Astros' rising stars showcase electrifying talent and flashes of future brilliance, stealing bases and making diving plays in spring training.
Spring Training is in full swing, and the regular season is just around the corner. Young Astros are making their mark, showcasing talent, athleticism, and flashes of the future. Here’s a look at the prospects generating buzz this spring.
Walker Janek - Catcher
Walker Janek, 23, has emerged as a prospect to watch in the Astros system heading into 2026. He was selected in the first round, 28th overall, of the 2024 MLB Draft. Janek has stayed healthy throughout his pro career, with no major injuries slowing his climb. He was invited to Spring Training as a non-roster invitee and has appeared in four games so far, going 3-for-6 with a double, two RBIs, three walks, and four stolen bases. A strong start to 2026 could be a big boost for Janek and something to keep an eye on as the season approaches.
Brice Matthews - Shortstop
Matthews, 23 years old, has been making moves this spring. In the season opener against the Nationals, he made a spectacular diving catch to rob Abimelec Ortiz of a potential run. The play was a solid display of his athleticism and defensive instincts, another reminder of why he is one of Houston’s top young players. That is just one example of Matthews’ strong performance this spring. He continues to work hard and polish his game as camp progresses.
Xavier Neyens - Shortstop/Power Hitter
Neyens has been turning heads with the quality of his contact and the power in his swing. At just 19 years old, he was selected 21st overall in the first round of the 2025 MLB Draft and is the Astros’ top power-hitting prospect and No. 2 overall prospect in the system. He still has some work to do timing his bat perfectly, but at only 19, he is already generating buzz.
Ethan Frey - Rising Prospect to Watch
Ethan Frey is a bit more under the radar, but he is definitely a young prospect to watch. The 21-year-old had a standout college career at LSU and has continued to build on that momentum. He was selected in the third round of the 2025 MLB Draft by the Houston Astros. The 6’6” athlete caught the attention of scouts early in Spring Training thanks to his contact skills, plate discipline, power potential, and walk-to-strikeout ratio. Frey is a rising star with the potential to make a real impact on the Astros roster.
With the regular season approaching, these young Astros are making the most of their opportunities in camp, giving fans an early glimpse of the organization’s next wave of talent.