Central STL News

This year, the promotions of top prospects in Major League Baseball are occurring at a rapid pace. Chase Burns, last year's No. 2 overall pick, recently made his debut against the Yankees. Other notable call-ups include Roman Anthony to Boston and Jac Caglianone to Kansas City. Since the start of the season, 29 prospects from MLB Pipeline's Top 100 list have reached the majors.

The question remains: who will be next? Jim Callis, Jonathan Mayo, and host Jason Ratliff discussed this on the latest MLB Pipeline Podcast through a mock draft exercise.

Currently, there are 16 players on the Top 100 list at Triple-A with an estimated time of arrival in 2025. Callis and Mayo conducted a four-round mock draft to predict which prospects will be promoted first. Each pick will earn points based on how many days it takes for those players to get called up; fewer points indicate better predictions.

Jim Callis selected Samuel Basallo (MLB No. 15) from the Orioles as his first pick. Basallo is excelling at Triple-A with a .968 OPS but has questions about his defensive skills.

Jonathan Mayo picked Justin Crawford (MLB No. 50) from the Phillies second. Crawford is performing well offensively but faces competition for a spot in left field.

Mayo also chose Quinn Mathews (MLB No. 34) from the Cardinals third, citing his potential to provide rotation depth despite recent shoulder issues.

Andrew Painter (MLB No. 5), another Phillies prospect, was Callis's fourth choice due to high expectations for him this season despite control issues at Triple-A.

Chase DeLauter (MLB No. 46) from the Guardians was Callis's fifth pick because of his offensive potential when healthy, though he has been limited by injuries.

Mayo selected Bubba Chandler (MLB No. 2) from the Pirates sixth due to his readiness despite recent struggles and strong team performance in Pittsburgh's rotation.

C.J. Kayfus (MLB No. 94), another Guardians player chosen seventh by Mayo, shows promise offensively but lacks experience defensively in needed positions.

Finally, Owen Caissie (MLB No. 43) from the Cubs was picked eighth by Callis as a steady offensive contributor who may find opportunities elsewhere if traded due to being blocked by current outfield regulars.