Recapping Week 4 of the 2025 MiLB Season

We’ve reached the second month of the 2025 Minor League season — and a lot has happened over the last month. Big names have posted big months, including Padres shortstop Leo De Vries, who had a game to remember last week in High-A.

De Vries has massive week

Perhaps the biggest story in the Minors this week came from Fort Wayne, where Leo De Vries had himself a night for the ages on April 22. The Padres prospect hit for the cycle, hit two home runs, drove in eight, and picked up 14 total bases in what was a showcase of the 18-year-old’s talent.

De Vries has held his own in High-A this season despite being incredibly young for the Midwest League. The 18-year-old has a .854 OPS as of April 29, with nine extra-base hits over 17 games.

Looking at notable performers in Triple-A

Tim Elko may not be a high-end prospect at the age of 26. However, the 6’3” first baseman’s been excellent to begin the 2025 campaign. Elko cracked an International League-high five home runs for Charlotte, moving him atop the league lead in home runs (9). He’s also the league’s leader in slugging percentage (.732).

Aside from Elko, Red Sox prospect Marcelo Mayer continues to hit well with Worcester. Mayer drove in 10 over his last five games, along with two home runs hit. Across his first 23 games of the season, Mayer slashed .280/.324/.548 (.872 OPS) with seven home runs.

Two St. Paul Saints combined for big weeks. Former UConn product Anthony Prato hit two home runs and slugged .526. Meanwhile, massive slugger Carson McCusker drove in six. McCusker, the 26-year-old, is batting .329 with a 1.069 OPS heading into play on the 29th.

On the pitching side of things, Guardians prospect Ryan Webb struck out 12 over 9.2 IP and recorded a solid 2.79 ERA on the week.

Moving on to the Pacific Coast League, Jordan Lawlar and A.J. Vukovich are taking advantage of their confines. Vukovich blasted three home runs, while Lawlar slugged .875.

It’s worth noting that Lawlar, who currently owns a 1.142 OPS, has been getting more work at second base with Reno. That will be something to watch over time, especially should the D-Backs ultimately decide to move Ketel Marte off the position long-term.

A look at Double-A

The Tigers have steadily seen newcomers from the farm move up to Detroit. The next name to watch could be Max Anderson, the former second-round pick who’s hitting very well in Erie.

The former Cornhusker notched eight hits over his last four games, raising his batting average to .333. Anderson is a sweet hitter, one with quick hands, won’t strike out a lot, and will go with pitches when necessary. He’s not a power hitter by any means but an effective hitter nonetheless.