Scouting grades 20–80
Hitting60Hit
50Power
50Run
50Field
60Arm
Pitching55Fastball
50Slider
55Changeup
50Control
A guy who may be a first-round talent both at the plate and off the mound, Grindlinger is the top 2-way prospect in the class at this point in time. There's multiple avenues to where he could provide value in the future.
Grindlinger can really, really hit. It’s a smooth, simple left-handed stroke that has shown few holes to this point. He ran elite contact rates both inside and outside the zone throughout the 2025 summer circuit. His approach impresses as well: takes, very little chase, and a willingness to take what he’s given at the plate. Grindlinger is an unbelievably mature hitter for his age. Grindlinger can at times pummel the ball into the ground given a flatter swing path. It's hurt his ability to slug so far throughout his amateur career, though that will likely improve as Grindlinger continues to grow into his frame as will the raw power.
Most project Grindlinger to end up at a corner outfield spot. He's an above average runner now who may eventually slow into the average range with plus arm strength, though he may get a chance to test out center field in pro ball.
Grindlinger also has electric arm talent on the bump, with a fastball that has touched 97 mph in bullpen settings and 96 mph in games. The pitch shows solid vertical carry with tail away from right-handed hitters from a three-quarter slot. Grindlinger has a strong track record of throwing strikes and moves well down the mound, utilizing a high leg kick. There’s already considerable arm speed, and his lean, athletic 6-foot-3 frame looks like it could still add significant mass. It’s easy to see a world where Grindlinger is bumping the upper 90s in due time.
Both of his secondaries flash promise as well. Grindlinger shows exceptional feel for a sweeping low-80s slider that features promising shape. He’ll also kill spin well on a changeup with depth that he tunnels effectively to right-handed hitters. At the end of the day, it’s a starter’s package, with multiple pitches that could end up above-average or better.
Grindlinger will be just 17.2 years old on draft day, making him one of the younger draft-eligible prospects in recent years. It's a split camp on whether Grindlinger will hit or pitch at the next level.
