As the 2024 Major League Baseball season unfolds, spring training has once again sparked speculation about players ready to make a name for themselves. Each year, predictions are made about players primed for breakout performances, and while some names consistently rise to the occasion, others surprise fans and analysts alike.

A "breakout candidate" is defined as a player projected to improve significantly over their past performance or to make an impressive debut on the grand stage. Here are the top 20 breakout stars of 2024 who turned potential into stellar achievements. If you think we missed anyone, feel free to shout out your picks!

1. Tarik Skubal, LHP, Tigers

- **WAR:** 6.1 Tarik Skubal has emerged as one of the league’s elite pitchers, boasting an impressive 18-4 record with a 2.39 ERA, and a staggering 228 strikeouts over 192 innings pitched. He has led the league in several key categories, including wins and strikeouts, reaffirming his talent and potential for accolades like the Cy Young Award.

2. Jarren Duran, CF, Red Sox

- **WAR:** 8.6 Jarren Duran has made history by becoming the first player ever to achieve at least 10 triples, 20 home runs, 30 stolen bases, and 40 doubles in a single season. His remarkable performance is complemented by extraordinary defensive metrics, making him a dual threat on the field.

3. Paul Skenes, RHP, Pirates

- **WAR:** 6.0 In a remarkable first season, Paul Skenes has made his mark with a record of 11-3 and a 1.99 ERA, making him a frontrunner for NL Rookie of the Year honors. His impressive performances culminated in an All-Star Game nod, highlighting his transition from NCAA champion with LSU to a potential MLB star.

4. Riley Greene, LF, Tigers

- **WAR:** 5.3 After a promising but injury-plagued start to his career, Riley Greene has reached new heights in 2024. With 24 home runs and 72 RBIs, he has solidified his role as a key player for the Tigers, showcasing his growth since his debut.

5. Elly De La Cruz, SS, Reds

- **WAR:** 5.2 De La Cruz is turning heads with explosive speed and power. Having significantly improved his offensive metrics, he made his first All-Star appearance while slashing an impressive .260/.341/.473 this season.

6. Cole Ragans, LHP, Royals

- **WAR:** 4.6 After being acquired in a trade, Cole Ragans has become a dominant presence on the mound. With a high strikeout rate and impressive ERA, he’s proving to be a valuable asset for the Royals.

7. Jackson Merrill, CF, Padres

- **WAR:** 4.3 Merrill’s transition to center field has been seamless, and his offensive output has reflected that with a notable batting average and home run count, marking him as one of the top rookies this year.

8. Jackson Chourio, LF, Brewers

- **WAR:** 3.8 Chourio faced early-season struggles but rebounded with an outstanding second half of the season, illustrating the importance of perseverance while contributing significantly to the Brewers' success.

9. Luis Gil, RHP, Yankees

- **WAR:** 3.4 After overcoming previous injuries, Gil has successfully re-established himself in the league, demonstrating the explosive capabilities that made him a noteworthy prospect.

10. Mason Miller, RHP, A’s

- **WAR:** 2.5 With a blazing fastball and a remarkable season as a closer, Miller made headlines by logging numerous saves and showcasing his talent on the All-Star stage.

11. Michael King, RHP, Padres

- **WAR:** 3.9 In his inaugural year as a full-time starter, King has proven to be a reliable option for the Padres, leaving batters struggling to make contact.

12. Brenton Doyle, CF, Rockies

- **WAR:** 4.0 Despite the Rockies' struggles, Doyle's impressive offensive and defensive performances have emerged as bright spots, showcasing his potential as a future star.

13. Garrett Crochet, LHP, White Sox

- **WAR:** 3.8 A turbulent season was marked with ups and downs for Crochet, but he now stands out as a future ace in the White Sox rotation, having made an All-Star appearance.

14. Cristopher Sánchez, LHP, Phillies

- **WAR:** 3.5 Sánchez’s breakout season landed him an All-Star nod, reflecting his remarkable development into a key starting pitcher for the Phillies.

15. Yainer Diaz, C, Astros

- **WAR:** 3.8 Diaz has stepped up significantly in the absence of veteran catchers, delivering offensive statistics that outperform expectations for his position.

16. Ronel Blanco, RHP, Astros

- **WAR:** 4.0 Blanco’s transformation from a struggling relief pitcher to a reliable starter has been crucial for the Astros, emphasizing the importance of player development.

17. Zach Neto, SS, Angels

- **WAR:** 4.9 As a young and dynamic player, Neto is solidifying his place within the Angels, contributing effectively both offensively and defensively.

18. Jurickson Profar, LF, Padres

- **WAR:** 3.7 After a lukewarm free agency period, Profar has turned out to be one of the best value signings this season, showcasing his skills and helping the Padres in a big way.

19. Mark Vientos, 3B, Mets

- **WAR:** 3.1 After an inconsistent start to his career, Vientos has stepped up with improvements in both his batting and fielding, energizing his contributions to the Mets.

20. Tanner Houck, RHP, Red Sox

- **WAR:** 3.9 Houck has evolved as a pitcher, showcasing better techniques and performance metrics that have led him to an All-Star season.

The 2024 baseball scene is colored by these breakout performances, showing that every spring holds the promise of fresh talent and unexpected surprises in the world of Major League Baseball! Don't miss out on witnessing these stars as they continue their journeys.