The 2022 MLB Draft is closer than we think, and with college baseball entering postseason play, it is time to look at some potential Braves targets. I’m focusing on college prospects because as of late, Atlanta has loaded up on guys out of college rather than high school.
Gabriel Hughes, RHP, Gonzaga
Gabriel Hughes, a Sophomore at Gonzaga, is currently projected to fall to the Braves by MLB’s website. It would be a prototypical Braves pick, as they’ve tended to take college pitchers early on. Hughes has performed well at Gonzaga, posting a sparkling 2.62 ERA so far this year with an elite 13.7 K/9 ratio. While it may be tough to lure him away from school — his Gonzaga bio mentions plans to attend medical school — Atlanta could try and go over-slot to sign him.
Got to see RHP Gabriel Hughes Friday night. Solid for six innings then found a different level and completely took over, striking out 6 of 7 at one point. Heavy FB at 93-95, 96. Sharp 11/5 breaker at 83-86. Love the competitive demeanor.@DSeifertD1PBR | @PBR_DraftHQ | #mlbdraft pic.twitter.com/7zKanBVVZB
— Nathan Rode (@NathanRode) May 23, 2022
The 6’4” righty has the results on paper, and MLB’s scouting report reveals that he has a plus fastball to go along with an above average slider and changeup. I’d be thrilled if the Braves snagged him.
Logan Tanner, C, Mississippi State
After trading Shea Langeliers to the Athletics in the Matt Olson deal, Atlanta has no catchers in their top 30 prospects. Drafting Logan Tanner would alleviate that concern. Tanner’s scouting grades are reminiscent of Langeliers — both were graded as powerful plus-plus arms that can do some damage at the dish.
Unreal arm strength & athleticism on display by Mississippi State’s Logan Tanner. This play was probably not repped much. It’s basically a reaction play where you trust your body to organize itself to accomplish the goal of throwing a runner out. pic.twitter.com/GIppZRHaQd
— Jerry Weinstein (@JWonCATCHING) December 10, 2021
Tanner is having a brilliant season at Mississippi State, hitting .285 with seven homers for the Bulldogs. Additionally, he has keen plate vision, drawing 79 walks over his collegiate career compared to just 100 strikeouts. With so few catchers in the minors that move the needle, the Braves would be wise to draft one early this year.
Jud Fabian, OF, Florida
The Braves have many bright prospects in the outfield at all levels — Michael Harris and Drew Waters being two of the most well-known. Even outside of those two, there’s underrated players like Jesse Franklin, Trey Harris and Landon Stephens. However, Jud Fabian may be too talented to pass up.
Dude has a 1.162 OPS and 19 homers through 44 games. I know outfield isn’t Atlanta’s first priority, but you gotta take him if there’s any chance he falls far enough in the draft. Projected at no. 31 by @BaseballAmerica https://t.co/FXeukTQrUD
— Caleb Thomas (@cthomas6204) May 4, 2022
The Gators outfielder, projected to go in the late first round, has lit up pitching while also cutting back on strikeout worries in his senior year. He’s hit 20 homers and dropped his strikeout rate nearly 10% this season.
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