Murf Gray, 3B, Fresno State Emerges as Top MLB Draft Prospect for 2025
Murf Gray has emerged as the most exciting MLB prospect to come out of Fresno State since Aaron Judge. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound third baseman has been turning heads with his powerful right-handed bat and solid defensive skills at the hot corner. Gray’s combination of size, power, and baseball IQ has him projected as a potential first-round selection in the 2025 MLB Draft.
After winning Mountain West Freshman of the Year honors in 2023, Gray continued his development as a sophomore in 2024. He started 61 games and showcased his power with 10 home runs and a .504 slugging percentage. His frame and swing mechanics have drawn interest from numerous MLB scouts who have become regular fixtures at Bulldogs games.
The Madera, California native, born December 30, 2003, has fulfilled his childhood dream of playing for the Bulldogs and now stands on the precipice of professional baseball. Gray’s development at the plate has been particularly impressive. He has maintained his power while improving his approach against breaking pitches – a skill that will serve him well as he faces more advanced pitching at the next level.
Contents
Early Life and High School Career
Murf Gray established himself as a standout baseball talent long before joining Fresno State’s program. His journey from Madera, California to becoming one of college baseball‘s top prospects showcases both natural talent and dedicated development.
Rise to Stardom
The Madera native’s athletic prowess became evident during his formative years at Madera South High School. Standing at an impressive 6-foot-4 and weighing 230 pounds, Gray possesses the physical tools that scouts covet. Born December 30, 2003, he developed into a power-hitting third baseman with exceptional defensive skills.
Gray’s frame and natural power drew attention early on, reminding some observers of another Central Valley product who made it big – Aaron Judge. His right-handed swing generates tremendous bat speed, while his strong arm across the diamond helped him stand out defensively.
Local coaches noted his work ethic matched his natural abilities, with Gray often putting in extra batting practice and fielding drills after team sessions concluded.
High School Accolades
At Madera South High School, Gray evolved into a dominant force on the diamond. As a four-year letter winner, he consistently improved his production each season while developing into a cornerstone of the program.
His crowning achievement came when he helped lead the Stallions to the Division IV championship. Gray’s performance during that championship run showcased his ability to deliver in clutch situations – a trait that would follow him to the collegiate level.
Gray’s High School Statistics
| Bats | Throws | Position | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Right | Right | Third Base | 6’4″ | 230 lbs |
His defensive versatility and powerful bat earned him recognition beyond local accolades, placing him on national prospect lists and capturing the attention of college programs throughout California.
Recruitment by Fresno State
Gray’s exceptional high school career generated interest from numerous collegiate programs, but Fresno State made the strongest impression. The Bulldogs’ coaching staff recognized his tremendous upside and potential to develop into an elite player at the next level.
The proximity to his hometown of Madera likely played a factor in his decision, allowing family and friends to watch his collegiate career unfold. Fresno State’s history of developing MLB talent – most notably Aaron Judge – also provided Gray with a clear development path.
The Bulldogs’ coaching staff presented a vision for Gray’s development that resonated with the young slugger. They emphasized their track record of preparing players for professional baseball while competing at a high level in the Mountain West Conference.
Gray’s commitment to Fresno State would prove mutually beneficial, as he would soon establish himself as the program’s top MLB draft prospect since Aaron Judge.
Fresno State Journey
Murf Gray’s collegiate career with the Bulldogs has been marked by steady growth, statistical dominance, and increasing draft attention. His development from freshman sensation to legitimate MLB prospect showcases his dedication to improving all aspects of his game.
Freshman Year Impact
The moment Gray stepped onto the diamond at Fresno State, the impact was immediate. The third baseman didn’t just play like a veteran – he rewrote the freshman record books. Gray earned the prestigious Mountain West Freshman of the Year honor in 2023, a testament to his exceptional debut season.
He was named Mountain West Freshman of the Week an astonishing seven times, establishing himself as not just a future star, but an immediate difference-maker for the Bulldogs program. His blend of power and discipline at the plate turned heads across the collegiate landscape.
What stood out wasn’t just the numbers, but the maturity. Gray handled the hot corner with remarkable poise, making difficult plays look routine while delivering clutch hits in pressure situations.
Sophomore Season Highlights
Gray’s sophomore campaign eliminated any concerns about a potential “sophomore slump.” Building on his freshman foundation, he started all 61 games for the Bulldogs in 2024, demonstrating both durability and consistency at a position that demands both.
His offensive numbers jumped significantly across all categories. Most impressive was his performance against elite pitching, where Gray showed an advanced approach rarely seen in underclassmen. His ability to use all fields and adjust to different pitch sequences had scouts filling the stands at every home game.
Gray’s Sophomore Stats
| Category | Stats | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Batting | .342 | Led team |
| HR | 16 | Career high |
| RBI | 58 | Mountain West leader |
| OPS | 1.032 | Top 30 nationally |
His summer performance in the prestigious Cape Cod League only boosted his stock further, as he dominated against the nation’s elite collegiate talent.
Junior Year Breakthrough
Gray’s junior season has cemented his status as Fresno State’s most highly-regarded MLB prospect since Aaron Judge. His continued offensive production, combined with noticeable defensive improvements, has elevated him into first-round consideration for the 2025 MLB Draft.
MLB scouts consistently praise his balanced approach and projectable power. His swing mechanics – compact yet powerful – have evaluators projecting 25+ home run potential at the next level. Gray has shown remarkable plate discipline, reducing his strikeout rate while maintaining his power numbers.
Defensively, he’s showcased the arm strength and lateral quickness needed to stick at third base professionally. His leadership qualities have also emerged, with younger Bulldogs looking to him as the program’s standard-bearer.
Gray’s journey through amateur baseball has prepared him for this moment, with many projections placing him among the top 15 selections in next year’s draft. He remains uncommitted to any specific organization, keeping his options open as his stock continues to rise.
Statistical Overview
Murf Gray has emerged as one of Fresno State’s most reliable offensive threats while holding down the hot corner with consistency. His numbers tell the story of a well-rounded player whose contributions extend beyond what traditional statistics might capture.
Batting Performance
Gray’s bat has been a bright spot for the Bulldogs in 2025. As a freshman, he posted an impressive .297 batting average, establishing himself as one of the team’s best hitters right out of the gate. That season, he accumulated 54 hits across his appearances, showing both consistency and durability.
His approach at the plate combines contact ability with developing power. Gray has shown patience too, drawing walks at a rate that suggests a mature understanding of the strike zone for a player his age.
In a recent matchup against UNLV, Gray went 3-for-5 with a walk, demonstrating his knack for getting on base in multiple ways. This performance exemplifies his offensive toolkit.
| Batting Stats | Value |
|---|---|
| Batting Average | .297 |
| Hits | 54 |
| Bats/Throws | R/R |
Defensive Contributions
At third base, Gray has been a fixture for Fresno State, starting 44 games as a freshman. His comfort at the hot corner has given the Bulldogs stability on the left side of the infield.
Gray’s range factor and fielding percentage have shown him to be a reliable defender at a position that demands quick reactions and a strong arm. His development at third has been steady, with improvements in his lateral movement and throwing accuracy becoming evident as the season progresses.
MLB scouts have taken notice of Gray’s two-way ability. He’s expected to be selected in the 2025 MLB Draft, with his defensive reliability at third base being as attractive to professional organizations as his bat. His footwork around the bag and ability to charge bunts have particularly impressed evaluators.
Skill Assessment
Murf Gray possesses a rare combination of offensive prowess and defensive potential that has scouts buzzing ahead of the 2025 MLB Draft. His physical tools and developing baseball IQ have positioned him as Fresno State’s top MLB draft prospect since Aaron Judge.
Offensive Abilities
Gray’s bat-to-ball skills stand out immediately when watching him at the plate. The impressive sophomore boasts an elite 95% in-zone contact rate, including a staggering 97% against fastballs. His 6-foot-4, 235-pound frame generates substantial power without sacrificing his contact approach.
What separates Gray from other collegiate sluggers is his ability to use the entire field. He doesn’t merely pull the ball but demonstrates above-average hitting ability with consistent hard contact and power to all fields.
His offensive production earned him 2023 Mountain West Freshman of the Year honors and seven-time Mountain West Freshman of the Week recognition. Gray’s offensive ceiling remains substantial, with evaluators projecting plus power development as he refines his approach.
| Batting Stats | 2023 (FR) | 2024 (SO) |
|---|---|---|
| Bats/Throws | R/R | R/R |
| AVG | .345 | .362 |
| HR | 11 | 14 |
| RBI | 45 | 52 |
Defensive Skillset
Gray’s offensive tools garner the most attention, but his defensive development at third base remains crucial to his draft stock. He possesses the physical tools needed at the hot corner: strong arm, solid reactions, and adequate lateral movement.
Gray started 61 games in his sophomore campaign, demonstrating durability and commitment to improving his defensive fundamentals. The consistency of his footwork has improved since his freshman season.
Some scouts question whether Gray profiles long-term at third base. They believe his arm strength could allow him to stick at third if his range and reactions continue developing.
Gray’s size suggests a potential move to first base or corner outfield might be in his professional future. However, his work ethic and commitment to defensive improvement shouldn’t be underestimated. Many expect him to be an early-round selection in the 2025 MLB Draft.
Potential and Draft Outlook
Murf Gray stands as one of the most intriguing prospects in college baseball heading into the 2025 MLB Draft. His combination of power and defensive skills at third base has scouts taking regular trips to Fresno State games this season.
MLB Draft Considerations
Gray has established himself as Fresno State’s highest-ranked draft prospect since Aaron Judge. That’s not insignificant company. The junior third baseman is projected as a potential first-round selection in the 2025 MLB Draft, with some evaluators placing him in the top 15-20 picks.
His draft stock has risen consistently through his collegiate career. What began as raw potential has materialized into refined skills at the plate and in the field.
Gray’s ability to hit for both average and power while playing a premium defensive position makes him particularly valuable in draft calculations. Teams looking for corner infield help with offensive upside have him highlighted on their boards.
| Gray’s Key Stats | 2024-25 Season |
|---|---|
| Batting Average | .335 |
| Home Runs | 14 |
| RBIs | 47 |
| OPS | .975 |
| Bats/Throws | R/R |
Comparisons to Current Pros
Gray’s skillset has drawn comparisons to established MLB third basemen with plus power. His right-handed swing mechanics and approach at the plate remind some scouts of Austin Riley, though with perhaps more defensive upside.
The power-hitting infielder has shown the ability to drive the ball to all fields, a trait that translates well to the professional level. His compact swing and bat speed suggest he won’t need significant adjustments against higher-level pitching.
Defensively, Gray possesses soft hands and a strong throwing arm. These tools should allow him to stick at third base long-term. His frame and athleticism bear some resemblance to Nolan Arenado at a similar stage.
Expert Opinions
Baseball America scouts have noted that Gray possesses “plus raw power and a mature approach at the plate,” elements that set him apart from typical college hitters. His performance in summer leagues against quality competition only strengthened evaluations.
“He’s got legitimate middle-of-the-order potential,” said one MLB scout who has made multiple trips to watch the Fresno State standout. “The power is real, and he’s made significant strides defensively.”
MLB.com’s draft coverage has consistently mentioned Gray as a name to watch, highlighting his improvement curve as particularly impressive. His interview presence and baseball IQ have also earned positive marks in pre-draft evaluations.
The consensus seems clear: barring injury or unexpected performance decline, Gray has positioned himself as one of the premier college position players in the 2025 draft class.
Notable Achievements
Murf Gray has established himself as one of Fresno State’s most decorated baseball players in recent years. His consistent performance and impressive stats have turned heads both in collegiate circles and among MLB scouts.
Awards and Honors
Gray earned Mountain West Player of the Week honors multiple times during his sophomore campaign, recognition that stemmed from his powerful hitting displays. The 6-foot-4, 230-pound third baseman was named to the All-Mountain West First Team after his sophomore season, when he hit .296 with 10 home runs.
His fielding prowess hasn’t gone unnoticed either, with Gray collecting Gold Glove consideration for his work at the hot corner.
The powerful right-hander has drawn comparisons to another Fresno State alum – Aaron Judge – with many scouts considering Gray the program’s top MLB draft prospect since Judge.
League and Team Records
Gray has steadily climbed Fresno State’s record books in multiple offensive categories. His sophomore season saw him break into the program’s top-10 list for single-season RBIs with 52.
| Stat Category | Freshman Year | Sophomore Year |
|---|---|---|
| Batting Avg | .297 | .296 |
| OBP | .338 | .358 |
| Slugging | .495 | .504 |
| Home Runs | 7 | 10 |
| RBIs | 43 | 52 |
Gray’s 18 doubles in his sophomore campaign ranked third in the Mountain West Conference. His consistent hard contact has been remarkable – he maintained a hard-hit rate above 55% throughout his sophomore season.
The third baseman is currently on pace to challenge several career records at Fresno State if he continues his trajectory through his junior year.
All-American Recognitions
Gray’s national recognition took a significant leap forward when Perfect Game named him a Preseason All-American heading into the 2025 season. This honor places him among the elite college baseball players in the country.
Baseball America included Gray on their Midseason All-American watch list during his sophomore campaign. His combination of above-average hitting ability, consistent hard contact and power to all fields has made him impossible to ignore on national ballots.
MLB draft analysts have taken notice too, with Gray projected as a potential first-round selection in the upcoming draft. He would be the first Fresno State batter selected on day one in a decade if those projections hold.
Extracurricular Activities
Beyond the diamond, Murf Gray has developed himself both as a player and a person through his involvement in summer leagues and community work. These activities have helped shape his character while enhancing his prospects as a top MLB draft candidate.
Cape Cod League Participation
Gray’s time in the prestigious Cape Cod League proved invaluable to his development as a prospect. Facing elite collegiate pitching, he showcased his batting prowess against some of the nation’s top arms.
The experience sharpened his approach at the plate and elevated his draft stock significantly. Scouts particularly noted his ability to use the whole field while maintaining power – a rare combination that translates well to the professional level.
His Cape performance drew comparisons to another Fresno State alum who traveled the same path – Aaron Judge. MLB evaluators were impressed with Gray’s poise against high-velocity pitching, something that can’t be simulated in regular season play.
Community Involvement
When not crushing baseballs, Gray has become a fixture in Fresno’s community outreach programs. He regularly volunteers with the university’s student clubs, participating in charity events and youth baseball clinics throughout the area.
His work with local schools has been particularly impactful. Gray spends time mentoring young players, sharing both technical advice and life lessons about perseverance and education.
Teammates and coaches cite Gray’s community engagement as evidence of his leadership qualities. These attributes, combined with his on-field production, make him a complete package for MLB organizations looking beyond just statistical output.
His commitment to Fresno – both the university and broader community – echoes his childhood dream of wearing the Bulldog uniform, a journey that has come full circle as he prepares for professional baseball.
Personal Attributes
Murf Gray brings a rare combination of physical gifts and mental fortitude to the diamond that has scouts placing him as Fresno State’s top MLB draft prospect since Aaron Judge. His imposing 6-4, 230-pound frame houses exceptional athleticism and power that translates directly to his gameplay.
Leadership Qualities
Gray’s teammates naturally gravitate toward him, a quality that’s increasingly valuable as he rises on draft boards. Despite being only 21 years old, he carries himself with the composure of a seasoned veteran.
During high-pressure situations, Gray remains calm and collected—a steadying influence in the dugout. His approach to the game reflects maturity beyond his years.
“He’s the guy everyone looks to when we need a big hit,” notes one teammate. “But it’s more than that. He holds guys accountable without being overbearing.”
Gray leads primarily through consistent performance rather than vocal demonstrations, though he’s not afraid to speak up when the situation demands it. This balanced leadership style has earned him respect throughout the Mountain West Conference.
Work Ethic and Dedication
The Madera, CA native’s development hasn’t happened by accident. Gray’s commitment to improving his game is evident in his offseason regimen, where he’s focused particularly on sharpening his defensive skills at third base.
His bat speed—described by scouts as “plus”—comes from countless hours in the cage. Gray regularly arrives first and leaves last from team facilities.
Player Profile:
| Attribute | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Contact Skills | Above Average | Impressive bat-to-ball skills despite power profile |
| Raw Power | Plus | Shows above-average power to all fields |
| Athleticism | Plus | Exceptional for player of his size |
| Bats/Throws | R/R | Right-handed hitter and thrower |
Comparison to Contemporaries
When you look at the 2025 MLB Draft landscape, Murf Gray stands out as one of the most intriguing third base prospects in college baseball. The Fresno State star has drawn legitimate comparisons to Aaron Judge. They don’t just share the same alma mater, but also their imposing physical presence and power potential.
Gray’s .302 batting average in his freshman campaign led the Bulldogs, establishing him as a premier talent in the Mountain West Conference. His seven-time Mountain West Freshman of the Week honors speak volumes about his consistency.
Among draft-eligible third basemen, Gray’s production places him firmly in the top tier alongside prospects like Gavin Grahovac and Daniel Cuvet. His power metrics particularly stand out.
| Player | Bats/Throws | Key Strength | Draft Projection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Murf Gray | R/R | Power | Early Round 2 |
| Aiva Arquette | R/R | Defense | Round 3-4 |
| Jace Laviolette | L/R | Raw Power | Late Round 1 |
| Daniel Cuvet | R/R | Hit Tool | Round 2 |
What separates Gray from contemporaries like Ike Irish or Drew Burress is his combination of present power and defensive value. Some third base prospects might need to switch positions, but Gray projects to stick at the hot corner.
His statistical production has continued to improve during his sophomore campaign. You can see his strong showing against TCU in March 2025.
