OF Joshua Baez
With all of the hype surrounding 2020 draftees Walker, Winn, and Hence, as well as other risers in the Cardinals system, it is easy to overlook that St. Louis has another prospect with elite tools that is showing promise already in Joshua Baez.
Currently the #6 prospect in a deep Cardinals system, Baez is just 19 years old and has elite raw power due to his 6’4 frame. Down in the Cardinals rookie affiliate, Baez has a .789 OPS in 2022 in very limited appearances, but like Hence before, there is no rush on the Cardinals end to get a large sample size.
Anytime you find a young outfielder who boasts elite power and the ability to play center field, the potential of such a player causes a lot of excitement. His greatest tool may be his arm though, meaning if he transitions to a corner outfield spot, Baez has the ability to be a game changer with his throws.
Baez is likely the furthest away from the majors of anyone on this list, and it will be awhile before St. Louis seriously considers making him a big leaguer. Every good farm system needs guys on different timelines though, and Baez is a guy who could be the elite prospect in the system by the time other guys graduate.