Don't let a player's position on a list overly influence your perception. In the Braves' pitching realm, both Baseball America and MLB Pipeline offer valuable insights. Despite having eight pitchers of the same position (pitcher) on their top-10 lists, with two recovering from UCL replacement surgery, they only agree on the ranks of four. The Braves boast an abundance of pitching prospects, and their depth has been crucial during their seven-year postseason run. As you explore, remember that projections of future success are subjective; low-ranked prospects can shine, and top prospects can fade.

Garrett Bauman: A Promising Right-Hander

Bauman stands out as a 6-foot-8, 245-pound right-hander. In 2024, he threw 92+ innings across 18 starts and one relief appearance for Augusta, achieving a remarkable 3.42 ERA. He struck out 82 batters while walking only 23. His heater reaches 93-94 mph and even touched 98, with significant movement. Baseball America suggests he might add a two-seam fastball to his arsenal and has the potential to be a workhorse-like back-end starter. Although it will take time for him to fully develop, as he only turned 20 in August, he is set to start 2025 with Rome.His performance showcases his ability to command the mound and generate positive results. The combination of his size and pitching skills makes him a prospect to watch as he continues to progress.

Lucas Braun: A Versatile Pitcher with Potential

Braun had an impressive 2024 with Mississippi. Over 143+ innings, he pitched to a 3.26 ERA, striking out 162 batters and walking 42. As a pro, he moved to the third base side of the rubber, adding some deception to his delivery with a low release height and a unique crossfire landing.He features a 93 mph fastball that can reach 95-96 mph, along with a mid-80s slider and a 78-82 mph curveball. While the curveball and slider are still a work in progress, he focuses on inducing weak contact and relying on his defense. With his current trajectory, he may start 2025 with Mississippi but has the potential to quickly move up to Gwinnett and even make his debut this season.

Drue Hackenberg: A Rising Star in the System

Hackenberg began the season with Rome and quickly rose through the ranks to end it at Gwinnett. His 144 strikeouts were second only to Braun's 162 in the system. He also had a 53.9% groundball rate, which was third among pitchers with at least 50 innings pitched. Both of his fastballs are in the low 90s range, with his two-seamer generating a significant number of groundballs. His curveball is one of the best in the system according to Baseball America.Projected as a back-of-the-rotation starter, Hackenberg is likely to make an appearance in Atlanta in 2025. His consistent performance and potential make him a key player in the Braves' pitching future.