Drew was an undrafted free agent signed in 2023 after the MLB Draft.
What were the expectations?
Drew showed some promise in 2024, hitting .289/.394/.414 in 110 games in Augusta and Rome. Because of this, and his good production in college, there were some expectations for Drew due to his ability to switch from hit to hit for decent power. Due to this strong performance, Drew was named the starting first baseman for the Columbus Clingstones in 2025 with some promise.
While expectations might have been a bit higher, Drew was solid in 2025, hitting .251/.326/.341 in 112 games. His running pace did drop slightly, but still significantly, by 10%. However, the strikeout rate rose all the way to 26% after sitting at 17% for most of last year. As a result, his OBP dropped to .326 and his wRC+ was just 101, a big drop from 144 the year before.
Health. Drew played 112 games after playing 110 games in 2024. Although the walk rate dropped, it was still a very respectable 10%. He hit a respectable .256 batting average as a LHB, but walked much more as a lefty, bringing his OBP on that side of the plate to .352.
The increase in strikeouts, which increased his strikeout rate from 17% to 26%, was a sign — especially against the higher ceiling weapons in Double-A. While running at a high rate from right field, he struggled at the plate, hitting .230/.362/.299.
Outlook for 2026
While hitters are expected to struggle in their Double-A debut, it was concerning that his strikeout rate rose so much. That said, first base is a weak position for the Braves, and they should just hold on to him because of his ability to switch and his power potential. Drew will enter the season at age 25, so it will be a big year as he tries to make his way to the majors.
#Atlanta #Braves #Prospect #Reviews #Drew #Compton