The Los Angeles Dodgers are one of the most successful and innovative teams in Major League Baseball (MLB), consistently contending for championships and developing top-tier talent. The team has a rich history of player development, and their farm system is always loaded with high-potential prospects. For the 2025 season, several of the Dodgers’ prospects could make their mark in the majors. This article will explore some of the breakout prospects that fans should keep an eye on as the new season unfolds.
1. Diego Cartaya (Catcher)
Age: 22
Position: Catcher
MLB ETA: 2025
Diego Cartaya has long been considered one of the best catching prospects in baseball, and 2025 could be the year he makes his long-awaited MLB debut. A highly touted international signing out of Venezuela, Cartaya is a switch-hitting catcher with impressive power and plate discipline. Over the past few seasons, he has refined his game in the Dodgers’ minor league system, posting impressive numbers in both Double-A and Triple-A.
Cartaya’s calling card is his bat. He has a compact swing and the ability to drive the ball to all fields. His power has continued to develop, and he could provide the Dodgers with a legitimate middle-of-the-order bat. Beyond his offensive tools, Cartaya is also an advanced defender behind the plate, showcasing strong receiving skills, a quick release on throws, and the ability to manage a pitching staff.
With Will Smith solidified as the Dodgers’ everyday catcher, Cartaya could start the season as a backup or as a part-time player, giving him an opportunity to learn at the big-league level. Depending on how quickly he adjusts to MLB pitching, Cartaya could force his way into a more prominent role, especially if the Dodgers look to give Smith more rest or shift him to first base or DH on occasion.
2. Bobby Miller (Right-Handed Pitcher)
Age: 24
Position: Starting Pitcher
MLB ETA: 2025
Bobby Miller is a highly skilled right-handed pitcher whose fastball and slider combination have been praised as one of the best in the Dodgers’ system. His electric stuff, combined with solid command, gives him the potential to be a top-of-the-rotation starter. Miller made his MLB debut in 2023, and after a brief stint, he is expected to compete for a full-time rotation spot in 2025.
Miller is a physical specimen, standing 6’5″ and weighing 225 pounds, with a fastball that routinely touches 100 mph. His slider is an advanced pitch, and he can generate swings and misses with both it and his curveball. His changeup, though a work in progress, has also shown flashes of being a serviceable pitch against left-handed batters.
The Dodgers have a strong track record of developing pitchers, and Miller could be a key contributor in 2025. His high strikeout potential and ability to dominate opposing lineups could make him an invaluable asset in the rotation, especially as the team deals with injuries or workload management issues for its more established starters. If Miller continues to refine his control and consistency, he could emerge as a front-line starter for the Dodgers in the years to come.
3. Miguel Vargas (Second Base/Third Base)
Age: 24
Position: Infield (Second Base, Third Base)
MLB ETA: 2025
Miguel Vargas is an advanced hitter with excellent plate discipline, making him a candidate for a breakout year in 2025. He debuted in the major leagues in 2022 and spent time in the minors as a third baseman and second baseman. Vargas’ ability to control the strike zone is his best asset, and he combines that with the ability to hit for both average and power. His approach at the plate is mature, and he consistently makes solid contact.
Vargas’ versatility in the infield is another reason the Dodgers are excited about his future. Although his natural position is third base, he can play second base and even some outfield if needed. This gives the Dodgers flexibility as they look to balance their roster and find consistent playing time for their top prospects. Vargas has the potential to become a key contributor in 2025, providing depth and offensive production in the infield.
In addition to his offensive tools, Vargas is an average defender at third base and second base, with an ability to make quick decisions and be reliable with the glove. His bat could be a potential catalyst for the Dodgers’ lineup, especially if injuries or rest days are needed for veteran players like Max Muncy or Justin Turner.
4. James Outman (Outfielder)
Age: 26
Position: Outfield (Center Field, Left Field)
MLB ETA: 2025
James Outman is an outfielder who has earned significant attention for his breakout seasons in the minors. Known for his ability to hit for both power and average, Outman’s combination of speed and defense could make him a key piece for the Dodgers in 2025. His athleticism and raw tools give him the potential to be a true five-tool player in the majors.
Outman spent time in the big leagues in 2022, showing flashes of his power and speed. However, he still has some areas to refine, particularly in terms of pitch recognition and consistency at the plate. In 2023 and 2024, Outman continued to develop in Triple-A, improving his approach and making adjustments. His outfield defense is considered above average, and his ability to cover ground in center field or left field makes him an ideal option for the Dodgers’ outfield rotation.
With the Dodgers in need of additional outfield depth, Outman could find himself as a regular contributor in 2025, especially if the team looks to rest established players like Mookie Betts or Chris Taylor. His versatility in the outfield allows him to provide flexibility, and if his bat continues to progress, Outman could earn an everyday role in the outfield.
5. Eddys Leonard (Shortstop)
Age: 23
Position: Shortstop
MLB ETA: 2025
Eddys Leonard is an under-the-radar prospect for the Dodgers who has the potential to surprise in 2025. A switch-hitting shortstop with a quick bat and strong defensive abilities, Leonard’s all-around game makes him an intriguing option as a future regular at the position. He has made considerable strides over the past few seasons, and his performance at Double-A suggests that he is ready for a major-league look.
Leonard’s defense is perhaps his most polished tool, as he is known for his smooth actions, range, and quick release on throws. He projects to be an above-average defender at shortstop, which could allow the Dodgers to use him in a variety of roles if needed. Offensively, Leonard is a contact hitter with a strong approach, though he still needs to develop more power to be considered a consistent threat at the plate.
While Leonard may not be ready to assume an everyday role at shortstop right away, he could be a valuable utility player for the Dodgers in 2025. His ability to play multiple infield positions and provide quality defense makes him an excellent candidate for a breakout season, especially if injuries strike the Dodgers’ veteran infielders.
6. Kyle Hurt (Right-Handed Pitcher)
Age: 24
Position: Starting Pitcher/Reliever
MLB ETA: 2025
Kyle Hurt is another pitcher in the Dodgers’ system with breakout potential. A right-hander with a plus fastball and devastating slider, Hurt’s ability to generate strikeouts makes him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 season. He has spent time in both starting and relief roles, giving the Dodgers flexibility in how they use him.
Hurt has a unique combination of pitch speed and movement, particularly with his slider, which has been described as a wipeout pitch. His fastball sits in the mid-90s, and he can dial it up even higher when necessary. Though he has dealt with control issues at times, his stuff is so electric that he can often get by with raw talent. If he can develop better command and improve his consistency, Hurt could become an impactful piece for the Dodgers in 2025.
With injuries and workload management often affecting pitching rotations, Hurt’s ability to pitch in multiple roles could make him a valuable asset. Whether as a starter or a late-inning reliever, his strikeout potential could be the key to a breakout season in 2025.
