Amateur Background and Draft Profile

Kehden Hettiger emerged from Sierra Canyon High School in Chatsworth, California, where he was known more for his offensive upside than his defensive polish. Though he didn’t catch extensively in high school – often playing corner infield positions – he showcased athleticism and raw power that caught scouts’ attention. A switch-hitter with a more advanced left-handed swing, Hettiger displayed excellent pitch recognition and bat speed, particularly during his senior year, when he added significant strength and began launching eye-catching home runs. He was committed to play college ball at Oregon, but the Phillies selected him in the 11th round of the 2023 MLB Draft (343rd overall) and signed him for $397,500 – well above slot value for a Day 3 pick.

Minor League Performance and Development

After signing, Hettiger made a brief debut in the Florida Complex League before spending his first full season with the Clearwater Threshers in 2024. Through 226 at-bats, he posted a slash line of .195/.361/.310 with 5 home runs. In 2025, Hettiger spent most of the season with Jersey Shore and slashed .232/.330/.389 with 8 home runs and 50 RBI, good enough to earn a late season promotion to Double-A Reading. While the batting average is concerning, the on-base percentage reflects his disciplined approach and ability to draw walks. His walk rate hovered around 17%, while his strikeout rate was just under 25%, suggesting a patient hitter who may struggle with contact but sees pitches well.

From a sabermetric standpoint, Hettinger’s isolated power (ISO) sat around .115, indicating modest extra-base hit production. His BABIP (batting average on balls in play) was below league average, which reflects either poor contact quality or some bad luck. His wRC+ (weighted runs created plus) was slightly below 100, meaning he was a below-average offensive contributor overall, though not drastically so given his age and level.

Defensive Profile and Metrics

Defensively, Hettiger is still a work in progress behind the plate. He has a solid arm, graded at 55 on the scouting scale, and has shown flashes of catch-and-throw ability, including pop times around 1.94 seconds during showcases. His receiving and blocking are still developing, and scouts have noted that while he sets up well, his consistency and framing need refinement. His fielding grade sits at 45, and there remains some question about whether he’ll stick at catcher long-term or shift to first base or a corner outfield spot. His arm strength and athleticism give him a chance to remain behind the dish, but his defensive metrics – caught stealing percentage and framing runs – have yet to reach average levels.

Projection and Summary

Hettiger’s scouting grades reflect a player with intriguing tools but considerable risk: Hit 45, Power 45, Run 40, Arm 55, Field 45, Overall 40. He’s currently ranked among the Phillies’ Top 30 prospects, with an estimated MLB arrival around 2028. His offensive ceiling hinges on tapping into his raw power and improving contact rates, especially from the right side. Defensively, he’ll need to show growth in receiving and game management to stick behind the plate. If not, his bat may still carry him to a corner position, where his power and plate discipline would play better.

In short, Kehden Hettiger is a high-risk, high-reward prospect with a mature approach at the plate, flashes of power, and the physical tools to develop into a viable big-league catcher – if the glove and the ability to make contact catch up to his raw power.