Baseball America released its fourth 2025 MLB Draft mock, featuring the Braves at #22. The mock predicts they will choose Josh Hammond, a prep SS/RHP from North Carolina, known for his athletic two-way potential. While some view him primarily as a pitcher, his strong batting skills, including plus power, make him an enticing choice. Defensive uncertainties exist regarding his position, as he may need to transition to third base. With several top shortstop prospects already taken, Hammond fits a critical need for the Braves.
It's hard to not tie Gage Wood to the Braves... there's thought in the industry that the Braves are one of the higher teams on the powerful North Carolina shortstop.
Hammond is an interesting player. Similar to Austin Riley a lot of teams prefer him as a pitcher, but in this case is being drafted as a bat.
The real draw for Hammond comes with the bat however. He's got plus power and can use it to all fields, and the hit tool has made some progress.
Since shortstop is such a deep class and a big need for the Braves, it is important to note that Marek Houston, Wehiwa Aloy, and Steele Hall were long gone.
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