As Opening Day approaches, Mets righthander Nolan McLean stands tall as the top pitcher on Baseball America’s Top 100 Prospects list. But his reign might be short-lived.
McLean is just a couple of innings or a week of active service away from graduating from prospect status. So, his first start could also be his last day on that prestigious list.
Beyond McLean, there's a lineup of promising pitching prospects ready to make their MLB debut. Blue Jays' Trey Yesavage is sidelined with a shoulder impingement from spring training, but Pirates' Bubba Chandler and Phillies' Andrew Painter are poised to graduate early in the season.
As these talents move up, a new wave of pitchers is ready to step into the spotlight. Let's dive into some intriguing prospects who could soon claim the top spot.
Seth Hernandez, RHP, Pirates
It might seem early to crown Hernandez as the No. 1 pitching prospect, but his potential is undeniable. At just 19 and a 2025 first-round pick, he’s already turning heads, even without an official pro pitch under his belt.
During the Pirates’ Spring Breakout game, Hernandez showcased his electric arm, hitting 102 mph on his first pitch. And it wasn’t a fluke-he consistently sat at 100-101 mph, with his "slowest" pitch clocking in at 99.2 mph. With a promising curveball and changeup, Hernandez is a teenager already ahead of the curve, both physically and mentally.
The Pirates have a gem in Hernandez, and while he's still developing, his raw talent is thrilling. This is just the beginning of what could be an exciting career.
Ryan Sloan, RHP, Mariners
Before spring training, Sloan was a name to watch outside the top 50, and he's living up to that potential. After an impressive showing against a lineup of top prospects in the Brewers’ Spring Breakout game, Sloan’s stock is rising fast.
For three innings, Sloan masterfully dismantled a talented Milwaukee lineup, striking out high-profile prospects like Jett Williams and Brock Wilken. His mix of heat, spin, and movement kept the Brewers’ bats quiet, with few managing solid contact.
Sloan’s physical presence and strategic approach on the mound make him a formidable opponent. All signs point to him being a frontline starter-it's just a matter of time.
Thomas White, LHP, Marlins
White is a top-ranked pitcher yet to make his MLB debut. Despite a Grade 1 oblique strain sidelining him this spring, his potential remains sky-high.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and 210 pounds, White has a powerful arsenal, including a standout slider. His whiff rate in 2025 was just under 50%, showcasing his ability to dominate hitters. Once healthy, White is sure to be in the conversation for top pitching prospect.
Kendry Chourio, RHP, Royals
Chourio, the Royals' top international signing in 2025, is making waves. After impressing in the Dominican Summer League, he continues to show promise in spring training.
With a fastball sitting at 96-98 mph and a developing curveball, Chourio is on the right track. However, refining a third pitch will be crucial for his ascent. The 2026 season will be pivotal in determining how much of his potential is realized.
Each of these pitchers brings something special to the table, and as the season unfolds, we'll see who rises to the top. The future of pitching is bright, and these young arms are ready to make their mark.