The 2025 MLB Rule 5 Draft is taking place today at the Winter Meetings in Orlando. This event serves as a pivotal opportunity for players who have shown potential but are blocked from ascending to the major leagues by their current teams. The selection process is designed to allow these athletes a chance to prove themselves in new environments.
Eligibility and Selection Process
To qualify for the Rule 5 Draft, players must meet specific criteria. Players who were 18 or younger when signing and turned professional in 2021, as well as those who turned pro at age 19 or older in 2022, are eligible for selection if they are not on a 40-man roster.
Unlike the amateur (Rule 4) draft that utilizes a lottery system for selection order, the Rule 5 Draft follows a straightforward approach. Teams choose in the reverse order of the previous season’s standings. Clubs must have an open 40-man roster spot to make a selection, though they are not required to pick when their turn arises.
Financial Implications
A fee of $100,000 is required for teams that select a player in the Rule 5 Draft. Once selected, players must remain on the active roster or the injured list throughout the entire 2026 season. If they do not meet this requirement, the players will be put on waivers. If they clear waivers, they must be offered back to their original team.
Historical Context and Previous Picks
The Rule 5 Draft has seen many notable selections over the years. Players like Anthony Santander and Ryan Pressly have made significant impacts after being picked in past drafts. Historical figures, such as George Bell and Roberto Clemente, highlight the draft’s long-running tradition.
In the last Rule 5 Draft, 15 players were selected. However, only four are still with the teams that picked them, and three have had their rights fully transferred to new clubs. Noteworthy selections included:
- Shane Smith — selected by the White Sox from the Brewers
- Liam Hicks — selected by the Marlins from the Tigers
- Mike Vasil — selected by the Phillies from the Mets, later traded to the Rays, then to the White Sox
- Angel Bastardo — selected by the Blue Jays from the Red Sox, recovering from Tommy John surgery
Future Considerations
For Angel Bastardo, he remains on Toronto’s 40-man roster, but the Blue Jays do not yet hold his full rights. To secure full rights, he must be an active roster member for at least 90 days during the 2026 season. Most of the other players selected last year have returned to their original teams or become free agents.
This year’s selections are expected to be announced shortly. Keep an eye on the teams’ choices as new talents find pathways to major league opportunities.
