Max Wagner

One of the most prominent college risers during the 2022 season, Wagner began the year as a defensive replacement for Clemson, but quickly worked his way into the starting lineup and hit .370/.496/.852 with 27 home runs and 15 doubles en route to being named the ACC player of the year. Wagner struggled offensively in 2021 (.214/.305/.345), with plenty of swing and miss, but he improved his approach—11 BB% to 17 BB%—and a mechanical tweak seemingly unlocked his plus raw power. He gets started with a stance that’s more upright and open than it was in 2021 and has done a better job keeping his hands quiet throughout his load, with what looks like a slightly steeper bat path that has helped him get the ball in the air more frequently. He has made more contact this spring, particularly against secondaries, and has hammered 93-plus mph fastballs. A 6-foot, 200-pound third baseman, Wagner should be able to stick at the position with solid arm strength and hands, but he doesn’t jump off the diamond in terms of tools. Without much track record prior to 2022, Wagner is bound to be a polarizing prospect, but for those who buy into his hitting ability and power, he has a chance to be selected among the first two rounds.