Shohei Ohtani continues to blaze trails in the realm of baseball. By excelling as a two-way player longer and better than anyone before him, he has made history as the first athlete to achieve 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season.
Ohtani’s remarkable achievements in power and speed have prompted us to consider which prospects showcase the best blend of these skills. While we do not imply that these players will replicate Ohtani’s success, they are poised to leave their mark in the major leagues with their ability to hit with power and run quickly. Leading our list is Dylan Crews, who is already proving himself with the Nationals.
1. Dylan Crews, OF, Nationals (No. 1)
Nationals fans have had the opportunity to witness Crews’ impressive power-speed combination, as the second overall pick of 2023 has launched three homers and swiped nine bases in just 22 MLB games. The metrics support these statistics; his 29.4 feet per second Sprint Speed places him in the 94th percentile in the Majors, and his barrel rate would be impressive if he had sufficient at-bats to qualify. Crews was primarily recognized for his power during his college career, hitting 58 homers in three seasons at LSU, but he has also displayed greater aggressiveness on the basepaths professionally. If he maintains this trend alongside his remarkable tools, he has the potential for at least a 30-30 season as a vital component of the Nationals’ roster.
2. Jasson Domínguez, OF, Yankees (No. 14)
No player has attracted more attention as an international amateur than Domínguez, who signed with the Yankees for $5.1 million out of the Dominican Republic in 2019, drawing comparisons to legends like Bo Jackson, Mickey Mantle, and Mike Trout. While those comparisons might be somewhat exaggerated, Domínguez still possesses genuine 30-30 potential. He hit four homers in his first eight big league games last September at the age of 20 before suffering an elbow injury that led to Tommy John surgery. Over 352 Minor League games, he has amassed 47 home runs and 102 stolen bases.
3. Konnor Griffin, SS/OF, Pirates (No. 51)
Griffin, selected as the No. 9 overall pick in this year’s Draft, showcased the finest all-around tools of the entire class, earning a 60 power grade and a 65 for speed. While we won’t witness his talents in action until 2025, his raw power and speed are undeniable. The only concern regarding Griffin is his hitting ability; otherwise, he could easily top this list.
4. Kristian Campbell, 2B/SS/OF, Red Sox (No. 74)
During his sole season at Georgia Tech in 2023, Campbell exhibited average raw power and above-average speed, but he struggled to maximize either skill in games, resulting in a drop to the 132nd pick until the Red Sox selected him in the supplemental fourth round. After Boston assisted him in enhancing his strength, bat speed, and swing mechanics, he has experienced perhaps the most significant breakout season in the Minors. He posted a slash line of .330/.439/.558 with 20 home runs and 24 stolen bases over 115 games while progressing from High-A to Triple-A.
5. Leodalis De Vries, SS, Padres (No. 44)
Typically, evaluations of 17-year-olds focus on projection, but De Vries already has some production to justify his ranking. This year’s top international prospect hit 11 home runs and recorded 13 steals in 75 games for Single-A Lake Elsinore during his first Minor League season, and his totals would have been even higher had his
Had it not been for a shoulder injury, his campaign might have seen greater success. The switch-hitting shortstop possesses the agility of a point guard along with developing power, showcased by his .557 slugging percentage in the final 24 games of 2024. This talent provides him the opportunity to become San Diego’s next star prospect, akin to Fernando Tatis Jr. and Jackson Merrill.
6. Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF, Twins (No. 19)
Rodriguez has faced significant time on the sidelines due to injuries over the past few years, as he has yet to complete a season with 100 games played. In 2023, he managed to hit 16 home runs and steal 20 bases across 99 games. Despite his time on the injured list, he reached Triple-A by the age of 21. This season, Rodriguez found himself back on the IL after spraining his thumb. Nevertheless, if you average his career statistics over 140 games, it suggests he could potentially produce nearly 27 home runs and 30 stolen bases.
7. Vance Honeycutt, OF, Orioles (O’s No. 3)
Similar to Griffin, Honeycutt is a first-round pick from 2024 with impressive tools (60 power, 65 run). However, the North Carolina native has more skepticism surrounding his hitting ability, given that he struck out in nearly 43 percent of his plate appearances during his professional debut. Despite concerns about his swing-and-miss tendencies, Honeycutt delivered 20-20 performances as a freshman in 2022 (25 HR, 29 SB) and again this past spring (28 HR, 28 SB).
8. Sebastian Walcott, SS, Rangers (No. 35)
Among the 2023 international class, Walcott exhibited some of the finest all-around tools, including exceptional power, remarkable straight-line speed, and above-average arm strength. This talent earned him a $3.2 million signing bonus, and some scouts believe he could be the best player to emerge from the Bahamas. The Rangers have put him to the test, and he has responded effectively by leading the High-A South Atlantic League in extra-base hits (50) and total bases (192) as its youngest regular at just 18 years old. He posted a batting line of .261/.342/.443, including 10 home runs and 26 stolen bases in 116 games. After being promoted to Double-A in September, he recorded 8 hits in 23 at-bats with a home run in five games.
9. Travis Bazzana, 2B, Guardians (No. 11)
On his way to potentially becoming the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 Draft, Bazzana set single-season records for home runs (28 in 60 games this spring) and stolen bases (36 in 61 games last year) at Oregon State. While he displays solid power and excellent speed, his most outstanding trait is his double-plus hitting ability. As a junior, he boasted an impressive slash line of .407/.568/.911, placing second in NCAA Division I for on-base percentage, slugging, and OPS (1.479). In his 27-game professional debut at High-A, he hit three home runs and swiped five bases.
10. Jordan Lawlar, SS, D-backs (No. 7)
Injuries to his thumb and hamstring have rendered this a largely unproductive season for the 2021 sixth overall pick, but it shouldn’t overshadow his previous performance, where he combined for 36 home runs and 75 stolen bases in his last two Minor League seasons before 2024. His elite speed is likely game-changing, a significant factor in Arizona including him on their postseason roster last year. While hitter-friendly conditions in Amarillo and Reno may have inflated his home run totals, there remains enough power potential for him to hit over 25 home runs at his Major League peak. Lawlar only turned 22 in July.
11. Carson Williams, SS, Rays (No. 4)
In the Minor Leagues, there exists only one player aged 21 or younger who has achieved at least 19 home runs and 20 stolen bases this season. That player is, of course, Williams, who has recorded 20 homers and 33 steals across 115 games for Double-A Montgomery. This marks Williams’ third consecutive year aiming for 20-20 status; he fell just one home run short in 2022. His above-average speed, coupled with impressive raw power and a tendency to elevate the ball, suggests he will continue to pursue those benchmarks even at the Major League level. The sole drawback may be his generally high strikeout rate, which, however, has improved to a more manageable 28.5 percent in 2024.
12. Walker Jenkins, OF, Twins (No. 2)
For the No. 5 overall pick in the 2023 Draft, power takes precedence over speed (60 compared to 55), and the 19-year-old outfielder is still in the process of mastering both skills. A hamstring injury that sidelined him certainly hampered his performance during his first full season, yet he has managed to steal 17 bases and hit six home runs, along with 22 doubles, in a total of 82 games. Remarkably, he advanced to Double-A despite his time on the injured list.
Exploring the Next Generation: MLB Prospects Poised for 30-30 Stardom
In the ever-evolving landscape of Major League Baseball, prospects are the lifeblood of franchises, bringing hope and excitement for the future. Among these young talents, a select few are showing the potential to achieve the coveted 30-30 milestone—30 home runs and 30 stolen bases in a single season. This article delves into the MLB prospects who are not only making waves in the minor leagues but also appear ready to dazzle fans with their explosive two-way abilities.
What Does 30-30 Stardom Mean?
The 30-30 club is one of the most celebrated achievements in baseball. It requires a player to hit at least 30 home runs and steal at least 30 bases in the same season. This accomplishment showcases a player’s power, speed, and overall athleticism. Historically, only a handful of players have reached this milestone, making it a hallmark of elite talent.
The Significance of 30-30 Players in Today’s Game
- Marketability: Players who achieve 30-30 status often become fan favorites, increasing their marketability and the overall appeal of the sport.
- Team Impact: A 30-30 player can significantly impact a team’s success, providing both power and speed at the top of the lineup.
- Changing Dynamics: With the shift in baseball analytics, teams are placing higher value on multi-dimensional players, making 30-30 candidates even more coveted.
Current MLB Prospects to Watch
Here are some rising stars in the minor leagues who are potential candidates to join the illustrious 30-30 club:
| Player Name | Position | Team | 2023 Projections (HR/SB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jordan Walker | OF | St. Louis Cardinals | 30 HR / 25 SB |
| Gunnar Henderson | SS | Baltimore Orioles | 28 HR / 22 SB |
| Anthony Volpe | SS | New York Yankees | 27 HR / 30 SB |
| Elly De La Cruz | 3B | Cincinnati Reds | 25 HR / 35 SB |
| Marcelo Mayer | SS | Boston Red Sox | 25 HR / 30 SB |
Detailed Prospect Profiles
Jordan Walker
Jordan Walker, an outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, has quickly emerged as one of the game’s top prospects. At just 21 years old, he possesses a rare combination of power and speed, making him a candidate for 30-30 stardom. Walker’s power numbers are impressive, with a projected 30 home runs in the near future, while his agility on the base paths hints at the potential for 25 stolen bases.
Gunnar Henderson
Currently playing shortstop for the Baltimore Orioles, Gunnar Henderson is another prospect on the cusp of greatness. Henderson’s keen eye at the plate and ability to drive the ball could see him achieve 30 home runs, combined with his speed contributing an estimated 22 stolen bases in a season.
Anthony Volpe
As the New York Yankees’ top prospect, Anthony Volpe has become a household name among baseball fans. His explosive speed is complemented by an impressive swing, making him a likely candidate for the 30-30 club. Projections suggest he could achieve 27 home runs and 30 stolen bases in the coming seasons.
Elly De La Cruz
Elly De La Cruz, the standout third baseman for the Cincinnati Reds, has been turning heads with his dynamic play. His combination of raw power and elite speed makes him a prime candidate for the 30-30 milestone. With projections of 25 home runs and a whopping 35 stolen bases, De La Cruz represents the future of baseball.
Marcelo Mayer
Marcelo Mayer, a shortstop for the Boston Red Sox, showcases a blend of hitting prowess and speed. His skill set suggests he could contribute 25 home runs and 30 stolen bases, placing him squarely in the conversation for future 30-30 achievements.
Benefits of 30-30 Players for Teams
- Versatility: These players can excel in multiple facets of the game, providing lineup flexibility.
- Defensive Value: Many 30-30 candidates are also strong defenders, adding value beyond their offensive contributions.
- Fan Engagement: Star players drive attendance and viewership, boosting a franchise’s financial health.
Practical Tips for Evaluating Prospects
For scouts, analysts, and fans alike, evaluating MLB prospects involves assessing various metrics and intangibles:
- Statistical Highlights: Look for a combination of home runs, stolen bases, and batting average.
- Plate Discipline: Consider walk rates and strikeout percentages as indicators of a player’s ability to adapt.
- Physical Tools: Speed and power are essential; speed can often be quantified through sprint times.
- Player Development: Assess how a player has improved over the years and their dedication to training.
Case Studies: Players Who Achieved 30-30 Stardom
Looking back at players who have reached this milestone can provide insight into what it takes to join the 30-30 club:
- José Canseco: The first player to officially join the 30-30 club in 1988, Canseco’s combination of raw power and speed set the standard.
- Barry Bonds: A two-time 30-30 player, Bonds showcased the sheer dominance of a player who could change a game with one swing or steal.
- Alfonso Soriano: Soriano’s 2006 season with the Washington Nationals included 46 home runs and 41 stolen bases, proving the possibility of elite dual-threat talent.
First-Hand Experience: Watching Future Stars
As a baseball enthusiast, attending minor league games can be an exhilarating experience. Watching these prospects in person allows fans to appreciate their skills up close. Here are some tips to enhance your experience:
- Arrive Early: Get a good seat and watch batting practice to see their power in action.
- Focus on Base Running: Pay attention to how prospects read pitchers and take leads; it can be a good indicator of their future success.
- Engage with Scouts: Talk to scouts and analysts at the games to gain insights on players’ potential.
The Future of 30-30 Players
The landscape of baseball is changing, and the next generation of players is poised to redefine how the game is played. With an increasing emphasis on athleticism and versatility, the prospects highlighted in this article are on the brink of joining the elite ranks of 30-30 players. As we follow their journeys, we can expect thrilling performances that bring excitement to the diamond.
For fans and analysts alike, keeping an eye on these emerging talents will provide insights into the future of MLB and the next wave of baseball stars. The 30-30 club may expand in the coming years, and these prospects are leading the charge.
