The hype train can be fickle at times. People hop on and off for numerous reasons. Player development can be stemmed by injuries, suspension, or personal struggles. The nice thing about baseball is there are often many opportunities to regain form. MLB players are said to reach their prime by the age of 27, so there is still time for a ‘failed’ prospect to figure things out. Below are three post-hype prospects who have fizzled but look to produce in 2024.
3 Post-Hype Prospects Who Could Still Break Out
Kristian Robinson, OF, ARI
It seems like a long time since Kristin Robinson last played professional baseball. He was once the top-rated prospect for the Diamondbacks, possessing tantalizing athleticism and raw power. Robinson was arrested for felony assault charges in 2020 for fighting a law enforcement officer. Fast forward three years, Robinson, now 23, is back participating in the Diamondbacks minor leagues. In 2023, Robinson hit .283/.382/.532 with 14 HR, 42 RBI, and 42 runs while stealing 23 bases across four levels. Reaching double-A where the average age is roughly 24, puts him back on track. Look for Robinson to start the season at double-A, and then reach triple-A by season’s end. A taste of the majors is not out of the question.
Sixto Sanchez, SP, MIA
Formerly regarded as the Miami Marlin’s best pitching prospect back. Sixto Sanchez made his MLB debut in 2020, looking like a frontrunner for a rotation spot in 2021. That was before Sanchez was forced to miss multiple seasons with shoulder injuries requiring multiple surgeries. The 2023 season was a lost cause as he was only able to pitch one inning. This would not give much reason for a vote of confidence, but he could slide to the bullpen. If he became a relief pitcher, it may keep him healthy while allowing his stuff to play up. Currently, in Spring Training he has pitched a one-inning outing striking out one with no hits or walks. He was still averaging 95 mph with his fastball and commanded his curveball and changeup. With Sanchez, it was never a question of stuff, it was always injuries. If he can stay healthy, he could take over a high-leverage bullpen spot.
Mike Soroka, SP, CHW
Mike Soroka is another player who was productive when healthy, but injuries derailed the past few seasons. Soroka debuted in 2018 and pitched well enough in 2019 to receive an invitation to the All-Star game. He then had back-to-back seasons where he tore his Achilles undergoing three surgeries. Soroka returned to pitch 25 innings in the minors in 2022, visibly rusty. In 2023 he pitched well in triple-A with a 3.41 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, 92 K’s, and 28 walks in 87 innings. Soroka was promoted to Atlanta but struggled in 32.1 innings with a 6.40 ERA, 1.48 WHIP, and 28 K’s. The Brave’s organizational depth has caused a pressure vacuum for rotation spots. The trade to the White Sox this off-season should allow Soroka to just focus on executing without looking over his shoulder. Look for Soroka to regain some of his early career success in 2024.
What’s your take on these post-hype prospects? Let us know in the comments below. For more of the great fantasy baseball rankings and analysis you’ve come to expect from FantraxHQ, check out our full 2024 Fantasy Baseball Draft Kit! We’re here for you all the way up until Opening Day and then on into your championship run.