The future of baseball is loaded with talent. The last few seasons have seen breakout performances from young superstars like Elly De La Cruz, Paul Skenes, Bobby Witt Jr., and plenty more.

Who’s set to make waves as a rookie this year?

Keith Law of The Athletic recently listed Chicago Cubs prospect Matt Shaw as the top prospect to break out in 2025. Shaw is expected to win the third base job in Chicago if spring training goes to plan.

“Shaw appears to be the leader to win the third-base job in Chicago this year, and they’ve been working toward creating a path for him at least since the summer, although their quixotic pursuit of Alex Bregman would have changed Shaw’s placement on this list had they succeeded,” Law wrote. “(I don’t think he would have been enough of an upgrade over Shaw to justify the extra expense.) Shaw makes a lot of high-quality contact, and he’s hit all the way up through Triple-A, showing the ability to hit the best pitching he’s faced so far.”

Shaw is one of the best prospects in baseball and he’s expected to step into a huge role for the contending Cubs.

The righty has incredible power, showcased by his .522 career slugging percentage in professional baseball. He also showcases the ability to draw a walk, and steal some bases when he gets on.

Shaw is an all-around prospect with the potential to develop into a five-tool player. He’s likely going to be one of the rookies that makes an immediate impact in 2025.