Are the Atlanta Braves the most improved farm system in 2026? There is certainly an argument to be made for that, and the emergence of outfielder Eric Hartman has a lot to do with it. The Braves have seen several prospects raise their stock this year, but none more than Hartman.
The former 20th-round pick has showcased a speed/power combination that minor league baseball hasn't seen since Andruw Jones. Putting together a 25-HR, 50-SB season tells you everything you need to know about Hartman's 2026, and because of these impressive numbers, Hartman landed on MLB Pipeline's 2026 All-Breakout Prospect Team.
With his stolen base tonight, Eric Hartman becomes the first MiLB player since Andruw Jones ('95, Macon Braves) to Record a 25-HR, 50-SB Season.
— Columbus Clingstones (@GoClingstones) August 30, 2026
We Are All Witness. pic.twitter.com/0AY9F7CCIk
Eric Hartman lands on MLB Pipeline's 2026 breakout prospects list
Playing your way to Double-A at age 20 is evidence enough that what Eric Hartman is doing is very special. Hartman entered the year in the bottom half of Atlanta's top 30 prospect list. By the time summer arrived, there was no one more deserving of the top prospect moniker in the organization.
Today, Hartman ranks 42nd on MLB Pipeline's Top 100 prospect list, and his development is showing no signs of slowing down aside from a bit of a speed bump after getting promoted to Columbus. Hartman burst onto the national scene this year, and he's worked himself into a spot where he's just one phone call away from being in the big leagues.
Michael Harris II was the surprise Double-A straight to Major League promotion a few years ago; could Hartman be that guy in 2027? Clearly, we've reached a point where that isn't out of the question. It's nice to see Hartman recognized for his excellent work in 2026, and as the minor league season wraps up, it's important to appreciate how historic Hartman was this year.
Hartman still has a couple of weeks to add to his impressive season totals, but a .261/.358/.481 slash line in 120 games is a great building block as he enters a pivotal offseason. It would not be a shock if the next national story about Hartman is regarding his Major League roster possibilities once next spring rolls around.
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