From BP's 2025 Royals Top Prospects: https://www.baseballprospectus.com/pros ... prospects/
5.Ramon Ramirez
Pos: DH/C
Born: 2005-06-15
B: Right
T: Right
H: 6′ 0″
W: 180 lbs.
History: Signed January 15, 2023 out of Venezuela.
Previous Rank: NR
Major League ETA: 2028/2029
Year Team Level Age PA R 2B 3B HR RBI BB K SB CS AVG OBP SLG DRC+ BABIP
2023 D-ROB ROK 18 150 26 9 0 8 27 21 18 6 4 .344 .440 .615 – .340
2024 A-ROY ROK 19 203 28 10 1 7 33 26 42 1 0 .265 .379 .459 – .311
The Report: Ramirez was not a particularly notable 2023 IFA signing, who scorched the DSL, but without particularly loud underlying data. He came stateside in 2024 and continued to rake in the Arizona Complex League while seeing significant jumps in his average and max exit velocities. Now we are cooking with (and turning on) gas. Ramirez has a bit of a busy, handsy set-up and some occasional bat wrap in his swing, but he gets it through the zone well and garnered those power gains without sacrificing too much in the way of contact. “Can he stick at catcher?” and “can he hit higher-level pitching with that setup and merely average bat speed?” are both reasonable questions at this point and I’m more bullish on the latter than the former, but Ramirez has at least shown in 2024 that the bat might survive a move off catcher is warranted.
OFP: 55 / Something Will Myersish
Variance: Extreme. Complex-league catching prospects are weird (and very high variance)
7.Gavin Cross
Pos: RF
Born: 2001-02-13
B: Left
T: Left
H: 6′ 1″
W: 210 lbs.
History: Drafted ninth overall in the 2022 draft, Virginia Tech; signed for $5,200,400.
Previous Rank: #3 (org)
Major League ETA: Late 2025/Early 2026
Year Team Level Age PA R 2B 3B HR RBI BB K SB CS AVG OBP SLG DRC+ BABIP
2022 A-ROY ROK 21 12 4 2 0 1 3 2 2 0 0 .500 .583 1.000 – .571
2022 COL Lo-A 21 123 20 5 2 7 22 22 31 4 2 .293 .423 .596 110 .355
2023 SUR WIN 22 34 3 2 0 0 3 6 8 7 0 .222 .353 .296 – .300
2023 QC Hi-A 22 407 49 21 3 12 58 42 113 23 3 .206 .300 .383 93 .262
2023 NWA AA 22 6 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 .000 .167 .000 112 –
2024 NWA AA 23 436 54 19 0 15 59 45 105 30 2 .261 .342 .428 106 .318
The Report: While Cross has never quite recaptured his pro debut magic—and is unlikely to live up to being the ninth-overall pick in the draft—2024 saw a bit of stabilization in the skill set and pointed him towards a likely major-league role, albeit not a particularly impactful one. Like many of the bats in this system, Cross is a lift-and-pull hitter now, strong enough to generate solid-average exit velocities, but with hit tool questions, especially against his fellow southpaws. Cross takes a mighty swat, but tends to move his body rather than the barrel towards the pitch. That’s less of an issue if he gets something waist-high and up, and he can turn on inner half pitches well, but the overall contact rate was still pretty precarious for a 23-year-old in Double-A. Cross also spends most of his time in right field now, and while he looks the part of burly corner masher, he is a better athlete than that epithet, and can occasionally spot you up the middle. He should probably never see a major-league lefty, but the power/speed combo should be useful in a bench or platoon role.
OFP: 50 / Strong-side platoon outfielder who can stand at three in center field occasionally
Variance: Low. Cross has regained some prospect sheen over the last couple seasons, but is going to have a limited ceiling due to the left-on-left issues and likely corner outfield home.
Down on the Farm - 2025
Moderator: Braves
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BP's 2025 Top 101 Prospects: https://www.baseballprospectus.com/pros ... e-top-101/
17. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF
19. Andrew Painter, RHP
20. Cam Smith, 3B
46. Enrique Bradfield, OF
57. Brody Hopkins, RHP
61. Jeferson Quero, C
74. Nolan McLean, RHP
77. Owen Caissie, OF
93. Hurston Waldrep, RHP
17. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF
19. Andrew Painter, RHP
20. Cam Smith, 3B
46. Enrique Bradfield, OF
57. Brody Hopkins, RHP
61. Jeferson Quero, C
74. Nolan McLean, RHP
77. Owen Caissie, OF
93. Hurston Waldrep, RHP
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BA: https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories ... igit-heat/
Velocity hasn’t always been Skylar Hales’ forte. As a Santa Clara freshman in 2021, the righthander was throwing just 90 mph.
He was tall at 6-foot-3 but not particularly strong at 185 pounds. A season in a college weight program helped his velocity jump to 95 mph before his sophomore season. Then he registered 97 mph by the end of fall ball.
Triple digits followed in the spring, and the Rangers couldn’t pass on Hales in the fourth round in 2023. Now a robust 220 pounds, he is eclipsing 100 mph.
Hales finished the 2024 season at Double-A Frisco and was dispatched to the Arizona Fall League for another test that should serve him well after the first full season of his career.
“It’s kind of going along with the learning curve,” Hales said. “The beginning of the year was a little tough because I didn’t have my full routine yet. I thought it was like college.”
His innings count was similar to his time at Santa Clara, but he was pitching more frequently as a full-fledged reliever. He found a regimen that worked for him and helped him stay healthy for 56.2 innings in 44 appearances in 2024.
Hales posted a 3.18 ERA at two stops with 10 saves with 66 strikeouts and 17 walks. He pitched just 5.2 innings in the AFL, but he got in ample side work trying to make his slider more consistent and was toying with a splitter.
He appears to be on an accelerated track to the big leagues as part of a small group of hard-throwing minor league relievers. Hales, though, is trying not to look too far ahead.
“When I was getting (promoted) every step along the way, it’s like one step closer,” Hales said. “But you’ve got to take a step back. You can’t get consumed with that because you can get too eager.”
Velocity hasn’t always been Skylar Hales’ forte. As a Santa Clara freshman in 2021, the righthander was throwing just 90 mph.
He was tall at 6-foot-3 but not particularly strong at 185 pounds. A season in a college weight program helped his velocity jump to 95 mph before his sophomore season. Then he registered 97 mph by the end of fall ball.
Triple digits followed in the spring, and the Rangers couldn’t pass on Hales in the fourth round in 2023. Now a robust 220 pounds, he is eclipsing 100 mph.
Hales finished the 2024 season at Double-A Frisco and was dispatched to the Arizona Fall League for another test that should serve him well after the first full season of his career.
“It’s kind of going along with the learning curve,” Hales said. “The beginning of the year was a little tough because I didn’t have my full routine yet. I thought it was like college.”
His innings count was similar to his time at Santa Clara, but he was pitching more frequently as a full-fledged reliever. He found a regimen that worked for him and helped him stay healthy for 56.2 innings in 44 appearances in 2024.
Hales posted a 3.18 ERA at two stops with 10 saves with 66 strikeouts and 17 walks. He pitched just 5.2 innings in the AFL, but he got in ample side work trying to make his slider more consistent and was toying with a splitter.
He appears to be on an accelerated track to the big leagues as part of a small group of hard-throwing minor league relievers. Hales, though, is trying not to look too far ahead.
“When I was getting (promoted) every step along the way, it’s like one step closer,” Hales said. “But you’ve got to take a step back. You can’t get consumed with that because you can get too eager.”
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BP's 2025 Tigers Top Prospects: https://www.baseballprospectus.com/pros ... prospects/
9.Jaden Hamm
Pos: RHP
Born: 2002-09-05
B: Right
T: Right
H: 6′ 1″
W: 190 lbs.
History: Drafted in the fifth round of the 2023 draft, Middle Tennessee State; signed for $397,500.
Previous Rank: NR
Major League ETA: 2027
Year Team Level Age W L SV G GS IP H HR BB% K% K GB% BABIP WHIP ERA DRA
2023 F-TIG ROK 20 0 0 0 1 1 1.0 0 0 0.0% 33.3% 1 100.0% .000 0.00 0.00 –
2023 LAK Lo-A 20 0 0 0 4 4 11.0 3 0 2.6% 28.9% 11 38.5% .115 0.36 0.00 4.36
2024 WM Hi-A 21 5 4 0 24 23 99.0 73 8 7.8% 30.6% 122 36.8% .278 1.05 2.64 3.24
The Report: Hamm struggled some with a switch from the bullpen to the rotation his junior year at Middle Tennessee State in 2023, but an analytically-friendly repertoire found him off the board in the fifth round. The pick is paying dividends quickly as he looked like a future above-average starter during his time at West Michigan last season. Hamm sits mostly in the low 90s but his fastball gets big ride from his high slot, and he’s good at locating it up in the zone. It is more hittable down towards hitter’s thighs though and he sits back in his delivery before really extending over the top, which leads him to sail the heater at times, as well. From there he peppers a mid-80s change with some sink and a low-80s curve that really falls off a shelf from his release point. Guessing which pitch is going to do what is a challenge for High-A batters, but Hamm will need to show further command improvements up the ladder. He has the makings of three above-average pitches already though.
OFP: 55 / no. 3/4 starter
Variance: Medium. Hamm threw almost 100 innings in 2024, but that still comes out to just a hair over four innings a start, and the delivery and command profile can look relieverish through a certain lens.
9.Jaden Hamm
Pos: RHP
Born: 2002-09-05
B: Right
T: Right
H: 6′ 1″
W: 190 lbs.
History: Drafted in the fifth round of the 2023 draft, Middle Tennessee State; signed for $397,500.
Previous Rank: NR
Major League ETA: 2027
Year Team Level Age W L SV G GS IP H HR BB% K% K GB% BABIP WHIP ERA DRA
2023 F-TIG ROK 20 0 0 0 1 1 1.0 0 0 0.0% 33.3% 1 100.0% .000 0.00 0.00 –
2023 LAK Lo-A 20 0 0 0 4 4 11.0 3 0 2.6% 28.9% 11 38.5% .115 0.36 0.00 4.36
2024 WM Hi-A 21 5 4 0 24 23 99.0 73 8 7.8% 30.6% 122 36.8% .278 1.05 2.64 3.24
The Report: Hamm struggled some with a switch from the bullpen to the rotation his junior year at Middle Tennessee State in 2023, but an analytically-friendly repertoire found him off the board in the fifth round. The pick is paying dividends quickly as he looked like a future above-average starter during his time at West Michigan last season. Hamm sits mostly in the low 90s but his fastball gets big ride from his high slot, and he’s good at locating it up in the zone. It is more hittable down towards hitter’s thighs though and he sits back in his delivery before really extending over the top, which leads him to sail the heater at times, as well. From there he peppers a mid-80s change with some sink and a low-80s curve that really falls off a shelf from his release point. Guessing which pitch is going to do what is a challenge for High-A batters, but Hamm will need to show further command improvements up the ladder. He has the makings of three above-average pitches already though.
OFP: 55 / no. 3/4 starter
Variance: Medium. Hamm threw almost 100 innings in 2024, but that still comes out to just a hair over four innings a start, and the delivery and command profile can look relieverish through a certain lens.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BA's 2025 Top 100 Prospects: https://www.baseballamerica.com/ranking ... prospects/
9. Andrew Painter, RHP
19. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF
43. Jeferson Quero, C
55. Cam Smith, 3B
64. Owen Caissie, OF
99. Nolan McLean, RHP
9. Andrew Painter, RHP
19. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF
43. Jeferson Quero, C
55. Cam Smith, 3B
64. Owen Caissie, OF
99. Nolan McLean, RHP
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BP's 2025 Guardians Top Prospects: https://www.baseballprospectus.com/pros ... prospects/
7.Juan Brito
Pos: IF
Born: 2001-09-24
B: Switch
T: Right
H: 6′ 0″
W: 202 lbs.
History: Signed July 2018 by the Colorado Rockies out of the Dominican Republic for $60,000. Acquired from the Rockies for Nolan Jones.
Previous Rank: #3 (org), #100 (Top 101)
Major League ETA: 2025
Year Team Level Age PA R 2B 3B HR RBI BB K SB CS AVG OBP SLG DRC+ BABIP
2022 FRE Lo-A 20 497 91 29 6 11 72 78 71 17 9 .286 .407 .470 129 .319
2023 TOR WIN 21 16 3 1 0 1 3 3 4 0 0 .167 .313 .500 – .125
2023 LC Hi-A 21 161 29 9 0 4 14 24 21 3 1 .265 .379 .424 121 .282
2023 AKR AA 21 374 46 21 1 10 60 48 63 3 7 .276 .373 .444 120 .310
2023 COL AAA 21 20 1 1 0 0 1 6 4 1 0 .214 .450 .286 106 .300
2024 COL AAA 22 652 92 40 0 21 84 88 105 13 5 .256 .365 .443 108 .280
The Report: Brito’s top-line performance took a slight dip in 2024, his slight bump in power offset by the overall higher-offense environment of the International League. Nevertheless he remains broadly the same prospect he was coming into the season. He continues to make above-average swing decisions, chasing at an average rate while being aggressive in the zone. He hit more balls in the air, and while his exits tend to be fringy, that did result in a few more home runs, even if his hit tool looks more average than plus now. Brito did swing with more intent from the left side last year, and I think some of the newfound over-the-fence pop is real, and trading off a potential 60 hit/40 power profile for 50/55 isn’t the worst swap, especially given the inviting right field porch in Cleveland. Finding him a defensive home might be tricky as he might just be keeping second base warm for Travis Bazzana for a year-plus. Brito is stretched at shortstop due to his arm strength, but has logged some time at first base, third base, and corner outfield as well. The bat will play just fine at second base—where Brito should be a reliable 55 glove—but the medium-term roster fit might end up more super-utility if everything works out for the Guardians lineup over the next couple years. But then again, what are the odds of that happening exactly?
OFP: 55 / Above-average second baseman
Variance: Medium. Brito might just be the Guards opening day second baseman, and while he doesn’t have a ton of offensive upside, he should be at least an average regular pretty quickly. Although, I will note Bryan Rocchio did a similar pull-side optimization ploy in the upper minors without particularly loud exits, and wasn’t able to replicate that against major-league stuff. You can sometimes trade off a bit too much of your hit tool in these approach and swing path exchanges.
7.Juan Brito
Pos: IF
Born: 2001-09-24
B: Switch
T: Right
H: 6′ 0″
W: 202 lbs.
History: Signed July 2018 by the Colorado Rockies out of the Dominican Republic for $60,000. Acquired from the Rockies for Nolan Jones.
Previous Rank: #3 (org), #100 (Top 101)
Major League ETA: 2025
Year Team Level Age PA R 2B 3B HR RBI BB K SB CS AVG OBP SLG DRC+ BABIP
2022 FRE Lo-A 20 497 91 29 6 11 72 78 71 17 9 .286 .407 .470 129 .319
2023 TOR WIN 21 16 3 1 0 1 3 3 4 0 0 .167 .313 .500 – .125
2023 LC Hi-A 21 161 29 9 0 4 14 24 21 3 1 .265 .379 .424 121 .282
2023 AKR AA 21 374 46 21 1 10 60 48 63 3 7 .276 .373 .444 120 .310
2023 COL AAA 21 20 1 1 0 0 1 6 4 1 0 .214 .450 .286 106 .300
2024 COL AAA 22 652 92 40 0 21 84 88 105 13 5 .256 .365 .443 108 .280
The Report: Brito’s top-line performance took a slight dip in 2024, his slight bump in power offset by the overall higher-offense environment of the International League. Nevertheless he remains broadly the same prospect he was coming into the season. He continues to make above-average swing decisions, chasing at an average rate while being aggressive in the zone. He hit more balls in the air, and while his exits tend to be fringy, that did result in a few more home runs, even if his hit tool looks more average than plus now. Brito did swing with more intent from the left side last year, and I think some of the newfound over-the-fence pop is real, and trading off a potential 60 hit/40 power profile for 50/55 isn’t the worst swap, especially given the inviting right field porch in Cleveland. Finding him a defensive home might be tricky as he might just be keeping second base warm for Travis Bazzana for a year-plus. Brito is stretched at shortstop due to his arm strength, but has logged some time at first base, third base, and corner outfield as well. The bat will play just fine at second base—where Brito should be a reliable 55 glove—but the medium-term roster fit might end up more super-utility if everything works out for the Guardians lineup over the next couple years. But then again, what are the odds of that happening exactly?
OFP: 55 / Above-average second baseman
Variance: Medium. Brito might just be the Guards opening day second baseman, and while he doesn’t have a ton of offensive upside, he should be at least an average regular pretty quickly. Although, I will note Bryan Rocchio did a similar pull-side optimization ploy in the upper minors without particularly loud exits, and wasn’t able to replicate that against major-league stuff. You can sometimes trade off a bit too much of your hit tool in these approach and swing path exchanges.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From MLB Pipeline's 2025 Top 100 Prospects: https://www.mlb.com/milb/prospects/top100/
8. Andrew Painter, RHP
37. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF
47. Jeferson Quero, C
54. Owen Caissie, OF
59. Cam Smith, 3B
8. Andrew Painter, RHP
37. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF
47. Jeferson Quero, C
54. Owen Caissie, OF
59. Cam Smith, 3B
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From Keith Law's (Love him or hate him) 2025 Top 100 Prospects: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/607845 ... keith-law/
12. Andrew Painter, RHP
15. Jeferson Quero, C
21. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF
43. Cam Smith, 3B
56. Tyler Black, 1B
82. Enrique Bradfield, OF
94. Jaden Hamm, RHP
12. Andrew Painter, RHP
15. Jeferson Quero, C
21. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF
43. Cam Smith, 3B
56. Tyler Black, 1B
82. Enrique Bradfield, OF
94. Jaden Hamm, RHP
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BA: https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories ... 6-top-100/
Brody Hopkins, RHP, Rays
Hopkins was an outfielder who pitched a bit until very late in his college career at Winthrop. The Mariners loved his athleticism and potential on the mound, nabbing him as a sixth-rounder. Just two years later, he’s already looking like a steal. The Rays acquired him in the Randy Arozarena trade and were wowed with his low-slot, high-velocity fastball and his devastating slider. It’s hard to envision a scenario where a healthy Hopkins can’t at least be a useful reliever, but if he can keep improving his control, he could be a pretty unique and unusual lower-slot righthanded starter.
Brody Hopkins, RHP, Rays
Hopkins was an outfielder who pitched a bit until very late in his college career at Winthrop. The Mariners loved his athleticism and potential on the mound, nabbing him as a sixth-rounder. Just two years later, he’s already looking like a steal. The Rays acquired him in the Randy Arozarena trade and were wowed with his low-slot, high-velocity fastball and his devastating slider. It’s hard to envision a scenario where a healthy Hopkins can’t at least be a useful reliever, but if he can keep improving his control, he could be a pretty unique and unusual lower-slot righthanded starter.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BP's Cubs 2025 Top Prospects: https://www.baseballprospectus.com/pros ... prospects/
3.Owen Caissie
Pos: OF
Born: 2002-07-08
B: Left
T: Right
H: 6′ 3″
W: 190 lbs.
History: Drafted in the second round by the San Diego Padres in the 2020 draft, Notre Dame HS (Burlington, ON); signed for $1,200,004. Acquired from the Padres for Yu Darvish.
Previous Rank: #4 (org), #65 (org)
Major League ETA: 2025
Year Team Level Age PA R 2B 3B HR RBI BB K SB CS AVG OBP SLG DRC+ BABIP
2022 SB Hi-A 19 433 57 21 1 11 58 50 124 11 6 .254 .349 .402 98 .350
2023 TNS AA 20 528 77 31 2 22 84 76 164 7 9 .289 .398 .519 108 .407
2024 IOW AAA 21 549 69 29 3 19 75 71 156 11 2 .278 .375 .472 97 .375
The Report: Caissie hits baseballs about as hard as any prospect in the minors, yet posted only a .473 slugging percentage in a league that averaged .420. If you read the previous 25 lists you likely have a correct guess at the culprit, Caisse’s swing is not geared for either hard pulled contact or general fly-ball contact. He starts upright, slightly leaning back and then bends a bit at the waist, dips his hands, and tries to swat the ball back through its origin. He’s so strong he can hit it out to the big part of the park, but his combination of swing length and approach means he may hit a few too many warning track flies. When Caissie does pull a ball in the air—usually on a mistake offspeed—It’s capable of taking out low flying drones, but he just doesn’t do it enough. His approach can feel like Cubs-era Cody Bellinger, and given that unlike Bellinger, Caissie is likely to post below-average contact rates and play right field, he really needs to make the most of his power. He has always been a swing tweak away for his minor league career, but the longer he doesn’t get it, the less likely it feels.
OFP: 55 / Above-average right fielder
Variance: Medium. The closest comp in the International League to Caissie’s combo of high-end exit velocity and inability to pull the ball in the air was…uh, Brett Baty. —Jeffrey Paternostro
3.Owen Caissie
Pos: OF
Born: 2002-07-08
B: Left
T: Right
H: 6′ 3″
W: 190 lbs.
History: Drafted in the second round by the San Diego Padres in the 2020 draft, Notre Dame HS (Burlington, ON); signed for $1,200,004. Acquired from the Padres for Yu Darvish.
Previous Rank: #4 (org), #65 (org)
Major League ETA: 2025
Year Team Level Age PA R 2B 3B HR RBI BB K SB CS AVG OBP SLG DRC+ BABIP
2022 SB Hi-A 19 433 57 21 1 11 58 50 124 11 6 .254 .349 .402 98 .350
2023 TNS AA 20 528 77 31 2 22 84 76 164 7 9 .289 .398 .519 108 .407
2024 IOW AAA 21 549 69 29 3 19 75 71 156 11 2 .278 .375 .472 97 .375
The Report: Caissie hits baseballs about as hard as any prospect in the minors, yet posted only a .473 slugging percentage in a league that averaged .420. If you read the previous 25 lists you likely have a correct guess at the culprit, Caisse’s swing is not geared for either hard pulled contact or general fly-ball contact. He starts upright, slightly leaning back and then bends a bit at the waist, dips his hands, and tries to swat the ball back through its origin. He’s so strong he can hit it out to the big part of the park, but his combination of swing length and approach means he may hit a few too many warning track flies. When Caissie does pull a ball in the air—usually on a mistake offspeed—It’s capable of taking out low flying drones, but he just doesn’t do it enough. His approach can feel like Cubs-era Cody Bellinger, and given that unlike Bellinger, Caissie is likely to post below-average contact rates and play right field, he really needs to make the most of his power. He has always been a swing tweak away for his minor league career, but the longer he doesn’t get it, the less likely it feels.
OFP: 55 / Above-average right fielder
Variance: Medium. The closest comp in the International League to Caissie’s combo of high-end exit velocity and inability to pull the ball in the air was…uh, Brett Baty. —Jeffrey Paternostro
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From MLB Pipeline: https://www.mlb.com/milb/news/each-mlb- ... e-coverage
Orioles: Enrique Bradfield Jr., OF
The O’s first-round pick in 2023, Bradfield brings two 70 or better grade tools to the table in his speed (actually an 80) and his defense in center field. He split his first full season between High-A and Double-A in 2024, finishing with a combined .272/.358/.371 line and 74 steals, trailing only Chandler Simpson in all of the Minors in that category. He actually performed better at Double-A (133 wRC+) than High-A (106 wRC+) and he has a chance to be a real table-setting catalyst atop a big league lineup soon.
Nationals: Brady House, 3B (No. 7 3B)
House’s high chase rate at Triple-A scared some evaluators, and that led to his fall off the Top 100 for now. There are still things to like about the 2021 11th overall pick. For starters, he’s only 21 years old, and he reached the Minors’ top level ahead of the curve. There’s also still plus power potential in his 6-foot-4 frame, and he’s improved as a defender at third base after starting his career at short. He’ll have to hone his approach significantly in a return to Rochester, but House has time and age on his side.
Orioles: Enrique Bradfield Jr., OF
The O’s first-round pick in 2023, Bradfield brings two 70 or better grade tools to the table in his speed (actually an 80) and his defense in center field. He split his first full season between High-A and Double-A in 2024, finishing with a combined .272/.358/.371 line and 74 steals, trailing only Chandler Simpson in all of the Minors in that category. He actually performed better at Double-A (133 wRC+) than High-A (106 wRC+) and he has a chance to be a real table-setting catalyst atop a big league lineup soon.
Nationals: Brady House, 3B (No. 7 3B)
House’s high chase rate at Triple-A scared some evaluators, and that led to his fall off the Top 100 for now. There are still things to like about the 2021 11th overall pick. For starters, he’s only 21 years old, and he reached the Minors’ top level ahead of the curve. There’s also still plus power potential in his 6-foot-4 frame, and he’s improved as a defender at third base after starting his career at short. He’ll have to hone his approach significantly in a return to Rochester, but House has time and age on his side.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
Regarding the latest Braves draftee...
From BA: https://www.baseballamerica.com/teams/2 ... =preseason
1. Cam Smith
3B
Ht: 6'3" | Wt: 215 | B-T: R-R
Age: null
BA Grade/Risk: 55/High.
Track Record: Though Smith enjoyed a standout, 12-home run freshman campaign at Florida State, swing-and-miss concerns cast doubt across the scouting industry about his future. He played in the Cape Cod League in 2023 and hit .347/.406/.575 while showing a more well-rounded plate profile. The following spring, he hit .387/.488/.654 with 16 home runs as a draft-eligible FSU sophomore. Smith went 14th overall to the Cubs in 2024 and signed for $5.07 million. He debuted shortly after signing and jumped three levels to reach Double-A. His pro debut was arguably the most impressive of any 2024 draftee. He hit .313/.396/.609 with five doubles, four triples and seven home runs in 32 games. Smith was acquired by the Astros alongside infielder Isaac Paredes and righthanded pitcher Hayden Wesneski on Dec. 13.
Scouting Report: Over the last two years, Smith has matured from a pure power prospect with heavy swing-and-miss to a well-balanced hitter with a blend of contact, approach and power. He shows above-average bat-to-ball skills and does consistent damage against fastballs and offspeed. He still struggles with swing-and-miss against breaking pitches but mitigates some of these concerns with good swing decisions. Smith’s power plays easily as plus in games, and he knows how to get to it consistently. His power plays to all fields, and he doesn’t sell out for pull-side lift. A good athlete, Smith is an average runner who will show an above-average run time from time to time. He is a below-average defender at third base and will get out of sync with his hands, actions and footwork at times. Still, Smith’s plus arm allows him to make plays at third, and he could fit in an outfield corner as well.
The Future: Smith is an advanced hitter with on-base skills and power. Questions about his future defensive position persist, but his above-average bat should be a fit anywhere on the diamond.
Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 60 | Run: 50 | Field: 40 | Arm: 60.
From BP: https://www.baseballprospectus.com/pros ... prospects/
1.Cam Smith
Pos: 3B
Born: 2003-02-22
B: Right
T: Right
H: 6′ 3″
W: 224 lbs.
History: Drafted 14th overall by the Chicago Cubs in the 2024 draft, Florida State University; signed for $5,070,700. Acquired from the Cubs for Kyle Tucker.
Previous Rank: NR
Major League ETA: 2026
Year Team Level Age PA R 2B 3B HR RBI BB K SB CS AVG OBP SLG DRC+ BABIP
2024 MB Lo-A 21 57 10 2 1 6 12 8 12 1 0 .313 .404 .771 150 .290
2024 SB Hi-A 21 57 6 3 1 1 9 6 9 1 1 .333 .421 .500 105 .385
2024 TNS AA 21 20 4 0 2 0 3 1 3 0 0 .263 .300 .474 100 .313
The Report: After a strong performance on the Cape before his (draft-eligible) sophomore season, Smith kept mashing against ACC competition, seeing huge year-over-year gains in his contact rate and exit velocities. A small tweak to his setup unlocked a 1.000+ OPS in college, and he continued to mash in the pros after the draft. Smith hasn’t hit for a ton of over-the-fence power relative to some of the other top college bats in last year’s draft due to a fairly flat swing plane, so any tweaks to his attack angle to emphasize lift and/or pull could really unlock some serious offensive upside, but he’s a high-probability good major-league regular, projecting for above-average hit and power tools at present. Smith is also a plus defender at third, and has played some shortstop in the past. Both those spots are presently occupied in Houston, and GM Dana Brown has mentioned possibly trying him at first base or left field as well, but honestly, he should be allowed to hit his way to the majors at the hot corner.
OFP: 60 / First-division third baseman
Variance: Medium. Smith has only shown these significant offensive gains for about a calendar year and there is the risk he gives some of them back against better secondary stuff. Conversely there are some orgs that believe this kind of quick jump against college competition portends further development in the pros.
From BA: https://www.baseballamerica.com/teams/2 ... =preseason
1. Cam Smith
3B
Ht: 6'3" | Wt: 215 | B-T: R-R
Age: null
BA Grade/Risk: 55/High.
Track Record: Though Smith enjoyed a standout, 12-home run freshman campaign at Florida State, swing-and-miss concerns cast doubt across the scouting industry about his future. He played in the Cape Cod League in 2023 and hit .347/.406/.575 while showing a more well-rounded plate profile. The following spring, he hit .387/.488/.654 with 16 home runs as a draft-eligible FSU sophomore. Smith went 14th overall to the Cubs in 2024 and signed for $5.07 million. He debuted shortly after signing and jumped three levels to reach Double-A. His pro debut was arguably the most impressive of any 2024 draftee. He hit .313/.396/.609 with five doubles, four triples and seven home runs in 32 games. Smith was acquired by the Astros alongside infielder Isaac Paredes and righthanded pitcher Hayden Wesneski on Dec. 13.
Scouting Report: Over the last two years, Smith has matured from a pure power prospect with heavy swing-and-miss to a well-balanced hitter with a blend of contact, approach and power. He shows above-average bat-to-ball skills and does consistent damage against fastballs and offspeed. He still struggles with swing-and-miss against breaking pitches but mitigates some of these concerns with good swing decisions. Smith’s power plays easily as plus in games, and he knows how to get to it consistently. His power plays to all fields, and he doesn’t sell out for pull-side lift. A good athlete, Smith is an average runner who will show an above-average run time from time to time. He is a below-average defender at third base and will get out of sync with his hands, actions and footwork at times. Still, Smith’s plus arm allows him to make plays at third, and he could fit in an outfield corner as well.
The Future: Smith is an advanced hitter with on-base skills and power. Questions about his future defensive position persist, but his above-average bat should be a fit anywhere on the diamond.
Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 60 | Run: 50 | Field: 40 | Arm: 60.
From BP: https://www.baseballprospectus.com/pros ... prospects/
1.Cam Smith
Pos: 3B
Born: 2003-02-22
B: Right
T: Right
H: 6′ 3″
W: 224 lbs.
History: Drafted 14th overall by the Chicago Cubs in the 2024 draft, Florida State University; signed for $5,070,700. Acquired from the Cubs for Kyle Tucker.
Previous Rank: NR
Major League ETA: 2026
Year Team Level Age PA R 2B 3B HR RBI BB K SB CS AVG OBP SLG DRC+ BABIP
2024 MB Lo-A 21 57 10 2 1 6 12 8 12 1 0 .313 .404 .771 150 .290
2024 SB Hi-A 21 57 6 3 1 1 9 6 9 1 1 .333 .421 .500 105 .385
2024 TNS AA 21 20 4 0 2 0 3 1 3 0 0 .263 .300 .474 100 .313
The Report: After a strong performance on the Cape before his (draft-eligible) sophomore season, Smith kept mashing against ACC competition, seeing huge year-over-year gains in his contact rate and exit velocities. A small tweak to his setup unlocked a 1.000+ OPS in college, and he continued to mash in the pros after the draft. Smith hasn’t hit for a ton of over-the-fence power relative to some of the other top college bats in last year’s draft due to a fairly flat swing plane, so any tweaks to his attack angle to emphasize lift and/or pull could really unlock some serious offensive upside, but he’s a high-probability good major-league regular, projecting for above-average hit and power tools at present. Smith is also a plus defender at third, and has played some shortstop in the past. Both those spots are presently occupied in Houston, and GM Dana Brown has mentioned possibly trying him at first base or left field as well, but honestly, he should be allowed to hit his way to the majors at the hot corner.
OFP: 60 / First-division third baseman
Variance: Medium. Smith has only shown these significant offensive gains for about a calendar year and there is the risk he gives some of them back against better secondary stuff. Conversely there are some orgs that believe this kind of quick jump against college competition portends further development in the pros.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BP's 2025 Orioles Top Prospects: https://www.baseballprospectus.com/pros ... prospects/
3.Enrique Bradfield Jr.
Pos: OF
Born: 2001-12-02
B: Left
T: Left
H: 6′ 1″
W: 170 lbs.
History: Drafted 17th overall in the 2023 draft, Vanderbilt University; signed for $4,169,700.
Previous Rank: #6 (org), #82 (Top 101)
Major League ETA: Late 2025/Early 2026
Year Team Level Age PA R 2B 3B HR RBI BB K SB CS AVG OBP SLG DRC+ BABIP
2023 F-ORI ROK 21 12 4 1 0 0 0 3 3 1 0 .556 .667 .667 – .833
2023 DEL Lo-A 21 77 15 2 0 0 6 19 9 20 2 .302 .494 .340 137 .348
2023 ABD Hi-A 21 21 3 0 0 0 0 4 4 4 0 .118 .286 .118 99 .154
2024 ABD Hi-A 22 349 63 14 3 3 26 35 58 59 9 .267 .345 .363 111 .317
2024 BOW AA 22 120 25 4 2 1 9 15 14 15 4 .287 .395 .396 125 .326
The Report: Bradfield is the odd man out of this group of top Orioles prospects. Even if we generously granted him a boost to both his current hit and power projections, speed and defense would still be carrying the profile. Bradfield is one of the fastest players in organized baseball at any level, and he translates his elite foot speed into excellent center field defense. It’s the rare game-breaking speed and glove combo that would merit a Top 101 ranking even if he couldn’t hit a lick. And his bat isn’t that bad. Bradfield combines a solid approach with good contact rates and while that fantasized power jump above would only get him to a 40, we’re comfortable with a 30 at present and every little bit helps.
Bradfield is never going to try and impact the ball a ton, favoring an rhythmic leg lift and weight transfer and easy stroke that allows him to point the ball back up the middle rather than lift fly balls. Any medium-hit ground ball here is a potential hit, and any slow roller is going in the infielder’s pocket. Bradfield’s lack of power will limit his offensive ceiling but even an OPS that just scrapes over .700—as in his 2024 stint in the Sally League—should be more than enough.
OFP: 55 / Above-average center fielder
Variance: Medium. Bradfield has a distinct risk type from Mayo but similar overall variance. His speed and defense skillset is going to be both valuable and stable, at least for the next 3-5 seasons or so, and the league is beginning to tilt towards starting this kind of up-the-middle defender even if he has to hit ninth. However Bradfield’s bat hasn’t been tested in the upper minors save for a solid last month of the season for Bowie, and if better defenses start hovering up some of his would-be base hits…well, it’s harder to pencil a .600 OPS in the lineup every day.
3.Enrique Bradfield Jr.
Pos: OF
Born: 2001-12-02
B: Left
T: Left
H: 6′ 1″
W: 170 lbs.
History: Drafted 17th overall in the 2023 draft, Vanderbilt University; signed for $4,169,700.
Previous Rank: #6 (org), #82 (Top 101)
Major League ETA: Late 2025/Early 2026
Year Team Level Age PA R 2B 3B HR RBI BB K SB CS AVG OBP SLG DRC+ BABIP
2023 F-ORI ROK 21 12 4 1 0 0 0 3 3 1 0 .556 .667 .667 – .833
2023 DEL Lo-A 21 77 15 2 0 0 6 19 9 20 2 .302 .494 .340 137 .348
2023 ABD Hi-A 21 21 3 0 0 0 0 4 4 4 0 .118 .286 .118 99 .154
2024 ABD Hi-A 22 349 63 14 3 3 26 35 58 59 9 .267 .345 .363 111 .317
2024 BOW AA 22 120 25 4 2 1 9 15 14 15 4 .287 .395 .396 125 .326
The Report: Bradfield is the odd man out of this group of top Orioles prospects. Even if we generously granted him a boost to both his current hit and power projections, speed and defense would still be carrying the profile. Bradfield is one of the fastest players in organized baseball at any level, and he translates his elite foot speed into excellent center field defense. It’s the rare game-breaking speed and glove combo that would merit a Top 101 ranking even if he couldn’t hit a lick. And his bat isn’t that bad. Bradfield combines a solid approach with good contact rates and while that fantasized power jump above would only get him to a 40, we’re comfortable with a 30 at present and every little bit helps.
Bradfield is never going to try and impact the ball a ton, favoring an rhythmic leg lift and weight transfer and easy stroke that allows him to point the ball back up the middle rather than lift fly balls. Any medium-hit ground ball here is a potential hit, and any slow roller is going in the infielder’s pocket. Bradfield’s lack of power will limit his offensive ceiling but even an OPS that just scrapes over .700—as in his 2024 stint in the Sally League—should be more than enough.
OFP: 55 / Above-average center fielder
Variance: Medium. Bradfield has a distinct risk type from Mayo but similar overall variance. His speed and defense skillset is going to be both valuable and stable, at least for the next 3-5 seasons or so, and the league is beginning to tilt towards starting this kind of up-the-middle defender even if he has to hit ninth. However Bradfield’s bat hasn’t been tested in the upper minors save for a solid last month of the season for Bowie, and if better defenses start hovering up some of his would-be base hits…well, it’s harder to pencil a .600 OPS in the lineup every day.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BA: https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories ... following/
Exactly one month after he was acquired from the Cubs, 22-year-old third baseman Cam Smith made a good impression on the Astros when he reported to West Palm Beach, Fla., for an early minicamp with his new organization.
He was one of 50 minor leaguers—and the top prospect—present.
“He showed up ready to work, and that’s exciting to see,” Astros senior director of player development Jacob Buffa said.
The Astros were excited to add Smith to their system after acquiring him along with all-star third baseman Isaac Paredes in the Kyle Tucker trade. The Cubs drafted Smith 14th overall out of Florida State.
Smith signed early enough to play 32 games in his pro debut, reaching Double-A Tennessee for a week. At three minor league levels, he hit .313/.396/.609 with seven home runs in 32 games.
“From a performance standpoint, the thing that jumps out about Smith is the combination of contact and power,” Buffa said. “There’s not that many young athletes who can hit the ball as hard as he does and as often as he does.
“I do think, in speaking with him, the one thing that stands out is that there just seems to be a plus-plus makeup from this kid. He’s already willing to do anything that we ask.”
Astros GM Dana Brown, who made his name in amateur scouting, saw Smith play last year at FSU.
“Cam Smith is an impact bat with power,” Brown said.
Brown says the Astros will likely play Smith at third base, first base and right field this season.
“If his bat comes really quickly, we’ll move him quickly,” Brown said. “Whichever position he’s playing the best, we’ll probably put him at that position as he moves up . . . He played some third base at Double-A, and so he had a pretty good pro debut, as you can probably see (from) the stats.
“He was really highly touted in college . . . It’s a really good first-round college bat with power with a chance to hit. He’s pretty athletic as well. We’re really excited about Cam Smith.”
Exactly one month after he was acquired from the Cubs, 22-year-old third baseman Cam Smith made a good impression on the Astros when he reported to West Palm Beach, Fla., for an early minicamp with his new organization.
He was one of 50 minor leaguers—and the top prospect—present.
“He showed up ready to work, and that’s exciting to see,” Astros senior director of player development Jacob Buffa said.
The Astros were excited to add Smith to their system after acquiring him along with all-star third baseman Isaac Paredes in the Kyle Tucker trade. The Cubs drafted Smith 14th overall out of Florida State.
Smith signed early enough to play 32 games in his pro debut, reaching Double-A Tennessee for a week. At three minor league levels, he hit .313/.396/.609 with seven home runs in 32 games.
“From a performance standpoint, the thing that jumps out about Smith is the combination of contact and power,” Buffa said. “There’s not that many young athletes who can hit the ball as hard as he does and as often as he does.
“I do think, in speaking with him, the one thing that stands out is that there just seems to be a plus-plus makeup from this kid. He’s already willing to do anything that we ask.”
Astros GM Dana Brown, who made his name in amateur scouting, saw Smith play last year at FSU.
“Cam Smith is an impact bat with power,” Brown said.
Brown says the Astros will likely play Smith at third base, first base and right field this season.
“If his bat comes really quickly, we’ll move him quickly,” Brown said. “Whichever position he’s playing the best, we’ll probably put him at that position as he moves up . . . He played some third base at Double-A, and so he had a pretty good pro debut, as you can probably see (from) the stats.
“He was really highly touted in college . . . It’s a really good first-round college bat with power with a chance to hit. He’s pretty athletic as well. We’re really excited about Cam Smith.”
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BA: https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories ... readiness/
The Twins are grateful that 22-year-old outfielder Emmanuel Rodriguez grew up in the Dominican Republic, where he never had a chance to play American football.
Otherwise, Twins manager Rocco Baldelli believes, Rodriguez might be wearing shoulder pads and a helmet today.
Rodriguez’s thighs “are the size of Emmitt Smith’s,” Baldelli said in reference to the NFL’s all-time leading rusher after watching Rodriguez crush a long spring-training home run against all-star closer Craig Kimbrel a year ago. “He’s a tank.”
Those tank treads—er, muscular legs—may drive E-Rod, as his teammates sometimes call him, to Target Field sometime in 2025.
Rodriguez was limited to just 47 games in 2024 because of a nagging thumb injury that made swinging a bat painful. But offseason surgery, “sort of a clean-up procedure,” according to Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey, has solved the problem.
Now, Falvey said, “I’m excited about spring training and seeing a healthy version on him with a little taste of Triple-A—what that could look like.”
If it looks anything like the progress he showed when healthy in 2024, Rodriguez could find himself in the Twins’ lineup by midseason.
The center fielder opened last season with two incredible months at the plate for Double-A Wichita that produced a .298/.479/.621 batting line with eight home runs and nine stolen bases in 37 games.
Perhaps even more impressive, Falvey said, was his plate discipline. Rodriguez drew walks in 25% percent of his plate appearances and refuses to chase out of the zone. In fact, his power, patience and speed enticed the Twins to give Rodriguez a one-week look at Triple-A St. Paul at season’s end.
“Emma has such a unique profile. It’s almost impossible to look at that profile and say how it’s going to translate to the big leagues, because no one else has it,” Falvey said. “That ability to hit for power but also get on base so much, he’s a lot closer than we think.”
The Twins are grateful that 22-year-old outfielder Emmanuel Rodriguez grew up in the Dominican Republic, where he never had a chance to play American football.
Otherwise, Twins manager Rocco Baldelli believes, Rodriguez might be wearing shoulder pads and a helmet today.
Rodriguez’s thighs “are the size of Emmitt Smith’s,” Baldelli said in reference to the NFL’s all-time leading rusher after watching Rodriguez crush a long spring-training home run against all-star closer Craig Kimbrel a year ago. “He’s a tank.”
Those tank treads—er, muscular legs—may drive E-Rod, as his teammates sometimes call him, to Target Field sometime in 2025.
Rodriguez was limited to just 47 games in 2024 because of a nagging thumb injury that made swinging a bat painful. But offseason surgery, “sort of a clean-up procedure,” according to Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey, has solved the problem.
Now, Falvey said, “I’m excited about spring training and seeing a healthy version on him with a little taste of Triple-A—what that could look like.”
If it looks anything like the progress he showed when healthy in 2024, Rodriguez could find himself in the Twins’ lineup by midseason.
The center fielder opened last season with two incredible months at the plate for Double-A Wichita that produced a .298/.479/.621 batting line with eight home runs and nine stolen bases in 37 games.
Perhaps even more impressive, Falvey said, was his plate discipline. Rodriguez drew walks in 25% percent of his plate appearances and refuses to chase out of the zone. In fact, his power, patience and speed enticed the Twins to give Rodriguez a one-week look at Triple-A St. Paul at season’s end.
“Emma has such a unique profile. It’s almost impossible to look at that profile and say how it’s going to translate to the big leagues, because no one else has it,” Falvey said. “That ability to hit for power but also get on base so much, he’s a lot closer than we think.”
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BA: https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories ... lost-year/
Catcher Jeferson Quero would have made his major league debut for the Brewers in 2024 had he not suffered a right shoulder injury on a head-first dive back into first base following his first plate appearance of the year with Triple-A Nashville.
Extensive surgery to repair a torn labrum followed. The procedure sidelined Quero for the entirety of his age-21 season.
“You’re hoping that it’s just kind of a minor subluxation of the shoulder. And then all of a sudden, you hear the severity of the injury and you’re just crushed,” Brewers assistant farm director Brenton Del Chiaro said. “You can’t help but feel devastated for the kid.”
Fortunately for all involved, one of the traits that helped Quero become one of the top catching prospects in baseball was his competitiveness. And that’s what helped Quero through the rehab process that he was familiar with, having had labrum surgery on his left shoulder in 2021.
“Basically, day by day, I’m thinking God’s got a purpose for everything,” Quero said. “If God let this happen, it’s for a reason, and I’m learning from this and I hopefully will come back and be stronger.”
Heading into camp this spring, Quero is well positioned as a member of the 40-man roster to make his MLB debut during the season.
Quero was awarded the Rawlings minor league Gold Glove in 2023, with his throwing arm arguably his best tool.
“I think the No. 1 thing in terms of trusting anything after an injury is time and preparation,” Brewers vice president of player development Cam Castro said. “You’ve given this thing adequate time, and you prepared for this moment and relying on those two things.
“We didn’t rush through the calendar. We did this thing responsibly.”
Quero hit a career-high 16 home runs in 90 games for Double-A Biloxi in 2023, and the organization believes there is more power potential to go along with solid bat-to-ball skills for someone who looks like a future impact catcher.
Catcher Jeferson Quero would have made his major league debut for the Brewers in 2024 had he not suffered a right shoulder injury on a head-first dive back into first base following his first plate appearance of the year with Triple-A Nashville.
Extensive surgery to repair a torn labrum followed. The procedure sidelined Quero for the entirety of his age-21 season.
“You’re hoping that it’s just kind of a minor subluxation of the shoulder. And then all of a sudden, you hear the severity of the injury and you’re just crushed,” Brewers assistant farm director Brenton Del Chiaro said. “You can’t help but feel devastated for the kid.”
Fortunately for all involved, one of the traits that helped Quero become one of the top catching prospects in baseball was his competitiveness. And that’s what helped Quero through the rehab process that he was familiar with, having had labrum surgery on his left shoulder in 2021.
“Basically, day by day, I’m thinking God’s got a purpose for everything,” Quero said. “If God let this happen, it’s for a reason, and I’m learning from this and I hopefully will come back and be stronger.”
Heading into camp this spring, Quero is well positioned as a member of the 40-man roster to make his MLB debut during the season.
Quero was awarded the Rawlings minor league Gold Glove in 2023, with his throwing arm arguably his best tool.
“I think the No. 1 thing in terms of trusting anything after an injury is time and preparation,” Brewers vice president of player development Cam Castro said. “You’ve given this thing adequate time, and you prepared for this moment and relying on those two things.
“We didn’t rush through the calendar. We did this thing responsibly.”
Quero hit a career-high 16 home runs in 90 games for Double-A Biloxi in 2023, and the organization believes there is more power potential to go along with solid bat-to-ball skills for someone who looks like a future impact catcher.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From FG's 2025 Top 100 Prospects: https://blogs.fangraphs.com/2025-top-100-prospects/
6. Andrew Painter, RHP
20. Emmanuel Rodriguez, CF
60. Braxton Ashcraft, RHP
70. Cam Smith, 3B
75. Brody Hopkins, RHP
78. Juan Brito, 2B
91. Edgardo Henriquez, RHP
99. Jeferson Quero, C
6. Andrew Painter, RHP
20. Emmanuel Rodriguez, CF
60. Braxton Ashcraft, RHP
70. Cam Smith, 3B
75. Brody Hopkins, RHP
78. Juan Brito, 2B
91. Edgardo Henriquez, RHP
99. Jeferson Quero, C
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From MLB Pipeline's Prospects to Watch: https://www.mlb.com/milb/news/prospects ... e-coverage
Mets: Luisangel Acuña, SS/2B/OF
Acuña had a down year in Triple-A Syracuse due to extreme chase rates but was a spark of energy as a fast, defensively capable injury replacement at shortstop for Francisco Lindor late in the Major League season. That was in a small sample, so an extended look this spring will give the Mets a better idea of where his offensive approach is heading into 2025. Jeff McNeil and Nick Madrigal figure to be second-base options, but don’t rule out Acuña banging down the door as a potential plus defender there alongside Lindor.
Nationals: Brady House, 3B
A former Top 100 prospect, House slipped outside of that ranking this offseason after a high chase rate at Triple-A caused him to post just a .280 on-base percentage in 54 games with Rochester. The Nationals still believe he can be a big part of their future because of his power potential, improving defense and youth at just 21 years old, but they’ll monitor House closely this spring to see how he adjusted. José Tena might have the hot corner for now, but you can bet Washington would love House to win the job himself.
Phillies: Andrew Painter, RHP (MLB No.
OK, so this is wishful thinking on our part. Nobody doubts that Painter could get big league hitters out right now. But given that he’s thrown just 15 2/3 innings in the Arizona Fall League over the past two years following his elbow injury and surgery, the Phillies are going to slow roll him out of the gate and he’s unlikely to get Grapefruit League innings. But guaranteed he’s impressing in bullpens and live BPs, and there’s a good chance they’re saving him now so he can be available in Philadelphia come October.
Mets: Luisangel Acuña, SS/2B/OF
Acuña had a down year in Triple-A Syracuse due to extreme chase rates but was a spark of energy as a fast, defensively capable injury replacement at shortstop for Francisco Lindor late in the Major League season. That was in a small sample, so an extended look this spring will give the Mets a better idea of where his offensive approach is heading into 2025. Jeff McNeil and Nick Madrigal figure to be second-base options, but don’t rule out Acuña banging down the door as a potential plus defender there alongside Lindor.
Nationals: Brady House, 3B
A former Top 100 prospect, House slipped outside of that ranking this offseason after a high chase rate at Triple-A caused him to post just a .280 on-base percentage in 54 games with Rochester. The Nationals still believe he can be a big part of their future because of his power potential, improving defense and youth at just 21 years old, but they’ll monitor House closely this spring to see how he adjusted. José Tena might have the hot corner for now, but you can bet Washington would love House to win the job himself.
Phillies: Andrew Painter, RHP (MLB No.
OK, so this is wishful thinking on our part. Nobody doubts that Painter could get big league hitters out right now. But given that he’s thrown just 15 2/3 innings in the Arizona Fall League over the past two years following his elbow injury and surgery, the Phillies are going to slow roll him out of the gate and he’s unlikely to get Grapefruit League innings. But guaranteed he’s impressing in bullpens and live BPs, and there’s a good chance they’re saving him now so he can be available in Philadelphia come October.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
BA Reports on the Braves newest draftees:
12. Braylon Doughty (https://www.baseballamerica.com/teams/2 ... =preseason)
RHP
Ht: 6'1" | Wt: 196 | B-T: R-R
Age: null
BA Grade/Risk: 55/Extreme.
Track Record: Doughty ranked as the No. 47 prospect in the 2024 class on the back of his tremendous feel to spin the ball. The Guardians signed him for slot value—a $2,569,200 bonus—with the 36th overall pick in the draft to coax him out of a commitment to Oklahoma State.
Scouting Report: A 6-foot-1, 196-pound righthander, Doughty is a standout athlete who operates with a smooth, balanced, low-effort delivery. He has a clean and loose arm action and throws from a three-quarters slot he repeats well for a teenage pitcher. Doughty dominated his SoCal competition during the spring with a low-90s fastball that has been up to 96-97 mph and a pair of high-spin, plus breaking balls. His 78-80 mph downer curveball registers spin rates in the 3,200 rpm range and he pairs it with a hard slider in the mid 80s with similarly high pure spin rates. While both pitches have plus potential, Cleveland might have Doughty focus on the curveball initially. The curve immediately becomes a candidate for the best breaking ball in Cleveland’s system thanks to its depth and his feel to land it. Doughty has thrown a mid-80s changeup but it lagged behind his other three pitches in high school. His clean operation and athleticism could lead to above-average control.
The Future: Doughty is a high-upside righty with natural athleticism. He’s a scratch golfer and kicked a 60-yard field goal in high school. He has midrotation upside and should start the 2025 season with Low-A Lynchburg.
Scouting Grades: Fastball: 55 | Curveball: 65 | Slider: 60 | Changeup: 45 | Control: 50.
12. Kevin Alvarez (https://www.baseballamerica.com/teams/2 ... =preseason)
OF
Ht: 6'4" | Wt: 184 | B-T: L-L
Age: null
BA Grade/Risk: 50/Extreme.
Track Record: The star of the 2025 international signing class for the Astros. Alvarez is a Cuban outfielder who signed for $2 million with plenty of buzz. There’s still a lot of space for Alvarez to add good weight to his tall, lean frame (6-foot-4, 185 pounds) to enhance an already promising foundation of hitting ability.
Scouting Report: Alvarez is a lefty with long limbs that he’s able to sync up well at the plate to keep his swing direct and efficient, making contact at a high clip and spreading the ball around the field. Alvarez has grown a couple inches into his current height since many clubs were scouting him, and while it’s still a hit-over-power game right now, there’s significant projection for Alvarez to grow into bigger home run sock once he packs on more muscle. Alvarez has an above-average arm and good defensive instincts in center field, but he’s an average runner, so with his size, he probably will ultimately make his way to a corner.
The Future: Alvarez will be one of the bigger names to debut in 2025 from the recent IFA period, he has potential to hit his way into the Astros Top 10 Prospects by year end.
Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 55 | Run: 50 | Field: 50 | Arm: 55.
13. Kyle DeBarge (https://www.baseballamerica.com/teams/2 ... =preseason)
SS / 2B
Ht: 5'9" | Wt: 170 | B-T: R-R
Age: null
BA Grade/Risk: 50/High.
Track Record: When DeBarge arrived at Louisiana-Lafayette, he was a catcher who had been a team leader for Louisiana 5A state champions Lake Charles’ Barbe High. But from day one of his freshman season, DeBarge was the Ragin Caguns’ shortstop. He started all 60 games as a freshman, got even better as a sophomore and then hit .355/.418/.699 in his draft year with 21 home runs–he’d had 22 total extra-base hits the year before. The Twins drafted him with their supplemental first round pick.
Scouting Report: DeBarge is yet another productive college middle infielder who shows the ability to hit, run and play solid defense. The Twins have had solid success in drafting and developing players like this, with Luke Keaschall being the most prominent recent example. DeBarge has long shown he has above-average contact skills. He was a .338 hitter in college and even though his surface-level numbers didn’t show it, he had well above-average miss and zone-miss rates in his pro debut. He doesn’t chase much and shows solid pitch recognition. DeBarge is also a plus runner who terrorized Florida State League batteries. He stole 10 bases in 10 tries in his first 12 pro games and finished with 15 steals in just 26 games. Defensively he played both shortstop and second in his debut. He’s average at shortstop and should be above-average or better at second with an above-average arm.
The Future: DeBarge’s well-rounded skill set gives him a lot of ways to help a big league club. He should spend most of 2025 at High-A Cedar Rapids.
Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 40 | Run: 60 | Field: 50 | Arm: 55.
12. Braylon Doughty (https://www.baseballamerica.com/teams/2 ... =preseason)
RHP
Ht: 6'1" | Wt: 196 | B-T: R-R
Age: null
BA Grade/Risk: 55/Extreme.
Track Record: Doughty ranked as the No. 47 prospect in the 2024 class on the back of his tremendous feel to spin the ball. The Guardians signed him for slot value—a $2,569,200 bonus—with the 36th overall pick in the draft to coax him out of a commitment to Oklahoma State.
Scouting Report: A 6-foot-1, 196-pound righthander, Doughty is a standout athlete who operates with a smooth, balanced, low-effort delivery. He has a clean and loose arm action and throws from a three-quarters slot he repeats well for a teenage pitcher. Doughty dominated his SoCal competition during the spring with a low-90s fastball that has been up to 96-97 mph and a pair of high-spin, plus breaking balls. His 78-80 mph downer curveball registers spin rates in the 3,200 rpm range and he pairs it with a hard slider in the mid 80s with similarly high pure spin rates. While both pitches have plus potential, Cleveland might have Doughty focus on the curveball initially. The curve immediately becomes a candidate for the best breaking ball in Cleveland’s system thanks to its depth and his feel to land it. Doughty has thrown a mid-80s changeup but it lagged behind his other three pitches in high school. His clean operation and athleticism could lead to above-average control.
The Future: Doughty is a high-upside righty with natural athleticism. He’s a scratch golfer and kicked a 60-yard field goal in high school. He has midrotation upside and should start the 2025 season with Low-A Lynchburg.
Scouting Grades: Fastball: 55 | Curveball: 65 | Slider: 60 | Changeup: 45 | Control: 50.
12. Kevin Alvarez (https://www.baseballamerica.com/teams/2 ... =preseason)
OF
Ht: 6'4" | Wt: 184 | B-T: L-L
Age: null
BA Grade/Risk: 50/Extreme.
Track Record: The star of the 2025 international signing class for the Astros. Alvarez is a Cuban outfielder who signed for $2 million with plenty of buzz. There’s still a lot of space for Alvarez to add good weight to his tall, lean frame (6-foot-4, 185 pounds) to enhance an already promising foundation of hitting ability.
Scouting Report: Alvarez is a lefty with long limbs that he’s able to sync up well at the plate to keep his swing direct and efficient, making contact at a high clip and spreading the ball around the field. Alvarez has grown a couple inches into his current height since many clubs were scouting him, and while it’s still a hit-over-power game right now, there’s significant projection for Alvarez to grow into bigger home run sock once he packs on more muscle. Alvarez has an above-average arm and good defensive instincts in center field, but he’s an average runner, so with his size, he probably will ultimately make his way to a corner.
The Future: Alvarez will be one of the bigger names to debut in 2025 from the recent IFA period, he has potential to hit his way into the Astros Top 10 Prospects by year end.
Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 55 | Run: 50 | Field: 50 | Arm: 55.
13. Kyle DeBarge (https://www.baseballamerica.com/teams/2 ... =preseason)
SS / 2B
Ht: 5'9" | Wt: 170 | B-T: R-R
Age: null
BA Grade/Risk: 50/High.
Track Record: When DeBarge arrived at Louisiana-Lafayette, he was a catcher who had been a team leader for Louisiana 5A state champions Lake Charles’ Barbe High. But from day one of his freshman season, DeBarge was the Ragin Caguns’ shortstop. He started all 60 games as a freshman, got even better as a sophomore and then hit .355/.418/.699 in his draft year with 21 home runs–he’d had 22 total extra-base hits the year before. The Twins drafted him with their supplemental first round pick.
Scouting Report: DeBarge is yet another productive college middle infielder who shows the ability to hit, run and play solid defense. The Twins have had solid success in drafting and developing players like this, with Luke Keaschall being the most prominent recent example. DeBarge has long shown he has above-average contact skills. He was a .338 hitter in college and even though his surface-level numbers didn’t show it, he had well above-average miss and zone-miss rates in his pro debut. He doesn’t chase much and shows solid pitch recognition. DeBarge is also a plus runner who terrorized Florida State League batteries. He stole 10 bases in 10 tries in his first 12 pro games and finished with 15 steals in just 26 games. Defensively he played both shortstop and second in his debut. He’s average at shortstop and should be above-average or better at second with an above-average arm.
The Future: DeBarge’s well-rounded skill set gives him a lot of ways to help a big league club. He should spend most of 2025 at High-A Cedar Rapids.
Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 40 | Run: 60 | Field: 50 | Arm: 55.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From MLB Pipeline: https://www.mlb.com/milb/news/cam-smith ... e-coverage
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- It didn’t take long for Cam Smith, the Astros’ top-ranked prospect by MLB Pipeline (No. 59 overall in '25), to show his stuff in Grapefruit League play on Tuesday. Smith walloped a pair of opposite-field home runs in his only two at-bats in the Astros’ 8-5 win over the Mets at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches.
“I can’t even describe it, but it feels like the best feeling in the world,” Smith said. “It’s a blessing just to get opportunities to get in there, whether you’re starting the game, whether you’re getting the back-half of the game. To see that caliber of pitching this year, it’s huge as a ballplayer.”
In his first spring at-bat with the Astros, Smith came off the bench and rocketed an opposite-field two-run homer to right field in the sixth inning off Mets reliever Austin Warren. He then hit a solo homer -- just to the right of center field -- in the eighth inning off Connor Overton.
“It doesn’t look like his first Spring Training camp,” Astros manager Joe Espada said. “He’s walking into an organization that has had a lot of success, and he feels like he can be part of this and he can be part of success, and he’s excited to be here. You see how he goes about his work every day. I’ve been very impressed. I know it’s early in camp, but that’s what you’re looking for in young players that have the ability to do special things, come in swinging the bat. That’s pretty cool, man.”
Smith was the No. 14 overall pick in last year’s Draft out of Florida State by the Cubs, who dealt him and two other players to the Astros in December for outfielder Kyle Tucker. For Smith, the adjustment to a new team has been eased by the fact he gets to live at home with his parents.
Smith attended Palm Beach Central High School in Wellington, Fla., which is about 20 miles from the Astros’ training facility, and had his mother, grandparents and some family friends in the stands on Tuesday.
“That’s a huge part,” Smith said. “I’m living with my parents, so this transition is not easy, but a lot easier than it would have been going to another team. That helped out a lot. These guys welcomed me with open arms. There’s no bad blood. You’re family now. It’s good energy around me. It made it easier.”
Smith, who entered the game at third base, said he’s been focusing on his defense this spring more than he ever has before. The Astros also plan to give him some reps in right field, but they’ll find a spot for him on the roster at some point this year if he keeps swinging the bat.
“We all knew he had the potential to do the things he’s showing, but when you see it live it’s like, ‘OK, this is real,’” Espada said. “We’ve got to keep developing this young man to help us win at a Major League level.”
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- It didn’t take long for Cam Smith, the Astros’ top-ranked prospect by MLB Pipeline (No. 59 overall in '25), to show his stuff in Grapefruit League play on Tuesday. Smith walloped a pair of opposite-field home runs in his only two at-bats in the Astros’ 8-5 win over the Mets at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches.
“I can’t even describe it, but it feels like the best feeling in the world,” Smith said. “It’s a blessing just to get opportunities to get in there, whether you’re starting the game, whether you’re getting the back-half of the game. To see that caliber of pitching this year, it’s huge as a ballplayer.”
In his first spring at-bat with the Astros, Smith came off the bench and rocketed an opposite-field two-run homer to right field in the sixth inning off Mets reliever Austin Warren. He then hit a solo homer -- just to the right of center field -- in the eighth inning off Connor Overton.
“It doesn’t look like his first Spring Training camp,” Astros manager Joe Espada said. “He’s walking into an organization that has had a lot of success, and he feels like he can be part of this and he can be part of success, and he’s excited to be here. You see how he goes about his work every day. I’ve been very impressed. I know it’s early in camp, but that’s what you’re looking for in young players that have the ability to do special things, come in swinging the bat. That’s pretty cool, man.”
Smith was the No. 14 overall pick in last year’s Draft out of Florida State by the Cubs, who dealt him and two other players to the Astros in December for outfielder Kyle Tucker. For Smith, the adjustment to a new team has been eased by the fact he gets to live at home with his parents.
Smith attended Palm Beach Central High School in Wellington, Fla., which is about 20 miles from the Astros’ training facility, and had his mother, grandparents and some family friends in the stands on Tuesday.
“That’s a huge part,” Smith said. “I’m living with my parents, so this transition is not easy, but a lot easier than it would have been going to another team. That helped out a lot. These guys welcomed me with open arms. There’s no bad blood. You’re family now. It’s good energy around me. It made it easier.”
Smith, who entered the game at third base, said he’s been focusing on his defense this spring more than he ever has before. The Astros also plan to give him some reps in right field, but they’ll find a spot for him on the roster at some point this year if he keeps swinging the bat.
“We all knew he had the potential to do the things he’s showing, but when you see it live it’s like, ‘OK, this is real,’” Espada said. “We’ve got to keep developing this young man to help us win at a Major League level.”
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From MLB Pipeline: https://www.mlb.com/milb/news/each-team ... e-coverage
Twins: Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF (MLB No. 37)
This one is really a toss-up between Rodriguez and Walker Jenkins, so we’ll give the former the shoutout this year after Jenkins got the nod in 2024. The only thing that’s held the outfielder back has been injuries, he’s yet to top 100 games in a season. When he’s on the field, his bat speed has helped him get to his raw power (.621 SLG in 37 Double-A games last year). He’ll need to cut down the K’s a bit, but that will happen if he can stay on the field.
Cubs: Owen Caissie, OF (MLB No. 54)
Caissie generates huge raw power with the bat speed and loft in his lefty stroke as well as the strength and leverage in his 6-foot-3 frame. Acquired from the Padres in the Yu Darvish trade in December 2020, he has homered 52 times in three full pro seasons despite annually being one of the youngest players in his league. He went deep 19 times at Triple-A last year as the International League’s second-youngest batting qualifier (age 21).
Twins: Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF (MLB No. 37)
This one is really a toss-up between Rodriguez and Walker Jenkins, so we’ll give the former the shoutout this year after Jenkins got the nod in 2024. The only thing that’s held the outfielder back has been injuries, he’s yet to top 100 games in a season. When he’s on the field, his bat speed has helped him get to his raw power (.621 SLG in 37 Double-A games last year). He’ll need to cut down the K’s a bit, but that will happen if he can stay on the field.
Cubs: Owen Caissie, OF (MLB No. 54)
Caissie generates huge raw power with the bat speed and loft in his lefty stroke as well as the strength and leverage in his 6-foot-3 frame. Acquired from the Padres in the Yu Darvish trade in December 2020, he has homered 52 times in three full pro seasons despite annually being one of the youngest players in his league. He went deep 19 times at Triple-A last year as the International League’s second-youngest batting qualifier (age 21).
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BA's Prospect Wire: https://www.baseballamerica.com/mlb-prospects-wire/
March 3, 2025
Astros’ Cam Smith Hits 412-Foot Triple To Dead Center
Third baseman Cam Smith was the focal point of the December blockbuster that sent Kyle Tucker to the Cubs. Now, Smith is the focal point of Houston’s farm system—and one of its top spring training performers. On March 3, he hit a booming, bases-clearing, 412-foot triple to center field that was one of the farthest-struck balls of the day. In five Grapefruit League games, Smith has gone 4-for-7 with two homers, a triple and four walks. Chicago drafted Smith 14th overall out of Florida State in 2024 before they agreed to trade him for three-time all-star Tucker last offseason.
March 3, 2025
Astros’ Cam Smith Hits 412-Foot Triple To Dead Center
Third baseman Cam Smith was the focal point of the December blockbuster that sent Kyle Tucker to the Cubs. Now, Smith is the focal point of Houston’s farm system—and one of its top spring training performers. On March 3, he hit a booming, bases-clearing, 412-foot triple to center field that was one of the farthest-struck balls of the day. In five Grapefruit League games, Smith has gone 4-for-7 with two homers, a triple and four walks. Chicago drafted Smith 14th overall out of Florida State in 2024 before they agreed to trade him for three-time all-star Tucker last offseason.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From FG's Mining the News: https://fantasy.fangraphs.com/mining-the-news-3-11-25/
After being drafted just last season, Cam Smith is being considered for the Opening Day roster …
Smith’s standout performance across the first three weeks of spring training must at least merit consideration. Asked Wednesday by Foul Territory to discuss one positive and negative coming from major-league spring training, Brown brought up Smith without prompt.
“The most exciting thing right now has been for me to watch Cam Smith and watch him develop. … He’s really creating a lot of conversation,” Brown said.
Brown retained his rookie eligibility, stayed within the required top-100 prospect lists and accrued a full year of major-league service time in 2023. Thus, Brown remains PPI-eligible. Houston will receive a comp pick after the first round of the 2026 draft should Brown finish in the top three of American League Cy Young Award or MVP voting this season.
Perhaps the Astros try something similar with Smith this season. If Walker’s injury is short-term, Houston could carry Smith to begin the season, demote him when Walker is ready to return and attempt to preserve his rookie status.
… and will start getting outfield reps.
After being drafted just last season, Cam Smith is being considered for the Opening Day roster …
Smith’s standout performance across the first three weeks of spring training must at least merit consideration. Asked Wednesday by Foul Territory to discuss one positive and negative coming from major-league spring training, Brown brought up Smith without prompt.
“The most exciting thing right now has been for me to watch Cam Smith and watch him develop. … He’s really creating a lot of conversation,” Brown said.
Brown retained his rookie eligibility, stayed within the required top-100 prospect lists and accrued a full year of major-league service time in 2023. Thus, Brown remains PPI-eligible. Houston will receive a comp pick after the first round of the 2026 draft should Brown finish in the top three of American League Cy Young Award or MVP voting this season.
Perhaps the Astros try something similar with Smith this season. If Walker’s injury is short-term, Houston could carry Smith to begin the season, demote him when Walker is ready to return and attempt to preserve his rookie status.
… and will start getting outfield reps.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BA's Breakout Prospect Teams: https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories ... -for-2025/
Brody Hopkins, RHP, Rays
Hopkins was acquired by the Rays alongside Aidan Smith for Randy Arozarena. The 2023 sixth-round pick out of Winthrop is a former two-way player in college who converted to full-time pitching in 2023. He threw 115 innings in his first professional season and reached High-A in the second half. Hopkins throws two fastball shapes in a four-seam and two-seam sitting in the mid 90s, as well as an upper-80s slider with sweep, a low-90s cutter and an upper-80s changeup he really kills lift on. It’s a eye-popping pitch mix, on par with some of the best in the minor leagues. An outstanding athlete, Hopkins has the ability to repeat his mechanics and handle innings. He’ll be a name to watch in 2025, as he could gain major helium with another strong performance.
Brody Hopkins, RHP, Rays
Hopkins was acquired by the Rays alongside Aidan Smith for Randy Arozarena. The 2023 sixth-round pick out of Winthrop is a former two-way player in college who converted to full-time pitching in 2023. He threw 115 innings in his first professional season and reached High-A in the second half. Hopkins throws two fastball shapes in a four-seam and two-seam sitting in the mid 90s, as well as an upper-80s slider with sweep, a low-90s cutter and an upper-80s changeup he really kills lift on. It’s a eye-popping pitch mix, on par with some of the best in the minor leagues. An outstanding athlete, Hopkins has the ability to repeat his mechanics and handle innings. He’ll be a name to watch in 2025, as he could gain major helium with another strong performance.
Re: Down on the Farm - 2025
From BA: https://www.baseballamerica.com/stories ... mlb-debut/
In 2024, there was a lot to like about Pirates righthander Braxton Ashcraft. His fastball sat in the mid 90s and was a strike 68% of the time. Both of his breaking balls were tight, high-spin weapons that projected as potentially plus pitches.
There was, however, one big area for improvement: his changeup.
Ashcraft, who was drafted 51st overall in 2018 and is the fourth-ranked prospect in the Pirates’ system, rarely threw the pitch in 2024. Evaluators, however, expressed optimism in its shape and performance. He just needed to throw it more often.
Part of Ashcraft’s reticence to throw his changeup was because it was the last pitch he threw before suffering the torn ulnar collateral ligament that eventually required Tommy John surgery and wiped out his 2022 season. To become a more complete pitcher—and one who could stick as a rotation piece—he needed to regain confidence in that offering and incorporate it more often as a weapon against lefthanders.
This spring, he’s done just that.
Ashcraft’s most recent turn on the backfields came in an intrasquad game against lower-level Pirates minor leaguers. The most important part of that afternoon’s appearance was that he unleashed his changeup enough to keep hitters off his heater and breaking balls. It was also notable that he had enough conviction in the pitch, which sits 89-91 mph, to throw it against both lefties and righties.
“We just had a really honest conversation with him about the fact that, ‘If you’re going to be a starter, this is a weapon that would tremendously help you,'” Pirates pitching coordinator Josh Hopper said. “And to his credit, he went home, took ownership of it, and comes back, and asks ‘What do you think?’ And it’s pretty good.”
Ashcraft’s changeup is thrown with a traditional grip and without much in the way of pronation. Simply put: He throws it just as he would his fastball and lets the grip do all the work for him.
“He was trying so hard to manipulate it and make it move, which made it get wonky and hard to strike,” Hopper said. “We kept having conversations with him about the fact that, like, ‘Hey, you don’t have to manipulate it. It’ll play. You can allow the spin of the ball to let it play.'”
Beyond the changeup, Ashcraft is also incorporating a two-seamer into a mix that already features a four-seam fastball that has touched 98 mph, a powerful upper-80s slider and low-80s curveball. The goal is to add another weapon against righthanders, specifically on the inner half of the plate.
“I just think it opens up the doors for him,” Hopper said. “I think it has the opportunity to make really efficient innings, because it helps control pitch count, because of the ground balls. I think it opens up the side of the plate, because it gives him a little room for error right-on-right if he wants to use it in that way to open up that inner half.
“We all know that the Braxton can really, really spin the ball. Like, really spin it. And because he can spin it so well, anything we can do to keep opening up room is great.”
The Pirates’ pitching in recent years speaks for itself. With two new pitches in his arsenal, Ashcraft might be the next young Buc to make his big league debut.
In 2024, there was a lot to like about Pirates righthander Braxton Ashcraft. His fastball sat in the mid 90s and was a strike 68% of the time. Both of his breaking balls were tight, high-spin weapons that projected as potentially plus pitches.
There was, however, one big area for improvement: his changeup.
Ashcraft, who was drafted 51st overall in 2018 and is the fourth-ranked prospect in the Pirates’ system, rarely threw the pitch in 2024. Evaluators, however, expressed optimism in its shape and performance. He just needed to throw it more often.
Part of Ashcraft’s reticence to throw his changeup was because it was the last pitch he threw before suffering the torn ulnar collateral ligament that eventually required Tommy John surgery and wiped out his 2022 season. To become a more complete pitcher—and one who could stick as a rotation piece—he needed to regain confidence in that offering and incorporate it more often as a weapon against lefthanders.
This spring, he’s done just that.
Ashcraft’s most recent turn on the backfields came in an intrasquad game against lower-level Pirates minor leaguers. The most important part of that afternoon’s appearance was that he unleashed his changeup enough to keep hitters off his heater and breaking balls. It was also notable that he had enough conviction in the pitch, which sits 89-91 mph, to throw it against both lefties and righties.
“We just had a really honest conversation with him about the fact that, ‘If you’re going to be a starter, this is a weapon that would tremendously help you,'” Pirates pitching coordinator Josh Hopper said. “And to his credit, he went home, took ownership of it, and comes back, and asks ‘What do you think?’ And it’s pretty good.”
Ashcraft’s changeup is thrown with a traditional grip and without much in the way of pronation. Simply put: He throws it just as he would his fastball and lets the grip do all the work for him.
“He was trying so hard to manipulate it and make it move, which made it get wonky and hard to strike,” Hopper said. “We kept having conversations with him about the fact that, like, ‘Hey, you don’t have to manipulate it. It’ll play. You can allow the spin of the ball to let it play.'”
Beyond the changeup, Ashcraft is also incorporating a two-seamer into a mix that already features a four-seam fastball that has touched 98 mph, a powerful upper-80s slider and low-80s curveball. The goal is to add another weapon against righthanders, specifically on the inner half of the plate.
“I just think it opens up the doors for him,” Hopper said. “I think it has the opportunity to make really efficient innings, because it helps control pitch count, because of the ground balls. I think it opens up the side of the plate, because it gives him a little room for error right-on-right if he wants to use it in that way to open up that inner half.
“We all know that the Braxton can really, really spin the ball. Like, really spin it. And because he can spin it so well, anything we can do to keep opening up room is great.”
The Pirates’ pitching in recent years speaks for itself. With two new pitches in his arsenal, Ashcraft might be the next young Buc to make his big league debut.
