Atlanta Braves Prospect Report: Augusta Greenjackets Edition

We know how the Atlanta Braves are doing, but how are things going down on the farm? How about we take a look at some of the Braves minor leaguers, starting with those down in Augusta!

Prospect rankings based on MLB Pipeline.

Owen Murphy

Currently ranked number 2 in the Braves system, Owen Murphy is putting together numbers to justify that high ranking. The first-round pick in 2022 now has a 2.82 ERA, 2.95 FIP, and 3.53 xFIP across 6 starts (22.1 IP) for the Greenjackets.

Murphy is currently striking out 30.2% of batters and walking 7.3%. There is the belief that Murphy could develop a solid four-pitch mix as he develops but mostly relies on his fastball/breaking ball combo as of now.

His last start on the 19th was the first time he threw 5 innings this year, allowing just 1 run (HR) on just 3 hits. He struck out 5 and walked no one. The Braves can be patient with Murphy, and we will probably see him stay in Augusta for most of 2022, although Rome is not out of the question if he continues to perform.

With the last name being Murphy, he is bound for success in Atlanta, right?

J.R. Ritchie

The Braves' third-ranked prospect also came to the organization in last year's first round. J.R. Ritchie's ERA sits at 5.40 through 4 starts (13.1 IP), which is never a welcome site. However, the peripherals sit at a 0.82 FIP and 1.56 xFIP, suggesting it has been some bad luck over the small sample.

Minor league defenses give and minor league defenses will take I suppose.

On an impressive note, Ritchie has struck out 25 of 53 batters (47.2%) and walked just 3 (5.7%). He has a solid fastball but the breaking pitches are considered advanced for his age. There is potential to develop into something special if things go well for Ritchie.

Now for the bad news, he has not pitched since May 6th due to injury.

Elbows are always concerning. Once we know more, we will be sure to update you here on our site. Hopefully, it is nothing significant.