Braves Hope Top Pitching Prospect Can Provide Some Rotation Stability

JR Ritchie: Braves Minor League Player of the Year

When the Braves drafted high schooler JR Ritchie 35th overall in the 2022 draft, the team looked to develop him. In his first professional action between Rookie ball and Single-A, Ritchie pitched to a 1.88 ERA in 14 1/3 innings. He managed to hold opponents to a .184 average while striking out 14 and only walking five. Unfortunately, in 2023, after only four starts, Ritchie tore his UCL and needed Tommy John surgery, which would end his season.

Making his return from surgery in 2024, Ritchie made 11 starts across 3 levels. At Low-A, he made six starts and pitched to a 1.95 ERA with a 1.021 WHIP. This was in 32 1/3 innings, where he struck out 40 batters while walking only 10. He then finished the year in High-A, making two starts at the level. In 10 innings, he pitched to a 3.60 ERA, allowing an opponent average of .256.

Starting in 2025 in High-A, Ritchie made seven starts, where he posted a 1.30 ERA and 0.792 WHIP. This success saw him move to Double-A, where he would make eight starts. In 38 2/3 innings, Ritchie posted a 3.49 ERA with 41 strikeouts. Once again, his success was rewarded as he finished the year in Triple-A, where he would make 11 starts. Across those starts, he pitched to a 3.02 ERA with a 1.09 ERA, holding batters to a .181 average against.

What Does the Future Hold for Ritchie?

With his arsenal headlined by a mid-90s fastball and sharp breaking slider, Ritchie has the basic stuff to succeed at most levels. However, his changeup will need some more work to become a legit third pitch in his arsenal for him to see continued success. Fortunately, command has not been an issue for the right-hander as he has a career 3.3 BB/9 and, most recently, 2.2 in his Triple-A starts. With this, and still being only 22, there is a lot of room for development, which could have the Braves delay his call-up. However, if the Braves end up in a situation like in 2025, where they need pitching, Ritchie could fill in. The most likely scenario is a late call-up in 2026 or a spot on the 2027 Opening Day roster for the Braves’ top prospect.