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MLB Pipeline Names Samuel Basallo Top Catching Prospect Entering 2025
MLB Pipeline has tabbed Baltimore Orioles catching prospect Samuel Basallo the best at his position entering the 2025 season. The 20-year-old received his first extended look at Double-A ball last summer and performed at an elite level, posting a .289/.355/.465 line. He hit 22 doubles, 16 home runs, and swiped nine bags. He then earned a late-season promotion to Triple-A Norfolk, holding a modest .222/.267/.370 line across a short 21-game stint. In 2023, he spent most of the summer in the lower levels of the Baltimore pipeline and posted a stellar .313/.402/.551 line. Even though Adley Rutschman blocks Basallo from catching duties, he could still have a path to a 2025 debut, as he did see several starts at first base last summer. Fantasy managers should keep a close eye on his development during spring training and through the early part of the season, as he will likely open the regular season at Triple-A. A second-half promotion is not out of the question if he performs well with the Norfolk Tide. He is a top asset in dynasty formats but is not worth drafting in standard redraft leagues for the time being.
Source: MLB Pipeline
Source: MLB Pipeline
