The shortstop position has evolved into one of fantasy baseball’s most profound and most dynamic. No longer just defense-first players, today’s shortstops are elite multi-category contributors—offering a potent mix of power, speed, and run production. Whether you’re targeting a cornerstone bat in the early rounds or hunting for upside later in the draft, there’s no shortage of talent to choose from.

In this guide, we break down the top shortstop options for 2025, analyze their 2024 performances, and give you a clear read on upside, risk, and fantasy value. From superstars like Bobby Witt Jr. and Elly De La Cruz to breakout candidates like Ezequiel Tovar and Masyn Winn, you’ll find detailed insights to help you dominate your draft.

Let’s dive in and find the right SS to anchor your squad this season.

Top-Tier Shortstops (Early Round Picks)

1. Bobby Witt Jr. (Royals)

• 2024 Stats: .332 AVG | 32 HR | 31 SB | Gold Glove & Silver Slugger
• Analysis: Witt Jr. is arguably the No. 1 overall fantasy pick this year. He delivers elite power-speed upside, contributes in all five categories, and is still improving. His plate discipline improved dramatically in 2024, and his speed on the basepaths keeps him safe even during minor slumps. Draft with confidence.

2. Elly De La Cruz (Reds)

• 2024 Stats: 25 HR | 67 SB | 105 R
• Analysis: Elly’s speed is game-breaking, leading the league in steals and offering 20+ HR power. The downside? A high strikeout rate and volatility—he can disappear for weeks at a time. If you’re in roto or points leagues where steals are scarce, his upside is worth the risk. He’s a cheat code on the basepaths.

3. Gunnar Henderson (Orioles)

• 2024 Stats: .281 AVG | 37 HR | 92 RBI | 118 R
• Analysis: One of the safest high-ceiling picks at SS. Henderson offers legitimate power and a great approach at the plate. With Baltimore’s stacked lineup around him, he’s poised for another monster year. If you’re not chasing steals and want HR + R + AVG, he’s a strong second-round pick.

4. Francisco Lindor (Mets)

• 2024 Stats (Est.): ~30 HR | ~29 SB (just shy of 30/30)
• Analysis: Consistency is Lindor’s game. Even as he ages into his 30s, he still contributes across the board. The Mets’ upgraded lineup gives him more run and RBI chances. He’s a value in round 3–4, with fewer ups and downs than most SS options.

5. Mookie Betts (Dodgers, SS/2B/OF eligibility)

• 2024 Stats: Balanced, multi-category contributor (specifics not fully available)
• Analysis: Betts offers elite positional flexibility. Even if he doesn’t run as much anymore, he’ll give you 25–30 HR and 100+ R in one of the best offenses in baseball. Being SS-eligible gives him a big edge. Draft early for flexibility and stability.

Mid-Tier Shortstops (Rounds 5–10)

6. Trea Turner (Phillies)

• 2024 Stats: Missed time but still contributed across the board
• Analysis: Turner still has the tools to go 20 HR / 30 SB, but age and injury risk are becoming real concerns. If he falls past round 5, he’s a great value. Just be cautious of any lingering injury updates before draft day.

7. Corey Seager (Rangers)

• 2024 Stats: Power-heavy (specifics not listed), injury concerns
• Analysis: Seager is elite when healthy—he could lead all SS in HR and RBI—but he’s a durability risk. Target him if you’ve already drafted speed elsewhere, as he offers very little in steals. Great in points leagues or OBP formats.

8. CJ Abrams (Nationals)

• 2024 Stats: Est. 18–20 HR | 40+ SB potential
• Analysis: Abrams is a breakout candidate with elite speed and improving pop. If he can keep his OBP up and hit near the top of the order, he could approach a 20 HR / 40 SB season. A great mid-round pick in roto leagues.

9. Oneil Cruz (Pirates)

• 2024 Stats: Missed significant time in 2023, bounced back with raw power
• Analysis: One of the most physically gifted players in MLB. Cruz has 30 HR / 20 SB upside but comes with serious strikeout and average concerns. A great high-upside play if you need power late. Ideal for managers who like to swing for the fences.

Sleeper & Breakout Picks (Late Rounds)

10. Ezequiel Tovar (Rockies)

• 2024 Stats: .269 AVG | 26 HR | 45 2B | 78 RBI | Gold Glove
• Analysis: Playing half his games in Coors Field helps his floor. Tovar’s power jumped in 2024, and he’s a sneaky source of runs and doubles. If he improves walk rate, he could push toward top-10 status. Nice late-round value or MI (middle infielder) spot.

11. Masyn Winn (Cardinals)

• 2024 Stats: Under-the-radar rookie season with strong speed and defense
• Analysis: Winn’s glove keeps him in the lineup, and his speed could quietly lead to 20+ stolen bases. If he improves his approach at the plate, he could be a surprise leadoff bat for the Cards. Worth a flier in deep leagues or as a late steal source.

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