The MLB Pipeline Executive Poll reveals some intriguing insights into the minds of baseball's top executives. But who are the rising stars that have the industry buzzing?
The Top Prospects:
In the first installment, we unveiled the industry's picks for Rookie of the Year. Now, we delve deeper into the opinions of over 40 executives across almost every organization, seeking the best of the best in baseball's farm systems.
Konnor Griffin, the 2025 MLB Pipeline Hitting Prospect of the Year, dominates as the clear No. 1 prospect. His exceptional performance across three levels in his debut season, boasting a .941 OPS, 21 homers, and 65 steals, has executives convinced he's ready for the big leagues. Griffin's defensive prowess at shortstop, exceeding expectations, further solidifies his top spot.
The Best Pitching Prospect:
The race for the top pitching prospect is more competitive. Nolan McLean, the Mets' standout starter in 2025, and Trey Yesavage, a postseason hero, are strong contenders. However, Bubba Chandler of the Pirates garners more support, showcasing exceptional stuff and athleticism despite inconsistent minor league results.
The Best Defensive Prospect:
Griffin's defensive skills shine again as he tops the list for the best defensive prospect, surpassing Carson Williams and Starlyn Caba. His unexpected excellence at shortstop, initially projected to split time between infield and center field, has executives impressed.
The Most Underrated Prospects:
This category sparks diverse opinions, with 29 names mentioned. Kane Kepley, Ryan Waldschmidt, and Carson Benge lead the pack, each receiving 7.3%, 7.3%, and 4.9% of the votes, respectively. These players, along with others, are seen as potential top-100 talents or simply underrated gems.
The Breakout Prospects:
"Breakout" is a subjective term, and executives have identified 30 players who fit the bill. Kruz Schoolcraft (14.0%), Edward Florentino (7.0%), and Sal Stewart (7.0%) are among the top contenders. Schoolcraft's dual recognition as an underrated and breakout prospect adds intrigue to his potential.
The Future Closer:
Liam Doyle, a 2025 first-rounder for the Cardinals, takes the top spot for the best future closer, edging out Jarlin Susana. This choice may surprise Cardinals fans, as some scouts had concerns about Doyle's unorthodox delivery and effort. However, executives believe in his potential, drawing comparisons to Max Scherzer's path to success.
The Best Prospects of the Last Decade:
When asked about the best Minor League prospect of the last decade, executives highlight Paul Skenes, Bobby Witt Jr., and Konnor Griffin. Skenes, the only pitcher on the list, stands out despite a brief minor league stint. This group has produced impressive results, including Rookies of the Year and a Cy Young Award winner.
The Best Amateur Prospects:
Reframing the question to focus on the last decade, Paul Skenes and Bobby Witt Jr. emerge as the top amateur prospects, with Skenes gaining a significant boost in votes compared to the previous year. This shift in perspective provides a unique insight into the executives' opinions on recent talent.
