In these regions, the wheel of baseball keeps turning. While the Minor League season has wrapped up and the Majors are deep into the postseason, the Arizona Fall League is set to kick off with its Opening Day on Monday.
This update, much like the ones in May and July, stands apart from the preseason and in-season rankings. Rather than entirely revote for the Top 100, we’ve established a new Top 15 and adjusted only those prospects who experienced the most significant changes, either gaining or losing 10 spots or more. Additionally, we’ve removed five players from the Top 100 and introduced five new entries to round out the list.
Here’s how the rankings align as we head into the AFL and the beginning of the offseason:
1. Dylan Crews, OF, Nationals
2. Walker Jenkins, OF, Twins
3. Roman Anthony, OF, Red Sox
4. Carson Williams, SS, Rays
5. Jackson Jobe, RHP, Tigers
6. Max Clark, OF, Tigers
7. Marcelo Mayer, SS, Red Sox
8. Coby Mayo, 3B/1B, Orioles
9. Jordan Lawlar, SS, D-backs
10. Kristian Campbell, 2B/OF/SS, Red Sox
11. Charlie Condon, OF/3B, Rockies
12. Travis Bazzana, 2B, Guardians
13. Samuel Basallo, C/1B, Orioles
14. Jasson Domínguez, OF, Yankees
15. Bubba Chandler, RHP, Pirates
Complete Top 100 »
Maintaining the top position is Crews, widely regarded as the premier five-tool player in the game, notwithstanding a modest introduction to the Majors. Given recent performances by top prospects during their initial exposure to the big leagues, this is not as significant a drawback as it once was. The 2023 No. 2 overall pick showcases exceptional speed, a strong arm, and solid overall defensive skills in the outfield, all of which have been validated at the highest level of the game. Throughout his first complete season across Double-A and Triple-A, culminating in his MLB debut on Aug. 26, Crews demonstrated marked improvements in whiff and chase rates. These developments are likely to continue as he gains more experience in the big leagues, which should enhance his power. If Washington secures a substantial corner-outfield bat this offseason, Crews could transition back to center field, presenting a more balanced option than Jacob Young.
Jenkins, another 2023 draft pick, faced early challenges due to a hamstring issue but concluded the year with a greater number of walks (56) than strikeouts (47) while advancing through three levels at just 19 years of age. He possesses both power“`html
The emergence of Campbell has been thoroughly chronicled. He earned the title of Hitting Prospect of the Year after achieving a remarkable slash line of .330/.439/.558, along with 20 home runs and 24 stolen bases over 115 games spanning High-A, Double-A, and Triple-A. His adjustment to improve his launch angle has maximized his power potential. While his power numbers at Triple-A were slightly lower than Anthony’s, his ability to make contact within the strike zone and reduce his chase rate was equally impressive. His speed and athleticism have allowed him to excel defensively in the middle infield, surprising even some officials from the Red Sox, who believe he may be poised to take over the starting second-base position in Boston by next spring.
With these two players on the rise, Boston is proud to possess three prospects ranked in the Top 10 overall. No other organization is represented with three prospects in the Top 30.
Chandler also makes his debut in the Top 15 following an impressive performance at Triple-A Indianapolis, where he posted a stellar 1.83 ERA, a 1.04 WHIP, and 54 strikeouts in 39 1/3 innings. His fastball, clocked between 95-98 mph, along with his mid-80s slider, upper-80s changeup, and low-80s curveball all achieved whiff rates exceeding 30 percent during this period. This has strengthened the belief that Pittsburgh could be on track to develop another powerful arm by 2025.
+64 Kristian Campbell, 2B/OF/SS, Red Sox (74 to 10)
+36 Kumar Rocker, RHP, Rangers (94 to 58)
+26 Cam Smith, 3B, Cubs (99 to 73)
+23 Bubba Chandler, RHP, Pirates (38 to 15)
+16 Leodalis De Vries, SS, Padres (44 to 28)
+15 Bryce Eldridge, 1B, Giants (50 to 35)
+14 Angel Genao, INF, Guardians (86 to 72)
+14 Alejandro Rosario, RHP, Rangers (100 to 86)
+12 Sebastian Walcott, SS/3B, Rangers (35 to 23)
+12 Travis Sykora, RHP, Nationals (91 to 79)
Following Campbell’s notable ascent, Rocker stands as the only other player to experience a jump of 30 or more spots. The former ace from Vanderbilt made his return from Tommy John surgery in early July and quickly progressed through the Minor Leagues, leading to his Major League debut on September 12. His slider, which ranges from 83 to 85 mph, is regarded as one of the premier offerings in the sport, generating whiffs on 50 percent of MLB swings due to its effective“`html
That makes it six Boston prospects now in the Top 100. Arias dominated the Rookie-level Florida Complex League, finishing with a .355/.471/.584 batting line, six home runs, and 30 stolen bases in 51 games this summer. He also held his own as an 18-year-old middle infielder in Single-A as the summer concluded. Initially, his strongest attributes were on the defensive side, but he has consistently demonstrated solid contact skills and increased his power enough to make it onto the list.
Ramirez, acquired from the Yankees in the Jazz Chisholm trade, ranks among the top offensive catchers in the Minor Leagues. With at least plus power and disciplined swing decisions, he completed his age-22 season with 25 home runs across Double-A and Triple-A. He projects to hit over 30 home runs, a performance that would be valuable anywhere should he need to transition out from behind the plate.
Although Smith-Shawver experienced a rocky postseason debut during the Wild Card round, he earned that chance at just 21 years of age thanks to his mid-90s fastball, complemented by a slider and changeup that both produced impressive whiff rates at Triple-A. If he can enhance his command to limit home runs, he stands to be a significant rotation candidate for Atlanta next spring.
Benge, the 19th overall pick this year, demonstrated above-average capabilities in both contact hitting and power while at Oklahoma State. Scouts believe he has even greater potential for growth now that he can concentrate solely on hitting after previously playing both ways in school. Rojas may not have performed as expected with his .245/.310/.336 line at High-A South Bend, as he maintains a low strikeout rate, launches fly balls to the pull side, exhibits emerging power, and has sufficient arm strength for the left side of the infield.
-26 Ralphy Velazquez, 1B, Guardians (72 to 98)
-19 Brady House, 3B, Nationals (65 to 84)
-18 Xavier Isaac, 1B, Rays (18 to 36)
-18 Jacob Misiorowski, RHP, Brewers (62 to 80)
-14 Cade Horton, RHP, Cubs (28 to 42)
-13 Brayden Taylor, 3B/SS/2B, Rays (47 to 60)
-12 Colson Montgomery, SS, White Sox (25 to 37)
-10 Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF, Twins (19 to 29)
-10 Ryan Clifford, OF/1B, Mets (77 to 87)
Drafted as a catcher 23rd overall last year, Velazquez has shifted to first base, with some appearances in left field, which raises his offensive expectations. He possesses good power and patience, but the left-handed hitter struggled during a late-season stint in High-A, casting doubt on his ability to meet the demands of hitting at this level.
A batter with considerable power can tolerate strikeouts due to his ability to hit the ball with great force; however, entering Joey Gallo territory adversely affects his overall prospect value. A trip to the Fall League in the upcoming weeks could provide him with an opportunity to rebound.
Misiorowski transitioned to the bullpen at Triple-A Nashville, where his fastball, reaching the upper 90s, along with a mid-80s curve and low-90s slider, should become even more effective tools. He possesses significant potential as a closer, yet it is challenging to rank him higher than prospects with more favorable chances of becoming starters.
River Ryan, RHP, Dodgers
Tyler Black, 1B, Brewers
Tyler Locklear, 1B, Mariners
Yanquiel Fernandez, OF, Rockies
Adael Amador, 2B, Rockies
In a twist of unfortunate timing, we finalized our midseason Top 100 just before Ryan was sidelined with tightness in his right forearm. He underwent Tommy John surgery in late August and is unlikely to return to a Major League mound until 2026, at which point he will be 27 years old.
Black and Locklear are first basemen who present distinctly different profiles. Black has the potential to be an above-average hitter with strong strike-zone discipline, complemented by his plus speed, which poses a constant threat on the basepaths. However, his exit velocities are below average, and in the Minors, he has lacked defensive value due to frequent position changes. Locklear displays notable raw power but only recorded a .430 slugging percentage and a 103 wRC+ in 70 games at Triple-A.
Staying at that level, Fernandez is designed to be a classic right fielder, boasting significant power and arm strength. Nevertheless, his issues with chasing pitches have diminished that power, resulting in a slugging percentage of just .313 over 33 Triple-A games, even playing in the hitter-friendly environment of Albuquerque. Meanwhile, Amador struggled, hitting just .230 with a .376 slugging percentage in 100 games at Double-A Hartford— a disappointing showing for a middle infielder who was touted for having a potential plus hit tool at the beginning of 2024.
Rising Stars: Top 15 MLB Prospects to Watch as the Arizona Fall League Kicks Off
Overview of the Arizona Fall League
The Arizona Fall League (AFL) is an annual showcase designed for MLB teams to evaluate their top prospects in a competitive environment. This league typically attracts the brightest young talents from across Major League Baseball, providing fans with an opportunity to glimpse the future stars of the sport. With the AFL kicking off, here are the top 15 MLB prospects to keep an eye on this season.
Top 15 MLB Prospects to Watch
| Rank | Player Name | Position | Team | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jackson Holliday | SS | Baltimore Orioles | Exceptional hitting ability, quick foot speed |
| 2 | Paul Skenes | SP | Pittsburgh Pirates | Power fastball, dominant strikeout potential |
| 3 | Julio Rodríguez | OF | Seattle Mariners | All-around offensive skills, strong arm |
| 4 | Marcelo Mayer | SS | Boston Red Sox | Great plate discipline, defensive prowess |
| 5 | Andrew Painter | SP | Philadelphia Phillies | Elite off-speed pitches, control |
| 6 | Gavin Williams | SP | Cleveland Guardians | High strikeout rates, solid mechanics |
| 7 | Cameron Colley | SP | Texas Rangers | Durable frame, power pitching repertoire |
| 8 | Jordan Walker | 3B | St. Louis Cardinals | Power hitting, strong base running |
| 9 | Robbie Snelling | SP | San Diego Padres | Good command, multiple pitch options |
| 10 | Alfredo Duno | OF | Miami Marlins | Speed, defensive versatility |
| 11 | Yainer Diaz | C | Houston Astros | Strong bat, solid defensive skills |
| 12 | Spencer Torkelson | 1B | Detroit Tigers | Power potential, great plate awareness |
| 13 | Brady House | 3B | Washington Nationals | Strong arm, hitter’s mentality |
| 14 | Chase Silseth | SP | Los Angeles Angels | Strong fastball, competitive nature |
| 15 | Logan O’Hoppe | C | Los Angeles Angels | Defensive skills, offensive upside |
Why Watch These Prospects?
These top MLB prospects are not only showcasing their skills in the AFL but are also on the cusp of making significant contributions to their respective MLB teams. Here are a few reasons why these players are worth watching:
- Development Phase: The AFL serves as a platform for players to refine their skills against competitive opponents.
- Scouting Opportunities: Scouts and teams use the AFL to assess talent and determine future roster moves.
- Future Stars: Many previous AFL participants have gone on to have successful MLB careers, making this league a key indicator of future talent.
Benefits of Following the Arizona Fall League
For fans, following the AFL can provide several benefits:
- Early Insights: Gaining knowledge about potential future stars can enhance your understanding of the game.
- Engagement: Watching the development of these players fosters a deeper connection with your favorite MLB teams.
- Fantasy Baseball Prep: For fantasy baseball players, tracking prospects can be crucial when considering future draft picks.
Case Studies: Recent Success Stories from the AFL
The Arizona Fall League has a rich history of highlighting future MLB stars. Here are a few notable examples:
- Ronald Acuña Jr.: After his standout performance in the AFL, Acuña quickly made his mark in the MLB, becoming a perennial All-Star.
- Fernando Tatis Jr.: Tatis showcased his elite skills at the AFL, leading to his rapid ascent through the minor leagues.
- Juan Soto: Soto’s time in the AFL was instrumental in his development, culminating in a remarkable MLB debut.
Tips for Enjoying the Arizona Fall League
To make the most of your AFL experience, consider these tips:
- Attend Games: If you’re in Arizona, try to catch live games to see prospects in action.
- Follow Online: Stay updated through social media and MLB platforms for live stats and highlights.
- Engage with Community: Join forums and discussions to share insights and predictions with other fans.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from AFL Attendees
Fans and scouts alike have shared their experiences from attending AFL games. Here are some common themes:
- Intimate Setting: The smaller venues allow fans to get closer to the action and interact with players.
- Passionate Players: Many prospects are eager to prove themselves, resulting in high-energy performances.
- Networking Opportunities: The AFL attracts various baseball professionals, providing a unique environment for budding analysts and scouts.
