2024 Bowman Draft Ranking | All 100 Players With an Autographed Card

All 100 players with a 1st autograph in 2024 Bowman Draft ranked, including Jac Caglianone, Travis Bazzana, and more.

This year’s draft was widely regarded as a weaker than normal draft, although there was more depth than average. This product features most of the best players from that draft, noticeably missing Charlie Condon and JJ Wetherholt, among others. It still features almost all of the 1st rounders, and many of the interesting players from further down the draft.

What I’m trying to rank here is some combination of future ceiling and floor, while reflecting what the card industry thinks is important (pitchers and catchers in general have lower prices, and hitting is most important). Dynamic power/speed players are most expensive, although any superstar hitter is pricey as well. I would say it’s close to a 75/25 split on ceiling to floor, although the lower down the list you go, the more I’m trying to look for those future star guys. I understand some 1st rounders may be better prospects than the low floor 2nd rounders, but the card industry doesn’t really care about a slightly above average hitter with good defense, I’m looking for the future star type of players. The team the player plays on is also important, but I only really used that as a tie-breaker as players can always get traded. The only time I really factored it into the rankings is if they have a history of developing players well (Brewers, Dodgers, Guardians, and others), or if they got drafted for the Rockies. Pitchers are also generally lower priced, although pitchers with really exciting stuff and high strikeouts are higher priced (Paul Skenes), which will be reflected in their rankings.

To compile this ranking I looked at various scouting reports from Fangraphs, The Athletic, MLB.com, and Prospects Live. I also corroborated that with video I looked at on my own. The scouting reports on guys lower down on the list are mostly from my own eyes. The age is their age on draft day (July 14, 2024). I tried to include pro ball stats if I thought they had a large enough sample size, although many players have their college stats displayed. Most high schoolers and pitchers didn’t play at all after the draft. The team listed is whichever team is on their card (some players got traded this offseason).

1. Travis Bazzana (Guardians) - 2B

A+

Age: 21

Games: 27

Home Runs: 3

AVG/OBP/SLG: .238/.369/.396 (.765 OPS)

K%/BB%: 25.4%/13.9%

The 1st overall pick being 1st on this ranking only makes sense. I gave some thought to Jac Caglianone, and he is the top chase given that his level of fame is much higher than Bazzana’s, but I still think Bazzana has the better outlook. If your reading this you probably already know, but Bazzana is from Australia and started playing at their top league at 15 years old. After that he went to Oregon State for three years and put up a 1.479 OPS in 2024, second only to Charlie Condon. Bazzana had a pretty solid professional debut, but didn’t wow anyone either. Bazzana has a pretty typical 2nd base look, great hit tool and good power, but no crazy speed and he’s probably an average fielder there at best. What makes him stand out is just how good of a hitter he is. Bazzana probably doesn’t have superstar upside, but he’s a very good bet to be an impact player. Bazzana struck out a bit more than you’d expect in his debut, although the walk rate was good and 27 games isn’t enough to get concerned about. He did show good power, so maybe he’s got something akin to a Gleyber Torres type, although the contact should be much better.

2. Jac Caglianone (Royals) - 1B

A+

Age: 21

Games: 29

Home Runs: 2

AVG/OBP/SLG: .241/.302/.388 (.690 OPS)

K%/BB%: 20.6%/5.6%

The story the entire season for Caglianone was that he was chasing out of the strike zone way too much, but he still made so much contact he rarely struck out (8.3%) . You’re starting to see that be exploited slightly in High A, although he’s still making a lot of contact for a guy with such high chase rates. Caglianone is not known for his contact obviously, it’s his power. He’s got absurd power and already easily puts up 400+ foot bombs in game. Only having 2 homers in 29 games is less than I expected, even knowing he might have some contact issues. Cags is going to have to develop his plate discipline more, although there’s a 40 homer bat in there if he can unlock it. It’s also worth mentioning he was a pitcher during his time in college, although the Royals have scrapped that (smartly so). He had great stuff, although such bad command that he could only ever be a reliever. I’m honestly not totally sold on Caglianone, but the ceiling is still as high as any 1st base prospect. He’s the number 1 chase in this product, but far from a sure bet to be that 40 homer bat.

3. Nick Kurtz (Athletics) - 1B

A/AA

Age: 21

Games: 12

Home Runs: 4

AVG/OBP/SLG: .368/.520/.763 (1.283 OPS)

K%/BB%: 20%/24%

Nick Kurtz had a slight down year in college, but still went 4th overall to the Athletics and torched Single and Double A in 12 games. His pro debut has made everyone forget about the down year at Wake Forest. He’s an extremely patient hitter, with his 24% walk rate in pro ball actually down from the 30% he had with Wake Forest. He’s a slightly less powerful Caglianone with a much, much better eye. Kurtz has phenomenal bat speed and absolutely demolishes balls after a simple setup at the plate. I think there will be some swing and miss in his game, but you can’t make him chase so it shouldn’t be a big problem. Kurtz has potential to be an All-Star caliber 1st baseman, although similarly to Bazzana, the ceiling is not as high and he’s more of a floor play.

4. Braden Montgomery (Red Sox) - OF

SEC

Age: 21

Games: 61

Home Runs: 27

AVG/OBP/SLG: .322/.454/.733 (1.187 OPS)

K%/BB%: 20%/18%

Braden Montgomery transferred to Texas A&M from Stanford this year, and proved he could hit extremely well against SEC pitching. Everything about his swing is geared for power (at least from the left side). He has a small toe tap and crouches down slightly before unleashing his incredible bat speed. His back foot ends up about a foot deeper in the batters box because of how fast his hips turn. Montgomery is one of the few switch hitters in this draft, and he’s actually very similar from the right side of the plate too. The main problem with Montgomery is the hit tool, as he swings a lot and at pitches out of the zone too. Montgomery is best at a corner outfield spot, although he could probably play center with his good speed. Montgomery has enough power to become a 30 homer bat, although the he’ll need to stop chasing so much to get there. He suffered an ankle injury late in the year at Texas A&M, which makes some people apprehensive about him. He was also traded to the White Sox this offseason, which may concern some.

5. Konnor Griffin (Pirates) - SS/OF

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Konnor Griffin is the first guy on this list I would say has superstar potential, although that comes with more risk than the other guys above him. I actually think Griffin’s got a little more of a floor than some people are giving him credit for. Griffin should be able to reach the major leagues at the minimum as a great glove in center field with above average power. Hopefully it won’t come to that though. I’m just saying that Griffin shouldn’t be a complete bust unless he really struggles to make contact. The hit tool is the biggest potential issue with Griffin. He has a very deep load with this hands that causes some timing issues. Griffin has phenomenal power and power potential since he’s already 6’4 and only 18 years old. As I mentioned before, he’s a great fielder and could probably be a good shortstop if the Pirates want to develop him there. Griffin has 5 tool potential if everything clicks, and would be a perennial MVP candidate too.

6. Cam Smith (Cubs) - 3B

A/A+/AA

Age: 21

Games: 32

Home Runs: 7

AVG/OBP/SLG: .313/.396/.609 (1.004 OPS)

K%/BB%: 17.9%/11.2%

Cam Smith had lots of post draft success, and I think Smith’s success is pretty repeatable. Smith posted great numbers without an inflated BABIP and a reasonable 17.9% K%. It was still a relatively small sample size, but it’s a reassuring sign for Cubs (now Astros) fans. Smith has great raw power, but his somewhat flat swing and compact setup doesn’t produce many home runs. He still gets plenty of high exit velocities, but the home run power won’t be there without a swing change. He’ll still hit some, but maybe no more than 20 a season. Smith should be able to stay at 3rd base, but he’s not known for his defense. It’s a similar story with his speed. Smith is a very safe play, considering he already crushed Double-A in his debut. Overall, he is a polished player in all facets of the game, and maybe after getting traded to the Astros and Minute Maid Daikin Park, there could be more home run power.

7. Bryce Rainer (Tigers) - SS

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Bryce Rainer is the 2nd best high schooler in my opinion, and a slightly safer bet than Konnor Griffin, although the ceiling isn’t quite as high. Rainer has great power for a shortstop and doesn’t have the clear timing issues like Griffin does. Rainer still does have a long swing and doesn’t have the bat speed to get to pitches up in the zone, but his power should offset that. He should be able to crush pitches down in the zone. He can definitely play shortstop, but maybe third base is his best position with his phenomenal arm. Rainer has good speed, but maybe a little less than you’d expect from a shortstop. It all sounds a lot like a Corey Seager type player, but that’s only if everything goes perfectly in his development.

8. Chase Burns (Reds) - RHP

ACC

Age: 21

ERA: 2.70

FIP: 2.76

IP/SO/BB: 100/191/30

Chase Burns is this year’s version of Paul Skenes, although that’s probably being pretty generous to Burns. Burns might have close to as good of stuff as Skenes, but he’s got far worse command than him (still good enough to start) and a smaller pitch arsenal. Burns has a phenomenal fastball that sits 97-99 with about 19 inches of induced vertical break. Those kind of peripherals are as good as Jared Jones’ fastball, although it’s not quite as good overall because of Burns’ high arm slot. College hitters were able to square up his fastball, but the peripherals are so good that I’m still wondering exactly how they hit the fastball so well. His slider is absolutely nasty, diving straight down to the plate extremely late. It’s got some horizontal movement too, although it’s definitely more of a gyro slider. His curveball has similar nasty break at a slightly slower low-80s speed, and there’s also a changeup that he rarely uses. Burns has a phenomenal 3 pitch mix, which could get MLB players out now. The only developmental reason to keep him in the minors is to work on the changeup, and maybe try to refine his command just a little. Jared Jones is a very similar pitcher, although I think Burns could be even better with a little bit more refinement on the edges.

9. Hagen Smith (White Sox) - LHP

A+

Age: 20

ERA: 3.52

FIP: 3.69

IP/SO/BB: 7.2/7/2

Hagen Smith is in my opinion the 2nd best pitcher in the draft, although him and Burns are interchangeable. Smith is a lefty, and has more of a two-pitch mix, although he has a much better changeup than Burns. Smith relies on his fastball/slider combo, and while not as nasty as Burns, he still has plenty of success. His fastball is probably better than Burns’, it’s a little slower at mid-90s but he makes up for it with his much lower arm angle. The slider has a ton of vertical movement, and has sharpness to it as well. It looks just like the fastball but ends up breaking down to the plate. Smith doesn’t get his fastball inside to righties very well, and ends up just using his slider to get inside. Other than that, Smith’s command is pretty solid. Smith actually has a pretty good changeup, but he doesn’t have confidence in it so he doesn’t use it. Much like Burns, I expect the main point of Smith’s development to be the changeup. Although with Smith, he already has a good changeup, he just needs to know when to use it. He had no need for it while dominating in college.

10. Christian Moore (Angels) - 2B

A/AA

Age: 21

Games: 25

Home Runs: 6

AVG/OBP/SLG: .347/.400/.584 (.984 OPS)

K%/BB%: 26.4%/8.2%

Christian Moore made the biggest headlines of any 2024 draftee when he started torching Double A after an aggressive promotion by the Angels. There was a lot of talk about him getting promoted to the majors like Nolan Schanuel did last year, although ultimately the Angels made the right call and kept him in Double A for the year. Christian Moore did benefit from an extremely high .429 BABIP and his K% was very high at 29.6% in Double A. Moore has a very simple set up at the plate which doesn’t look like it’d create much power, but he swings so aggressively and with lots of speed that he ends up with a lot of hard contact, very similar to Cam Smith. But, Moore is much more of a home run hitter, with a swing geared for fly balls. Moore swings at a lot of bad balls, so he needs to clean that up if he wants to be an impact player. His 67.7% contact rate is concerning, but many power hitters still have success while whiffing a lot. Moore isn’t a great fielder at 2nd base either, and he could end up in a corner outfield spot or maybe center with his good speed. Moore should get called up next year, but I don’t think he’s quite as much of a finished product as Schanuel was. He still needs development in the field and recognizing breaking balls.

11. Ryan Waldschmidt (D-Backs) - OF

A

Age: 21

Games: 14

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .273/.485/.318 (.803 OPS)

K%/BB%: 13.6%/22.7%

Ryan Waldschmidt was a breakout prospect this year after many injuries in the past few years. He was mostly healthy this year though, and was very impressive with Kentucky, hitting 14 home runs and having a 1.079 OPS. Waldschmidt also continued that success into Single A, although that came to the surprise of no one because of how good he was in college. Waldschmidt has a very uppercut swing and swings solely with his hands and torso, he has no leg kick or stride. This creates some problems for him in the top of the zone, as it’s hard for him to make a lot of contact up there. He does have extremely fast bat speed though, which can help with that. The thing making me so excited about Waldschmidt is that he has very good swing decisions. He walked almost 2x as much as he struck out in Single A, and had 41 walks to 45 strikeouts in college this year. He’s a corner outfield prospect, although he should have above average defense there, and he could maybe play center in a pinch. On top of all that, he’s a good base stealer, maybe stealing something around 30 a year.

12. Carson Benge (Mets) - OF

A

Age: 21

Games: 15

Home Runs: 2

AVG/OBP/SLG: .273/.420/.436 (.857 OPS)

K%/BB%: 20.3%/15.9%

Benge is a corner outfield prospect without much power, yet he excels at using the opposite field and produces great exit velocities. While he occasionally runs into a home run, his swing is very much geared for line drives. He could play center field but is definitely better suited in a corner outfield role with his plus arm. He was a two-way player for Oklahoma State, although his future was always in the batter’s box. It was a great debut for Benge, but any player with as much success as him in college should be great in Single A. Benge will steal a base occasionally, but his speed isn’t his best attribute. His hit tool is his calling card, and he’s got some untapped power for the Mets to find. If he never develops plus power he should still be a very serviceable MLB outfielder.

13. Theo Gillen (Rays) - OF

A

Age: 18

Games: 8

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .154/.353/.192 (.545 OPS)

K%/BB%: 41.2%/23.5%

Theo Gillen is a very athletic player with good upside if everything clicks, which the Rays are very good at doing. Gillen is more of a contact-oriented player, but there’s sneaky raw power too. His swing is mostly geared for line drives, although that great raw power and high exit velocities help him hit one out relatively often too. The Rays are planning on transitioning him from shortstop to outfield, as he doesn’t have a great arm. It’s the right move, and with his 70 speed he should work in center field. He makes plenty of contact and is great at controlling the strike zone. Being a high schooler, Gillen has plenty of development left to do, but he’s got an All-Star ceiling. Gillen was one of the few high schoolers to play in pro ball after the draft, and it wasn’t pretty, although it was only 8 games.

14. Seaver King (Nationals) - SS/3B/OF

A

Age: 20

Games: 20

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .295/.367/.385 (.751 OPS)

K%/BB%: 14.4%/10.0%

I’ve never been a huge fan of Seaver King’s game, but he is a very dynamic player with good skills. He swings at nearly everything he sees, but still makes a lot of contact with his great bat speed. I’m just not sure that those contact rates will stay up in the higher levels of the minors. He does have surprisingly good power for a small guy, but it’s still a relatively flat swing that’s normally not geared for power. He is a very fast runner with a good arm, and he’s still figuring out which position he’s best at. He’ll likely be a utility guy that can play all over the field, including shortstop and center field. I don’t think he has enough of a bat to be an All-Star, but he should be valuable because of his ability to play anywhere. He’ll also provide plenty of steals, he already had 10 in 20 Single A games.

15. Trey Yesavage (Blue Jays) - RHP

AAC

Age: 20

ERA: 2.03

FIP: 2.48

IP/SO/BB: 93.1/145/32

Trey Yesavage is probably my favorite pitcher of this draft (not the best), mostly because of his phenomenal splitter. It all starts with his release point, which is very over the top. This makes all his pitches get great ride and come down very harshly on the batter. The fastball is a great pitch, even though it doesn’t have too much velocity (91-96 mph). The ride easily makes up for that, it can get above 20 inches of IVB. The splitter is his best pitch though, it looks exactly like the fastball but ends up breaking down in the dirt instead of staying up. He also has a cutter/slider which he occasionally uses. It’s not a great pitch, but it is useful to get the hitter’s eyes looking more east-west. Yesavage has good command too, so he’s got a very high ceiling and shouldn’t need much time in the minors. Yesavage is still clearly the 3rd best pitcher behind Burns and Smith, but he’s still got mid-rotation upside.

16. Kellon Lindsey (Dodgers) - SS

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Lindsey has constantly been compared to Trea Turner, and it’s easy to see why. They both have top of the scale speed, play shortstop, and have questions about their power going into the draft. Turner obviously developed that power, although Lindsey is yet to show much power at all. Lindsey does have a good right handed swing, but it’s not amazing bat speed. Lindsey’s offensive ceiling is probably only a slightly above average hitter, although with his speed he can be a very valuable player. Lindsey doesn’t have the arm currently to play shortstop, and may have to move to center field to take advantage of his speed. If you can’t tell, everything about Lindsey’s game revolves around his speed, so as long as he is an okay hitter he can provide plenty value. If he’s not a great hitter though, his card prices probably won’t be that high. I don’t think he’s the next Trea Turner, but nobody thought Trea Turner would turn into what he is.

17. Kaelen Culpepper (Twins) - SS

A/A+

Age: 21

Games: 26

Home Runs: 3

AVG/OBP/SLG: .242/.330/.394 (.724 OPS)

K%/BB%: 13.4%/9.8%

I think Culpepper has a higher ceiling than some are giving him credit for. He’s super athletic and has a great swing with some power. Even though it’s mostly a line drive swing, Culpepper has phenomenal bat speed that gives him good power for someone with that kind of swing. The main problem with Culpepper is the chase rate. He does chase a lot, but even if he doesn’t significantly improve that, I still think he could be a great player. He also improved on that a ton in his pro debut. The industry isn’t completely certain on if Culpepper can play shortstop in the future. It seems everyone thinks he would be a very good 3rd baseman if he has to move there though. I think he can play a good shortstop, he has good speed and arm, but just needs a little more time at the position. I think Culpepper could reach 20 homer power as a shortstop, but maybe he’ll become more of a glove first utility infielder with only 10-15 homers. He’ll also steal a base relatively often.

18. Dakota Jordan (Giants) - OF

SEC (Played 2 games in Single A)

Age: 21

Games: 63

Home Runs: 20

AVG/OBP/SLG: .354/.459/.671 (1.129 OPS)

K%/BB%: 29.0%/15.2%

Dakota Jordan went in the 4th round to the Giants, although it was a big surprise he dropped that far. He still signed for about 2nd round money though. Dakota Jordan has raw power that rivals the guys at the top of the list like Caglianone or Kurtz. Jordan has much clearer hit tool issues than any of them though. Even in college with Mississippi State, he had nearly a 30% strikeout rate. It’s an extremely powerful swing with huge bat speed though. He’s an extremely fast runner too, but he’s not a great defender. He seems to be limited to a corner outfield spot, but with more refining he should be a good defender there. Jordan hunts fastballs almost exclusively, and swings very often at breaking balls away. Jordan has superstar potential, and might have the best tools of anyone in the draft besides the hit tool. It’s extremely rare for someone with such a high strikeout rate in college to become a productive MLB player, but Jordan is the type of athletic beast that you like to bet on.

19. James Tibbs III (Giants) - OF

A/A+

Age: 21

Games: 26

Home Runs: 2

AVG/OBP/SLG: .241/.293/.343 (.636 OPS)

K%/BB%: 31.0%/6.9%

James Tibbs was a small surprise to the Giants (they were linked with Caminiti for the most part), and I’m not a big fan of him as a player or for the hobby. Tibbs did no favors by struggling a lot in his professional debut, although I wouldn’t look too much into those numbers. One very surprising stat is the K% at 31.0%. Tibbs was a very good hitter for contact in College, and really didn’t chase much either. The main problem with Tibbs is that he’s a corner outfielder at best or 1st baseman with below average speed. He really needs the bat to be elite, and I don’t really see that coming. He’s not a very good profile at those spots either, as he doesn’t produce much power, probably only average. He does have very good bat speed, but it doesn’t produce super high exit velocities or anything. Tibbs is a relatively safe play as there aren’t any holes in his game, or at least we thought so before the draft, but Tibbs has maybe a 3-4 WAR ceiling if everything goes right.

20. Cam Caminiti (Braves) - LHP

A

Age: 17

ERA: 3.0

FIP: 0.91

IP/SO/BB: 3/4/0

Caminiti is a cousin of the late 1996 NL MVP Ken Caminiti, and he’s by far the most polished high school pitcher in the draft. I wouldn’t be surprised if he was a college prospect, yet he’s actually one of the youngest players in the entire draft. He also went surprisingly low, 24th to the Braves, after being linked to the Giants at number 13 for most of the spring leading up to the draft. Caminiti looks like he’ll have 4 good pitches, although nothing is clearly plus yet. I’m sure he’ll develop a really good wipeout pitch with time though. I think that his fastball is his best pitch right now, it gets up to the high-90s but he struggles to hold that velocity. It has good ride on it, but it’s not anything super special. His main out pitch is a curveball that is more horizontal than vertical, but it does have great fade and is especially problematic to lefties. He also has a slider but it’s got a pretty similar profile to the curveball. Caminiti’s also developed a changeup already, and isn’t afraid to use it at all. In some ways Caminiti is even more polished than the top 2 pitchers Burns and Smith, but he doesn’t have the same level of stuff. Caminiti should be a safe bet to be a starter, but he still has to refine the secondaries to make them true out pitches.

21. Ryan Sloan (Mariners) - RHP

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Sloan was a 2nd round draft pick by the Mariners who got 1st round money. He’s also an extremely polished high school pitcher, although he only has 3 distinct pitches and isn’t a lefty like Caminiti. He has a slider with plenty of depth, and a good fastball that has touched 100. Sloan also has a developed changeup already, although it’s not anything super special. Sloan and Caminiti have similar upside, but maybe Sloan has the slight advantage in terms of stuff. I think both are equally capable of being great starting pitchers in the MLB some day.

22. Griffin Burkholder (Phillies) - OF

A

Age: 18

Games: 1

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .500/.500/1.500 (2.000 OPS)

K%/BB%: 0%/0%

Burkholder is an extremely toolsy player just like Dakota Jordan, but it’s even more unclear of what he’ll become. He loads his hands very late and has a small leg kick, but it’s mostly for show as his swing is very normal, maybe other than being a bit long. Burkholder has great raw power, phenomenal speed, and should be an above average centerfielder. Getting to the power has been a slight problem though. He struggles to recognize off-speed pitches, and, combined with a slightly questionable swing, this makes me less optimistic about his hit tool. But it’s still plus tools all around the board other than that, so he’s definitely worth looking at. He probably has the highest ceiling of anyone outside the 1st round, maybe only 2nd to Jordan.

23. Tyson Lewis (Reds) - SS

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Lewis was snagged for back of the 1st round money in the late 2nd round by the Reds. I’d say I’m a fan of his, he’s got a very high ceiling and no gaping holes in his game so far. He’s also the first Nebraska high schooler to get drafted since 2019, although another (Kale Fountain) was drafted in the 5th round by the Padres this year. Lewis’ best asset is his plus speed, but that’s not to discredit his bat at all. Lewis has a line drive swing but does constantly pull the ball leading to decent homerun totals. It’s a very simple swing but he does chase, which is his only real hole in his game. It’s not clear what Lewis’ position will be at the next level, but he’ll be given every shot to stick at shortstop. I see a pretty similar ceiling to Kaelen Culpepper’s that I mentioned earlier, but he has more room to grow and, of course, has a higher risk being a high schooler.

24. Kash Mayfield (Padres) - LHP

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 19

Kash Mayfield burst on to the scene this year, showing 3 good pitches. His best pitch is the changeup surprisingly, it’s got great fade and reminds me a lot of Jordan Wicks. Part of Mayfield’s surprising rise to the 1st round was a huge bump in velo this year, going from high 80s to 92-95. It has good ride on it too, and his fastball/changeup combo is one of the best two pitch combos in this product. He has a curveball which is very much a work in progress. If he gets a better breaking ball he should dominate the minors. There’s no questions about command with Mayfield either. He could be a mid-rotation starter, but I don’t think it’s as clear as fellow high school pitchers Ryan Sloan or Cam Caminiti.

25. Ryan Johnson (Angels) - RHP

CUSA

Age: 21

ERA: 2.21

FIP: 2.57

IP/SO/BB: 106/151/14

Ryan Johnson is one of my favorite guys of the draft, and he’s exactly the type of guy I’m looking for. I’m willing to look past what conventional scouts say, which is that he is pretty much reliever only because of his delivery. If Johnson had the same numbers with a more conventional delivery, he’d be easily a 1st round pick. It doesn’t help he was playing against relatively weak competition at Dallas Baptist University, but I think he’d be equally dominant against better competition. Anyways, Johnson’s delivery is insane, it looks like he’s flinging his body all around. It gives him a super deceptive delivery though, since he has a low arm slot, and a release point deep in the right handed batters box. I wouldn’t say alone any of his pitches are plus, but the delivery helps them play up. The sweeper/slider is the best pitch, and he used it more than half the time. To a right handed hitter, the slider looks like it’s in front of the plate forever, but normally it ends up just on the outer edge of the plate. That’s the thing with Johnson, his delivery looks like he’d have no command with it, but he actually has the best command of any player in the entire draft (yes, the entire draft). He’s also got a fastball that acts like a sinker, which is to be expected since his delivery would make any fastball move towards the right, and he’s been up to 100 mph with it. It normally sits 92-96 though. He has a cutter to give hitters a slightly different look, but what he really needs is something to give hitters a north-south look. If the Angels can help him develop a good splitter, he might be the best pitcher in the draft. I don’t think that’s super likely, since the Angels normally just try to rocket their guys up to the MLB, but they’ve tried to developed some pitchers recently, for example Caden Dana and Barrett Kent, although they were high schoolers. Johnson always has the floor of a righty specialist in the bullpen, but I really think he has a chance at being something more.

26. Mike Sirota (Reds) - OF

CAA

Age: 21

Games: 51

Home Runs: 7

AVG/OBP/SLG: .298/.473/.513 (.986 OPS)

K%/BB%: 18.9%/23.0%

Sirota was projected to be a top half of the 1st round pick going into the draft, but almost every stat was worse this year than his 2023. Every notable stat other than OBP, which is somewhat interesting, it might mean he was pitched around for much of the season. He also was much much better during the 2nd half of the season than the 1st, which is a nice sign going into the 2025 season. Nothing mechanical changed with Sirota, so it honestly seems a little harsh a .163 drop in OPS dropped his draft position by 70 (and $4 million in signing bonus money). Anyways, Sirota still has the upside of a 1st round pick, but it’s a much less clear path to that upside. He’s got average to slightly above average power, a solid hit tool, and is a clear center fielder. Maybe the hit tool is a little bit in question because of his extremely crouched stance. It’s hard for him to control the bat super well, especially high in the zone. He does have great speed which should give him good steal totals too. If Sirota’s prices are around the other guys drafted in the 3rd round, I’ll gladly pick up plenty of his cards. He was traded to the Dodgers in the Gavin Lux trade, which is probably good for the developmental side, but at the MLB level he won’t be able to take advantage of Great American Ballpark as much. The Dodgers clearly are excited about him too, since they took him in the 16th round back in 2021, although he didn’t sign.

27. JD Dix (D-Backs) - SS

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

The Diamondbacks seemingly had Dix around the Johnson/Lewis/Sanford high school shortstop mix. He went higher than any of those guys, but also got less money, at $2,150,000. All the rankings had the other guys above him, which was reflected in the bonus money, as all the other guys got at least $2,500,000. Dix has a similar ceiling to Johnson/Lewis/Sanford, as a good hitting shortstop with decent pop, although he’s definitely a riskier play. Dix was injured for a lot of the season leading up to the draft. He’s a switch hitter, although he’s got a cleaner swing with more bat speed from the left side. He’s got good loft in his swing, and enough raw power that he could eventually reach 20 homers a year. He’s a pretty slick defender at short, but the injury could hurt his defense, we’ll just have to see. Dix seems to be pretty underrated because of the injury, he looks like a really polished player in all facets of the game, but the injury is a factor we don’t know the result of.

28. Blake Burke (Brewers) - 1B

SEC (Played 5 Games in A+)

Age: 21

Games: 72

Home Runs: 20

AVG/OBP/SLG: .379/.449/.702 (1.151 OPS)

K%/BB%: 14.9%/10.8%

Burke is a 1st base only prospect who is more geared towards line drives, but there’s certainly home run power to come. He still has power, but it’s probably only 50 power right now. Burke should easily be able to hit the low minors, although he does have some issues chasing. He’s got a versatile hitting profile for a 1st baseman, he does a little bit of everything. He should have a decent amount of pop, he goes the other way a fair amount of the time, and chases a bit. I don’t think Burke will ever be a super star 1st baseman, but maybe he could have a few good seasons and make an All-Star team or two.

29. Braylon Doughty (Guardians) - RHP

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Doughty was the Guardians 2nd pick in the draft, taking him 36th overall in the supplemental 1st round. Doughty is mostly a two pitch pitcher, but the slider/curveball can have different looks based on how he throws it. It’s an extremely good pitch no matter what though. The curveball has more depth but still plenty of sharp movement, while the slider is a little more sweeping but still plenty of vertical movement too. He also has a good fastball, it’s in the low 90s range now but could easily get up to mid to high 90s. It has some arm side break too so it’s not flat. Doughty, like most high school pitchers, has a few great pitches but needs to work on a changeup. It’s rarely used but is said to have some promise. Unlike most high school pitchers, he does have good command, so developing a 3rd pitch could make him a great starter. Doughty has a great foundation and I think the Guardians will help him reach his ceiling as a mid-rotation guy.

30. Carter Johnson (Marlins) - SS

A

Age: 18

Games: 28

Home Runs: 1

AVG/OBP/SLG: .221/.273/.292 (.565 OPS)

K%/BB%: 33.1%/5.8%

Johnson has got a high ceiling, almost any report you read on him mentions comparisons to Gunnar Henderson, since they’re both prep shortstops from Alabama. It’s an okay comp, but obviously nobody expects him to reach that level. Gunnar had much better power than Johnson at the same stage, and honestly just a higher ceiling overall, but Johnson is good in his own right too. Although, Johnson’s Single A debut was a disaster, and I’m not really sure what to make of it. 28 games is starting to get into the territory where you can look at the stats, and they certainly weren’t pretty. At the same time, it was after a long spring season and he’s only 18. Johnson has a great swing with some loft, but it is still geared for contact more than power. That’s what made his 33.1 K% so surprising to me. Johnson isn’t super speedy, and isn’t super likely to stick at shortstop, so right now he’s definitely in the red. Hopefully it’s all a mirage, but I still stuck him a few spots lower than if he had a solid debut, or frankly none at all.

31. Jared Thomas (Rockies) - OF/1B

A

Age: 20

Games: 8

Home Runs: 2

AVG/OBP/SLG: .333/.389/.545 (.934 OPS)

K%/BB%: 19.4%/8.3%

Thomas is an interesting prospect, he plays all 3 outfield spots and a little 1st base. He definitely can play center field, as he’s decently fast, but Thomas is better suited for a corner outfield role. Thomas reminds me a little bit of Nolan Schanuel, he has a pretty slow swing that will run into a few home runs, but it’s more geared to contact. I still think he should get to 20 home runs, especially playing in Coors Field. Like Schanuel, Thomas could be a fast riser as his skills are pretty refined. Although that comes with the fact that there’s not too much room for growth. He could be a quick flip if he is able to rocket through the minors. He’s certainly got a chance to be an impact bat too, but the profile is a little odd for a corner outfield/first base guy. If he can be a center fielder he’d be a much more valuable player. He is decently fast, but stealing bases isn’t part of his game right now.

32. Brody Brecht (Rockies) - RHP

Big Ten

Age: 21

ERA: 3.33

FIP: 3.45

IP/SO/BB: 78.1/128/49

Brecht probably has the best stuff outside of maybe Chase Burns, but unfortunately he combos that with absolutely awful command. His two pitch mix of his fastball and slider is phenomenal. The slider is more consistent and he can control it a little better. It has great downwards movement and is super hard with high 80s velo. The fastball is nasty when it’s on, it reaches 100 with consistency. He’s also added a changeup/splitter which actually he seems to have confidence in and isn’t too bad. It’s still a clear third pitch though. With his command troubles he is almost certainly a reliever in my mind, he hasn’t been able to develop any command during his years with Iowa. There’s no reason not to try him as a starter, but a starter that walks someone more than every other inning just isn’t going to work. He’s also been drafted by the Rockies, where his stuff will be diminished, especially the slider. Any Rockies pitcher isn’t going to be very valuable, unless he reaches his ceiling by improving the command. Thankfully, the floor is super high, he could probably be a MLB reliever right now if a team needed him to be.

33. Jonathan Santucci (Mets) - LHP

ACC

Age: 21

ERA: 3.41

FIP: 3.61

IP/SO/BB: 58/90/36

Santucci has a great 3 pitch mix, they could honestly all be plus pitches, but the command needs some work. It’s a very similar profile to Brecht, just coming from the left side. The slider is impossible for any lefty to hit, it’s got sharp horizontal movement. The fastball isn’t super hard at 92-95 but there is good ride which helps it play up. The changeup is really good, but he doesn’t use it nearly as much as he should. Like Brecht, Santucci will likely be able to get to the MLB as a reliever, but the ceiling is high if the command gets better too.

34. Aiden May (Marlins) - RHP

Pac-12

Age: 21

ERA: 3.05

FIP: 3.58

IP/SO/BB: 73.2/84/23

Aiden May is a very interesting prospect, he uses his plus(-plus?) slider extremely often. Some say it’s the best slider in the draft. He gets so much sharp horizontal sweep on it, leading to a bunch of whiffs. He can’t command it very well, but so many people are whiffing on it that his walk totals aren’t bad. The rest of the arsenal is average at best, he throws a sinker and cutter, but that’s mainly to make up for a very hittable 4-seamer. A changeup is there too that could be above average, but he uses it very rarely. May has a super high ceiling if he can get a better fastball and more confidence in the changeup, and the slider gives him a floor as a high leverage reliever. I think May is a very underrated prospect, definitely someone you should take a chance on.

35. Bryce Meccage (Brewers) - RHP

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Meccage is even more of a work in progress than Braylon Doughty is, but has a similar ceiling or maybe even higher. Meccage’s best pitches are the breaking balls,he’s got a clear 12-6 curveball and gyro slider. The curveball doesn’t have much depth but it does have sharp vertical movement. The slider is probably the better of the two. It’s got some good velo in the mid 80s and it drops out very well to the plate. It pairs well with his fastball, that sits mid 90s right now. It’s relatively straight but plays off the rest of his arsenal very well. Meccage doesn’t use his changeup much at all, and I do think he needs one because his stuff isn’t quite good enough to stick as a 3 pitch pitcher. Meccage also has pretty bad command right now, which also needs to improve for him to be a starter. If it all clicks, Meccage has mid rotation ceiling, which all hinges on improved control and a changeup. He’s a pretty typical high school pitching prospect.

36. Nick Montgomery (Braves) - C/1B

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Nick Montgomery has great power for a catcher, and I really think his hit tool is projecting to be at least average. Reportedly Montgomery has had a good up tick in his hit tool this year, and I 100% agree. Montgomery has a slightly deep load but no other problems with his swing, and the load is probably needed for him to get to the power. The industry seems to think Montgomery won’t be a catcher in the long run, as his pop times aren’t very good. The receiving seems good though, and that’s the most important part of a catcher’s defense. I can seem him being a bit like Austin Wells, who many didn’t think he would stick at catcher because of the arm, but the framing is so good that he’s actually a very good defensive catcher. Montgomery would still profile well at 1B or in the outfield corners if it comes to it. Montgomery has a great ceiling, and unlike most power first high schoolers, his hit tool isn’t so bad.

37. Billy Amick (Twins) - 3B

A

Age: 21

Games: 18

Home Runs: 3

AVG/OBP/SLG: .222/.351/.413 (.763 OPS)

K%/BB%: 19.5%/15.6%

Amick has great power, but questions about his hit tool. With Amick he has mechanical and eye issues, as he has a pretty big arm bar which limits his ability to move the bat around the zone. He also chases very often, so it’s a double whammy of hit tool issues. Those issues didn’t show up in his Single A strikeout rate, but the contact rate was concerning at only 71.6%. Amick has below average speed and isn’t a surefire bet to stay at 3rd. On the bright side Amick absolutely demolishes any ball he can get his bat to, but with his current approach and swing I don’t think it’ll persist in the majors. Amick has a decently high ceiling but I’m not super excited to get one of his cards.

38. Caleb Bonemer (White Sox) - SS/3B

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Bonemer was a 1st round pick going into the year, but slid pretty far in most people’s rankings due to performance, although the White Sox still picked him up 43rd overall. Bonemer has above average power, although he has a slightly choppy swing, settling into his load after setting up his hands high. It’s still good batspeed, which he needs to make up for a long swing. He looks to pull everything, he could easily be a 30 homerun hitter if he makes enough contact. He’s not a shortstop right now, I’d say his best fit is at 3rd, but 2nd would work too. I have my doubts with Bonemer, his hit tool is very far away and he hasn’t shown much consistency in his game. He doesn’t have a super high ceiling, but there’s a power hitting 3rd baseman in him somewhere.

39. Chase Harlan (Dodgers) - 3B

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 17

Chase Harlan is someone who the hobby really likes, someone with pretty much a power only profile. It only helps that he plays on the Dodgers, a team that’s been able to develop players to their fullest in recent years. Harlan is extremely good at rotating his hips, and that contributes to his great pull side power. There’s a lot of questions about his hit tool, mostly attributed to chasing a lot. That’s hard to fix, but if everything clicks it’s 30 homer pop. Harlan’s also not a lock to stay at 3rd base, with an outfield corner or 1st base a real possibility. Harlan is definitely a better hobby prospect than real prospect, which is all that matters here. The upside is legit, but there’s a world where he just becomes a pretty typical power hitting first baseman, and one that may not reach the MLB.

40. Dylan Dreiling (Rangers) - OF

A+

Age: 21

Games: 24

Home Runs: 1

AVG/OBP/SLG: .198/.340/.279 (.619 OPS)

K%/BB%: 18.9%/17.9%

Dreiling isn’t an outstanding player in any facet of the game, but he is just a straight up good hitter. He launches balls to his pull side, enough to get to at least average power, even if his raw power isn’t super impressive. Dreiling is limited to a corner outfield spot, and has about average speed. Dreiling doesn’t chase much, and is overall a very well rounded player. He won’t be that valuable unless if he is really able to hit though, which he didn’t at all in his 24 game debut. I wouldn’t put much weight on that debut at all, the walk and strikeout rates were good, and the BABIP was very low (.242). Dreiling should be a quick riser, but the ceiling is probably just one of a good ball player, not a superstar (or maybe even All-Star).

41. Kavares Tears (Padres) - OF

SEC

Age: 21

Games: 71

Home Runs: 20

AVG/OBP/SLG: .324/.427/.643 (1.070 OPS)

K%/BB%: 25.3%/15.4%

Tears was another player that was drafted off of Tennessee’s championship winning team. He’s got a pretty typical athletic corner outfield look. He’s got good raw power and bat speed, but struggles against anything that’s not a fastball. He also struggled to hit high velocity due to his long swing. Tears won’t steal too many bases, but he should be more than capable to handle a corner outfield role. The Padres could even have him try center field. Tears needs a big up tick in his hit tool if he’s going to be an MLB player, but the ceiling is a more athletic Teoscar Hernandez.

42. Ben Hess (Yankees) - RHP

SEC

Age: 21

ERA: 5.80

FIP: 5.09

IP/SO/BB: 68.1/106/35

Ben Hess took a step back this year in terms of ERA, but the stuff seems fine. He had inconsistent workloads in college this year, but when he pitched deep in the game, he was able to hold his velocity. Hess has a mid 90s fastball with plenty of ride, which has all the makings of a plus pitch. His main breaking ball is a slider but he also has a curveball. They’re not amazing pitches, but certainly will miss some bats. There was a changeup with him, but he’s scrapped it mostly. I think he needs a more consistent changeup to make the majors. Hess seems like a likely bet to make it as a back end of the rotation starter.

43. Cole Mathis (Cubs) - 1B/3B

CAA

Age: 20

Games: 52

Home Runs: 14

AVG/OBP/SLG: .335.472.650 (1.122 OPS)

K%/BB%: 12.6%/18.1%

Mathis has a similar profile to Rockies outfielder Jared Thomas, but won’t have the benefit of playing in Coors, and is limited to 1st base most likely. Mathis probably has more power potential than Thomas, but it’s still contact over power. Mathis has a similarly high floor, and if he can improve his power he should be an above average 1st baseman. The Cubs announced him as a 3rd baseman, but 3rd base was not something Mathis played much in college. He has a plus arm which could give him a chance he could stick there. He also was a pitcher in college, which gives him a fall back option if hitting doesn’t work out.

44. Braylon Payne (Brewers) - OF

A

Age: 17

Games: 4

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .438/.526/.625 (1.151 OPS)

K%/BB%: 15.8%/15.8%

The Brewers had the first real shock of the draft, picking what most thought was a 2nd round pick at best 17th overall. Payne is all about the projection. He was one of the youngest guys in the draft, and I’m not sure how his skillset will work in the minors now. He’s got top of the scale speed and should be a great fielder at center field, but he’s got no home run power and a line drive swing. He still can make some hard contact, but it’s hard for him to really get into a ball and hit it out of the park. He should make contact, but I’m honestly unsure of his ability to even get doubles. Most of the time he’s just hitting the ball into the ground. Payne could always grow into more power and maybe a swing change can help get to it, but currently I don’t see the talent of a 1st rounder. There’s a wide range of outcomes, but most likely is a glove first center fielder with no pop, kind of like Kyle Isbel. The Brewers know what they’re doing here though, and it’s hard to bet against them with their track record.

45. Dante Nori (Phillies) - OF

A

Age: 19

Games: 14

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .240/.424/.280 (.704 OPS)

K%/BB%: 21.2%/24.2%

Nori was maybe the biggest stretch in the 1st round other than Braylon Payne, and he’s not super interesting for the hobby. He’s a glove first outfielder with phenomenal speed, but the bat is probably not even going to get to average. He’s got a super simple setup at the plate, but doesn’t use his legs at all. It’s below average power because of that swing, which may be something the Phillies try to change. The setup does lead to good contact rates though. Nori will easily stick in center field, but unless more power comes, he’s not someone I’m keen on buying.

46. Ethan Anderson (Orioles) - C

A/A+

Age: 20

Games: 19

Home Runs: 1

AVG/OBP/SLG: .288/.361/.438 (.800 OPS)

K%/BB%: 18.1%/10.8%

Anderson can really hit, although his power is still below average. He also tried catching for the first time last year in college, an experiment that we’re not really sure what to make of. He was good enough to trot him out as a catcher in the minor leagues, but the Orioles played him in left field and 1st base too. He’s definitely most valuable at catcher, but it’s hard to project him as an above average defender there. His power doesn’t make him a great fit in a corner outfield spot or 1st base either. He has an above average hit tool, and doesn’t strike out much, so he could definitely be an above average hitter overall.

47. Eddie Rynders (Pirates) - 3B

Age: 18

DNP

Rynders is about as interesting a 4th rounder can get for the hobby. He’s a projectable high schooler with already above average raw power, and a hit tool that won’t hurt him too much. Rynders does have slightly below average bat speed, and also a long swing. It’s not a good combination in game, but it’s really impressive in batting practice. He should stick at 3rd base, but it’s possible he moves to a corner outfield role in the future. Rynders has fringy speed, but it’s not a huge problem for his profile. Rynders’ biggest problem is his hit tool, which could be fixed, especially since he’s only 18. If the Pirates fix that, they could unlock a really good, power hitting 3rd baseman.

48. Eli Serrano (Mets) - OF

A

Age: 21

Games: 17

Home Runs: 2

AVG/OBP/SLG: .238/.333/.444 (.778 OPS)

K%/BB%: 22.2%/9.7%

Serrano is mostly a contact hitter, but his 6’5 frame makes it easy to project more power to come. His tendency to hit for contact is mostly due to his bat path, which is extremely flat, although it helps him create great exit velocities. A swing change could do wonders for Serrano, and I think I see a slight swing path change in some of his Single A homers, although that may just be what all his homers look like. Serrano still has a really good foundation, but it feels like he should be able to tap into more power. Serrano is limited to a corner outfield spot, and won’t steal many bases. Kristian Campbell had an extremely similar profile last draft class, but it’s probably not as easy to make these adjustments as Campbell made it look.

49. Rodney Green (Athletics) - OF

A

Age: 21

Games: 24

Home Runs: 3

AVG/OBP/SLG: .289/.368/.464 (.832 OPS)

K%/BB%: 26.3%/11.4%

Rodney Green is a hugely athletic center fielder, someone the A’s seem to really like taking. He’s got a pretty similar profile to Lawrence Butler. Green has at least above average tools across the board besides the hit. He swings and misses at everything, especially anything off-speed. He should be a lock to stay in center field, and he loves to steal bases. A 26.3 K% in Single A doesn’t sound great, but it is slightly better than the 28.0 strikeout percentage he had at Cal this year. Green’s got a deep load and very bad eye, all of which makes me think it’s extremely unlikely he’ll ever get to an average hit tool. He could still get to 20 homer pop, but it’s probably in a more Trent Grisham-y way, where it’s homer or bust. Green has a very high ceiling, but I think Grisham is a very good comp of what he’ll actually become.

50. Luke Holman (Reds) - RHP

SEC

Age: 21

ERA: 2.57

FIP: 3.21

IP/SO/BB: 91.2/127/33

Luke Holman is pretty much all floor, he has a 4 pitch mix but mostly stuck to his fastball and slider at LSU. The fastball has good ride on it, but is a little slow at 91-94. He reminds me a little of Landon Knack, plenty of pitches but nothing clearly plus. He did have a little more velo last year, so if he can get the fastball up it could be really good. Right now, he’s a good bet to make the majors, but only if he gets a velo bump will I start paying attention to him.

51. Bryce Cunningham (Yankees) - RHP

SEC

Age: 21

ERA: 4.36

FIP: 4.96

IP/SO/BB: 84.2/96/34

Cunningham pitched mostly in the bullpen for Vanderbilt until this year, but moving to a starting role has boosted his stock a lot. Cunningham’s best two pitches are his fastball and changeup, but he used his slider a lot too. I’m sure the Yankees will give him a different look to his slider, maybe going for more of a sweeper, as the slider is definitely his weakest pitch. The fastball is probably about average, it’s 93-95 right now, and has about average ride. The changeup is the real out pitch, it has plenty of tail, and is really good against lefties. Cunningham is one breaking ball away from becoming a great pitching prospect, but he could probably be a back of the rotation guy with his current stuff too.

52. Levi Sterling (Pirates) - RHP

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 17

Levi Sterling is a very Pirates pick under GM Ben Cherington, he’s got a similar mold to Bubba Chandler, Zander Mueth, and Anthony Solometo. They’re all high school pitchers that were thought to be big projects. It’s a good sign, as all of them have shown good upside so far. Anyways, Sterling doesn’t have anything plus yet, maybe a 55 slider, but the rest of the arsenal isn’t too great currently. It is a legit 4 pitch mix though, very rare for a high schooler, and especially one who is younger than most of the class. The fastball is going to need a slight tick up in velocity, it’s low-90s right now, but it does have good horizontal movement. The sky is the limit with Sterling, but right now the stuff is only back end of the rotation.

53. Nate Dohm (Mets) - RHP

SEC

Age: 21

ERA: 1.23

FIP: 1.63

IP/SO/BB: 29.1/37/4

Dohm has been a very effective pitcher, although he’s missed a lot of time due to injuries during his college career. His stats are eye-popping, although the stuff doesn’t really back it up. He’s got a good fastball with ride and run to it, but he leaves it over the plate a lot. It’d be more effective in the top of the zone. His secondary stuff is great too. His slider and curveball are sharp, but are very similar. The slider is pretty much a shortened up version of the curveball, although it’s still very effective. The changeup has real promise, but it’s still his least used pitch. Dohm hasn’t consistently started, this year was his first season with more than 3 starts. That gives obvious relief risk, but if your not worried about health, there’s no reason to not think he can start. He’s a great pick for a 3rd rounder, he would likely be a 1st rounder if he had a better track record of success.

54. Payton Tolle (Red Sox) - LHP

Big 12

Age: 21

ERA: 3.21

FIP: 3.35

IP/SO/BB: 81.1/125/37

Tolle is another interesting prospect, his best pitch by far is the fastball even though it’s only 90-92. He does this by getting elite extension, which makes his fastball’s perceived velocity higher. He also has a very low arm slot, leading to a lower HAA (Horizontal Approach Angle), which also helps it play up. All of that is combined with about average IVB, very impressive for someone with a very low arm slot. If that doesn’t make any sense to you, don’t worry, just know Tolle’s fastball is probably plus, even though the velocity is below average. If Tolle could develop a plus breaking ball, or better changeup, he could be a great pick up. Right now, it’s a 50-55 slider/curveball and a fringy changeup. He’s not got a super high ceiling, but definitely has a chance to be a MLB starter.

55. Carter Holton (Braves) - LHP

SEC (Pitched 2 innings in A)

Age: 21

ERA: 5.19

FIP: 4.22

IP/SO/BB: 69.1/98/27

Holton is also a Vanderbilt product, but he doesn’t have the upside of Cunningham, although the floor is pretty high. There’s some reliever risk because of an odd delivery, but he needs that delivery as it helps him get leverage on his fastball. As I mentioned with Ryan Johnson, I’m not too worried about odd deliveries in general. If it comes to it, he should be a good reliever. Holton has a good 4 pitch mix, with probably all 55 fastballs, changeups, and sliders. There’s also a curveball in the mid-70s. Holton doesn’t have much room for projection as he’s 5’11, and with a modest reliever risk he’s not a super exciting prospect.

56. Carson DeMartini (Phillies) - 3B

A

Age: 21

Games: 24

Home Runs: 2

AVG/OBP/SLG: .315/.385/.478 (.863 OPS)

K%/BB%: 13.5%/8.7%

DeMartini is a power over hit 3rd base prospect, and he performed very well in his debut at Single A. The most intriguing part was the low K%, since that was his biggest question mark going into the draft. He still struck out 27% in college though, so it’s probably unlikely to hold that low. His main problem isn’t chasing, it’s just a lot of in zone swing and miss because of a grooved swing. He needs more bat control in order to get to anything not in his sweet spot, which is in the lower part of the zone. Pretty much everything he hits hard is in that middle to below the zone area. There’s some questions if he can stick at 3rd base, but it’ll be a move to 2nd base if anything. He got injured last year and it’s not clear if his arm is completely back. DeMartini needs a swing change to become an impact player, but with his current swing he could become a high strikeout, high home run total player.

57. Jacob Cozart (Guardians) - C

A+

Age: 21

Games: 13

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .119/.245/.143 (.388 OPS)

K%/BB%: 36.7%/14.3%

Cozart’s a defense first catcher, someone who isn’t particularly exciting as a hobby prospect. He’s got a great floor though since good defensive catchers always find their way to an MLB team, even if they can’t hit. Cozart should hit a little bit, he might have above average power, but it’s not going to be a great bat even if he reaches his ceiling. He does have a good swing but chases quite a bit, which is his biggest weakness. Cozart could be valuable to a MLB team, but it’s unlikely his cards will ever be too valuable.

58. Griff O’Ferrall (Orioles) - SS

A/A+

Age: 21

Games: 20

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .250/.344/.276 (.621 OPS)

K%/BB%: 14.4%/11.1%

Griff O’Ferrall is a glove first shortstop, he’ll hit for average, but isn’t a very interesting player on a baseball card. Your hoping to reach 10 home run power, but even then he’s not going to be a good hitter. If he could be an average hitter he’ll put up plenty WAR, but only because of how good of a fielder he is. There’s a chance he sticks as a regular, but he’s got a good chance to only be a glove first utility guy.

59. Carter Mathison (Phillies) - OF

A

Age: 21

Games: 11

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .207/.477/.241 (.719 OPS)

K%/BB%: 25%/25%

Mathison has intriguing parts of his game, but right now the sum of it all isn’t a very great player. Mathison should be a center fielder at the next level, he doesn’t chase too much, and has okay power. It’s probably 10-15 homer power, maybe 20 at best. Mathison’s biggest problem is the K%, and while he doesn’t chase, he’s got a very grooved swing. He also doesn’t have a good two-strike approach, but that may be able to be fixed. It’s a very similar profile to DeMartini, the Phillies 4th rounder, so they might have some idea of what to do with this type of player. I’m unsure of his ability to hit at all, although a 20 homer center fielder ceiling pushes him up a bit.

60. Nick McLain (White Sox) - OF

Big 12

Age: 21

Games: 48

Home Runs: 12

AVG/OBP/SLG: .342/.457/.663 (1.120 OPS)

K%/BB%: 11.7%/14.3%

Nick McLain is the brother of Matt, who’s on the Reds, and Sean, who is in the Dodgers farm system. McLain is a similar hitter, as he’s contact oriented, although he is notably a switch hitter. If he adds a grade of raw power, he’s definitely got the swing to get to 20 homers. McLain isn’t a super speedster, and is probably going to play in a corner outfield spot, but he should be able to hit. He’s more of a floor play, and is kind of a jack of all trades, master of none type player.

61. Cole Messina (Rockies) - C

A+

Age: 21

Games: 17

Home Runs: 1

AVG/OBP/SLG: .140/.232/.220 (.452 OPS)

K%/BB%: 19.6%/8.9%

Cole Messina is a bat first catcher with good power. He struggled mightily in A+ after the season, but I’m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt after a long year, especially as a catcher. The underlying stats aren’t bad at all, with the K% and BB%, and his .158 BABIP is a complete anomaly. Messina’s got an odd setup at the plate, he starts with his hands up super high, which makes it take a while to get his bat in the zone. It’s probably going to contribute to a K% in the mid to high 20’s, but his power should be able to make up for it. Messina’s not a lock to stay at catcher, although him becoming a productive MLB player hinges on that. He’s not going to hit enough to become an impact 1st baseman, but a power hitting catcher? That’s more appealing. If he sticks with Colorado, it’s going to be awesome to see him hit bombs at Coors. Messina’s not got much of a floor, and a modest ceiling as a bat-first catcher, which gives him a pretty conservative ranking.

62. Johnny King (Blue Jays) - LHP

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 17

Johnny King is a really intriguing prospect, as he’s got good present stuff and great projectability. He was only 17 on draft day, and has a great build at 6’3/210. King has three pitches, and all are pretty good. Maybe the weakest pitch right now is the fastball, it’s only around the low-90s with average ride. King should get a velo bump eventually, but right now it’s not projecting to an average MLB pitch. It does get some help from his low arm slot, so maybe that can make up for the velocity, if it never ticks up. The curveball is his best pitch, it’s a power curve with great late break. His changeup is probably average, but it’s very refreshing to see a high school pitcher with some confidence in his changeup. The command can still be spotty at times, and the delivery doesn’t help with that, but there’s a lot of time to develop. If King can improve his command, he should be well on his way to becoming an MLB starting pitcher.

63. Blake Larson (White Sox) - LHP

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Larson is another high school lefty, took 68th overall by the White Sox. He’s got a low arm slot, like most lefties, and 3 pitches. He’s got a slider and curveball, both probably above average, and a fastball. The fastball has some arm side tail, and he sits about 93 with it. There’s also a changeup, but it’s not used much. I think the fastball could be really great if he could add a few ticks of velo, but it’s maybe a bit much to ask for. Larson doesn’t have great command, so it feels like the most likely outcome is in the bullpen. Like most high school pitchers, he’s a project, but he does have at least 3 good pitches.

64. Ethan Schiefelbein (Tigers) - LHP

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Schiefelbein is a more polished lefty high schooler than the guys above him, but doesn’t have the same upside in terms of strikeouts. His fastball is in the low-90s, but like any high schooler, velocity should come as he gets older. The curveball is his main out pitch, it’s got lots of depth but is lacking sharpness. His slider might prove to be the better pitch, but he favors the curveball right now. He’s got a relatively good changeup, still needing work, but he does throw it occasionally. Schiefelbein has some of the best command of any high schooler, maybe 2nd to only Caminiti. The only thing separating the two is a better breaking ball, so if you trust the Tigers pitching development, he could be a pop up name in a year or two.

65. Blake Wright (Rockies) - 3B

A

Age: 22

Games: 16

Home Runs: 2

AVG/OBP/SLG: .270/.342/.460 (.803 OPS)

K%/BB%: 12.3%/8,2%

Blake Wright is an interesting senior sign out of Clemson, following a breakout college year. He’s got good power, and almost never strikes out. He was of course old for most prospects in college, but it’s a good profile nonetheless. He should be capable of playing in the infield somewhere, just probably not shortstop. Wright doesn’t provide anything on the bases either. The Coors effect should help him out too since he hits a ton of fly balls. This is a savvy pick by the Rockies, who saved some money in the 4th round and got a prospect that fits their park very well. He’s one to keep tabs on, and won’t be expensive.

66. Tytus Cissell (D-Backs) - SS

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Cissell is an extremely high variance shortstop prospect, not showing the current skills, but has a great foundation to build on. Cissell is also a switch hitter, and one with very similar swings from both sides. His swing is geared for low ball contact, and when he can get in to one, he can really hit it far. He’s still mostly a doubles hitter though. The D-Backs are betting that he reaches more raw power, which should happen, but it’s likely to be 20 homer pop at best. He isn’t projecting to an average hit tool right now either, so there’s a lot needed to get cleaned up here. Cissell has mixed reviews on his glove, but there’s no reason to not try him at short first. Cissell has okay upside but not much present ability. It’ll be a long work in progress for it to all work out.

67. Gage Miller (Marlins) - 2B/3B

A/A+

Age: 21

Games: 26

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .240/.305/.298 (.603 OPS)

K%/BB%: 16.9%/5.9%

Gage Miller is a contact only prospect, every other tool is fringy at best. There is a little pop in his bat, but your just hoping a hard line drive gets over the fence, there’s no raw power. He should be able to really hit for average though, it’s a super quick bat and he doesn’t chase. He is probably going to stick at 2nd base, that’s where his profile fits best anyways, but fielding is not going to be his specialty. He isn’t very fast either, so you’re really banking on the bat. The ceiling is something like Brendan Rodgers, an average bat and 10-15 homers, but Miller probably won’t ever win any Gold Glove Awards.

68. Drew Beam (Royals) - RHP

SEC

Age: 21

ERA: 4.22

FIP: 4.65

IP/SO/BB: 102.1/99/27

Drew Beam is a super high floored college starter out of Tennessee, with a pretty average arsenal. The best pitch is his changeup, it’s pretty hard at the mid-80s, and has plenty of sink. He’s got a 92-95 fastball that’s perfectly average, and a curveball in the low 80s. He’s got really good command, trending towards a 60, but it’s hard to tell against college hitting. He’s a very safe bet as a college pitcher, but isn’t anything special with his current arsenal. He’ll need a better secondary pitch to be anything more than a back end of the rotation starter.

69. Daniel Eagen (D-Backs) - RHP

Big South

Age: 21

ERA: 2.67

FIP: 3.36

IP/SO/BB: 77.2/121/28

Daniel Eagen is the very rare player to get drafted out of Presbyterian, and he was a high draft pick, going in the 3rd round. Eagen’s arsenal is so effective because of his over the top arm slot. His 92-95 fastball gets lots of ride because of the arm slot. The curveball plays off the fastball extremely well. It’s a plus pitch because it looks just like the fastball until diving towards the plate. The only problem is it’s a very north south look, which is where his slider comes in to play. The slider is still very north south, but it’s got some horizontal movement unlike his other pitches. There is a apparently a changeup too, but it’s barely used. His arsenal is more so one of a reliever, but his command is good enough to start. He just needs to develop the changeup a little more. He’s got a great foundation, and maybe being in a much better developmental environment than Presbyterian could unlock something.

70. Gage Ziehl (Yankees) - RHP

ACC

Age: 21

ERA: 3.87

FIP: 4.44

IP/SO/BB: 100/89/28

Ziehl is another college arm, this time his best pitch is the slider. It can be absolutely nasty with sharp break vertically and horizontally, it’s super effective low in the zone. The rest of his arsenal is a bit iffy, the fastball is only around the low 90s, and doesn’t have any great secondary characteristics either. The changeup can be effective, and he throws it against lefties almost exclusively. The command is above average, and he pitched a lot at Miami, averaging 6.2 IP per start. He needs a better fastball, but he could be a nice mid rotation guy if it all works out.

71. Sam Antonacci (White Sox) - 3B

A

Age: 21

Games: 23

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .333/.471/.432 (.903 OPS)

K%/BB%: 12.7%/16.7%

Antonacci is a super contact hitter, at least a 60 hit tool, but has 30 power. He’s got a great eye at the plate too, so his OBP should be really high throughout his career. Antonacci did show some speed in Single-A, with 7 steals, but he’s not a speedster. He’s not a great profile anywhere in the infield, probably best at 2nd, but he’ll likely be a super utility guy that can play in the infield and corner outfield. He should be able to rise somewhat quickly, but super utility men aren’t the most exciting players, and especially not one with little to no power.

72. Casey Saucke (White Sox) - OF

A+

Age: 20

Games: 24

Home Runs: 2

AVG/OBP/SLG: .290/.333/.398 (.731 OPS)

K%/BB%: 26.3%/6.1%

Saucke consistently produces good exit velocities, and had a solid, yet uninspiring debut in High-A. I think that’s probably a decent bet as to what MLB player he’ll be, if he makes it. He consistently hits the ball hard, although his crouched stance does no favors for him to get it over the fence. It’s not impossible to think he’ll get to average power, but he hasn’t shown it yet. Saucke plays a corner outfield position, and could probably play the infield too if a team needs. It looks like the White Sox are going to advance him through the minors pretty quickly, so he could be in the MLB soon. I don’t know why, but something about me gives him fan-favorite vibes, even though he’s unlikely to be an impact player. He’s someone I’m rooting for, even if he’s likely a bench player in the MLB.

73. Joshua Kuroda-Grauer (Athletics) - SS

A/A+/AAA

Age: 21

Games: 28

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .324/.421/.343 (.763 OPS)

K%/BB%: 7.1%/9.5%

Who reached the highest level of all 2024 draftees so far? That’d of course be Joshua Kuroda-Grauer, the A’s 3rd round pick. It was only 4 games in Triple-A, and he hit .167, but it’s worth something. He’s a contact only prospect, and he’s really good at making contact. A 7.1 K% is exceptional, and he even showed a bit of patience at the plate with some walks. He’ll probably not run a high walk rate in the big leagues, just because he swings a lot. He’s got good speed, and should be a good base stealer. Kuroda-Grauer has a chance to see the MLB next year, although any consistent playing time will probably have to wait until 2026. He’s not a very interesting prospect as a baseball card, he’s got maybe 30 power. He’s more of a 2nd baseman, although I think he’d be most valuable to a team in a utility role.

74. Ty Southisene (Cubs) - SS

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 19

Southisene is a very sound prospect, he’s got a great swing, and a good approach overall. He’s undersized at 5’9, and doesn’t really have much over the fence power. He does make good exit velocities, but the launch angle normally isn’t there. He’s a speedy runner, and should steal a good amount of bases over the course of a season. Southisene’s the type of player where everything plays up because of his great baseball IQ. He’s a safe bet for a high schooler, but there’s not much to get excited about right now.

75. Rafe Schlesinger (Guardians) - LHP

A

Age: 21

ERA: 4.91

FIP: 3.58

IP/SO/BB: 7.1/11/3

Schlesinger is a pretty huge project as a pitcher to take on, as he had a pretty disastrous 2024 season at Miami. The Guardians have already started to make some tweaks though. Schlesinger was basically throwing sidearm, but the Guardians have raised his arm slot a bit, to a low 3/4 one. He has a fastball, slider, and rarely used changeup. The idea might be to add a little bit more ride on the fastball, and make a really nasty slider. His slider was already good, but adding a bit more room for depth could make it a plus pitch. He could probably be a very quick riser if they decide to use him as a bullpen piece, but the changes to his arm slot make me think they’re in for the long haul. His control is good enough to stay as a starter, although at Miami he had some problem leaving pitches over the plate. I’m intrigued to see what the Guardians can make of him.

76. Boston Bateman (Padres) - LHP

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 18

Bateman is a serious project for a Padres team to take on, especially one that normally focuses on winning at the MLB level over anything. Bateman has two pitches, a fastball and curveball. They are at least above average pitches, with the curveball being his main out pitch. He gets a bunch of vertical movement on the curveball, with it normally ending up in the dirt. It’s also got a slight bit of cut to it, leading some to say it’s more of a slider. The fastball sits in the mid-90 range, which is extremely promising as a high schooler, as there’s probably some room for a velo bump. Bateman isn’t a great strike-thrower right now, although some say he could eventually get to average command. Bateman isn’t going to be an MLB starter with his current arsenal, he needs at least one more pitch, although there’s a good foundation. Bateman is 6’8/240, not super projectable, but clearly the Padres see something here. A lefty reliever is still the most likely outcome in my opinion.

77. Tyson Neighbors (Padres) - RHP

Big 12 (Pitched 4.2 innings in A)

Age: 21

ERA: 3.96

FIP: 4.26

IP/SO/BB: 38.2/61/19

Neighbors is a pure relief pitcher, but he’s got a great chance of being a high leverage reliever. He’s got 3 at least plus pitches, a fastball, slider, and curveball. The fastball is “only” mid-90s but has phenomenal carry in the zone. It reaches 20 inches of induced vertical break. He’s got a hammer curveball in the low-80s, and a tight slider in the mid-80s. He has below average command, although that’s to be expected of any relief-only prospect. He was one of the few pitchers drafted to actually play in the minors, although it was only Single-A. That’s a good sign that the Padres will rocket him through the minors, and he should be ready for it.

78. Chris Cortez (Angels) - RHP

SEC

Age: 21

ERA: 2.78

FIP: 4.09

IP/SO/BB: 64.2/102/37

Chris Cortez is another no doubt reliever, but he has two extremely effective pitches. The fastball touches 100 and gets really good arm side movement. The slider is absolutely nasty too, it can get up to 92, and has super sharp break away from the hitter. He doesn’t locate his pitches well at all, but it’s easy to imagine him as a closer. In this Angels system, he might be in the MLB by next year.

79. Trey Snyder (Mets) - SS/3B

A

Age: 18

Games: 6

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .182/.308/.182 (.490 OPS)

K%/BB%: 23.1%/15.4%

Snyder is a similar prospect to Ty Southisene, he’s got a great foundation at the plate but is lacking in pop. He can definitely get in to a pitch every once in a while, but it’s probably even lower power than Southisene. He’s more projectable at 6’1, but I’d like to see the results come before I assume anything. He’s got a huge leg kick which could cause some timing problems, but there’s no reason to change it yet. Snyder’s not a lock likely to stay at short right now, his arm makes 3rd base more likely. There’s a chance everything works out for him, but right now his power is low enough that I’m not interested. The exit velocities are great, but it’s all ground balls or line drives.

80. Jaime Ferrer (Twins) - OF

A

Age: 21

Games: 24

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .269/.376/.372 (.748 OPS)

K%/BB%: 10.8%/6.5%

Ferrer has good power and great bat speed, but he swings at nearly everything that’s near him. He does have a good two-strike approach and makes plenty of contact, so the strikeout totals are not as bad as you might think. He’s mostly making ground ball contact, but he can definitely get into one. Ferrer isn’t going to impress on the bases or in the field, where he’s suited for a corner outfield role, but there is 20 homer potential. Ferrer’s bat is very explosive, so if he could just learn to take a few pitches, he could be a good player. It’s a lot to ask for, and the upside isn’t really worth investing in.

81. John Spikerman (Phillies) - OF

A

Age: 21

Games: 17

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .226/.360/.323 (.683 OPS)

K%/BB%: 26.7%/12.0%

Spikerman’s best traits are his speed and defense, some things most people don’t care about for baseball cards. His power is almost non existent, but it’s mainly because of his swing, he actually has decent raw power. He makes a lot of ground ball contact, but he also swings and misses a lot. If he can make more contact, he could use his speed and become a more interesting player. His defense is very good, and he’ll easily stay in CF long term. He probably won’t ever reach an average OPS, but he’ll still be a good player because of the defense. It’s just not a profile that’s good for cards.

82. Brian Holiday (Cardinals) - RHP

Big 12

Age: 21

ERA: 2.95

FIP: 3.79

IP/SO/BB: 113/128/19

Holiday is another back end of the rotation type with good command, but nothing clearly plus yet. He’s got a fastball in the low 90s, but it plays up to a low approach angle. It’s probably only an average pitch. His best secondary is a slider with good sharpness. It tunnels very well with the fastball. He’s got a huge curveball, but it’s very slow. It’s not a true out pitch, it just gets whiffs by featuring a different look from the fastball and slider. His changeup needs work, it’s got little fade, with mostly arm side run. He’s got a good floor, but the ceiling is likely just in the back end of the rotation. The Cardinals might be trying to pull off another Quinn Matthews, and Holiday might be able to do it.

83. Khal Stephen (Blue Jays) - RHP

SEC

Age: 21

ERA: 3.28

FIP: 4.03

IP/SO/BB: 96/107/21

Khal is an extremely high floored pitching prospect, but it’s hard to imagine anything above back end of the rotation, innings eater type pitcher. He throws his fastball around 70% of the time, getting plenty of induced vertical break because of his high arm slot. He doesn’t have a clear out pitch, some grade his changeup as above average, but nothing plus. He was a workhorse for Mississippi State last year, averaging 6 innings a start. He’ll be a nice player to have on your team because of his ability to soak up innings, but I don’t see him being an impact player.

84. Michael Massey (Tigers) - RHP

ACC

Age: 21

ERA: 4.76

FIP: 5.3

IP/SO/BB: 34/51/24

Michael Massey was a potential 1st round pick after posting a 2.59 ERA in his 2023 season at Wake Forest. That was as a reliever though, and his transition to a starting role in 2024 wasn’t pretty. He was playing through some injury during the year, and eventually returned to the bullpen. He’s likely to just be a reliever, but the Tigers may choose to try him as a starter again. He has two main pitches, a fastball and slider. The fastball has good cut and carry, and a slider which has lots of sharp depth. There’s a curveball and rarely used changeup too. He doesn’t have the arsenal to stick as a starter, and the stuff isn’t overpowering like most relief pitchers. He has flashed average command before this year though. There’s a Royals 2nd baseman of the same name if you recognized the name. They’re not related in any way though.

85. Herick Hernandez (Braves) - LHP

A/A+

Age: 20

ERA: 2.70

FIP: -0.03

IP/SO/BB: 6.2/12/0

Yes, Hernandez had a negative FIP in his brief stint in the low minors, although that was after having a 6.14 ERA in college this year. It’s a bunch of 45s with Hernandez, that play up slightly due to his good command and over the top release point. He’s got a low-90s fastball, mid-80s slider, and 77-80 mph curveball. Nothing projects as plus as I said. Hernandez does get whiffs by commanding his stuff really well and knowing how to use it. I just don’t see this persisting in the upper minors, but the pro debut has him on my radar.

86. Josh Caron (Mariners) - C

A

Age: 20

Games: 13

Home Runs: 1

AVG/OBP/SLG: .277/.352/.383 (.735 OPS)

K%/BB%: 16.7%/9.3%

Caron is a power-hitting catcher with a good chance to stick behind the dish. The hit tool is the main question. He has below average bat speed, and hasn’t shown a great eye at the plate either. He is a year younger than most college draftees, at only 20 years old, so there’s maybe a bit more room for development. I don’t think a 1 year difference should really play much into his future outlook though. He’s likely a backup, but the power is somewhat intriguing.

87. Ryan Campos (Cardinals) - C

A

Age: 21

Games: 26

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .319/.396/.407 (.803 OPS)

K%/BB%: 12.3%/12.3%

Campos is a contact first catcher, and should stick as a catcher. His best attribute is his eye, he walked 15 more times than he struck out as ASU, and had an equal walk-to-strikeout ratio in Single-A. He should post some pretty good averages too, but there’s not much power in the bat. He’s a pretty typical catching prospect, and I expect him to make the majors, but it’s hard to see anything above an average player here.

88. Nick Mitchell (Blue Jays) - OF

A

Age: 20

Games: 22

Home Runs: 4

AVG/OBP/SLG: .289/.350/.467 (.816 OPS)

K%/BB%: 19.4%/6.8%

Mitchell is a contact oriented outfielder, and was traded to the Guardians this offseason from the Blue Jays in the Andres Gimenez deal. He makes consistent decent contact, although it almost never goes over the fence. He did hit 4 homers in Single A, although the underlying metrics don’t back that up. He had a 23.3% hard hit rate, which would be among the lowest in the MLB. He’s a good fielder, although unlikely to play center field. He’s a quintessential Guardian, but they typically don’t go after the guys who are interesting for the hobby.

89. Casey Cook (Rangers) - OF

A

Age: 21

Games: 20

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .197/.293/.239/ (.532 OPS)

K%/BB%: 19.5%/6.1%

Cook’s a decent floor play as a corner outfielder, but there’s not really anything to get excited about. He seems physically maxed out at 6’0, 195 lbs, and it’s only fringy power. That combined with an extremely unimpressive Single A debut makes him a very low priority. He does have good bat to ball skills, and will hit a homer every once in a while, but nothing is plus. He’s likely a platoon outfielder if he makes it at all. He’s a similar profile to fellow Rangers draftee Dylan Dreiling, but projects to be a worse hitter.

90. Fenwick Trimble (Marlins) - OF

A

Age: 21

Games: 29

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .258/.294/.325/ (.619 OPS)

K%/BB%: 16.5%/3.9%

Trimble is a contact-oriented outfielder who hits a lot of hard contact, just mostly into the ground. He strikes out rarely, although he chases a lot which lowers his walk totals too. If he can lift the ball more, he might be a player worth keeping an eye on. Right now, he’s a fringy player, without any tools that make him interesting for the hobby.

91. Connor Foley (D-Backs) - RHP

Big Ten

Age: 20

ERA: 4.71

FIP: 5.9

IP/SO/BB: 63/82/49

Foley is likely a reliever, he averaged 6.8 BB/9 over 2 years at Indiana. Foley’s best pitch is his fastball. Like Khal Stephen and Daniel Eagen, Foley’s got a high arm slot, leading to a better fastball. It’s sitting 95-97 with phenomenal ride. It’s easily a plus pitch, but could reach double plus in time. His slider and changeups are fringy at best, so he’s really just a one trick pony. I don’t see any starting potential, and he’d be lucky to get to the MLB at all with such awful command.

92. Brandon Neely (Red Sox) - RHP

SEC

Age: 20

ERA: 5.13

FIP: 4.46

IP/SO/BB: 79/108/28

Neely has pitched mostly out of the bullpen during his collegiate career with Florida, but the Red Sox will give him a chance to start, at least for a little while. Neely only really has 2 pitches, a fastball and slider, with the fastball being the best pitch by far. It’s got some great movement, and has been up to 97 before. The slider is sharp, but doesn’t feature much movement. In order to start he’s likely going to need a 3rd pitch, preferably a changeup, and maybe a slight up tick in command. I’d like to see him start consistently before I move him up.

93. Ivan Luciano (D-Backs) - C

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 17

This is the 2nd year in a row a catcher from Puerto Rico was drafted, with J.D. Gonzalez getting drafted last year in the 3rd round by the Padres. Luciano was drafted in the 2nd round, to many people’s surprise. Luciano was not anywhere near 2nd round conversation in the days leading up to the draft. Luciano has good bat speed and a short swing, but the power isn’t there yet. Luciano is one of the youngest players drafted though, so the D-Backs are hoping some of his tools may develop later. He’ll stick at catcher, but it’s unclear exactly how good of a catcher he is. His arm is good, although blocking and receiving is a work in progress. Most catchers never develop into good hitters, and Luciano probably won’t either. He should be a serviceable backup at least though.

94. Nathan Flewelling (Rays) - C

DNP (High Schooler)

Age: 17

Flewelling is the rare prospect drafted out of Alberta, Canada, and one drafted in the 3rd round. He’s got really good power, posting the 2nd highest exit velocity in the draft combine. He’s also only 17 years old, so it’s easy to get excited about his power in the future. The only thing is he doesn’t reach much power in game, opting for a more contact oriented approach, and just letting the power run in to him. Flewelling isn’t a lock to stay at catcher, but with some pro-instruction I’m sure he’ll be able to stick. 1st base is an option if it doesn’t work out. He needs more polish on both facets of the game, and the ceiling isn’t very high with Flewelling.

95. Aaron Parker (Blue Jays) - C

A

Age: 21

Games: 24

Home Runs: 5

AVG/OBP/SLG: .235/.380/.519 (.899 OPS)

K%/BB%: 27.0%/17.0%

Parker has a catcher-only build, at 5’9 200 lbs, but his bat has some upside. He really hit in Single A, including 5 home runs, and that power is his best tool. Parker has quick hands, but is already striking out at an alarming rate because of his propensity to chase. He’s also got a swing that will struggle to get to balls in the top of the zone. Parker is likely a backup, but if the hit tool ticks up he might be an average starter.

96. Randal Diaz (Nationals) - SS

MVC

Age: 21

Games: 59

Home Runs: 18

AVG/OBP/SLG: .360/.437/.632 (1.069 OPS)

K%/BB%: 11.95%/10.58%

Diaz is a glove first shortstop who torched the Missouri Valley Conference with Indiana State last year. I just don’t see those numbers being even close to what he does in pro ball, but he only needs to be an 80 OPS+ guy to find his way on to an MLB roster. Diaz is a very good defender at short, and I’m sure he could be a utility guy if that’s the way his career ends up. Diaz has a very flat swing, and I’m shocked at how he got 18 homers even in college. He doesn’t steal many bases either, so I really don’t see him as an attractive player for the hobby.

97. Parker Smith (Astros) - RHP

AAC

Age: 21

ERA: 4.23

FIP: 4.36

IP/SO/BB: 89.1/78/31

Parker Smith is the lone Astros player for this year’s product. He’s not a very interesting one either, but he has an extremely high floor as far as 4th rounders go. He can definitely start, but the stuff is average at best. He’s got a sinker, sweeper, and changeup. They all have good movement, but aren’t particularly sharp. Smith is likely to be a back of the rotation or long relief guy.

98. Jaron DeBerry (Brewers) - RHP

CUSA

Age: 21

ERA: 3.50

FIP: 4.55

IP/SO/BB: 90/89/38

DeBerry was a 3rd round pick, although he only signed for a $25,000 bonus, a clear money saver of a pick. DeBerry mostly works with his two off-speed pitches, a slider and curveball. The slider has some decent horizontal movement, but the curveball has some extremely sharp movement that could make it plus. His fastball is maybe a 45, sitting in the low-90s. He’s shown some kind of a cutter that slows it down to high-80s. That’s the kind of thing you do when you know your fastball isn’t good. DeBerry’s got good enough command to start, but unless the fastball ticks up, I don’t see DeBerry being more than a depth guy.

99. Ariel Armas (Cubs) - C

A+

Age: 21

Games: 13

Home Runs: 0

AVG/OBP/SLG: .204/.316/.286 (.602 OPS)

K%/BB%: 17.5%/12.3%

Armas is a defense-first catcher, and has almost no bat. He’s got a super short swing and decent bat speed but he’s likely never going to be an average hitter. Armas is well-liked by his pitching staff and is a solid defender. The Cubs put him in High-A, so maybe we could be seeing a quick rise, but I don’t see why they’d rush him. He’s likely a backup at best.

100. Kodey Shojinaga (Phillies) - C

Big 12

Age: 21

Games: 54

Home Runs: 5

AVG/OBP/SLG: .335/.402/.485 (.887 OPS)

K%/BB%: 8.3%/9.5%

Shojinaga played 15 games in Single A this year, but they weren’t pretty (.522 OPS). But, maybe they give you a better idea of what kind of hitter he is. He managed a .379 OBP!! While hitting 0 extra base hits in those 15 games. He’s a very patient hitter, and makes a lot of contact. It could be close to 20 power though (on the 20-80 scale). He’s probably not going to stick as a catcher it seems, with him playing 2nd and 3rd base in college. The Phillies played him a bit at catcher and 1st base, and some think he could handle a corner outfield spot too. It’s never good to be mentioned at 6 different positions. I can’t imagine Shojinaga making an impact at the MLB level, if he gets called up one day it’ll likely be as a spot start, at one of his many positions. Maybe he can carve out a niche super utility role on a team, but that seems unlikely. The Phillies are betting his OBP can be a good enough foundation and that he can add some power.

Thank you for reading my rankings. As always, if you have any comments feel free to leave them.