Top Orioles Prospects with Best Chances to Be Farm’s Top Prospect in 2026
The Baltimore Orioles have made significant strides in rebuilding their farm system, and as the 2024 season progresses, the organization’s future is brimming with potential. While the major league team continues to build upon its success, a new generation of stars is emerging within the farm system. Several prospects are on the verge of making their mark, and it’s only a matter of time before they become household names.
Looking ahead to 2026, some of the most promising prospects in the Orioles’ system are poised to rise to the top and potentially become the future face of the franchise. Here’s a breakdown of the top Orioles prospects who could emerge as the organization’s best player by 2026.
1. Gunnar Henderson – The Future of the Infield
It’s no surprise that Gunnar Henderson is the top prospect in the Orioles’ system. As a highly touted shortstop and third baseman, Henderson has already begun to show glimpses of his potential at the major league level. However, with his combination of elite power, plate discipline, and defensive ability, Henderson is a strong contender to emerge as the Orioles’ top prospect in 2026.
Since being drafted by the Orioles in the second round of the 2019 MLB Draft, Henderson has been on an accelerated path to the majors. His ability to hit for both power and average, combined with his above-average defense, makes him a dynamic force in the lineup. Already an All-Star-caliber player, Henderson’s trajectory is one that could see him not only continue to improve but eventually develop into one of the premier infielders in the game.
By 2026, Henderson could easily be an established star for the Orioles, making him a strong contender for the farm’s top prospect.
2. Jackson Holliday – The Shortstop Sensation
Jackson Holliday, the son of former MLB star Matt Holliday, has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young prospects in all of baseball. Drafted first overall in the 2022 MLB Draft, Holliday has lived up to the hype, showcasing exceptional plate discipline, bat speed, and defensive versatility.
Holliday’s advanced approach at the plate has been one of his defining characteristics, as he consistently demonstrates an ability to take quality at-bats and make adjustments to opposing pitchers. As he continues to develop in the minor leagues, Holliday’s offensive upside is immense. His combination of power, contact skills, and speed gives him the potential to become a true five-tool player.
While he still has some development ahead of him, Holliday has the makings of a future All-Star shortstop, and by 2026, he could be the Orioles’ most promising prospect, potentially surpassing Henderson as the team’s future face.
3. Grayson Rodriguez – The Ace of the Future
On the pitching side, Grayson Rodriguez is by far the Orioles’ most promising arm. The 6’5” right-hander has dominated the minor leagues with a fastball that reaches the upper 90s, a devastating slider, and a developing changeup that gives him the ability to neutralize hitters from both sides of the plate.
Rodriguez made his MLB debut in 2023, and while his time at the major league level has been a learning experience, there’s no doubt about his potential. With his stuff and physical profile, Rodriguez has the makings of a future ace in the rotation. His high strikeout rates and ability to command all of his pitches make him one of the most promising young pitchers in the game.
By 2026, Rodriguez could be fully entrenched as one of the top starters in the American League, and given his impact on the mound, he could easily be the Orioles’ top prospect by that time.
4. Colton Cowser – The Complete Outfielder
Colton Cowser, a center fielder and one of the Orioles’ top draft picks in 2021, has quickly risen through the ranks and shown why he’s considered one of the top prospects in the system. With a smooth swing, advanced plate discipline, and impressive defense, Cowser has the potential to be a cornerstone piece for the Orioles.
Cowser’s approach at the plate is among the best in the minor leagues. He is patient, makes consistent contact, and has demonstrated the ability to hit for both average and power. His defense in center field is also a major strength, as he has the range and instincts to cover a lot of ground.
By 2026, Cowser could be one of the game’s top outfielders, and his all-around game could place him firmly in the conversation as the top Orioles prospect. With continued development, he has the potential to provide both offensive and defensive value for the Orioles in the near future.
5. Jordan Westburg – The Versatile Infielder
Jordan Westburg, another top Orioles prospect, has continued to impress with his offensive tools and defensive versatility. Capable of playing shortstop, second base, and third base, Westburg’s ability to contribute across the infield makes him an extremely valuable asset.
Offensively, Westburg has shown above-average power and the ability to drive the ball to all fields. His plate discipline has improved in recent seasons, and he has the potential to be a key contributor to the Orioles’ lineup in the future. With his ability to play multiple positions, Westburg provides the team with the flexibility to move him around the diamond as needed.
By 2026, Westburg’s versatility could make him a key member of the Orioles’ infield, and with continued development, he could be one of the organization’s top prospects.
6. Heston Kjerstad – The Power-Hitting Outfielder
Heston Kjerstad, another 2020 draft pick, has been on a steady rise through the Orioles’ system and has displayed some of the best raw power in the organization. As a left-handed hitter with significant pop, Kjerstad has the potential to be a force in the middle of the lineup.
After missing most of the 2021 and 2022 seasons due to health issues, Kjerstad has made up for lost time with a strong 2023 performance, where he displayed his ability to hit for both average and power. While his defense in the outfield is a work in progress, Kjerstad’s offensive upside remains his most appealing trait.
By 2026, Kjerstad could be a fixture in the Orioles’ lineup, providing significant power and run production from one of the corner outfield spots.
7. D.L. Hall – The Left-Handed Fireballer
D.L. Hall, a left-handed pitcher, has long been a highly regarded prospect in the Orioles’ system. Known for his electric stuff, Hall has a fastball that regularly hits the upper 90s and a devastating curveball that can leave hitters swinging at air.
While Hall has faced some inconsistency at times, his raw stuff is undeniable. He has the potential to develop into a frontline starter or a dominant late-inning reliever. As he refines his command and pitch sequencing, Hall’s future in Baltimore remains bright.
By 2026, Hall could be part of the Orioles’ pitching staff, and with continued development, he could emerge as one of the organization’s top prospects, whether as a starter or a closer.
A Bright Future for the Orioles
The Orioles’ farm system is brimming with talent, and the future looks incredibly bright for the organization. Whether it’s Gunnar Henderson continuing his rise to stardom, Jackson Holliday becoming the face of the franchise, or Grayson Rodriguez anchoring the pitching staff, the Orioles have a wealth of prospects who are poised to become key contributors at the major league level in the years to come.
By 2026, one or more of these players could emerge as the Orioles’ top prospect, and the team’s future looks incredibly promising as it continues to build on its success. With a deep pool of talent in the system, Orioles fans have much to look forward to as the next wave of stars prepares to make their impact.
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