John Peck Scouting Report

John Peck Scouting Report

Background: A native of Moorpark, California, John Peck is a right-handed hitting infielder who was a three-year starter at Pepperdine University. He had a terrific sophomore campaign, batting .361/.417/.578 for the Waves. But a rough go in the Cape Cod League and an iffy junior season saw him last until the 7th round of the 2023 draft, where the Tigers took him.

Physical description: Peck is listed at 6-foot-0 and 185 pounds, and that appears accurate. He’s lithe and athletic, and looks the part of a big-league infielder. Peck started pro ball with an open stance that saw him hold his his hands above his head, with the bat parallel to the ground behind him, before transitioning into a big leg kick and swing. In early 2025 he closed his stance and lowered his hands to about chin level, with his bat nearly vertical. The leg kick remained.

Hit: 40 (up from 30)

Peck’s stance changes have led to a slightly toned down, more balanced swing. He is still vulnerable to breaking balls low and away, but he otherwise makes solid swing decisions, handles velocity, and makes a lot of in-zone contact. He specializes in hitting the ball hard to the opposite field.

Power: 45 (up from 40)

Peck swings hard, and as a result he makes a lot of hard contact. But his over-the-fence power remains middling because he sprays the ball all over the field and puts it on the ground far too much. He is capable of hitting home runs to all parts of the field, but his low launch angles generally result in more singles and doubles.

Run: 55

Peck shows average home-to-first times, but he moves very well underway. He’s a heady, aggressive base stealer who takes advantage of inexperienced batteries. His steal numbers will likely come down at higher levels, but he should nab double-digit bags annually.

Defense: 50

Peck is a quality defender on the left side of the infield, with average range, good hands, and an above-average arm. He would likely be a plus defender at second base. He even moonlighted in the outfield in college, and would likely be decent in all three spots.

Arm: 55

Peck shows an above-average arm that lets him make all the necessary throws from shortstop and third base.

Overall: John Peck was an under-the-radar prospect in the Tigers system, but an impressive showing in 2026 Spring Training put him squarely on the map. His stance changes have brought him closer to having at least average big-league tools across the board. But the hit tool and power are probably still a little light to project him as an everyday regular. He does have enough skill with the bat to make MLB pitchers pay for their mistakes, and that, along with his speed and defensive versatility, should made him a valuable utility player.

Original scouting report written on 3/15/25 – Updated on 8/31/26