Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Joshua Baez is a top-100 prospect in MLB and the centerpiece of the Memphis Redbirds' success in Triple-A. The 23-year-old was drafted by the Cardinals in the 2nd round in 2021 out of high school. In 2025, he was one of only two minor leaguers to achieve 20+ home runs and 50+ stolen bases, showcasing elite power-speed combination. Currently in his first AAA stint in 2026, Baez is hitting .233/.307/.487 with 10 home runs and 7 stolen bases through early May, though he's striking out at a 34.3% rate. He's consistently ranked as a top prospect in the Cardinals organization and among the top-100 across baseball.
Strengths
- + Elite power-speed combination (20 HRs, 50 SBs in 2025)
- + Top-100 prospect ranking across MLB
- + Top prospect in Cardinals organization
- + Strong arm (97 MPH in high school)
- + Hot start to 2026 AAA season
- + Centerpiece of best AAA team to start 2026
- + Confident, competitive mindset
- + Young age (23) with significant upside
- + 10 home runs already in early 2026 AAA season
Weaknesses
- - High strikeout rate (34.2-34.3% K rate)
- - Low batting average (.229-.233)
- - May not be ready for MLB this season
- - Learning curve expected when promoted
- - Inconsistent performance (golden sombrero mentioned)
- - Needs to significantly reduce strikeouts before MLB call-up
About
Joshua Baez is a right fielder for the St Louis Cardinals.
Player Overview
RF
St Louis Cardinals