Miami Marlins Wiretap

Miami Marlins pitching prospect Robby Snelling will undergo Tommy John surgery Friday to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his left elbow, ending his season just days after his major league debut, the team announced Thursday.

Snelling, Miami's No. 2 prospect, threw five solid innings in his debut against Washington on May 8 before reporting elbow discomfort following a bullpen session. He was placed on the 60-day injured list after a UCL sprain diagnosis. The 22-year-old met with Dr. Keith Meister on Thursday and elected to proceed with reconstructive surgery. A recovery timeline will be provided after Friday's procedure.

"Disappointing for him and us," said manager Clayton McCullough. "That's an unfortunate part of our industry. Guys go down. We just keep going, and Robby will come back from this a stronger person."

McCullough indicated the club will audition multiple pitchers for the vacant fifth rotation spot. Braxton Garrett, recently optioned to Triple-A Jacksonville, and reliever Tyler Phillips, who has posted 27 strikeouts across 30 innings this season, are among the candidates.

"Guys will have chances to step into that spot and have a chance to perform here," said McCullough.

Miami originally acquired Snelling from San Diego in July 2024 in exchange for reliever Tanner Scott.

With nearly two months of the 2026 season complete, 22 players from the preseason MLB top 100 prospect list have graduated from eligibility, reshuffling the rankings ahead of what figures to be an active trade deadline season.

Milwaukee Brewers shortstop Jesus Made, 19, moves to the top spot after posting 90th percentile exit velocities that rank among big league averages despite playing in Double-A. His ability to control the strike zone and his defensive profile stand out, though scouts note his swing produces insufficient lift to translate his raw power into home run totals. If that changes in the second half, a significant ranking jump could follow.

Among the most notable movers is Boston Red Sox shortstop Franklin Arias, who climbs from 36th to sixth after posting improved exit velocity and lift rates while maintaining contact. Athletics shortstop Leo De Vries jumps to second after his profile helped pry All-Star closer Mason Miller from Oakland. Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Seth Hernandez rises from 49th to seventh after slider and fastball shape improvements unlocked his ceiling.

Notable graduates from the list include the previous top two prospects, Konnor Griffin and Kevin McGonigle, along with Samuel Basallo, JJ Wetherholt, Bubba Chandler, Carson Benge, Andrew Painter, and Carson Williams, among others.

Seven players currently on active big league rosters remain eligible but could graduate within weeks.

Top-50 MLB Prospects

60FV
1. Jesus Made, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (Previous: 3)
2. Leo De Vries, SS, Athletics (Previous: 11)
3. Colt Emerson, SS, Seattle Mariners (Previous: 6)
4. Max Clark, CF, Detroit Tigers (Previous: 8)
5. Sebastian Walcott, SS, Texas Rangers (Previous: 5)
6. Franklin Arias, SS, Boston Red Sox (Previous: 36)
7. Seth Hernandez, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates (Previous: 49)
8. Eli Willits, SS, Washington Nationals (Previous: 41)
9. Kade Anderson, LHP, Seattle Mariners (Previous: 16)
10. George Lombard Jr., SS, New York Yankees (Previous: 20)
11. Travis Bazzana, 2B, Cleveland Guardians (Previous: 23)
12. Walker Jenkins, CF, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 9)
13. Trey Yesavage, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays (Previous: 14)
14. A.J. Ewing, CF, New York Mets (Previous: 28)
15. Rainiel Rodriguez, C, St. Louis Cardinals (Previous: 19)
16. Aidan Miller, SS, Philadelphia Phillies (Previous: 10)
17. Ryan Sloan, RHP, Seattle Mariners (Previous: 24)

55 FV
18. Josue De Paula, LF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 21)
19. Josuar Gonzalez, SS, San Francisco Giants (Previous: 30)
20. Ethan Salas, C, San Diego Padres (Previous: 110)
21. Ryan Waldschmidt, CF, Arizona Diamondbacks (Previous: 63)
22. Thomas White, LHP, Miami Marlins (Previous: 18)
23. Alfredo Duno, C, Cincinnati Reds (Previous: 29)
24. Connor Prielipp, LHP, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 54)
25. Caleb Bonemer, 3B, Chicago White Sox (Previous: 34)
26. Luis Pena, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (Previous: 26)
27. Ethan Holliday, SS, Colorado Rockies (Previous: 66)
28. Liam Doyle, LHP, St. Louis Cardinals (Previous: 50)
29. Tyler Bremner, RHP, Los Angeles Angels (Previous: 56)
30. Theo Gillen, CF, Tampa Bay Rays (Previous: 92)
31. Ralphy Velazquez, 1B, Cleveland Guardians (Previous: 33)
32. Jett Williams, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (Previous: 32)
33. JoJo Parker, SS, Toronto Blue Jays (Previous: 52)
34. Zyhir Hope, RF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 40)

50 FV
35. Cam Caminiti, LHP, Atlanta Braves (Previous: 53)
36. Jonah Tong, RHP, New York Mets (Previous: 31)
37. Noah Schultz, LHP, Chicago White Sox (Previous: 96)
38. Kaelen Culpepper, SS, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 79)
39. Angel Genao, SS, Cleveland Guardians (Previous: 80)
40. Gage Jump, LHP, Athletics (Previous: 42)
41. Jhonny Level, SS, San Francisco Giants (Previous: 84)
42. Emmanuel Rodriguez, CF, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 97)
43. Josh Hammond, SS, Kansas City Royals (Previous: 132)
44. Edward Florentino, CF, Pittsburgh Pirates (Previous: 78)
45. Eduardo Quintero, CF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 37)
46. Anthony Eyanson, RHP, Boston Red Sox (Previous: NR)
47. Eduardo Tait, C, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 38)
48. Didier Fuentes, RHP, Atlanta Braves (Previous: 88)
49. River Ryan, RHP, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 125)
50. Jamie Arnold, LHP, Athletics (Previous: 60)

Monday’s series opener will be broadcast locally on Cardinals.TV (St. Louis feed) and Marlins.TV (Miami feed). First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The St. Louis Cardinals (13-8) travel to Miami this Monday, April 20, riding a wave of momentum after a historic sweep of the Houston Astros. The Cardinals have proven to be extra-inning specialists early in the 2026 season, currently holding a perfect 5-0 record in games decided beyond the ninth inning. They face a young Miami Marlins (10-12) squad that has been formidable at home with an 8-5 record at loanDepot park.

Expect a focused effort from the Cardinals' lineup, particularly Jordan Walker, who enters tonight on a 14-game hitting streak and leads the team with eight home runs. Miami counters with defensive specialist Otto Lopez and power-hitting catcher Liam Hicks, who has already cleared the fence four times this month. Catch every strikeout and highlight live on Fubo.

The pitching duel features two right-handers looking to establish early dominance. St. Louis turns to Michael McGreevy (1-1), who has posted an elite 0.83 WHIP and a steady 2.49 ERA through the first few weeks of the season. He faces Miami's Max Meyer (1-0), a strikeout artist who has already fanned 20 batters in 19.2 innings. You can witness this National League battle streaming live on Fubo.

The key storyline for the Cardinals is their road resilience; they are 6-3 away from Busch Stadium and have consistently found ways to manufacture runs late. For Miami, the focus is on containing the red-hot Masyn Winn, who recently drove in seven runs in a single series. If the Marlins can prevent the long ball, they are in a prime position to end the Cardinals' winning streak. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Cardinals vs. Marlins Betting Odds & Predictions

The Marlins enter the series opener as slight favorites at home. Despite the Cardinals' better record, oddsmakers are respecting Miami's efficiency at loanDepot park and Max Meyer's ability to navigate high-power lineups.

Prediction: Michael McGreevy has shown superior control early in the season, and the Cardinals' offense is currently performing at an elite level. While Miami is tough at home, St. Louis' momentum is difficult to ignore. Final Score: Cardinals 5, Marlins 3.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The marquee matchup features the 14-game hitting streak of Jordan Walker against the deceptive slider of Max Meyer. Walker’s power will be a major test for the young Marlins starter.

*Season record/hitting stats current through April 20.

Miami relies on the breakout performance of Liam Hicks and the veteran contact hitting of Otto Lopez to anchor a lineup that has been surprisingly resilient in 2026.

*Stats over last 10 games.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like Cardinals.TV and Marlins.TV, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Cardinals or Marlins.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Cardinals as they aim for another deep postseason run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Monday’s divisional clash will be broadcast locally on BravesVsn (Braves feed) and available via MLB.TV for out-of-market fans. First pitch is scheduled for 7:15 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The Atlanta Braves (10-6) look to maintain their hold on first place in the NL East this Monday, April 13, as they host the Miami Marlins (8-8) at Truist Park. Atlanta enters the series with momentum after a strong homestand, while Miami is looking to find its footing on the road, where they have struggled to a 1-5 start this season.

Atlanta’s offense is currently firing on all cylinders, led by Austin Riley and Ronald Acuña Jr., both of whom have been consistent threats at the plate. A surprising spark has also come from Jorge Mateo, who is coming off a massive four-hit performance. Miami counters with young ace Eury Perez, who looks to overcome a rocky start to the season and silence the potent Braves bats. Catch every inning live on Fubo.

The individual matchups are highlighted by the power of Atlanta’s veterans against Miami’s young rotation. While the Marlins have dealt with significant injuries to their lineup, their ability to hang in close games has kept them at .500. For Atlanta, the key will be Grant Holmes (RHP), who has been a revelation in the rotation with a steady 2.55 ERA. You can witness this NL East clash streaming live on Fubo.

Miami’s ability to navigate Truist Park without several key pieces—including Christopher Morel and Esteury Ruiz—will be the primary storyline. If the Marlins' bullpen can preserve a lead for Perez, they could pull off the road upset. Conversely, if the Braves' lineup continues its "A-list" production, it could be a long night for the Fish. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Marlins vs. Braves Betting Odds & Predictions

The Braves enter as comfortable favorites at home. Given their division-leading record and Miami's historical struggles away from LoanDepot Park, the moneyline reflects strong confidence in an Atlanta victory.

Prediction: Grant Holmes has shown incredible poise to start 2026, and against an injury-riddled Marlins lineup, he should find plenty of success. Expect Acuña and Riley to provide the run support needed to secure the series opener. Final Score: Braves 6, Marlins 3.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The marquee matchup features the elite speed and power of Ronald Acuña Jr. against the high-velocity arsenal of Eury Perez. Acuña’s ability to disrupt on the basepaths remains a nightmare for opposing pitchers.

Miami relies on Eury Perez to be a stopper in the rotation, supported by a lineup that, while thin, has seen surprising production from its bench depth.

*Season record and ERA.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like BravesVsn, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Marlins or Braves.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Braves as they aim for another division title.

Frequently Asked Questions

Major League Baseball's average salary climbed 3.4% to a record $5.34 million on Opening Day, according to an Associated Press study, with the New York Mets topping league payrolls for the fourth consecutive year at $352.2 million.

Mets outfielder Juan Soto remains the sport's highest-paid player for the second straight season at $61.9 million annually, placing him among the highest-compensated athletes across all major North American professional sports. New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger ranks second at $42.5 million, followed by Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler and Mets third baseman Bo Bichette, who are tied at $42 million. Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. sits fifth at $40.2 million, just ahead of Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge at $40 million.

Across sports, the top of the market is converging. Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott carries an average annual value of approximately $60 million in the NFL, while Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry earns $59.6 million in the NBA this season, putting all three leagues within a narrow range at the very top of the pay scale.

The broader salary picture, however, differs considerably by sport. The NBA's average salary for roster players sits just under $14 million during the 2025-26 season, driven by smaller rosters that concentrate league revenue among fewer players. The NFL average was approximately $3.2 million in 2025, reflecting the league's significantly larger rosters. MLB's $5.34 million average falls between the two, though roster sizes in baseball and football are substantially larger than in basketball.

The Los Angeles Dodgers ranked second in MLB payroll at $316.6 million, down slightly from $319.5 million last year. Their figure would rise to $395.2 million without present-value discounting applied to deferred contracts for nine players.

MLB's average salary has grown 28 percent under the current five-year collective bargaining agreement, which expires in December, an average annual increase of 5.6%. Six clubs carried payrolls above $250 million, up from four a year ago, while eight teams fell below $100 million, an increase from five.

The Detroit Tigers posted the largest year-over-year spending increase at $64.2 million, reaching $206.7 million after signing pitcher Framber Valdez and giving a significant raise to ace Tarik Skubal through arbitration. The Minnesota Twins recorded the steepest decline, slashing $46.3 million from its Opening Day payroll to settle at $96.5 million.

The Cleveland Guardians were the MLB's lowest-spending team at $62.3 million, less than one-fifth of the Mets' total outlay.

Friday’s Home Opener will be broadcast locally on YES Network (Yankees feed) and CBS Miami (Marlins feed), with national coverage available on MLB Network. First pitch is scheduled for 1:35 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

Baseball returns to the Bronx this Friday, April 3, as the New York Yankees host the Miami Marlins for their highly anticipated 2026 Home Opener at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees are looking to build on a scorching start to the season, while the Marlins arrive in New York intent on playing spoiler in one of the most electric atmospheres in sports. 

The energy in New York will be unmatched as the Bronx Bombers showcase their powerhouse roster. After a successful road trip to start the year, the Yankees are ready to unleash their offense in front of the home crowd. Meanwhile, Miami’s young, high-upside rotation will face the ultimate test against a lineup stacked with MVP-caliber talent. Catch every pitch and every home run live on Fubo. 

The star power in this matchup is legendary. The Yankees are led by reigning MVP Aaron Judge, who coming off a historic 53-home run season, and the dynamic Jazz Chisholm Jr., facing his former team for the first time in a Bronx Home Opener. Miami counters with the contact hitting of Xavier Edwards and the power of Kyle Stowers, both looking to take advantage of the short porch in right field.

The pitching duel is set to be a classic, with New York's new ace Max Fried projected to take the hill for the opener. You can witness this inter-league clash streaming live on Fubo.

Miami’s ability to navigate the Yankees' heavy hitters will be vital, especially with the short dimensions of Yankee Stadium coming into play. New York will look to capitalize on their home-field advantage to secure an early-season statement win. With the sights and sounds of Opening Day in the air, this is a matchup no fan should miss. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Marlins vs. Yankees Betting Odds & Predictions

The Yankees enter as strong home favorites, reflecting their status as elite AL contenders and their dominance at Yankee Stadium. However, the Marlins have historically been scrappy road underdogs, making the run line a point of interest for many bettors.

Prediction: While Miami's pitching can keep them in the game early, the Yankees' offensive depth and the Home Opener adrenaline will likely be too much to overcome. Expect Aaron Judge to find the seats at least once. Final Score: Yankees 6, Marlins 3.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Sluggers

The marquee matchup features the power of Aaron Judge against the Marlins' rotation. All eyes will also be on Jazz Chisholm Jr. as he looks to make a statement against his former club.

Miami relies on the elite contact of Xavier Edwards and the high-upside power of Kyle Stowers to drive their offense.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like YES, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Yankees or Marlins.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Yankees as they chase title number 28.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yahoo Sports has released its annual 26-and-under organizational power rankings, evaluating all 30 MLB clubs on their young major league contributors and upper-level prospects. The Milwaukee Brewers claimed the top spot with a score of 22 out of 30, while the Colorado Rockies and San Diego Padres shared the bottom at nine points.

The rankings weight productive young big leaguers more heavily than unproven minor leaguers, with scores distributed across four categories: young MLB hitters, young MLB pitchers, prospect hitters, and prospect pitchers.

Milwaukee earned the crown behind outfielder Jackson Chourio, a deep young pitching staff led by Jacob Misiorowski and Quinn Priester, and a loaded prospect pool headlined by shortstop Jesus Made and catcher Jeferson Quero.

The Seattle Mariners ranked second at 21 points, driven by outfielder Julio Rodriguez and right-hander Bryan Woo. The Pittsburgh Pirates placed third at 18 points, earning a perfect 10-out-of-10 score for young MLB pitchers anchored by Paul Skenes.

The Boston Red Sox suffered the sharpest drop in this cycle, falling from first in 2025 to 11th. Despite an impressive young hitting core featuring Roman Anthony and Marcelo Mayer, Boston's pitching depth dragged its overall score to 16.

The Baltimore Orioles dropped from second to seventh despite Gunnar Henderson's continued emergence. Their young pitching staff scored just one out of ten, reflecting significant rotation concerns.

San Diego's fall from 15th to 29th was equally dramatic. The Padres' young core is nearly entirely dependent on outfielder Jackson Merrill, with limited depth elsewhere.

The Kansas City Royals earned a perfect 10-out-of-10 for young MLB hitters, powered by Bobby Witt Jr., yet ranked ninth overall due to thin pitching across both categories.

Full 26-And-Under Rankings:

1. Milwaukee Brewers: 22/30
2. Seattle Mariners: 21/30
3. Pittsburgh Pirates: 18/30
4. Athletics: 18/30
5. Cincinnati Reds: 18/30
6. New York Mets: 18/30
7. Baltimore Orioles: 16/30
8. Arizona Diamondbacks: 16/30
9. Kansas City Royals: 16/30
10. Detroit Tigers: 16/30
11. Boston Red Sox: 16/30
12. Los Angeles Dodgers: 16/30
13. Cleveland Guardians: 16/30
14. Miami Marlins: 16/30
15. St. Louis Cardinals: 16/30
16. Chicago Cubs: 15/30
17. Washington Nationals: 15/30
18. Chicago White Sox: 15/30
19. New York Yankees: 15/30
20. Atlanta Braves: 14/30
21. Tampa Bay Rays: 14/30
22. Texas Rangers: 14/30
23. Minnesota Twins: 13/30
24. Toronto Blue Jays: 12/30
25. Los Angeles Angels: 12/30
26. Philadelphia Phillies: 10/30
27. Houston Astros: 10/30
28. San Francisco Giants: 9/30
29. San Diego Padres: 9/30
30. Colorado Rockies: 9/30

Major League Baseball franchise values climbed 12% on average to $3.17 billion, marking the largest year-over-year gain since Sportico launched its baseball valuations in 2021. The rise comes despite mounting concerns over revenue disparity, regional sports network struggles and a potential labor stoppage that some warn could threaten the 2027 season.

The New York Yankees retained the top spot for the sixth consecutive year at $9.4 billion. The Los Angeles Dodgers narrowed the gap significantly, rising 17% to $9.05 billion. The Yankees held a 46% premium over the Dodgers in 2021; that margin has shrunk to just 4%.

The Dodgers generated $1.1 billion in gross revenue last year — a threshold previously reached only by the NFL's Dallas Cowboys and LaLiga's Real Madrid. Shohei Ohtani, a two-time NL MVP who led the club to back-to-back World Series titles, has driven sponsorship revenue above $200 million. Dodger Stadium drew a franchise-record 4,012,470 fans in 2025.

The Toronto Blue Jays, who fell to the Dodgers in the World Series, saw their value jump 21% to $2.9 billion following a $300 million renovation of Rogers Centre.

The San Diego Padres represent baseball's most anticipated pending sale. Multiple billionaires have submitted initial bids, including Clearlake Capital co-founder Jose E. Feliciano, Everton and AS Roma owner Dan Friedkin and Golden State Warriors managing partner Joe Lacob. The team is expected to fetch more than $3 billion.

MLB's 30 clubs collectively generated an estimated $13.1 billion last year. Local cable revenue dropped roughly 10% amid ongoing regional sports network turmoil. Despite overall growth, MLB's value-to-revenue multiple of 7.2x still trails the NBA (13.5x), NFL (10.3x), MLS (9.2x) and NHL (8.4x).

2026 MLB Franchise Valuations via Sportico

1. New York Yankees: $9.4B (+12%)
2. Los Angeles Dodgers: $9.05B (+17%)
3. Boston Red Sox: $6.65B (+10%)
4. Chicago Cubs: $6.48B (+14%)
5. San Francisco Giants: $4.36B (+4%)
6. Atlanta Braves: $4.11B (+11%)
7. Philadelphia Phillies: $3.75B (+11%)
8. Houston Astros: $3.65B (+7%)
9. New York Mets: $3.58B (+15%)
10. San Diego Padres: $3.1B (+34%)
11. St. Louis Cardinals: $3.03B (+7%)
12. Toronto Blue Jays: $2.9B (+21%)
13. Los Angeles Angels: $2.78B (+7%)
14. Texas Rangers: $2.77B (+12%)
15. Washington Nationals: $2.31B (+3%)
16. Seattle Mariners: $2.23B (+14%)
17. Detroit Tigers: $2.08B (+20%)
18. Chicago White Sox: $2.05B (+1%)
19. Athletics: $2.0B (+27%)
20. Milwaukee Brewers: $1.94B (+19%)
21. Baltimore Orioles: $1.91B (+5%)
22. Arizona Diamondbacks: $1.82B (+18%)
23. Minnesota Twins: $1.71B (+1%)
24. Tampa Bay Rays: $1.7B (+26%)
25. Colorado Rockies: $1.68B (+13%)
26. Cincinnati Reds: $1.67B (+8%)
27. Cleveland Guardians: $1.64B (+7%)
28. Kansas City Royals: $1.63B (+20%)
29. Pittsburgh Pirates: $1.58B (+14%)
30. Miami Marlins: $1.45B (+12%)

Right-hander Chris Paddack and the Miami Marlins agreed to a one-year, $4 million deal, sources told ESPN's Jeff Passan.

Paddack can earn an additional $500,000 in performance bonuses.

Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Konnor Griffin has been named baseball's top prospect for 2026 by ESPN, leading a list heavily dominated by position players. The 19-year-old stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 225 pounds while demonstrating elite athleticism and skills across all aspects of the game.

Griffin represents the best prospect baseball has seen in several years according to ESPN's evaluation. He was selected ninth overall in the 2024 draft after ranking seventh in a tightly packed top tier of prospects during the pre-draft process.

Detroit Tigers shortstop Kevin McGonigle ranks second despite not being selected in the first round of his high school draft. The 21-year-old left-handed hitter went 37th overall but received the 31st-highest bonus, dramatically exceeding expectations since signing.

Milwaukee Brewers shortstop Jesus Made claims third position at age 18. The switch-hitting prospect measures 6-foot-1 and 187 pounds while projecting as a potential superstar with five plus tools by the end of his minor league development.

Baltimore Orioles catcher Samuel Basallo ranks fourth on ESPN's list, jumping ahead of several highly-touted shortstops. The 21-year-old left-handed hitter recently signed an eight-year extension after making his major league debut.

Texas Rangers shortstop Sebastian Walcott occupies fifth position at age 19. The Bahamas native has filled out his 6-foot-4 frame with massive physical tools including plus-plus power projection and enough quickness to potentially stick at shortstop long term.

Seattle Mariners shortstop Colt Emerson ranks sixth on the list. The 20-year-old left-handed hitter has improved defensively at shortstop while projecting for 20 annual home runs with above-average contact and on-base skills.

St. Louis Cardinals shortstop JJ Wetherholt and Detroit Tigers center fielder Max Clark occupy seventh and eighth positions respectively. Minnesota Twins center fielder Walker Jenkins ranks ninth despite durability concerns that have plagued his professional career.

Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Aidan Miller rounds out the top 10. The 22-year-old right-handed hitter stole 59 bases last season while demonstrating above-average to plus speed on the basepaths and 25-home run potential.

Position players account for the top 11 spots on ESPN's rankings, reflecting current trends in minor league baseball. Pitchers are experiencing injuries at elevated rates while producing less value due to reduced innings totals and modern workload management strategies.

Pirates right-handed pitcher Bubba Chandler ranks as the highest pitcher at 12th overall. New York Mets right-hander Nolan McLean follows at 13th, with Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Trey Yesavage claiming 14th position.

The rankings emphasize future potential rather than recent performance alone. ESPN's evaluation process incorporates statistical analysis, live scouting, video review, and extensive conversations with scouts and analysts to project player development trajectories over multiple years.

The Los Angeles Dodgers lead all organizations with six players in the top 100. The Dodgers' representatives include Eduardo Quintero, Josue De Paula, Zyhir Hope, Mike Sirota, Emil Morales, and Alex Freeland scattered throughout the rankings.

The Mariners and Brewers each place multiple prospects on the list, demonstrating strong organizational depth. The Mariners' group includes Colt Emerson, Kade Anderson, Ryan Sloan, Michael Arroyo, Lazaro Montes, Felnin Celesten, and Jonny Farmelo.

Players must retain Rookie of the Year eligibility for 2026 to qualify for the rankings. The list excludes players with experience in Japanese or Korean professional leagues and international free agents who signed in January 2026.

Griffin addressed swing issues immediately in his first professional season while demonstrating clear shortstop capabilities. He dominated both Single-A levels and Double-A as a teenager, representing at least a 95th-percentile developmental outcome for prospects from the 2024 draft class.

ESPN evaluators consider Griffin the top prospect in baseball by a significant margin. The publication nearly placed him in the 70 FV tier, which represents expectations of MVP ballot appearances with five-plus WAR seasons annually.

The Pirates could potentially start Griffin at shortstop for opening day 2026. Teams typically bring superstars to the majors ahead of schedule, as Juan Soto demonstrated by playing just 122 career minor league games before his teenage debut with Washington.

Griffin joins pitcher Paul Skenes and Bubba Chandler as cornerstone prospects capable of electrifying Pittsburgh. The combination of elite talent suggests the franchise could experience significant competitive improvement in coming seasons after years of struggles.

ESPN's TOP 100 MLB PROSPECTS:

1. Konnor Griffin, SS/CF, Pittsburgh Pirates (Age: 19)
2. Kevin McGonigle, SS, Detroit Tigers (Age: 21)
3. Jesus Made, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (Age: 18)
4. Samuel Basallo, C/1B, Baltimore Orioles (Age: 21)
5. Sebastian Walcott, SS/3B, Texas Rangers (Age: 20)
6. Colt Emerson, SS, Seattle Mariners (Age: 20)
7. JJ Wetherholt, SS, St. Louis Cardinals (Age: 23)
8. Max Clark, CF, Detroit Tigers (Age: 21)
9. Walker Jenkins, CF, Minnesota Twins (Age: 20)
10. Aidan Miller, SS, Philadelphia Phillies (Age: 21)
11. Leo De Vries, SS, Athletics (Age: 19)
12. Bubba Chandler, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates (Age: 23)
13. Nolan McLean, RHP, New York Mets (Age: 24)
14. Trey Yesavage, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays (Age: 22)
15. Carson Benge, OF, New York Mets (Age: 23)
16. Kade Anderson, LHP, Seattle Mariners (Age: 21)
17. Sal Stewart, 3B/1B, Cincinnati Reds (Age: 22)
18. Thomas White, LHP, Miami Marlins (Age: 21)
19. Rainiel Rodriguez, C, St. Louis Cardinals (Age: 19)
20. George Lombard Jr., SS, New York Yankees (Age: 20)
21. Josue De Paula, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Age: 20)
22. Payton Tolle, LHP, Boston Red Sox (Age: 23)
23. Travis Bazzana, 2B, Cleveland Guardians (Age: 23)
24. Ryan Sloan, RHP, Seattle Mariners (Age: 20)
25. Carter Jensen, C, Kansas City Royals (Age: 22)
26. Luis Pena, SS/2B, Milwaukee Brewers (Age: 19)
27. Andrew Painter, RHP, Philadelphia Phillies (Age: 22)
28. A.J. Ewing, CF, New York Mets (Age: 21)
29. Alfredo Duno, C, Cincinnati Reds (Age: 20)
30. Josuar Gonzalez, SS, San Francisco Giants (Age: 18)
31. Jonah Tong, RHP, New York Mets (Age: 22)
32. Jett Williams, SS/CF, Milwaukee Brewers (Age: 22)
33. Ralphy Velazquez, 1B, Cleveland Guardians (Age: 20)
34. Caleb Bonemer, SS/3B, Chicago White Sox (Age: 20)
35. Bryce Rainer, SS, Detroit Tigers (Age: 20)
36. Franklin Arias, SS, Boston Red Sox (Age: 20)
37. Eduardo Quintero, CF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Age: 20)
38. Eduardo Tait, C, Minnesota Twins (Age: 19)
39. Carson Williams, SS, Tampa Bay Rays (Age: 22)
40. Zyhir Hope, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Age: 21)
41. Eli Willits, SS, Washington Nationals (Age: 18)
42. Gage Jump, LHP, Athletics (Age: 22)
43. Chase DeLauter, OF, Cleveland Guardians (Age: 24)
44. Josue Briceno, 1B/C, Detroit Tigers (Age: 21)
45. Parker Messick, LHP, Cleveland Guardians (Age: 25)
46. Trey Gibson, RHP, Baltimore Orioles (Age: 23)
47. Robby Snelling, LHP, Miami Marlins (Age: 22)
48. Connelly Early, LHP, Boston Red Sox (Age: 23)
49. Seth Hernandez, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates (Age: 19)
50. Liam Doyle, LHP, St. Louis Cardinals (Age: 21)
51. Moises Ballesteros, C/1B, Chicago Cubs (Age: 22)
52. JoJo Parker, SS, Toronto Blue Jays (Age: 19)
53. Cam Caminiti, LHP, Atlanta (Age: 19)
54. Connor Prielipp, LHP, Minnesota Twins (Age: 25)
55. Mike Sirota, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Age: 22)
56. Tyler Bremner, RHP, Los Angeles Angels (Age: 21)
57. Dylan Beavers, RF, Baltimore Orioles (Age: 24)
58. Travis Sykora, RHP, Washington Nationals (Age: 21)
59. Bryce Eldridge, 1B, San Francisco Giants (Age: 21)
60. Jamie Arnold, LHP, Athletics (Age: 21)
61. Joe Mack, C, Miami Marlins (Age: 23)
62. Michael Arroyo, 2B/SS, Seattle Mariners (Age: 21)
63. Ryan Waldschmidt, OF, Arizona Diamondbacks (Age: 23)
64. Logan Henderson, RHP, Milwaukee Brewers (Age: 23)
65. Emil Morales, SS, Los Angeles Dodgers (Age: 19)
66. Ethan Holliday, SS, Colorado Rockies (Age: 18)
67. Kyson Witherspoon, RHP, Boston Red Sox (Age: 21)
68. Khal Stephen, RHP, Cleveland Guardians (Age: 23)
69. Justin Crawford, OF, Philadelphia Phillies (Age: 22)
70. Cooper Pratt, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (Age: 21)
71. Braylon Doughty, RHP, Cleveland Guardians (Age: 20)
72. Rhett Lowder, RHP, Cincinnati Reds (Age: 23)
73. Brandon Sproat, RHP, Milwaukee Brewers (Age: 25)
74. Jarlin Susana, RHP, Washington Nationals (Age: 21)
75. Jeferson Quero, C, Milwaukee Brewers (Age: 23)
76. Arjun Nimmala, SS, Toronto Blue Jays (Age: 20)
77. Owen Caissie, RF, Miami Marlins (Age: 23)
78. Edward Florentino, OF, Pittsburgh Pirates (Age: 19)
79. Kaelen Culpepper, SS, Minnesota Twins (Age: 23)
80. Angel Genao, SS, Cleveland Guardians (Age: 21)
81. Jacob Melton, CF, Tampa Bay Rays (Age: 25)
82. Harry Ford, C, Washington Nationals (Age: 22)
83. Jaxon Wiggins, RHP, Chicago Cubs (Age: 24)
84. Jhonny Level, SS, San Francisco Giants (Age: 18)
85. Johnny King, LHP, Toronto Blue Jays (Age: 19)
86. Brody Hopkins, RHP, Tampa Bay Rays (Age: 24)
87. Elmer Rodriguez, RHP, New York Yankees (Age: 22)
88. Didier Fuentes, RHP, Atlanta Braves (Age: 20)
89. J.R. Ritchie, RHP, Atlanta Braves (Age: 22)
90. Juan Valera, RHP, Boston Red Sox (Age: 19)
91. Bishop Letson, RHP, Milwaukee Brewers (Age: 21)
92. Theo Gillen, OF, Tampa Bay Rays (Age: 20)
93. Joshua Baez, RF, St. Louis Cardinals (Age: 22)
94. Charlee Soto, RHP, Minnesota Twins (Age: 20)
95. Jurrangelo Cijntje, RHP/LHP, Seattle Mariners (Age: 22)
96. Noah Schultz, LHP, Chicago White Sox (Age: 22)
97. Emmanuel Rodriguez, CF, Minnesota Twins (Age: 22)
98. Leonardo Bernal, C, St. Louis Cardinals (Age: 21)
99. Caden Scarborough, RHP, Texas Rangers (Age: 20)
100. Billy Carlson, SS, Chicago White Sox (Age: 19)