The Braves concluded the first half of the season on a high note with a series win over the San Diego Padres as they head into the All-Star break. While fans are buzzing about potential trade deadline moves, the organization’s primary focus has shifted to the MLB Draft. Atlanta has emerged from the first round with a highly touted pitcher, described by Keith Law of The Athletic as the best high school pitcher selected.
“I think this is the latest we’ve ever had our first high school pitcher selected, but Atlanta got the best one of the class. Cam Caminiti — a cousin of the late Ken Caminiti — is a super-athletic lefty who sits mid-90s with good feel for a changeup and saw his breaking ball improve over the year from arguably a grade-35 pitch before the season to one scouts were saying was above-average by the end,” said Law.
This marks the fifth consecutive year that the Braves have selected a pitcher with their first-round pick. The last position player they drafted in the first round was Shea Langeliers. This consistent strategy underscores the importance of pitching depth in a league where quality arms are highly valued.
So, what can the Braves expect from Cam Caminiti, the cousin of the late Padres star Ken Caminiti? According to Law, he’s a two-way player with the best combination of present ability and future projection in this draft class. His athleticism stands out, and he has demonstrated impressive pitching skills.
Law notes, “He’s up to 97 mph with a curveball that’s improved from a grade-35 early in the spring to a 50 or 55 now, along with an easy plus changeup that has been a 70 in some outings.”
The Braves have been focusing on stockpiling pitching talent in recent seasons, which is evident in their prospect rankings. Apart from Drake Baldwin and Nacho Alvarez, who are position players, the top prospects are predominantly pitchers. The expectation is that this year’s first-round pick, Cam Caminiti, will join these ranks and make an impact sooner rather than later.
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