Beyond the Top 30: 10 Diamondbacks Prospects to Watch in 2026
The Arizona Diamondbacks have a wealth of young talent, and while Baseball America's recent Top 30 list is impressive, there are other prospects who are worth keeping an eye on. Here are 10 players who just missed the cut but still have the potential to make a significant impact in the MLB.
Jose Fernandez (SS): A high-upside prospect since 2021, Fernandez had a breakthrough season in 2025, showcasing his ability to mash left-handed pitching. His defensive skills at shortstop make him a versatile asset.
Yilber Diaz (RHP): Diaz's power-armed pitching reached the majors in 2024, but he struggled with control in 2025. He needs to improve his strike-throwing to regain the trust of the organization.
Junior Ciprian (RHP): With a fastball up to 98 mph and a swing-and-miss slider, Ciprian has the potential to be a dominant arm. However, he needs to refine his command and develop a reliable changeup.
Hunter Cranton (RHP): Part of the Eugenio Suarez trade, Cranton is a power reliever who faced health issues last year. If he stays healthy, he could be a key addition to the Diamondbacks' bullpen.
Andrew Hoffmann (RHP): Hoffmann, acquired at the trade deadline, showed promise with a changeup that could be a valuable asset in relief pitching.
Kyle Amendt (RHP): Amendt's deceptive pitching style, featuring a 92 mph fastball, makes him a tricky opponent. His ability to miss bats with sliders and curveballs is a plus, and he was set back by a shoulder injury in 2025.
Caden Grice (LHP): Grice, a left-handed pitcher, missed the entire 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery. Before the injury, he displayed three average-plus pitches, and if he regains his stuff, he could quickly re-emerge as a top prospect.
Roman Angelo (RHP): Angelo's mid-90s fastball and plus changeup make him a potential relief pitcher. While he struggled with command in hitter-friendly environments in 2025, his arsenal could be a game-changer if starting pitching doesn't pan out.
Alberto Barriga (C): Barriga, an organizational favorite, had a disappointing 2025 season in Visalia, hitting just .199. His powerful throwing arm is a tool, but he needs to improve his hitting to become a viable backup catcher.
Juan Burgos (RHP): Burgos, part of the Eugenio Suarez trade, has a mid-90s fastball, cutter, and sweeper in his repertoire. He fits the profile of a low-ceiling, high-floor reliever, and his performance will be crucial for the team's future success.
