Jesse Franklin - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	OF/1B	14	45

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	Hit	Power	Field	Arm	Run
45	40	45	55	55	45	50

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-1
Weight: 215 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/L
Acquired: 2020 Draft, Round 3
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Strong, athletic player with broad shoulders and obvious build throughout his trunk and lower half. Good combination of physical strength and athleticism throughout.

Hit: Franklin hit in spurts throughout his college career, performing extremely well for Michigan as well as on the Cape in 2018 before showing more power but less barrel accuracy through both stops in 2019. The swing can get long, potentially as a result of how wide he gets in his stance, and the hands can get a little tight through his stroke as well, but he's shown consistently ability to barrel baseballs with strength to all fields. There's variance here depending on how much Franklin wants to tap into his power. Grade: 45

Power: His power is likely his loudest tool at present, with excellent strength and above-average bat speed combining to give him plus raw power from the left side of the plate. He can drive the ball out to all fields and really launch it pull-side, and he's shown progression through his amateur career of getting the barrel in better spots to launch while retaining plate coverage. Grade: 55

Field: Franklin played first-base as a freshman following shoulder surgery on his throwing arm, but returned to center field in 2019 once fully healthy. He's more athletic than his physical, thick build might indicate, with a quick first step and good speed once underway, and his routes consistently improved throughout the course of his sophomore season. There's a chance for him to potentially be fringe in center field, but realistically he'll be a defensive asset in a corner. Grade: 55

Arm: Franklin had labrum surgery on his throwing shoulder prior to his freshman season at Michigan, and while he's been fully recovered from that injury for some time, his arm strength is still mostly in the 40-45 range. He shows good accuracy along with a quick release, but the arm will keep him in left field if he proves unable to play center long-term. Grade: 45

Run: Franklin has a quick first step and can move well for a player of his build, turning in times in the 55-60 range at times during his sophomore campaign. On the whole he's a half-tick above average as a runner right now, with solid-average projection long term as he matures. Grade: 50

Overall: Franklin brings a solid set of tools to the table along with a performance pedigree and universally-praised makeup, though the overall profile likely falls a little short of a solid-average regular. He should be able to hit 15-20 home runs a year while playing a solid left field, and should see some average years at his peak in terms of WAR output.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Utility / Platoon
Risk: Moderate

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Bryce Elder - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	RHP	13	45

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	FB	CB	SL	CH	Cnt/Cmd
45	40	45	50	60	40	45/40

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Anthony Franco

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-2
Weight: 220 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2020 Draft, Round 5
RuleV: 2023

Physical Description: Listed at 6'2", 220 pounds. Very physical; thick, muscular upper half. No physical projection remaining. Below-average athlete.

Delivery & Mechanics: High-effort delivery with some stiffness throughout. Seemed to shorten arm action a bit from 2019 to 2020, enabling him to be more on time. Has some head movement at release. Exaggerated dip of front shoulder leads to high 3/4 arm slot but allows hitters to pick up the ball early, decreasing deception.

Fastball: 90-93 MPH. Fastball has heavy downhill plane with some sink and arm-side action. Plays down a bit because of subpar in-zone command. Grade: 45

Curveball: 78-82 MPH. Works in a more vertical breaking ball as he faces the opposing lineup multiple times. Curve flashes good bite but can blend with his slider at times. Typically average although it flashes above. Grade: 50

Slider: 84-86 MPH. Best pitch in his arsenal. Has two-plane tilt with plus bite and tight spin. Generates plenty of whiffs. Grade: 60

Changeup: 85-87 MPH. Infrequently utilized fourth pitch; occasionally mixes it in against left-handers. Has some feel for creating arm-side run but is generally too firm. Not great feel for locating. Grade: 40

Control and Command: Control-over-command pitcher; throws fastball for strikes but misses his spots within the zone. Breaking balls are typically close enough to the zone to generate chases. Walk rate was down over four starts during his draft season; seemingly shortened arm action could explain that improvement, but he'll need to prove he can sustain strike-throwing gains over a longer term. Control: 45 | Command: 40

Overall: Elder projects as a middle reliever. He seemingly cleaned up his delivery and made some strides with his command during his junior season at Texas. Even so, he's not a great athlete and probably won't ever have particularly good in-zone command. His low-90's velo and plus slider fit comfortably in the middle innings mix if his fringe command and/or below-average changeup eventually push him to the bullpen.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Spot Starter or Long Reliever
Risk: Moderate

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Freddy Tarnok - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	RHP	12	45

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	FB	CB	CH	Cnt/Cmd
45	40	45	50	50	45/40

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: James Chipman

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-3
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2017 Draft, Round 3
RuleV: 2021

Physical Description: Ideal pitcher's frame. Athletic, wiry build. Average torso; high waist with broad shoulders that slope and long levers. Average core; sturdy lower half. Impressive athlete with excellent coordination and fluid actions.

Delivery & Mechanics: Stretch only; tall and fall. High 3/4 arm slot with above-average arm speed and moderate effort in the delivery. Long arm path. Simple well repeated delivery. Moderate deception from high leg kick and arm speed.

Fastball: Sits 91-94; tapers off to 89-91 after turning the lineup over. Sinks it in the lower third; modest arm side life elsewhere in the zone. Average command. Misses are predominantly glove side and unintentional spikes low. Likely plays up in shorter stints, closer to average. Less than optimal velocity will give him a smaller margin for error at the big league level. Grade: 45

Curveball: Sits 80-83 with tight rotation and late 11/5 action at its best. Has the late break and bite necessary for it to effectively play as a bat misser at the big league level. Rolls in the occasional cement mixer but feel and consistency is trending in a positive direction. Grade: 50

Changeup: Underutilized but a solid average offering. Sits 82-84. Has feel; maintains arm speed; tunneled well off FB with optimal velocity separation. Features late tumble and fade. Thrown almost exclusively to LHB. Further pro instruction and reps should push it to average. Grade: 50

Control and Command: Fringe-average control and below average command; capable of throwing strikes but struggles to consistently find the zone and hit the glove. Lack of strength and long arm path hurt command; FB has average command: secondaries significantly lag. Pitch sequencing can be FB heavy and predictable at times. Control: 45 | Command: 40

Overall: A solid summation of near average offerings, the profile's main deficiency is a substandard FB and command that has regressed to below-average. Rumored to possess the ability to hit as high as 97 mph, Tarnok has been a low 90s guy that can't hold velo deep into his outings over my live looks. Should that velocity return, there's some back of the rotation upside or high leverage relief potential. Without the velocity he looks more like a spot starter or long relief project.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Spot Starter or Long Reliever
Risk: Moderate

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Patrick Weigel - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	RHP	11	45

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	FB	CB	SL	CH	Cnt/Cmd
45	40	55	50	55	45	45/40

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Isaiah Burrows

Age: 27 yr
Height: 6-6
Weight: 248 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2015 Draft, Round 7
RuleV: On 40-Man Roster

Physical Description: Tall and sturdy right-hander on the mound. Solid and lanky build. Filled out frame with broad shoulders. Long arms and legs. Strong lower half that plays within his delivery.

Delivery & Mechanics: Standard 3/4 arm slot from the windup/stretch. Loose extension and follow through, struggles with command. Lots of moving parts with his upper and lower half, gets wild at times. Inconsistent delivery that needs to be tinkered with.

Fastball: Mid-90s offering with good life and ride towards the top of the zone. Fastball typically sits 93-94, but occasionally reaches 96-97 mph. Good plane to the pitch, doesn't sell out for max velocity. Spots it well armside. Grade: 55

Curveball: Mid-70s breaking ball with solid depth, though a bit behind in development to his slider. Tends to hang in the zone, lacks consistent shape and break. Shows signs of improvement with good dip and break. Grades as average off-speed pitch with room for growth. Grade: 50

Slider: Mid-80s slider with good break and spin. Go-to off-speed pitch. Throws it hard to the plate with late dive to force whiffs. Consistent velocity and break makes it effective. Struggles with command holds back its full potential. Effective offering that flashes signs a true plus pitch. Grade: 55

Changeup: Mid-80s changeup that keeps improving. Still a bit firm in the zone, but plays it well off his fastball. Throws it with late bite against lefties. Needs more refinement as a fourth pitch, but has shown improved development and growth. Grade: 45

Control and Command: Has good stuff, but command and control holds back its potential. Fits more of the reliever role. Struggles to find the zone consistently. Let's the count run deep, has trouble putting away batters. Needs to refine his mechanics to throw more quality strikes. Control: 45 | Command: 40

Overall: Patrick Weigel has the physical build and arsenal, but struggles with his command and control holds him back at times. His fastball and slider stick out the most amongst his four pitches with good velocity and movement. He needs to refine his arm action to secure a permanent role in the Braves bullpen.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Spot Starter or Long Reliever
Risk: Moderate

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Jasseel De La Cruz - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	RHP	10	45

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	FB	SL	CH	Cnt/Cmd
45	40	60	55	40	45/40

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Geoff Pontes

Age: 24 yr
Height: 6-1
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2015 IFA
RuleV: On 40-Man Roster

Physical Description: Average height to slightly below for a pitcher, not a particularly projectable frame. Lacks a high overall fitness level with a slight potbelly showing despite not being a heavyset guy. Has strength in his lower half, but doesn't use it terribly effectively in his motion.

Delivery & Mechanics: Inefficient mechanical operation due to poor timing. However, other positive mechanical traits like his fast arm, good lead leg block and heavily glute dominant operation allow him to get the most possible velocity out of his below average physique. De La Cruz starts his full delivery with a slight rock, to a contracted leg lift that closes off his front side. Simultaneously getting heavily into his back leg and glutes, before springing forward and slinging the ball from a lower three quarters delivery. He has some serious shoulder and pelvis tilt upon release, with his arm doing speed doing much of the work to stay in time. High effort delivery due to up-tempo motion, this coupled with his timing issues lead to De La Cruz losing the strike zone for stretches.

Fastball: High octane fastball and the dominant usage pitch in De La Cruz's arsenal. Sits 93-95 mph touching 97-99 mph at his hottest. In certain outings De La Cruz would sit 95-98 mph but only for the first two innings before dropping to his usual 93-95 mph. He gets solid backspin high in the zone with around 18+ inches of lift and an average raw spin rate of 2300+. His command of the pitch is fringe average, but he does a good job of stealing strikes on the outer part of the plate while driving swings and misses elevated or inside. Plus fastball with the velocity, traits, and results. Grade: 60

Slider: Slurvy breaking ball with mid-spin efficiency. Will have tighter offerings at 82-84 mph and more vertical breaking benders at 79-82 mph. Does a good job manipulating the pitch as needed and will land them for called strikes to higher and outside parts of the zone. Will lose feel at times and spike the pitch, and most of his hardest contact comes when he loses shape in the zone, but it's infrequent. Above average pitch with good raw spin rates in the 2750-2800 rpm range. Grade: 55

Changeup: Infrequently used and inconsistent third pitch, De La Cruz will show the ability to turn it over, and when he does he generates a fair amount of run. When he doesn't the pitch flattens out and looks like a bad fastball. Could be used more if he develops consistent feel for the pitch. It's a usable in game pitch now and flashes average or better in spurts. Grade: 40

Control and Command: Violent operations like De La Cruz's rarely lend themselves to consistent strike throwing or good command profiles, and Jasseel is no different. He is a bit of Jekyll and Hyde with his control as he'll pound the strike zone for long stretches driving swings and misses and soft contact, looking like a starting pitching prospect. Then as quickly as you can snap your fingers he loses it, misses with his fastball and slider to all parts of the zone. It typically only lasts for a batter or too, but it seemed to me, walks did him in more often than hard contact. There's some hope De La Cruz can get to an average level as a strike thrower but it likely settles in at fringe average control and below average command. Control: 45 | Command: 40

Overall: De La Cruz possesses one of the best one-two punches in the Atlanta system due to his plus mid-to-upper-90s fastball and above average slider. Further refinement of his changeup and control + command are needed in order for him to maintain a starting role long term. Mechanically speaking it's questionable that De La Cruz's up-tempo high effort operation ever yields even fringe average command. For this reason we project his long term role in the pen with a real chance his stuff plays up enough to fit into a high leverage role. For now he's a spot starter profile that could handle some low leverage situations.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Spot Starter or Low Leverage Reliever
Risk: Moderate

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Tucker Davidson - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	LHP	9	45

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	FB	CB	SL	Cnt/Cmd
45	40	55	45	50	50/40

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Jake Boes

Age: 25 yr
Height: 6-2
Weight: 215 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/L
Acquired: 2019 Draft, Round 19
RuleV: On 40-Man Roster

Physical Description: Fairly average frame with no projection remaining; sloped shoulders with long arms. Wide hips with thick, muscular thighs and legs; NBA-sized feet. Shows athleticism on the mound; has a prep background in football. May have lost around 20 lbs recently--seems true to 215 list currently. Frame similar to former MLB pitcher Jorge De La Rosa.

Delivery & Mechanics: High 3/4 slot bordering over-the-top with high effort; stretch exclusively with a high leg kick and strong lower half engagement. Leg kick and extension yield moderate deception. Nearly crossfires delivery; settles back foot on the edge of the first base side of the rubber. Hitter gets a look at the ball on reachback, but the arm is quick enough to prevent pitch tipping. Hard fall to the third base side. Delivery is mildly violent.

Fastball: 91-93 t94 with cutting action running in on opposite-sided hitters. Induces weak contact when located; can be tough to barrel when it's thrown on the corners. Heavy usage that will get thrown in any count; high trust and conviction with the offering. Pitch plays best in the upper third of the zone. Loses life at the bottom of the plate. Grade: 55

Curveball: 75-77 with 12/6 break; slow breaker with average spin. Used almost exclusively to same-sided batters. Will freeze hitters with big break; slows the arm on occasion. Casts the pitch at times, giving proper rotation without desired bite. Overall, a fringy offering with little projection remaining Grade: 45

Slider: 86-88 with average, slurvy action; flashes plus but sits average with late bite. Predictable locations; gets too much plate at times. Under-utilized pitch especially when ahead. Could be used as a chase more. Grade: 50

Control and Command: Average control with below average command; fills the zone and will live and die with the fastball; highly predictable sequencing and locations may hinder his ability to skate by shortcomings with location. Well-repeated delivery has helped limit free passes. Control: 50 | Command: 40

Overall: Davidson's high fastball usage and the lack of trust with his curveball present significant reliever risk to the profile. His firm fastball from the left side is encouraging, but the relentless use with the pitch may prevent him from making it through an order multiple times. There is a possibility for a backend starter long-term, but I don't see enough to warrant that as a likely outcome. Most likely, Davidson is a middle relief arm or long man out of the pen on a competitive club long-term, where his fastball/slider combination may play up.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Spot Starter or Low Leverage Reliever
Risk: Moderate

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William Contreras - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	C	8	45

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	Hit	Power	Field	Arm	Run
45	40	45	45	50	55	40

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Jake Boes

Age: 23 yr
Height: 6-0
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2015 IFA
RuleV: On 40-Man Roster

Physical Description: Medium, stocky build; squared shoulders, average strength throughout the arms and torso. High waist with thick, strong thighs and calves. Near physical projection currently with minimal room to fill out in the chest and waist. Pliable behind the plate; creative setups and crouches. Likely 10-20 lbs above 180 list. Brother of current MLB catcher Willson Contreras.

Hit: A once-open stance is recently more square with a slightly coiled upper half; hands are quiet and high above the ear--sitting away from the body. Small bend at the knee with feet slightly outside of shoulder-width. Hands reach back for power position into load; upper half further coils and lower half closes into strong leg kick; front foot lands open; heavy weight transfer to the front side through swing. Average bat speed generated from frame and hands; swing tends to get lengthy at times. Approach is damage-oriented; looking for a pitch to drive in the air regardless of count; strike zone awareness coupled with a bat path that maximizes time in the zone helps limit strikeout totals, but will swing over low spin when behind. Overall, a fringe hit tool with limited projection left. Grade: 45

Power: Below average power that is padded by gap and warning track drives all over the diamond. Consistently swinging for extra bases; length of the swing hinders the quality of contact at times; shows raw power to all fields that translates in-game, but over-the-fence power can be more fleeting at times considering the approach. Grade: 45

Field: An average defender behind the plate with strong receiving skills; works well with pitchers and shows game-calling ability. Quiet glove yields deft framing abilities. Reports of lack of concentration appear to be cleaned up; room for improvement with blocking. Smooth behind the plate but lacks twitch with movements; makes expected plays. Grade: 50

Arm: Above-average arm; pop times in the 1.95-2.03 range; good accuracy to the bag but will bounce throws on occasion; arm path tends to get long. Shows resilience to get the ball out; transfers are inconsistent; ball pops out of the glove on occasion. May continue to progress with continued pro instruction. Grade: 55

Run: Flashes average home-to-first times 4.2-4.3; likely to settle in at below average being behind the plate and as the frame reaches projection. Better runner than the average catcher; won't be a base-clogger, but also not going to be a base-stealing threat. Home-to-first times might give fringy times long-term, but lack of base-stealing and taking extra bases will hinder the overall grade. Grade: 40

Overall: Contreras has the makeup and body for a catcher--while he lacks a loud, carrying tool some of the backup catcher profiles possess, the summation of his tools make an everyday future more likely than some others. Because of the limited defensive ceiling, there is pressure on his hit tool to realize his true role potential. A platoon or bench role is most likely with an everyday future well within the realm of possibility.

OFP: 45
Role: 40 - Below-Average Player: Back-Up Catcher
Risk: Moderate

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Kyle Muller - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	LHP	7	50

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	FB	CB	CH	Cnt/Cmd
50	50	60	50	50	45/40

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: James Chipman

Age: 23 yr
Height: 6-7
Weight: 250 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/L
Acquired: 2016 Draft, Round 2
RuleV: On 40-Man Roster

Physical Description: Large imposing 6'7", 250+ pound frame. Broad shoulders with mild slope; long levers; average core with a soft middle. High waist; strong legs and a thick lower half -- a sturdy workhorse frame capable of eating innings. Limited physical projection remaining with minimal strength gains to be had.

Delivery & Mechanics: Semi-windup. High 3/4 arm slot with above-average arm speed and moderate to max effort in the delivery since refinement. Long arm path that starts below the belt on windup. Moderate deception from delivery, hand break and leg kick. Utilizes tall frame, long levers and high arm slot to generate steep downward plane. Has made great strides mechanically considering his size, but often struggles to repeat; arm slot occasionally wanders and hard falls often pull him offline.

Fastball: Sits 93-95 occasionally scraping as high as 96. Firm heavy offering with just modest run. Works it to all quadrants of zone; misses predominately glove-side. Holds velocity deep into outings and maintains velocity from the stretch. Fringe-average command. Extension and downhill plane pad the percieved velocity and overall quality. Grade: 60

Curveball: Sits 76-81 with tight 1/7 action and sharp late break at its best. Has inconsistent shape and feel; shows less optimal slurvy depth at times that lacks bite. Primarily a chase pitch out of the strike zone against LHB. Overall an inconsistent but solid offering with average potential. Grade: 50

Changeup: Has feel; tunnels it well and maintains arm speed. Quality velocity separation from FB; sits around 83-85 with fade and solid tumble. Heavy usage, comfortable throwing the offering in any count to both right and left-handed batters. Elicits both swing and miss and weak contact; will occasionally hang. Flashes above-average and sits fringy; likely settles in-between. Grade: 50

Control and Command: Muller's size, long levers and limited athleticism effect his ability to repeat; subsequently limiting his command profile upside. Pitch counts can run up and he's prone to the occasional wild spell. That being said, he lives around the zone and relies on quality of stuff and pitchabilty over precise location. His advanced feel and ability to sequence help mitigate some of the mechanical issues, but Muller will likely always be a stuff over command type. Control: 45 | Command: 40

Overall: A well rounded arsenal of potential average or better offerings and pitchabilty give Muller solid back of the rotation potential. The lack of a true put-away secondary offering and less than optimal command bake added risk into the profile. His handedness and ability to reach the upper 90s could yield a solid high leverage reliever safety net backup plan.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - #4 or #5 SP
Risk: Moderate

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Jared Shuster - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	LHP	6	50

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	FB	SL	CH	Cnt/Cmd
50	50	55	50	60	50/45

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Jake Boes

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-3
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/L
Acquired: 2020 Draft, Round 1
RuleV: 2024

Physical Description: Prototypical starter's frame: tall, long, and strong with broad shoulders; long arms with a high waist and a slender, yet sturdy base. Same physical proportions as Andy Pettite. Prep background in basketball; good athlete on the mound.

Delivery & Mechanics: Fires from a high 3/4 arm slot with moderate effort; quick wind-up with a well-repeated delivery. Deceptive motion; lots of moving parts, hides the ball well and generates impressive extension. Head stays quiet through motion; ball leaves the hand exceptionally well. Shows poise and mound presence.

Fastball: 91-94 t96 flashing nasty, late armside run. Pounds the outside corner against opposite-sided hitters. Riding life when thrown up in the zone; controls the pitch well with command gains still possible. Overall, an above-average offering with plus potential long-term. Grade: 55

Slider: 81-85 with traditional slider bite; flashes plus. Shows the ability to throw for strikes; command is inconsistent beneath the zone. An average offering with minimal gains necessary to reach its projection. Grade: 50

Changeup: Legitimate plus offering showing fade and break at 80-84; generates swings and misses from both sides of the plate; shows feel and conviction. Same velocity band as the SL is less than ideal, but different plane, usage, and movement help mitigate the risk of the hitter timing it. Grade: 60

Control and Command: Average control and fringy command - there is projection with the profile; big gap between what is and what could be. Well-repeated delivery and advanced sequencing could help command with continued pro instruction. Control: 50 | Command: 45

Overall: While many felt Shuster's position in the draft was a bit generous by Atlanta, his recent bump in velocity and advanced pitchability make him intriguing as a starting pitcher. His work ethic should help him rise through the minors quickly and makes a backend starter role a realistic route long-term.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - #4 or #5 SP
Risk: High

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Braden Shewmake - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	SS/2B	5	50

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	Hit	Power	Field	Arm	Run
50	50	55	50	50	50	50

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Mike Kinsela

Age: 23 yr
Height: 6-4
Weight: 190 lbs
Hits/Throws: L/R
Acquired: 2019 Draft, Round 1
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Shewmake is a long-limbed, leanly-built middle infielder with an athletic look and some projection remaining, though he is more narrowly-built through his waist and shoulders.

Hit: Shewmake performed loudly right out of the gate in 2019, mashing through High-A en route to a promotion to AA to finish out the season. There's always been excellent feel for the barrel in his left-handed stroke, loose and whippy with plate coverage and bat speed, and he's got the ability to find barrels consistently to all fields. Grade: 55

Power: Shewmake is more leanly-built but does have somewhat surprising strength in his hands and swing, with above-average raw power pull-side at present and in the solid-average range everywhere else. He generates lots of leverage and the swing is lofted, and given his propensity to find barrels and burgeoning strength, it's certainly within reason to project him out to solid-average game power long-term. Grade: 50

Field: A shortstop by trade, Shewmake is definitely longer-bodied than most middle infielders, and his above-average athleticism and instincts allow for his more limited defensive actions to be playable. He's got a chance to stick at shortstop long term, though most evaluators see him as more of an offensive-minded second baseman or super utility defender who can add at least some value defensively. Grade: 50

Arm: Another solid yet unspectacular tool in Shewmake's arsenal, his arm strength grades out as solid average and is seen as good enough to allow him to play shortstop, aided by his instinctual timer and quick release, though it's not a weapon that will bail him out on tough plays. The arm should be enough to allow him to see time elsewhere if needed, pretty much anywhere on the diamond. Grade: 50

Run: An average runner for the most part, Shewmake consistently clocked times around 4.15-4.20 seconds down the line in his draft year at Texas A&M and holds in that range presently, with some above-average times sprinkled in. Grade: 50

Overall: Hit-tool first performer with defensive versatility and well-regarded makeup along with some power projection make Shewmake a solid bet to be an everyday player, though he may not have an everyday defensive home. Solid enough at shortstop with the ability to move around and the athleticism/baseball IQ to bring value in several spots.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - Average Everyday Regular
Risk: Moderate

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Shea Langeliers - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	C	4	50

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	Hit	Power	Field	Arm	Run
50	50	45	50	60	70	30

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: James Chipman

Age: 23 yr
Height: 6-0
Weight: 205 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2019 Round 1
RuleV: 2022

Physical Description: Short, stocky; compact frame; big strong body. Broad shoulders; low waist; evident core strength; thick and strong lower half. Noticeable upper body strength and big strong forearms. Surprising athleticism; quick and agile behind the plate. Modest physical projection remains for additional good weight. Impressive leadership and work ethic. Injury history includes broken hamate in left hand in 2019.

Hit: Lots of tinkering with mechanics since draft day. At Baylor, Langeliers had a square stance with his hands set deep off his back shoulder; a high back elbow with a slight crouch and wide base. He has since moved to an open stance with his hands at the letters, away from his body. The body remains upright, but there's more of a crouch with a more optimal load. His hands are quick through the zone; with a modest toe tap trigger and short fluid stroke. Strong hands generate above-average bat speed. Average pitch recognition and bat-to-ball; lack of discipline yields below-average strikeout and walk rates. Hunts fastballs, limited production against above-average or better off-speed. Presently a well below-average tool with fringy potential; the development of the bat will ultimately influence his big league role. Grade: 45

Power: Impressive above-average raw in BP; should play solid average in-game as the hit tool matures. Aggressive damage oriented approach; uses the entire field with over-the-fence pop predominantly to the pull side. Has enough strength and lift in his swing to carry to the deep alleys. Extra-base hits will pad the power production and value of the tool. Grade: 50

Field: Fundamentally sound and rather polished. Athletic and nimble behind the plate. Low crouch. Broad shoulders and size present a big quiet target. Receiving skills continue to improve; frames well; softer and more stable with the glove; no longer stabs and drifts; hands and wrists are strong. Handles balls in play and plays at plate exceptionally well. Athleticism and footwork yield solid blocking skills. Demonstrates impressive leadership and grit. Near above-average presently, with enough flashes of plus for me to believe it settles there long term. Grade: 60

Arm: Impact tool. Occasional elite pop times; consistently sits double-plus around 1.84 - 1.90 seconds with sound footwork and fast transfers. Shuts down the running game. Strong lasers that hover off the ground with impressive accuracy. Snap throws behind aggressive runners are a regular occurrence, keeping the opposition grounded. Grade: 70

Run: Average runner for his position with present below-average speed. Will lose some speed as rigors of catching take a toll on his body. May annually swipe a base or two; should be able to help on the base paths, occasionally scoring from second or stretching singles into doubles. Heads-up player whose instincts and hustle will prevent him from being a clogger. Grade: 30

Overall: Impressive blend of physicality, acumen and fundamentals. The hit tool is raw and its development will be necessary to reach a first division ceiling. Regardless, there's enough defensive prowess to play the strong side of a platoon role behind the dish or net the everyday role for a second division team.

OFP: 50
Role: 50 - Average Everyday Regular
Risk: Moderate

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Ian Anderson - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	RHP	3	55

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	FB	CB	CH	Cnt/Cmd
55	60	50	50	60	55/50

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Barry Lincoln

Age: 23 yr
Height: 6-3
Weight: 170 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2016 Draft, Round 1
RuleV: On 40-Man Roster

Physical Description: At an athletic 6'3" 170, Anderson fits the stereotypical "ideal" build for a starting pitcher. With a lanky and flexible overall look, Anderson is able to tap into his natural athleticism to create elite extension and arm action.

Delivery & Mechanics: Utilizes both windup and stretch. Stays balanced into gather of medium height, using his plus athleticism and flexibility to generate an elite extension of over seven feet. Solid hip hinge contributes to further power. Over the top arm action counters his elite extension in creating elite vertical approach angle. Maximizes use of the force he creates.

Fastball: Averages 94mph with a spin rate of 2063 rpm. Despite the elite extension, the over the top arm action and low spin make it play well in the lower part of the zone. Generates a lot of soft contact; used as a setup pitch for his changeup and curve (the out pitches). Spots the pitch well, but cannot afford to leave it up in the zone or it will get hit. Grade: 50

Curveball: Slow and low spin with subpar movement traits. Despite this, the greater change of pace actually benefits the pitch, throwing off timing due to its success in tunneling. Anderson has plus command on this option, and could get more bend if he fixes his efficiency (currently only 41%). While it has many shortcomings, Anderson has managed to generate whiffs on 40.5% of curveballs -- until it is figured out there may be no need to change anything (BABIP is worrisome, .385). Grade: 50

Changeup: Average velocity of 87.4 with spin rate of 1762. Does not pronate wrist on the pitch, and lines up seams similar to a four seam. While movement traits aren't special, Anderson's change looks like a fastball to hitters, generating 39.8% whiff and .172 BABIP due to his plus command and how it looks like a fastball coming in to a hitter. If the command were to ever go, the change would be subpar. Grade: 60

Control and Command: Since Anderson is a guy that does not possess a putaway fastball, or an offspeed with crazy movement, he needs to be able to put the ball in and around the zone. His overall control on all three pitches is near above-average with the fastball primarily being a setup pitch for his two off-speed. Anderson cannot get away with missing on a fastball very often. Thus, with that being his primary offering, the need to spot it is a must. He does a very good job of accomplishing this, and with the mastery of his changeup, Anderson has a very good one two punch of pitches that he can reliably spot. When he loses his command, he loses ball games -- his success is contingent upon his ability to spot up. Control: 55 | Command: 50

Overall: While Anderson's ideal build, and highly flexible/athletic profile are a major plus, the high arm-slot, lack of spin on his pitches, and average velocity has meant that he needs to take a different type of approach -- Anderson has accomplished this via the mastery of a changeup that fools hitters based on spin and velocity change. While the curveball is a solid option for the same reason, the changeup has been his bread and butter (.172 BABIP on CH, .385 on curve). His ability to spot the changeup at will, while sequencing well has led to a lot of success already in his young career; the further mastering of his pitches should lead to long term success.

OFP: 55
Role: 60 - #3 SP
Risk: Moderate

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Drew Waters - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	OF	2	55

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	Hit	Power	Field	Arm	Run
55	60	50	55	50	60	60

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Geoff Pontes

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-2
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits/Throws: S/R
Acquired: 2017 Draft, Round 2
RuleV: 2021

Physical Description: A tall, lean, athletic build. Not terribly broad, which leads to some questions around how much projection remains. Wiry strength, with good muscle, high waisted, with little concerns over long term maintenance.

Hit: Switch-hitter that's an obvious natural left handed hitter. Struggles to replicate contact and power against left handed pitching on the right hand side of the plate. He setups, slightly open on the left side, and gets excellent extension on balls on the outer-half but is still able to stay compact on the outer part of the plate. Hands set by ear flap, utilizes leg lift timing mechanism. The swing from both sides can best be described as "handsy" as he does not do a great job of generating power from his lower half. This is offset by his ability to sync up and stay balanced to the ball with a heavily angular swing. This allows him to cut down on the swing and miss versus righthanders and generate hard airborne contact with regularity. As a right handed hitter Waters profile is reversed despite a similar setup. It's a contact over power profile, but he still manages to make inconsistent contact versus lefthanders. He's susceptible to whiffing on breaking balls and offspeed in general. However, it's accentuated from the right side where he can best be described as relentlessly pestered. It's a plus hit tool from the left side, but a poor profile from the right. The fact that he's strong side platoon heavy softens the blow to his overall hit grade. Grade: 50

Power: Without getting further in the weeds comparing and contrasting Waters' righty and lefty swings suffice it to say the power plays similarly to his contact. Of his 113 extra base hits since the start of 2018, only 21 are against left handed pitching. The good news there is Waters has averaged 56-57 extra base hits a season. They've mostly come in the form of doubles and triples, but it's reasonable to anticipate some of those turn to home runs as he ages. His elite bat speed and god given hands, allow him to hit for above average power in game despite his lack of leverage in his swing. Excellent extension at the point of contact and an uncanny ability to drive the ball versus right handed pitching. Analytically his 2019 metrics back up an above average grade with his max exit velocity topping 112 mph and an average EV of 89.5 mph. As Waters adds strength and his approach matures he should provide split heavy power production annually. Grade: 55

Field: Has seen time at all three outfield positions. Has the plus makeup speed needed for centerfield but not the natural instincts. In another organization that doesn't have Cristian Pache, Waters likely sees all of his time in center. He played predominantly left field in 2019, but looks capable of handling right. His arm plays in either spot but it's just league average defense, which is valuable with an above average offensive profile like Waters. Grade: 50

Arm: Clocked at 95 mph from the outfield prior to his draft year and Waters has not lost any strength in his arm since. Less accurate than the double plus arms we'll grade this year, but his arm strength and quick trigger allow it to play as plus. More than enough arm for any position in the outfield. Grade: 60

Run: A plus runner who's speed plays in game, as mentioned in his fielding tool description Waters speed allows his inconsistent reads to go somewhat shielded due to his makeup speed. It's the same at the plate and in the bases. He consistently clocks plus home to first from each side of the plate, and steals bases at a high rate (78% success since 2018). Plus speed that plays in all facets of Waters game. Grade: 60

Overall: Waters destroys right handed pitching to the point he's an easy 60 hit/power from that side long term. For example at his two longest tenured stops in pro-ball (2018 A & 2019 double-A), Waters slashed .325/.381/.578 against righthanders in 2018 with Rome, and followed it up by slashing .334/.384/.512 with Mississippi in 2019. I have every confidence that Waters could come up to the bigs and be productive against right handed pitching while providing value in the field and on the bases. This is enough to carve him out a starting role, but there's still some chance a team limits his exposure versus left handed pitching. Likely enough value across the board for Waters to have some all-star level seasons, especially if he can raise his hitting versus left handed pitching to a below average (40) level.

OFP: 55
Role: 60 - Above-Average Regular - Occasional All-Star
Risk: Moderate

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Cristian Pache - Scouting Report

Rank History

Year	Team	Position	Team Rank	OFP
2021	ATL	OF	1	60

Grades Update: Dec 2020

OFP	Role	Hit	Power	Field	Arm	Run
60	70	50	50	70	70	70

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Dec 2020 Report

Evaluator: Geoff Pontes

Age: 22 yr
Height: 6-2
Weight: 215 lbs
Hits/Throws: R/R
Acquired: 2015 IFA
RuleV: On 40-Man Roster

Physical Description: Tall, athletic, muscular, but still lean, Pache is built like an NFL receiver with similar footspeed to some of the top burners in professional sports. His shoulders are broad, and his frame has continued to add positive weight over the last two seasons. He's started to shed some of the baby fat as he's added more muscle to his frame, without losing his elite speed. He's ticked down from the 80 runner he was as a teenager, but his speed still plays in double plus territory, particularly in the field. Still 10 to 15 pounds of muscle remain in his frame hinting at some latent power upside.

Hit: Sets up fairly square to the pitcher with a slightly off-set front foot. We've seen different iterations of this stance over the last year with a string of key elements. He's far more upright now than he had been early in 2019, and has gone from closed off, to slightly open, to a happy medium of the two. He employs a leg lift trigger that will vary in height and exaggeration on fastballs versus breaking pitches and offspeed. This gives me a fairly high comfort level with his pitch recognition as it manifests in the physical form. He's not going to produce barrels at a high rate, at least initially, but he should continually square up and make average to above average quality of contact. His swing path is on the longer side, but that goes hand in hand with his ability to extend on pitches on the outer half. There's some swing and miss at times due to his swing length but his innate hand eye coordination and discerning eye negate some of the exposure. One knock I have is Pache's tendency to lean in heavily at the point of contact and in follow through putting him in poor running position. The adjustments to the more upright setup seem to be a conscious effort to neutralize this. Overall an average hit tool due to a lack of high end hard contact and some swing and miss. Still some projection for this grade to tick up in the coming years. Grade: 50

Power: The early years of Pache's professional career were a lesson in projection, development, and progression. In his first 832 plate appearances across three levels Pache had zero home runs and a light isolated slugging of .070. Over his last 951 MiLB plate appearances he hit 21, and more than doubled his ISO right as he started to transform physically from a gangly teenager to a young man. He has the bat speed, strength and extension to produce average home run totals at peak. He gets into good hitting position and has continued to get comfortable as he's refined his setup and swing path. His excellent speed once underway allows him to boost his overall slugging profile but turning gap shots into doubles and triples. His 2019 data supports an average power grade with an average launch angle of 13 degrees, average exit velocity of 88 mph, and a max of 107 mph. Keep in mind all of that was done as a 20 year old. Grade: 50

Field: Pache's strongest skill and one of the loudest defensive profiles in the minors. Excellent vision in the field, strong body control, and elite makeup speed allow Pache to cover significant ground in centerfield. He's athletic enough to make diving plays and put himself into position to get the ball back into the infield quickly. He'll likely be one of the strongest outfield defenders in the majors day one. Already showcased his run saving ability during the Braves NLCS run this season. Grade: 70

Arm: Double plus arm strength and good accuracy on throws into the infield. Excellent online carry and top level velocities of 96+ mph from centerfield per Statcast. A true rifle of an arm that's a weapon with his defensive profile. Grade: 70

Run: Double plus runner, Pache derives the most value from his speed as a defender. His aforementioned strong makeup speed and ability to cover much ground in center allow his defensive tool to rate as highly as it does. Offensively he's not a great base stealer despite his speed, and he's slowed coming out of the box due to a poor running position on follow through of his swing. He does show the ability to turn of the jets with a ball hit in the gap easily turning some singles to doubles and doubles to triples. While he's not a great base stealer, he's a very good baserunner. Grade: 70

Overall: Arguably the most tooled up prospect at the moment. Pache should break camp as the Braves everyday centerfielder from day one. While the tools and upside have always been apparent the offensive upside finally began to manifest itself in 2019. His early MLB returns while underwhelming in a small sample, showed flashes of brilliance. The Braves have instilled a high level of confidence in Pache from his first days within the organization, and that confidence shines through in his play on both sides of the ball. The offensive profile as it stands looks capable of average to a tick better production with more growth in the tank. That combined with his elite centerfield defense give Pache the upside of the great centerfielders of yesteryear. The archetype of Torii Hunter or Andrew Jones, deriving value on both sides of the ball, but with their all-world defense as their carrying tool.

OFP: 60
Role: 70 - Impact Player - Perennial All-Star
Risk: Moderate

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