As the 2025 Major League Baseball season approaches, a number of Jewish players are poised to make headlines. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, these athletes are expected to play key roles on their teams and continue to represent the growing presence of Jewish talent in the league. Here are five players to keep an eye on this season:
Max Fried – Pitcher, New York Yankees
Max Fried enters the 2025 season as the new ace of the New York Yankees, following an eight-year, $218 million free agent deal that made him the highest-paid Jewish athlete in MLB history. After years of consistency with the Atlanta Braves, Fried arrives in the Bronx expected to stabilize a Yankees rotation dealing with the loss of Gerrit Cole to injury.
Known for his command, poise and ability to generate ground balls, Fried is projected to thrive under pressure and become a clubhouse leader on a team with postseason aspirations. As long as he stays healthy, he should contend for All-Star honors and possibly even the Cy Young conversation.
Alex Bregman – Infielder, Boston Red Sox
Alex Bregman, long a fixture in Houston, begins a new chapter with the Boston Red Sox after signing a three-year, $120 million contract. The move reunites Bregman with the American League East, where his defensive excellence and plate discipline will be on full display.
While Rafael Devers occupies third base, Bregman is expected to slide over to second, providing Boston with a veteran presence up the middle and a steady bat in the lineup. As a former All-Star and World Series champion, Bregman brings both postseason experience and a strong baseball IQ. He is projected to be a key piece in the Red Sox's push to return to playoff relevance.
Joc Pederson – Outfielder/DH, Texas Rangers
After a productive season with Arizona, Joc Pederson signed with the Texas Rangers, adding proven postseason experience and left-handed power to the defending champions. The veteran outfielder and designated hitter is expected to play a complementary role, offering a power threat in the middle of the lineup and veteran leadership in the clubhouse.
Pederson is especially effective against right-handed pitching, and the Rangers will likely deploy him strategically in a platoon or DH role. With his October track record and clubhouse energy, he is projected to be an important piece for a team with championship expectations once again.
Dean Kremer – Pitcher, Baltimore Orioles
Dean Kremer solidified his place in the Orioles’ starting rotation in 2024, and he returns in 2025 expected to build on that momentum. The first Israeli citizen to play in Major League Baseball, Kremer made history last year as the first to start a postseason game.
While not overpowering, he mixes pitches effectively and keeps hitters off balance. His consistency and durability have made him a reliable starter for a rising Orioles team. Projected to remain a middle-of-the-rotation arm, Kremer is expected to deliver quality starts and provide veteran steadiness in an otherwise youthful pitching staff.
Zack Gelof – Second Baseman, Oakland Athletics
Zack Gelof quickly emerged as one of the most exciting young players in the American League during his rookie campaign with the Oakland Athletics. Despite struggles with strikeouts, his combination of speed, power and athleticism helped him stand out on a rebuilding team.
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Entering his first full season, Gelof is projected to take another step forward as a central figure in Oakland’s long-term plans. His defensive range and instincts at second base complement his offensive upside, making him a potential 20-20 player if he improves his plate discipline. Gelof is expected to be a cornerstone in the A’s lineup and a breakout candidate in 2025.