This young power hitter can one day be a solid replacement for Manny Machado.
On Sunday, the 2025 MLB Draft will commence and teams will select the players they feel can make their respective franchises take the next step. Teams will look to either find the players they feel will help rebuild the organization or find the right ones who will help keep the franchise as a contender.
The San Diego Padres hold the No. 25 overall pick in this year’s draft. The Padres are looking to strengthen their minor league system and build prospects who will keep San Diego competing in the NL pennant.
Keith Law of The Athletic published his latest MLB mock draft Tuesday morning. With the 25th pick, Law is predicting that the Padres will take Xavier Neyens, a third baseman out of Mount Vernon High School in Washington.
“AJ Preller has long talked about liking “loud tools,” and Neyens’ power is some of the loudest on the high school side,” Law said of Neyens.
Neyens is the No. 19 overall prospect in the Top 150 players list. As a junior in 2024, he hit .455 with three home runs, 24 RBIs and 20 stolen bases. Neyens also bring experience on the mound as well. He went 8–0 with a 1.26 ERA and 60 strikeouts as a pitcher. He was named the Washington Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year.
Right now, San Diego has a superstar at the hot corner in All-Star third baseman Manny Machado. However, Machado is 33-years-old and likely toward the end of his prime. Drafting a player in Neyens who can take the mantle at third base once Machado leaves or retires can certainly help the franchise down the road.
Category: Baseball
