Future Projection — A Baseball America Podcast

Ben and Carlos break down the 2025 MLB Draft combine. The two talk about standout players, what the event was like, what value teams get from it and get into the specifics of names like Brandon Compton, Quentin Young, Kayson Cunningham, Marcos Paz and others. After that Ben highlights a few players who could be rising on our top 100 list, then gets further into the weeds on a handful of complex league standouts who are hot out of the gate.Time Stamps:(0:00) Carlos vs. Phoenix heat(6:00) Brandon Compton (9:30) Quentin Young (15:00) Kayson Cunningham(19:00) How much does the combine move the needle?(23:00) Marcos Paz(27:00) Pitch data importance(30:00) Joshua Flores(40:00) Quality of the combine in year five(50:00) Thoughts on athletic testing(57:00) Top 100 Risers(58:00) Travis Sykora(101:50) Zyhir Hope(1:05:00) Eduardo Quintero(1:10:00) Complex League StandoutsDo you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 Ben's most recent scouting trip, where he saw some of the top 2026, 2027 and 2028 class high school players in the country. The two talk about a handful of the biggest major league promotions of the last week, think about Jacob Wilson's season and how that could impact how we view Marek Houston, talk through MacKenzie Gore's season and the ETAs of high-end prep arms and also discuss the upcoming MLB Draft combine.–Time Stamps(0:00) Ben's 2026 scouting experience(6:00) Gio Rojas as a standout prep lefty(10:25) MacKenzie Gore & HS pitching timelines(19:30) Denton Lord, Noah Wilson, Malachi Washington(23:05) Cole Prosek(27:30) Standout 2027 names(38:30) Kaiden McCarthy(42:30) Big league promotions(45:00) Jacob Misiorowski(48:00) Kyle Teel(51:00) Kayson Cunningham(56:00) Jacob Wilson vs. Marek Houston(1:05:00) Christian Moore(1:08:00) MLB Combine talkDo you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 and talk about the insanity that has been college baseball through regional play (both on and off the field). The two briefly discuss the resurgence of Dodgers outfielder Mike Sirota and then discuss Royals first baseman (outfielder?) Jac Caglianone and what to expect with his big league promotion. After that it's all things 2025 international prospects. With Ben's international review series dropping on the site, Carlos picks his brain on the players to know and the teams with the most exciting groups of players.–Time Stamps(0:00) NCAA tournament drama(11:00) College pitcher workloads(21:00) Mike Sirota's resurgence(31:30) Jac Caglianone's big league promotion(38:00) International Review talk(43:30) Arms with improved stuff(47:30) Royals prospects(51:00) Red Sox prospects(58:30) Is this year's IFA pitching crop better than normal?(1:01:00) Who are the top names in the class? (1:05:00) Where do Elian Pena and Josuar Gonzalez stack up compared to top draft prospects?(1:10:00) Catchers to know(1:12:15) Top Venezuelan names(1:16:15) The most exciting defenders in the classDo you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 to talk about the recently released BA 500 draft list. Ben peppers Carlos with questions about the class and where it stands. Both hosts talk about who they would personally take 1-1 if they were in the driver's seat, then discuss a host of other draft topics including: should the Angels consider a high school arm like Seth Hernandez and put him on the fast track? Who are we taking among the top college arms? Which bats should Pirates hitters be excited about? How exactly are we supposed to handle Jace Laviolette? Hitters down the board we're excited about, buzzy names beyond the first two rounds and a listener question about the best BP displays we've ever seen. –Time Stamps(0:00) Intro(2:50) Who would Carlos take No. 1(12:30) Who would Ben take No. 1(23:30) Separating the top college arms(39:00) Will the Angels buck their college trends for Seth Hernandez?(45:00) Which hitters should Pirates fans get excited about?(52:30) More questions about Jace LaViolette(1:03:00) Hitters beyond 20+ we like(1:17:00) Buzzy names further down the board(1:28:20) What is the loudest BP we've witnessed?Do you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 strides that Brewers righthander Jacob Misiorowski is making with his strike-throwing in the early parts of the 2025 season. The two move onto a number of up-arrow Blue Jays prospects, including recent first rounders shortstop Arjun Nimmala and righthander Trey Yesavage. After that the two dig into a mixed bag for the Rays, with good starts from 1B Xavier Isaac, OF Theo Gillen and others but some lingering questions with SS Carson Williams and INF Brayden Taylor.–Time Stamps(0:00) Intro(5:30) Jacob Misiorowski(19:00) Arjun Nimmala(26:30) Trey Yesavage(36:00) Johnny King(39:00) Rays(40:00) Carson Williams(44:00) Brayden Taylor(48:00) Xavier Isaac(55:00) Chandler Simpson, Tre Morgan(57:30) Theo Gillen, Brailer Guerrero, (1:03:30) Santiago Suarez, Jose UrbinaDo you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 teams are starting to feel like they have a better ability to evaluate draft classes and international signing classes quicker than in the past. They then talk about the Dodgers promoting Dalton Rushing and dig into a handful of exciting Mets prospects to know including righthanders Jonah Tong and Nolan McLean, recent first-round pick Carson Benge and former high school overslot signings AJ Ewing and Jacob Reimer. Ben also picks out a handful of early complex league performers to keep an eye on. –Time Stamps(0:00) Future Projection podcast feed question(3:00) Shorter timeline for judging drafts/IFAs(20:30) Dalton Rushing's promotion(30:00) Names of interest for the Dodgers in this year's draft?(41:40) Mets prospects(43:00) Jonah Tong(49:30) Nolan McLean(54:00) Brooklyn High-A prospects (1:07:00) Complex league talkDo you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 Baseball America's May Top 100 prospect update. Why we should be excited for the elite tier of shortstops in the class. Why Bubba chandler and Chase Burns have been so dominant. Jac Caglianone's improved swing decisions and a surface level line that is impressive but perhaps not even showing how good he's been. Questions about Konnor Griffin and Ethan Salas. CJ Kayfus as an elite batted ball angle hitter. Jurrangelo Cijntje's usage as a switch pitcher. And plenty more. –Time Stamps(1:00) Iterative lists(4:30) Elite shortstops: Jesus Made, Leo De Vries, Sebastian Walcott(17:00) Nitpicking Sebastian Walcott?(20:00) Bubba Chandler(28:00) Chase Burns(30:30) Walker Jenkins and Max Clark(44:30) Cooper Pratt, Cam Smith(48:30) Jac Caglianone(53:15) Moises Ballesteros(55:20) Zyhir Hope & Josue De Paula(1:00:00) Konnor Griffin(1:08:50) Lazaro Montes(1:10:00) Arjun Nimmala(1:14:00) CJ Kayfus(1:18:00) Luis Pena(1:21:00) Jurrangelo CijntjeDo you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 handful of big stuff, big physicality Yankees pitchers who are off to strong starts in the 2025 season. They briefly touch on George Lombard Jr. also living up to his preseason scouting hype in the early goings. After that the two talk about more Red Sox pitching prospects of note, this time those not named Brandon Clarke. After that the two talk about Nick Kurtz being promoted to the majors and discuss how fun the A's current young lineup is—and also appreciate their hits at the top of the draft in recent years between Kurtz and Jacob Wilson. The two discuss Dodgers righthander Sean Linan's crazy changeup, then take a listener question about surprising 2025 draft performances. –Time Stamps(0:30) Opening banter(4:10) Yankees power arms(17:00) George Lombard Jr.(23:00) More Red Sox arms to get excited about(36:00) Nick Kurtz and the A's(45:00) Jace LaViolette's resurgence(50:00) Jacob Wilson(52:30) Sean Linan and crazy changeups(1:00:00) Which draft prospect has surprised you the most?Do you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 look around the league and talk about a number of prospects off to hot and cold starts to to begin the 2025 season. They talk briefly about how they think about prospects repeating levels, then get into a number of listener questions including Billy Carlson comps, how much we can take away from lineup orders and whether or not Ethan Holliday can separate himself as the clear 1-1 in this year's draft.–Time Stamps(1:00) NHSI talk(7:30) Red Sox LHP Brandon Clarke(15:20) Guardians RHP Braylon Doughty(19:00) Cubs SS Cristian Hernandez(27:30) Mets SS AJ Ewing(34:00) Marlins LHP Robby Snelling(38:00) Brewers RHP Logan Henderson (41:00) Blue Jays RHP Khal Stephen(44:00) White Sox OF Braden Montgomery (49:00) Guardians 1B CJ Kayfus & D-backs OF Slade Caldwell(53:00) White Sox SS Colson Montgomery(56:00) Nationals OF Elijah Green (58:00) Nationals SS Seaver King(1:02:00) Marlins SS Carter Johnson(1:05:00) Billy Carlson comps?(1:09:50) Can minor league batting order tell you about a player?(1:12:30) Can Ethan Holliday separate himself as the 1-1?Do you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 Red Sox-Brewers trade that sent righthander Quinn Priester to Milwaukee and netted Boston outfielder Yophery Rodriguez and a supplemental round 2025 draft pick. The two then talk about the number of teams with multiple picks in this year's draft and how that could impact draft strategy. The two continue to talk through the best options for the first overall pick, wonder whether the Nationals will continue a trend of heavy discounts at the top spot and mention a few sleepers. They then talk about hot starts for A's first baseman Nick Kurtz and Twins lefthander Dasan Hill and close with some discussion about the Blue Jays' $500 million extension of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. –Time Stamps(1:00) NHSI talk(3:50) Red Sox/Brewers trade (10:00) Draft talk(21:00) Draft pick trading(24:00) 1-1 pick speculation(37:00) Sleeper for 1-1(49:00) Nick Kurtz(55:00) Dasan Hill(1:00:00) Vladimir Guerrero Jr.Do you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 latest trend in bat technology and whether or not people need to be concerned about “torpedo bats,” then get into a few high-profile prep pitchers in the 2025 class. First, is this the year that we have a high school righthander taken with the first overall pick? California righthander Seth Hernandez might have a chance to make history. Meanwhile Illinois lefthander Jack Bauer already has, by touching 102 mph as a high schooler and joining a miniscule group of prep flamethrowers. The two also talk through contract extensions for Kristian Campbell and Garrett Crochet with the Red Sox, and Jackson Merrill with the Padres. They then continue to wonder when Roman Anthony will get his deserved big league callup. —Time Stamps(0:00) Torpedo bats(18:00) Seth Hernandez's 1-1 case(38:00) Jack Bauer's unprecedented velocity(51:00) Extension talkDo you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 MLB opening day and offer their predictions for the 2025 season. After that the two talk about Baseball Savant's new batting stance data and wonder what teams and players can do with it. They examine PPI eligible players this year and then take a handful of listener questions. Time Stamps(0:00) MLB opening day talk(6:00) AL East(10:00) AL Central(16:00) AL West(20:00) Thoughts on Cam Smith(25:00) NL East(30:00) NL Central(35:30) NL West (43:00) Crystal Ball Questions(1:16:20) Baseball Savant batting stance data(1:29:00) PPI Eligible players(1:35:00) Listener questionsSupport 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 the top of the composition of the 2025 draft class compares with 2024. The two discuss Coby Mayo's comments about being reassigned to Triple-A Norfolk for what will be his third year at the level. The bulk of the show is spent on a discussion about “scouting the scouts.” What's the value? What are the risks associated with it forming or changing your own opinions on players? They then talk about a listener question regarding technology's impact on scouting. —Time Stamps(0:00) Housekeeping on the 2025 draft rankings process(5:30) This year's HS shortstops compared to Konnor Griffin(7:30) Jamie Arnold vs. Hagen Smith vs. Chase Burns(10:00) The composition of the top of the draft(17:00) Coby Mayo(28:40) Scouting the scouts(47:00) How much has technology changed the game?Do you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 chat about their expectations for the Red Sox in 2025 and how quickly the big three trio of Roman Anthony, Marcelo Mayer and Kristian Campbell will be integrated. After that the two discuss Jackson Jobe's experiments with two new pitches this spring and talk about narrow and deep pitch arsenals. They talk about first-round draft names moving in opposite directions: Tennessee lefthander Liam Doyle and Texas A&M outfielder Jace Laviolette. After that the two talk about Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s $500 million contract pursuit and answer a handful of listener questions. —Time Stamps(2:00) Red Sox trio going off(13:40) AL East competition(15:00) Jackson Jobe's developing pitch mix(22:00) Liam Doyle(39:30) Jace Laviolette(54:00) Vladimir Guerrero Jr.(1:05:00) Listener mailbagDo you have a question or feedback for the show? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 follow up on last episode's conversation on the ABS system and how players and coaches are taking it so far. The two then talk about the spring breakout rosters being released before pivoting into Ben's recent trip to the Dominican Republic to scout 'em up. After that, the two talk about a handful of prospects who are making noise in spring training, including the Yankees duo of George Lombard Jr. and Spencer Jones, plus our first pro look at flamethrowing righthander Chase Burns.Finally the two talk about the wide open nature of the top of the 2025 draft class, talk through a few of their current favorites for the first overall pick (plus a few dark horse options) and then take listener questions. —Time Stamps(0:00) ABS follow up(12:00) Spring breakout series (15:00) Ben's trip to the DR(37:00) George Lombard Jr.(44:00) A Spencer Jones swing change(51:30) Chase Burns(1:01:00) The 1-1 race in the draft(1:25:00) Ben's dark horse pick(1:33:00) Listener questionsDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 opening weekend of college baseball and get into a discussion of what they are looking for in these early season looks? What's impactful and valuable in terms of evaluating a player's overall profile and projecting them for the future? Why is it easier to have quicker takeaway from pitchers? What are the useful leading indicators to be aware of? And why are we so interested in body composition and mechanics? All that plus an early preview of a loaded 2026 high school player class and some fun discussing gripes and critiques of baseball broadcasts.—Time Stamps:(0:00) Hot EV college baseball environment(6:10) What do you take away from opening weekend?(12:00) Why you can pick up on pitcher changes quicker(13:00) Tennessee LHP Liam Doyle's jump in stuff(16:00) What is early season signal vs. noise?(21:00) Why do hitters take longer to figure out?(26:00) Why we don't care about early results(31:30) What we're watching for with defense(40:00) Seeing players to ask better questions(57:30) MLB spring training ABS system thoughts(1:02:00) Broadcast gripes & critiques(1:18:00) Previewing the loaded 2026 prep classDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 are joined by Baseball America national college writer Jacob Rudner for our third annual amateur player draft. The game is simple: among 2025 eligible players each writer attempts to put together the best roster of players including one catcher, two corner infielders, two middle infielders, three outfielders, four pitchers and one utility spot. The three draft their teams and talk about the players, the strategy, the strengths and weaknesses of the class and more to celebrate the opening day of college baseball. —Time Stamps:(0:00) Welcoming Jacob and overview of the draft rules(4:30) Draft starts(12:40) Ben takes a famous prepster(20:00) A well-rounded college outfielder(21:00) The best pure hitter in the class?(27:30) Catchers starting to fly off the board(31:10) Ben finally takes a pitcher(36:40) A tweener SEC infielder(42:40) Back-to-back college mashers(48:20) Ben tackles the prep pitching demographic(58:00) Jacob grabs a big power prep bat(1:05:20) Questions about the second and third tier arms(1:12:30) Full team rundowns & draft thoughtsDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoJacob's Twitter: @JacobRudnerBaseball 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

With Baseball America's 2025 prospect lists updated ahead of the season, Ben and Carlos pick breakout players they're excited about for each of the 15 American League teams.—Time Stamps:(0:00) Farm system talent rankings(11:00) Astros (16:45) Mariners(22:25) Rangers(27:11) Athletics(31:40) Angels (36:45) Guardians(41:00) Tigers(45:30) Royals(50:45) Twins(54:45) White Sox(1:00:00) Yankees(1:06:03) Orioles(1:10:10) Red Sox(1:15:00) Rays (1:21:30) Blue JaysDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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

With Baseball America's 2025 prospect lists updated ahead of the season, Ben and Carlos pick breakout players they're excited about for each of the 15 National League teams.—Time Stamps:(5:00) Dodgers (9:45) Padres (13:45) Diamondbacks (17:30) Giants (22:12) Rockies (27:15) Brewers (32:15) Cubs (33:15) Cardinals (41:00) Reds (45:20) Pirates (49:50) Phillies (54:07) Braves(58:20) Mets (1:03:30) Nationals (1:06:45) Marlins Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 work through the updated 2025 Top 100 Prospects List and talk through players in each bucket of the list. Who are they “buying and selling” in each of the tiers of prospects? After working through the list the two talk about a few players who just missed but could easily be on and then take a few listener questions including: the most polarizing players, thoughts on PPI eligibility and the best places in the country to live for baseball watching.—Time Stamps(1:30) Kristian Campbell(10:50) Dylan Crews (13:00) Concerns for Andrew Painter(18:00) Thoughts on the talent of the top 20(20:00) Buys: Jesus Made, Marcelo Mayer, Leo De Vries(23:11) Sells: Carson Williams, Kumar Rocker(26:15) Buys: Travis Bazzana, Sebastian Walcott(30:30) Sells: Coby Mayo, Chase Burns(32:00) Buys: Jaison Chourio, Ethan Salas(37:30) Sell: Colson Montgomery(40:30) Buys: Chase DeLauter, Charlie Condon(43:20) Sells: Cooper Pratt, Jacob Misiorowski(49:30) Buys: Zyhir Hope, Drake Baldwin(52:40) Sells: Bryce Rainer, Konnor Griffin(55:30) Buys: Brayden Taylor, Moises Ballesteros(59:20) Sells: Moises Ballesteros, Thayron Liranzo(1:03:40) Buys: Franklin Arias, Blake Mitchell(1:06:45) Sells: Blake Mitchell, Tre' Morgan(1:12:15) Back of the list conversation(1:19:00) Polarizing prospects(1:23:30) Thoughts on Top 100s influencing PPI eligibility (1:25:30) Best places to live for baseballDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 show to break down the chaos of the 2025 international signing day. While Roki Sasaki hasn't signed (as of this podcast recording at least) with a team yet, the ripple effects of his status in the market has certainly created waves. Ben gives listeners a detailed breakdown of what's happened and what might happen in the future, he breaks down a signing class he's particularly excited about and also answers a few listener emails on the IFA market.—Time Stamps(0:15) Signing day update(3:40) Ben's thought on the Roki Sasaki situation(8:00) The role of pitching development for Roki(15:00) How big is Roki's bonus going to be? (18:30) Dodgers losing key names from their class(20:30) Will the Padres and Blue Jays lose players?(25:00) Will team flipping become more common in the future?(30:00) What happened with Giants signee Josuar Gonzalez?(34:30) More players signing out of high school from Japan?(43:00) An exciting class of Red Sox international signingsDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 back on the show for the first time in 2025 to talk about our recently released scouting survey, Carlos's 2020 redraft and Ben's work prepping for international signing day. Up first, the two talk through some of the results from our offseason scouting survey, which was an attempt to gauge the pulse of the scouting industry in the midst of what many scouts are calling a brutal offseason for the field.After that, the conversation flips to the 2020 redraft that Carlos wrote over the holidays. The two talk about why the covid draft was so challenging and whether there are lessons to be learned from it.  The show closes with Ben's assessment of the 2025 international signing period that's about to open on Jan. 15. He gives us his latest on what's happening with Roki Sasaki and explores a few potential scenarios that could unfold with other clubs after he signs.—Time Stamps(2:30) Scouting survey(10:00) The importance of multiple looks and history(15:00) The value of hitting big(20:00) Bucking the veteran scout stereotype(27:00) The value of communication(33:00) Challenges of quantifying data and weighting it(47:00) 2020 Redraft(57:00) Players can change rapidly(1:05:00) Roki Sasaki drama(1:16:20) Ben's Roki signing scenarioDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 wrap up their final series of organization overviews following the 2024 season with the American League West.The two open the show with a conversation about the process behind Baseball America's annual Prospect Handbook—which you can purchase here as a last-minute Christmas gift for yourself or a loved one!—and then get into the organization rundowns.The two fawn over Seattle's crop of young, up-the-middle hitting talent in one of the deepest and strongest systems they've covered yet, then get into an interesting discussion about who's No. 2 in the system: the Rangers or the A's? After some prospect gushing about Nick Kurtz, Kumar Rocker and Sebastian Walcott, things take a turn for the worse in regards to the Angels and Astros, who seem to be battling it out for the dubious honor of No. 30 org ranking.—Time Stamps(0:30) Prospect Handbook process(7:00) AL West overview(8:30) Mariners(33:00) A's(47:00) Rangers(1:08:00) Angels(1:18:00) AstrosDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 Garrett Crochet trade and break down AL Central farm systems on today's episode. Ben lays out his case for why the Red Sox nailed this move while acknowledging a strong return going in the other direction for the White Sox. That turns into a larger conversation about the strength of the White Sox farm system, and the two generally have positive things to say about the American League Central farms as a whole—with one notable exception. At the end of the show the two take listener questions including: How much does Cam Cannarella's shoulder impact his draft stock? What do we think about the draft lottery hurting the worst teams? What do we think about the Willy Adames signing and the draft capital given up to do it? Will Roki Sasaki have a deal done before January 15? —Time Stamps(4:00) Garret Crochet trade(10:00) White Sox return(19:00) AL Central teams(20:30) White Sox(34:30) Guardians(52:00) Tigers(1:12:00) Twins(1:30:10) Royals(1:39:00) Listener QuestionsDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 “Golden At-Bat” idea that has been floating around baseball circles, before dismissing it and moving into baseball topics you might actually care about—this week the AL East Organization Overviews. The two talk about how strong the Red Sox farm system currently is thanks to an excellent core of hitters in the upper levels of the minors, then get into the tough-to-separate depth of the Rays. After that, the two talk about Baltimore's still-solid, but diminishing farm and then wonder whether the Yankees or the Blue Jays are the weakest of the division. After the team-by-team overviews the two take a few listener questions, including one on Red Sox infielder Yoeilin Cespedes and the degree to which we pay attention to body language when scouting.—Time Stamps(1:30) Golden At-Bat Thoughts(8:30) Red Sox(31:00) Rays(51:30) Orioles(1:05:00) Yankees & Blue Jays(1:30:30) Listener MailbagDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 Ben's recently released international bonus board for the 2025 signing class. Ben talks through his process this year and the specific challenges that persist when ranking international prospects and the two talk more about how Roki Sasaki can and will shake things up when he signs.After that they discuss the top-ranked prospect in the 2026 draft class, Grady Emerson flipping his college commitment from TCU to Texas. Does it even matter if he's not likely to get to campus? What does this say about Texas? And how does Emerson compare to the top high school players in the 2025 draft class and some of the best high school players in recent years?The two talk briefly about the Dodgers signing Blake Snell, then open up a bigger-than-average listener mailbag that hits on: the Astros signing older international players; whether or not Brewers outfielder Jose Anderson should get lumped in with players like Jesus Made; the value of international competition when scouting players; the Braves internal shortstop options; and more.—Time Stamps(1:30) Ben's International Bonus Board(11:50) The large Roki Sasaki caveat(18:30) The diminished Cuban talent pool(21:30) Grady Emerson(35:00) Emerson vs. other top high school players(42:00) Blake Snell's deal with the Dodgers(48:00) Astros and older international signings(54:00) Why is Brewers OF Jose Anderson not lumped in with Jesus Made?(57:00) How do we value international competition?(1:05:00) Do the Braves have any internal SS candidates?(1:09:00) Where will IFA players rank in their team's top 30s?Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 Jac Caglianone's return to the mound in the 2025 season and how they view him as a two-way player moving forward, as well as why people should stop referencing Shohei Ohtani as a comp for him—or any other player. After that the two continue their organizational overview series with the National League West, starting with a pair of strong farm systems with the Dodgers and Rockies, and then with a trio of more questionable groups with the Padres, D-Backs and Giants. The two open up the listener mailbag at the end of the show with question that include: sleeper bats in the 2025 draft class, international signing tax implications, potential issues with international players coming to the states and how the nitty gritty of international signings happens. —Time Stamps(0:01) Opening Banter(5:00) Jac Caglianone(14:00) NL West Overviews(14:30) Dodgers(17:30) Dalton Rushing(22:00) Zyhir Hope(28:00) Eduardo Quintero(30:00) Kellon Lindsey(32:00) Rockies(34:00) Chase Dollander(36:00) Charlie Condon(41:20) Adael Amador(43:00) Zac Veen & Robert Calaz(47:30) Padres(49:00) Don't jump ship on Ethan Salas(52:00) Ethan Salas vs. Leo De Vries(55:00) Deeper Padres names(1:02:00) D-backs(1:05:30) Slade Caldwell(1:08:00) Adrian Del Castillo(1:12:00) Druw Jones(1:15:15) Giants(1:18:00) Dakota Jordan(1:21:00) Solid international moves for San Francisco(1:23:00) Carson Whisenhunt(1:25:00) Listener MailbagDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 all things Roki Sasaki for the first ~30 minutes of today's episode. How would we line up the pitching trio of Roki, Paul Skenes and Yoshinobu Yamamoto? What do we think about Sasaki's pitch mix? He's the best pitching prospect since… who? And how is Sasaki going to create chaos for the 2025 international signing class? After that the two continue their organization overviews with the NL Central. —Time Stamps(0:00) Opening Banter(1:50) Roki Sasaki convo begins(4:30) Sasaki vs. Paul Skenes and Yoshinobu Yamamoto(6:30) Sasaki's arsenal(13:00) A pitching-heavy top 100 list(16:00) When will Sasaki sign?(23:00) What happens to the international players of the team Roki signs with?(28:30) Where do we want Sasaki to sign?(30:30) NL Central Org Overviews(33:30) Cubs(46:00) Reds(1:06:00) Brewers(1:24:00) Pirates vs. Cardinals Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 Cesar Altagracia age fraud story and Ben gives more information about the state of the international mark as well as details of MLB's expanded investigations into players falsifying ages.After that, the two start their organization overview series, beginning with the National League East. With updated top 10s now live at Baseball America for each team in the division, Ben and Carlos talk through each team and try to get a feel for the state of the farm. At the end of the show the two take listener questions with topics that include a power-armed 2026 college name to know, whether or not Billy Carlson will be a top-five pick next year and a question about 2024 Latin American signees with the best usable in-game power.—Time Stamps(0:00) Opening banter(5:00) Cesar Altagracia story (link Ben's in the show notes)(10:00) Is an international draft the answer?(19:00) NL East Org Overviews(21:00) Nationals(39:00) Phillies(57:00) Mets(1:12:00) Marlins(1:28:30) Braves(1:41:00) Listener QuestionsDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 give their thoughts on the conclusion of the 2024 World Series. The two talk about Gerrit Cole's pitching efforts throughout the postseason, the disappointing efforts from superstars Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani, talk through early sleeper teams for the 2025 season and wonder about the coming Juan Soto sweepstakes.The two then talk through the future for the Dodgers and Yankees after this matchup, and touch on a few impressive prospects like Dalton Rushing and Zyhir Hope and also about young established big leaguers like Anthony Volpe and Austin Wells. After that the two pivot to the 2025 high school recruiting class and a few big moves on that beat, including flipped commitments from Billy Carlson and Kayson Cunningham and dig into Ben's piece looking into the rate at which elite high school players make it to campus.—Time Stamps(0:00) World Series thoughts(7:00) Gerrit Cole(11:00) Shohei Ohtani & Aaron Judge(19:00) Early sleeper teams for 2025(21:00) Juan Soto sweepstakes(30:00) Dalton Rushing(35:00) Zyhir Hope(45:00) The Yankees outlook(52:30) Billy Carlson & HS recruits(57:00) How often do HS players get to college campuses?Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 record a milestone episode of the Future Projection podcast and reminisce on the origins of the show that started back in 2021. The two then move into World Series mode and talk through a highly-anticipated and star-laden Dodgers-Yankees matchup. The two talk about Giancarlo Stanton's consistent great performance in the postseason and then contrast the results that Juan Soto and Aaron Judge have had to this point in their postseason careers. Which would you rather face in crunch time? Then the talk turns to pitching and whether or not starters or relievers will wind up being more impactful in this series before the two debate whether or not the Dodgers are a dynasty. How do the Dodgers from 2013 to now compare to the Braves team that won 14-straight divisions in the 90s and 2000s but managed just one championship? After that the conversation turns to Andrew Painter's re-emergence in the Arizona Fall League and talk about his prospect status at the moment, briefly discuss Noble Meyer's control struggles in 2024 and then get into a surprisingly thorough conversation about MLB's new experiment in the league: a checked-swing challenge system.—Time Stamps(1:00) The origins of Future Projection(10:30) The start of World Series talk(16:00) Giancarlo Stanton in the playoffs(18:00) Juan Soto's consistency in the postseason(24:00) Aaron Judge vs. Juan Soto as postseason hitters(28:00) The pitching of this World Series matchup(33:00) 90s Braves vs. this Dodgers “dynasty”?(40:00) What exactly counts as being a dynasty?(43:00) Shohei Ohtani's multi-million dollar 50-50 ball(45:00) Andrew Painter in the AFL(50:00) Noble Meyer's control struggles in 2024(57:00) The new checked-swing challenge system—Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 show to talk about the four teams standing this postseason and think through the scouting and player development lessons that can be learned from them. The two talk about Cleveland's ability to identify and develop domestic pitchers which helped lead to one of the best bullpens in the game, how the Dodgers' investments on and off the field have led to sustained success, examine a strong up-the-middle position player core that the Yankees have developed and then use the Mets as an example of why you need to be patient with international prospects.Other topics include postseason pitching strategy, Austin Wells' going from catching question mark to defensive standout, the tremendous offense from Mark Vientos, and a listener question about international prospects who Ben expects big things from in 2025.—Time Stamps(2:30) Where are the starters?(6:00) Financials of the final four teams(10:30) The Guardians(25:10) Cleveland's still-strong farm(27:00) The Dodgers(33:00) LA's reputation for player development(39:00) The Yankees(42:00) Austin Wells' defensive transformation—or misevaluation?(53:00) The Mets(54:00) Being patient with international prospects(1:02:20) David Stearns' impact(1:07:30) An international listener question—Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 show and talk about new leadership moves for both the Giants and the Cardinals organizations. Ben wonders if Giants fans should be wary about Buster Posey taking charge in San Francisco given lack of extensive front office experience and the two also discuss the changes that could be coming for the Cardinals in the future with Chaim Bloom set to become president of baseball operations in 2026. Where do both orgs stand with their current farm systems? How has each team drafted and done on the international signing market in recent years? After that the two talk about Quinn Mathews and his development as a pitcher, compare him with some of the best lefthanded pitching prospects in the game, including Marlins southpaw Thomas White, and move onto a conversation about Paul Skenes and the state of the Pirates. Was anyone particularly close to Skenes in our Rookie of the Year race? And what about those Yoshinobu Yamamoto debates before the 2024 season got started? The two then talk about the draft lottery odds being set, praise the new system that no longer incentivizes tanking and get into a trio of listener questions including: the biggest adjustments from Triple-A to the majors, thoughts on Phillies prospect Eduardo Tait and the rarity of big leaguers who perform better in the majors than the minors.—Time Stamps(2:00) Buster Posey taking charge in San Francisco(11:00) State of the Giants system(21:00) Chaim Bloom as the Pobo in waiting in St. Louis(27:00) State of the Cardinals system(31:00) Cardinals draft history(38:00) Quinn Mathews development(44:00) Thomas White vs. Quinn Mathews(49:00) Paul Skenes 2024 season(58:00) The Pirates system(1:08:00) Pittsburgh's of international players(1:12:00) Draft lottery talk(1:22:00) Listener questions—Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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

With Arizona Fall League rosters announced, Ben and Carlos talk through some of the prospects they are most looking forward to seeing. From obvious Top 100 names like Colt Emerson, Ethan Salas and Leo De Vries, to players coming off of injury riddled seasons like Chase DeLauter and Jett Williams, and other players with huge tools like Zyhir Hope and Jac Caglianone. After that the two talk about Kristian Campbell being named the 2024 BA Minor League Player of the Year and trace his history as a prospect. What are the lessons we can learn from his player development path and who are other prospects with similar skill sets or untapped potential who might be able to follow that path? At the end of the show the two take listener questions about Jackson Jobe, offensive prospects to know for fantasy purposes in the 2025 and 2026 draft classes and Top 100 prospects poised to leap forward on the list in the future.—Time Stamps(1:30) Arizona Fall League overview(3:30) AFL players we're most excited to see(7:00) Chase DeLauter(12:00) Zyhir Hope(21:00) Colt Emerson & Cole Young(28:00) Jett Williams(33:00) Jac Caglianone(45:00) Kristian Campbell(59:30) Players who could follow his path(1:00:00) Jacob Wilson & Nolan Schanuel(1:03:00) Jaison Chourio(1:05:00) Cooper Pratt(1:07:00) Joshua Kuroda-Grauer(1:09:00) Henry Mendez & Mike Boeve(1:13:00) Nacho Alvarez & Chase Meidroth(1:15:00) Deep Sleepers From The DSL (1:19:00) Listener Questions—Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 their report writing process and then get into a conversation about standout 2024 international signees. Which players have been better than expected? Which teams seem to have particularly strong classes after a first look in the Dominican Summer League, and which teams in general scout international prospects particularly well? Ben breaks that all down. After that the two talk about college scholarships and the potential for rosters shrinking and wonder how that will impact players, coaches, team construction, college baseball parity and the high school recruiting process. The show closes with a great listener question about the easiest and most difficult tools to scout.—Time Stamps(1:00) The report writing process(12:00) Being critical of an older prospect vs younger prospect(15:00) Why no prospects have perfect reports(19:00) Jurrickson Profar's career(24:00) International talk starts(28:00) Brewers & Jesus Made(30:00) Jose Anderson(32:00) Guardians & Gabriel Rodriguez(34:00) Robert Arias(35:00) Juneiker Caceres(37:00) Giants & Johnny Level(39:00) Oliver Tejada & Argenis Cayama(41:00) Cardinals & Branneli Franco(42:00) Rainiel Rodriguez(44:00) Which teams do the best on the international market?(47:00) Are international scouts safe from job cuts?(50:00) College scholarships and roster cutting(556:00) How even is the college landscape(1:01:00) How this impacts high school recruiting(1:12:00) Smaller schools taking a player development route(1:20:00) Listener question on scouting tools—Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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

The importance of scouting and projecting frames is the main portion of the show in today's episode. Ben wonders whether or not we are too critical of superficial “bad body” players who actually have proven hitting chops, while Carlos talks about how projecting bodies might be more important for defensive profiles than anything that happens in the box. The two discuss early physical developers, hyper skinny frames, whether or not they weight physicality more or less for hitters vs. pitchers and more. After that the two talk about how impressive Cardinals 2024 first rounder JJ Wetherholt has been in pro ball, then dig into a few other notable 24 debut performers. The two revisit their preseason 2024 drafted teams to see who has panned out better so far and then talk about the major league player of the year race. Is Aaron Judge's offensive dominance too much for any other player to challenge him or is Bobby Witt Jr.'s well-rounded game enough to make a defensible case for the honor. The two then talk about a few standout defensive rookies—Jacob Young and Masyn Winn—and Carlos offers up a 2025 draftee player comp to Winn to see what Ben thinks.—Time Stamps(1:00) Fall ball changes(4:00) Scout jobs being cut(14:30) How scouting bodies matters (Moises Ballesteros, Dasan Hill, Michael Mercado, Braden Shewmake, Alejandro Kirk, Kyle Schwarber)(26:30) Early physical developers(39:40) Deceptive body types(42:00) Body types for hitters vs. pitchers(48:00) JJ Wetherholt(52:00) 2024 Debut hitters(1:08:00) Major League Player of the Year race(1:15:00) Giancarlo Stanton's HOF case(1:22:00) Jacob Young & Masyn Winn(1:30:00) Nationals young coreDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 show to talk through our most recent top 100 update that dropped this week, including notable up-arrow moves from a number of Red Sox prospects—most prominently Roman Anthony and Kristian Campbell.The two work through a number of risers on the list, including Chase Dollander, Kumar Rocker, Alejandro Rosario and Tyler Black, then also talk about a couple of players who have slid or fallen out of the list entirely. Ben makes a point on potentially overvaluing athleticism in baseball, the two discuss whether or not Rhett Lowder's pure stuff is underrated, wonder how much margin for error Thomas Harrington has and take a listener email about draft pick trading.—Time Stamps(1:00) Thoughts on the top 100(4:30) Roman Anthony as a complete hitter(7:30) Marcelo Mayer vs. Roman Anthony(12:00) Kristian Campbell's ascension(19:00) Jackson Jobe and Chase Dollander as the top arms(27:30) Kumar Rocker's return(35:00) Is Rhett Lowder's stuff underrated?(37:00) Ben's Rhett Lowder comp(41:00) Alejandro Rosario(45:00) Travis Sykora(51:00) Tyler Black(52:00) Spencer Jones (54:00) Kevin McGonigle(55:00) Athleticism vs. hitting ability(1:00:00) Thomas Harrington (1:06:00) Leodalis De Vries (1:10:00) Bryce Eldridge(1:13:00) Listener email on pick tradesDo you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 are back on the mic to talk about their travels and the prospects they've seen over the last few weeks and months of the summer showcase circuit. Ben breaks down a few high-upside pitching prospects from the 2026 class who wowed him this summer and Carlos does the same for two prep righties in the upcoming 2025 high school class. The two wonder if spin rate monsters are becoming increasingly common, try and see where Seth Hernandez stacks up with recent elite pitching prospects, talk through a handful of talented two-way players and more. The show closes with a listener email about the top international prospects from the most recent class, and how Ben would line those players up in a theoretical international draft.—Time Stamps(1:00) Curmudgeons in baseball(5:00) Style of play vs. talent of players(8:00) Randy Arozerena having friends(10:00) What have we been up to?(11:30) Area Code Games as Ben's favorite event(15:00) MLB Breakthrough Series at the Area Code Games(18:30) Sean Mack(20:00) Are spin rate monsters becoming more common?(26:00) Standout summer players(27:30) Savion Sims(30:40) Trey Rangel(33:00) Seth Hernandez(36:00) Where does Seth Hernandez rank in terms of elite pitching prospects?(41:00) Landon Harmon(43:00) Kruz Schoolcraft, Billy Carlson and two-way players(50:00) Dean Moss as one of the most disciplined hitters in the class(56:00) Kayson Cunningham, Gavin Fien, Eli Willits as USA standouts(1:03:00) Listener email about international prospectsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/future-projection-a-baseball-america-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It's almost draft day, and with that Ben and Carlos are joined by Peter Flaherty for a joint draft/Future Projection episode where the team does their best to break down round one for each team in the game. We go through every team in the first round and talk through their potential options for this year's draft, talk through draft strategy, debate players, talk through team philosophies and much more. Buckle up, this is a long one and will hopefully get you ready for draft day.—Time Stamps(2:35) Guardians(11:30) Who would we take at 1?(17:30) Reds(19:00) Why is Jac Caglianone so polarizing for us?(25:00) Rockies(27:20) Which pitcher would you take at 3 for the Rockies?(31:00) A's(37:00) White Sox(42:00) Royals(46:00) Cardinals(50:00) Angels(52:30) Trey Yesavage as a polished and fast-moving arm(56:00) Pirates(59:00) What's the knock on Nick Kurtz?(1:04:00) Nationals(1:06:00) Bryce Rainer vs. Konnor Griffin(1:10:30) Tigers(1:13:00) Red Sox(1:18:00) What arms make sense for Boston if the top three are gone?(1:20:00) Giants(1:21:00) Cubs(1:25:00) Mariners(1:27:00) Jurrangelo Cijntje vs. Brody Brecht(1:31:00) Marlins(1:33:00) Brewers(1:38:00) Rays & Mets (1:40:00) Blue Jays &Twins(1:44:00) Orioles(1:45:00) Dodgers(1:48:00) Braves(1:53:00) Padres(1:55:30) Yankees(1:59:00) Phillies(2:01:00) Astros(2:03:00) D-backs(2:05:00) Rangers(2:07:00) Players we are higher and lower on—Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 what they've been up to over the last month. Ben's been focused on the start of the summer showcase season and provides an early preview of the 2025 and 2026 high school classes, while Carlos breaks down his experience at this year's MLB Draft combine and talks about some late-process 2024 draft class notes.The two briefly then talk about some of the more prominent up-arrow prospects on our recently released midseason top 100 update including: Tigers pure hitter Kevin McGonigle, A's shortstop and contact savant Jacob Wilson, Rays first baseman Xavier Isaac, Cardinals lefthander Quinn Mathews and Twins righthander Zebby Matthews.Next Ben breaks down a few standouts from the early parts of the Dominican Summer League season and the two close the show by opening up the listener mailbag. Topics include this year's Futures Game rosters, the Angels 2024 draft strategy, personal cheeseballs from the 2024 draft class and where the top tier of prospects is in this year's class. —Time Stamps(6:00) 2026 preview(9:00) Assessing the talent of a draft class(12:00) How your ideas of players get crystallized(20:00) The 2024 MLB draft combine(25:00) Prep standouts at the combine(30:00) How the combine works(34:00) The combine's utility for college players(39:00) Top 100 updates(40:00) Kevin McGonigle(47:00) Jacob Wilson(52:00) Xavier Isaac(55:00) Quinn Mathews(60:00) Zebby Matthews(1:05:00) DSL standouts(1:10:00) Futures Game Players To Know(1:13:00) Angels draft strategy(1:15:00) Personal cheeseballs(1:24:00) The tiers of the 2024 draft class–Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 two significant pillars of content that hit the site this week: the annual BA 500 for the 2024 class and our international reviews that give you all the information you need as the DSL season gets underway.The two talk briefly about the Field of 64 and the NCAA Tournament that kicks off this weekend. Ben asks how much the tournament games can move the needle for scouting departments and the two also talk about whether or not high-pressure or clutch performances in these games bring additional value for reports or projecting a player.After that, the two get into the BA 500 update and talk through the class, particularly the weaknesses of this year's prep demographic. Who are the high school players we are actually confident in being selected in the first round? And what profiles are we confident in for that 10-30 range period? There are fewer options than a typical draft class.The two also talk through a switch-pitcher on the rise and a handful of up-arrow high school arms before getting into Ben's international reviews. He talks about the process of putting them together this year and then mentions a few lower bonus players who are trending in the right direction. Ben praises the Rockies for identifying and signing pitching talent from the international market and then dives into a few tooled up, exciting prospects to know about.The show ends with a few notable prospect promotions and a Phillies-oriented Aidan Miller/Mick Abel debate.—Time Stamps(2:00) Ben's international review process(9:00) How much do the tournament games matter for draft stock(12:30) Makeup and performance in high-pressure games(15:00) Favorites for the NCAA tournament(21:00) Draft talk/HS risks(28:00) HS players we are confident in first round(30:00) Where do teams pivot this year?(35:00) Christian Moore(39:00) Walker Janek(41:00) Jurrangelo Cijntje(43:00) Up-arrow HS players (49:00) Kash Mayfield vs. Cam Caminiti(54:00) International Reviews(1:00:00) Lower $$ signs who are trending up(1:05:30) International pitchers to know(1:10:00) Rockies doing a nice job IDing INT pitching(1:16:00) A Blue Jays offensive shortstop to know(1:17:30) A Yankees international slugger to know(1:20:00) A Rockies speed demon to know(1:24:00) A Phillies catcher with a cannon(1:30:00) Spencer Schwellenbach(1:35:00) Noble Meyer & Thomas White(1:45:00) Luke Keaschall(1:50:00) Aidan Miller vs. Mick Abel–Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 chat about college conference tournaments and briefly get into the dreadful track record of first round first basemen in recent years. Will that impact how teams view players like Nick Kurtz and Jac Caglianone? The two talk about the SEC's decision to roll out and experiment with a new double first base bag at the SEC tournament and then get into more serious business of prospect promotions. There are a number of intriguing players moving up the minor league ladder including: Red Sox RHP Luis Perales, D-backs 1B Deyvison De Los Santos, Guardians LHP Matt “Tugboat” Wilkinson, Cardinals LHP Quinn Mathews, White Sox LHP Noah Schultz, White Sox SS Jacob Gonzalez and Mets RHP/OF Nolan McLean.After that Ben points out a few prospects who he thinks should be getting more hype than they are currently receiving—one an outfielder with the Orioles and the other a Guardians middle infield prospect. At the close of the show Carlos asks Ben if he'd rather have Bobby Witt Jr. or Gunnar Henderson moving forward and the two briefly talk about the value of switch hitting and whether or not hitters should simply focus on their best sides.– Time Stamps(0:00) College conference tournaments(5:00) The scary first round 1B track record(10:00) Two bags at first base?(16:45) Luis Perales(22:00) Deyvison De Los Santos(29:00) Matt Wilkinson(35:00) Quinn Mathews(42:30) Noah Schultz(51:00) Jacob Gonzalez(58:00) Nolan McLean(1:02:00) Reggie Crawford(1:06:20) Dylan Beavers (1:11:00) Angel Genao(1:15:00) Bobby Witt Jr. vs. Gunnar Henderson(1:23:00) Switch hitting questions–Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 spend a lot of time talking through Baseball Savant's new bat tracking data and how the new information could inform or change how we evaluate players and prospects. The two talk about the importance of bat speed in general, why length of swing is important, think through bat speed vs. bat acceleration and also wonder about the complications that could arise with how bat length is calculated based on contact points. The two talk about how this could further inform aging curves and give more precise data about how and when players are aging, think through different types of swing distributions this data sheds light on and Ben mentions how important bat paths are and why we shouldn't lose sight of that element. The two think through the various applications of this data for prospects and then move into some prospect-specific talk, starting with a pair of players to know for the upcoming 2025 international signing class: shortstop Elian Peña (linked to the Mets) and shortstop Cristopher Polanco (linked to the Blue Jays).After that, the two talk through a number of recent top 100 additions including Mariners prospects Tyler Locklear and Jonny Farmelo, Phillies shortstop Starlyn Caba, Rockies outfielder Zac Veen and Brewers lefthander Robert Gasser. Hot performers like Red Sox shortstop Marcelo Mayer, Nationals outfielder Dylan Crews, Mariners shortstop Felnin Celesten and Twins righthander Zebby Matthews are also mentioned. —Time Stamps(0:00) New bat speed data(5:30) Swing length as exciting as bat speed(10:00) Bat speed vs. acceleration(15:00) How swing length is measured(25:00) Bat speed aging curves(27:30) Swing distributions(31:00) The importance of bat paths(37:00) Applications for prospects(41:00) Elian Peña(46:00) Cristopher Polanco(50:00) International pitching development (55:00) Tyler Locklear(58:00) Starlyn Caba(1:04:00) Zac Veen, Marcelo Mayer, Roman Anthony(1:11:00) Robert Gasser(1:15:00) Jonny Farmelo(1:19:00) Felnin Celesten (1:21:00) Dylan Crews(1:23:00) Zebby Matthews–Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 show to primarily break down the big movers on our first in-season Top 100 MLB Prospects update of the 2024 season. Before jumping into that, the two marvel at Georgia slugger Charlie Condon's continued home run pace and wonder whether or not teams should start giving him the Barry Bonds treatment—if not, will he get to the 40-homer mark?Carlos asks Ben about this year's Top 100 update process and the challenges of that so early in the season and the two then get into some of the big movers, including two pitchers trending down: Blue Jays lefthander Ricky Tiedemann and Padres righthander Dylan Lesko. Next, the two talk about a few up-arrow pitchers who are doing big things at the big league level, including Mets righthander Christian Scott and Pirates righthander Jared Jones. That leads to a discussion about the Pirates farm system depth with arms and pitching strategy in general, as well as a bit more talk about Paul Skenes.Next, they get into a few more hitters who are on the rise or showing productive seasons so far in 2024 including: Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing, Mariners outfielder Lazaro Montes and A's shortstop Jacob Wilson. That turns into a conversation about the Padres-Marlins Luis Arraez trade and the two disagree over whether or not the package was a compelling return for a player like Arraez.Finally, talk turns to power-hitting top prospects Junior Caminero, James Wood and Dylan Crews and how they're viewing each of the three and why they aren't too worried about Woods' current lack of home run production. The show closes with a mailbag segment, which includes questions about a Rays international prospect with size and power, a draft signing bonus logistics question, the differences between command and control and a question about lefthanders in the 2025 draft class.–Time Stamps(1:30) Charlie Condon(6:45) New Top 100 update(10:40) Ricky Tiedemann and Dylan Lesko(16:30) Christian Scott(20:30) Jared Jones(25:00) Pirates pitching strategy(34:00) Dalton Rushing(39:00) Lazaro Montes(46:00) Jacob Wilson(52:00) Luis Arraez Trade(1:06:00) Junior Caminero, James Wood & Dylan Crews(1:16:00) Mailbag–Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 new draft rankings at Baseball America and briefly touch on the state of the class and how the group is shaping up. Ben brings up the idea of pick trading once again and how that would impact Carlos's ability to create mock drafts. Ben also talks about how it would be interesting to see teams able to trade domestic draft picks for international draft picks if that is ever implemented—the more freedom for teams to build rosters the better.Then the two touch on a number of minor league prospects off to hot starts this season including: White Sox lefthander Noah Schultz, Rockies righthander Chase Dollander, Cubs third baseman Matt Shaw, Royals catcher Blake Mitchell and Twins outfielder Emmanuel Rodriguez. After that the two switch gears and talk about some prospects whose starts to the season could be more concerning. Those players include: Yankees shortstop Roderick Arias, Rangers shortstop Sebastian Walcott, Mariners catcher Harry Ford, Blue Jays lefthander Ricky Tiedemann, Padres righthander Dylan Lesko and Braves righthander Hurston Waldrep. In that conversation the two also wonder about the merits of prospect demotions and whether or not they could be beneficial for player development. Ben has a sleeper righthander to know in the Brewers system, righthander Bishop Letson, and the two talk about his remarkable jump in stuff within just a year of being drafted in the 11th round. That leads to a conversation about teams investing in raw, projectable prospects who take more time to develop and whether or not that sort of player is less common with a 20-round draft and smaller minor league system.Ben picks Carlos's brain on the players who could be available for the teams picking outside the top eight range, and how likely or unlikely it is for one of the “big 8” to slip further down the board. What are potential draft scenarios for the Pirates, Nationals, Tigers and Red Sox? The two talk about pitcher attrition and whether or not that makes teams more or less likely to draft pitching prospects in the first place and then get into a listener question about academies in Latin America lying about prospect ages. –Time Stamps(0:00) New draft rankings(13:00) Pick trading(18:00) International draft trading(21:00) Noah Schultz(23:00) Chase Dollander(27:00) Matt Shaw(29:30) Blake Mitchell (34:00) Emmanuel Rodriguez(40:00) Roderick Arias(45:30) Sebastian Walcott(49:00) Thoughts on promotions and demotions(52:00) Harry Ford(57:00) Ricky Tiedemann(1:03:00) Dylan Lesko(1:08:00) Hurston Waldrep (1:13:40) Bishop Letson(1:19:00) Teams investing in “raw” players(1:23:00) Pirates options at No. 9(1:33:00) Can anyone slide out of the top eight?(1:37:00) FSU outfielder James Tibbs(1:39:00) Are the Red Sox in no man's land at 12?(1:46:00) Pitcher attrition and how that impacts decisions to draft arms(1:52:00) What happens when academies lie about player ages?–Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 all kinds of early-season performances to start the season, but before getting into minor leaguers they start off with how red hot Michael Busch has been for the Cubs. Does this change our evaluations of the Dodgers-Cubs trade and how have minor leaguers Zyhir Hope and Jackson Ferris been so far in the 2024 season?After that, the two talk about the odd situation in Florida where the Marlins have sent their best performing pitcher—Max Meyer—back to the minors. Is it service time manipulation or just an odd way to manage a young pitcher's workload? The Marlins slow start to the season also leads to a conversation about the worst teams in the league, the draft lottery and who the favorites are to land a top-three chance for the No. 1 pick in 2025. Sorry, White Sox and A's fans.Next, Carlos brings up Bobby Witt Jr. and his scorching start to the 2024 season and Ben counters with CJ Abrams taking a step forward with his hitting. The two then talk about James Wood's sensational start and debate whether he or Dylan Crews is the prospect to have in Washington's system. Carlos rants about Dylan Crews skepticism on the internet and the two then move on to lower-level prospects moving and shaking so far this season.That includes: Phillies infielder Aidan Miller and his swing change; Rockies lefthander Sean Sullivan and his unique pitch profile; Braves righthander Owen Murphy and his lack of premium velocity but strong results; the Rays finding yet another pitching gem with righthander Santiago Suarez; the Orioles “late” find of righthander Moises Chace; early improvements for Reds third baseman Cam Collier; continued offensive dominance from Guardians first baseman Ralphy Velazquez; Jackson Chourio's younger brother Jaison Chourio, who is also in the Cleveland system; and Cubs shortstop Jefferson Rojas.The two close the show by talking about split-camp players and why opinions on prospects can vary so widely, how those deltas are handled in scouting departments and the pressures to align opinions with higher ups and/or the “consensus” opinions on a player in the industry.–Time Stamps(0:00) Michael Busch(10:00) Zyhir Hope(14:00) Jackson Ferris(18:00) Max Meyer(26:00) Draft lottery talk(34:00) Bobby Witt Jr. and CJ Abrams(42:00) James Wood(45:00) Dylan Crews vs. James Wood(53:00) Aidan Miller(59:30) Sean Sullivan(1:12:00) Owen Murphy(1:16:00) Santiago Suarez(1:21:00) Moises Chace(1:27:00) Cam Collier (1:33:00) Ralphy Velazquez(1:42:00) Jaison Chourio(1:46:00) Jefferson Rojas(1:49:00) split camp players and why opinions can vary so much— Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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

Carlos and Ben talk about Jackson Holliday's big league promotion and what to expect of him from the jump with the Orioles. The two debate the validity of jersey retirements but otherwise agree on many of the topics of today's episode which includes…The much-talked about pitcher injury epidemic. Velocity and max effort throwing certainly seems like a factor, but what about others like the pitch clock? New pitching development and pitch design? Managing workloads too critically or not critically enough? Changes to youth baseball and the velocity you're seeing at those levels? What about shoulder injuries? After that the two move on to the top pitching prospect in baseball, Paul Skenes who made quick work of Triple-A hitters in his first two starts of the season. They talk about how he's looked and get into another conversation about fastball shape and why it's not the end all be all for pitchers and also wonder about when he should be promoted to the majors.Next the two pivot to the 2024 draft class and talk about the barrage of home runs that Wake Forest first baseman Nick Kurtz has hit in the last two weeks. Has he re-entered the 1-1 conversation and how does he stack up against fellow first baseman Jac Caglianone tool-for-tool? That leads into a conversation about the top of the draft class generally, and Ben asks about who the best pitcher in the class is after Chase Burns and Hagen Smith which leads to talk about ECU righthander Trey Yesavage. After that Ben brings up another righthander who might deserve a bit more attention in Vanderbilt righthander Bryce Cunningham.The two close the podcast with thoughts on Boston's contract extension of center fielder and shortstop Ceddanne Rafaela.—Time Stamps(0:00) Jackson Holliday (14:00) Retiring numbers(18:00) The pitcher injury epidemic(25:00) High school pitchers throwing harder(33:00) Ben's thoughts on shoulder injuries(35:30) Is the pitch clock a factor?(38:00) Paul Skenes and fastball shape(49:00) When should Skenes be in the majors?(55:00) Nick Kurtz's home run binge(1:05:00) Nick Kurtz vs. Jac Caglianone(1:15:00) ECU RHP Trey Yesavage(1:25:00) Vanderbilt RHP Bryce Cunningham(1:30:00) The Ceddanne Rafaela contract extension— Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 show to talk about the top of the 2024 draft class and notable minor league prospect assignments. Before getting into the show the two talk about the news that the A's will be relocating to Sacramento's Triple-A stadium after the 2024 season. It's just the latest of a shocking number of relocation gaffes from the franchise. After that the two talk about how dynamic both Charlie Condon and Travis Bazzana have been halfway through the college season. Where do their numbers stack up with recent elite college hitters at the top of the class? And can we truly read directly into those numbers given the offensive environment of college baseball in 2024? How do the two compare and contrast to elite college prospects like Dylan Crews and Wyatt Langford and what holds them back from belonging in the same tier—if they still don't actually fit there? Where would each rank on the Top 100 Prospects list?Following that conversation the two talk about minor league names—and assignments—to know. Carlos continues his love of Dylan Lesko and gets excited about his slider development, the two both praise the Mariners' ability to find and develop impact college arms and the two talk through a number of players including: Reds catcher Alfredo Duno, Dodgers outfielder Josue De Paula, Brewers outfielder Yophery Rodriguez, Angels outfielder Nelson Rada, Rangers shortstop Sebastian Walcott, Reds righthander Rhett Lowder, Braves righthander Hurston Waldrep, Guardians infielder Ralphy Velazquez and more. The show closes with a listener email asking about how things would change if MLB adopted an NBA draft system where players had to go to college but could leave for pro ball whenever they wanted after that.—Time Stamps0:20 A's to Sacramento Talk6:20 Charlie Condon's insane numbers10:00 College baseball's offensive environment and how to contextualize for that16:45 Condon and Travis Bazzana compared to Dylan Crews and Wyatt Langford35:15 Condon/Bazzana compared to recent elite college profiles40:00 Where Condon/Bazzana would fit on a Top 100 list54:13 Transition to minor league prospect talk1:02:05 Jackson Jobe's brilliance1:06:00 The Mariners knack for finding and developing college arms1:13:05 Josue De Paula1:17:40 Alfredo Duno1:24:15 Sebastian Walcott1:29 Hurston Waldrep and Rhett Lowder1:41:25 If MLB's draft system was changed to the NBA format— Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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

Happy (day after) Opening Day!Ben and Carlos hop back on the podcast to talk about Opening Day of the big league season and some of the main storylines of the year. The two talk about their World Series picks and talk through some of the more interesting divisions to keep tabs on then debate the most disappointing offseason in the league. The two also give their thoughts on the Shohei Ohtani-Ippei Mizuhara situation before turning their eyes to the amateur space. Ben breaks down his recent trip to the Dominican Republic and gives an early preview of upcoming international classes, including Andrew Salas who is projected to sign with the Marlins and the younger brother of Padres catching phenom Ethan Salas. The two then talk about a defensive spectrum debate that Carlos stumbled upon between second base and right field and give their thoughts on the skills required for both. After that, the two talk through some 2024 draft buzz, including the continued domination of Chase Burns and Hagen Smith, whether or not Brody Brecht's walk rate is too high for the first round and how we should think through Jac Caglianone as a two-way player, as a hitter and as a pitcher. The two also discuss pop-up players and how teams scout them. How should a team weigh spring performance and looks vs. extended history and track record of a player?— Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 chat about spring training standouts in big league camp, headlined by two players in the very elite tier of baseball prospects who have a case to start the year in the majors: Jackson Holliday and Wyatt Langford. Ben and Carlos talk about the cases for and against those two being pushed aggressively and then the two talk about a number of other spring training performances including Padres outfielder Jackson Merrill, Pirates righthander Jared Jones, Cardinals shortstop Thomas Saggese, Padres outfielder and infielder Graham Pauley and Brewers first baseman Wes Clarke, among others.After that the two discuss a loaded Wake Forest-Duke series from last weekend that Carlos saw in person. The two revisit Chase Burns and talk through just how much he's elevated his draft stock, plus get in depth on the divergent hitting approaches of Seaver King and Nick Kurtz. The two touch on Jonathan Santucci, Josh Hartle and Michael Massey as well and talk briefly about the top of the draft board.–Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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 first two weeks of college baseball action including scorching offensive starts from Georgia's Charlie Condon and Oregon State's Travis Bazzana. Are they more in the mix to be the No. 1 pick in a still unsettled draft class? And what are the early changes beyond just strong production?The two then move on to pitching and break down early-season outings from Arkansas lefthander Hagen Smith and Wake Forest righthander Chase Burns. The two have solid cases as having the best pure stuff from the left and right side respectively, and now they are looking to reinforce their starting profiles and remove some of the reliever risk they entered the spring with. How do Ben and Carlos view the two? Which would they take? How do they view reliever risk in general and which factors are the most concerning: Command? Diversity of stuff? Delivery? Medical history? Durability? Track record? After that the two talk about a few early spring training performances from players who have impressed including Pirates second baseman Termarr Johnson, Nationals outfielders James Wood and Dylan Crews and Brewers outfielder (or infielder?) Sal Frelick.The show closes with Ben's early preview of the 2026 high school draft class, which looks to have both impressive depth of talent and a standout headliner at the top in Texas shortstop Grady Emerson.–Do you have a question you want us to answer? Email us: futureprojection@baseballamerica.com  Ben's Twitter: @BenBadlerCarlos's Twitter: @CarlosACollazoBaseball 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