With that in mind, here are four Astros prospects who have exceeded their preseason rankings so far this year.
Cole Hertzler, RHP
Hertzler was drafted by the Astros in the 5th round of the 2024 MLB Draft out of Liberty University. Hertzler pitched limited innings in 2024 and 2025 due to injury but his limited on-field performance and his raw stuff still landed him on top 30 lists, though in the 20s. This season he’s off to a great start posting a 2.78 ERA while striking out 34 batters over 22.2 innings. He probably won’t be in High-A much longer at this pace.
Will Bush, C/1B
Bush, originally drafted back in 2023 in the 16th round, got off a ridiculous start to the 2026 season. Despite slowing down a bit, he is still posting some really good numbers. Through 27 games the 22-year-old has 4 home runs, 23 walks and a .814 OPS in Double-A. To start the season he was in the late teens to 20s but with his surge to start 2026, he will most likely bump up come the mid-season rankings.
Nehomar Ochoa, OF
Ochoa was drafted by the Astros in the 11th round of the 2023 draft and after a solid first season, he found himself on top 30 lists heading into the 2025 season. A freak car accident derailed the majority of his season and this was enough to knock him off the lists before the 2026 season. This year Ochoa has been great batting .326 with 4 home runs, 14 stolen bases and a .906 OPS over 26 games in Single-A.
Justin Thomas, OF
Thomas was drafted by the Astros in the 11th round of the 2025 draft. He got a slightly above slot bonus and is showing why this season. Despite not being on any top 30 lists to start the season, Thomas is performing well hitting .293 with 5 doubles, 3 home runs, 13 stolen bases and a .904 OPS, The numbers are solid but its also an impressive bump from college in 2025 to High-A in 2026. He should get some top 30 run soon.
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