The Los Angeles Dodgers are known for their consistent ability to develop young talent. From Clayton Kershaw to Corey Seager to Julio Urías, the team has a track record of producing star players from its farm system. With the Dodgers continually mixing established veterans with emerging prospects, the 2025 season could be a prime opportunity for several young players to make a name for themselves. Here are five young players who could break out for the Dodgers in 2025, along with a detailed analysis of their potential contributions.
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1. Diego Cartaya (Catcher)
Age in 2025: 23
Why He Could Break Out:
Diego Cartaya is widely regarded as one of the best catching prospects in all of baseball. Signed out of Venezuela in 2018, Cartaya has steadily climbed the minor league ranks, showing a rare combination of power, defensive acumen, and leadership skills. He projects as the Dodgers’ catcher of the future and could seize a significant role in 2025.
Cartaya’s offensive potential is tantalizing. In the minors, he displayed an advanced approach at the plate, consistently generating hard contact and driving the ball to all fields. If he can translate his power to the major leagues, he could become a middle-of-the-order threat. Defensively, his strong arm and pitch-framing skills make him a complete package behind the plate.
The Dodgers’ catching situation remains fluid, with Will Smith entrenched as the starter. However, if the team opts to transition Smith to a more flexible role to preserve his bat, Cartaya could see significant playing time, making him a candidate for a breakout season.
2025 Outlook: Cartaya could emerge as a Rookie of the Year candidate if given consistent at-bats, potentially hitting 15-20 home runs and providing stellar defense.
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2. Michael Busch (Infielder)
Age in 2025: 27
Why He Could Break Out:
Michael Busch has been knocking on the door of the big leagues for a while, and 2025 might finally be his year to shine. A first-round pick in 2019, Busch is a versatile infielder with an advanced bat. He has excelled in the minors, demonstrating a keen eye at the plate, excellent on-base skills, and solid power.
While his defensive home remains uncertain, Busch’s offensive upside could force the Dodgers’ hand. His ability to play multiple positions, including second base, first base, and even the outfield, gives him a path to regular playing time. With Max Muncy entering the twilight of his career, Busch could step into a similar role as a left-handed slugger capable of changing games with his bat.
2025 Outlook: Busch has the potential to be a high-OBP contributor with 20-25 home run power, fitting seamlessly into the Dodgers’ lineup.
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3. Bobby Miller (Right-Handed Pitcher)
Age in 2025: 26
Why He Could Break Out:
Bobby Miller already showed flashes of brilliance during his debut in 2023 and has the tools to become a frontline starter. Standing at 6’5” with an electric fastball that touches triple digits, Miller combines elite velocity with a devastating slider and an improving changeup. His presence on the mound is commanding, and his ability to generate strikeouts makes him a potential ace.
The key for Miller in 2025 will be consistency. While his raw stuff is among the best in the Dodgers’ system, refining his command and mastering his secondary pitches could elevate him to an All-Star level. With the Dodgers likely managing workloads for other pitchers such as Walker Buehler and Dustin May, Miller could establish himself as a workhorse in the rotation.
2025 Outlook: Miller could emerge as the Dodgers’ No. 2 starter, posting a sub-3.50 ERA with 180+ strikeouts over 160+ innings.
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4. Andy Pages (Outfielder)
Age in 2025: 24
Why He Could Break Out:
Andy Pages is a name that Dodgers fans should get familiar with, as the Cuban outfielder has one of the highest ceilings in the organization. Known for his prodigious power, Pages has consistently posted high slugging percentages in the minors, showing an ability to hit towering home runs. His approach at the plate is maturing, with improved plate discipline and a willingness to take walks.
Defensively, Pages profiles as a solid corner outfielder with a strong arm. With J.D. Martinez and other veterans potentially moving on, Pages could fill a corner outfield spot or even serve as a designated hitter. His power could be a game-changer for the Dodgers, particularly in high-leverage situations.
2025 Outlook: Pages could hit 25+ home runs if given regular at-bats, making him a breakout candidate in the heart of the Dodgers’ lineup.
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5. Gavin Stone (Right-Handed Pitcher)
Age in 2025: 26
Why He Could Break Out:
Gavin Stone has been a sleeper prospect in the Dodgers’ system, but his performances suggest he’s ready for a breakout. A third-round pick in 2020, Stone has rapidly climbed the ranks thanks to his plus changeup, excellent command, and ability to induce weak contact. His pitching style contrasts with the high-velocity arms like Miller, making him a valuable asset in a diverse rotation.
Stone’s ability to mix pitches and locate them effectively has drawn comparisons to successful Dodgers pitchers of the past, such as Hyun-Jin Ryu. In 2025, he could solidify himself as a reliable middle-of-the-rotation starter or a key multi-inning reliever, depending on team needs.
2025 Outlook: Stone could post a sub-4.00 ERA as a starter, with strong peripheral numbers, making him a dependable option in a championship-contending rotation.
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Honorable Mentions
Nick Frasso (RHP): An exciting arm with a high strikeout rate, Frasso could make an impact as either a starter or a reliever.
Eddys Leonard (INF): A versatile infielder with solid offensive tools, Leonard could compete for a utility role.
Josue De Paula (OF): Although younger and less polished, De Paula’s raw talent and athleticism make him a name to watch for the future.
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Conclusion
The Dodgers’ ability to develop and integrate young talent has been a hallmark of their success. In 2025, players like Diego Cartaya, Michael Busch, Bobby Miller, Andy Pages, and Gavin Stone could take center stage, helping the team maintain its dominance while providing a glimpse into the next generation of stars. Whether through their bats, gloves, or arms, these players have the potential to leave a lasting impact and cement themselves as key contributors for years to come.
As the Dodgers navigate the challenges of blending youth with experience, the 2025 season could be a turning point for the franchise, fueled by the emergence of these exciting prospects.