Atlanta Braves' first baseman Matt Olson has spotlighted right-hander Hurston Waldrep as a breakout candidate for the upcoming MLB season. Drafted in the first round of the 2023 MLB Draft, Waldrep experienced a rocky start in the majors with a 16.71 ERA after two tough outings. However, he showed resilience in Triple-A, finishing the season with a much-improved 3.38 ERA. His final six starts in Triple-A were particularly impressive, showcasing his potential to make an impact in the majors this year.

Now 22, Waldrep's journey reflects significant growth after facing early challenges. As he heads into Spring Training, he aims to secure a spot in the Braves' starting rotation. Given his promising performance in the minors, there's optimism about his readiness for the demands of the big leagues.