Age: 24
Level: Triple-A
Position: Starting Pitcher
Bats/Throws: Right/Right
Height/Weight: 6’4″/220
Acquired: 2022 Draft, First Round
Current BSB Ranking: 17
Previous BSB Ranking: 16
Pic Credit: Hartford Yard Goats
Player Summary
Brief Summary
2022 first-round pick Gabriel Hughes has had a winding Minor League journey. After posting a 6.21 ERA in 2023 despite a promising 3.70 xFIP, he underwent Tommy John surgery that sidelined him for all of 2024. Returning in 2025, Hughes logged 105.1 innings with a 4.19 ERA and earned a spot on the 40-man roster. His velocity dipped after surgery but has rebounded this spring, and a new sweeper could expand his arsenal as he pushes toward a back-end starter role.
More detailed breakdown
A 2022 first-rounder, Gabriel Hughes, has had an interesting Minor League campaign. His first full season in 2023 resulted in a 6.21 ERA, however with a strong ability to strike batters out and limit walks, he posted a 3.70 xFIP, which indicates there was misfortune in his in-game outcomes. Unfortunately, at the end of 2023, he underwent Tommy John Surgery, which sat him out all of 2024. Last season in 2025 was his first year back, and in 105.1 innings pitched, the right-hander posted a 4.19 ERA. This offseason, he was added to the 40-man roster.
Early in Hughes’ career he was praised for his strong feel of command and good velocity; which is a recipe for success. However, after Tommy John surgery he saw his velocity go down considerably (his fastball averaged 91 MPH) which hurt his fast-track to Major League Baseball. This Spring Training his fastball is about two ticks faster, which is encouraging after such a considerable velocity dip after surgery. This spring he has also been toying with a new sweeper, which would give the right-hander six different pitches with unique movement. If he can maintain his 93 MPH fastball and consistently hit spots he has the upside of a back-end starting pitcher. 2026 will be a telling year for his future outlook. Written by Isaac Stevens.
Player Links
MLB.com player page | Fangraphs | Baseball Savant | Baseball Reference
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