3 Braves Top Prospects Who Could See Action in Shortened 2020 Season

The Atlanta Braves were preparing to enter the 2020 season as a real contender in the National League. The team remains talented, but all MLB squads may have to get creative during a shortened season. One thing the Braves will have to do is get some top prospects meaningful time in the bigs if the alternative is not having them play in a competitive game until 2021. Three players stand out as those who should receive major league action in a 2020 season.

3. Ian Anderson

Atlanta Braves prospect Ian Anderson. / Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Ian Anderson is a starting pitcher who was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2016 MLB Draft by the Braves and is also ranked third in the organization. He made 26 starts last season between Double-A and Triple-A and finished the year with a combined 3.38 ERA. He has logged over 100 innings each of the past two years and being such a top prospect means his continued development is key. Anderson is only 22 years old, but he has had a steady rise up through the minors and needs to pitch in 2020.

2. Drew Waters

Atlanta Braves prospect Drew Waters. / Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Drew Waters is a 21-year-old outfielder who is the second-ranked prospect in the organization. He finished 2019 in Triple-A and slashed an impressive .309/.360/.459 for the entire year. Waters is an interesting case because while he is ranked so high, another outfielder is ahead of him in the top spot. Yet expanded rosters allows the Braves to bring up both players and Waters can get some initial experience before likely opening up 2021 back in the minors.

1. Cristian Pache

Atlanta Braves prospect Cristian Pache. / Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Cristian Pache is the top prospect in Atlanta's system. The 2015 international signee finished last season in Triple-A and hit a combined .277/.340/.462 with 36 doubles. Pache is only 21 years old and was already a likely call-up in 2020. Having a shortened season means the Braves should absolutely give him playing time in center field. Ender Inciarte is holding down the spot for now, but Pache is the future at the position. The only thing holding him back would be the Braves not wanting to use too much service time in a unique 2020 season.