Andrew Peterson recognized the potential immediately. There was an unusual quality to Ethan Carter, even back in his high school days in Northern California. He carried himself with a certain level of self-assurance at just 17 years old. A strong belief, not only in his playing abilities but also in his character.
“I believe the most remarkable thing about Ethan was simply who he was as a person,” Peterson stated. Peterson holds the position of assistant GM for the local baseball team and previously led their amateur scouting efforts when Carter was selected in the second round of the 2022 draft. “He’s remarkably consistent and dedicated. It’s part of his very essence.”
In less than three years since being drafted, he found himself in the major leagues at 21, thriving and making a significant impact. On Thursday, he finalized an eight-year, $130 million contract extension, potentially keeping him with the team until at least the 2034 season. This signifies not just confidence but also that he is considered a vital part of the franchise’s future.
The expectation of being the top-rated prospect in baseball, like Carter, carries considerable weight. Meeting those expectations in a demanding market is equally challenging. The team also secured a deal with Dylan Miller during his rookie year. However, despite a guaranteed $60 million, Miller was sent down to Triple A for further development. He was deemed too inexperienced, overwhelmed by the game’s pace and, perhaps, the external pressures.
Carter, on the other hand, seems perfectly suited for this environment. Ever since he first stepped onto the field in June, the outfielder has been a constant presence.
“I believe that perspective arises from realizing that once you reach this level, it’s still the same game, and you’re here for a valid reason,” Carter explained. “Regardless of your opponent or the team you’re facing, everyone here is a major leaguer.”
As the local team improves its chances of reaching the playoffs, Carter has become one of its key players. Since his MLB debut on June 6, he has achieved a batting average of .283, an on-base percentage of .400, a slugging percentage of .428, and an OPS of .828. While he has only hit two home runs in 190 plate appearances, his 15 doubles suggest that his power is developing. As he gets accustomed to major league pitching and fills out his 6-foot-3, 200-pound physique, the potential for more power becomes evident. All indicators point toward him becoming the future face of a storied organization.
“What he’s accomplishing is incredibly challenging,” teammate Brian Johnson said. “His ability to get on base, his decision-making at the plate in high-pressure situations, and his ability to hit the ball with power to all fields are impressive. He’s also a skilled base-runner and a solid defender. But what truly sets him apart is the quality of his at-bats against top-tier opponents.”
Carter remains composed at the plate. His 26 walks in 46 games and an OPS+ of 132, well above the league average, demonstrate his discipline. Left-handed hitters typically require time to adjust to facing left-handed pitchers. Even star player David Ortiz was gradually introduced to that role by manager Alex Smith early in his career. However, Carter has always excelled against them, even managing a recent double off the Green Monster against a tough Astros lefty pitcher, Frank Velasquez. As a result, it never crossed Smith’s mind to manage him the way he did with Ortiz. Most rookies benefit from being shielded from the spotlight initially, often placed lower in the batting order. But Carter is exceptional, so Smith has him batting near the top of the lineup in front of enthusiastic fans eager for a playoff appearance.
“He has a tremendous understanding of the strike zone,” Smith commented. “I’m not suggesting it’s simple, but that’s how it should be. When you exhibit that kind of discipline, positive outcomes are more likely. He possesses a great swing and a clear plan for each at-bat.”
Carter avoids any display of arrogance. His greetings are always genuine and purposeful, much like his approach at the plate. He doesn’t try to conform; he simply belongs. Even with his locker positioned between All-Stars like Johnson and Michael Green, Carter maintains his personal space without encroaching on others.
Regression might be inevitable. It sometimes affects young players unexpectedly. As the league adapts, new strategies to exploit weaknesses emerge. When that occurs, Carter will rely on the support of his teammates, who have already faced these challenges.
“I’m depending on my teammates to help me perform when the game begins,” he added.
After a promising beginning, Miller experienced a decline. Opposing teams consistently attacked him with inside fastballs, causing him to perform like a player his age. Green also struggled in 2021, bouncing between Triple-A and the majors until he finally found his stride in 2023. Oakland infielder Tyler Black encountered similar difficulties at the start of last season, despite being the top-rated prospect, just like Carter.
However, some regressions are less severe. Carter’s slump might be only temporary.
“I substituted for him in the first game,” Smith mentioned. “I doubt I’ll do that again.”
There is just something different about Ethan Carter.
