Are you ready for the 2023 baseball season? Houston Astros fans, this one is for you. The Astros may not be the powerhouse they were a decade ago, but their system is in better shape than it has been in recent years. If you’re looking for a visual and intriguing rundown of the team’s top 30 prospects for the upcoming season, look no further. We’ve got all the details you need to know.
Let’s start with Hunter Brown, the system’s top prospect. Brown’s fastball can reach an impressive 99 MPH, and he’s got a slider and curveball that flash above average. He’s been working hard to maintain his velocity throughout multiple innings, and his performance in 2022 earned him a call-up to the major leagues. Could he be the team’s next top starting pitcher?
Next up is Yainer Diaz, a recent addition to the team in a trade that sent Myles Straw to Cleveland. Diaz is a bat-first catcher who has proven his ability at every level. He hit .306 with 25 HR and 96 RBI in 2022, earning him Minor League Player of the Year in the Astros system. He still has some work to do behind the plate, but his power makes him a strong candidate for a breakout rookie season.
Now, let’s talk about Drew Gilbert, the team’s first-round pick in 2022. Gilbert possesses excellent hand-eye coordination and can consistently barrel balls. He’s got plus power and speed, and he’s currently projected to be the team’s future center fielder. Despite an injury setback, Gilbert has been a fierce competitor on the field and could be a player to watch in 2023.
Moving on to Jacob Melton, a left-handed outfielder who was drafted by the Astros in the second round of the 2022 draft. Melton had an outstanding junior year in college, and his advanced approach at the plate and above-average power make him a strong candidate for success in the future. He’s also a plus defender, making him a versatile option for the team.
Next on the list is Pedro Leon, a player the Astros were rumored to be eyeing for a long time before signing him in 2021. Although small in size, Leon possesses power to all fields and exceptional speed on the bases, making him a strong candidate for a role in the outfield. He’s already shown his potential in the minors, and fans are eagerly waiting for him to make an impact at the MLB level.
Korey Lee, the Astros’ first-round pick in 2019, is another prospect to watch. He’s a strong athlete with above-average arm strength and has shown his ability to drive the ball to the pull side. With potential for 20+ home runs, Lee could be a strong addition to the team’s roster.
Colin Barber, drafted in the fourth round out of high school in 2019, has had some struggles with injuries but has performed well when healthy. He’s got great bat speed and a patient approach at the plate, and his potential to hit the ball all over the park makes him an exciting prospect to watch.
Justin Dirden, an undrafted free agent, has dominated in the Astros system with above-average power and the ability to drive the ball to all fields. Despite his size, he’s a good athlete who could stick in center field at the big league level.
Last but not least is Spencer Arrighetti, a right-handed pitcher with a low to mid-90s fastball and a plus slider. He’s worked hard to improve his curveball and changeup, and his fastball has great ride on it, making him a formidable opponent on the mound.
All in all, the Astros’ system is in good shape for the 2023 season. With strong performers and a mix of production and potential, there’s a lot to look forward to. Will the Astros make it back to the playoffs this year? Only time will tell. But with these exciting prospects waiting in the wings, fans have plenty to be hopeful about.
Source: www.crawfishboxes.com