In the spring training season, analysts were buzzing about the top three American League rookies: Orioles second baseman Jackson Holliday and Rangers outfielders Evan Carter and Wyatt Langford. Holliday, considered the best prospect in baseball, had a rough start in the majors and was sent back to the minors after going 2-for-34. Carter, coming off a strong debut in 2023, was batting .218. Langford, my preseason pick for AL Rookie of the Year, struggled early and ended up on the injured list with a hamstring strain.
Surprisingly, the best AL rookie thus far has been Mason Miller, the sensational closer for the A’s. He has converted all eight of his save opportunities, boasting a 1.10 ERA and 0.67 WHIP in 13 appearances. Miller’s performance has made him the best closer in MLB, with his wit and sense of humor adding to his appeal.
Another standout rookie is Colton Cowser of the Orioles. As the fifth overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, Cowser has proven to be the best Orioles rookie this season. He leads all rookies in home runs (six) and ranks in the top three in OPS (.910) and RBIs (20). Cowser also impresses defensively, ranking in the 96th percentile in outs above average and the 97th percentile in arm strength and barrel%.
The Yankees found a reliable starter in Luis Gil after Gerrit Cole’s injury. Gil leads all rookie pitchers with 45 strikeouts in 37 innings and boasts a 2.92 ERA over seven starts. Opposing batters are hitting just .143 against him.
Wilyer Abreu of the Red Sox has been a standout rookie in right field. He leads all AL rookies with 27 hits and has a .368 on-base percentage. Abreu’s strong arm and base-running skills make him an exciting player to watch.
Wenceel Pérez of the Tigers has surpassed expectations as Colt Keith struggles. Pérez has a .286 batting average and a .366 on-base percentage, showcasing his offensive prowess early in his career.
Simeon Woods Richardson of the Twins has stepped up in the absence of key pitchers and delivered a 1.74 ERA over four starts. His wipeout slider has been his most effective pitch, with opposing batters hitting just .172 against it.
Cooper Criswell of the Red Sox has been a fascinating story, with a 1.74 ERA over four starts and one relief appearance. His sinking fastball has proven to be a challenging pitch for hitters.
Evan Carter of the Rangers has had a slow start but possesses impressive speed and chase rate. Once he figures out how to hit breaking balls and changeups, he has the potential to climb the rankings.
Ceddanne Rafaela of the Red Sox showcases his athleticism and defense at shortstop and in center field. While his batting average is low at .213, he has shown power with seven doubles, two triples, and three home runs.
Despite a slow start, Wyatt Langford of the Rangers remains my pick for AL Rookie of the Year. He has future 30-home run power and ranks in the 98th percentile in sprint speed. Although he is currently on the injured list, brighter days are ahead for Langford.
As the season progresses, these rankings are subject to change. Some rookies will catch fire while others may struggle. The Rookie of the Year race is always unpredictable, with lesser-known names often making a significant impact.