Much of the rebound the Houston Astros are hoping to see from their maligned farm system hinges on top prospect Walker Janek. The 23-year-old was Houston's first round pick in 2024, delighting the team's brass as they were able to snag the draft's top-ranked catcher all the way down at the 28th pick.
Regarded as a superb defender, the hope was that Janek could develop a balanced offensive profile and be a two-way force that is rarely seen from behind the plate. His initial foray into professional ball didn't go as planned, however, with a .