As we inch closer to the 2025 season, I am going to give top three prospects at each position. This will be based on where they currently play and also where they may end up. This will culminate with my newly updated top 30 prospects before the season starts. This week, we are starting with the catcher position.
1. Walker Janek
Janek was seen as the best defensive catcher in the draft, showing up a plus arm and a quick release. But he also made huge strides with the bat during college too. The 21-year-old has above average bat speed and the ability to produce 20+ homers at the major league level. He hit .364 with 17 homers, 58 runs batted in and 13 stolen bases in 58 games in 2024 for the Bearkats. His raw power has improved and he has chance to be a gold glove type at catcher while hitting for average and power. Janek struggled out of the gate offensively, though the Astros were aggressive with him assigning him to High-A following the draft. He threw out 31% of base stealers in 2024.
2. Jancel Villarroel
Villarroel was signed by the Astros in August of 2022 out of Venezuela. While he is smaller in stature, listed at 5’8″ and 176 lbs, he makes up for it with his ability. The catcher has elite bat to ball skills and a good understanding of the strike zone. Before going stateside in 2024, he had 37 BB/37 SO in 57 games in the DSL. He started the 2024 season in the FCL and got a quick promotion to Single-A posting a .721 OPS overall. He held his own in full season ball, and did so as a teenager. He also threw out 18% of base stealers.
3. John Garcia
Garcia, the Astros 19th round pick in 2022, had a breakout 2024 season establishing himself as a legit prospect. The 23-year-old had a hit .293 with 21 doubles, 10 home runs, 9 stolen bases and a .852 OPS in 77 games in High-A. This level of offense at the catcher position is big. He also threw out 20% of base stealers in High-A. He should be in Double-A in 2025, which will be a good challenge for Garcia and an opportunity to hit some higher level pitching.
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