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PHOENIX, January 26, 2026 – Arizona Diamondbacks prospect Ryan Waldschmidt is quickly becoming a name to watch, cracking two prominent top 100 MLB prospect lists this week and signaling a potential fast track to the majors.
rising Star: Waldschmidt’s Impressive Ascent
The 22-year-old outfielder is generating buzz with his data-driven performance and defensive improvements.
- Waldschmidt was ranked No. 34 by The Athletic and No. 63 by ESPN.
- He significantly improved his ranking from previous lists, jumping 31 spots on Keith Law’s list.
- The Diamondbacks’ 2025 Minor League Player of the Year could compete for a starting outfield role in 2026.
Waldschmidt landed at No. 34 on Keith Law’s top 100 prospects list released Monday, a substantial leap from his previous ranking. ESPN’s kiley McDaniel followed suit on Tuesday, placing Waldschmidt at No. 63 on ESPN’s Top 100 Prospects list.
Drafted No. 31 pick by Arizona.His junior season at Kentucky revealed clear improvements in contact metrics, exit velocity, and speed.
In 2025, Waldschmidt showcased his offensive prowess, recording 18 home runs and 29 stolen bases across High-A Hillsboro and Double-A Amarillo. He slashed .268/.415/.447 with 9 home runs and 43 RBI in 68 games at Hillsboro, then elevated his performance to .309/.423/.498 with 9 home runs and 35 RBI in 66 games at Amarillo. Law pointed out that his raw statistics benefited from playing in Amarillo, where the wind conditions are exceptionally favorable for hitters.
A Potential All-Star?
Despite the wind factor, the data suggests a promising future. McDaniel believes Waldschmidt projects as a “solid regular with above-average defence in an outfield corner” with the potential to reach All-Star level with 20-plus home runs per season. Law echoes this sentiment, envisioning a player who could become an All-Star in years where he hits over 20 home runs.
The Diamondbacks recognized Waldschmidt’s progress, naming him their 2025 Minor League Player of the Year. He was also ranked No. 66 on MLB Pipeline’s top prospects list at the end of the season, a ranking he improved to No. 59 heading into 2026, according to MLB Pipeline.
With outfielder Lourdes gurriel Jr. expected to miss at least two months recovering from a torn ACL, and the team yet to make any notable outfield acquisitions this offseason, general manager Related
