Baseball America’s much-anticipated preseason Top 100 prospect list, unveiled on Wednesday, shines a spotlight on the Atlanta Braves, featuring two standout pitching prospects, AJ Smith-Shawver and Hurston Waldrep.
Securing positions within the Top 50, Smith-Shawver claims the 42nd spot, while Waldrep is ranked at an impressive 49th. Smith-Shawver’s ascent to the majors at the age of 20 in 2023, after swiftly navigating four minor league levels, marked a notable accomplishment. Although his overall performance at the major league level may not have been stellar, he showcased glimpses of the potential that solidify his standing as a top prospect. According to Baseball America, his fastball and adeptness with multiple breaking balls hint at a mid-rotation upside. However, refining his command remains an area for improvement. While Smith-Shawver is set to join the Braves in spring camp, the likelihood is that he will commence the season at Triple-A.
On the other hand, Waldrep, selected as the Braves’ first-round pick in 2023 from Florida, left a lasting impression by swiftly progressing through four levels, culminating in Triple-A by the season’s end. His combined performance featured an impressive 1.53 ERA, accompanied by 41 strikeouts in 29 1⁄3 innings, spanning from Low A to Triple-A. As Waldrep gears up for spring camp with the Braves, there is a tangible possibility that he could make his major league debut during the 2024 season, showcasing the promise that caught the attention of baseball enthusiasts.
In summary, the Baseball America Top 100 prospect list positions Smith-Shawver and Waldrep as integral components of the Atlanta Braves’ future. Smith-Shawver’s rapid ascent and Waldrep’s impressive performance across multiple levels highlight the Braves’ commitment to nurturing and showcasing exceptional talent. As both pitchers gear up for spring training, the spotlight is on their development and potential contributions to the Braves’ major league roster in the upcoming season.
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