2023-2024 First Year Player Draft Primer

Opening Thoughts:

This article is a deep dive into the top 25 First Year Player Draft-eligible players. Players are ranked based on several factors, including long-term potential, fantasy outlook, team context, etc. Scouting report information and data were compiled from numerous sources, including MLBPipeline, MiLB.com, and Prep Baseball Report. Swing mechanic descriptions are based solely on my observations, following the extensive review of video obtained from various sources. Fantasy outlook is my opinion only and does not necessarily reflect the ideas of the Pitcher List staff.

 

1) Wyatt Langford, OF, TEX

Overview:

Wyatt Langford is an easy choice as the #1 player available in this year’s FYPD. As a two-year starter at Florida, Langford dominated SEC pitching, posting a .363/.471/.746 slash line with 47 homers and 120 RBIs. He walked 92 times to 89 strikeouts, totaled 90 extra-base hits, and stole 16 bases in 21 attempts. The two-time All-American was the 4th overall pick in the 2023 draft, landing with the Texas Rangers. Upon his arrival with the Rangers, Langford picked up where he left off in Gainesville. In 44 games, he hit .360 with ten homers and 12 steals across FOUR levels, finishing up at AAA Round Rock. At 21 years old, Langford posted a 1.157 OPS in the minors.

Tools:

Langford is a true five-tool player. His advanced plate approach and baserunning skills show high baseball IQ and maturity beyond his years. As a hitter, Langford has a beautiful swing with no wasted movement and can drive the ball to all fields. Scouts see potential double-plus power, and Langford should easily be a 30-homer bat in the big leagues. His 6’1″, 225 lb frame is strong and lean, but he runs well and will steal plenty of bases. As a defender, Langford has adapted well to the outfield after being an infielder as a prep, and his athleticism will continue to aid his transition.

Swing Mechanics:

Langford has a compact stance from the right side. He stands upright with a slight lean, putting his weight on his back foot. His hands are back and slightly up, almost even with his back shoulder. As he starts his swing, Langford slowly lifts his front foot, raising his knee to just below hip level. His hands cock back slightly, his front foot drives down, and he flushes his hands through the hitting zone.

Fantasy Outlook:

Langford seems like a lock to debut on Opening Day 2024. For fantasy, Langford should be rostered in all formats with an extra bump in points leagues due to his high OBP and advanced plate approach. As a dynasty asset, Langford is already Top 100 and will be Top 35 by the end of the season.

 

2) Dylan Crews, OF, WSH  

Overview:

Dylan Crews would be a consensus #1 pick in FYPD in most years, but not in 2023. The reigning SEC Player of the Year and 2023 Golden Spikes Award winner was the 2nd overall selection by the Washington Nationals in July. Crews finished an illustrious three-year career at LSU, hitting .380 with 58 homers and 421 combined runs and RBIs. The Tigers’ outfielder walked at a 20% rate and added 23 steals in his career, culminating with a National Championship last spring. In addition to his accolades for the Tigers, Crews represented the US Collegiate National Baseball team on two occasions. As a professional, Crews got off to a fast start playing at Low-A, hitting .355 over his first 14 games, but cooled (.208 average) upon his promotion to Double-A. Crews finished with a .292 average, five homers, and 29 RBIs in his brief 35-game sample, although he did post a 27.7% strikeout rate.

Tools:

Crews had a 70-grade hit tool entering the draft, which is slightly unfair. The bat-to-ball skills are legit, and so is the power. He makes sound swing decisions and has a good feel for the zone, although I have underlying concerns about the swing-and-miss in his game. Crews is a 20-plus homer bat all day and could come into additional power if he adds strength. At 6’0″and 205 lbs., Crews runs well and should settle into double-digit steal upside, although he’s had just a 40% success rate as a pro. Defensively, Crews is athletic enough and should be a solid centerfielder in the long run.

Swing Mechanics:

Crews stands tall at the plate with his hands high near his right ear. As his swing begins, Crews drops his hands slightly toward his waist and softly pushes them toward his back foot. His front foot has a subtle lift and returns down just before his hands enter the hitting zone.

Fantasy Outlook:

Crews still needs some time in the minors but could see a late-summer callup in 2024. With the Nationals not expecting to compete next season, there is no rush to get Crews to the big leagues. Crews has all the tools to be a top-50 dynasty asset in the long run, and a stellar performance in 2024 will only help his stock.

 

3) Yoshinobu Yamamoto, SP, NPB

Overview:

Japanese pitchers rarely come to the US just as they enter their prime, but Yoshinobu Yamamoto is doing precisely that. After the 2023 Nippon Pro Baseball (NPB) season, Yamamoto will be 25 years old and figures to generate the largest MLB contract for a Japanese import since Masahiro Tanaka signed for $155M in 2004. Yamamoto has accomplished all he can in the NBP, winning the Sawamura Award (equivalent to the Cy Young) and the MVP award each of the last two seasons. This season, Yamamoto has thrown two no-hitters, most recently in September, in front of several MLB executives. For 2023, Yamamoto is 16-6 with a 1.26 ERA and 0.89 WHIP over 164 innings. This historic 2023 season comes on the heels of a dominant World Baseball Classic, where he struck out 12 hitters in 7 1/3 innings, leading Japan to the championship.

Tools:

Yamamoto has exceptional control and command, yielding an elite 5.8% walk-rate over his seven-year career. He features a three-pitch mix and keeps hitters guessing with his unique arsenal. Like most Japanese pitchers before him, Yamamoto relies heavily on his splitter. The pitch averages 88-91 mph and disappears on hitters, perfectly complimenting his fastball. The four-seam fastball sits in the mid-to-upper 90s, jumping at hitters, and has a ton of late life. His third pitch is a curveball, with the unique release shown below. The curve is a plus pitch for him and has hard vertical tumbling action. Standing just 5’10”, Yamamoto is not an imposing presence by stature but has skills that will challenge even the best hitters.

Fantasy Outlook:

Yamamoto will be a hot commodity for MLB teams this winter and should slot into the middle of any rotation. For fantasy purposes, I’d expect a similar outcome to Kodai Senga this season, with fewer control problems. Yamamoto will need to adjust to Major League hitting but should be, at worst, a top-40 SP for 2024.

 

4) Paul Skenes, SP, PIT

Overview:

By now, you know the story of Paul Skenes, the Air Force transfer who made his way to LSU and, in the process, became the most heralded NCAA pitcher since Stephen Strasburg. The 6’6″ right-hander was selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates as the #1 overall pick in the July draft, just weeks after concluding one the best individual pitching seasons in NCAA history. As the ace of the National Champions, Skenes compiled a 12-2 record and 1.69 ERA over 122-and-2/3 innings. He had gaudy strikeout numbers, including an absurd 45.2% strikeout rate, a 10:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio, and 15.3 K/9. With the Pirates in a habitual rebuild, Skenes immediately becomes the best arm in their organization and the top pitching prospect in baseball. The Pirates elected to have Skenes make his professional debut in August with mixed results. In five starts, Skenes threw 6 2/3 innings, allowing four earned runs and striking out 10. After his final outing on September 4th, the Pirates placed Skenes on the developmental list, effectively ending his season.

Tools:

Paul Skenes is your prototypical power pitcher with an upper-90s fastball that reaches triple digits and a devastating slider. His four-seam fastball has a unique flat-angle approach, similar to what you’d see from aces like Jacob deGrom and Aaron Nola. The combination of high velocity and the rise/carry effect makes Skenes’ fastball a double-plus pitch and sets hitters up for his breaking pitches. The slider sits in the upper-80s with incredible break and depth, producing massive Whiff rates north of 60%. The change-up is an above-average third offering coming from the same tunnel as the fastball and has significant speed variance (10-12 mph) from the heater. Skenes has a seemingly effortless delivery that is easily repeatable and has an athletic finish.

Fantasy Outlook:

Barring injury or a forgettable Spring Training, Skenes is a lock to join the Pirates rotation, possibly as the Opening Day starter. He is a must-roster in all league formats with the expectation of limited innings in his first season. Skenes is a top-30 SP asset for dynasty purposes.

 

5) Matt Shaw, SS, CHC  

Overview:

The Cubs got a steal when they selected Maryland shortstop Matt Shaw with the 13th overall pick. From the day Matt Shaw arrived on campus in College Park, Maryland, he did one thing: HIT. As a true freshman in 2021, Shaw had a team-leading .332 average and hit .290 as a sophomore. In the summer of 2022, Shaw made his way to the Cape Cod Summer League, earning MVP honors, hitting .360 with five homers, 19 RBIs, and 21 stolen bases in 36 games. To close his career, Shaw hit .341 with 24 HRs and 69 RBIs, finishing in the top 10 in program history for single-season HRs, RBIs, total bases, and at-bats. In his pro debut this summer, Shaw continued to rake. Hitting his way up to Double-A, Shaw finished with a .357 average, eight homers, and 15 steals in 38 games.

Tools:

Without question, Shaw is among the top bats in the class. With an advanced feel for the zone and a consistent approach, Shaw is a tough out. He is a bit smaller (5’11”, 185lbs) than most MLB shortstops, but Shaw is strong and has plenty of pop in his bat. Shaw hits the ball hard to all fields with a 90th percentile exit velocity reaching 107mph. As a runner, Shaw has plus speed and has shown the propensity to run at will. Currently, Shaw is playing shortstop, but scouts see him as more of a second baseman in the future.

Swing Mechanics:

Shaw has a compact stance in the box with bent knees and his front foot turned slightly inward. His hands are shoulder level and remain on the same plane until he swings. As the swing starts, his front leg has a pronounced inward lift and then drives forward simultaneously with his hands.

Fantasy Outlook:

The Cubs pushed Shaw quickly up the ranks after the draft, but historically, the organization has hesitated to promote prospects. With Dansby Swanson firmly entrenched as the team’s shortstop, Shaw must move to second. With that in mind, Shaw will debut by the end of 2024 but will not become a regular until 2025. Once he’s in the big leagues, I’d expect Shaw to be a definite Top 10, borderline Top 5 dynasty asset at his position.

 

6) Walker Jenkins, OF, MIN

Overview:

Walker Jenkins is the fifth player on my list, much like his 5th overall selection by the Twins this summer. The 6’3″ outfielder was the second prep player selected, following the Tigers selection of Max Clark. As a senior, Jenkins was named the 2023 Gatorade POY in North Carolina after he hit .417 with a .632 on-base percentage. That was the 2nd consecutive season he won that award. The Twins assigned Jenkins to the Florida Complex League, and he made a memorable first impression, crushing a grand slam for his first professional home run. As a pro, Jenkins played 26 games between Complex and Low-A, hitting .362 with three homers and a .988 OPS. He was also successful on six of his nine stolen base attempts.

 Tools:

Walker Jenkins has a beautiful left-handed swing with significant gap-to-gap power. At 210 pounds, there is still room for additional strength in his projectable frame, although I’d expect that to come at the expense of speed. For now, Jenkins is a capable base stealer and should post respectable SB numbers. The hit tool isn’t as developed as Langford or Crews, but Jenkins still projects as a .270-ish hitter with the plus-power, making him a desirable dynasty asset. As a defender, Walker is likely a corner outfielder, although he’s played most of his career in center.

Swing Mechanics:

Jenkins has a pure stroke from the left side. In the box, he stands tall with his knees slightly bent. His back elbow is parallel to the ground, and his hands are high, slightly wiggling the bat. As he starts his swing, his front foot lifts slightly inward, returning to the ground just as he brings his hands forward to the zone.

Fantasy Outlook:

An obvious fantasy stash. Don’t expect Jenkins to make a fantasy impact until late 2025, and that’s a reach. Jenkins has top-5 overall prospect potential and is a precious dynasty asset.

 

7)  Max Clark, OF, DET  

Overview: 

The top-rated HS player on the board was Max Clark, an outfielder from Indiana who was selected 3rd overall by the Detroit Tigers. The Tigers inked Clark, a Vanderbilt commit, to a $7.7M deal following the July draft. Playing a short season in the cold Midwest was no problem for Clark, who posted a ridiculous .646 batting average and absurd 2.023 OPS, adding six homers and 35 steals over 28 games. That performance led to Clark’s selection as the 2023 Gatorade National Player of the Year. In 2022, Clark was a starter on the U-18 US National Team, hitting .280 with one HR and 4 RBIs en route to winning a gold medal. As a pro, Clark has struggled. In 23 games, Clark hit .224 with a near-30% strikeout rate. Still 18 years old, Clark has plenty of room for growth and development, and the sample is too small to pass judgment.

Tools:

Like Jenkins, Clark is a left-handed bat with advanced bat-to-ball skills and above-average speed. Clark is a line-drive hitter, and although he lacks the same power upside, scouts believe he projects as a 20-homer bat down the road. On the bases, Clark poses a threat, receiving a 70-grade speed rating and the ability to run at will. The speed and athleticism also play defensively, as Clark has outstanding range and is considered a long-term center fielder.

Swing Mechanics:

Clark has a wide stance in the box with his feet more than shoulder-width apart. His hands rest just below his back shoulder, and he wiggles the bat in a circular motion. As the pitcher begins their delivery, the bat wiggle is more pronounced. Clark lifts his front foot slightly and extends it outward. At the same time, his hands are pulled back and then fly quickly through the zone.

Fantasy Outlook:

Clark is not contributing in 2024 or 2025; realistically, we won’t see him until 2026 at the earliest. Once in the Majors, Clark slots in as the everyday CF. The book is out on what Clark becomes, but his best possible outcome is an OF2. Clark offers plenty of speed and projectable power for your fantasy teams, although his home ballpark could be a more conducive offensive environment.

 

8) Hurston Waldrep, SP,  ATL

Overview:

With the 24th pick, the Braves snagged stud right-handed pitcher Hurston Waldrep. Originally a Southern Miss recruit, Waldrep transferred to Florida his junior season, going 10-3 with a 4.16 ERA and 156 strikeouts in 19 games. In 2023, Waldrep set a school record with 13.9 K/9 and earned 2nd team All-American honors. But nothing compared to Waldrep’s performance when the pressure was on. He started a magical postseason run by dominating South Carolina, tossing eight scoreless innings, allowing just three hits and 13 punchouts, and single-handedly pitching Florida to the CWS. Then, in his three CWS starts leading up to the Finals Series, Waldrep recorded three straight games with double-digit strikeouts. Since joining the Braves, Waldrep has been promoted through four levels to Triple-A, impressing with a 1.53 ERA and 41 strikeouts over 29 innings pitched.

Tools:

Waldrep has the potential to be as good as anyone in this class. Headlined by his change-up, Waldrep has an arsenal with a significant bat-missing upside. The change-up (also classified as a splitter) rests in the mid-80s and appears to be the four-seamer before taking a devastating dive out of the zone, resulting in plenty of Whiffs and groundballs. The four-seam fastball sits in the mid-90s and flirts with triple-digits, although the command lacks consistency. Waldrep also throws a slider and cutter, with the slider the best of the two.

Fantasy Outlook:

The Braves organization is a perfect landing spot for Waldrep. Over the past two seasons, we’ve seen the historic rise of Spencer Strider, in addition to significant prospect development in AJ Smith-Shawver and Owen Murphy. The Braves will aggressively promote prospects, and I firmly believe Waldrep will be a significant contributor in 2024.

 

9) Brock Wilken, 3B, MIL

Overview:

After demolishing school records at Wake Forest, third baseman Brock Wilken was the 18th overall pick of the Milwaukee Brewers. As a prototypical power-hitting corner infielder, Wilken was a monster in his time with the Demon Deacons. He hit 71 homers in three years, breaking the program record and tying Max Wagner from Clemson at the top of the ACC record books. Wilken was power first from the get-go, slugging 17 homers as a freshman in 2019. The following summer, he hit the Cape and, like Matt Shaw, was named MVP of their summer league. Wilken posted a .299/.419/.679 slash line collegiately, including his record-breaking 71 HRs, 203 RBIs, and an 18.7% walk rate. As a Brewers’ farmhand, Wilken ascended to Double-A with good results. In 47 games, he hit .285 with 17 extra-base hits and a 20.6 walk rate.

Tools:

Wilken is a slugger in every sense, displaying light-tower power to his pull side while generating big EVs. The opposite field power is still developing, but Wilken is an easy 25+ homer bat. On the contrary, contact skills and swing decisions are fringy, and there is no speed to speak of. As an amateur, Wilken struggled with the breaking ball but did improve in his last NCAA season, finishing in the top 10 for walks in Division 1. Physically, his frame (6’4″and 225 lbs.) leaves little room for added mass. If he bulks up, I could see a scenario where Wilken moves across the diamond to the first base. As it stands, Wilken is serviceable at the hot corner, and scouts rate his arm as plus-plus.

Swing Mechanics:

Wilken has stiff legs in the box, making the most of his 6’4″ frame. His hands are next to his ear, and his bat rests on his back shoulder. There is no wasted motion as Wilken drives his front foot forward and pushes his hands into the zone.

Fantasy Outlook:

It’s not unrealistic that Wilken could see time in the big leagues in 2024, although likely towards the end of summer. He has significant upside in his profile, an easy top 10 asset at his position. The comparisons to Braves’ third baseman, Austin Riley, are premature, but Wilken has all the tools to make a significant fantasy impact.

 

10) Kyle Teel, C, BOS  

Overview:

The Red Sox have needed a true catcher of the future for many years but, instead, have been filling the position with short-term solutions. Enter University of Virginia backstop Kyle Teel. The reigning ACC Player of the Year and 2023 First Team All-American was selected with the 14th overall pick by the BoSox, ending their pattern of taking prep shortstops in the first round. At Virginia, Teel was a star on both sides of the ball, playing terrific defense behind the dish and posting impressive offensive numbers. In his three seasons, Teel hit .343 with 28 homers and a .980 OPS. In addition, he finished his career in the top 10 in school history in HRs, doubles, runs, batting average, and total bases. Teel played 26 professional games this summer, hitting .363 with two homers and three steals, reaching base at a .482 clip.

Tools:

Kyle Teel is a complete player in all phases of the game. Like most catchers, Teel is highly regarded for his baseball IQ and overall feel for the game. Hitting from the left side, Teel has an advanced approach and zone recognition, parlaying those skills into high on-base rates. He likely settles in as more of a hit-over-power guy, although he can do both. Teel is athletic, but his ability to run and steal bases is a non-factor at the next level. Defensively, Teel is good behind the plate and figures to stick.

Swing Mechanics:

Standing tall in the left-handed batters’ box, Teel bends his front leg while his back leg remains stiff. His hands are positioned up high, about six inches behind his head, with his back elbow parallel to the ground. As the pitcher delivers, Teel brings his lead knee towards his rear hip, and his hands drop to shoulder level. The front leg plants firmly into the ground, and his hips turn as his back leg bends just before contact.

Fantasy Outlook:

Never say never for 2024. Teel is a top prospect, and the Red Sox need an upgrade behind the plate. However, the ability to call games and handle pitching is always the deciding factor in catcher promotions, and I’d expect Teel to need the entire 2024 season to adjust. His best outcome is a high batting average with double-digit HRs, similar to the fantasy profile of Keibert Ruiz.

 

11) Colt Emerson, SS, SEA

Overview:

The third prep draftee is Mariners’ shortstop Colt Emerson, an 18-year-old from Ohio. Emerson, an Auburn commit, was selected 20th overall by the Seattle Mariners following a stellar high school career. As a senior, Emerson hit .446 with eight homers and a 1.013 slugging percentage for John Glenn HS, earning Gatorade Player of the Year honors. As a multi-sport star, Emerson has the work ethic and athleticism to justify a first-round selection, even as a projectable talent. As a member of the U18 National Team, Emerson had a .360 average and .515 on-base percentage in nine games started for Gold Medal-winning team USA. Making his professional debut, the Mariners assigned Emerson to Rookie Ball and then Low-A Modesto, where he played in 24 games with a .374/ .496/ .549 slash, adding two homers and eight steals.

Tools:

Standing 6’1″, 195lbs, Emerson is tall, lean, and strong. He makes frequent, hard contact at the plate, and while his power is still developing, it is most accessible from his pull side. Emerson isn’t flashy but figures to contribute to all five categories. As a defender, he is quick and agile with good mobility and a strong arm.

Swing Mechanics:

Emerson is jittery in the box, always moving ever so slightly. When he settles in, his body is upright with a slight bend of the knees. His hands are just behind his ear, with his bat resting on his back shoulder. As he loads, he compacts his body together, lifting his front foot and dropping his hands into the hitting position. At the point of contact, Emerson is well-balanced, with good rhythm and a sweet swing path.

Fantasy Outlook:

Emerson will not debut in 2024, and 2025 may be out of the question. He’s young and raw, and the Mariners will exercise patience. As a dynasty asset, Emerson is a top-100 prospect and is likely to rise. Keep an eye on Emerson; he is a star in the making.

 

12 Arjun Nimmala, SS, TOR 

Overview:

Nimmala is the exact type of upside you’re targeting at the end of the first round or the beginning of the second round in your FYPD. The Blue Jays first-round pick, 20th overall, is a 17-year-old prep shortstop from Tampa, Florida. Nimmala is a classic case of projectable talent with a future superstar upside. In his senior season at Strawberry Crest HS, Nimmala had a .479 average with six homers, 29 RBIs, 30 runs scored, and a .904 slugging percentage. After a previous commitment to play collegiately at Florida State, Nimmala signed with the Blue Jays on a $3M deal.

Tools:

Nimmala is very toolsy, especially on the offensive side. At 6’1″, 170lbs, his physical frame is still growing with room to add muscle and strength. His plate approach and pitch recognition will need adjustments, but the Blue Jays can afford to be patient with his development. Defensively, Nimmala is athletic and rangy, with plenty of arm strength to stick at shortstop long-term.

Swing Mechanics:

Nimmala has an athletic stance with his knees bent and hands ready to hit. As he begins his swing, he turns his front side inward, and in one motion, everything comes forward with strength and power. His right-handed swing is longer through the zone but has a unique, abbreviated finish. The bat finishes pointing straight to the sky, nearly at a 90-degree angle. The finish is similar but even more pronounced than you’d see from Mookie Betts.

Fantasy Outlook: 

Much like Emerson, Nimmala is not a 2024 contributor, and 2025 is bleak. There is significant risk/reward with Nimmala, but if everything pans out, a five-tool talent is possible. Projecting what Nimmala will become is difficult, but as a fantasy asset, I’d liken him to a better version of Willy Adames. He will offer plenty of power and production in the counting stats but with a higher batting average.

 

13) Aidan Miller, 3B, PHI  

Overview:

A run on prep infielders leads us to Aidan Miller, another top prospect from the State of Florida. The Phillies jumped on Miller, a third baseman, at pick 27, signing the one-time Arkansas commit to a $3.1M deal. He had a massive summer at a crucial time, winning MVP of the prospect game (4-5 with 3 RBIs) and the HR derby at the 2023 MLB All-Star Game. That performance wowed scouts after Miller missed most of his senior year due to a hand injury. If not for the hand injury, Miller may have been the top prep player off the board in the July draft. In a small professional sample, he hit .303 with two homers and four steals in 20 games.

Tools:

Miller has 30 home run/30 double upside and should maintain a batting average that won’t kill you. As with most prep hitters, the approach and swing decision will determine success, but Miller possesses the raw power to overcome any deficiencies and still produce at high levels. At 6’2″, 205lbs, Miller is not much of a base stealer despite swiping four in his professional debut. On the defensive side, Miller plays a solid third base but could move off the position as he gets bigger and stronger.

Swing Mechanics:

From the right side of the plate, Miller is perfectly balanced, with his knees bent and his body relaxed. His front elbow faces down at a 45-degree angle, while his back elbow points straight back. With no wasted motion, Miller lifts his front leg with a quiet but powerful thrust. He twists his hips around and explodes forward. His hands are lightning-fast through the zone, producing loud, hard contact.

Fantasy Outlook:

Miller will not be a fantasy contributor until 2025 at the earliest and impactful in fantasy until ’26. His floor is higher than the prep draftees, making Miller a comfortable pick in FYPD drafts. With 30/30 potential, Miller has a unique power-speed combination at third base that few can produce.

 

14) Nolan Schanuel, 1B, LAA

Overview:

Did you say 130 plate appearances before an FYPD draft? It’s rare for an FYPD-eligible player to get an extended Major League at-bats, but Angels’ first baseman Nolan Schanuel has done that and more. Less than six weeks after being selected 11th overall, the Angels promoted Schanuel to make his MLB debut. Schanuel was among the top collegiate bats in the draft pool after posting a .447 batting average with 19 home runs during his junior season at FAU. The Conference USA Player of the Year and unanimous First-Team All-American only played in 22 games before making the Show. Schanuel hit the ground running for the Angels, reaching base in all 29 MLB games he appeared in, tying Enos Slaughter for third-most all-time to start a career. Schanuel will have an opportunity to break Alvin Davis’ record of 47 games when the 2024 season begins. He finished with a .275 batting average, one home run, 19 RBIs, and a .402 on-base percentage. In addition, Schanuel walked 21 times compared to just 19 strikeouts.

Tools:

Schanuel has an advanced approach, evidenced by his elite walk rates and OBP. The power production is a concern, but Schanuel has impressive contact skills that should yield a .280+ batting average. The Angels did not give Schanuel many looks at left-handed pitching, opting to platoon him. That’s a scenario that will likely continue in 2024. Defensively, Schanuel is a long-term fit at first base, although scouts think he could move to a corner outfield position if needed.

Swing Mechanics:

His stance is unorthodox, with his hands reaching high above his head, eerily similar to his 2023 teammate Shohei Ohtani. Schanuel’s right heel is off the ground with his toes pointed downward. He’s quick to load, and his hands glide towards the ball. With his advanced hit tool, Schanuel can power the ball to his pull side or slap it the other way into the gap.

Fantasy Outlook:

Nolan Schanuel gave the Angels reason for optimism entering 2024. As part of a rebuilding club, Schanuel is the one FYPD player I can unequivocally say will contribute in 2024. He is a solid corner infield option in 15-team leagues (roto) and first base viable in AL-only leagues. His value gets a boost in points formats due to his high OBP numbers. The power may be inconsistent, but his bat should produce a consistent source of high batting average.

 

15) Tommy Troy, SS, ARI

Overview:

With the pick immediately after Schanuel, the Arizona Diamondbacks selected All-Pac 12 performer Stanford SS Tommy Troy 12th overall. Troy was a three-year starter for the Cardinal, hitting .338 with 79 extra-base hits in 162 games. He had an on-base percentage of .411 and slugged .603. As a junior in 2023, Troy had a .394 batting average, 17 HRs, 58 RBIs, 76 runs, a .478 OBP, a .699 SLG, and 17 stolen bases, all of which finished in the top 10 of his conference. Troy was the main offensive cog for Stanford, who repeated as Pac-12 Champions. Troy played 27 games in the Minors late this summer. In 96 at-bats, he hit .271 with four homers and nine steals at Rookie ball and High-A. He had a walk rate of 16.7% but struck out nearly 30% of the time, albeit in a small sample.

Tools:

The hit tool is above average, and he consistently makes solid contact. Troy has plenty of raw power that should translate well to the pro game. My main concern is his ability to hit the breaking ball at the next level, although he has a disciplined approach that does not chase. As a base runner, Troy has the ability and speed to be impactful with stolen bases but has been reluctant to run until recently.

Swing Mechanics:

Troy has a powerful right-handed stroke, aided by quick hands and a short, compact swing. At the time of the pitch, he has a noticeable leg kick but quickly gets his feet back into place to drive the ball. His hands start in the hitting position and have little movement as he powers toward the ball.

Fantasy Outlook:

Troy is at least a year away from contributing to the Majors. As a dynasty asset, Troy is a borderline top-100 prospect but could see a significant jump in 2024. For fantasy purposes, Troy has a fun profile that shows power and OBP with a respectable average. His impact on the bases is the wild card, as he has the speed to contribute, but will he have the desire to run?

 

16) Noble Meyer, SP, MIA

Overview:

Three years removed from Mick Abel’s selection by the Phillies, Jesuit HS (OR) produces another first-round pitching talent, right-hander Noble Meyer. The Marlins selected the 6’5″ prep standout with the 10th overall pick, adding another talented arm to their young core. Meyer is the top HS arm in the draft, easily outpacing his future teammate, Thomas White. Pitching in the Pacific Northwest, Meyer caught the eye of evaluators with his high-powered fastball and video game numbers. In 31 games pitched, Meyer struck out 128 hitters in 63 innings, allowing just 19 walks. He compiled a 10-1 record and a minuscule 0.33 ERA. Offensively, he posted a .373 average with five homers and 27 RBIs, being named the Gatorade Player of the Year.

Tools:

Meyer has all the makings of an ace. Despite his young age, he has an advanced feel for the game with an arsenal to exploit any hitter. The four-seam fastball sits in the upper 90s with a heavy sink, capable of missing bats in any count. His slider has double plus upside, characterized by high spin rates, incredible depth, and late bite. While the change-up is a work in progress, it has flashed brilliance in limited work. He is a tall, slender kid who could benefit from added muscle and weight to his frame. His mechanics are repeatable with an athletic finish.

Fantasy Outlook: 

At 18 years old, Meyer still has work to do before he can get to the Majors. Physically, he needs to grow into his frame and add strength. Developmentally, he will face challenges with advanced hitters, requiring him to adjust on the fly. Meyer is one to watch moving forward and is already a borderline Top-10 pitching prospect. Meyer has huge fantasy potential if he lands on a solid third offering.

 

17) Rhett Lowder, SP, CIN

Overview: 

The Reds farm system had a banner year, producing Elly De La Cruz, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, Matt McLain, Noelvi Marte, and Andrew Abbott to join their Major League roster. The rich got richer as the Reds selected RHP Rhett Lowder as the 7th overall pick. Lowder was the ace of the staff at Wake Forest, pitching the Demon Deacons to their first CWS berth in over 70 years. As a junior, Lowder set single-season school records for wins (15), strikeouts (143), and winning percentage (100%), repeating as the ACC Pitcher of the Year. His 1.87 ERA and 143 strikeouts ranked fourth in the NCAA, and he finished in the Top 10 in WHIP (0.95). He had seven scoreless outings with no walks and was part of six team shutouts. In addition to his accolades at Wake, Lowder pitched for the US Collegiate National Team. The Reds placed Lowder on the Developmental List after the July draft, keeping his workload at the 120 innings he threw in college.

Tools:

Lowder has a three-pitch mix, headlined by his mid-80s change-up. The change-up has an outstanding fade to both sides of the plate, serving as his main put-away pitch. A mid-90s fastball has a heavy sink, inducing frequent ground balls and soft contact. The slider has excellent depth but lacks a significant horizontal break. As a third offering, Lowder will need to rely on the slider more often than he has in the past. His wind-up has a pronounced rocking motion, while his delivery is smooth and effortless. Of all the pitchers in the FYPD class, Lowder joins Skenes as the most likely to succeed.

Fantasy Outlook:

The ballpark is less than ideal for Lowder, as Great American is not a pitcher-friendly environment. Utilizing his fastball to keep the ball on the ground is the key to his long-term outcome in Cincinnati. I like Lowder as a middle-of-the-rotation starter who contributes strikeouts, but his ERA and WHIP will fluctuate depending on luck, particularly GB rates and BABIP.

 

18) Cooper Pratt, 2B, MIL

Overview:

Pratt is a fast riser on my FYPD boards, especially after his selection in the 6th round, pick 182 overall by the Milwaukee Brewers. Coming out of Magnolia Heights HS (MS), Pratt was a two-way player who earned 2023 Gatorade Player of the Year honors. As a pitcher, Pratt was 10-0 with a razor-thin 0.14 ERA and 66 strikeouts in 49 innings. At the plate, he hit .469 with four homers and 38 steals, leading his team to their fifth consecutive State Championship. Pratt committed to play collegiately at Ole Miss, but the Brewers were able to sign him to a $1.35M deal, bringing his talents to the Midwest. After a quick cup of coffee at rookie ball to close out 2023, Pratt seems poised to start his 2024 in A-ball.

Tools:

Pratt is known for his hit tool and advanced approach at the plate. It’s tough to project where his power falls, but with added strength to his 6’4″ frame, I can see a path to 20 homers. On the base paths, Pratt is a good runner and has shown a desire to run, although as he adds bulk, that could change. Pratt played SS in high school and has seen time at 2B and shortstop in the Minors. In the long run, Pratt is athletic and has the arm strength to play on the left side of the diamond at SS or 3B.

Swing Mechanics:

From the right side, he stands with his feet just outside of shoulder width apart. At the beginning of his swing, he lifts his right knee, extends his front foot outward, and drives his hands through the zone. His stroke produces line drives all over the field with natural lift, although his power is mainly to his pull side.

Fantasy Outlook:

Pratt can flat-out hit, and good hitters play in fantasy. We are looking at late 2025 or early 2026 before he gets to the Majors. Once Pratt arrives, his tools will create an intriguing fantasy profile. As a prospect, Pratt will be a fast riser and get in the top 100 by the end of the season.

 

19) Chase Davis, OF, STL

Overview:

Davis may be the hardest to rank among the FYPD player pool. On draft day, the Cardinals received high marks for their selection of Davis, an outfielder from the University of Arizona who was selected 21st overall. In three years playing for the Wildcats, Davis hit .319 with 39 homers and a 1.088 OPS. He earned Pac-12 All-Conference honors and was a second-team All-American his junior season (2023). But, in the weeks following his selection by the Cardinals, Davis struggled mightily in the minors. With just 104 at-bats under his belt, Davis hit .212 with a 33% strikeout rate playing at Low-A Palm Beach.

Tools:

Davis has impressive tools, some of the best in the class. Davis is an outstanding athlete, capable of playing all three outfield positions, but figures to get an extended look in center field. Despite his athleticism, he offers no stolen base potential and will be a non-factor in that area moving forward.

Swing Mechanics:

From the left side, he stands with his front foot open and hands up behind his head. At the time of the pitch, he lifts his front foot, squares it with his shoulders, and drives his hands through the zone. For reference, imagine a carbon copy of former Rockies star Carlos González. His bat generates a ton of power to all fields with massive power upside. There are significant swing-and-miss concerns in his profile. Will Davis take steps to cut down his strikeouts and capitalize on his power?

Fantasy Outlook:

His initial Minor League performance sent panic through the prospect community, plummeting the perceived value of Davis. In many projections, Davis was a top 10 FYPD pick, while others in the industry placed him in the top 5. This fall is similar to what happened to Druw Jones and Elijah Green last season. Davis has the upside and talent to support being a top 5 FYPD player, but do the rewards outweigh the risks?

 

20) Brayden Taylor, SS, TBR  

Overview:

The TCU program had never produced a positional player selected in the first round of the MLB Draft. That all changed with Brayden Taylor, the 19th pick in 2023, chosen by the Rays. The 3-time All-Big 12 performer was a model of consistency for the TCU program. In his three seasons, Taylor had a .315 batting average with 48 homers and a .442 on-base percentage, aided by a 22.8% walk rate. As a senior, he tied a school record with 23 home runs and reached base safely in 61 of his 67 games. He also averaged 13 steals and 62 runs per year. As a pro, Taylor hit .242 with five homers and 11 steals in 25 games. His 37.3% strikeout rate is alarming, although he never struck out more than 23% collegiately.

Tools:

Brayden Taylor is the exact type of player that you’d expect to join the Tampa Bay Rays organization. He is a sure-handed, versatile infielder with solid bat-to-ball skills, capable of contributing in all offensive categories. Taylor was a baserunning threat at TCU despite having average footspeed. One thing to note is that Taylor has run early and often as a pro, going 11 for 11 on steal attempts.

Swing Mechanics:

From the left side, Taylor stands upright with a slight lean forward and his hands shoulder high. At the time of the pitch, Taylor performs a subtle lift with his front foot before loading his hands. He continues by placing his foot down and exploding his hands toward the ball. The swing is smooth and effortless, generating lightning-fast bat speed that drives the ball with authority to all fields.

Fantasy Outlook:

The Rays are going to be the Rays. Taylor will be part of a platoon at various points in his career, specifically if he struggles against LHP. Few players escape the platoon, but Taylor has the skill set to do so. If Taylor can post average splits against same-side pitching, he has the skills to be an All-Star caliber performer for the next decade.

 

21) Enrique Bradfield Jr., OF, BAL

Overview:

The Vanderbilt program has produced some elite talent over the past 15 years, namely Dansby Swanson, Walker Buehler, Bryan Reynolds, and David Price. This FYPD class has another Vanderbilt product, speedy outfielder Enrique Bradfield Jr. The Orioles selected Bradfield with the 17th overall pick, following a record-breaking career for the Commodores. As a three-year starter at Vandy, Bradfield garnered All-American honors each season, including being named the Freshman of the Year nationally in 2021. In three seasons, Bradfield stole a school record 130 bases, breaking the old mark of 96. He hit .311 with 15 homers and reached base at a .425 clip. But Bradfield is equally impactful on the defensive side of the ball as he is at the plate. A two-time SEC All-Defensive team selection, Bradfield drew comparisons to former Indians great Kenny Lofton.

Tools:

Speed is the name of the game for Bradfield. He is a dynamic stolen base threat and is menacing on the base paths. Bradfield averaged 43 steals per season collegiately, with 50+ steals within reach at the MLB level. With his 80-grade speed, Bradfield is an above-average centerfielder who overcomes below-average arm strength by cutting down balls into the gap and taking great routes to the ball. Bradfield has some pop in his bat, although it’s difficult to imagine more than 10-15 homers annually while maintaining a .250-ish batting average.

Swing Mechanics: 

At the plate, Bradfield stands slightly bent at the knees with his front hip turned in. As he starts his swing, he loads his hands, turns his front food inward, his hips turn out, and his knees bend further. At the point of contact, his body is compact but athletic. Once he makes contact, all bets are off. With his speed, Bradfield will beat out infield singles, bunt for base hits, and put immense pressure on defenders to make a play.

Fantasy Outlook:

Bradfield will go as far as his legs will take him. His sprint speed is legit, and the potential to exceed 50 steals is rare, even in a changing stolen base environment. Bradfield is a star defensively, and the combination of speed and elite defense will make him an everyday player. If the bat can perform at league average, the Orioles have a steal in Bradfield (no pun intended), and his profile is enticing for fantasy owners.

 

22) Dillon Head, OF, SDP

Overview:

Have you seen that Spiderman meme? Two Spidermen are pointing at each other, metaphorically saying, “Hey, you look like me!”. If you change out the two Spiderman figures and replace them with Enrique Bradfield Jr. and Dillon Head, the same desired result will be achieved. San Diego made Dillon Head the 25th player selected in the 2023 Draft, signing the one-time Clemson commit out of Flossmoor HS (IL). During his senior season, he had a .485 batting average with 18 extra-base hits and 31 steals, earning first-team All-State honors. Since joining Class-A, Head has made a solid first impression. In 105 professional at-bats, he hit .267 with one homer, four steals, and nearly as many walks (15) as strikeouts (19).

Tools:

Speed, speed, and more speed. Head is a burner and, like Bradfield, has an 80-grade run tool. His impact will be felt on the bases more than at the plate. As a hitter, he has an average hit tool and is more likely to be an extra-base hitter rather than employ power. As a centerfielder, Dillon Head will be an above-average defender who uses his speed and athleticism to take away hits and limit extra bases. Game-changing defenders will always see regular playing time and Head projects as just that.

Swing Mechanics:

Head stands tall from the left side, his knees slightly bent, and his hands near his head. His bat rests on his shoulder, with his front elbow pointed down and his back elbow out. As the pitch is delivered, Head lifts his front foot slightly before flushing his hands into the hitting zone.

Fantasy Outlook:

Head will be highly impactful on the bases, stealing bags at will. The question is how often he gets on base. The fantasy profile will resemble A’s outfielder Esteury Ruiz, although Head projects double-digit home run power. His ETA is 2026.

 

23) Walker Martin, SS, SFG

Overview:

We’ve reached the point of the FYPD draft where the “sure things” are gone, and you’re taking players based on projection. Walker Martin fits that mold. The Giants grabbed Walker Martin at pick 52 and signed him to a $3M signing bonus. Paying well over the slot, the Giants lured him away from his commitment to Arkansas. As a two-sport standout at Eaton HS (CO), Martin was the football team’s starting QB and the baseball team’s best player. As a senior, Martin posted monster offensive numbers in a hitter-friendly environment in Colorado. He belted 20 homers with a 1.632 slugging percentage and 75 RBIs. Eaton HS finished 29-0, winning their third consecutive state baseball championship.

Tools:

Martin is a terrific athlete. His thin build, standing 6’2″, 188 lbs., could benefit from adding additional muscle and strength. Being a dual-sport athlete, he has a competitive drive and displays a desire to be successful. Martin has quick hands and consistently barrels the ball. As a baserunner, he is average and could contribute some stolen bases down the road. As he matures physically, he projects to move to 3B and is an above-average defender.

Swing Mechanics:

Martin has an efficient and consistent swing for a prep player. He stands straight with his knees bent and his head still. His hands are in position with his elbows pointing down in an inverted “V”. When the swing begins, he subtly moves his front foot as he loads, and his head remains locked on the pitch. His bat is quick with a short, compact swing and a slight uppercut.

Fantasy Outlook:

San Francisco is a poor environment for left-handed power hitters. Martin has a line-drive swing and could frequent the spacious gaps in Oracle Park, giving him more optimism for success. A floor on Martin would be 15 homers with 30 doubles and a decent batting average. As the power develops, the projection should shift to be more favorable.

 

24) Thomas White, SP, MIA

Overview:

The Marlins selected Thomas White with the 35th pick in the Competitive Balance round in July, pairing him with Noble Meyer and securing the top two prep arms in the draft. White is an imposing left-hander, standing 6-foot-5 and 210 lbs. He concluded his career at Phillips Academy (MA) as a two-time Gatorade Player of the Year, finishing 11-2 with a sub-1.00 ERA over his final two seasons. The Marlins signed White to a $4.1M deal after he previously committed to playing collegiately at Vanderbilt.

Tools:

White has a smooth, effortless delivery, especially for his size. At times, White has lacked command and control, but his bat-missing ability is unquestioned. A mid-90s fastball has late explosion with arm-side run and is most effective up in the zone. His mid-70s curveball has a beautiful shape and high spin, challenging hitters with depth and sharp bite. White is developing a low-to-mid 80s change-up, his most promising off-speed pitch. The change-up has a good fade and runs away from hitters on both sides of the plate. White has a three-pitch mix, with all offerings having at least plus potential.

Fantasy Outlook:

White has all the tools but will need refining. His frame is well-built, and durability doesn’t appear to be a concern. The Marlins have an excellent track record of developing in-house talent, and White offers plenty of upside. He is a perfect 2nd round FYPD pick with the possibility of moving into the top 10 of pitching prospects in the future.

 

25) Jacob Wilson, SS, OAK

Overview:

Jacob Wilson looks to follow in the footsteps of his former All-Star father as he joins the Oakland A’s as the 6th overall pick. Wilson played collegiately at Grand Canyon University, setting the school record for single-season batting average (.411) with career marks of 224 hits and 155 RBIs.  Wilson is the only First-team All-American in the history of the program. But the most insane stat for Wilson is that he struck out 31 times in his career that spanned 620 at-bats. That’s a strikeout rate of 5%, which is a significant increase over his strikeout rate in his last two seasons at GCU, which was 2.7%. Defensively, Wilson was the 2023 WAC Defensive Player of the Year and named to the All-Defensive Team on two occasions.

Tools:

Wilson has a 70-grade hit tool, evidenced by his low strikeout rates and robust batting average. He has an advanced feel for the zone and elite pitch recognition and makes above-average swing decisions. Like his father, Jack, Wilson is not a slugger and will offer little power. In addition, Wilson is a below-average runner and projects no stolen base potential. Defensively, he is above average, and with his plus hit tool, he projects as an everyday MLB player.

Swing Mechanics:

Pre-pitch, Wilson is upright with stiff legs, his hands near his back shoulder, and his bat resting. Once he settles in, he has a slight bounce in his body, an apparent timing mechanism. As the pitcher starts their delivery, Wilson bends his knees significantly, crouching down as part of his load. When the swing begins, he torques his body inward and opens up toward the ball. He finishes his swing balanced and athletic, ready to hustle out of the box.

Fantasy Outlook: 

Wilson is a better real-life player than a fantasy player. Oakland’s team context is unfavorable, and the park is even worse. Since he is not a power bat, Wilson has mild fantasy appeal in OBP/batting average leagues or AL-only leagues. However, as an elite defender, Wilson is a lock for regular playing time with consistent at-bats.

 

Photos by Icon Sportswire | Adapted by Justin Redler (@reldernitsuj on Twitter)