Weekly Risers
By Morgan Davis ·
Power Surge Continues for Luke Hill
Luke Hill's breakout campaign reached new heights this week, as the Guardians infielder exploded for four home runs across five games at High-A Lake County. Hill went 9-for-16 with a ridiculous 2.182 OPS, capping off a stretch that saw him drive in 11 runs while drawing six walks against just five strikeouts. The 22-year-old's recent power spike validates the over-slot bonus Cleveland paid him as a fourth-round pick in 2025, with his advanced approach and zone control now unlocking the damage potential scouts projected.
Hill's week included a memorable two-homer performance on May 13, followed by a sharp two-RBI double two days later that showcased his growing confidence at the plate. What stands out beyond the raw numbers is the selectivity—his 27.3% walk rate for the week demonstrates the plate discipline that gives him the foundation to punish mistakes. With nine home runs in 28 games this season, Hill is forcing evaluations of his power ceiling while maintaining the versatile defensive profile that initially attracted Cleveland.
Quick Hits
Gavin Conticello bounced back from recent struggles with a productive week at Double-A Amarillo, going 9-for-20 with three home runs and striking out just once in 22 plate appearances. The power tool that earned him Texas League Player of the Week honors earlier this month remains his carrying skill.
Brendan Beck dominated in his Triple-A return, throwing 5.2 shutout innings with nine strikeouts and just one hit allowed for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 27-year-old's elite command was on full display with a 9:1 strikeout-to-walk ratio, continuing his impressive comeback from elbow injuries.
Karson Milbrandt delivered a pristine six-inning shutout at Double-A Pensacola, allowing three hits while striking out 11 without issuing a walk. The Marlins right-hander's five-pitch mix continues to develop, with his slider-cutter combination proving effective against opposite-handed hitters.
Émilien Pitre showcased his disciplined approach with eight walks in five games for High-A Bowling Green, reaching base in 65.4% of his plate appearances. The Canadian infielder's plus speed was evident with his efficient base-stealing, though his power limitations remain apparent.
Kane Kepley continued his contact-heavy approach for High-A South Bend, reaching base safely in 69.2% of plate appearances despite managing zero home runs. His elite center field defense and base-stealing ability remain his primary tools as the Cubs develop his offensive consistency.
Yohandy Morales extended his hot streak at Triple-A Rochester with two more home runs and an .842 slugging percentage. The 24-year-old's raw power has translated beautifully to Triple-A, with reports suggesting a potential major league call-up could be forthcoming given his offensive dominance.
Matt Wilkinson bounced back from recent struggles with a clean five-inning shutout for Double-A Richmond, allowing two hits and striking out six without a walk. The left-hander's deceptive delivery and slider combination remain effective weapons against age-appropriate competition.
Zach Thornton turned in six shutout innings at Triple-A Syracuse, limiting opponents to three hits while striking out nine and walking just one. The Mets southpaw's command-driven approach continues to generate results despite below-average velocity.
Garrett Baumann posted his longest outing of the season with seven shutout innings at Double-A Mississippi, striking out 11 while walking just one. The 21-year-old's imposing 6-foot-8 frame and mid-90s fastball remain intriguing despite secondary pitch development needs.