As we inch closer to the 2026 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 looking at the shortstop position.
Previous Top Three:
1. Xavier Neyens
Neyens was selected by the Astros in the first round of the 2025 MLB Draft and signed for $4.12 million, the organization’s largest bonus since Alex Bregman received $5.9 million in 2015. A left-handed hitter out of Mount Vernon High School in Washington, Neyens boasts some of the most impressive raw power in the 2025 draft class. While he has a strong arm and can play some defense, it’s his powerful bat and advanced hitting ability that made him a top pick. Standing 6’4″ and weighing 210 pounds, Neyens projects as a formidable middle-of-the-order presence. He was the first high school position played selected by the Astros in the first round since Tucker in 2015. Defensively, he has solid range and quickness with a big time arm. Should shortstop not workout, he may find himself at third base.
2. Caden Powell
Powell was selected by the Astros in the 6th round of the 2024 draft and signed overslot for $422,500. The 21-year-old is listed at 6’3″ and 200 lbs with room to grow. He started his college career at Oklahoma but transferred to Seminole State College where he was named the D-1 junior college player of the year after hitting .502 with 32 HR, 104 RBI and a slugging percentage over 1.000. Powell started of the year great in Single-A posting an OPS over .800 while showing off power and speed. He missed some time with an injury and had some struggles when coming back, but his power and upside with the bat is legit. He has an average arm and range, per reports, which could force him to third base down the line.
3. Nick Monistere
Monistere was selected by the Astros in the fourth round of the 2025 MLB Draft out of Southern Mississippi. He broke out during his junior season, batting .323 and leading the Sun Belt Conference with 21 home runs over 63 games. Primarily a second baseman in college, Monistere brings defensive versatility, with the ability to handle multiple positions around the field including shortstop. He also offers legitimate power at the plate, making him an intriguing offensive prospect with impact potential. He had some struggles following the draft but it was limited experience in Fayetteville.
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