The Atlanta Braves’ farm system boasts a wave of talent, particularly pitchers, nearing readiness for the majors. With pitching depth a perpetual priority, several arms—along with a standout position player—could earn their first MLB call-ups in 2025. While established prospects like AJ Smith-Shawver and Hurston Waldrep may secure roles first, here’s a look at potential newcomers who could make their mark this season, focusing on those yet to debut.
1. Drake Baldwin (C/OF/DH, Preseason Rank: #1)
As the Braves’ top hitting prospect, Baldwin is poised to step in if injuries strike catchers Sean Murphy or Travis d’Arnaud. His offensive prowess and versatility—Atlanta previously considered testing him in the outfield—make him a valuable depth piece. Should designated hitter Marcell Ozuna face setbacks, Baldwin’s bat could also fill the DH slot. Expect him to log significant MLB time, especially if Murphy requires extended rest.
2. JR Ritchie (RHP, Preseason Rank: #4)
Despite limited pro innings and a recent injury history, Ritchie’s elite potential mirrors the rapid ascents of Braves prospects like Spencer Schwellenbach. His three-pitch arsenal (fastball, slider, changeup) flashes plus grades, though consistency remains key. A velocity rebound and improved command could fast-track him to a mid-rotation role, albeit likely requiring injuries ahead of him to accelerate his timeline.
3. Jhancarlos Lara (RHP, Preseason Rank: #11)
Lara’s triple-digit fastball and devastating slider give him high-leverage reliever upside. Command lapses and a shaky 2024 campaign raise questions, but a full-time bullpen shift might maximize his strengths. With Rule 5 eligibility looming, Atlanta could promote him late in 2025 to evaluate his MLB readiness.
4. Lucas Braun (RHP, Preseason Rank: #12)
A polished command artist, Braun’s slider-driven mix projects him as a reliable spot starter or long reliever. Though lacking ace upside, his ability to eat innings and avoid hard contact (unlike recent depth arms) makes him a likely mid season call-up, especially as rotation attrition mounts.
5. Drue Hackenberg (RHP, Preseason Rank: #13)
Hackenberg’s diverse fastball shapes and secondary offerings hint at mid-rotation potential, but shaky command limits his immediate ceiling. If he sharpens his changeup and control, he could leapfrog peers for a late-season audition. For now, he’s a high-risk, high-reward candidate.
6. Blake Burkhalter (RHP, Preseason Rank: #15)
Burkhalter’s cutter-fastball combo already plays in the majors, though his secondary pitches need refinement. A move to the bullpen could fast-track his debut, leveraging his two best pitches for short outings. While 2026 seems likelier for a rotation bid, relief work in 2025 isn’t off the table.
7. Hayden Harris (LHP, Preseason Rank: #24)
Harris’ elite fastball dominated minor league hitters early in 2024 before command faded. His slider’s inconsistency at Triple-A raises concerns, but improved secondary pitch execution could cement him as a lefty specialist. A mid-90s heater with life keeps him in the bullpen conversation.
8. Domingo Gonzalez (RHP, Preseason Rank: #28)
Already on the 40-man roster, Gonzalez is a frontrunner for bullpen shuttle duty. His sweeping slider and improved fastball command fueled a 38.8% strikeout rate in the minors last year. While not a high-leverage option yet, his floor as a reliable middle reliever makes him a near-lock for MLB innings.
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