MLB podcast highlights why SF Giants power-hitting outfielder might be the steal of the 2024 draft

Power-hitting SF Giants prospect Dakota Jordan has emerged as an absolute steal from the 2024 MLB draft. Recently, The Call Up podcast from Just Baseball Media highlighted Jordan in their episode titled "2024 Draft Class Heat Sheet." The toolsy outfielder is currently the fifth-ranked prospect in an improving Giants' system. He could potentially be on the way to Top 100 status if he continues this level of production.

MLB podcast highlights why SF Giants power-hitting outfielder might be the steal of the 2024 draft

Jordan was one of the riskier picks in the first few rounds due to his significant whiff issues. Podcast host and founder of Just Baseball, Aram Leighton highlights what has stood out so far:

"He's definitely still whiffing a little bit, he's still chasing. With how bad the swing-and-miss was in college, it was hard to see the issue being even worse in pro ball, and as a matter of a fact, it's actually gotten better. His contact rates are better as a pro now than they were in college This is a huge first step that I didn't expect to see this quickly, even in Low-A."

Aram Leighton

With the slight impovement, Jordan has been turning heads all season with his production. Through 80 games, he's hitting .302/.373/.470 with 10 long balls and 27 stolen bags. Those numbers are good for a 130 wRC+ and an OPS that sits right at .844. Co-host of the show, Elijah Evans, pointed out that during this stretch, the Giants have seen "speed, power, and a little bit of everything from him."

That "little bit of everything" also includes his improved defense in center field. In 76 games out there, Jordan has posted a .983 fielding percentage. Leighton added "He wasn't even the best defender in center field, but he's developed a lot there." Whether these adjustments stem from his raw athleticism or a tweak made by the Giants' development, it's clear that Jordan is trending in the right direction.

While it'll be a few years until Jordan has the opportunity to play in San Francisco, the fourth-rounder is showing plenty of promise. High-whiff sluggers like Jordan will usually take more time than your average college bat, but the Giants knew he'd be a longer-term project when they drafted him. With this level of production, Jordan could see a promotion to high-A soon, giving him another test with slightly tougher and more mature competition.

With an organization that has lacked speed and athleticism over the past couple of years, Jordan has the tools to be one of the most exciting prospects in years. Only time will tell if the toolsy outfielder can develop into a real piece for the future of the San Francisco Giants.