Prospect Highlights as Baseball Season Progresses
As the baseball season’s second month comes to a close, the evaluation of prospects is expanding. The MLB Pipeline team is taking this chance to spotlight standout players who might not be getting the attention they deserve.
Podcast Insights
In the most recent MLB Pipeline Podcast, Jim Callis and Sam Dykstra, alongside host Jason Ratliff, continued their discussion regarding the most compelling prospects in the Minors by division. After covering the AL East, AL Central, and AL West, they placed their focus this week on the NL East.
Intriguing Prospects from the NL East
JR Ritchie: A supplemental first-round pick in 2022, Ritchie faced injury setbacks but is now healthy and excelling, boasting a 1.73 ERA over nine appearances and moving up to Double-A.
Joe Mack: Selected 31st overall in the 2021 draft, Mack struggled in his early professional years but had a breakout 2024 season. He hit 24 homers at Double-A and is performing well in Triple-A after a promotion this year.
Nolan McLean: After initially being a two-way player, McLean transitioned to pitching and has eclipsed expectations, holding a 1.62 ERA in 44.3 innings this season, including impressive performances in Triple-A.
Luke Dickerson: As the second-round pick in 2024, Dickerson signed for a record bonus and is thriving in his first pro season, achieving an .862 OPS primarily at Single-A.
Wilmer Figueroa: The 20-year-old infielder has made significant strides, hitting .318 with a .953 OPS for Clearwater, leading the Florida State League in home runs after a successful rookie season.
Mason Sykora: After a surgery delayed his season, Sykora has returned with a strong showing, allowing just one run in 15 innings since early May, showcasing outstanding pitching performance at High-A Wilmington.
