Top 50 MLB prospects: Two Tigers lead off while Bazzana cracks Top 5 of Bowden’s rankings (2024)

With most of the minor-league season behind us, it’s time to update my top-50 ranking of the bestprospectsin baseball.

My list often differs from other publications’ rankings. I’ve always just called it the way I see it. I don’t go by industry consensus nor do I compare my list with those of other outlets. This is simply my evaluation based on what I’ve seen in person and/or via video, along with insights gained through conversations with executives across the game.

Analyzing players and debating about them remain fun parts of our game, whether you’re in a major-league board room, like I was for more than a quarter century, or in your living room at home. Disagreements are normal, among both professional evaluators and fans, so I welcome your feedback in the comments section.

Here is my list of the top 50 MLB prospects right now.

(Note: Prospects eligible for this ranking must still be in the minor leagues and never have been promoted to the majors in their career.)

Statistics are updated through Sept. 4 unless otherwise noted. Players’ minor-league level as of Sept. 4 is listed in parentheses. Players’ ages are as of Sept. 4. Jim Bowden’s scouting grades are based on the 20-80 scale, in which 20-30 is well below average, 40 is below average, 50 is average, 60 is above average and 70-80 is well above average. PWR denotes Power; FLD: Fielding; FB: Fastball; CT: Cutter; CB: Curveball; CH: Changeup; SLI: Slider; SF: Split-finger; CTL: Control; CMND: Command.

1. Jackson Jobe, RHP, Tigers (Double A)

Age: 22
Height: 6-2 Weight: 190
Scouting grades: FB: 70 SLI 70 CH: 60 CT: 55 CTL: 60 CMND: 55

Jackson Jobe is the best overall prospect and best pitching prospect in baseball. He is the only starting pitcher on this list who profiles as a future No. 1 starter, ace and Cy Young Award candidate. He has an overpowering mid-90s fastball with exploding life and a wipeout slider with which he has pinpoint control. His poise and composure are also special. He has logged a 2.02 ERA and 1.070 WHIP in 18 starts this season between High A and Double A.

2. Max Clark, OF, Tigers (High A)

Age: 19
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-0 Weight: 205
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 50 RUN: 70 ARM: 60 FLD: 65

An on-base machine, Max Clark is an elite leadoff hitter who’s capable of stealing 30 to 40 bases per season. His power projects to average when fully developed. He is a pure center fielder with plus-plus range in all directions and an above-average arm. Drafted third overall in 2023, Clark has slashed .279/.374/.424 with 20 doubles, six triples, nine home runs and 29 steals between Low A and High A in his first full pro season. He has a great personality and eventually will be a fan favorite in Detroit. I absolutely love this player.

3. Walker Jenkins, OF, Twins (High A)

Age: 19
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-3 Weight: 210
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 60 RUN: 55 ARM: 65 FLD: 55

It was difficult to decide whether Walker Jenkins should be above or behind Clark because they are two completely different players. Clark is known for his speed, defense and ability to get on base while Jenkins has ridiculous upper-deck loft power to the pull side but also line-drive power to all fields. He’s an above-average base runner as well with strong baseball instincts. He’s batted .293/.399/.468 with more walks (48) than strikeouts (40) across three minor-league levels this season, collecting 30 extra-base hits despite missing six weeks with a hamstring injury.

4. Travis Bazzana, 2B, Guardians (High A)

Age: 22
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-0 Weight: 199
Scouting grades: HIT: 70 PWR: 55 RUN: 60 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

Travis Bazzana was the first pick in this year’s draft because he had the best hit tool in the class. His hitting brings back memories of Joe Mauer and Mark Teixeira when they were drafted in the first round in 2001. Bazzana has elite plate discipline, electric bat speed and special barrel awareness — and he’s a threat on the basepaths. I also like that he hits lefties and righties equally well.

5. Marcelo Mayer, SS, Red Sox (Triple A)

Age: 21
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-3 Weight: 188
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 55 RUN: 45 ARM: 60 FLD: 55

Marcelo Mayer made great adjustments at the plate this year, slashing .307/.370/.480 with 28 doubles, eight home runs and 13 stolen bases over 77 games at Double A before suffering a season-ending back injury. He’s a plus defender with a strong arm and he has special leadership qualities. He is poised to be Boston’s starting shortstop for years to come and should be ready for the majors sometime next summer.

6. Charlie Condon, OF, Rockies (High A)

Age: 21
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-6 Weight: 216
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 75 RUN: 45 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

Before being drafted third overall in July, Charlie Condon broke the modern-day single-season collegiate record with 37 home runs thanks to his prodigious power, which extends from foul pole to foul pole. He also was SEC Player of the Year and the Golden Spikes Award winner. He’s gotten off to a slow start at High A, hitting .193 with a .545 OPS in 90 plate appearances, but just imagine how his power is going to play when he eventually reaches the majors, considering he’ll have half his games at Coors Field.

7. Noah Schultz, LHP, White Sox (Double A)

Age: 21
Height: 6-9 Weight: 220
Scouting grades: FB: 65 SLI 70 CH: 50 CTL: 55 CMND: 55

A 6-foot-9 frame usually makes it difficult for a pitcher to have a consistent release point and above-average command and control, but don’t tell that to Noah Schultz, who defies the odds. His fastball ranges from 93-98 mph to go with a wipeout slider and nasty sweeper. He throws from a low three-quarters arm slot with plus extension that makes it tough for left-handed hitters to barrel his pitches. He has a 2.23 ERA over 21 starts this season between High A and Double A and has averaged 11.6 strikeouts per nine innings and 2.57 walks per nine. He’s the best left-handed pitching prospect in baseball right now.

8. Chase Dollander, RHP, Rockies (Double A)

Age: 22
Height: 6-2 Weight: 200
Scouting grades: FB: 70 SLI 60 CB: 50 CH: 55 CTL: 60 CMND: 55

Chase Dollander has a mid-to-high-90s fastball, an above-average slider and changeup and a barely average curveball. This season he’s posted a 2.34 ERA over 21 starts across High A and Double A with 159 strikeouts and 42 walks in 107 2/3 innings. He should be major-league-ready next summer.

9. Samuel Basallo, C/1B, Orioles (Triple A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-4 Weight: 180
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 65 RUN: 45 ARM: 60 FLD: 45

For whatever reason, Samuel Basallo doesn’t get the same attention as many of the Orioles’ top prospects, which is difficult to understand if you’ve seen him swing a bat. He posted an .820 OPS this season at Double A, with 22 doubles, 16 homers and 55 RBIs in 398 at-bats, but got off to a slow start after his recent promotion to Triple A. He’s a below-average defender behind the plate with a strong arm, but there is no doubt he’s going to hit for power at the next level. In all likelihood, Basallo will eventually share catching, first base and DH duties with Adley Rutschman when fully developed as the Orioles will aim to keep both catchers healthy for the long term.

10. Carson Williams, SS, Rays (Double A)

Age: 21
Bats: R Throws: R
Weight: 6-2 Weight: 181
Scouting grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 60 RUN: 55 ARM: 65 FLD: 65

Carson Williams is an elite defender at shortstop with plus range to both sides and a cannon for an arm. At the plate, he’s a .350-type on-base percentage hitter with 20-25 home run power and the ability to steal 30 bases. He will be the Rays’ long-term answer at shortstop once he’s major-league-ready, which should be sometime next year.

11. Kristian Campbell, 2B/OF, Red Sox (Triple A)

Age: 22
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-3 Weight: 191
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 55 RUN: 60 ARM: 50 FLD: 45

I hadn’t seen Kristian Campbell, Boston’s fourth-round pick in 2023, until this year — and when I did, I practically fell to the ground because he was so exciting. Talk about an electric bat and a speed-power combination to dream on. This year he has zoomed through the Red Sox system, slashing .334/.442/.568 with 19 home runs, 72 RBIs and 23 stolen bases across three levels. He’s wicked good.

12. Kyle Teel, C, Red Sox (Triple A)

Age: 22
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-0 Weight: 190
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 45 ARM: 60 FLD: 55

Watching Kyle Teel at this year’s Futures Game, I thought about Carlton Fisk and Jason Varitek because Teel is on his way to being Boston’s long-term solution at catcher. All of his tools are above average, outside of his running. He’s a leader who takes charge of the pitching staff. He’s an above-average game caller. And he has the intangibles teams want in a catcher. At the plate, Teel draws walks and doesn’t chase much. His career on-base percentage is .393 over two minor-league seasons.

13. JJ Wetherholt, 2B, Cardinals (Low A)

Age: 21
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 5-10 Weight: 190
Scouting grades: HIT: 65 PWR: 55 RUN: 60 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

JJ Wetherholt had the second-best hit tool in this year’s draft class behind Bazzana. He’s dealt with hamstring issues but when healthy profiles as a .300 hitter with table-setting qualities and above-average power. His best position is second base and because of his bat, he get to the big leagues quickly. The Cardinals were fortunate he dropped to them at No. 7 in the draft.

14. Chase Burns, RHP, Reds (Rookie level)

Age: 21
Height: 6-3 Weight: 210
Scouting grades: FB: 65 SLI 70 CB: 60 CH: 55 CTL: 50 CMND: 45

Chase Burns was the best starting pitcher in this year’s draft and Cincinnati took him with the second overall pick. He averaged 17.2 strikeouts per nine innings last season at Wake Forest thanks to a 98-100 mph fastball and a wipeout slider. He also mixes in a curveball and changeup. The command and late life on his fastball need to be tightened up before he’ll be major-league-ready, but he profiles as a No. 2 starter when fully developed.

15. Jac Caglianone, 1B, Royals (High A)

Age: 21
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-5 Weight: 250
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 75 RUN: 40 ARM: 65 FLD: 55

Jac Caglianone was the best two-way player drafted this year, landing with Kansas City, which took him with the sixth overall pick. However, first base is his day job, where he projects to have 35-40 home run power. He reminds me a lot of the Braves first baseman Matt Olson. Caglianone is a dead pull hitter who chases out of the zone way too much but somehow doesn’t have the strikeouts to match the flaw. As a pitcher, he profiles more as a reliever than a starter with a 96-98 mph fastball as his best offering. I envision Caglianone as a long-term position player who could remain a two-way player as a left-handed reliever — either as a specialist or set-up man.

16. Hagen Smith, LHP, White Sox (High A)

Age: 21
Height: 6-3 Weight: 225
Scouting grades: FB: 65 SLI: 65 SF: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 50

Selected at No. 5 in the 2024 draft, Hagen Smith was the best left-handed pitcher in this year’s draft class. He averaged 17.3 strikeouts per nine innings last season with Arkansas en route to being named SEC pitcher of the year. His fastball is 94-98 mph and he has a wipeout slider. He also has a changeup he throws to right-handed hitters and a split-finger with above-average tumble action. His low-three-quarters crossfire angle is filthy.

17. Dalton Rushing, C, Dodgers (Triple A)

Age: 23
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 220

Scouting grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 40 ARM: 55 FLD: 45

The Dodgers consider Dalton Rushing their best overall prospect, but his road to the major leagues is blocked by their starting catcher, Will Smith. In my view, that will eventually make him a trade asset they could package to land someone like White Sox starter Garrett Crochet. With 22 homers, 76 RBIs and a .276/.390/.516 slash line this year between Double A and Triple A, Rushing is having another banner season. He has also played some outfield, which gives him and the Dodgers positional flexibility with Smith signed long term.

18. Nick Kurtz, 1B, A’s (Double A)

Age: 21
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-5 Weight: 240
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 70 RUN: 40 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

If you like hitters with power, you are going to love Nick Kurtz because he can flat-out hit with legitimate upper-deck power. In my view, there’s little question he will eventually become a middle-of-the-order impact bat for the A’s. He makes loud sweet-spot contact with his plus-plus bat speed and consistently generates hard exit velocity. He’s an average defender at first base. Scouts I’ve talked with describe Kurtz as a cross between Kyle Schwarber and Andrew Vaughn. His only weak tool is his lack of speed.

19. Christian Moore, 2B, Angels (Double A)

Age: 21
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 210
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 60 RUN: 50 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

Christian Moore batted .375/.451/.797 with 34 home runs and 74 RBIs this past season at Tennessee and helped the Vols win their first College World Series. He was drafted eighth overall by the Angels and hasn’t stopped hitting early in his minor-league career, slashing .330/.381/.567 with six home runs and 16 RBIs in 105 plate appearances. He has a chance to become one of the best offensive second basem*n in the game when fully developed. Moore exited a game last Friday after suffering a knee injury. The Angels said this week he had been diagnosed with a meniscus injury in his left knee and is not expected to require surgery.

20. Kumar Rocker, RHP, Rangers (Triple A)

Age: 24
Height: 6-5 Weight: 245
Scouting grades: FB: 65 SLI 70 CB: 60 CH: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 45

Kumar Rocker is back after undergoing Tommy John surgery in May 2023 — and he’s dealing. The former first-round pick of the Mets and Rangers is again throwing absolute gas with a 98 mph fastball, along with a wipeout slider, nasty curve and adequate changeup. This season across three levels he’s recorded 47 strikeouts with only four walks in 31 2/3 innings over nine appearances. He should be ready to make the Rangers’ rotation out of spring training next year.

21. Roman Anthony, OF, Red Sox (Triple A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-2 Weight: 200
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 50 ARM: 50 FLD: 55

Roman Anthony has special bat speed and above-average line-drive and loft power. He knows how to work a count and has made great strides this year in shortening his swing and improving his strike zone awareness. He has slashed .281/.374/.501 this season with 26 doubles, 18 homers, 57 RBIs and 17 stolen bases between Double A and Triple A. He has a high baseball IQ and soon will likely be the everyday right fielder for the Red Sox with a strong arm. (Long term, I like Anthony over Wilyer Abreu, who could eventually move to left field or be traded.)

22. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF, Twins (Triple A)

Age: 21
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 5-11 Weight: 210
Scouting grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 60 RUN: 55 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

Last season at High A, Emmanuel Rodriguez reached base at a .400 clip with 16 home runs and 20 stolen bases. Despite missing time for thumb and wrist injuries, he’s continued that success this year, slashing .279/.463/.579 with eight homers and nine steals in 42 games, mostly at Double A. The Twins promoted Rodriguez to Triple A earlier this week.

23. Brady House, 3B, Nationals (Triple A)

Age: 21
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-4 Weight: 208
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 50 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

Last year, Brady House slashed .312/.365/.497 with 12 home runs and 47 RBIs between A-ball and Double A. This year, his slash line has dipped to .246/.307/.423 between Double A and Triple A, but he has 18 home runs and 62 RBIs. When you watch House take batting practice, it’s evident he has 25-30 home run power — or maybe even more. He’s only 21 and his power is still raw, but if it comes together he should be the total package: hitting for average and power while playing an adequate third base. With James Wood and Dylan Crews now promoted to the big leagues, House is the Nationals’ best position-player prospect waiting in the wings. It’s only a matter of time.

24. Ethan Salas, C, Padres (High A)

Age: 18
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 185
Scouting grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 45 ARM: 60 FLD: 70

Ethan Salas has had a disappointing season, hitting just .209 in the High A-Midwest League, although he has 27 doubles to go with four home runs and 10 steals. After watching him live in this year’s Futures Game and seeing his quick wrists and electric bat speed, I’m not worried about his down year offensively. Remember, he’s only 18 years old. He’s a strong defensive catcher with quick hands, feet and release and an arm that can stop the running game. I still think he’s going to hit and in time will have 15-20 home run power.

25. Matt Shaw, 2B/3B, Cubs (Triple A)

Age: 22
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 5-9 Weight: 185
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 55 ARM: 45 FLD: 50

I was surprised when the Cubs acquired Isaac Paredes at the trade deadline because I had projected Matt Shaw as their everyday third baseman in 2025. Shaw was one of the best hitting prospects in the 2023 draft thanks to his short, compact swing and ability to hit line drives from foul pole to foul pole. Drafted 13th overall last year, Shaw has put together an impressive season, slashing .277/.377/.464 with 17 home runs and 28 stolen bases between Double A and Triple A. He can play second base and shortstop in addition to third. It will be interesting to see where the Cubs end up using him when he’s major-league-ready.

26. Termarr Johnson, 2B, Pirates (Double A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 5-8 Weight: 175
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 50 ARM: 50 FLD: 55

Termarr Johnson has reached base at a .364 clip this year between High A and Double A while collecting 14 home runs, 76 runs scored, 48 RBIs and 21 stolen bases. I’ve often compared him to a left-handed-hitting Jose Altuve, while others have even suggested José Ramírez as a comp. Like Altuve and Ramírez, he has a short, compact swing with surprising power for his frame. Perhaps he won’t live up to those lofty comparisons, but I do think he’ll develop into an All-Star-caliber player.

27. Xavier Isaac, 1B, Rays (Double A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-4 Weight: 240
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 70 RUN: 50 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

Xavier Isaac has elite bat speed and exit velocity. He makes loud sweet-spot contact, which has led to scouts and evaluators comparing him to the likes of David Ortiz and Yordan Alvarez. He can flat-out rake with upper-deck power. He’s posted an .841 OPS this season with 17 home runs, 73 RBIs and 15 stolen bases between High A and Double A. The Rays view him as their long-term solution at first base in time.

28. Bryce Rainer, SS, Tigers (Rookie level)

Age: 19
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-3 Weight: 198
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 55 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

Bryce Rainer reminds me of a young Corey Seager as he’s a large-framed shortstop and a plus defender who can throw 94-95 mph from the hole. Drafted at No. 11 this year, Rainer was the best overall high school shortstop in this year’s draft class. He has average bat speed and at times is late on high velocity, but that’s because he sometimes wraps his bat, which is easily correctable.

29. Konnor Griffin, SS, Pirates (Rookie level)

Age: 18
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-4 Weight: 215
Scouting grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 60 RUN: 65 ARM: 70 FLD: 60

The Pirates selected Konnor Griffin with the ninth overall pick in this year’s draft, and I had a difficulty deciding how to rank him compared to Rainer, so I texted evaluators with major-league teams and was fascinated to learn the league was split in terms of whom they like more. If a team valued the hit tool the most, it seemed to like Rainer slightly better; if a team valued all five tools equally, Griffin got the nod. Rainer clearly has the better hit tool but Griffin is a true five-tool player and can really fly, stealing bases almost at will, as shown by his 87 steals in 88 attempts in high school this spring.

30. Josue De Paula, OF, Dodgers (High A)

Age: 19
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-3 Weight: 185
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 55 RUN: 45 ARM: 50 FLD: 45

Here comes the next star in the Dodgers’ farm system. Josue De Paula looks like he’s going to hit for both average and power and he has a chance to be a middle-of-the-lineup bat when fully developed. However, he needs to significantly improve in the outfield.He has batted .261/.398/.399 with 28 extra-base hits and 24 steals this season between Low A and High A.Of note, Juan Soto of the Yankees speaks highly of De Paula and his potential.

31. Aidan Miller, SS, Phillies (Double A)

Age: 20
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 205
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR:55 RUN: 50 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

Aidan Miller has slashed .264/.372/.445 this season across three levels with 28 doubles, 11 home runs, 60 RBIs and 22 stolen bases in 27 attempts. He was promoted to Double A on Tuesday. Miller has strong bat-to-ball skills and consistently generates above-average exit velocity. He’s the Phillies’ best position-player prospect and they have continued to say no when teams call to inquire about him in trade talks. They likely won’t rush him to the majors with Trea Turner in place as the starting shortstop, but at some point during Turner’s 10-year contract, he’ll probably have to change positions for Miller unless they eventually use the 20-year-old as a trade asset.

32. Brayden Taylor, INF, Rays (Double A)

Age: 22
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-0 Weight: 180
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 50 ARM: 55 FLD: 55

Drafted 19th overall last year, Brayden Taylor has been raking this season with an .842 OPS. He has 26 doubles, eight triples, 17 home runs, 53 RBIs and 28 stolen bases between High A and Double A. He’s played second, short and third. His hit tool should get him to the major leagues sometime next year.

33. Bryce Eldridge, 1B/OF, Giants (Double A)

Age: 19
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-7 Weight: 223
Scouting grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 60 RUN: 40 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

It’s amazing how well Bryce Eldridge covers the strike zone given his 6-7 frame. Power and arm strength are his best tools. He’s slashed .293/.376/.534 in his first full pro season after being drafted 16th overall in 2023, with 22 home runs and 87 RBIs across three levels. (He was promoted to Double A on Tuesday.)

34. Leodalis De Vries, SS, Padres (Low A)

Age: 17
Bats: B Throws: R
Height: 6-2 Weight: 183
Scouting grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 65 ARM: 55 FLD: 50

Leodalis De Vries was the top international prospect in 2024, and the Dominican teenager signed with the Padres in January for $4.2 million. A switch hitter, De Vries has elite plate discipline for his age and makes consistent sweet-spot contact. He has above-average bat speed with plus power and plus-plus speed. He’s an average defender at shortstop but makes up for it with first-step quickness and a strong arm from the hole.

35. Cam Collier, 3B, Reds (High A)

Age: 19
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 210
Scouting grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 50 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

Cam Collier was the MVP of this year’s Future Game. He impressed in batting practice and the game and was one of two batters who homered in the annual prospect showcase. During BP, he hit line drives and bombs everywhere thanks to his short, compact swing. He’s done a good job of closing a lot of his holes at the plate this year. Collier has played the entire season at High-A Dayton, reaching base at a .356 clip with20 home runs and 74 RBIs.

36. Enrique Bradfield Jr., CF, Orioles (Double A)

Age: 22
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-1 Weight: 173
Scouting grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 30 RUN: 80 ARM: 45 FLD: 75

Enrique Bradfield Jr. is among the best leadoff hitters in the minor leagues, with blazing speed that’s allowed him to steal 69 bases this year. He’s logged a .348 on-base percentage this season between High A and Double A and continues to improve his hit tool. He profiles as a Gold Glove-caliber center fielder. Drafted 17th overall last year, Bradfield is the Orioles’ future center fielder and should be ready for the majors in 2026.

37. Thomas White, LHP, Marlins (High A)

Age: 19
Height: 6-5 Weight: 212
Scouting grades: FB: 60 CB: 60 CH: 55 CTL: 45 CMND: 45

A first-round pick in 2023, Thomas White has lived up to expectations this year, logging a 2.67 ERA over 20 starts between Low A and High A with 113 strikeouts in 91 innings. His pitch mix includes a mid-90s fastball, knee-buckling curveball and deceptive changeup. While he’s averaged 11.2 strikeouts per nine innings, he needs to improve his control as he’s issued 3.8 walks per nine.

38. Kevin McGonigle, 2B/SS, Tigers (High A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 5-10 Weight: 188
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 45 RUN: 55 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

The Tigers drafted Kevin McGonigle with the 37th pick last year and it looks like they landed another legitimate middle-infield bat. McGonigle can flat-out hit and has 64 walks to 38 strikeouts over his two minor-league seasons. This year he’s slashed .309/.401/.452 with 16 doubles and 22 stolen bases in 24 attempts between Low A and High A. He has played both second and shortstop and the Tigers view his positional flexibility as an asset.

39. Sebastian Walcott, 3B, Rangers (High A)

Age: 18
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-4 Weight: 190
Scouting grades: HIT: 45 PWR: 60 RUN: 55 ARM: 65 FLD: 55

Sebastian Walcott signed with the Rangers for $3.2 million out of the Bahamas in 2023 and he performed so well in his second pro season that he made the Futures Game roster this year. He has batted .258/.342/.431 with 30 doubles, six triples, 10 home runs and 24 stolen bases. He’s played both shortstop and third base, and has committed 23 errors in 76 games at short and five errors in 20 games at third. He’s raw but uber-talented.

40. Colt Emerson, SS, Mariners (High A)

Age: 19
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 195
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 50 RUN: 50 ARM: 55 FLD: 50

I absolutely love his left-handed swing, but Colt Emerson’s results haven’t always matched his mechanics. He’s struggled since being promoted to High A-Everett in early August, hitting .200 in 100 at-bats. However, before that this season with Low-A Modesto, he hit .293 with a .440 on-base percentage over 40 games. He’s mostly played shortstop but also logged some time at second and third base.

41. Bubba Chandler, RHP, Pirates (Triple A)

Age: 21
Height: 6-2 Weight: 200
Scouting grades: FB: 60 SLI 55 CB: 50 CH: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 50

Despite their fade in the standings, it was an exciting year for the Pirates with the promotions and success of rookie starters Paul Skenes and Jared Jones. And they have another intriguing arm on the way in Bubba Chandler, who features a mid-to-high-90s fastball and an above-average curveball in his four-pitch mix. A 2021 third-round pick, Chandler posted a 3.24 ERA over 24 appearances (21 starts) this season with 130 strikeouts in 108 1/3 innings between Double A and Triple A. He’s 3-0 with a 1.93 ERA in five starts with Triple-A Indianapolis. Chandler profiles as a solid No. 3 type starter in the Pirates’ rotation and is ready whenever they decide to make the call.

42. Druw Jones, CF, Diamondbacks (Low A)

Age: 20
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-4 Weight: 180
Scouting grades: HIT: 45 PWR: 55 RUN: 70 ARM: 60 FLD: 70

Druw Jones’ career has been slowed by injuries since he was drafted second overall in 2022, but he’s made significant progress in his development this summer. Like his father, Andruw Jones, Druw is an elite defender with special range in all directions. This year with Low-A Visalia, he has slashed .272/.404/.391 with 15 doubles, seven triples, five home runs, 61 RBIs and 19 stolen bases in 25 attempts.

43. Cole Young, 2B/SS, Mariners (Double A)

Age: 21
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-0 Weight: 180
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 40 RUN: 55 ARM: 55 FLD: 50

Cole Young is another Mariners shortstop with a 60-grade hit tool. He’s a pure hitter who uses the whole field and makes consistent contact. Last year he walked 88 times and struck out 90 times, and this year he has 63 walks to 80 strikeouts. He has plus gap power and hits high velocity. His ability to spit on balls out of the strike zone is a differentiator. He’s an average defender at second base and shortstop with a plus arm. He’s hit .269/.368/.395 this season at Double A with 32 extra-base hits, 52 RBIs and 23 steals in 33 attempts.

44. Cade Horton, RHP, Cubs (Triple A)

Age: 23
Height: 6-1 Weight: 210
Scouting grades: FB: 60 SLI 65 CB: 50 CH: 45 CTL: 55 CMND: 45

Cade Horton has been the Cubs’ top pitching prospect since he was drafted seventh overall in 2022. This year he’s dealt with a subscapularis strain in his right shoulder that’s slowed his progress. He managed to make nine starts between Double A and Triple A, tallying a 4.46 ERA overall with 10.5 strikeouts per nine innings and 3.41 walks per nine. His last start was May 29. When healthy, Horton has a 95-98 mph fastball and a wipeout slider along with an average curveball and developing changeup. The Cubs aren’t looking to push him this year but say he’ll be ready to “rock and roll come spring training.”

45. Owen Caissie, OF, Cubs (Triple A)

Age: 22
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-3 Weight: 190
Scouting grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 60 RUN: 45 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

The Cubs love his power, and they should as Owen Caissie hit 22 home runs last year in Double A and has another 15 this year at Triple A, but it’s his ability to get on base (career .383 OBP) that impresses me the most. Defensively, he projects as an adequate corner outfielder with a right field arm. Caissie, whom the Cubs acquired as part of the Yu Darvish trade in December 2020, appears ready for the majors now.

46. Brandon Sproat, RHP, Mets (Triple A)

Age: 23
Height: 6-3 Weight: 215
Scouting grades: FB: 65 SLI 60 CB: 40 CH: 55 CT: 55

A second-round pick in 2023, Brandon Sproat has not disappointed. He has a fastball that sits 95-98 mph. He throws two types of sliders or cutters — whatever you want to call them — that have different breaks and he has a plus changeup as well. He’s logged a 3.02 ERA and 1.033 WHIP this season with 127 strikeouts over 110 1/3 innings across three levels. He should start next year in Triple A and be ready for the majors sometime next summer.

47. Jeferson Quero, C, Brewers (Triple A)

Age: 21
Height: 5-11 Weight: 215
Scouting grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 50 RUN: 40 ARM: 60 FLD: 75

Jeferson Quero is one of the top catching prospects in baseball but his path is blocked by William Contreras, one of MLB’s top catchers, in Milwaukee. It’s a good problem for the Brewers to have. Quero is an elite defender with a wicked arm that can shut down the running game. Even though he was limited to only one game this year due to season-ending shoulder surgery, he still belongs in the top 50 because he is a Gold Glove-caliber catcher with above-average power who profiles as a future All-Star. When healthy, he’ll be much higher on this list. According to the Brewers, he’s expected to make a full recovery from the surgery that repaired his dislocated right shoulder and torn labrum. Last year at Double A, Quero slashed .262/.339/.440 with 12 doubles, 16 home runs and 49 RBIs. He should play all next year at Triple A and be ready in case Contreras gets injured or the Brewers decide to trade one of their catchers.

48. Lazaro Montes, OF, Mariners (High A)

Age: 19
Bats: T Throws: R
Height: 6-3 Weight: 210
Scouting grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 70 RUN: 50 ARM: 50 FLD: 40

Lazaro Montes might be the most underrated player on this list — he has that much upside offensively. He has tremendous batting practice power that hasn’t fully translated to game power. He’s reached base at a .396 clip this year with 21 home runs and 102 RBIs between Low A and High A. He needs to improve a lot defensively, but the bat plays.

49. Tink Hence, RHP, Cardinals (Double A)

Age: 22
Height: 6-1 Weight: 195
Scouting grades: FB: 60 SLI 55 CB: 50 CH: 60 CTL: 50 CMND: 45

Tink Hence has had a bounce-back season at Double A, posting a 2.76 ERA over 19 starts with 108 strikeouts and 25 walks in 78 1/3 innings. His fastball is in the mid-to-high-90s and his changeup remains his best secondary pitch, with fade and deception. His breaking balls can be wipeout quality at times but they need to be more consistent. He missed a month this season with shoulder tightness, but if healthy, he should be ready to compete for a rotation spot sometime next year, perhaps as early as spring training.

50. Moises Ballesteros, C, Cubs (Triple A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 5-7 Weight: 195
Scouting grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 50 RUN: 30 ARM: 50 FLD: 45

Moises Ballesteros looks like a left-handed Alejandro Kirk with a short, stout frame and short, compact swing that are reminiscent of the Blue Jays catcher. He has great plate discipline and pitch recognition and surprising power that should eventually result in an 18-22 home-run bat in the majors. This year, he’s slashed .289/.358/.485 with 20 doubles, 19 home runs and 71 RBIs between Double A and Triple A.

(Top image: Travis Bazzana Nick Cammett / Diamond Images / Getty Images; Jackson Jobe: Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images; Marcelo Mayer: Maddie Malhotra / Boston Red Sox / Getty Images)