PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks have steadily built one of MLB’s strongest young position-player cores, landing in the top 10 of Yahoo Sports’ latest 26-and-under power rankings.
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Arizona placed No. 8 with a total score of 16 out of 30 — climbing from No. 12 a year ago. The rankings evaluate every player in the organization entering this season at age 26 or younger, with an emphasis on both youth and major-league production.
The Diamondbacks earned a perfect 10 out of 10 for their young MLB hitters. Outfielder Corbin Carroll headlines the group, having established himself as a franchise centerpiece. Shortstop Geraldo Perdomo and catcher Gabriel Moreno provide stability, while Alek Thomas solidifies center field with his defense and continued offensive growth.
Aug 10, 2025; Phoenix, Ariz., U.S.; Arizona Diamondbacks infielder Geraldo Perdomo (2) throws a ball as a broken bat rolls towards his against the Colorado Rockies at Chase Field on Aug. 10, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The other categories, however, highlight a clear imbalance between the lineup and the pitching staff.
The Diamondbacks received just 2 out of 10 for young MLB pitchers. Right-hander Justin Martinez and left-handers Brandyn Garcia and Blake Walston are among the projected contributors this season, but the club lacks a proven top-of-the-rotation presence.
At the prospect level, Arizona earned a 3 out of 5 for prospect hitters — including Ryan Waldschmidt, Kristian Robinson, Tommy Troy and LuJames Groover — and just 1 out of 5 for prospect pitchers. While the organization has built enviable depth among its position players, pitching remains the area where it struggles most.
Jun 3, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno (14) hits a single against the Atlanta Braves in the ninth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
The imbalance creates a clear organizational challenge. Several arms, such as Yilber Diaz and left-hander Yu-Min Lin, offer developmental upside, but few project as immediate frontline contributors.
At the same time, the rankings reflect a broader trend in the desert: The Diamondbacks have integrated their young talent into the major leagues at an accelerated rate. Many of their core fielders and hitters enter 2026 as multiyear veterans despite still being 26 or younger.
Jul 10, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks center fielder Alek Thomas (5) hits a double during the third inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images
That mix of youth and growing experience has become part of the club’s identity, especially as it competes in a packed National League West division.
Ultimately, the rankings provide a snapshot of where the organization stands — strong, productive and young in its lineup, but still searching for pitching depth to balance its foundation.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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