The Atlanta Braves have seen a remarkable rise in the prospects of two key players, Drake Baldwin and Hurston Waldrep. Baldwin has been named the 37th top prospect in all of baseball by Baseball Prospectus, while Waldrep follows closely at 93rd overall. Both players had notable performances in 2024, with Baldwin excelling particularly after his promotion to Triple-A Gwinnett. Waldrep, on the other hand, faced challenges but showed promise, especially in Double-A Mississippi. The upcoming 2025 season promises to be pivotal for both players as they aim to secure their positions in the major league.
Baldwin's Breakthrough Performance
Drake Baldwin's journey from the third round draft pick in 2022 to becoming one of baseball's top prospects is nothing short of impressive. His standout performance in 2024 propelled him into the limelight. After starting in Double-A Mississippi, where he demonstrated solid skills despite modest batting averages, Baldwin was promoted to Triple-A Gwinnett. Here, his game truly flourished, with significant improvements in hitting and on-base percentages.
Baldwin's ascent can be attributed to his ability to adapt and excel at higher levels of competition. In Double-A Mississippi, he played in 52 games, showcasing respectable statistics that hinted at potential. However, it was his move to Triple-A Gwinnett that truly set him apart. There, he hit .298/.407/.484, bolstered by an impressive walk rate and isolated power (ISO). This surge in performance not only elevated his stock but also positioned him as a formidable contender for future opportunities in the major leagues. The consistency and improvement in his game suggest that Baldwin is ready to take on greater challenges and make a significant impact for the Braves.
Waldrep's Path to Development
Hurston Waldrep's path to recognition as the 93rd top prospect has been marked by both highs and lows. His journey through the ranks in 2024 highlighted areas of strength as well as areas needing improvement. Waldrep began the year strong in Double-A Mississippi, where he made a promising start with a low ERA and high strikeout rate. However, his transition to Triple-A Gwinnett presented new challenges, particularly in maintaining control over his pitches.
Despite initial success in Double-A, Waldrep's struggles became evident when he moved up to Triple-A Gwinnett. His walk rate increased significantly, indicating difficulties with pitch command. These issues were further exacerbated during his brief stint with the Atlanta Braves, where he faced tough competition and struggled with fastball accuracy. The resulting high ERA and FIP underscored the need for refinement in his pitching mechanics. For Waldrep, the focus moving forward will be on improving his fastball command and adding more deception to his pitches. Developing these skills is crucial for overcoming major league hitters who anticipate his splitter. As the Braves prepare for Spring Training, Waldrep's development will be closely watched, with hopes that he can address these challenges and compete effectively for a spot in the big leagues.