Padres’ Kruz Schoolcraft Breaks Into MLB Top 100 Prospects List
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Despite limited professional experience, San Diego Padres pitching prospect Kruz Schoolcraft has earned a spot on MLB’s Top 100 Prospects list heading into the 2026 season, landing at No. 88. The left-handed pitcher is currently the only representative from the Padres organization on the prestigious ranking.
The 18-year-old Schoolcraft’s rapid ascent is particularly noteworthy given he has appeared in just one professional game. He was selected as the 25th overall pick in the 2025 draft and is already being hailed as a potential steal for the Padres.
A Unique Physical Profile
Schoolcraft’s rise is attributed to his exceptional physical attributes. Standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing 230 pounds, the young pitcher possesses a rare combination of size and athleticism. He won’t celebrate his 19th birthday until March 18, leaving ample time for development before reaching the major leagues.
His fastball already reaches 99 mph, an impressive velocity for a player his age. However, his most effective pitch is a 60-grade changeup that consistently deceives hitters. “He already has the ability to sell it as a fastball out of the hand,” one scouting report noted, “and with a 10-mph dropoff, hitters are consistently left off balance.”
Developing a Complete Arsenal
While Schoolcraft’s fastball and changeup are already highly regarded, he also features a 50-grade slider that requires further refinement. Developing this breaking ball is a key focus for the Padres’ development staff. Historically, left-handed pitchers often find sliders easier to master, and the foundation of a strong fastball-changeup combination provides an encouraging starting point.
The Padres believe their staff can quickly elevate the slider to match the quality of his other pitches. Schoolcraft is scheduled to begin the 2026 season with the Lake Elsinore Storm, giving him his first full season of professional experience. In his single appearance last year, he pitched 1.2 innings, allowing two runs while striking out four batters.
Strikeout Potential and Future Outlook
A strong start to the 2026 season could propel Schoolcraft quickly through the Padres’ farm system. His immense strikeout potential is a major asset, and maintaining a strikeout rate around 25% would significantly enhance his reputation. With consistent production, he could climb into the top 50 prospects and potentially earn a promotion to Double-A later in the year.
Interestingly, Schoolcraft was initially drafted as a two-way prospect, showcasing exceptional power as a first baseman – a “plus-70 raw power” according to draft reports. However, the Padres have opted to focus solely on his pitching development, recognizing his potential to dominate on the mound.
A Significant Investment
General Manager A.J. Preller invested over $3.5 million to sign Schoolcraft after his selection at Sunset High School in Beaverton, Oregon. That investment appears to be paying off, as his rapid development has positioned him as a key component of the Padres’ future.
For a Padres rotation in need of left-handed starting pitching, Schoolcraft represents a beacon of hope. The only current drawback, according to team analysts, is that fans won’t see him contributing at the major league level until at least 2027.
