1. Adley Rutschman
Minors (RK, A-, A): .254/.351/.423, eight doubles, four homers, one stolen base
Let’s face it – every Baltimore Orioles top prospect list is going to have Adley Rutschman atop their rankings. In fact, it would not be a surprise to see him ranked as a consensus top ten prospect at the start of the year.
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The first overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, Rutschman certainly lived up to the hype in his first season in the minors. The winner of the Golden Spikes and Dick Howser awards in 2019, Rutschman was already considered the top player in the draft, but managed to further increase his stock.
A switch hitting catcher, he is considered to be the complete package at the plate. Rutschman has displayed an advanced approach, with an excellent batting eye and respectable contact ability. His power is still developing, as he is more of a gap hitter at this point, but he could develop into a catcher with above average pop at the dish.
Rutschman also earns praise for his work behind the plate. He is considered to have tremendous leadership abilities, which adds to his excellent defensive profile. Rutschman has displayed excellent hands and a strong throwing arm, showing the potential to be a Gold Glove caliber catcher once he reaches the majors.
It may not take long for Adley Rutschman to reach the majors. Once he does, the Baltimore Orioles could have their backstop for the next decade.