Braves Prospect Weekly: Lodise's Power Play, Bagwell's Dominance
By JT Murphy ·
Lodise Lights It Up
Alex Lodise (A+, SS, Rank: 12) has continued his power surge, adding two more home runs to his season tally last week. Over 27 plate appearances, he collected 7 hits, including a pair of doubles, driving in four runs. Lodise has shown his capabilities at High-A Rome, with a combined .260/.351/.483 line and 23 homers across two levels this season. The big question lingers around his swing-and-miss issues, with 118 strikeouts on the season. However, his power and athleticism keep him on the radar as a potential infield mainstay if plate discipline improves.
This recent form aligns with his projection as a power-first infielder. As he adjusts to the professional setting, his ability to translate raw power into consistent offensive production will be crucial. A transition to third base might be on the horizon, meeting defensive expectations while masking potential handling shortcomings.
Bagwell's Mastery Continues
Ethan Bagwell (A+, RHP, Rank: 19) was stellar on the mound again, showcasing why he's held in high regard within the Braves organization. In his latest outing at High-A Rome, Bagwell went seven innings, allowing just three hits and one earned run while striking out six. Holding an ERA of 2.53 over 103.1 innings this year, Bagwell possesses a fastball-slider combo that's been effective all season.
The young right-hander’s solid command and strikeout ability suggest he might exceed his projected role as a No. 5 starter. If his changeup gains consistency, Bagwell could quickly climb the prospect rankings. His performances reflect a possible bullpen role or, optimally, advancing as a rotation regular.
Quick Hits
Owen Carey (AA, OF, Rank: 11) · notched two home runs and drove in six runs over the week. Carey is currently slashing .263/.344/.467 across three levels this season.
Carter Beck (A, OF, Rank: 32) · posted a .429 average with 9 hits in 24 at-bats last week. His season began brightly, but power remains untapped with zero home runs so far.
Dixon Williams (A+, 2B, Rank: 31) · provided some pop with a homer in six hits over 26 plate appearances, continuing his season-long struggle to lift his .217 batting average.
Brett Sears (AA, RHP, Rank: 42) · excelled with 6.2 strong innings of two-hit, one-run ball, enhancing his progress with a 3.19 ERA over 90.33 innings this season.
Garrett Baumann (AA, RHP, Rank: 14) · delivered five innings of one-hit, scoreless pitching, fanning nine, indicating potential rebound after struggles in AAA.
Landon Beidelschies (A, LHP, Rank: 28) · pitched five shutout innings with five strikeouts, maintaining signs of ERA reduction with a 6.23 season mark.
Owen Murphy (AAA, RHP, Rank: 3) · emerged strong, allowing no earned runs over 4.2 innings with four strikeouts. He walked three and threw 50-of-86 pitches for strikes.