Just in: Potential rising stars poised for a breakthrough in 2024

January 4, 2024 emilysportnews-admin Detroit Tigers 0

Let’s stow away the Times Square ball and instead, rely on our metaphorical crystal ball. As the new year unfolds, the MLB Pipeline team is here with predictions on the prospects set to make a significant impact in each of the 30 farm systems in the upcoming season.

Reflecting on last year’s projections, our standout success was Rays infielder Junior Caminero, who soared from the 17th spot in his farm system to an impressive No. 6 overall ranking by the end of 2023. Notably, our picks of Chase DeLauter (Guardians), Everson Pereira (Yankees), AJ Smith-Shawver (Braves), Luisangel Acuña (Rangers/Mets), Jett Williams (Mets), Cade Horton (Cubs), Dalton Rushing (Dodgers), and Samuel Zavala (Padres) all fulfilled their potential, securing spots in the MLB Pipeline Top 100 by the year’s end.

Building on this past success, here’s our forecast for the prospects—one per organization—poised for significant breakthroughs in 2024:

AMERICAN LEAGUE CENTRAL

Tigers: Kevin McGonigle, SS/2B (No. 5)
Bonner-Prendie's Kevin McGonigle projected to be selected in first round of 2023 MLB Draft - 6abc Philadelphia
Be prepared for the possibility that the player selected as the 37th overall pick last year might significantly climb the Top 100 rankings in his inaugural full season. McGonigle is recognized for his adept ability to connect the bat with the ball, showcasing an impressive hit tool that has already made an impact in professional baseball. In his time with the Tigers’ FCL and Single-A affiliates, he demonstrated exceptional plate discipline by walking 18 times and only striking out 10 times over 93 plate appearances. While there are uncertainties regarding his power, particularly at this early stage, if it aligns with the average and is coupled with his disciplined approach at the plate, the middle infielder is poised to gain a more substantial reputation in the year ’24.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*