Don’t look now, but Hurston Waldrep might finally be turning the corner at Triple-A — and the Atlanta Braves are watching closely.
After a rocky start to his 2025 campaign that raised more than a few eyebrows, the No. 2 prospect in the Braves’ system is starting to show signs of life, and if this trend continues, a return to the big leagues might not be far off.
From Trouble to Traction
Let’s rewind. Waldrep’s first six starts at Triple-A Gwinnett this season were brutal: 7.02 ERA, unable to get past the fifth inning in four of those outings, and looking every bit like a pitcher searching for answers. That’s not what the Braves expected from a guy who made his MLB debut last year — even if that debut came a bit prematurely.
But now? Three straight starts of real progress. His latest gem: six innings, two runs, nine strikeouts against the Louisville Bats. Over his last three outings, he’s posted a 2.79 ERA, going six full innings in back-to-back games — something he hadn’t managed at all during his earlier struggles.
The Stuff Has Never Been the Problem
Waldrep’s turnaround isn’t about a stuff issue — his arsenal has always been elite. His splitter, rated a 65 on the 20-to-80 scale, is a true plus pitch. It has nasty depth, late drop, and is consistently tough on hitters from both sides of the plate. His fastball, sitting in the 60-grade range, brings upper-90s velocity with life. And his slider, a solid 55, rounds out a three-pitch mix that has big-league upside written all over it.
The issue has been command and consistency. He’s walked too many, missed too many spots, and paid for it. But now, as he builds rhythm and works deeper into games, those weaknesses are looking more like growing pains than red flags.
What About the Big Leagues?
Waldrep got a taste of the majors last year, but it was just that- a taste. He was shelled for 13 earned runs in just seven innings in two outings. It was a rough debut, followed by a stint on the injured list and a rebound in Gwinnett that hinted at his long-term promise.
So far in 2025, he’s mostly been flying under the radar after getting optioned early in Spring Training following a one-inning, no-hit appearance. But if he keeps stringing together quality starts like this, that radar’s going to start pinging louder and louder.
With Atlanta’s rotation dealing with injury and inconsistency, there’s definitely a scenario where Waldrep earns another shot. If Spencer Strider takes time to round back into form and the Braves need another high-upside arm to bridge the gap, he could fit the bill.
Arrow Pointing Up For Braves Prospect
Waldrep’s season started with disappointment. His last three starts, however, suggest the 22-year-old is finding his rhythm, refining his command, and finally tapping into the potential that made him a first-round pick and a top-tier prospect. If the Braves believe he’s stabilizing, don’t be surprised to see him back in Atlanta before the All-Star break.
He’s not a finished product — far from it. But if he’s found a groove, Hurston Waldrep might soon be more than just a name in the farm system. He could be part of the solution at the big league level.
