12 Days of Prospects: Day 6, Jordan Walker
We’re halfway through our 12 days of prospect series, and for Day 6 we take a look at the St. Louis Cardinals’ No. 1 overall prospect. Third baseman Jordan Walker is their guy, so let’s see what makes him so special.
The Numbers
Scouting grades on the 20-80 scale:
- Hit: 55
- Power: 65
- Run: 50
- Arm: 65
- Field: 50
- Overall: 60
The 2020 first-round pick has been doing wonders with his bat in the minors. He’s only reached Double-A, but so far he’s a career .300 hitter down there. He spent his entire 2022 season in Double-A, batting .306/.388/.510 with 19 home runs, 68 RBIs, and 22 stolen bases. Walker also had 31 doubles and exactly 100 runs in 119 games.
While he had 18 errors at third base, Walker has been praised for his arm and instincts at third base and is still expected to grow above-average defense. Walker also played 21 games in the Arizona Fall League this year, batting .286 with five home runs and 16 RBIs.
The Potential
Walker can do just about everything and has been absolutely mashing in the minor leagues. While in Single-A, his exit velocity maxed out at 116.2 mph, which was similar to sluggers such as Juan Soto and Fernando Tatis Jr. in 2021.
While it’s only been two seasons, Walker has already proven to have the tools of an elite hitter, both contact and power. His 6-foot-5 size doesn’t slow down his speed either, as he already has 36 stolen bases in those two seasons.
Because Nolan Arenado owns third base, the Cardinals have been trying Walker out at all three outfield positions. He obviously has some work to do such as getting his feet working better, but it’s part of the process.
Whether he’s in the infield or outfield, Walker’s bat will take him plenty far as he’s sure to be an All-Star caliber player.
The Verdict
Walker’s name has been thrown around a bit in potential trade packages, but the Cardinals seem pretty locked on him being untouchable. He’s developing at an insanely fast rate, and it’s possible we see him make his debut in 2023.
Finding a defensive home is the only thing Walker needs, and assuming it’s not third base, giving him the time to learn that new position. Walker and No. 2 prospect Masyn Winn are going to be an elite duo for the Cardinals if they hang onto them, and it leaves their future extremely bright.
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