Yu-Min Lin, a left-handed pitcher, is quite the enigma. Just after turning 20, he made it to Double-A. What’s remarkable is his strikeout rate—32% of batters faced in the minors. And get this, his fastball? It hovers around 90 mph. But, oh, his curveball and changeup? Pure magic. Plus, his control is top-notch. In a world obsessed with speed, Lin’s making waves the old-fashioned way.
Then there’s Hurston Waldrep. Right-handed pitcher for the Braves, and let me tell you, he’s something else. Drafted No. 24 last year, and already, his stuff is turning heads. Fastballs that scream upper-90s, a slider sharp as a tack, and a splitter that’s just brutal. Atlanta didn’t waste any time, bumping him to Triple-A post-draft. Keep your eyes peeled; Waldrep might just hit the majors by early 2024.
Jackson Holliday, folks, is the cream of the crop. The game’s No. 1 prospect and only recently hit the big 2-0. His stats? Stellar. A .323/.442/.499 slash line and a ticket to Triple-A last season. The Orioles, buzzing after snagging Corbin Burnes, might just have Holliday on their Opening Day roster. If not, Triple-A will be his starting point, but either way, we’re seeing him in the majors this season.
Nick Yorke, on the other hand, stands out in the Red Sox’s NRI list. A first-round pick back in 2020, he’s had his ups and downs with injuries and swing issues. Yet, when he’s on his game, he’s a game-changer. Second base for the Sox in the second half of 2024? Could happen.
Matt Shaw’s debut was nothing short of spectacular. Drafted No. 13 last summer, he tore through 38 games, ending up in Double-A with a .357/.400/.618 slash line. Third base might be his calling, despite a history at second and shortstop. Spring training is going to be interesting for Shaw.
Colson Montgomery is the White Sox’s shining star. Their farm system’s looking up, thanks to some savvy trades. Despite an oblique injury limiting him last season, Montgomery made it to Double-A. His MLB debut? It’s on the horizon.
Rhett Lowder, the Reds’ No. 7 pick last year, is ready to make waves. Touted as MLB-ready, he might just find himself in Cincinnati’s rotation by July. Also, keep an eye on Chase Petty. Acquired from the Sonny Gray trade, he’s one to watch.
Kyle Manzardo, now with the Guardians, could be Cleveland’s next big thing at first base. After a lukewarm Triple-A stint, he shone in the Arizona Fall League. If he doesn’t start with the team, the minors won’t hold him for long.
Sterlin Thompson, drafted No. 31 in 2022, has versatility and power, playing across four positions and reaching Double-A. His strikeout rate? Only 18.2%. He’s got potential to be a manager’s dream player.
Jackson Jobe’s arm is electric. Fastballs in the upper-90s and a mean cutter. After a Double-A debut last season, 2024 could be his year, though spending it in the minors wouldn’t be a shock. Still, catch him this spring if you can.
Zach Dezenzo’s power is undeniable. An elite exit velocity guy, he’s got questions to answer but can hit home runs like nobody’s business. A strong spring could be his ticket.
Chandler Champlain, part of the Benintendi trade, made strides in 2023. His MLB debut could be this summer, adding depth to the Royals’ pitching.
Miguel Sanó, once a big leaguer, now finds himself with the Angels post-injuries. Playing winter ball in the Dominican Republic, he’s eyeing a DH spot post-Ohtani.
Jesse Hahn, attempting a comeback with the Dodgers after major arm injuries, is a story of resilience. At 34, he’s one to root for this spring.
Troy Johnstone, overlooked in the Rule 5 Draft, has a sweet lefty swing that could see him in Miami’s first base or DH mix later in 2024.
Jacob Misiorowski, with a powerful arm and a 35% strikeout rate in Double-A, could end up as a high-leverage reliever by season’s end, reminiscent of Josh Hader in 2017.
Brooks Lee, post-Jorge Polanco trade, might find his place in Minnesota’s infield. With exposure to third base and potential action at second, he’s close to making it to Target Field.
Drew Gilbert, part of the Verlander trade, is a do-it-all player who’s close to the big leagues after spending most of 2023 in Double-A.
Ben Rice, a catcher with impressive stats and analytical model darling, could find his way into New York’s mix as a versatile player in 2024.
Jacob Wilson, despite skepticism about his power, is a high draft pick worth watching in Oakland’s spring training.
Mick Abel, despite a challenging season, still boasts a premium arm. This spring is our first chance to see if he’s regained his command.
Paul Skenes, the No. 1 pick last summer, is a top pitching prospect with a fastball that hits 100 mph and a devastating slider. Pittsburgh fans, get ready.
Victor Scott II, with an 87% steal rate last year, is tailor-made for MLB’s new rules promoting aggressive baserunning.
Ethan Salas, at just 17, reached Double-A last season. His career has been nothing but aggressive, making him a must-see this spring.
Carson Whisenhunt, with one of the best changeups in the minors, could make his MLB debut early in 2024, given San Francisco’s rotation situation.
Harry Ford, a 20-year-old catcher with impressive stats, is a special talent. The Mariners will be watching him closely this spring.
Naoyuki Uwasawa, after 11 seasons in Japan, signed with the Rays, attracted by their pitching development reputation. He could be a surprise addition to their Opening Day roster.
Wyatt Langford, fresh off a World Series win with the Rangers, is poised for his MLB debut. His impressive stats post-draft make him a strong candidate for the Opening Day roster.
Ricky Tiedemann, despite limited innings last season, has the stuff to challenge big-league hitters. Toronto might see him sooner than expected.
Dylan Crews, chosen over James Wood, is the Nationals’ shiny new toy. Both are elite prospects, making Nationals fans the real winners this spring.
