With many of the minor league regular seasons coming to a close soon, it’s a good time to look at top prospects who remain in the minors (or were just called up after MLB rosters expanded on Monday) so we can get excited for the potential new wave of MLB talent next season.

My top 50 prospect list often differs from other publications’ rankings. I’ve always just called it the way I see it. I don’t go by industry consensus, nor do I compare my list with those of other outlets. This is simply my evaluation based on what I’ve seen of the prospects in person and/or via video.

Analyzing players and debating about them remain fun parts of our game, whether you’re in a major-league boardroom, like I was for more than a quarter century, or in your living room at home. Disagreements are normal, among both professional evaluators and fans, so I welcome your feedback in the comments section.

Below is my list of who I consider to be the top 50 prospects in baseball at this moment.

(Note: Players promoted to the major leagues before Sept. 1 were not eligible for this list.)

Statistics are updated through Sept. 1 unless otherwise noted. Players’ ages are as of Sept. 3. Players’ current level is listed after their names. 

Jim Bowden’s scouting grades are based on the 20-80 scouting scale, in which 20-30 is well below average, 40 is below average, 50 is average, 60 is above average, equivalent to All-Star, Gold Glover and Silver Slugger, and 70-80 is well above average, like an MVP or Hall of Famer. PWR denotes Power; FLD: Fielding; FB: Fastball; CT: Cutter; CB: Curveball; CH: Changeup; SLI: Slider; SF: Split Finger; CTL: Control; CMND: Command.

1. Konnor Griffin, SS/OF, Pittsburgh Pirates (Double A)

Age: 19
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-4 Weight: 227
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 70 ARM: 65 FLD: 60

Griffin has separated himself as the clear No. 1 prospect in baseball due to a hit tool that took a big leap forward this year, thanks to adjustments that included shortening his swing. He’s now a complete five-tool player with an impressive 6-foot-4 build. He delivers consistent, loud sweet-spot contact and elite bat speed. He has a tantalizing power/speed combination that makes it easy to project him as a future 30 home run/50 stolen base impact player when he’s fully developed. Defensively, he currently can handle shortstop and has center field as a viable fallback if he gets too big for the shortstop position.

2. JJ Wetherholt, 2B/SS, St. Louis Cardinals (Triple A)

Age: 22
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 5-10 Weight: 191
Scouting Grades: HIT: 70 PWR: 55 RUN: 55 ARM: 50 FLD: 55

Wetherholt can flat-out rake. He is major-league ready now and should have a real opportunity to make the Cardinals’ big-league roster out of spring training. He can play shortstop, but due to the presence of Masyn Winn, Wetherholt’s best position will be second base for St. Louis, where he should develop into an All-Star caliber player. He has the tools to reach base at a 40 percent clip thanks to his ability to spray the ball around the field and draw his share of walks. Combine that with plus power and speed and he should develop into at least a 20 home run/20 stolen base type of offensive talent with the athleticism and soft hands to become an above-average second baseman. He has all the necessary intangibles, as well.

3. Kevin McGonigle, SS, Detroit Tigers (Double A)

Age: 21
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 5-10 Weight: 190
Scouting Grades: HIT: 75 PWR: 55 RUN: 55 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

McGonigle has arguably the best hit tool among all the top prospects on this list. He has elite bat-to-ball skills, rarely striking out, and has the ability to hit both high velocity and nasty breaking balls. He has posted tremendous exit velocity numbers and should end up with well-above-average power. He also has above-average speed. Although he has the ability to stay at shortstop, he could also be an option for the Tigers at second or third base, wherever their biggest need is at the time of his debut. He’ll be fast to the big leagues and has a strong chance of winning a batting title someday.

4. Max Clark, CF, Detroit Tigers (Double A)

Age: 20
Bat: L Throws: L
Height: 6-0 Weight: 205
Scouting Grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 50 RUN: 70 ARM: 60 FLD: 65

Clark leads all prospects in both swag and style and will be a fan favorite when he arrives in Motown thanks to his positive and energetic personality. Clark is a true center fielder with double-plus range in all directions and the arm strength to match. He is a top-of-the-order table-setter: He knows how to get on base, can steal a bag, and can score from first on a double with his aggressive approach on the bases. He has average power now, but I believe he will eventually have plus power. To think the Tigers will soon have McGonigle and Clark creating traffic for Riley Greene, Spencer Torkelson and Kerry Carpenter. Tigers fans should be excited.

5. Leo De Vries, SS, Athletics (Double A)

Age: 18
Bats: B Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 184
Scouting Grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 50 RUN: 55 ARM: 55 FLD: 55

The Athletics and Padres made the most shocking deal of this year’s trade deadline when the Padres traded their top prospect, De Vries, to the A’s for closer Mason Miller, he of the 103 mph fastball. However, the deal made sense for both teams, as the Padres have a chance to win a World Series this year while the A’s are building for three years from now when they move to Las Vegas. De Vries is just 18 years old, which is hard to believe when you watch the way he works the count and draws his walks. He’s a switch hitter who hit for more power this season from the left side than the right. However, he has the bat speed and exit velocity from both sides of the plate for that to even out in time (and, in fact, he hit for more power from the right side last season). It’s fun to watch him play shortstop due to his range to both sides and soft hands with plus arm strength.

Travis Bazzana, last year’s No. 1 pick, has spent most of this season in Double A and Triple A. (George Kubas / Diamond Images via Getty Images)6. Travis Bazzana, 2B, Cleveland Guardians (Triple A)

Age: 23
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-0 Weight: 200
Scouting Grades: HIT: 70 PWR: 55 RUN: 60 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

Bazzana, the No. 1 pick in last year’s draft, has gotten off to a relatively slow start in his professional career based on the pre-draft expectations. However, he is a professional hitter who works the count, makes contact and uses the whole field. He hit 28 home runs his junior year at Oregon State and although he has hit only five this year in 271 at-bats, the power is in there. He has strong baseball instincts and is a smart base runner, with 16 stolen bases in 18 attempts to start his minor-league career. He’s the future second baseman for the Guardians, and I’d estimate he will reach the majors in June 2026.

7. Colt Emerson, SS/3B, Seattle Mariners (Double A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-0 Weight: 198
Scouting Grades: HIT: 65 PWR: 50 RUN: 50 ARM: 55 FLD: 50

Every trade discussion the Mariners had at the deadline would start with opposing GMs asking for Emerson, who was immediately taken off the table — and for good reason. He’s clearly the best hitting prospect in the Mariners system thanks to a smooth, straight-to-the-ball swing that results in consistent hard contact. He has the ability to hit the ball all over the field and will draw his share of walks, too. He has average power now, but that should turn into plus power when fully developed. He’s good enough defensively to stay at shortstop but will be a viable option at third and second base for Seattle.

8. Walker Jenkins, OF, Minnesota Twins (Triple A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-3 Weight: 212
Scouting Grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 55 RUN: 55 ARM: 60 FLD: 55

Jenkins is an outstanding hitter with plus power. He is a good defender in center field, although his best position is probably going to be right field. He shows off much more power in BP than in games but that will catch up in time. Jenkins has proven he can hit high velocity and he stays back on breaking balls extremely well. He’s an intelligent base runner who can steal a base. I see Jenkins as a future All-Star-caliber outfielder.

9. Bryce Eldridge, 1B, San Francisco Giants (Triple A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-7 Weight: 241
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 75 RUN: 40 ARM: 60 FLD: 45

The Giants refused to part with Eldridge in the Rafael Devers trade, and I don’t blame them. Now that they have both Devers and Eldridge, their plan is for the pair to provide the power in the middle of their lineup for the next several years. Eldridge has a short, quick left-handed swing that shows off his ridiculous strength and leverage. He needs to continue to focus on not swinging at pitches out of the strike zone. If he can tighten up his plate discipline, he profiles to be a high batting average and on-base percentage hitter with 30 home run-type power. Look for him to bash many baseballs into McCovey Cove for years to come.

10. Ethan Holliday, SS, Colorado Rockies (Low A)

Age: 18
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-4 Weight: 212
Scouting Grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 70 RUN: 50 ARM: 55 FLD: 50

The Rockies were fortunate that Holliday fell to them at No. 4 in this year’s draft, as many analysts — including myself — thought he had the most potential of any player in this class. Holliday has tremendous leadership qualities and should in time develop into the face of the Rockies franchise. He’s power-over-hit right now and eventually could end up at third base. Regardless of his spot on the left side of the infield, he has the potential to become a middle-of-the-order impact bat.

11. Eli Willits, SS, Washington Nationals (Low A)

Age: 17
Bats: B Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 188
Scouting Grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 45 RUN: 65 ARM: 55 FLD: 55

The Nationals took Willits over Holliday with the No. 1 pick this July, mainly because Willits had the best hit tool of anyone in the draft. Combine that with his blazing speed and it’s easy to envision the switch-hitting Willits developing into a player somewhere between Francisco Lindor and Trea Turner. He should also be able to stay at shortstop long-term. Willits was the youngest player ever taken with the No. 1 pick in MLB draft history.

12. Charlie Condon, OF, Colorado Rockies (Double A)

Age: 22
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-6 Weight: 220
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 65 RUN: 40 ARM: 55 FLD: 50

Condon was the third player taken in the 2024 draft after he won the Golden Spikes Award and led all NCAA Division 1 hitters in average, homers and on-base percentage. He struggled in his professional debut last year while dealing with a hand injury. However, he has really picked it up this year, logging an .844 OPS and 30 extra-base hits over 322 at-bats (he missed time early in the season with a left wrist fracture). The Rockies have played him at first, third and left field so far, with first base most likely his long-term landing spot. He’s a future 30-40 home run power bat when fully developed.

13. Thomas White, LHP, Miami Marlins (Triple A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-5 Weight: 240
Scouting Grades: FB: 60 SLI: 65 CH: 50 CMND: 40 CTL: 45

White is the best left-handed pitching prospect in baseball. He has a mid-90s fastball with both carry and run to it. His slider is a wipeout pitch with filthy horizontal movement. His changeup is solid. It flashes above average at times and is an important part of his arsenal, especially against right-handed hitters. He’ll be quick to the big leagues once his command and control arrive and match his top-of-the-rotation stuff. After starting the season at High A and spending time at Double A, White was promoted to Triple A on Tuesday.

14. Spencer Jones, OF, New York Yankees (Triple A)

Age: 24
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-7 Weight: 240
Scouting Grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 65 RUN: 55 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

Jones has had a breakout year thanks to mechanical changes he made with his hand position, load and leg kick. The results have been stunning, as he’s belted 32 home runs and slugged .584. He has the ability to play all three outfield positions and has a special speed/power combination for his frame. Strikeouts will always be part of his game, but so will the long ball.

15. Sebastian Walcott, SS/3B, Texas Rangers (Double A)

Age: 19
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-4 Weight: 190
Scouting Grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 65 RUN: 55 ARM: 70 FLD: 50

I love Walcott’s bat speed and the exit velocities he posts, especially to the pull side, where his raw power will give you goosebumps. He has special balance and body control but at times plays too aggressively on both sides of the ball. He made 30 errors last year and has cut that down to 23 so far this year playing both shortstop and third base. In my opinion, he’ll end up at third base when he’s major-league ready. He has an exciting ceiling and is a future All-Star caliber player.

Kade Anderson helped lead LSU to a national title. (Steven Branscombe / Imagn Images)16. Kade Anderson, LHP, Seattle Mariners (Rookie)

Age: 21
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-2 Weight: 180
Scouting Grades: FB: 60 CB: 55 SLI: 55 CH: 65 CMND: 50 CTL: 55

Anderson was the third player taken in this year’s draft after he went 12-1 for LSU with a 3.18 ERA over 19 starts with 180 strikeouts and 35 walks over 119 innings. His repertoire is not built around a single dominating pitch; rather his best attribute is his versatile and well-rounded arsenal. His curveball is his best secondary pitch and is thrown in the low 80s with bite and elite depth thanks to his 3,000-plus spin rate. Anderson’s fastball sits in the mid-90s with special downhill plane and cut. He challenges hitters at the top of the zone. His slider arrives in the mid-80s with lateral sweep and sometimes with cutting action. His changeup is deceptive with tumble and fastball-like arm speed. Because of his college workload, the Mariners decided to shut him down until spring training, which makes sense following the Tigers’ run to a College World Series title this summer. He profiles as a top-of-the-rotation starter and should be fast to the major leagues.

17. Jesús Made, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (High A)

Age: 18
Bats: B Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 188
Scouting Grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 60 RUN: 55 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

Made has some of the best plate discipline of any prospect in baseball, rarely chasing outside of the strike zone, drawing walks and doing damage on pitches in all parts of the zone. He’s a table-setter who racks up stolen bases and has doubles power. He has the ability to play second base, shortstop and third base and profiles long-term at the hot corner.

18. Sal Stewart, INF, Cincinnati Reds (MLB — Sept. callup)

Age: 21
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 225
Scouting Grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 55 RUN: 40 ARM: 55 FLD: 45

Stewart can flat-out hit and has above-average power. He has the ability to play second, third and first base, albeit all at a below-average level. His bat will carry him and playing his home games at Great American Ball Park will help his raw power translate into big-league home runs. He is major-league ready and was given his first MLB opportunity when rosters expanded on Monday.

19. Andrew Painter, RHP, Philadelphia Phillies (Triple A)

Age: 22
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-7 Weight: 215
Scouting Grades: FB: 70 CB: 50 SLI: 60 CH: 55 CMND: 55 CTL: 60

Painter was the best pitching prospect in baseball before he underwent Tommy John surgery in July 2023. He is now healthy but hasn’t returned to his pre-surgery form. In 2022, he went 6-2 with a 1.56 ERA over 22 starts, with 155 strikeouts and 24 walks in 103 2/3 innings. His fastball was a plus pitch and the slider was another reliable weapon. Next season, when he’s another year removed from the surgery, Painter could get back to that dominating form and once again be the best pitching prospect in baseball. Before the injury he profiled as a future Cy Young Award caliber pitcher.

20. Seth Hernandez, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates (Rookie)

Age: 19
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-4 Weight: 193
Scouting Grades: FB: 70 CB: 60 SLI: 50 CH: 60 CMND: 55 CTL: 60

The Pirates selected Hernandez with the sixth pick in the 2025 draft. He has the most upside of any pitcher taken in this year’s draft, with a sound delivery, dominating fastball and well-above-average curveball and changeup. The only reason he wasn’t selected earlier was the perceived risk that comes with drafting high school pitchers, particularly right-handed high school pitchers.

21. Braden Montgomery, OF, Chicago White Sox (Double A)

Age: 22
Bats: B Throws: R
Height: 6-2 Weight: 220
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 50 ARM: 65 FLD: 50

Montgomery is a complete player who will contribute with the bat and the glove. In the outfield, Montgomery is a sound defender with a right fielder’s arm. (He was a two-way player early in his college career.) Offensively, he’s going to hit for power and can steal a base, having fully recovered from the broken ankle he suffered during the 2024 NCAA Super Regionals. The switch-hitter has a great work ethic and feel for the game, as well as special leadership qualities. He was one of the headliners along with catcher Kyle Teel in the package the White Sox received for Garrett Crochet in the offseason trade with the Red Sox. He’s on a quick path to the majors and should arrive early next year.

22. Carson Benge, OF, New York Mets (Triple A)

Age: 22
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 185
Scouting Grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 50 RUN: 55 ARM: 60 FLD: 55

The Mets got a steal with Benge, whom they selected with the No. 19 pick in the 2024 draft. He was a two-way player at Oklahoma State and threw 95-98 mph from the mound. Since turning pro, he’s been a full-time position player. He is a good athlete and capable of playing all three outfield positions, while being a 20 home run/20 stolen base-type hitter. He’s “hit” over “power” and should be major-league ready sometime next year.

23. Bryce Rainer, SS, Detroit Tigers (Low A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-3 Weight: 200
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 55 ARM: 70 FLD: 50

Rainer was the Tigers’ first-round pick in 2024. He got off to a fast start this year before suffering a right shoulder dislocation diving back to first base in June, which resulted in season-ending surgery. He is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for spring training. Rainer reminds me of a young Corey Seager, as he has a big frame for a shortstop but is a plus defender with an impressive arm and at the plate he has average bat speed and surprising raw power.

24. Josue De Paula, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers (High A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-3 Weight: 188
Scouting Grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 55 RUN: 45 ARM: 50 FLD: 35

De Paula can really hit and his power has drawn comparisons to Yordan Alvarez at times. However, De Paula is a well-below-average defender in the outfield corners and DH is probably his best spot. He doesn’t have great speed, but he has good instincts on the basepaths. His left-handed stroke is special and so is the loud, consistent sweet-spot contact. I love the bat.

George Lombard Jr. jumped from High A to Double A this season. (Kim Klement Neitzel / Imagn Images)25. George Lombard Jr., New York Yankees (Double A)

Age: 20
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-2 Weight: 190
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 55 ARM: 55 FLD: 60

Lombard is an exciting young shortstop prospect. He’s the son of former big leaguer George Lombard Sr., who is the Detroit Tigers’ bench coach. The younger Lombard, like his dad, has a high baseball IQ and seems to always be at the right spot on the field at the right time. He knows how to work a count, get on base and steal bags. He profiles as a future table-setter. His offense has tapered off after a mid-season promotion to Double A, but that is always a big jump for players and I’m not worried about his long-term offensive projection based on this adjustment period. Defensively, he has quick hands and feet with smooth big-league actions and a strong arm.

26. Zyhir Hope, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers (High A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 5-10 Weight: 195
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 55 ARM: 60 FLD: 55

Hope is an electric outfielder who profiles as a future 20 homer/20 steal player who can also run the ball down in the outfield gaps and throw out runners on the bases. He has above-average exit velocities and bat speed, as well as tremendous quick-twitch muscles and athleticism. He has a high ceiling and might catapult up this list early next year. Hope is a smart player who will overachieve.

27. Luis Peña, INF, Milwaukee Brewers (High A)

Age: 18
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 5-11 Weight 184
Scouting Grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 50 RUN: 70 ARM: 55 FLD: 50

Peña is a future leadoff hitter who can get on base and steal bags at will. His bat-to-ball skills and hand-eye coordination are special. He can play second base, shortstop and third base, but will probably end up at second. He’s a solid defender with a plus arm, but it’s the “hit” and “run” tools that will carry the day for him.

28. Trey Yesavage, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays (Triple A)

Age: 22
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-4 Weight: 225
Scouting Grades: FB: 60 CB: 50 SLI: 55 SF: 60 CMND: 45 CTL: 50

Yesavage is a beast on the mound with a bulldog mentality. The Jays’ 2024 first-round pick profiles as a mid-rotation starter who misses bats at a high level. He uses a short arm action to challenge hitters with a mid-90s fastball, a wipeout split-finger fastball and a solid, but inconsistent slider.

29. Justin Crawford, CF, Philadelphia Phillies (Triple A)

Age: 21
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-2 Weight: 190
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 40 RUN: 70 ARM: 55 FLD: 60

Crawford is the son of former major leaguer Carl Crawford. The younger Crawford was the Phillies’ first-round pick in 2022. He’s had a great year in Triple A, hitting .336 with 45 stolen bases, though the power hasn’t emerged yet. Defensively, he’s an asset, catching everything in center field. I’m surprised the Phillies haven’t given him his first major-league opportunity, which now might have to come next year.

30. Liam Doyle, LHP, St. Louis Cardinals (Rookie)

Age: 21
Bats: R Throws: L
Height: 6-2 Weight: 220
Scouting Grades: FB: 70 SLI: 55 CT: 55 SF: 55 CMND: 50 CTL: 50

Doyle was the Cardinals’ first-round selection this year at No. 5. His dominant pitch is an overpowering fastball that hits triple digits and explodes in the strike zone. He also has three plus secondary offerings. He needs to work on his command, and if it improves, he has the potential to lead the Cardinals’ staff for years to come.

31. Lazaro Montes, OF, Seattle Mariners (Double A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-5 Weight: 211
Scouting Grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 65 RUN: 35 ARM: 50 FLD: 40

Montes is one of the best left-handed power hitters in the minor leagues. He profiles as a 40-home run hitter with elite bat speed and backspin. He does have swing-and-miss in his game — that will always be an issue for him. He’s also a below-average defender in an outfield corner and can’t run at all. Long term, he profiles as a power-hitting DH.

32. Franklin Arias, SS, Boston Red Sox (Double A)

Age: 19
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 5-11 Weight: 170
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 45 RUN: 45 ARM: 55 FLD: 60

Arias is one of the best defensive shortstops in the minor leagues. He has a sure glove, smooth actions and a strong, accurate arm. At the plate, he has a short, compact stroke from the right side. He can work a count and get on base, but is a below-average runner with below-average power. The Red Sox promoted him to Double A this week.

33. Josue Briceño, 1B/C, Detroit Tigers (Double A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-4 Weight: 201
Scouting Grades: HIT: 60 PWR: 60 RUN: 40 ARM: 55 FLD: 40

Coming off an eye-opening performance in the Arizona Fall League during which he won the league’s Triple Crown, Briceño has continued to impress this year. He’s become yet another top prospect for the Tigers and the fourth one already on this list. Briceño puts together solid at-bats and gets on base. He has plus power and the ability to drive in runs. He’s a below-average defender behind the plate and at first base but has made some progress with the glove this year at first. The bat and power will play.

34. Alfredo Duno, C, Cincinnati Reds (Low A)

Age: 19
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-2 Weight: 210
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 40 ARM: 65 FLD: 55

Duno is one of the best catching prospects in baseball. He has a plus arm and above-average ability to both block and frame pitches. Offensively, he’s a big, powerful right-handed hitter with legit power and elite bat speed. He’ll draw walks and drive in the big runs.

Jett Williams has been healthy this season after missing much of the 2024 campaign. (Sam Navarro / Imagn Images)35. Jett Williams, INF/OF, New York Mets (Triple A)

Age: 21
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 5-7 Weight: 177
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 60 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

Williams can play second base, shortstop and center field and his best role might be as a super utility player, similar to how the Dodgers have used Tommy Edman. Williams is an on-base machine who racks up stolen bases. He’s had to deal with several injuries over his career, with his right wrist being his biggest setback, but he’s stayed on the field consistently this season.

36. Jamie Arnold, LHP, Athletics (Rookie)

Age: 21
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-1 Weight: 190
Scouting Grades: FB: 60 SLI: 70 CH: 50 CMND: 50 CTL: 55

The Athletics took Arnold at No. 11 in this year’s draft out of Florida State. He will make his official professional debut in spring training. His fastball is 95-97 mph and he combines that with a nasty slider/sweeper, which he varies in shapes and sizes. In college, he struck out over 40 percent of hitters. He has a good feel for a changeup but didn’t need to throw it much at FSU. He’s a strike-thrower with a deceptive, three-quarters delivery that has drawn some comparisons to Chris Sale.

37. Harry Ford, C, Seattle Mariners (MLB — Sept. callup)

Age: 22
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 5-10 Weight: 200
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 55 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

Ford works the counts, draws his walks and reaches base at a better than 40 percent clip. He has average-to-slightly-above-average power to all fields and plus speed for a catcher. He’s a solid game caller, but overall is a below-average defender behind the plate, needing to improve his blocking and framing. The Mariners tried Ford a bit in left field in 2024, but the experiment didn’t take and he’s only played catcher this season. Ford was called up when rosters expanded Monday — though, don’t be surprised if he’s traded in the offseason with Cal Raleigh ahead of him on Seattle’s catching depth chart.

38. Aidan Miller, SS/3B, Philadelphia Phillies (Double A)

Age: 21
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 202
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 50 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

The Phillies believe that Miller will be able to stay at shortstop as an average fielder with a plus arm; there are others in the industry who believe he’ll end up at third base. Either way, he profiles as an everyday player on the left side of the infield with above-average offensive potential. He’s a hard worker who makes adjustments and although he hasn’t hit for a lot of power yet, it’s certainly in there and will eventually result in the kind of home run power that fits the middle of the lineup.

39. Mike Sirota, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers (High A)

Age: 22
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-2 Weight: 190
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 60 ARM: 55 FLD: 55

Sirota is the third Dodgers outfield prospect on this list and he might end up the best hitter of the group before it’s all said and done. Prior to a knee injury that landed him on the injured list in early July, he was having a terrific year, getting on base at a .452 clip with 16 doubles and 14 home runs. He has great plate discipline and bat speed and if he learns to improve his launch angle, he could become a 25-home run hitter in time. Defensively, he’s a solid defender in center field, with first-step quickness, good reads, routes and instincts, and a plus arm.

40. Aiva Arquette, SS, Miami Marlins (High A)

Age: 21
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-5 Weight: 221
Scouting Grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 60 RUN: 50 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

Arquette was the Marlins’ first-round pick this year (No. 7 selection) out of Oregon State. He has a huge frame for shortstop but should be able to stay there with a gun for an arm and average range. Power is his best tool as he profiles as a 30-home run hitter. For his size, he has a quick, short right-handed power swing that results in towering long balls that will break outfield seats in the future. I’ve only seen him on video but was impressed enough to already include him on this list.

41. Robby Snelling, LHP, Miami Marlins (Triple A)

Age: 21
Bats: R Throws: L
Height: 6-3 Weight: 210
Scouting Grades: FB: 60 SLI: 55 CH: 50 CMND: 45 CTL: 50

Snelling was the headline prospect in the trade that sent Tanner Scott to the Padres last summer, and it looks like the 21-year-old will pay dividends for the Marlins as early as next season. He’s had a more than respectable season between Double A and Triple A, striking out 139 in 118 innings. His fastball/slider combination has been impressive, and his changeup is improving. Now, he just needs to make his command a little more crisp and he should be in The Show sometime early next year.

Michael Arroyo profiles as a bat-first second baseman. (Tracy Proffitt / Four Seam Images via Associated Press)42. Michael Arroyo, 2B, Seattle Mariners (Double A)

Age: 20
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 5-10 Weight: 165
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 50 ARM: 50 FLD: 50

Arroyo has a compact frame that matches his short, compact swing. He’s quick to the ball with gap power to all fields. He’s an average runner but smart and aggressive on the bases. Defensively, Arroyo has below-average range and is inconsistent with the glove at this point in his development. He makes the most out of his talent and profiles as an everyday bat-over-glove-type second baseman.

43. Carter Jensen, C, Kansas City Royals (MLB — Sept. callup)

Age: 22
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-0 Weight: 210
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 40 ARM: 55 FLD: 55

Jensen is the Royals’ top catching prospect and one of two on this list (Blake Mitchell is the other). Mitchell is a better defender, but Jensen could end up being the better overall catcher because he’s more of a complete player on both sides of the ball. Offensively, he can really hit for power and drive in runs. Behind the plate, he’s above average in most defensive areas, including game calling and pitch framing. He’s had a head-turning year for the Royals, who are loaded with catching prospects, and he received his first major-league call-up on Sept. 1.

44. Gage Jump, LHP, Athletics (Double A)

Age: 22
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-0 Weight: 200
Scouting Grades: FB: 55 CB: 55 SLI: 65 CH: 50 CMND: 55 CTL: 55

Jump’s fastball sits 95-97 mph with nasty four-seam life at the top of the zone. His curveball has downer late break and his breaking ball (a hybrid between a cutter and a slider) is his best secondary pitch. He also mixes in an occasional changeup. The southpaw’s delivery is deceptive because of his lower arm angle. Jump had Tommy John surgery in 2023 while in college, but he’s made a full recovery. After throwing 83 innings last season at LSU, the 2024 Compensation Round B pick has already eclipsed the 100-inning mark this year and has kept his ERA under 3.00 and struck out 10.7 batters per nine innings while splitting time between High A and Double A. He’s a real sleeper prospect.

45. Blake Mitchell, C, Kansas City Royals (High A)

Age: 21
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 200
Scouting Grades: HIT: 50 PWR: 60 RUN: 35 ARM: 75 FLD: 55

Mitchell is an above-average defensive catcher with a rifle for an arm that can control the running game. He’s a strong pitch blocker, calls a good game and is solid at framing pitches. He missed time at the start of the season after fracturing his hamate bone in February, which may have impacted his power numbers. When fully healthy, he’s an average hitter with plus power. He draws his walks and spits on pitches out of the strike zone.

46. Arjun Nimmala, SS, Toronto Blue Jays (High A)

Age: 19
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-1 Weight: 172
Scouting Grades: HIT: 45 PWR: 60 RUN: 50 ARM: 60 FLD: 50

Nimmala is a fascinating prospect because he has all the tools except the most important one for a position player: the hit tool. He has legit power and above-average speed and is a solid defensive shortstop with a strong arm. The big question is: Will he hit major-league pitching well enough when he gets there? In two professional seasons, he’s hit .229, though he’s played in a couple of leagues (the Florida State League and the Northwest League) that are tough on hitters and he’s been one of the youngest players at each level. I’m betting on his athleticism, work ethic and the Blue Jays’ hitting coaches to help him hit enough to be a major-league regular.

47. Jonny Farmelo, OF, Seattle Mariners (High A)

Age: 20
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-2 Weight: 204
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 65 ARM: 50 FLD: 55

I loved Farmelo coming out of the 2023 draft and he was off to a fast start last year in Low A before he tore his ACL in June, ending his season after just 46 games. After he returned from the ACL injury this year, he went down with a rib injury, missing two months before being reinstated on Aug. 9. How he comes back from all these injuries next year will tell us if he can return to the form that made him a first-round pick. When healthy, his “hit” and “run” tools were his two best attributes. In fact, he stole 18 bases in 20 attempts last season before the knee injury. He’s stolen only one base this year but does have six homers in his 98 at-bats.

48. Theo Gillen, OF, Tampa Bay Rays (Low A)

Age: 19
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6-2 Weight: 198
Scouting Grades: HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 60 ARM: 45 FLD: 50

Gillen was the Rays’ first-round pick in 2024 (No. 18 selection). He can play all three outfield positions with plus range and a below-average arm. (Gillen had surgery on the labrum of his throwing shoulder in high school.) Offensively, he’s a prototypical leadoff hitter who understands that his role is to get on base and then use his speed. In 39 stolen base attempts, he has been successful 36 times. The left-handed hitter has above-average bat-to-ball skills with quick hands and the ability to manipulate the barrel. He has a high baseball IQ, is a quick learner and can make adjustments. Injuries were an issue for Gillen in high school (he also had wrist and knee ailments) and he’s missed significant time this season with a calf injury. He’s currently on the injured list.

49. Ryan Sloan, RHP, Seattle Mariners (High A)

Age: 19
Bats: R Throws: R
Height: 6-5 Weight: 220
Scouting Grades: FB: 65 SLI: 55 CH: 60 CMND: 50 CTL: 55

Sloan was the Mariners’ second-round pick in 2024. His mid-90s fastball has riding four-seam life and he’ll also cut it against left-handed hitters. His slider is above average with late break and his changeup sinks and fades with deception. He misses bats and gets groundballs. Sloan profiles as a mid-rotation innings-eater who pounds the strike zone and pitches ahead in the count.

50. Cam Caminiti, LHP, Atlanta Braves (Low A)

Age: 19
Bats: L Throws: L
Height: 6-2 Weight: 199
Scouting Grades: FB: 60 CB: 50 SLI: 55 CH: 60 CMND: 45 Ctl: 45

Caminiti, a cousin of former MLB third baseman Ken Caminiti, was the Braves’ first-round pick (No. 24 selection) in the 2024 draft. He started this year in Rookie ball, where he made four starts before being promoted to Low-A Augusta in the Carolina League. Since his promotion, he’s made 12 more starts, posting a 2.32 ERA over 50 1/3 innings, with a whopping 68 strikeouts but also 23 walks. He has the full repertoire to be a successful big leaguer once he figures out how to improve the command and control of his pitches. He has the composure, maturity and poise to move quickly through the Braves system once that happens.

(Illustration: Demetrius Robinson / The Athletic; Top photos: Kim Klement Neitzel / Imagn Images, Joe Robbins / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images, George Kubas / Diamond Images via Getty Images)