The 2025 MLB Draft could be a turning point for teams like the Atlanta Braves as they look to build for the long haul. Baseball America’s fourth mock draft has stirred up some buzz, projecting the Braves to snag North Carolina prep star Josh Hammond with the 22nd overall pick.
Hammond is a versatile prospect who shines as both a shortstop and a right-handed pitcher. That lines up with Atlanta’s recent focus on athletic, multi-talented players. Braves fans might want to start paying attention to Hammond—this pick could end up making a real impact.
Who Is Josh Hammond?
If you haven’t heard of Josh Hammond yet, give it time. The North Carolina phenom has been turning heads in the scouting world with his mix of raw power and improving hitting skills.
He’s the kind of modern athlete teams love—someone who can deliver both at the plate and in the field, and even on the mound. At 6’3” with a strong frame, Hammond’s tools have caught the eyes of several MLB organizations.
Some teams see him as a future pitcher because of his live arm. But the Braves seem to value his bat more, picturing him as a future infield anchor—maybe even a successor to Austin Riley at third base.
Power and Projection: Why Hammond Stood Out
Hammond fits perfectly with Atlanta’s love for powerful hitters who can change a game. He’s already seen as a legit first-round talent thanks to his hitting.
Scouts can’t stop talking about his *plus power*, which is gold in today’s home-run-focused MLB. His hit tool is catching up with his power, so there’s a real chance he’ll become a threat for both average and strength at the plate. That’s a combo you just don’t see every day.
On defense, Hammond plays shortstop now but could shift to third base. His strong arm and athleticism would play well there, making him a valuable and flexible infielder.
Why the Braves Were Drawn to Hammond’s Skill Set
The Braves have a habit of targeting athletic, multi-skilled players in recent drafts. Hammond checks every box: athleticism, defensive flexibility, and offensive upside.
Baseball America noted that Hammond wants to play every day, not just pitch. That’s a big deal for Atlanta, especially since his offensive profile is already drawing comparisons to Austin Riley. No wonder the Braves are reportedly “high” on him.
How Hammond Compares to Other Prospects
In this mock draft, the Braves passed on Georgia prep standout Daniel Pierce, along with Kruz Schoolcraft, Riley Quick, and Luke Stevenson. Top infielders like Marek Houston, Wehiwa Aloy, Steele Hall, and Kayson Cunningham were already off the board by pick #22, so Hammond stood out for his overall potential.
The Austin Riley comparison is hard to ignore. Both offer big offensive upside, mixing power with production. Riley came in as a more polished hitter, but Hammond is still developing—and that’s kind of exciting.
If the Braves can help him grow like they did with Riley, Hammond could become a key part of their lineup. There’s a lot to like about that possibility.
The Bigger Picture for the Braves’ Draft Strategy
The 2025 draft gives the Braves a shot to add quality players who can help at the Major League level soon. Picking Josh Hammond would show their commitment to power and versatility while also shoring up the infield for the future.
As the draft gets closer, expect the Braves to keep chasing players who fit their style. Hammond’s mix of skills and upside makes him a name to watch. He’ll need to develop, like any high school prospect, but his ceiling is tough to ignore.
Final Thoughts
Josh Hammond stands out as another example of how the Atlanta Braves keep focusing on long-term success. They do this by building their roster with care and a bit of cunning.
Will Hammond become a star third baseman, or will he stick at shortstop? Nobody really knows yet. The Braves reportedly like his elite power, his improving contact skills, and how he can play multiple positions.
Those Austin Riley comparisons? They just make everything more interesting. Atlanta fans can’t help but wonder what the team is cooking up for the future.
The 2025 MLB Draft is coming up fast. Keep an eye out for Hammond’s name—it might just pop up and surprise everyone.
Here is the source article for this story: New Baseball America Mock Draft has Braves taking SS Josh Hammond
Experience Baseball History in Person
Want to walk the same grounds where baseball legends made history? Find accommodations near iconic ballparks across America and create your own baseball pilgrimage.
Check availability at hotels near: Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium
Plan your ballpark visit: Get MLB Ballpark Tickets and find accommodations nearby.
- Biographies
- Stadium Guides
- Current Baseball Players
- Current Players by Team
- Players that Retired in the 2020s
- Players that Retired in the 2010s
- Players that Retired in the 2000s
- Players that Retired in the 1990s
- Players that Retired in the 1980s
- Players that Retired in the 1970s
- Players that Retired in the 1960s
- Players that Retired in the 1950s
- Players that Retired in the 1940s
- Players that Retired in the 1930s