MAKING THE GRADE

Assessing the future value of graduated National League prospects

- J.J. COOPER, MATT EDDY and GEOFF PONTES

Future value is often in the eye of the beholder, especially when it comes to projecting the future value of prospects and young major leaguers.

That's why we asked three of our writers to identify the best bets for future success among this year's graduated National League rookies.

To do so, JJ Cooper (JJ), Matt Eddy (ME) and Geoff Pontes (GP) took part in an informal 30-pick draft. The goal was to identify players with the highest perceived peak value and likelihood of achieving it.

Eligible players are those who lost rookie status in 2025 by exceeding 130 career at-bats, 50 career innings or 45 career days of active MLB service. Big leaguers who retain rookie status in 2026, including Bubba Chandler, Bryce Eldridge and Nolan McLean, are excluded.

Each player drafted is presented with an upside role, expressed as BA Grade, a risk assessment and an adjusted grade that factors role and risk.

1. DRAKE BALDWIN
C, BRAVES
2026 AGE: 25.
Upside Role: 60 (occasional all-star C).
Risk: Mild. Adjusted: 55.

Baldwin is one of about a dozen rookie catchers to produce a three-win season at age 24 or younger in the 30-team era. The lefthanded batter did a bit of everything well, with positive indicators for contact and impact to go with near-average fielding ability. Baldwin's offensive production remained steady all season, even as he started a career-high 85 games behind the plate. (ME)

2. CADE HORTON
RHP, CUBS
2026 AGE: 24.
Upside Role: 60 (No. 3 starter).
Risk: Low. Adjusted: 55.