From Undrafted to Top 10: The Rise of Giants Prospect Parks Harber
The San Francisco Giants have a potential future star on their hands, and his name is Parks Harber. Recently ranked as the No. 10 third base prospect for 2026 by MLB Pipeline, Harber’s journey to recognition is anything but typical. This isn’t a story of a highly touted draft pick; it’s a testament to perseverance and a knack for hitting at every level.
The Unlikely Beginning: Overlooked and Undrafted
Harber’s baseball story began with a surprising omission. Despite a stellar final season at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – a .1073 OPS, 20 home runs, and 63 RBI – his name wasn’t called during the 2024 MLB Draft. This often signals the end of the road for aspiring professional players. However, Harber signed with the New York Yankees as an undrafted free agent, proving that talent can often find a way.
Yankees to Giants: A Trade That Changed Everything
Harber quickly demonstrated his hitting prowess in the Yankees organization, rapidly progressing from Low-A ball. His ascent was briefly interrupted by an injury, which ultimately led to a pivotal moment in his career. He became a key piece in a five-player trade that sent hard-throwing reliever Camilo Doval to the Yankees, landing Harber with the Giants.
This trade proved to be a turning point. After joining the Eugene Emeralds, Harber exploded onto the scene, slashing .333/.454/.644 with seven home runs and 24 RBI in just 108 plate appearances. His .310 ISO (Isolated Power) was particularly impressive, showcasing his ability to hit for extra bases. This level of performance is rarely seen from players adjusting to a new organization.
Arizona Fall League Success and Rising Expectations
An injury sidelined Harber for nearly two months, but the Giants recognized his potential and invited him to the Arizona Fall League. He didn’t disappoint, posting a remarkable 1.196 OPS with three home runs and 15 RBI in 76 plate appearances. He led the league with 12 extra-base hits, solidifying his place on prospect lists.
MLB Pipeline’s Jonathan Mayo noted, “Harber wasn’t even on San Francisco’s Top 30 until October. But he opened eyes with a .970 OPS in A ball in 2025 and then led the Arizona Fall League with 12 extra-base hits to put himself on the radar.” This rapid ascent highlights the impact of consistent performance and the ability to capitalize on opportunities.
What’s Next for Parks Harber?
The expectation is that Harber will begin the 2026 season in Double-A. This level is often considered a crucial proving ground for Giants prospects. Success in the tougher hitting environment of Double-A will be a strong indicator of his future potential. The Giants have a history of developing strong hitters, and Harber appears to fit the mold.
Did you know? The Arizona Fall League is often used by teams to evaluate prospects after the regular season, providing a valuable opportunity for players to showcase their skills against top competition.
The Broader Trend: Undrafted Free Agents Finding Success
Harber’s story isn’t unique. Increasingly, undrafted free agents are making a significant impact in Major League Baseball. Teams are utilizing advanced analytics to identify overlooked talent, and players are finding new avenues to prove themselves. The traditional draft system isn’t always perfect, and these players represent a valuable source of potential.
Consider the case of Ryan Flaherty, who went undrafted in 2008 but went on to have a seven-year MLB career. Or, more recently, players like Kevin Pillar, who also started as an undrafted free agent and became a reliable major league outfielder. These examples demonstrate that a lack of draft selection doesn’t necessarily preclude a successful career.
The Importance of Development Systems
The Giants’ willingness to invest in Harber’s development, even after acquiring him in a trade, is a testament to their commitment to building a strong farm system. Modern player development goes beyond simply teaching fundamentals; it involves personalized training programs, data analysis, and a focus on mental skills. Teams that prioritize these areas are more likely to unearth hidden gems like Harber.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to players who excel in the Arizona Fall League. It’s a great indicator of future potential and often foreshadows breakouts in the following season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What position does Parks Harber play?
A: Parks Harber is a corner infield prospect, primarily playing third base.
Q: Why was Parks Harber undrafted?
A: Despite impressive college stats, Harber was overlooked in the 2024 MLB Draft, likely due to scouting evaluations and team needs at the time.
Q: What is Harber’s biggest strength?
A: His hitting ability. He consistently demonstrates a high batting average, on-base percentage, and power potential.
Q: What are the Giants’ plans for Harber?
A: The Giants are expected to assign him to Double-A to begin the 2026 season to further evaluate his progress.
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