Braves prospect Conor Essenburg has all the ingredients to be their next superstar

Bennett Weaver of House That Hank Built argues Atlanta Braves outfield prospect Conor Essenburg possesses the tools to become the organization's next superstar. Drafted in the fifth round in 2025 as a two-way option, Essenburg chose to focus exclusively on hitting and playing outfield. Despite early injury struggles in Augusta, he finished 2026 hitting .265 with 17 home runs, 11 stolen bases, and a .416 on-base percentage.

Following an August promotion to Rome, Essenburg reduced his strikeout rate to 23.5% while maintaining a 20.6% walk rate. Weaver highlights that Baseball America named him the best power hitter and best outfield arm in Atlanta's farm system, projecting him for a significant national breakout in 2027.