NEW YORK, NY – July 11, 2025 – As the MLB season approaches the halfway point, the races for Rookie of the Year in both the American and National Leagues are showcasing an exciting mix of immediate impact and burgeoning potential. While the AL features a tight contest at the top, the NL has seen a relatively late arrival quickly ascend to favorite status.
American League Rookie of the Year: Wilson’s Lead Challenged by Rising Smith
The American League Rookie of the Year award is proving to be a compelling battle between two highly touted talents, with a recent injury adding an unexpected wrinkle.
- Jacob Wilson (SS, Oakland Athletics): The Athletics’ shortstop has been a revelation in his rookie campaign. Wilson leads qualified AL rookies in OPS and has been a consistent offensive force, earning him the starting shortstop role for the AL in the upcoming All-Star Game. He was hitting around .335 with 9 home runs and 42 RBIs before a recent scare. Wilson was hit on the hand on July 8th, but X-rays were negative for a fracture. While he’s currently day-to-day with soreness, his status for the All-Star Game is uncertain. His ability to quickly return to form will be crucial in maintaining his lead.
- Cameron Smith (OF, Houston Astros): The Astros’ outfielder has been rapidly gaining ground and is now neck-and-neck with Wilson in the odds. Smith has found his footing at the big-league level, currently batting .286 with 7 home runs, 39 RBIs, and a .779 OPS through 79 games. His impressive offensive production and recent surge have seen him become a co-favorite in some betting markets, offering a dynamic presence in the Astros’ lineup.
- Nick Kurtz (1B, Oakland Athletics): Wilson’s teammate, Nick Kurtz, has been on a power surge since returning from the injured list. He has showcased impressive pop, with 13 home runs in just 52 games, and his odds have dramatically shortened, making him a formidable dark horse.
- Other Contenders: Carlos Narváez (C, Boston Red Sox) has quietly put together a strong season, tying Wilson for the most doubles among AL rookies (15). Shane Smith (RHP, Chicago White Sox) has been impressive on the mound with a 2.37 ERA, while Jasson Domínguez (LF, New York Yankees) continues his comeback from injury and has shown flashes of his immense potential.
National League Rookie of the Year: Misiorowski Dominates Post-Debut
The National League Rookie of the Year race has seen a dramatic shift, with a flamethrowing pitcher making a powerful, albeit late, entry.
- Jacob Misiorowski (RHP, Milwaukee Brewers): The Brewers’ hard-throwing right-hander has stormed onto the scene since making his MLB debut on June 12th. Despite the later start to his season, Misiorowski has quickly established himself as the NL favorite. Through 5 starts, he boasts a 4-1 record with a 2.81 ERA, a 0.90 WHIP, and 33 strikeouts in 25.2 innings. He’s allowed one run or fewer in several dominant outings, including a recent 12-strikeout performance, even outdueling last year’s NL ROY, Paul Skenes. History might not be on his side for a June debutant winning the award, but his raw talent and immediate impact are undeniable.
- Drake Baldwin (C, Atlanta Braves): A consistent performer for the Braves, Drake Baldwin has been near the top of the race for much of the season. He’s providing solid offensive production from the catcher position, currently batting .276 with 11 home runs and 31 RBIs through 48 games. He remains a strong contender.
- Agustín Ramírez (C/DH, Miami Marlins): The Marlins catcher has also been swinging a strong bat, showcasing power with 14 home runs and 40 RBIs while hitting .249 through 67 games. Ramírez remains a key candidate in this evolving race, experiencing the typical highs and lows of a rookie season.
- Other Contenders: Hye-Seong Kim (IF/OF, Los Angeles Dodgers) has been used strategically by the Dodgers, showing a strong batting average, while Dylan Crews (OF, Washington Nationals), despite early season hype, could still make a run with a strong second half. Chad Patrick (RHP, Milwaukee Brewers) is another pitching rookie to watch, leading NL rookies in strikeouts and innings pitched among qualified pitchers.
The second half of the 2025 MLB season promises intense competition as these young stars continue to develop and vie for one of baseball’s most prestigious individual honors.