Central STL News

The MLB Pipeline has released an updated version of its Top 100 Prospects list as the baseball world transitions from the end of the Minor League season to the Arizona Fall League. This latest update is described as a "market correction," involving a complete revote on the top 15 prospects, significant movement for some players, and replacements for those who have dropped out of the rankings.

Konnor Griffin, shortstop/outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates, remains at No. 1. Kevin McGonigle (Tigers) and Leo De Vries (Athletics) hold onto second and third positions, respectively. JJ Wetherholt of the St. Louis Cardinals moves up to fifth place, continuing his rise among infield prospects.

The most notable jump within the top 15 comes from Nolan McLean, right-handed pitcher for the New York Mets, who rises to No. 11 from No. 36 after posting a 2.06 ERA with 57 strikeouts in eight starts late in the season. According to MLB Pipeline: "McLean posted a 2.06 ERA with 57 strikeouts and only 16 walks in eight starts, and beyond the results, he showed killer stuff with his heavy mid-90s sinker as well as his high-spin sweeper and curveball." The report adds that improved control against Major League hitters has established him as baseball's top pitching prospect.

Among new entrants to the Top 100 are Elmer Rodriguez-Cruz (Yankees), Jackson Ferris (Dodgers), and Emil Morales (Dodgers). The Dodgers now have seven prospects featured on this list.

Rainiel Rodriguez, catcher for the Cardinals organization, is one of this update’s highest risers—moving up 38 spots to No. 55 after hitting 20 home runs across three Minor League levels in his first stateside season. Carter Jensen (Royals) also climbed significantly due to strong offensive performances at Double-A and Triple-A before moving up to Kansas City’s Major League roster.

Conversely, several players saw notable drops in their rankings. Leonardo Bernal, another Cardinals catching prospect known for defensive skills but limited offensive production during much of this season at Double-A Springfield, fell by 23 places to No. 92. As noted by MLB Pipeline: "Bernal has a high floor as a strong defensive backstop... But the Cardinals catcher hit a wall offensively in the middle of the season and batted just .204/.305/.277 with two homers and a 66 wRC+ in 52 games for Double-A Springfield from July 1 onward."

Other significant fallers include Jeferson Quero (Brewers), Rhett Lowder (Reds), Jarlin Susana (Nationals), Arjun Nimmala (Blue Jays), Blake Mitchell (Royals), Spencer Jones (Yankees), and Jhostynxon Garcia (Red Sox). Players leaving the Top 100 entirely include Jefferson Rojas (Cubs), Logan Henderson (Brewers), and Felnin Celesten (Mariners).

This revision provides an updated look at emerging talent ahead of offseason activities such as team planning and player development programs.