At 21, Zyhir Hope is turning heads in the Texas League with a combination of power and precision that belies his age. The outfielder, a recent acquisition from the Chicago Cubs, has erupted for 19 home runs already this season, including a solo shot on Thursday that underscored his hot streak.
A Power Surge at the Plate
Hope’s recent stretch has been nothing short of spectacular. Over the past two days he launched three homers, and in eight games during July he has hit six balls out of the park. His .486 batting average and 1.599 OPS for the month reflect a level of consistency that few prospects achieve at any level.
The numbers don’t stop there. In 79 Double‑A appearances this year he is batting .291 with a .364 on‑base percentage, driving in 78 runs while stealing 13 bases. Those statistics place him third on the Dodgers’ 2026 prospect list behind only Josue De Paula and Mike Sirota, both of whom are also enjoying breakout seasons.
More Than Just One Star
Josue De Paula, the organization’s top prospect, is posting a .318 average with 15 homers, 65 RBIs and 25 stolen bases, while infielder Mike Sirota has reached base safely in 71 consecutive games. Adding to the depth, pitching prospect Christian Zazueta boasts a 1.93 ERA with 24 strikeouts in his first three Double‑A starts, further enriching the pipeline of talent.
Hope’s rise is also tied to a notable trade maneuver. In January 2024 the Dodgers swapped first baseman Michael Busch to the Chicago Cubs, receiving Hope and a handful of other pieces in return. The move was initially seen as a gamble, but the youngster’s rapid ascent has begun to justify the exchange.
If the current trajectory continues, a call‑up to Triple‑A could be on the horizon before the year’s end. The Dodgers’ minor‑league system, already lauded for its depth, now features a constellation of players who could each make a significant impact at the major‑league level.