FanSided 15 MLB Prospects June Update: Happy Graduation

3: SS Elly De La Cruz: Cincinnati Reds

Baseball America: 3 | MLB Pipeline: 4

Elly De La Cruz made his major league debut for the Reds on Tuesday against the Dodgers and received a standing ovation.

After recording a .297 batting average, .398 on-base percentage, and .633 slugging percentage at Triple-A, coupled with an impressive weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 152, De La Cruz joins Matt McLain, who was called up earlier this season, to form one of the most potent offenses from the left side of the infield.

Standing at 6-foot-5, De La Cruz is among the fastest players you’ll see, taking long strides on the base path. His power is also evident, demonstrated by his batting cleanup in his professional debut and playing third base.

2: OF Jackson Chourio: Milwaukee Brewers

Baseball America: 1 | MLB Pipeline: 2

Chourio remains secure in his second spot on the list, continuing to adjust well as the youngest player in Double-A. He was recently highlighted in the fourth episode of “The Freshman,” a professionally produced and visually appealing video by MLB.com.

Based on the recent activity on our number one prospect, it will not be too long before Chourio takes over the top spot.

1. OF Jordan Walker: Cardinals

Baseball America: 2 | MLB Pipeline: 1

Walker has returned to the Cardinals following Lars Nootbaar’s placement on the injured list. The primary challenge for Walker? He needs to increase his fly ball rate, currently at a 59% groundball rate.

He got some advice from his teammate down in Memphis, Taylor Motter that may help him achieve more lift. Per Forbes.com, Motter told Walker he needed to catch more ball out front, so essentially, he needs to swing earlier.