Top 10 Rising Stars in Arizona Fall League Shine Bright

The Arizona Fall League (AFL) continues to spotlight emerging talent, with various prospects showcasing impressive performances in recent games. This week, a panel from Baseball America ranked the top ten players making significant strides in the league. The list reflects performances from the past week and highlights the potential of these young athletes.

Sam Antonacci Leads the Pack

Sam Antonacci, a 22-year-old second baseman for the Glendale Desert Dogs, demonstrated his prowess with a remarkable batting line of .692/.765/.923 over the past week. He recorded nine hits in 13 at-bats, scoring five runs and stealing five bases. Antonacci’s ability to reach base 13 times in 17 plate appearances underlines his exceptional contact skills. Although he may not possess overwhelming power, his speed and approach at the plate make him a valuable prospect for the Chicago White Sox.

Kevin McGonigle’s Continued Dominance

Following a stellar regular season, Kevin McGonigle, a 21-year-old shortstop playing for the Scottsdale Scorpions, maintained his form in the AFL with an impressive .500/.579/.875 line. He hit two home runs in a standout performance, including a game-winner against Los Angeles Angels pitcher Najer Victor. McGonigle’s ability to reach base in all 11 games this season positions him as a strong candidate for the American League Rookie of the Year in 2026.

Another rising star, Karson Milbrandt, a right-handed pitcher for the Mesa Solar Sox, also made headlines. With a 3.38 ERA and 14 strikeouts over just 5.2 innings, Milbrandt has proven to be one of the AFL’s most dominant pitchers. While his control needs refinement, his strikeout rate of 52.8% showcases his potential to cause problems for hitters.

Offensive Showcases from Multiple Players

Outfielder Jack Hurley of the Salt River Rafters had a week to remember, hitting .385 with two home runs and driving in eight runs. His strong performance included a near cycle game, highlighting his offensive capabilities. Meanwhile, Raudi Rodriguez, also from the Rafters, showed his versatility with a .438 batting average. His ability to excel in various aspects of the game, including speed and hitting for power, reinforces his status as a top prospect for the Los Angeles Angels.

Other notable performances came from Josh Adamczewski and Luke Adams, both of whom continued to impress in the AFL. Adamczewski, a versatile player for the Surprise Saguaros, has quickly established himself among the Milwaukee Brewers’ top prospects with a .429 average this week. Adams, also with the Saguaros, showcased his unique batting style while hitting .462, further cementing his potential for a future role in the majors.

Emerging Talents to Watch

Prospects like Leo Balcazar and Charlie Condon are also making noise in the league. Balcazar, playing for the Peoria Javelinas, is aiming to secure a spot on the Cincinnati Reds’ 40-man roster, while Condon is demonstrating his hitting skills with a .438 average for the Rockies.

Finally, James Hicks, a 24-year-old right-handed pitcher with the Scottsdale Scorpions, has yet to allow a run in three starts while maintaining a 14-to-1 strikeout-to-walk ratio. His ability to mix pitches effectively without overpowering hitters demonstrates his craftiness on the mound.

As the Arizona Fall League progresses, these players are solidifying their statuses as prospects to watch, potentially paving the way for future opportunities in Major League Baseball. The combination of skill, performance, and potential makes this league a crucial stepping stone for young athletes aiming for the big leagues.