Houston Astros select catcher of the future in first round of 2024 MLB Draft

The Houston Astros used their first pick in the 2024 MLB draft to select Sam Houston State catcher Walker Janek.

Janek, a 21-year-old junior, has been Sam Houston State’s starting catcher for three years. He is a versatile prospect on both sides of the ball and was considered the top catcher in the draft by MLB Pipeline.

The catcher finished his college career with a breakout season that saw him set career highs in numerous categories. In 58 games, Janek hit .364/.476/.709 with a 1.185 OPS, 17 home runs and 58 RBIs.

He notably improved his batting discipline considerably between his sophomore and junior years. He struck out twice fewer times in 2024 than in 2023, while drawing 14 more walks.

He is no slouch behind the plate either.

Janek won the Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year award in 2024 and is a good framer with a stronger arm behind the plate. However, some worry that he could become “lackluster” in his framing, something he will need to improve upon when he enters professional baseball.

Ranked as the 24th overall prospect by MLB Pipeline, Janek has done everything expected of him. With Martin Maldonado gone and Yainer Diaz yet to take the next step expected, the Astros must continue to look for options at catcher.

Janek could provide a solution if his bat continues to play.