittman-Imagn Images.292/.396/.463 (140 OPS+)18 doubles, 1 triple, 8 home runs32 RBI, 48 runs, 4 steals3.1 WAR
Roman Anthony’s first year in Boston showed why fans are so hyped about him. He’s got a mature approach at the plate — takes his walks, hits to all fields, and looks totally comfortable against big-league pitching. The power’s still growing, but the talent’s already shining through.
National League FinalistsDrake Baldwin — C, Atlanta Braves
Atlanta Braves catcher Drake Baldwin (30) strikes out while batting against the Washington Nationals during the seventh inning at Truist Park. Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images.274/.341/.469 (126 OPS+)18 doubles, 19 home runs80 RBI, 56 runs3.3 WAR
Rookie catchers don’t usually rake like this, but Baldwin isn’t your usual rookie. He brought real pop behind the plate and gave Atlanta another dangerous bat in the lineup. Sure, there were a few growing pains defensively — but when you hit like that, people notice.
Caleb Durbin — INF, Milwaukee Brewers
Milwaukee Brewers third baseman Caleb Durbin (21) reacts at second after hitting a double against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the seventh inning during game three of the NLCS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Dodger Stadium. Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images.256/.334/.387 (101 OPS+)25 doubles, 11 home runs53 RBI, 60 runs, 18 steals2.9 WAR
Durbin’s rookie year was all about versatility and hustle. He hit, he ran, he played solid defense, and he rarely looked overmatched. Not the flashiest guy, but exactly the kind of player every winning team needs — steady, smart, and always in the middle of the action.
Cade Horton — SP, Chicago Cubs
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Cade Horton (22) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images11–4 record, 2.67 ERA (144 ERA+)1.09 WHIP, 97 strikeouts in 118 innings23 starts
Cade Horton looked every bit like a future ace in his rookie season. Calm, confident, and unflappable, he gave the Cubs quality starts all year long and handled pressure like a vet. If this is just the beginning, Chicago’s got something special brewing.
Conclusion
No matter who takes home the Rookie of the Year award, one thing’s clear — the future of baseball is in great hands. These young stars have already made a name for themselves, and if their rookie seasons are any clue, we’re just getting started. Here’s to the next generation of big-league talent making the game even more fun to watch!