It’s an electric week for baseball fans in New Jersey—especially in Trenton—where the buzz around the 2025 MLB Draft is louder than ever. With Thunder players getting national recognition, screens across the state will be tuned in at 7:00 PM this Sunday, when the next generation of MLB stars begins their journey. And if you’re catching the draft at your favorite local hangout, make sure it’s one of New Jersey’s best sports bars—because you’ll want to celebrate every pick that comes out of the Garden State.
Thunder Arms and Bats Take Over the Draft Boards
After a standout 2024 season that saw 11 players from the Trenton Thunder selected in the MLB Draft and another four signed as undrafted free agents, the bar is set high—but this year’s class is already turning heads.
Leading the charge is RHP Miguel Sime, a fireballer out of Trenton and the first MLB Draft League player selected in the 2025 Draft, going in the 4th Round to the Washington Nationals. Sime’s fastball has reached an eye-popping 100.9 mph, the highest in Draft League history. His slider and changeup round out a devastating arsenal, and with a 33% whiff rate, Sime has proven he’s more than just velocity—he’s a pitcher with real command and polish. Scouts rave about his control, makeup, and raw talent.
Joining him in this year’s draft:
- RHP Micah Bucknam (Trenton 2022) – 4th Round, Toronto Blue Jays
- LHP Joe Ariola (2025) – Arizona Diamondbacks
- RHP Bryson Dudley (2025) – Kansas City Royals
- RHP Noah Edders (2025) – Chicago Cubs
- Infielder Logan Dawson (2025) – Philadelphia Phillies
- RHP Cooper McGrath (2025) – San Francisco Giants
- LHP Nick Frusco (2025) – Pittsburgh Pirates
- Infielder Bryce Martin-Grudzielanek (2024) – New York Yankees
That’s nine more names with Trenton roots making their way into the pros—and this is just the beginning.
What Makes the Trenton Thunder a Draft League Powerhouse
As a founding member of the MLB Draft League, the Trenton Thunder offer a platform like no other. The league was built to spotlight the most promising draft-eligible players in the country, and Trenton has quickly become one of the premier destinations for young talent looking to take the next step. The team plays in a split-season format, giving players a chance to develop before and after the draft in a competitive, pro-level environment.
Thunder fans have become accustomed to seeing stars in the making. From lightning-fast pitchers like Sime to power-hitting outfielders like Brayden Fraasman, the stands at Trenton Thunder Ballpark are filled with future big leaguers—and fans who get to say, “I saw them before they made it.”
Brayden Fraasman: Quiet Thunder, Loud Bat
One of the more intriguing hitters in this year’s group is Brayden Fraasman, an outfielder who transferred to NC State after tearing it up at the JUCO level. Fraasman mashed 11 home runs in 54 games this spring and made a solid impression during his time in Trenton. While his contact was mostly singles, his ability to barrel balls (25.6% line drive rate) and demolish sliders (.545 AVG, .667 BABIP) makes him a player with serious upside.
Trenton Thunder Headlines: From Walk-Offs to Citi Field Showdowns
While the draft takes center stage, the Thunder have been busy building memories all summer long:
- Thunder Fall in Sudden Death to State College in a wild finish
- Pork Roll Power! A walk-off win against Frederick marks their fifth straight victory
- Inter-League Action at Citi Field: Thunder players showcased their talent in a special matchup under the big lights
- Tomato Pies & Sellouts: The team’s rebrand as the Trenton Tomato Pies drew a sellout crowd, even if the Spikes took Game Two
This is a team that’s not just developing stars—it’s entertaining fans and representing the heart of New Jersey baseball culture.
⚾ Donate Blood, Get a Movie Night—And Save a Life ❤️
Before the draft festivities kick off, the Trenton Thunder are hosting something even more impactful: a blood drive on Sunday, July 20th from 9 AM–2 PM. Donors will receive a Fandango Movie Gift Card 🍿 from the Red Cross—because being a hero doesn’t always happen on the field.
👉 CLICK HERE to schedule your appointment
Where to Watch the Draft? We’ve Got You Covered
Whether you’re following every pick or just want to raise a glass when your team makes a selection, New Jersey’s sports bars are the perfect place to gather with fellow fans. From massive TVs and stadium-style seating to local brews and electric energy, you’ll want to catch the draft at one of NJ’s best sports bars.
Celebrate the next chapter for these Thunder players the right way—with wings in hand, surrounded by fans, in a space built for game day.
The Future Is Now, and It Runs Through Trenton
With a wave of talent heading into the pros, the Trenton Thunder continue to shape the future of baseball. Whether you’re catching a game at the ballpark, tuning into the draft from your local bar, or donating blood to support the community, New Jersey baseball is alive, thriving, and full of heart.
Stay with us all week long for updates on who gets drafted, where they land, and how our local heroes continue to represent the Garden State at the next level.
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