Future Projection — A Baseball America Podcast

Ben and Carlos focus on up-arrow prospects who are not quite on the top 100, but are tracking up the board on individual Top 30s. The group of names includes a pair of Brewers lefthanded hitter, a trio of Guardians contact bats, A Rangers shortstop to know, even more Dodgers outfield prospects to be aware of and a few young arms with big stuff. They close with a chat about what scouting departments are doing this time of year as the college season winds down and the draft approaches. —Time Stamps(4:00) Prospect talk begins(4:30) Braylon Payne(10:00) Blake Burke(17:30) Cooper Ingle(23:00) Jasion Chourio & Robert Arias(29:40) Yolfran Castillo(32:40) Pedro Ramirez(36:00) Charles Davalan & Kendall George(42:00) Sadbiel Delzine (45:40) Dylan Jordan(50:00) How scouting departments operate this time of year—Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos open the mailbag to answer questions about the top defensive shortstop prospects in the minors; where 2027 California high school shortstop Dylan Seward would rank in the 2026 class; the center field likelihood of Derek Curiel, Drew Burress and AJ Gracia; and the odds that Justin Lebron slides out of the first round. —Time Stamps:(1:30) Who are the best defensive shortstops in the minors?(10:00) Where would Dylan Seward rank if he was in the 2026 class?(16:00) CF defense profiles of Derek Curiel, Drew Burress & AJ Gracia(20:00) Is there a chance Justin Lebron falls out of the first round?—Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about the Mock Draft V 3.0, the most recent projection of the first 40 picks for the 2026 draft. The two talk about the latest rumors up top, whether or not Roch Cholowsky and Grady Emerson are in a tier of their own, and then talk through a number of different teams and picks throughout the first round and beyond. —Time Stamps(0:30) Jesus Made as the new top prospect(4:15) Where Roch Cholowsky fits in the Top 100(7:30) Giants SS Luis Hernandez (9:50) Mock draft talk(13:00) Grady Emerson vs. Vahn Lackey(19:00) Twins(23:55) Giants(29:00) Tegan Kuhns(31:30) Royals(35:00) Jared Grindlinger(40:00) Orioles(45:00) Why Eric Booth is going high(50:00) Braves(54:00) Nationals(56:40) Reds(1:04:00) Guardians(1:11:30) Red Sox(1:15:00) Padres(1:28:00) Coleman Borthwick—Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today's mailbag episode Ben and Carlos take questions about Braves prospect rankings, how the top of the 2026 draft stacks up with recent classes and which players we are individually higher or lower on in regards to our updated Top 100 prospect list. —Time Stamps:(1:05) Why are you guys light/late on Braves prospects?(8:30) Where does the 2026 top four compare to the 2025 and 2024 classes?(17:10) Are there any players you think are too high or too low on the top 100? —Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about the first significant in-season update to the 2026 Top 100 list. The two talk about a handful of 2025 draftees who are flipping the switch with strong starts to the season after questionable pro debuts in 2026. They talk about a few notable additions at the back of the list, including a handful of Rays prospects and Royals infielder Josh Hammond. They also talk about how electric Padres catcher Ethan Salas has been, and the consistent offensive production that Mets outfield AJ Ewing provides. —Time Stamps(1:00) Top 100 adjustments(4:00) Ethan Holliday, Tate Southisene, Kayson Cunningham(17:30) Ethan Salas(27:45) Josh Hammond (32:00) Rays risers(42:00) Emil Morales(45:00) AJ Ewing (47:30) Names close to the 100 who aren't quite there yet—Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos break open the FP mailbag and talk about hitters outside of the top 10 they have a lot of conviction in, complex league players they are anticipating, the logistics of academies in the Dominican Republic and what would have to happen for UCLA SS Roch Cholowsky to actually slide in the draft. —Time Stamps:(1:05) Which draft hit tools are you most convicted of deeper in the class?(11:00) Which players are you looking forward to in the complexes?(23:30) How many academies are there in the D.R. and how many players are at those academies? (30:15) Is there any world where Roch Cholowsky could slide?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about the recent MLB draft rankings update and talk about the process this year. They then discuss a few potential first rounders they saw in person recently. Carlos talks about his two-inning look at Coastal Carolina RHP Cameron Flukey, while Ben breaks down New York high school shortstop Aiden Ruiz. That leads to a conversation about the challenge of projecting power, especially for high school hitters who might have big differences in game and raw power.After that the two talk about the struggles of Alabama SS Justin Lebron and Mississippi State 3B Ace Reese in conference play, and wonder which profiles are most likely to move up the board down the stretch. They close the show with some talk about White Sox SS Caleb Bonemer and Rays C Caden Bodine. —Time Stamps(1:00) Draft rankings process talk(12:00) Cam Flukey(20:00) Aiden Ruiz(26:00) Thoughts on projecting raw power(31:30) EJ Booth(41:00) Justin Lebron & Ace Reese(48:30) Which profiles can move themselves up the board down the stretch?(55:30) Caleb Bonemer(1:01:20) Caden BodineDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos take listener questions on a variety of up-arrow pro prospects including Orioles righthander JT Quinn, White Sox outfielder Samuel Zavala, Braves outfielder Eric Hartman and Dodgers outfielder Josue De Paula. —Time Stamps:(0:30) JT Quinn(6:00) Sammy Zavala (10:00) Eric Hartman & Tate Southisene(15:50) Josue De Paula(20:00) FCL and DSL streamingDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos lament Chipotle's points policy before getting into the real stuff. The two talk about a number of strong performances from a handful of 2025 draftees, including Seth Hernandez, Kade Anderson, Jamie Arnold, Tyler Bremner, JoJo Parker, Kayson Cunningham and others. They then talk about the loud offensive season and power surge from Red Sox shortstop Franklin Arias, wonder about the strikeout tendencies of Tigers shortstop Bryce Rainer and talk about the approach overhaul of Nationals shortstop Seaver King. Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro(3:40) Seth Hernandez (11:00) Kade Anderson(13:00) Jamie Arnold(16:30) Tyler Bremner(22:00) Will teams be more aggressive with high school pitchers this year?(25:40) JoJo Parker(27:45) Kayson Cunningham(30:00) Josh Hammond(34:30) Ike Irish(36:15) Franklin Arias(41:30) Josh Adamczewski(49:10) Bryce Rainer (54:40) Nationals prospects to be excited aboutDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about Ben's recent trip to the Dominican Republic and then break open this week's listener mailbag. Recommendations for college students who want to work in scouting, how we view the hit risk of Florida shortstop Jacob Lombard and whether we'd rather have the No. 3 or 4 pick with a smaller bonus pool, or the No. 5 pick with a bigger bonus pool. —Time Stamps:(0:15) Ben's trip to the Dominican Republic(14:10) What suggestions do you have for someone who wants to work in scouting?(25:30) How do you consider the hit tool risk for Jacob Lombard?(34:00) Would you rather pick No. 3/4 with a smaller pool or No. 5 with a bigger pool?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about how they react when scouting opinions differ from their own, then take a few listener emails. How do pitchers add velocity so quickly? How do teams rank their own prospects and other prospects from other clubs? Why couldn't the Pirates offer a ton of money to get Roch Cholowsky to them at pick No. 5?  —Time Stamps:(0:40) What happens when a scout's view differs from yours?(13:00) How do players add velocity so quickly?(21:00) Do teams have their own prospect rankings for themselves and other clubs?(26:00) Why couldn't the Pirates offer a ton of money to get Roch Cholowsky at pick No. 5?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about yet another ridiculously talented high school lefthander in this year's class, Massachusetts southpaw Brody Bumila. After that the two talk about Konnor Griffin's nine-year extension with the Pirates, then get into a number of impressive early-season minor league performers so far this season. —Time Stamps:(4:00) In the weeds on Brody Bumila(20:30) Konnor Griffin's extension(27:30) Noah Schultz(32:20) Max Clark (37:00) George Lombard Jr. (41:00) A brief draft tangent(44:00) Marco Dinges(49:30) Dylan Jordan(50:00) Kade Anderson(54:45) Gavin Kilen(56:30) Tanner FranklinDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today's mailbag episode Ben and Carlos talk through Guardians 2B Travis Bazzana's big league ETA, explain what they look for in prospect beyond physical tools and think through how added weight could impact Brewers SS Jesús Made's defensive profile. The two answer questions about whether they are buying White Sox INF/OF Sam Antonacci's breakout, whether there is still hope for Red Sox 2B Kristian Campbell and then answer more detailed questions about draft bonuses and leverage. —Time Stamps:(1:00) What is Travis Bazzana's call up timeline?(3:00) What do you look for beyond just tools?(8:40) How has Jesús Made's additional weight impacted his defensive profile?(14:10) Are you buying a Sam Antonacci breakout?(16:45) Is there still hope for Kristian Campbell? (19:30) Why do college juniors and seniors have less draft leverage? Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about the extensions for Mariners shortstop Colt Emerson and Brewers shortstop Cooper Pratt. The two then talk about a few early performing Triple-A hitters, talk through a few of the standouts that Carlos saw in Cary at USA Baseball's National High School Invitational and then react to the news that Konnor Griffin is being promoted to the majors as the news breaks on the show. –Time Stamps:(1:30) Colt Emerson & Cooper Pratt extensions(9:00) Is the Cooper Pratt deal more surprising?(18:00) False certainty in major league deals(20:30) James Tibbs (27:20) Luis Lara(33:00) NHSI talk(44:00) James Clark(53:00) Reacting to the Konnor Griffin promotion liveDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about their impressions of the ABS system in the majors and then crack open the mailbag. The two take a questions about comparing recent top tier college prospects, Elian Pena skipping the FCL, DSL names we're excited about, bonus pool logistics in the draft and why the first overall pick and other players take underslot deals as well as questions about A's outfielder Breyson Guedez and Blue Jays prospects JoJo Parker and Juan Sanchez.—Time Stamps:(0:00) Initial ABS talk (8:00) How would you compare Henry Davis, Joey Bart & Vahn Lackey?(15:30) Are you surprised Elian Pena is skipping the FCL?(18:30) Who are some DSL names you're excited to see this summer?(24:00) Could you explain how bonus pool money works and why players take underslot deals?(32:00) Thoughts on A's outfielder Breyson Guedez?(35:00) What's the chatter on Blue Jays prospects JoJo Parker and Juan Sanchez?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about the new trend of teams calling pitches from the dugout in the major leagues and then get into some of the notable action items from spring training. The two gush over what they've been seeing from Pirates righty Seth Hernandez and Mariners righty Ryan Sloan, and also talk about what we've seen early on from a few other arms and a couple of Brewers bats. After that the two talk about Dylan Crews being optioned to Triple-A and then discuss the most recent draft board update and what best-case scenarios could look like for the Giants and Pirates with the fourth and fifth picks of the draft.–Time Stamps:(2:30) Thoughts on teams calling pitches from the dugout(13:00) Seth Hernandez touching 102(19:00) Ryan Sloan adding more velocity(24:30) Anthony Eyanson(28:40) Kendry Chourio(30:45) Dasan Hill(33:20) Luis Peña & Andrew Fischer(40:00) Are we concerned about Dylan Crews?(47:00) 2026 draft updateDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On today's mailbag episode, Ben and Carlos take questions on projection vs. present skill for college recruits, Josuar Gonzalez vs. Luis Hernandez for the Giants, fielding percentage as a tool for evaluating college shortstops, Will Gasparino and Mason Edwards and the stats that matter for high school players. —Time Stamps:(0:50) Do college coaches look for projection or present ability? (10:20) Will Josuar Gonzalez or Luis Hernandez be the better long-term Giants SS?(15:00) Is there value in weighing fielding percentage for college shortstops?(20:40) Why no Will Gasparino or Mason Edwards on your recent rising prospects piece?(29:30) What are the stats and numbers that matter for high school players?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos give their final thoughts on an epic World Baseball Classic, then turn their eyes towards prospects and spring training. The two talk about some of the top hitters who have played well this spring, plus a couple of notable pitching prospects who might have made key additions to their arsenals for 2026.–Time Stamps:(0:30) Final WBC talk(8:45) Spring training talk(14:20) Jesus Made(18:30) Colt Emerson(27:00) Bryce Eldridge(30:40) Samuel Basallo(33:50) Charlie Condon (50:00) Joshua Baez(53:00) Braden Montgomery(55:00) Sam Antonacci(57:40) Hagen Smith(1:00:45) Didier FuentesDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos break open the listener mailbag and answer questions on a trio of young Cardinals shortstops, why Brady Harris might be slipping in the draft and how his risk and upside compares to Kevin Roberts Jr., whether or not Elian Pena has a chance to be a top 25 prospect and what changes we would make to the draft broadcast. —Time Stamps:(1:20) Can you compare and contrast Yairo Padilla, Miguel Hernandez & Sebastian Dos Santos?(6:50) Why is Brady Harris slipping and how does his risk compare to Kevin Roberts Jr.?(13:10) Will Mets SS Elian Pena be a top 25 prospect this time next year?(16:15) What changes would you guys make to the draft presentation?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about the World Baseball Classic and the drama surrounding team USA. After that, they compare and contrast some of the top college outfielders in the 2026 draft class. Why is Ben so high on Virginia's AJ Gracia? And why can Carlos not quit on LSU's Derek Curiel? Those two, plus thoughts on Sawyer Strosnider and Drew Burress—plus a few comments on his Georgia Tech teammate Vahn Lackey skyrocketing with more power this spring. –Time Stamps:(2:00) A valid Team USA critique and a non-valid critique(18:30) College outfield talk begins(21:00) AJ Gracia(25:00) Sawyer Strosnider(30:00) Derek Curiel(38:30) How would we line up the outfield group?(45:00) Thoughts on Georgia Tech's Vahn LackeyDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos answer listener questions about how we know when to re-adjust expectations for prospects and the difference in value between center fielders and shortstops.—Time Stamps:(3:00) How do you know if a player is hitting a high percentile outcome vs. adjusting possible expectations?(8:00) Why it's hard to deal with specific percentile projections(16:00) Why approach changes are incremental(18:00) Being skeptical of surface level results with no process changes(25:00) How much more do teams value shortstops vs. center fielders?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about a double first base bag dilemma that surfaced in college baseball, then get into some spring training prospect talk. Should Kevin McGonigle and JJ Wetherholt make opening day rosters? Is Orioles outfielder Vance Honeycutt starting to figure something out? They talk about other names like Payton Tolle and Connelly Early, Charlie Condon, Sam Antonacci, Justin Crawford, JR Ritchie and then get into some brief week three college baseball and draft talk. —Time stamps:(0:30) A college double first base bag dilemma(10:00) Spring training talk(14:15) Does Kevin McGonigle make the opening day roster?(20:50) JJ Wetherholt and the Cardinals(25:40) The looming CBA negotiations(29:00) The merits of a college baseball system(31:30) Is Vance Honeycutt figuring it out?(36:15) Red Sox lefties Payton Tolle & Connelly Early(39:20) Charlie Condon(46:15) Sam Antonacci(51:50) Justin Crawford(55:55) JR Ritchie(59:00) Week three draft talkDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos open up the listener mailbag and take questions on a number of draft topics including: prep sleepers who could be first rounders; Ace Reese's defensive profile; Konnor Griffin's impact on scouting; who our favorite prospect in the class is after Roch Cholowsky and Grady Emerson; Derek Curiel's lack of power; and whether or not teams care about the pick order when they are picking back-to-back. —Time Stamps:(0:50) Who are some sleeper prep names who could be first rounders?(8:20) What do you think about Ace Reese's upside and defensive profile?(12:45) How did so many teams miss on Konnor Griffin and how does that change scouting for 2026?(20:30) Who is your current No. 3 prospect after Roch Cholowsky and Grady Emerson?(25:20) Where does Derek Curiel fit in the draft given his lack of power?(31:40) How do teams decide who to pick first when they have back-to-back picks?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about a few pitchers who have them excited from early spring training outings, then get into one of the most exciting pitching prospects in the country, Oregon State righthander Dax Whitney. The two talk about whether or not he's the best pitching prospect since Paul Skenes, and then kickstart a conversation about the top prospects from each of the next two draft classes, headlined by some players to know from our recently released 2028 high school rankings. —Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro(4:00) Bishop Letson(12:30) Carlos Lagrange(19:10) Dax Whitney(31:00) Dax Whitney vs. Brendan Lawson(37:00) 2028 high school rankings(39:00) Why Striker Pence is No. 1(47:00) Other names to know at the top of the 2028 class (52:00 Ben blip)Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos take listener questions on whether pitchers with deep arsenals and good command are overrated, about players who aren't ranked top 100 who could jump into top-10 territory with a good season, and about whether or not recent Duke commit James Clark has a chance to make it to campus.—Time Stamps:(1:25) Do you think pitchers with deeper arsenals get undervalued?(11:30) Who is someone outside the top 100 who could be a top 10 prospect by the end of the season?(18:20) Will James Clark make it to campus at Duke or go straight to the pros?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about the challenges of scouting players in the early portions of a baseball season, and discuss the differences in evaluating hitters and pitchers in those time periods. The two talk about a number of standouts from Carlos's week one Texas trip, including Grady Emerson, Lucas Franco, Cam Johnson and more. After that the two talk about Noah Franco's two way status, why they disagree on two-way players and also use that to talk about the reclassification of Jared Grindlinger from 2027 to 2026. —Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro(8:30) Grady Emerson (20:00) Evaluating a high school hitter in the spring(28:00) Physical changes of young players(33:00) Watching a college hitter early in the season(37:00) Watching a college pitcher early in the year(49:30) Lucas Franco(55:00) Brendan Lawson(59:00) Noah Franco(1:11:15) Jared Grindlinger reclasses from 2027 to 2026Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben, Carlos and Jacob conduct the fourth annual amateur player draft. The name of the game is simple: select the most talented team you can among 2026 draft-eligible prospects. Each drafter has to fill out a roster as follows: one catcher, two corner infielders, two middle infielders, three outfielders, four pitchers and one utility spot. Each team needs to have at least six high school players and at least six college players. Who had the best draft? Let us know what you think. —Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro(0:40) Draft explained(3:40) Draft begins(6:10) First pitcher selected(10:00) Jacob Lombard vs. Justin Lebron(11:50) First catcher off the board(18:00) Ben doubles down on outfielders(23:30) The first positional “debate”(29:35) Carlos continues to stack pitchers(32:40) Ben goes crazy for college players(42:05) Jacob gets an outfield bat he loves(58:00) Team-by-team draft summaries and takeawaysDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos answer listener questions about how bat tracking technology and athletic testing metrics have changed high school scouting, how multi-sport athletes are valued and where some of the top 2027 draft prospects would slot into the 2026 class. —Time Stamps:(0:30) How has technology like bat tracking and force plates changed high school scouting?(14:20) Do multi-sport athletes project better than baseball-only players?(23:05) Where would high-end 2027 draft prospects fit in the 2026 draft class?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk through the new Baseball America farm system rankings. How close are the top teams and what separates them? Which farm systems are our picks to take big steps forward a year from now? After farm system talk, the two discuss the new Top 200 draft rankings for the 2026 class. —Time Stamps:(0:00) WBC excitement(6:30) Updated farm system rankings(9:00) Are the Pirates a clear No. 1 system?(18:00) Cardinals vs. Brewers(24:30) The Brewers case as No. 1(29:00) Top-heavy Tigers(36:00) Bias towards the orgs you're familiar with(44:20) Which teams are primed to step forward(51:30) Updated draft board talkDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos take some questions from last week's draft chat and expand on them in the podcast. The two discuss their favorite college pitchers in the class, talk about the questions with Jacob Lombard's contact ability and also talk about the changes they would make to the MLB draft. —Time Stamps:(0:45) Our favorite college pitcher in the class(9:55) Concerns with Jacob Lombard's contact ability(18:00) The changes we would make to the draftDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk briefly about the demographics and depth of the 2026 draft class, before getting into a conversation about high school recruiting and the power dynamics and changes in the space over the last few years. After that they break down some of the top PPI eligible prospects and discuss which players might be best-positioned to help their clubs add extra picks with strong 2026 performances. —Time Stamps(0:00) Intro(3:00) The depth of the 2026 draft class(6:00) Strength of the Southeast(10:00) West coast colleges losing players(17:00) Power conference recruiting factors(21:00) The importance of high school recruiting(23:00) The number of high school players signing(31:00) PPI eligible player conversationDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos open up the Future Projection listener mailbag and talk about some of their favorite prospects who didn't make the top 100 but could be there shortly. They also hit on a handful of Braves prospects who could be in the same camp, plus talk about potential IFA signing day implications that could come (or not come) from a lockout after the 2026 season. —Time Stamps(1:00) Favorite prospects who didn't make the Top 100(17:50) Braves prospects who could join the Top 100(22:30) IFA signing day implications with a lockoutDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos discuss the recently released Top 100 prospects list for the 2026 season. The two work their way down the list and discuss players they like at every stage, as well as players they are split on, players who are more polarizing and players who they are more skeptical of. The two also give their reactions to the Freddy Peralta trade, and at the end of the show react live to the MacKenzie Gore trade that broke on air. —Time Stamps(1:30) Freddy Peralta trade reactions(13:30) Top 100 talk starts(16:50) The top pitchers in the class(21:30) Colt Emerson(26:00) Walker Jenkins & Max Clark(30:30) Carter Jensen(35:20) Carson Benge(37:00) Bryce Eldridge(39:45) Thomas White(43:00) Sal Stewart, Dylan Beavers, Josue De Paula, Josuar Gonzalez(49:30) Bryce Rainer(53:05) Moises Ballesteros(55:00) Seth Hernandez, Eli Willits(57:00) Brody Hopkins(1:01:00) Mike Sirota(1:04:35) Franklin Arias(1:08:00) Jonah Tong(1:13:00) Luis Peña(1:17:00) Ryan Sloan(1:19:30) Lazaro Montes(1:23:00) Elmer Rodriguez(1:25:30) Caden Scarborough(1:28:20) Arjun Nimmala(1:30:10) Justin Crawford(1:36:00) Rhett Lowder(1:37:40) Kendry Chourio, Braylon Doughty(1:45:40) Luis De Leon(1:47:30) Billy Carlson(1:48:00) Marek Houston(1:50:00) Live MacKenzie Gore trade reactionDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Future Projection Twitter: @FutureProPodBen's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos hop on the podcast for a Jan. 15 focused edition of the show where Ben provides all the details on every team in the league. If you want to know about your team's 2026 international signing class, this is the podcast for you. —Time Stamps:(2:30) Guardians(7:40) Tigers(11:05) Royals(16:25) Twins(19:25) White Sox(23:30) Brewers(27:30) Cubs(29:45) Reds(32:45) Cardinals(36:45) Pirates(40:15) Mariners(43:30) Astros(45:55) Rangers(48:48) Athletics(52:45) Angels(55:25) Dodgers(1:00:30) Giants(1:05:15) Diamondbacks(1:09:05) Padres(1:12:40) Rockies(1:15:05) Red Sox(1:17:55) Yankees(1:20:40) Blue Jays(1:23:30) Rays(1:27:45) Orioles(1:30:50) Phillies(1:33:40) Mets(1:36:00) Marlins(1:38:50) Braves(1:41:00) NationalsDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos open the mailbag in today's episode. The two answer a handful of questions including: how do prep pitchers change their stock during the spring? Which prospects do we like to the same level as Trey Yesavage? Whether or not Roch Cholowsky and Grady Emerson are the clear 1-2 players in the class. And where Wandy Asigen and other top international signees would fit if they were draft eligible. Time Stamps:(0:50) How do high school players change their stock in the spring?(8:00) Which college prospects do we like as much as Trey Yesavage?(15:00) Are Roch Cholowsky and Grady Emerson a clearcut 1-2?(23:00) Would Wandy Asigen go inside the top five picks of the draft?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a  question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about how deep and talented the high school pitching crop is for the 2026 draft class. The two try to contextualize where this class of prep arms stacks up with some of the best in recent memory, and then discuss why pitchers across the board seem better today than they were five, 10, 15 years ago. The two talk about the general risk of pitching prospects vs. hitting prospects, how there are tools today that give us more precision in our pitching evaluations and then hit on a few of the different pitcher archetypes available in the class.After that Ben gives a rundown and update on the upcoming 2026 international signing period, which opens on January 15. Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro (5:35) Kaiden McCarthy reclassifies(8:00) Contextualizing the 2026 prep pitching class(12:00) The additional risk of pitching prospects(16:00) Misses from the vaunted 2018 class(18:30) Pitchers are better today in absolute terms(22:30) Better ability to evaluate pitchers(26:00) A variety of pitching styles(38:00) 2026 International Class thoughts(41:00) Luis Hernandez as the top bonus player(45:00) The status of an international draft(50:50) The state of international pitching(53:00) Notable names to keep in mindDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos have a conversation about pitching development with Paul Davis. Davis has spent years in the game and was most recently the Braves director of pitching. He's also spent time with both the Cardinals and Mariners organizations, and coached and played baseball in college. Davis talks about what it's like to be a pitching director and how pitching development has changed over the years. He talks about movement patterns, delivery checkpoints, injuries, the importance of having a competitive mindset, the development path of Spencer Strider, breaking ball development, why fastballs are more than just velocity, the importance of making hitters swing, stuff vs. command, how to train strike-throwing, developing deep arsenals and more. —Time Stamps:(2:30) An overview of a pitching director's job(6:10) How much collaboration does a pitching director have with draft picks?(9:15) Delivery checkpoints, movement patterns and injuries(14:50) The difficulty of changing movement patterns(23:00) The importance of a competitive mindset(31:30) Spencer Strider's development path(46:30) Developing a breaking ball(53:00) Why fastballs are more than velocity(55:00) The importance of making hitters swing(1:03:00) A pitcher with stuff vs. a pitcher with command(1:11:30) Training command and strike-throwing(1:16:20) Thoughts on stuff+ and granular pitch data (1:20:00) Combining force plate metrics with pitch data to reverse-engineer stuff(1:24:30) The next wave of Braves pitchersDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos break open the listener mailbag after talking briefly about MLB's new tech limitations that are coming to baseball. Today's listener topics include Dominican Summer League breakout candidates, the comps on 2026 high school shortstop Tyler Spangler, the rarity of 60-grade hit/power prospects and players outside the top 100 with the biggest upside potential. —Time Stamps: (0:00) Intro and tech talk(10:00) DSL breakouts(16:45) Tyler Spangler comps?(20:00) The rarity of 60-grade hit/power prospects(28:20) Upside players not on the top 100Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos complete their divisional prospect breakdown with the AL West. The two analyze each team's farm system, talk about the strengths and weaknesses, get into some of the top players and more.—Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro & Prospect Handbook Talk(4:45) Mariners(31:30) Athletics(59:30) Rangers(1:19:00) Astros(1:33:30) AngelsDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Let's open the listener mailbag.To get into all of your questions, Ben and Carlos shake up the Future Projection formula and give you a 30-minute episode exclusively with listener questions. Where would Roch Cholowsky slot onto the top 100 prospects list right now? Who are our favorite pure hitters in the 2026 class? What do we think about Texas catcher Carson Tinney and his summer struggles? And will the Braves take a pair of high school pitchers in 2026? If you have questions of your own, send them to us with the contact info below.—Time Stamps:(0:30) Where would Roch Cholowsky rank on the top 100?(9:00) Who are our favorite technicians at the plate in the 2026 class?(18:00) What do we think about Carson Tinney's poor production in the Cape?(21:00) Will the Braves take two high school arms?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos continue their divisional prospect breakdown with the AL Central. The two analyze each team's farm system, talk about the strengths and weaknesses, get into some of the top players and more.—Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro(2:00) Draft lottery(9:20) AL Central talk(10:45) Tigers(40:40) Guardians(1:03:10) Twins(1:24:30) White Sox (1:50:00) RoyalsDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos continue their divisional prospect breakdown with the AL East. The two analyze each team's farm system, talk about the strengths and weaknesses, get into some of the top players and more.—Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro(5:30) AL East overview(8:00) Red Sox(33:30) Orioles(58:00) Blue Jays(1:16:00) Rays(1:36:00) YankeesDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos throw the mailbag wide open and take a variety of listener questions ahead of Thanksgiving. The two put grades on Thanksgiving dishes and also spend plenty of time talking about prospects, scouting, baseball jargon, sleepers, potential position switches, draft busts, personal cheeseballs and more. —Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro(3:00) Thanksgiving food grades(14:00) What do we mean by hitterish?(28:30) Biggest personal cheeseball hits?(35:00) Pitchers beyond the first round who could pop(43:00) Who has the best command in the 2026 class?(50:00) Is travel ball a scam? Has it been good or harmful?(1:00:00) Biggest draft busts?(1:12:50) Should Rainiel Rodriguez move off catcher?(1:14:30) Who are the top 2027 northeast arms to know?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos continue their divisional prospect breakdown with the NL West. The two analyze each team's farm system, talk about the strengths and weaknesses, get into some of the top players and more.—Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro(5:30) Dodgers(31:40) Giants(56:30) D-backs(1:18:00) Rockies(1:41:10) PadresDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos continue their divisional prospect breakdown with the NL Central. The two analyze each team's farm system, talk about the strengths and weaknesses, get into some of the top players and more.—Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro(8:00) Brewers(41:00) Pirates(1:00:00) Cardinals(1:25:00) Reds(1:42:00) CubsDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos kick off their annual farm system review series with the NL East. The two talk through each farm system, discuss development and acquisition trends, break down the top players in each system and try to talk through where players and orgs will rank in the greater prospect landscape. —Time Stamps:(0:00) Quick World Series recap(3:00) Rockies struggles(13:00) Mets(40:00) Marlins(1:02:00) Nationals(1:18:00) Phillies(1:42:00) BravesDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about Trey Yesavage's lights out start in the World Series and think back to draft day when he fell further than expected to the Blue Jays at 20. The two talk about how medical questions impact the decision-making process for signing players and then turn to the AFL. Which high-performing hitters from the league are we buying and which are we selling? The two then briefly touch on some of the managerial hires around the league and answer a listener question about scouting shortstop defense.—Time Stamps:(0:00) Intro(3:00) Trey Yesavage's slide on draft day(13:00) Where will Yesavage rank on the 100(14:30) Do doctors have too much say in the draft room?(22:00) Who's running the room on signing decisions?(31:30) AFL standouts(32:00) Esmerlyn Valdez(36:30) Josh Adamczewski(42:00) Luke Adams(51:00) Seaver King(58:00) Max Anderson(1:00:30) Kevin McGonigle(1:03:30) MLB managerial hires(1:12:30) What are the “three” things we look for with shortstops? Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about the official news that Tennessee coach Tony Vitello is moving to the majors and discuss some of the strategic managerial lessons that can be learned from this year's postseason. The two then talk about our October draft update and explore some of the question marks in the 2026 class beyond Roch Cholowsky and Grady Emerson. The two discuss a handful of their favorite sleeper candidates to move into the first round and then take a listener question about batter handedness. —Time Stamps:(0:30) Tony Vitello news(6:15) Implications for the Giants(13:00) Strategic lessons to learn from the ALCS(20:00) More thoughts on MLB bullpen management(28:00) Draft class talk(35:00) Justin Lebron & Tyler Bell(39:00) College pitching (44:00) High school pitching(53:30) Players who have a chance to jump into the first round(1:06:00) Valuing lefty hitters and righty hittersDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about the finalists for the 2025 gold glove awards and talk about the players' defensive backgrounds leading up to now. Who were the no-brainer gold glove winners as amateurs, and who are the players who surprise us now that they are? After that the two talk about some of the top minor league candidates to win future gold glove awards. They also talk about 2027 high school catcher Will Brick jumping into the 2026 class and wonder where all the high school catching talent has gone in recent years. Finally they tackle a few listener questions. —Time Stamps(0:00) Intro(2:00) Gold glove nominees(4:30) Catchers (Alejandro Kirk and Patrick Bailey)(15:20) First base (Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bryce Harper)(21:00) Second base (Brice Turang, Xavier Edwards)(24:40) Third base (Matt Shaw, Ke'Bryan Hayes, Ryan McMahon)(32:00) Shortstop (Corey Seager, Mookie Betts, Bobby Witt Jr.)(48:00) Left field (Wyatt Langford, Tyler Soderstrom)(52:00) Center field (Pete Crow Armstrong, Ceddanne Rafaela, Jacob Young, Julio Rodriguez)(1:02:00) Right field (Fernando Tatis Jr., Sal Frelick, Corbin Carroll)(1:07:00) Will Brick and high school catchers(1:22:00) Minor league gold glove candidates(1:37:00) Grady Emerson & Jacob Lombard vs. Max Clark & Walker Jenkins(1:42:00) LSU and Tennessee 2027 recruiting classesDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about the Arizona Fall League and the degree to which it matters. The two pick out a few players they are excited about in the league, then turn to Ben's piece on hitting standouts in the Dominican Summer League. The two compare and contrast top prospects like Josuar Gonzalez and Elian Peña to draftees like Ethan Holliday and Eli Willits, then take listener questions including: should we give Angel Genao and Cam Collier mulligans? Is Joshua Baez's breakout legit? And what do we look for when trying to find out if a prospect is breaking out? —Time Stamps(0:00) Intro(3:30) Arizona Fall League(14:00) Statcast data in the fall league(15:30) Names we are excited about in the AFL(22:10) Dominican Summer League Standouts(24:00) Josuar Gonzalez(27:00) Josuar Gonzalez vs. Eli Willits(31:20) Juan Sanchez(34:00) Diego Tornes(39:00) Diego Tornes vs. Tate Southisene(45:00) Elian Pena vs. 2025 drafted shortstops(50:00) Angel Genoa & Cam Collier's stock(57:00) Joshua Baez(1:04:00) How do we identify huge prospect jumps like Cam Schlittler's?Do you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ben and Carlos talk about the Tony Vitello to the majors rumors and think about the skills that would or wouldn't translate from the college game to the majors. Should MLB teams be looking for more managers from the college ranks? And why don't we see more MLB/college coaching crossover in general? The two then discuss which of the current MLB manager vacancies would be the most and least appealing.—Time Stamps(0:00) Cam Schlittler(10:30) Tony Vitello, big league manager?(17:00) The value of college head coaches vs. MLB managers(25:00) Lifestyle of college jobs vs. MLB managers(37:30) The media scrutiny of an MLB manager(40:00) Should major league teams recruit college coaches more frequently?(51:00) Pat Murphy as a successful example(55:00) Which MLB manager jobs are the most/least appealing?(1:02:00) The Rockies & the Coors Field problem(1:09:30) A question about MLB ball adjustmentsDo you have feedback for the show or want to ask us a question? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com.Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Newsletter: Fringe AverageBaseball America WebsiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy