Last season, we profiled hitting and pitching prospects to watch in the Minor Leagues for fantasy baseball — and we’re bringing it back for 2024. Now that the 2024 MiLB season has kicked off, here’s a look — albeit a Triple-A heavy one — at five hitting prospects that have gotten off to good starts and are names to key in on.
Jordan Beck
Former Tennessee Volunteer Jordan Beck was drafted 38th overall by Colorado two years ago and he’s getting close to knocking on the Rockies’ door. A year after Beck hit 25 home runs and stole 20 bases, the Rockies outfield prospect hit two home runs and four extra-base hits in his first five games at Triple-A.
Beck strikes out a lot but he will also draw a fair amount of walks, as well. When Beck eventually gets the call, the 22-year-old will be a name to watch. He’s got speed, and anyone with power who plays in Colorado is worth a look.
Junior Caminero
The one player on this list with MLB experience is Junior Caminero, who’s off to a solid start with Triple-A Durham. Caminero accrued four hits in his first four games, along with a home run and a stolen base.
Caminero belted 31 home runs thanks to his plus power, so the righty should be a solid fit in Tropicana Field like fellow right-handed pull hitter Isaac Paredes is. The question, though, will be when the Rays pull the trigger and promote Caminero for good — or will Caminero force their hand earlier?
Owen Caissie
Cubs outfield prospect Owen Caissie has slowly developed into a very intriguing player. A former second-round pick, Caissie hit a career-high 22 home runs in 2023 and he got off to a good start with Triple-A Iowa. The 21-year-old notched nine hits in his first five games of 2024.
One issue with Caissie isn’t so much his potential — he’s poised to be a good power hitter but one who likely won’t steal much — but rather whether he’ll get a long look in 2024. The Cubs have Ian Happ, Cody Bellinger, and Seiya Suzuki in the outfield, as well as Pete Crow-Armstrong and Alexander Canario as callup options. Nonetheless, Caissie’s a name to watch.
Jackson Holliday
It’s safe to say that many MLB and Orioles fans, as well as fantasy players, are on Jackson Holliday watch. The 2024 AL Rookie of the Year contender belted a pair of home runs over his first five games and notched 10 hits, tied for second in the International League. And much like in the spring, Holliday has played mostly at second base to start 2024.
Holliday is likely owned in the majority of most formats — for reference, he’s only available in 24% of Yahoo! leagues as of April 4 — so it’s simply a waiting game for those who own him.
Joey Loperfido
One of the more interesting breakout Minor League stars last season was Joey Loperfido. The Astros utilityman hit 25 home runs last season across three levels and stole 27 bases, as well. Through his first five games in Triple-A this season, Loperfido — who has a short swing, quick hands, and minimal head movement — drilled four home runs.
Loperfido has intrigue written all over him from a fantasy perspective. The 24-year-old can wreak havoc on the bases and hit for power. Not to mention, Loperfido should carry defensive versatility. He has Minor League experience at all three outfield positions, plus first and second base.