“MLB Pipeline’s 2024 Farm System Rankings: A Comprehensive Look at the Top Minor League Prospects and Their Impact on Major League Success”

by americanosportscom 9 months ago

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Assessing the abilities of over 5,000 prospects at various ⁤development stages across 30 organizations is a challenging task to execute with accuracy. However, since the beginning of MLB Pipeline’s⁢ biannual farm system rankings‌ prior to the 2015 season, clubs that have secured the No. 1 position have displayed ⁢a remarkable pattern‍ of success almost immediately⁣ thereafter.

The Cubs (before 2015), Red Sox (mid-2015), Dodgers (before 2016), and Braves (before 2017) all transformed their‌ prospect talent into World Series victories.‌ The Brewers (mid-2016), White Sox (mid-2017), and ⁤Rays (from pre-2021 to ‌pre-2021) have achieved ⁢franchise records for consecutive playoff appearances,‌ with ⁢four,⁣ two, and five (and still ongoing) respectively.

The Padres (from pre-2018 to mid-2019)⁢ are nearing⁢ their third postseason appearance in five years, a feat they have ⁢never accomplished before. The Orioles (from mid-2021 to pre-2024) recorded 101 victories last year and have the ⁢potential ⁤to lead⁣ the American League in wins for the second consecutive⁢ season.

Tampa Bay ⁣ascends back to the No. 1 spot in our most recent system rankings, which reflect‌ long-term Major League value. This assessment considers impact talent, depth, the proximity ⁢of players to the Majors, and achieving a balance between position players, pitchers, and their respective ceilings and floors.⁣ The numbers within parentheses denote⁤ where prospects rank on our updated Top‌ 100 Prospects list.

1. Tampa Bay⁤ Rays
2024 preseason rank: 6
2023 midseason rank: 7
2023⁣ preseason ⁣rank: 6
2022 midseason rank: ‍ 8

Top 100 ⁣prospects: Junior Caminero,⁤ 3B/2B (No. 2);‌ Carson Williams, SS (No. 6); Xavier Isaac, 1B (No. 21); Brayden Taylor, SS/3B/2B⁣ (No. 50)

Tampa Bay’s ⁢system is⁣ already enhanced by top-tier talent in the players⁣ mentioned above, making it one of just two organizations ⁤with four prospects in the top 50 ⁣of the updated list (the Cubs being the other). Additionally, they featured the Minor League leader in both‌ batting average ⁤and ⁤stolen bases in⁣ Chandler Simpson and have several promising young pitchers like Gary Gil Hill and Santiago Suarez, along with solid hitters including Brailer Guerrero,‍ Tre’ Morgan, and Dominic Keegan. ‍The club’s proactive strategy to expand its ⁤system ‍during the Trade Deadline set it ⁢apart, resulting in the richest farm‌ system ⁤in baseball. Highlighted ⁤by‌ Aidan Smith, Dylan Lesko, and Brody Hopkins,‌ eight of the Rays’‍ Top 30 prospects⁤ joined the organization through trades in‌ July.

2. Minnesota Twins
2024 preseason rank: 15
2023 midseason rank: 17
2023 preseason rank: 19
2022 midseason rank: 23

Top⁢ 100 ⁤prospects: Walker Jenkins, ⁢OF (No. 4); Brooks Lee, INF (No. 16); Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF (No.⁤ 22); Luke Keaschall, 2B/OF (No. 67); Zebby Matthews, RHP (No. ⁤87); David Festa, RHP (No.⁤ 89)

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The Twins‌ not only boast three players ‍in the ⁣top 25,‍ but they also rank among‍ just ⁤five ‌teams with⁤ six players included in the Top 100. They are successfully uncovering ‍elite talent from their ⁣first-round selections and significant international signings, along with⁣ later-round finds. ⁢Matthews and Festa exemplify this‌ trend, and the Twins consistently discover major league pitching talent ‍at nearly every level of ⁣the Draft. This depth, coupled with the high-caliber players⁤ at ‍the top, renders their ‌system both deep and ⁣robust.

3. Baltimore Orioles
2024 preseason rank: 1
2023 midseason rank: 1
2023 preseason rank: 1
2022 midseason rank: 1

Top 100 prospects: Jackson Holliday, 2B/SS ⁤(No. ‍1); Coby Mayo, 3B/1B‍ (No. 10); ⁤Samuel Basallo, C/1B (No. 11)

This marks the end ⁣of a streak of six consecutive farm⁤ system rankings ‍placing the Orioles at the top, yet there remains plenty ⁤to appreciate about this system, particularly with three players in the top 11⁣ overall. The‌ inclusion of first-round pick Vance Honeycutt ‍adds another‍ highly talented player who ⁣could enter the ⁢Top ⁣100 if he ⁢demonstrates effective strike zone management. Several pitchers, including Cade Povich and Chayce McDermott, have already reached the majors and are expected to⁣ secure more stable roles in ⁢2025 and later. The advancement of ⁤players like right-hander Juan Nuñez and outfielder Stiven Martinez⁢ further solidifies the upper echelon of the Orioles’ list, even as the lower tier has diminished somewhat due to trades‍ and⁤ graduations.

4. ‌Cleveland Guardians
2024 preseason rank: 19
2023 ⁢midseason rank: 15
2023 preseason ‌rank: 4
2022 midseason rank: 3

Top⁢ 100 prospects: ⁢Travis Bazzana, 2B ⁤(No. 13); ⁤Chase‌ DeLauter, OF (No. 42); Kyle Manzardo, 1B (No.⁢ 52);⁢ Jaison ‍Chourio, OF (No. 70); Ralphy Velazquez, 1B (No. 77); Angel Genao, INF (No. 95)

The Guardians‍ took necessary steps ‌to‌ replenish their system after witnessing 17 ⁢rookies make ⁢their big league debuts ⁣in 2022 ⁣and five former Top⁣ 100 prospects elevate to the Majors ‍last season. ⁣They’ve achieved this successfully, achieving the largest rise⁣ (up 15 spots) since our March⁣ rankings and tying for the most ⁤teams with six players ‌in the Top 100. The development of young talents⁢ like Chourio, Velazquez, and Genao has been beneficial. ⁤Additionally,⁣ their unprecedented investment ⁢of $20.4 million in the Draft ⁤helped secure the best⁣ pure hitter⁢ available in ⁤Bazzana along with several promising high⁢ school pitchers.

5. Los Angeles Dodgers
2024 preseason‍ rank: 8
2023 midseason rank: 6
2023 preseason ⁢rank: 2
2022 midseason ⁢rank: 2

Top 100 prospects: Dalton ⁣Rushing, C/OF (No.‌ 39); Josue De Paula, OF (No. ⁢49); River Ryan, RHP‍ (No.
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65); Alex Freeland, SS (No. 79); Jackson Ferris, LHP (No. 90)

We make this observation each time⁤ we conduct system rankings: the Dodgers consistently excel at winning and ⁣nurturing ‍prospects.‍ They are guaranteed ‌their 12th consecutive playoff berth, and in response to⁤ the graduation of three Top 100⁤ prospects in 2023,⁢ they’ve seen De ‌Paula, Ryan, Freeland, and Ferris ‍ascend the list since the season’s ⁢inception. Furthermore, ‍they boast an impressive wave ⁤of emerging teenage talent, including shortstops Joendry ⁤Vargas, ⁤Emil Morales, and Kellon Lindsey,⁣ along with outfielders Eduardo Quintero, Zyhir Hope, and Ching-Hsien⁤ Ko.

6. Detroit Tigers
2024 preseason‍ rank: 5
2023 midseason rank: 13
2023 preseason rank: 25
2022 midseason rank: 22

Top 100 prospects: Max ‌Clark, OF (No. 7); Jackson Jobe, ‌RHP (No. 8); Kevin McGonigle, SS/2B (No. 33);‍ Bryce Rainer, SS (No. 61); Jace Jung,⁤ 3B/2B (No. 64)

While the‍ Tigers’ ‍farm system has seen the graduation of Colt Keith,⁢ McGonigle’s impressive ⁢performance in his first full season has maintained‌ the strength⁣ of Detroit’s‌ pipeline. ⁢Clark, Jobe, and ‌Jung continue to thrive as potential future stalwarts⁣ for the Motor⁢ City, and Rainer, ⁣a first-round pick, stood⁤ out as one of the top prep prospects in this year’s draft class. Additionally, ⁢acquiring ‌Thayron Liranzo ⁢in the Jack Flaherty trade added further promise, ⁢and Hao-Yu ‌Lee and⁢ Dillon Dingler have established ⁣themselves as ⁣top-10 talents⁤ within a competitive system.

7. Boston Red Sox
2024 preseason ‍rank: 14
2023 midseason rank: 16
2023 preseason rank: 16
2022 midseason rank: ⁢ 11

Top 100 prospects: Marcelo Mayer, SS (No. 5); ‌Roman Anthony, OF (No. 14); Kyle⁣ Teel, C (No. 27); Braden Montgomery, OF (No. 59); Kristian ⁢Campbell, ⁣2B/OF/SS (No. 80)

The‍ Red Sox⁤ possess an exceptional trio of prospects in Mayer, Anthony, and Teel, each ⁢of whom⁣ is on the‌ brink of reaching the Majors while competing⁢ in Triple-A. Campbell, a supplemental fourth-round pick from 2023, ‍has emerged as one of the⁤ standout ⁢performers in the Minors this season⁣ and isn’t far behind them. ⁤Outfielder Braden Montgomery, the No.⁢ 12 overall‌ selection in July,‍ along ⁢with international shortstops Franklin Arias and Yoeilin Cespedes, ‍also show ⁢potential to⁣ become All-Star ⁤caliber position players. However, the Red Sox lack depth in quality pitching.

8. Chicago ⁤Cubs
2024 preseason rank: 2
2023 midseason ‌rank: 4
2023 preseason ‌rank: 12
2022 midseason rank: 10

Top 100⁢ prospects:

Matt Shaw, INF (No. 25); Cade Horton, RHP (No. 31); Owen ‌Caissie, OF (No. 36); Moises Ballesteros, C/1B⁢ (No. 44); James Triantos,‍ 2B/OF (No. 60);‌ Kevin Alcántara, OF (No. 74)

This year, the Cubs ⁤have⁢ promoted four‌ former Top 100 prospects to Wrigley Field: Pete Crow-Armstrong, Michael Busch, Jordan Wicks, and Ben Brown. Despite this, they still share the organization lead with six current players in the Top ⁣100. All are ⁤currently in Triple-A and are poised to support the major league team soon. However, the system ⁢is heavily weighted at ⁤the top and declines‍ steeply after this group, along with the promising ‍shortstop Jefferson Rojas and first-rounder ⁣Cam Smith from 2024. Additionally, there is a notable ‌lack of pitching.

9. Seattle Mariners
2024 preseason rank: 18
2023 midseason rank: 19
2023⁢ preseason rank: 24
2022 midseason ⁤rank: 24

Top 100 prospects: Colt Emerson, SS (No. 30); Cole Young, SS/2B (No. 37); Lazaro Montes, OF (No. 48); Harry Ford, C (No. 53); Felnin Celesten, SS (No. 73); Tyler ‌Locklear, 1B (No. 94)

The⁤ Mariners are one of only five teams boasting six Top 100 prospects, and ⁣they⁢ stand alongside the ‌Guardians⁤ as the only teams featuring six hitters‍ on the list. The emerging young talent generates excitement, reflecting Seattle’s diverse approach—comprising three high school draftees, one college player,⁣ and two international signees. Beyond the leading players, the system is notably⁣ deep⁤ and ‍intriguing, featuring three pitchers in the top ‍10: Jurrangelo Cijntje and Ryan Sloan from this year’s Draft, along with Logan Evans, who ⁣has gained significant attention⁢ this year.

10. Washington Nationals
2024 preseason rank: 12
2023 midseason rank: 8
2023 preseason rank: 10
2022 midseason rank: ‌ 15

Top⁢ 100 ‍prospects: Dylan Crews, OF (No.‍ 3); Brady ‌House, 3B (No. 69); Travis Sykora, ‍RHP‍ (No. 100)

The Nationals likely‌ would have climbed a few spots higher if not for ⁤the graduation ⁣of James Wood over the weekend. (They⁤ will‌ happily take his contributions at the Major‍ League level). ‌In his absence, Crews and House remain consistent presences in the Top 100. ⁢The former is currently experiencing a surge‍ in Triple-A during‌ his first full season and might ⁢make an appearance in D.C. before the year’s end. Moreover, Washington has witnessed pitching breakthroughs from their 2023 third-round pick Sykora and the hard-throwing ⁣Jarlin⁣ Susana. ‍The organization has further ⁣expanded its system through ⁢trades (e.g., Alex Clemmey) and the Draft (e.g., Seaver King, Luke Dickerson, Caleb Lomavita, Kevin Bazzell). With the right approach, contention could soon be on the ⁣horizon in the ‌capital if the Nats complement these homegrown players⁢ with additional talent.

11.⁤ Chicago White Sox
2024 preseason rank: 20
2023 ⁤midseason rank: 8
2023⁢ preseason rank: 10
2022 midseason rank: 15

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2023 ⁤midseason rank: 20
2023 preseason rank: 26
2022 midseason rank: 26

Top‍ 100 prospects: Noah Schultz, LHP (No. ⁢15); Colson Montgomery, SS (No. ‍28); Hagen Smith,⁤ LHP (No. 32); Edgar Quero, C (No.⁣ 63)

The White Sox are having a rough ⁣season at the Major League ⁣level, ‍but their ⁣farm system has made notable ‍progress, rising from 26th at the beginning of 2023 to ⁣just outside the ⁣top ⁤10. This improvement is primarily due to two successful Drafts⁤ and a‍ number of trades involving veterans for prospects. Since last year,‍ the organization has welcomed‍ 20 ⁣new ⁣prospects into their Top 30 list, with the exceptions being 2022‌ first-round ⁤pick Schultz‍ and 2021 first-round pick Montgomery. Chicago ‌shares the ⁤distinction with the Marlins ⁣of having the second-highest ⁢number of ranked prospects (11, just⁢ one fewer than the‌ Rays) acquired through trades, yet they are tied with the Athletics for⁣ the ⁢fewest international‌ acquisitions, having secured only two.

12. Colorado Rockies
2024 preseason rank: 21
2023 midseason rank: ⁣18
2023⁢ preseason rank: 14
2022 midseason rank: ⁣ 9

Top 100 prospects: Charlie Condon, ‍OF/3B (No. 12); Chase Dollander, ⁤RHP (No. 23); Jordan Beck, OF (No. 78); Zac Veen, OF (No. 93); Yanquiel Fernandez, OF ⁣(No. 97); Adael Amador, 2B (No. 98)

Having top ‍10 picks in the last two Drafts has significantly ⁢benefited the Rockies, as these selections contribute to the six Top 100 players in their system. Dollander’s impressive first⁣ full season has also been a boon, and many regard Condon as the standout⁣ player ⁤of the 2024⁣ class. ⁢The⁤ Rockies have ⁢strengthened their system with solid Drafts, adding players like Cole Carrigg and Sean Sullivan alongside Dollander to effectively represent the Class of ’23. Furthermore, several players ⁤beyond those‌ classes have delivered strong performances in ⁤the 2024⁤ season. Continued development of international signees‌ like Fernandez and Amador may enable‍ the Rockies⁣ to improve their position even ⁣further next year.

13. New York Mets
2024 preseason rank: 13
2023 midseason⁣ rank: 11
2023 preseason rank: 11
2022 midseason rank: ⁣14

Top 100 prospects: ⁢ Brandon Sproat, RHP (No. 40); Jett⁣ Williams, SS/OF (No. 57); Drew Gilbert, OF (No. 82); Ryan Clifford, OF/1B (No.⁢ 83)

Sproat’s rise ‍from High-A⁤ to Triple-A,‍ fueled by a strong pitch mix, ‌has highlighted‌ a system that has faced numerous injuries to key players like Jett Williams, Drew Gilbert, and Ronny Mauricio.‍ Nolan McLean and Jonah Tong have distinguished themselves ⁤as promising arms, each possessing one of the best pitches in the system—slider and ‍fastball, respectively. Meanwhile, Jesus Baez’s progress was hindered somewhat by season-ending knee surgery in July. If Williams and Gilbert can stay healthy, alongside a full season from 2024 ⁣top⁤ pick Carson Benge, the Mets could find themselves in the⁣ top 10 next year.

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14. Cincinnati Reds
2024 preseason rank: 10
2023 midseason rank: ⁢ 5
2023 preseason rank: 5
2022⁣ midseason rank: 4

Top 100 prospects: ⁢ Chase Burns, ⁢RHP (No.⁢ 24); Rhett ‍Lowder, RHP (No. 35); Edwin Arroyo, ‍SS‍ (No. 72); Sal ⁣Stewart, 2B/3B (No. 85)

In a Top 100 list ⁢featuring the fewest pitchers ever, only 11 arms appear ⁢in the top 50, making it significant that two of them belong to the‌ Reds. Both were selected among the top 10 picks, with Lowder demonstrating considerable improvement in ⁣Double-A ‍during the latter part of his first full season, while Burns was the No. 2‍ overall pick in this year’s Draft. This is a predominantly young group of prospects, as five of the Reds’ new top ⁣10 are still teenagers. This could mean that‍ fans⁣ may need to be patient before seeing the talent impact the⁢ big ⁤league team, ⁤although ⁤players like ‌Rece Hinds and Blake Dunn have already made contributions at the plate, and ⁢a somewhat underestimated arm in Julian Aguiar is‌ close ⁢to making his entrance.

15. Miami Marlins
2024 preseason rank: 29
2023⁤ midseason rank: ⁣ 24
2023 preseason rank: 18
2022 midseason rank: 16

Top 100 prospects: Thomas White, LHP (No. 46); Max Meyer, RHP (No. 71); Noble Meyer, RHP⁣ (No. 76).

The‍ Marlins are tied for second place with 11 ranked prospects ‌obtained through trades—highlighted by⁢ second baseman Connor Norby, catcher Agustin Ramirez,‌ and corner infielder Deyvison‌ de ‌los Santos. First-year president of baseball operations⁣ Peter Bendix has successfully ⁣secured all these players in the last three months. This has contributed to Miami making the second-largest leap in⁤ our rankings, rising 14⁣ spots from No. 29 at the start of the season.‌ They have ⁣demonstrated greater ‌success ⁣in developing pitchers compared to hitters, which‌ bodes⁢ well‌ for their three Top 100 prospects, ‌who were acquired at a cost of $15.3 million and three high-quality Draft ⁢picks.

16. Philadelphia Phillies
2024 preseason ‌rank: 22
2023 midseason rank: 23
2023⁤ preseason rank: 21
2022⁣ midseason rank: 25

Top 100 prospects: Aidan Miller, SS⁤ (No. 29); Andrew Painter, RHP (No. 34); Justin Crawford, OF‌ (No. 58); Starlyn Caba, SS ‌(No. 91)

Positive signs are evident when top prospects exhibit progress. Each of the Phillies’ three Top 100 hitters has been promoted to‍ a higher level in 2024, ⁣with ‌Crawford particularly excelling ⁢in ⁤his new setting. The⁢ system‌ has made⁤ slight gains this time, even though Painter has not pitched in nearly two years. He could ‍potentially return in 2025 and reclaim his ‌status as the top pitching prospect in the league, which would undoubtedly enhance the Phillies’ ranking. While Mick ⁤Abel has faced challenges, other ‌young players such as catcher Eduardo T.

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Ait has⁣ performed ‍admirably, and the Phillies continued their proactive approach by targeting young hitters in ⁤this year’s Draft, bringing Dante‍ Nori and Griffin Burkholder into their top 10.

17. Milwaukee Brewers
2024 preseason rank: 3
2023 midseason rank: 3
2023 preseason ‍rank: ⁣ 15
2022 midseason⁢ rank: 19

Top⁣ 100 prospects: ⁣ Jeferson Quero, C (No. 43); Cooper Pratt, SS⁣ (No. 62); Jacob Misiorowski, RHP (No. ⁤66); Tyler Black, 1B (No. 68)

The Milwaukee Brewers have seen the graduation of Top 100 prospects Jackson Chourio and Joey Ortiz, while ⁢Quero and fifth-ranked Robert Gasser have missed significant time due to shoulder⁢ and elbow surgeries, respectively. This represents unfortunate news regarding injuries and contributes to⁤ the decline in their ranking. Conversely, Pratt has established himself as ⁤a legitimate‌ shortstop prospect in his inaugural full season, and players like Luke⁢ Adams, Mike Boeve, Josh Knoth, Jesus Made, and ‌Brett Wichrowski have strengthened⁣ their positions as prospects to monitor. The Brewers excel‍ in cultivating the⁤ depth of their farm system, which is ⁤why⁤ they remain within the top 20‍ despite “losing” ⁣a ⁤potential‍ superstar in Chourio.

18. New York Yankees
2024 preseason rank: 11
2023 midseason rank: 21
2023 preseason rank: 13
2022 midseason rank: 12

Top 100 prospect: Jasson‌ Domínguez, ⁣OF (No. 17)

Domínguez is making a commendable recovery post-Tommy John surgery; however, the Yankees have seen their three other preseason Top ‍100 prospects⁤ fall off the rankings. Outfielder Spencer Jones and shortstop Roderick Arias⁢ have⁣ encountered ⁢offensive difficulties, while right-handed pitcher⁣ Chase Hampton spent ⁢the first three months of the season sidelined due to‌ elbow discomfort. The New York Yankees⁢ are adept ⁢at maximizing the potential of their pitching prospects, utilizing⁣ their first⁤ seven draft picks on college arms ⁣in July, ⁢beginning with SEC ‌right-handers ⁤Ben Hess,⁤ Bryce Cunningham, ⁣and Thatcher Hurd.

19.⁢ St.⁣ Louis Cardinals
2024 preseason⁤ rank: 23
2023 midseason rank: 22
2023 preseason rank: 9
2022 midseason rank: 13

Top 100 prospects: JJ Wetherholt, SS/2B ⁣(No. 19); ⁢Tink ⁢Hence, RHP ‍(No. ‌51); Quinn Mathews,‍ LHP (No. 86)

Selecting Wetherholt—a genuine ⁣contender for the ‍first overall pick—at seventh overall this year may⁣ turn out to be⁣ one of the Draft’s biggest steals. This addition⁢ has provided the Cardinals’ system ‌with an⁢ essential impact ⁢bat, complementing the two pitchers, Hence and Mathews, although former ‍Top 100 prospects Thomas Saggese and Victor⁤ Scott II have regressed at the higher levels. Meanwhile, ‌Jimmy Crooks has progressed as a well-rounded catcher, and there⁤ have been promising advancements from lower-tier⁣ pitchers Chen-Wei Lin⁤ and Darlin Saladin.

“` as ⁢well. But there’s still work to do ⁣beyond adding Wetherholt to make this a deeper, more talented group.

20. Pittsburgh Pirates
2024 preseason rank: 9
2023 midseason ⁣rank: 2
2023 preseason rank: 8
2022 midseason rank: 7

Top 100 prospects: ⁢Bubba ‌Chandler, RHP (No. 41); Konnor Griffin, SS/OF (No. 55); Termarr Johnson, 2B/SS (No. 84); Braxton Ashcraft, RHP‍ (No. 96)

Losing the best pitching prospect anyone has‍ seen in years to graduation⁢ means your⁢ ranking is going to take a hit. Then ⁣you add in former fellow Top 100 arm Jared Jones ⁣becoming a big leaguer too, and that’s ‍a double whammy. The good news is ⁣that Chandler has taken up⁣ the challenge ⁢of being the best pitching prospect in the organization ‌and Ashcraft has taken a ‍big step forward along with non-Top ⁤100 arms like Thomas Harrington and Hunter Barco. The hitters in the system have not progressed with the ⁢same consistency, but ⁤it was exciting to see ‍the Pirates inject it with exciting young bats from this year’s Draft in Griffin and Wyatt Sanford, not to⁤ mention a high-upside arm⁤ like Levi ⁤Sterling.

21. Arizona Diamondbacks
2024 preseason rank: 16
2023⁢ midseason‍ rank: 12
2023 preseason rank: 3
2022 midseason rank: ⁣5

Top 100 prospects: Jordan⁣ Lawlar, SS (No. 9); Druw Jones, OF (No. 92)

Lawlar has missed much of 2024 with thumb and ‍hamstring injuries or else he would have been a candidate to graduate off this list. Fellow top-10 prospects Tommy Troy, Yu-Min Lin and Gino ‌Groover ‍have also been bit ‍by⁣ the ‍injury bug throughout the summer, halting their ⁤potential progresses. Arizona added a pair of solid-hitting outfielders in the Draft⁢ in Slade Caldwell ‍and‍ Ryan Waldschmidt, while ‍Yilber Diaz has‍ become a legit Major‍ League option on the mound.⁢ But this system⁣ remains a few ⁤levels below where it was⁤ when Corbin Carroll topped it,‍ a ⁣price to pay for being ⁣competitive at the top level ‌for⁣ two straight ⁣years.

22. Oakland Athletics
2024 preseason rank: 25
2023 midseason rank: 26
2023 preseason⁣ rank: 22
2022 midseason rank: 17

Top ⁣100⁣ prospects: Jacob Wilson, SS (No. 26); Nick‍ Kurtz,‍ 1B (No. ‍45)

Despite⁤ some injuries, Wilson went from first-rounder to big leaguer in‌ a year and‌ there’s a good chance ‌that Kurtz,⁢ this year’s No. 4 ‍overall pick,‍ could move pretty quickly‌ as well. The ⁣A’s had a solid ⁤2024 ⁤Draft overall — snaring a⁤ potential first-round pick‍ in Tommy⁣ White in Round 2 was ⁤a good get — ⁤with some intriguing⁣ talent acquired‍ throughout ⁢the rounds. Between the Draft⁣ and Trade Deadline deals, the A’s have breathed a little life into the system, with ⁤10 total players (six from⁣ the Draft, 4 from ⁣trades) added to the new Top 30.

23. San Francisco Giants
2024 preseason rank: 17
2023 midseason rank: 14
2023 preseason rank: 17
2022 midseason rank: ⁢18

Top 100 prospects: Bryce Eldridge, 1B (No. 54); Hayden Birdsong, RHP (No. 88); James⁢ Tibbs III, ⁣OF (No. 99)

With ⁤Kyle Harrison and Marco Luciano‍ graduating to the Majors after headlining the ⁢Giants system⁤ for⁤ so long, it now has a different look. San Francisco’s eight best prospects‍ all signed within the past two ⁤years: Eldridge, Birdsong, ‍Tibbs, left-handers Carson Whisenhunt ‌and Joe Whitman, outfielders Dakota Jordan and Rayner Arias,‌ shortstop Walker Martin. Eldridge (2023) and Tibbs ⁤(2024) will try to‌ reverse the trend of ⁤the Giants‌ getting little ⁤out of ⁤their first-round picks since a run of Tim Lincecum, Madison ⁣Bumgarner, Buster Posey and Zack Wheeler from 2006-09.

24. Toronto Blue Jays
2024⁣ preseason ⁣rank: 24
2023 midseason rank: 25
2023 preseason rank: ⁢ 25
2022 midseason rank: 20

Orelvis Martinez’s PED suspension and Ricky Tiedemann’s Tommy John surgery mean the Jays will be⁤ without two of ⁤their best preseason prospects in the second half, and injuries to pitchers Adam Macko, Kendry Rojas, Landen Maroudis and ⁣Brandon Barriera have further ⁣taken‌ the shine off in ’24.‌ On a positive note, Toronto was aggressive in bulking up the‍ system at the ⁣Trade Deadline and ⁣earned praise for picking up ⁢prospects Jake‌ Bloss ⁤and Will Wagner from the Astros, Jonatan Clase from the‍ Mariners and Charles⁤ McAdoo from the Pirates in particular. ⁤That has buoyed⁣ the system for now, ‍and maybe strong 2025s from first-rounders⁤ Trey Yesavage and Arjun Nimmala can provide further boosts next year.

25. Kansas City ⁤Royals
2024 preseason rank: 28
2023 midseason rank: 29
2023 preseason‍ rank: 29
2022 midseason rank: 21

Top 100 prospects: Jac Caglianone,‍ 1B/LHP (No. ⁢18); Blake Mitchell, C (No. 56)

Kansas City’s two most recent first-round picks ‍lead⁣ the⁣ way. Getting Caglianone at sixth overall ‌this ‌summer ⁢was a massive boon to the top of the rankings, given‍ his plus-plus power,⁢ and the ‍Royals seem at least⁣ open about ‌him ‌as a ⁤two-way option. Mitchell’s pop has⁢ played to expectations in ⁢his first⁤ full season, and he looks ⁣like the heir apparent to Salvador Perez. ‌The Royals lack other high-ceiling names, ‌but the depth has ‍improved with nice steps forward by pitchers Noah ⁤Cameron and‍ Steven Zobac ⁣and 18-year-old ⁣outfielder⁣ Asbel‌ Gonzalez, among others.

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26. Texas Rangers
2024 preseason rank: 7
2023 midseason rank: ⁢10
2023⁢ preseason rank: 7
2022 midseason rank: 6

Top ‍100 prospect: Sebastian Walcott, SS/3B (No. 38)

The⁢ reigning World Series champions have experienced the second-largest decline from our⁤ March‌ rankings, dropping 19 positions. The ‌main factor for⁤ this⁣ drop is that ‍Evan Carter and ⁢Wyatt‌ Langford no longer qualify⁤ as prospects, previously⁢ ranking fifth and sixth on ‍our preseason Top 100. On a more positive ‍note, the⁤ Rangers excel in the ‌international market, boasting 12 ranked prospects—second in the league—led by Walcott, ⁤along with undervalued right-handers Emiliano Teodo and Winston‌ Santos.⁣ Additionally, the team is making progress in developing their pitching talent, ‍with Kumar Rocker showcasing⁣ promise as⁢ he⁢ returns from Tommy ‌John surgery, 2023 fifth-round pick Alejandro Rosario impressing, and‍ Jack Leiter beginning to find his stride ‍at Triple-A.

27. Atlanta ⁣Braves
2024 preseason rank: ⁢ 26
2023 midseason ⁢rank: 27
2023 preseason rank: 30
2022 midseason rank: 27

At the beginning of the season,⁤ the ‍Braves boasted two pitchers in ⁣the Top 100, ‍AJ Smith-Shawver and Hurston Waldrep,⁢ but both have ⁣fallen‌ off the list, marking their second absence in the last ⁢four evaluations (2023 preseason). Fortunately, both Smith-Shawver and Waldrep are still young and have ample time to unlock their‌ potential. Moreover, they are joined ⁢by 2024 ⁢first-rounder Cam Caminiti, ‌who is now the top prospect in the organization, forming a‌ strong trio of young arms. If Owen Murphy and JR Ritchie can fully recover from their Tommy John surgeries ⁤(Ritchie is back; Murphy is expected‌ in 2025), the Braves will once again have a robust pipeline of pitching prospects. Despite ⁣not topping the‌ rankings, the Braves consistently find valuable⁢ trade⁤ pieces to enhance their competitive ⁣edge, as evidenced by their acquisitions of Jorge Soler and Luke ⁣Jackson this year.

28. San‌ Diego Padres
2024 preseason rank: 4
2023 midseason rank: ⁢9
2023 preseason rank: 23
2022‌ midseason rank: 28

Top 100⁢ prospects: Ethan‍ Salas, C (No. ‌20); Leodalis De Vries, SS (No. 47)

Regarding the Trade Deadline, the Padres have parted with 12 of ‌their top 21 prospects, including key players in the Dylan Cease and Luis Arraez trades earlier ‍this season, which⁢ has ‌contributed‌ to their significant‍ drop of 24 spots from ‌our preseason rankings. They have retained⁣ Salas and De Vries—who would have topped ⁢the list regardless of other ‍players’ statuses—and their draft⁢ class is notably deep, featuring⁤ two prep ⁣left-handers at the‍ top, Kash Mayfield and⁤ Boston ‌Bateman. There are other intriguing⁢ talents, such as 17-year-old right-hander Humberto Cruz, who has garnered significant attention after transitioning ⁣stateside, but the system displays the expected effects of⁢ being thinned out by trades made to support the Major League team’s pursuit‌ of contention.

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29. Los Angeles Angels
2024 preseason rank: 30
2023 midseason rank: 28
2023 preseason rank: 28
2022 midseason rank: 30

Top 100 prospects: Caden Dana, RHP (No. 75); Christian Moore, 2B (No. 81)

While‌ moving up a single spot ⁣may not⁣ seem significant, there are ⁤indicators of ⁢improvement. For the first time since the‌ preliminary ‍list of 2023,⁣ the Angels feature two Top ‍100 prospects, and given‌ his impressive start, Moore appears poised to be the next college draftee ⁣to swiftly reach Los Angeles. ‌The current Top⁤ 30 boasts 10 newcomers,‍ comprised of five from the Draft and five acquired through Deadline ⁣trades. Among these, George Klassen ⁤stands out as ‌the most compelling addition, possessing ⁣future ‌Top 100 potential.⁣ Notably,⁤ four of the new names are‌ pitchers ‍currently ranked in the ⁢top 10, ⁣including⁢ Ryan Johnson and Chris ⁣Cortez from ⁣the 2024 Draft class, along with⁤ Samuel Aldegheri, who joined from the Phillies along with ‌Klassen.

30. Houston Astros
2024 preseason rank: ⁣27
2023 midseason rank: 30
2023⁣ preseason ⁣rank: ‍ 27
2022 midseason ‌rank: 30

The Astros’ farm system,‍ often considered perplexing, has never⁤ ranked higher than 27th since the 2020 rankings began, ‌yet⁢ the team ⁣has made it⁢ to the last seven American League Championship Series and had at least one player garner a Rookie of the Year vote in each of the past⁤ five seasons. ⁢Contributions this year from Spencer Arrighetti, Jake Bloss, ‌Zach‍ Dezenzo, and‍ Joey Loperfido have been notable;⁣ however, ⁣Arrighetti and Loperfido have since ⁤graduated,⁢ and Bloss was traded to the Blue Jays in a deal involving Yusei Kikuchi. The⁤ top talents in their system include two likely 20/20 players (outfielder Jacob Melton and shortstop Brice Matthews), as well as the best catcher from the 2024 Draft, Walker Janek.

MLB Pipeline’s 2024 Farm System Rankings: A Comprehensive Look at the Top Minor League⁤ Prospects and ⁢Their Impact ⁤on Major League ‍Success

The MLB Pipeline’s 2024 Farm System Rankings are here, showcasing the most promising talent in minor league baseball. These rankings offer a detailed analysis of the top prospects across‌ various organizations, revealing how these young ⁤athletes can shape the future of ⁤Major League Baseball (MLB). In this article, we’ll‍ explore the top farm ⁣systems, highlight⁢ key prospects, and discuss⁤ their potential impact on their respective ‍major ⁤league teams.

The Importance of Farm System Rankings

Farm system ⁤rankings are crucial for understanding how well a team is⁣ positioned for future success. A strong farm system can provide ‍major league⁣ clubs with:

Talent Pipeline: Continuous ‍influx of young talent to replace ⁣aging players ⁤or those lost to free agency.
Trade Assets: Prospects can be traded to ‌acquire⁢ established ⁢stars, helping ‍teams to compete in the present.
Cost Control: Young players typically⁢ have lower salaries, allowing teams to allocate funds to other areas.

Top ‌Farm Systems‌ of 2024

According to the MLB Pipeline, here are‍ the ⁣top five farm systems for 2024:

Rank	Team	Key Prospects	Impact Potential
1	Tampa Bay Rays	Randy ⁣Arozarena, Taj Bradley, Curtis Mead	Strong⁣ hitters and pitchers ready for promotion
2	Los Angeles⁣ Dodgers	Gavin ‍Lux, Diego Cartaya, Bobby Miller	Depth and versatility; future ⁤stars ⁢in various positions
3	Miami Marlins	Max Meyer, Eury Pérez, Ian Lewis	High-impact pitchers with MLB-ready skills
4	Atlanta Braves	Braden Shewmake, Jared Shuster, Michael Harris⁤ II	Balanced‌ mix of pitching and hitting prospects
5	Seattle Mariners	Julio Rodríguez, Emerson⁤ Hancock, Harry Ford	Dynamic players with‍ high ‍ceilings

Key Prospects to⁣ Watch

Each of these organizations has its ‌standout prospects who are poised to ‍make a significant impact ⁢in the majors.

Tampa Bay Rays

The Rays have consistently developed top talent, and in 2024, they continue⁢ to impress with:

Randy Arozarena: An⁢ electric ⁤player known for his power and speed,⁣ Arozarena could be a game-changer in the outfield.
Taj Bradley: ⁤ A rising star in pitching, Bradley exhibits remarkable command and the ⁢ability to dominate in pressure situations.
Curtis Mead: A versatile infielder with a ⁢solid bat, Mead ⁤is⁤ expected to‍ be called up soon.

Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers are known for their ‌ability to nurture talent, and their top ‌prospects include:

Gavin Lux: A multi-talented ‍infielder who can hit for average ‍and power while providing solid defense.
Diego Cartaya: A catching prospect with exceptional ⁢offensive capabilities,⁢ he is a future star behind the plate.
Bobby⁢ Miller: ‌A hard-throwing right-hander whose fastball-slider⁢ combo has drawn comparisons to elite pitchers.

Miami Marlins

The⁢ Marlins have⁤ focused on pitching, and⁤ their prospects include:

Max Meyer: A former third overall⁤ pick, Meyer has the arsenal to ⁤be a frontline starter.
Eury Pérez: A young pitcher with a towering presence on the mound, recognized for his strikeout potential.
Ian Lewis: An infielder with a promising bat, Lewis could soon provide assistance at‍ the major league level.

Atlanta Braves

The Braves have solidified their future with these⁤ key prospects:

Braden Shewmake: An infielder with ‌a strong defensive skill set‌ and the ability to hit‍ in clutch ‌situations.
Jared Shuster: A promising lefty who can be a mid-rotation starter.
Michael Harris II: A highly-rated outfield prospect with both⁢ speed⁤ and ⁤power.

Seattle Mariners

The Mariners are building a strong core with talents like:

Julio ‌Rodríguez: ‍A dynamic outfielder, Rodríguez is expected‍ to be a ⁣franchise player.
Emerson Hancock: Projected as a potential ace, Hancock has shown significant upside on the mound.
Harry Ford: A young catcher with a promising‍ future, Ford is⁤ a name to watch in the coming years.

Benefits of a Strong Farm System

A well-ranked farm system brings numerous benefits to an MLB team:

Competitive Advantage: Teams with strong ⁢farm systems can build competitive rosters⁤ over time.
Increased Fan ‍Engagement: Developing homegrown ⁢talent fosters a connection with the fan base.
Financial Flexibility: Relying on young,‍ inexpensive talent allows teams to spend on free agents strategically.

Case‍ Studies: Successful Farm Systems

Let’s take a look at some recent⁤ success stories from teams that have excelled due to robust farm systems:

Houston Astros

The Astros’ farm system produced stars like Alex ⁣Bregman and Carlos⁢ Correa, contributing to their 2017 ⁤World Series title. Their commitment ⁤to⁣ player development has been evident in their sustained success.

San Diego Padres

The ‌Padres have transformed their franchise through a series of successful drafts and trades, ⁢bringing in players like Fernando Tatis Jr. and MacKenzie Gore. Their investment in scouting and player ⁢development ⁢has paid dividends, placing them in playoff contention.

First-Hand Experience: Scouts’ Insights

Scouts play a vital role in identifying and developing talent.‍ Here are some insights from scouts evaluating prospects:

Tools⁣ over Stats: Scouts often focus on‌ a player’s physical tools and potential rather than just their stats.
Work Ethic ‍Matters: A player’s work ethic‍ and attitude during practice can be just ‍as important as their on-field ‍performance.
Versatility is Key: Players who can perform‌ multiple roles increase their ⁢value to‌ a team.

Practical Tips for Teams Looking ⁢to Improve Their Farm System

Here are several⁣ strategies teams can⁢ implement to⁢ enhance their farm systems:

Invest in ⁤Scouting: Allocate resources towards scouting departments to identify hidden ⁣gems.
Emphasize Player Development: Create robust training programs that⁣ focus on skill ‍enhancement ‍and mental conditioning.
Maintain Open Communication: Foster a culture of communication ⁢between ⁤major and minor league coaching staff.

Conclusion

The MLB Pipeline’s 2024 Farm⁢ System Rankings illuminate the potential of the next generation of baseball stars. By understanding the talent within these‍ systems, teams can strategize effectively for both immediate success and long-term sustainability in the⁢ competitive ‍landscape of ⁣Major League Baseball.