The Baseball Chronicle

Top 200 MLB Prospects for 2011

2011-02-08T03:26:00.002-05:00

Please visit our new website: http://baseballnewshound.com/

Also available at rankings.baseballnewshound.com

Ranking the Top Prospects in Major League Baseball

by Ryan S. Kelley

Description of Rankings and Scoring Methods:

Below is a rankings database constructed by Ryan Kelley, Executive Editor of Baseball News Hound L.L.C. Top prospects are ranked based on scouting grades derived from Baseball News Hound scouting reports. A list of other sources where information was consulted or used is available at the bottom of this page and listed under "Bibliography."

All scouting grades are based on the standard "20-80" scouting scale. Ratings of 50 and 55 are considered low-average and high-average tools respectively. Low-average and high-average tools are given to prospect skills that project to fall within the range of MLB average when (and if) they play in the Major Leagues. Scores above this range (60-80) are considered above-average, "plus," and "plus-plus" respectively, and indicate skills that project to outperform the average Major League player of the same position. A plus (rated 60-65) fastball, for instance, would indicate a fastball that features consistent 92-95 mph velocity, and movement at or above the average Major League fastball movement. Outside of velocity and movement, a pitches's overall effectiveness determines its' score.

Tools projected to be below average tools are scored in the 20-45 range. Generally however, and tools rated below 40 are extremely rare at the Major League Level. Adam Dunn/Sean Casey running speed are "30" tools, and Jason Tyner batting power would be at the bottom of the scale as well.

All grades account for a players' present and projected ability. Young prospects for instance, won't have the present skills that Major League players and more experienced prospects have, but their potential skills might allow them to grade comparably.

An in-depth description of the scale is available here at Baseball Prospectus.

Rankings:

Click here to view the rankings in a new window, or view the embedded spreadsheet below.

Top 200 MLB Prospects 2011

Key/Glossary:

The above columns/categories are as follows:

Rank: The players' overall rank in comparison to other top prospects.

Grade: A rough letter grade on the scale F-A+ defining the prospects' overall value. This grade takes in to account their skills, experience level, and any attribute that possibly affects their future. A top-tier, five-tool scout may still fall below the A range due to injury concerns, make-up issues or other negative attributes that could decrease the players' overall value.

D.O.B.: "Date-Of-Birth" is the players' birth date.

Hght/Wght: The players' height (in inches) and weight (in pounds).

OPS: (Batters) Aggregate (Minor League) career On-Base-Plus-Slugging Percentage (expressed as a decimal here)

ERA: (Pitchers) Aggregate (Minor League) career Earned-Run-Average.

Bat: (Batters) A score for the batters' hitting ability. Distinct from power or plate discipline, this is a measurement of a batters' ability to hit for batting average and to make square contact to all fields.

Fb: (Pitchers) A score for the pitchers' fastball effectiveness. The score is based on fastball velocity, movement and the pitchers' ability to utilize it.

Pwr: (Batters) A score for the batters' ability to hit the baseball with authority and generate extra base hits. The score is based on the batters' bat speed, strength, loft and both raw and projected power.

Bb: (Pitchers) A score for the pitchers' "breaking-ball" or repertoire of breaking pitches. The score accounts the velocity, the amount of break, the sharpness of the break and the overall effectiveness of the pitchers' breaking pitches.

Spd: (Batters) A score for a baserunner's in game runnings speed. This score rates a players' running speed on the basepaths, out of the batters box and in the field (while playing defense).

Ch: (Pitchers) A score for a pitchers' changeup(s). The score is based on the pitches' velocity, movement, on the arm-speed with which the pitcher delivers it.

Fld: (Batters) A score for a batters' overall defensive ability. Arm strength, throw accuracy, range, agility/body control are the primary factors taken in to account for this grade.

Cmd: (Pitchers) A scouting score for the pitchers' ability to locate his pitches.

Dis: (Batters) A grade for the batters' plate discipline. The batters' ability to reach base against advanced pitching, to work the count to his favor and to make quick adjustments when needed.

Pol: (Pitchers) A score for a pitchers' effectiveness outside of a pure 'stuff' level. Pitching intelligence, poise/mound presence and clean mechanics are considered here.

Full Scouting Reports

Full scouting reports on top prospects in baseball are available at scout.baseballnewshound.com. Many of the reports are in the process of being formatted and posted, but a complete list of reports on the top 50 prospects will be available by February 11, 2011. We are still in the process of editing all scouting reports. Please excuse any grammatical or formatting errors.

Bibliography:

Callis, Jim, John Manuel, and Jim Shonerd. Baseball America. Web. 06 Feb. 2011. <http://www.baseballamerica.com>.

Forman, Sean. Baseball-Reference.com - Major League Baseball Statistics and History. Sports Reference L.L.C., 1 May 2004. Web. Nov. 2010. <http://www.baseball-reference.com/>.

Kelley, Ryan S. "Top 100 MLB Prospects for 2010." The Baseball Chronicle. The Baseball News Hound L.L.C., 6 Nov. 2009. Web. <http://thebaseballchronicle.blogspot.com/2009/11/top-25-mlb-prospects-spring-2010.html>.

All articles and spreadsheets on this page are property of BaseballNewsHound.com and Baseball News Hound L.L.C.

Red Sox Add Bobby Jenks and Others to 'Pen, Projected Payroll Outpaces Yankees' (For Now)

2010-12-16T17:43:00.000-05:00

According to ESPN's Buster Olney, (on Twitter) the Red Sox have signed former Chicago White Sox closer, Bobby Jenks, to a two-year $12 million dollar contract. After Jenks' relatively disappointing season, where he posted a 4.44 ERA, the White Sox decided to non-tender the reliever in November.

Bobby Jenks, a former All-Star, is one of a trip of high-profile Red Sox acquisitions this month. The Red Sox added perennial American League and National League MVP candidates, Carl Crawford and Adrian Gonzalez earlier in December, during the winter meetings.

The Red Sox have also made a number of smaller transactions this offseason. They've handed new contracts to veteran main-stays, Jason Varitek and David Ortiz, and have added a number of veteran pitchers. Earlier today it was reported that the team would re-sign former Detroit Tigers' top prospect Andrew Miller, and was preparing to sign free agent pitcher Matt Albers.

With the recent, expensive acquistions of Gonzalez, Crawford, and Jenks combined with new contracts for veterans like Jason Varitek and David Ortiz, the Red Sox may have passed the Yankees' projected 2011 payroll-- for the time being.

Yankees Sign Russell Martin

2010-12-14T17:40:00.001-05:00

Yankees Sign Russell Martin To One Year Deal
Ryan Kelley
12/14/10
3:47pm EST

The New York Yankees are in the process of signing former All-Star catcher Russell Martin to a deal that will probably keep him in New York through 2012. This signing came only hours after the team fell short of signing their primary target this offseason, star free agent pitcher Cliff Lee. Lee’s decision to sign with the Phillies, instead, shocked much of the baseball community.

Only a couple of years ago, Martin, the Dodger’s former starting catcher, was one of the National League’s rising stars. He made the NL All-Star team in 2007 and 2008, and has won both a Gold Glove and Silver Slugger. Marred by injury, Martin has seen a steep drop in his production these past two seasons, failing to post an OPS above .680. His defense is still premium among MLB catchers, though, and he has experience playing third base as well.

The Yankees hope that Martin can rebound from the hip injury—a hairline fracture—that depressed his 2009 production. In order for his contract to become official, Martin will have to pass a physical proving his health. With less than five years of MLB service time, Martin will be under team control through 2012.

Earlier this winter, the Dodgers offered Martin a $4.2 million dollar contract, with an additional $1.1 million in incentives. The two sides weren’t able to reach an agreement and Martin was non-tendered a couple of weeks ago.

Martin, a native of Montreal Quebec, had stated that he wanted to play for an East Coast team so that he could be closer to his home city. Naturally, the Boston Red Sox and the Toronto Blue Jays were also possible suitors for the 28-year-old catcher.

The Phillies Attract a Stud: Free Agent Pitcher Cliff Lee Agrees to Contract With Philadelphia

2010-12-14T03:26:00.002-05:00

The Phillies Attract a Stud: Free Agent Pitcher Cliff Lee Agrees to Contract With Philadelphia

Ryan Kelley
12/14/10
2:55AM

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, and Jim Luttrell of the New York Times, free agent pitcher, Cliff Lee, has agreed to sign a five-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies worth between $100 and $120 million.

The ace lefthander’s decision to sign with the Phillies comes as surprise to those who followed reports made throughout this offseason. While there were murmurs that a mystery “third” team was pursuing Lee throughout the past few weeks, the two highest bidders—the New York Yankees and Texas Rangers—were considered to be the only franchises willing (and able) to sign the lefty. New York had offered Lee the two most lucrative contracts, one proposing 6 years and $138 million guaranteed (with a $16 million dollar player option), and another at 7 years and about $150 million.

Hours before Lee had made his decision to sign with Philadelphia, his agent Darek Braunecker contacted Yankees’ General Manager Brian Cashman to let the Yankees know that they were “going in a different direction.”

Lee, the 2008 American League Cy Young Award Winner will join the 2010 National League Cy Young award winner, Roy Halladay along with 2008 World Series MVP Cole Hamels, All Star Roy Oswalt and Joe Blanton in the Phillies’ (projected) 2011 rotation. However, to relax some pressure on the Phillies’ weighty 2011 payroll, GM Ruben Amaro Jr. could trade Joe Blanton and insert reliever Jose Contreras into the rotation.

Yankees Offer Star Pitcher Cliff Lee Seven Year Contract

2010-12-09T18:22:00.003-05:00

Yankees Offer Star Pitcher Cliff Lee Seven Year Contract

In the wake of the Red Sox’ signing of star leftfielder, Carl Crawford, to a seven year $142 million dollar contract, the New York Times has reported that the Yankees offered free agent pitcher, Cliff Lee a seven-year, $161 million dollar contract.

Firmly locked in a bidding war with the Texas Rangers, the Yankees had already offered Lee a six-year, $140 million dollar contract earlier in the winter meetings. But, with the Red Sox addition of two star, left-handed batters this week, the Yankees decided to increase their contract offer to seven years- a length that only the Red Sox had offered Lee previously. However, the new offer from the Yankees has less annual value than their previous, six-year offer.

It seems that Lee's agent, Darek Braunecker has played his hand well. Waiting until after other top free agents, Jason Werth and Carl Crawford had signed to gauge Lee's market value, and gambling on the Yankees desperation to add a top left-handed starter. In such a strong division, heavy on left-handed sluggers and with their biggest rival, the Red Sox adding so much talent, Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman is now left with little leverage in talks with Cliff Lee.

Red Sox Sign Carl Crawford, Put Pressure on Yankees

2010-12-09T17:35:00.004-05:00

Red Sox Sign Carl Crawford, Put Pressure on Yankees
by Ryan Kelley
12/08/10
2:27am

On Wednesday night the Red Sox signed free agent All-Star outfielder Carl Crawford to a near record-breaking seven-year, $142 million dollar contract.

Throughout the recent winter meetings, it seemed that Red Sox General Manager, Theo Epstein, had been too busy, already working on acquiring Adrian Gonzalez from the Padres, to be close to a second blockbuster deal. In fact, the Red Sox visible interest in Crawford was most defined by media reports that Crawford’s price tag—enlarged by the Nationals’ big-money signing of outfielder Jason Werth—was too gaudy for the team’s taste. Clearly, the team wasn't intimidated by adding another big contract to their 2011 payroll, and they handed one baseball's richest contracts to Crawford.

Theo Epstein's Plan to Sign Crawford

This move shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise to those who follow recent business in the American League East, though. Apparent in his array of transactions last offseason, Epstein was planning to make a run a big-money outfielder this year. The move seems even more natural after a disappointing 2010 season. Interestingly enough, the deal should also push New York Yankees' General Manager, Brian Cashman, into an even more difficult position this offseason.

The Red Sox waited out the winter meetings last offseason and ended their 2009-2010 offseason with only short-term signings. There was some speculation that the team had signed veteran centerfielder Mike Cameron to keep an outfield spot warm for Crawford, and that the Padres’ All-Star first baseman Adrian Gonzalez would be one of the team’s targets moving forward.

Fast-forward through a relatively disappointing season where the team finished third in the American League East, and the Red Sox have taken the spotlight once again. Adding Carl Crawford and Adrian Gonzalez to a lineup that already includes Dustin Pedroia, Kevin Youkilis, David Ortiz and Jacoby Ellsbury has made the Sox the favorite to win the American League Pennant in 2011.

Carl Crawford, still just 29 years old, is already a four time All-Star, and is baseball’s active leader in triples, range factor (per game) for a left fielder and is second in stolen bases. An asset on both sides of the ball, the speedy outfielder added both a Gold Glove and Silver Slugger to his resume this off-season.

Boston Has Forced the Yankees into a Difficult Position

However, Crawford fits the Red Sox preferences in one more important way. His addition means more than just an increase in production—it also forces the team’s rival, and primary competition, the New York Yankees, in to a very undesirable position in regard to their own, expensive, offseason negotiations.

The Red Sox lineup will now feature 5 left-handed batters—all in key, run-producing positions. Crawford (two-hitter), along with (lead-off man) Jacoby Ellsbury, (clean-up hitter) Adrian Gonzalez, (number-six hitter) David Ortiz, and (number-seven hitter) JD Drew all show considerable platoon-splits, with Crawford, Ortiz and Drew having the most difficulty with lefties.

With the Yankees already in hot pursuit for left-handed ace pitcher Cliff Lee, recently offering him a record-breaking 6-year $140 million dollar contract, the Red Sox have pushed the Yankees’ hand even further; forcing them to offer Lee a 7th year and even more money. Now that the Yankees’ lineup is suddenly out-gunned by their rival, the team is obviously even more desperate to help their starting rotation. Because the Red Sox, have such a left-handed batting order, the Yankees will have no choice but to pursue another star lefty-- Cliff Lee-- to join C.C. Sabathia in the rotation. By this same thinking, the Red Sox have given veteran lefty Andy Pettitte even more leverage in his contract negotiations with the Yankees.

Up until this point, the Yankees had already been in desperate need of left-handed pitchers. Boone Logan and Neil Cotts, both unreliable options, are the team’s lone lefty relievers who have major league experience. Depending on the outcome of the Lee and Pettitte contract negotiations, the Yankees could be more inclined to pursue expensive lefty relievers like Scott Downs and Pedro Feliciano.

So, in a sense, the Red Sox used Crawford as a gambit. They handed him a massive contract in hopes of receiving All-Star level production, and in hopes of forcing the Yankees into drowning their flexibility with an even more massive payroll. At the very least, Crawford’s contract has made Cliff Lee wealthier, and has made Yankees GM Brian Cashman sweat.

Boston Going Gonzo: Adrian Gonzalez Traded to Boston Red Sox

2010-12-05T21:53:00.002-05:00

Boston Going Gonzo: Adrian Gonzalez Traded to Boston Red Sox

Ryan Kelley
12/5/10
8:44 PM EST

Although no deal has been officially announced, numerous reports indicate that All Star first baseman Adrian Gonzalez will be traded to the Boston Red Sox in exchange for a package of top prospects that includes pitcher Casey Kelly first baseman Anthony Rizzo, outfielder Reymond Fuentes and one other mid-range prospect-- possibly pitcher Drake Britton.

Early Sunday afternoon, Sports Illustrated’s Jon Heyman reported (via Twitter) that a deal between the Red Sox and Padres for Adrian Gonzalez had fallen through; just hours later he reported that a deal was being finalized between the two teams. Heyman also stated that a press conference announcing the trade is scheduled for tomorrow.

With the acquisition of Gonzalez, Boston will likely leave the running for former Phillies outfielder, Jason Werth, and will move to sign their new slugger to a more lucrative new contract. This could also mean that Adrian Beltre’s time in Boston is over, and that Kevin Youkilis will move from first base back to the hot corner next season.

Casey Kelly was Boston’s top pick—drafted 30th overall—in the 2008 MLB Amateur Draft. Drafted as a two-way player, Kelly had spent much of his first two professional seasons playing both shortstop and pitcher, but was eventually moved to full time duty on the mound. Once he focused solely on pitching, Kelly’s stock exploded as he blew South Atlantic and Carolina League hitters away with his plus command and impressive repertoire. However, last season, as one of the youngest pitchers in the Eastern League, Kelly struggled and attracted some questions about his fastball velocity and his eventual ceiling.

Despite his struggles last year, Kelly is still viewed as an eventual above-average starting pitcher in the MLB. This past November, Baseball America rated Kelly as Boston’s top prospect heading in to 2011 season.

Reymond Fuentes and Anthony Rizzo are both mid-range prospects with much less projection. Rizzo, the better of the two, won Boston’s Minor League Player of the Year Award (along with catcher Ryan Lavarnway) and could eventually become a solid player in the MLB. His power was rated by Baseball America as the best in Boston’s system for 2011.

Fuentes has plus speed and stole 42 bases in the South Atlantic League in 2010. While he is still very raw in terms of development, Baseball America ranked him as Boston’s 6th best prosect for 2011.

The addition of Adrian Gonzalez will give the Red Sox much needed power in the heart of their batting order. While David Ortiz, the teams’ clean-up hitter and top power source since 2003, showed some resurgence last year after a disappointing 2009 season, his numbers have sharply declined since his years on the MVP ballot (2004-2007).

The addition of Gonzalez, whom has been the National League All Star Team’s starting first basemen for the past three years, will also help to fill the void left by the departures of Adrian Beltre and Victor Martinez. A former number one overall pick (2000), Gonzalez has a career .875 OPS and has won two Gold Gloves at first base. Still only 28 years old, he is considered to be one of the top players in baseball and he finished forth in MVP balloting this past November.

Top (Remaining) Cuban Baseball Free Agents: Ruiz, Anderson, Hechevarria

2010-02-11T01:22:00.006-05:00

Check out the MLB Chronicle's 2010 Top 400 MLB Prospects

After many of this year's wave of Cuban baseball have been signed by MLB teams, there are still a number of talented players that remain available. So far this winter, Jose Iglesias, Noel Arguelles and Aroldis Chapman have flooded sports and business news after signing lucrative contracts. Chapman especially, was considered to be a gem on the free agent market, approaching the notoriety that Japanese star pitcher, Daisuke Matsuzaka, held a few seasons ago.

Earlier this month, first basemen Jose Julio Ruiz and outfielder Leslie Anderson were cleared to seek MLB contracts. Now, possibly the most talented Cuban defector not named "Aroldis Chapman," 19-year-old shortstop, Adeiny Hechevarria, is reportedly being sought after by as many as six MLB teams, including the Los Angeles Angels.

While Jose Iglesias, signed by the Red Sox earlier this winter for $8.2 million dollars, has garnered more buzz, Hechevarria actually forced Iglesias to second base while playing on the Cuban Junior National Team in 2007. While Iglesias has the tools to be something like a softer-hitting Orlando Cabrera, Hechevarria has the power potential to hit 15-20 home runs, and the range and arm to win a Gold Glove in the MLB. There's no doubt, Iglesias is a very talented player, and one who has a chance to embody the classic MLB shortstop-- mixing his steady glove with a contact-oriented bat. However, Hechevarria is much more athletic than the two-dimensional Iglesias, and can offer more bat and even more glove (if he adjusts well to American baseball). A shortstop similar to Yuniesky Bethancourt, with better defense, isn't a tall order from a player like Hechevarria, and at best, he could be something similar to a 2007-2008 J.J. Hardy.

Set to turn 26 this March, Jose Julio Ruiz-- arguably the most advanced bat available among the 2009-2010 class of Cuban baseball free agents-- can hit for both average and power, and has enough speed and athleticism to handle the outfield corners. While he won't hit 30 bombs in the MLB, Ruiz could use his strong cut to hit .280 with 18-25 home runs and he could rack up doubles with his above average speed and base-running instincts. At best he will be similar player to the Mariners' Casey Kotchman. He isn't a high-reward prospect, but because his skill-set (athletic first baseman with a polished, line-drive bat) is one that shouldn't deteriorate with his adjustment to American baseball, he isn't one that comes with considerable risk either.

Leslie Anderson is an older prospect, turning 28 this spring, but he does offer an impressive hitting savvy that could be useful on an MLB club. While Anderson played centerfield for the Cuban National team, he would probably fit better in left field or even first base in the MLB-- he also has experience in right. While his tools are fairly pedestrian, Anderson does have plus to plus-plus bat control, regularly hitting well over .300 and striking out far less than he walks. If given the chance, Anderson could be something like the Braves' Matt Diaz or a young Orlando Palmeiro with more gap-power. As always, until young Cuban ballplayers get a few months worth of red meat and protein in their diets, it's difficult to project their power and arm strength. However, because Anderson is already in his prime years, his ceiling isn't far off and he probably won't develop the power to hit more than 10-15 homeruns when given 600 at bats.

Below are videos of Ruiz, Anderson and Hechevarria provided by CubanBallPlayers.com.

Check out the MLB Chronicle on Twitter and keep up with every notable MLB transaction this winter.

Hechevarria comes to bat at the 3'40" mark in this video, then makes a web gem later in the video...

MLB Top 350+ Prospects for 2010 (Arranged by Position)

2010-02-01T15:36:00.007-05:00

The Spreadsheet is viewable below. Click here to view The MLB Chronicle's 2010 Top 350+ MLB Prospects (ranked and arranged by position)!

The following spreadsheet file is a listing of The (Major League) Baseball Chronicle's top 300 MLB prospects for 2010. The prospects are arranged by position and ranked by their overall talent, and their distance from the Major Leagues. For position players, scouting ratings (using the standard 20-80 Scouting Scale) are provided for their hitting ability ("Bat"), power ("Pwr"), base-running speed ("Spd"), overall defensive ability ("Fld"), and for their plate discipline/batting approach ("Dis"). I've also provided, each players' name, primary position(s), career on-base-plus-slugging percentage ("OPS")-- in the minor leagues (including the Dominican Summer League)--, their handedness with which they bat and throw ("B/T" for "bats and throws"), their date of birth ("D.O.B."), their height and weight ("Ht/Wt"), and their overall prospect grade ("Grade").

The 20-80 scouting scale used by The Major League Baseball Chronicle, is one that is almost universal utilized by baseball scouting organizations. The numbers are projections of what the player could do, when (and if) they reach 80% of their potential. A scouting rating of "50" represents the MLB average-- 15 homeruns, an 87-88 mph fastball, a .270 batting average etc... A scouting rating of "80" is extremely rare, and only given to the most impressive skills-- Adam Dunn's power, Jose Reyes' speed, Tony Gwynn's batting ability, Ozzie Smith's defense, Pedro Martinez' changeup, Nolan Ryan's fastball, Barry Zito's curveball, etc... A scouting rating of "35" is fringe MLB-passable for most skills, except defense due to the existence of the designated hitter in the AL. Occasionally subpar skills (a Tim Wakefield's fastball velocity, Sean Casey's foot-speed, Adam Dunn's defense) (below a "35" rating) are acceptable if the player's other skills compensate. Jason Tyner for instance, had 1358 MLB at bats despite hitting just one homerun during that span. A scouting rating of "20" is a skill that will keep a player from receiving an at bat in the Major Leagues and is rarely seen in Minor League baseball.

For pitchers, the same information that was listed for batters is provided (Name, position, team, grade, etc...)-- except their scouting ratings are appropriate for their position. In the hitter's batting-ability column, pitchers have a rating for their fastball movement and velocity ("fb"). In the hitter's power column, pitchers have a rating for their breaking-ball movement and velocity ("Bb"), followed by a rating for their changeup movement/velocity ("ch") in the next column, their overall command and control ("Cmd") in the next, and finally a rating for their polish ("pol") (-- a measure of major-league readiness and pitching intelligence-- in the final column. Note that, instead of providing an OPS, a pitchers' career, minor league, earned-run-average ("ERA"), is listed.

All of the prospects listed on this spreadsheet have less than 150 Major League at bats and less than 50 MLB innings pitched. Most of the players listed on this sheet have no experience in the Major Leagues, while some have no professional baseball experience whatsoever.

For players that have an inadequate amount of statistical data in the Minor Leagues, "N/A" is listed under their "OPS" or "ERA" columns.

By the end of the week, written scouting reports for each of these players will be posted, but premium information will only be available to online subscribers ($19.95 + $2.95 s&h for access to the 2010 TBC Prospect Handbook). For subscription information, please contact Ryan Kelley (rskelley9@gmail.com) or Laura Ryan (lryan09@gmail.com) for further details. The official website of The Major League Baseball Chronicle (www.mlbchronicle.com) is currently being repaired, and will be available by February 3rd, 2010.

(c) 2010, RyanSK LLC. MLB Top 350+ Prospects 2010 is property of RyanSK LLC. Any attempt to copy or redistribute MLB Top 350+ Prospects for 2010 is illegal and those responsible will be prosecuted to the utmost of the law.

Follow The Baseball Chronicle on TWITTER!

2010-01-29T07:04:00.003-05:00

The Baseball Chronicle now has a twitter account! Check it out for updates on new blog posts, the new upcoming website (www.MLBchronicle.com), and more! Go to www.twitter.com/MLBchronicle or follow @MLBchronicle !!

Dominican I.F.A. Rafael DePaula Back on Market

2010-01-28T10:04:00.005-05:00

After being suspended by Major League Baseball for misrepresenting his age, the young, right-handed pitcher Rafael DePaula is once again fielding offers from MLB clubs. Just weeks ago DePaula and his agent considered beginning DePaula's professional career in Japan instead of the United States. However, the relatively minor level of deception that DePaula used (a matter of a few months) has probably allowed the Dominican teenager the opportunity to being his career in the US.

Numerous teams have resumed contacting/scouting DePaula. Both the Yankees and the Red Sox are reportedly interested in signing him. The seventeen year old righty wields a low 90s fastball and a repertoire of breaking pitches that have shown impressive potential. With further maturation and development, many scouts believe that DePaula will become a fire-balling ace, capable of launching mid-to-high 90s fastballs and spinning razor sharp sliders past opposing batters.

While no formal offers have been reported, DePaula should easily command a seven-figure contract. However, his age-misrepresentation offense won't be taken lightly by many clubs--especially those that have been burned in similar (but certainly more severe) cases in the past, and his final contract will definitely max out considerably below what it would have been, had he avoided being caught.

Below is a video of DePaula pitching for scouts while in the Dominican Republic. The video is from Kiley McDaniel of Baseball Prospectus.

Rafael DePaula from Kiley McDaniel on Vimeo.

Feeling Randy Baby-- Yankees Put Randy Winn in Pinstripes

2010-01-28T07:07:00.007-05:00

After acquiring outfield prospect Greg Golson from the Texas Rangers earlier in the week, the Yankees signed former Giants left fielder, Randy Winn, to a one year deal worth at least two million dollars.

The switch-hitting Winn who turns 36-years-old in June, has a career .286 batting average and 209 stolen bases throughout his 12 seasons in the MLB. Although Winn is coming off one of the worst years of his career--batting .262 with just two home runs and posting a disappointing .671 OPS over 538 at bats-- the Yankees found his impressive and underrated defense in the outfield corners, where he has contended for a gold glove annually, as a justifiable reason to give him a deal. While Winn fits best in left field, where he will sport one of the best gloves in the American League, he is also capable of playing plus defense in right and even playing slightly-above-average defense in center.

His relatively cheap contract, positive clubhouse presence, professional bat and plus defense make signing Winn for a year a low-risk/relatively-nice-reward-deal. What's puzzling however is the glut of outfielders that can't hit lefties that the Yankees are now left with. While Winn has actually hit lefties at a decent clip throughout his career (.280 batting average, .758 OPS) he batted just .158 and posted an abominable .384 OPS against them in 2009. Curtis Granderson has posted a .614 OPS against lefties throughout his career, while Brett Gardner has posted a .627 OPS against southpaws in his. Gardner, however, improved his pitch recognition to the point where he actually hit southpaws slightly better than right-handers in 2009.

Signing Randy Winn would make sense, however, if GM Brian Cashman does indeed close the deal on Rocco Baldelli. While Baldelli, a former super-prospect, does have a debilitating illness--channelopathy-- that has robbed him of the ability to start everyday, he does provide a cheap, lefty-mashing bat. The 28-year-old outfielder has a career .495 slugging percentage and has an .831 OPS against lefties. Outside of his 2007 season, Rocco has never had an OPS below .786 when batting against lefty pitchers. Baldelli also has a strong, accurate arm, has plus baserunning instincts and speed, and can play all three outfield positions better than the average MLB outfielder.

Currently, Cashman seems content on the minor league deal he offered to Baldelli earlier in January. Signing the Rhode Island native to a minor league contract would allow the Yankees to keep Rule-5 Draft pick, outfielder Jamie Hoffman, on the roster until he proves either worthy or ineffective. If Hoffman does struggle, he could be stashed on the disabled list--something the Nationals and many other teams are notorious for doing with their Rule-5 picks-- after the first few weeks of the season, allowing Rocco the chance to claim his spot with the big club by June. If Hoffman refuses to be stashed on the DL, the Yankees could either give him more time or attempt to return him to the Nationals. Frankly, if the Yankees have to pay a small some of money to the Dodgers for returning Hoffman, they would still net a benefit from the Bruney-for-Hoffman trade by avoiding the expensive arbitration sum that a marginally useful Bruney would have commanded.

If the Yankees don't end up signing Rocco Baldelli, it has been rumored on MLBTR.com, that Johnny Gomes could be Cashman's backup plan if he is willing to accept a minor league contract. Like Baldelli, Gomes is a former Devil Ray whom is particularly adept at hitting lefties. Unfortunately Gomes can do little else--offering a poor glove, high strikeout rates and no speed.

Gol Tending: Yankees Acquire Outfielder Greg Golson from Rangers

Just days before signing Randy Winn for 2010, the Yankees sent a failed prosect-- former Purdue star Mitch Hilligoss-- and cash to the Texas Rangers for another failed prospect, Greg Golson. After signing a failed ballplayer, Khalil Greene, the Rangers designated Golson for assignment and immediately started listening for offers.

Golson, rated as the "Best Athlete" in the Rangers system prior to the 2009 season by Baseball America was actually somewhat of a steal for the Yanks. While he hasn't lived up to expectations (barely posting a .700 OPS in 2,558 official at bats in the minors and going hitless in a handful of MLB at bats) since being drafted 21st overall by the Phillies in 2004, the 24-year-old outfielder does possess 5 tool talent and plus-to-plus-plus speed. Even if Golson fails to hit for the average and power that he was projected to have five years into his professional career, he still possesses a strong arm, plus outfield range and the ability to be a valuable pinch runner. While Brett Gardner seems to be well entrenched in the Yankees plans for 2010, using his top-shelf speed, strong arm, and adequate (yet somewhat soft) bat to secure about a half-season worth of playing time as defensive/stolen base specialist, Golson is a somewhat comparable option whom could be a nice insurance policy if Granderson, Gardner or Winn land on the DL. Before posting a forgettable 2009 at AAA Oklahoma within the Rangers organization, Golson had batted .282 with 13 bombs, 23 stolen bases in 2008, and had received praise for his small improvements on his sometimes spectacular/sometimes sloppy defense in center field.

Women May Work from Sun to Sun but a G.M.'s Work is Never...

Now that the Yankees' outfield is somewhat more stable than what it was coming in to the 2010 offseason, GM Brian Cashman will continue to wait for a few remaining players to fall in to his price range. With Baldelli somewhat close to signing, the acquisition of veteran backstop Mike Rivera, and the loss of Jerry Hairston Jr. to the Padres, Cashman will surely turn his attention to an infielder/utilityman who could compete for a spot on the bench this Spring. While Ramiro Pena is a nice fielder, capable of playing plus defense up the middle and playing a solid third base, his hitting leaves a lot to be desired. Free agents, Felipe Lopez and Orlando Hudson are both likely looking elsewhere for a starting job and/or more money than the Yankees can currently offer, however. Free agent Adam Kennedy wouldn't be enough of an improvement over Pena, and Orlando Cabrera is probably too expensive. Lefty Noah Lowry, coming off a two-year spat of thoracic outlet syndrome is worth a look for his bargain-level price tag and the Yankees' sparse supply of effective left-handed relievers. Marlins second baseman, Dan Uggla is still on the trading block and may be a good fit for the Yankees if he's willing to accept both a reduction in playing time and an increase in time at third base and (possibly) left field. Uggla's recent raise in salary would make him an expensive option as well. Frankly, Jerry Hairston Jr. was a very good fit for the Bombers, and unless Cashman can find someone comparable on the trade market, his loss will be felt in 2010.

Overall, signing Randy Winn, trading nothing of value for Greg Golson and offering Rocco Baldelli a reasonable contract have put the Yankees in a good spot for 2010. While their roster does have a few holes left in it, Brian Cashman has improved upon the 2009 team and has given the Steinbrenner's the flexibility to trade for a premium player this summer and/or to bid on Joe Mauer, Carl Crawford, Jason Werth, Cliff Lee, Josh Beckett, (possibly) Matt Cain, Mariano Rivera and (possibly) Aaron Harang next winter.

Red Ink: Cincinnati Reds Sign LHP Aroldis Chapman for $30 Million

2010-01-10T17:04:00.012-05:00

That's right. The hype, drooling, bickering and agent-firing is finally over. Cuban pitcher Aroldis Chapman has signed with the Cincinnati Reds for upwards of $30 million dollars and is committed for a reported 5 years.

First it was Yahoo! Sports' Jeff Passan, then came a tidal wave of articles. Here are some of them:

From The Washington Post

From TSN

From Bleacher Report

From NESN

From Boston.com

Although Chapman is just 22 years old, he is considered to be the most talented international free agent pitcher since Daisuke Matsuzaka and even more intriguing than the Athletics' Michael Ynoa--last year's most discussed international free agent. Chapman posses a running fastball that reaches 100 mph, and sits in the 93-97 mph range. The young lefty also offers a plus to plus-plus power slider that is often clocked in the mid 80s. While he is currently a two-pitch pitcher, Chapman is also developing a average/plus curveball and a passable changeup.

Stephen Strasburg is still heralded as the supreme talent among MLB pitching prospects with a running fastball that is consistently clocked between 94-98 mph, a devastating power curve, a plus changeup and plus command. However, Strasburg is often touted as a once-in-a-decade prospect, and draws comparisons to Josh Beckett, Mark Prior, Todd Van Poppel and other former elite pitching prospects. While Chapman doesn't feature the talent that Strasburg possesses, he does feature a ceiling higher than any young lefty pitcher in the minors. Considering Martin Perez, Madison Bumgarner, Brian Matusz and Casey Crosby are part of a crop of young, supremely-talented lefty starters, Chapman certainly has considerable work in his future if he wants to match these other elite talents.

5-years and $30 million is far more than the four-year, $15.1-million-dollar deal that Strasburg and agent Scott Boras struck with the Nationals last August. However, the Nationals held exclusive rights to Strasburg after drafting him first, overall, last June. Strasburg could have commanded $50+ million on the open marker--a point that Scott Boras had often reminded Nationals GM Mike Rizzo in the months leading up to Strasburg's August signing. Still, $30 million for a prospect--one that has little experience pitching in the United States-- seems like a ridiculous number. Maybe it is a ridiculous number, but for MLB teams, who consider young pitchers--especially those that throw left-handed-- a valuable and volatile commodity, $30- mill, for a possible future ACE (or closer) is relative bargain. A relative bargain when the money invested in IFA's like Kei Igawa and Hideki Irabu by the Yankees, or the slew of fruitless signings of 16 year old Domincans and Venezuelans, each for millions of dollars, come to mind. Talent like Chapman's and the attention that he will draw, for $30 million, just isn't half-bad.

Chapman and his agents Randy and Alan Hendricks, struck a deal with the Cincinnati Reds--a team that hadn't made an audible amount of noise throughout the past few months of bidding on the young pitcher. First, the Red Sox offered Chapman about $14.5 million to sign with Boston, a number that was turned down by Chapman and his previous agent, Edwin Mejia. Then, after a pitching session that was attended by representatives from the Yankees, Angels, Red Sox, Rangers, Reds, Athletics, Marlins and others, Chapman and his agents--once again--received a number of large offers. Chapman's pitching session wowed his audience with fastballs consistently in the mid-to-upper nineties, devastating sliders, and a 6'4", athletic build. His show dragged a number of teams that don't regularlry involve themselves in bidding wars for gold-plate free agents. Recently, the Marlins made the front page of the Miami Herald, with their statements about "opening their (small) wallets" to sign a talent like Chapman. The Marlins' front office offered the free agent about $16.5 million to play in Miami-- a city with a strong Cuban presence. Soon however, the Marlins were nudged out of the race by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The Angels were the front runners to sign Chapman until this late move by the Reds--who offered a number almost %20 higher than that offered by the next highest bidder.

More on Chapman later.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Baseball Chronicle's Top 300 Prospects by Position for 2010, will be available early this week. The handbook is free, and features the most in depth and accurate scouting and analysis offered for free on the web.

An even more polished version of TBC's handbook, featuring more, and more advanced scouting reports for all MLB organizations is available by contacting me at rskelley9@gmail.com with the subject "2010 Prospect Handbook." The handbook will be $16.95 with $4.00 for S & H, and will be mailed on January 18, 2009.

2010 System Audit: New York Yankees (Updated 1/12/10)

2009-12-10T23:44:00.027-05:00

MLB

The Yankees will come in to 2010 fresh off of a 2009 campaign that began with even further controversy surrounding A-ROD, rumblings surrounding Joe Girardi's future as manager, and a significant amount of folding from high-priced offseason signings Mark Teixeira, C.C. Sabathia and AJ Burnett when under pressure. But perhaps the cliche that best fits the 2009 Yankees is: "it doesn't matter how you start, it matters how you finish." The Yankees finished stronger than they had in nearly a decade, with a World Series victory over the 2008 Champion Phillies, and near MVP/CY Young misses by Derek Jeter, Mark Teixeira, C.C. Sabathia and Mariano Rivera. The core four-- Jeter, Jorge Posada, Andy Pettitte, and Mariano Rivera-- each added yet another ring to their collections (that now total at 15), and Joe Girardi went from reading New York Post headlines calling for his head, to sipping champagne and contemplating a replacement jersey number.

December has been a busy month for the Yankees' General Manager, Brian Cashman. Adding Curtis Granderson, Nick Johnson and potentially Johnny Damon or Mark DeRosa, to the batting order, while trading for Javier Vasquez and re-signing Andy Pettitte to shore up the Yankees rotation has been Cashman's version of a holiday gift to Yankeeland. Still, the money spent by Yankee brass this off-season hasn't even been in the ballpark of the 424 million they spent by last Christmas.

The Yankees head in to 2010 with few questions to answer, especially after trading for Curtis Granderson and securing veteran Andy Pettitte for one more year. However, their team isn't getting any younger, with Captain Derek Jeter set to turn 36 in June, a forty year old closer, a backstop considered geriatric in catcher-years, an aging Andy Pettitte, and AJ Burnett leaving his prime. Trading enigmatic but occasionally dominant Brian Bruney, workhorse lefty Phil Coke, and losing both Johnny Damon and World Series MVP Hideki Matsui could be a brutal proposition for the 2010 Yankees.

Rotation (B+)

LHP C.C. Sabathia (A)- 19-7, 3.25, 230 ip
RHP A.J. Burnett (B+)- 14-9, 4.06, 194 ip
LHP Andy Pettitte (B)- 14-8, 4.30, 195 ip
RHP Javier Vazquez (B)- 14-10, 4.30, 210 ip
RHP Joba Chamberlain (B)- 11-7, 3.90, 165 ip

Others: RHP Sergio Mitre (C), RHP Chad Gaudin (C), RHP Phil Hughes (B-), RHP Alfredo Aceves (C+)?

The Yankees' rotation will be headed by the league's most durable and dominant lefty, C.C. Sabathia. Over the past three seasons, Sabathia has average 241 innings between three different, clubs, pitching a soft (by his standards) 230 throughout the regular season in 2009. For most of the postseason, Sabathia was the team's MVP, and he was also a glaring crutch for a rotation that was often victim to A.J. Burnett's inconsistencies and Girardi's lack of confidence in Chamberlain. A.J. Burnett is set to be the right-handed portion of the Yankees' one-two punch. For much of the 2009 season Burnett was his dominant self, despite ending with a 4.04 ERA. Still Burnett's overall numbers were impressive when considering his home ballpark and the high-octane AL East, even if they weren't as good as those writing his paychecks had hoped. A.J.'s clubhouse presents and is dominant stretches made the decision to sign him a good one, but his 97 walks, 25 home runs allowed, age and injury history make him a dangerous arm to rely on as no. 2 starter in the AL East.

Veteran southpaw Andy Pettitte rebounded from a pedestrian 2008 with a 14-8 record, a 4.14 ERA and a memorable postseason performance that included a championship-clinching win. Pettitte will be 38 in June, and although his dedication to training and his handedness make his pitching age somewhere in his early 30s, relying on a pitcher closing in on 40 is never a safe move. Still, Pettitte's impeccable track record makes him one of the better third starters in the American League.

In the few days leading up to the 2009 Christmas Eve, the Yankees traded outfielder Melky Cabrera, lefty Mike Dunn and prospect Arodys Vizcaino for veteran righty Javier Vazquez and bullpen spare part Boone Logan. Vazquez had a career year with the Atlanta Braves in 2009, and showed that his struggles with New York in the second half of 2004 were an aberration. Vazquez will fit well in the third or fourth spot of the Yankees rotation and will hopefully provide 200 innings of stability. Joba Chamberlain opened 2009 on the wrong foot after making headlines with a DUI arrest, and ended on that same foot after being stricken from the rotation by the beginning of the playoffs. Although his body isn't preferable, and his stuff regressed as a starter, Chamberlain still sports a 92-98 mph 2-seamer and one of the best sliders in the game. If he can stay healthy and lower his walk rate, Chamberlain could be a top-tier no. 2 starter and the future front-end starter that the Yankees' rotation needs.

Before the Vasquez trade, the fifth spot in the Yanks' rotation was wide open. Now it looks like Chamberlian will take the ball every fifth day. Still, Phil Hughes, Sergio Mitre, Chad Gaudin and Alfredo Aceves will all provide some healthy competition for the fifth spot in Spring Training. Although it is highly doubtful that both Chamberlain and Hughes will end up in the Yankee bullpen next season, I do think it is time for the Yankees to start considering the possibility that both pitchers are future set-up men/closers. Of course, before they fully realize this possibility, one of the two pitchers should be traded for some infield and pitching prospects.

The Yankees are heading in to 2010 with both talent and depth. Their rotation is full of front-end starters, their lineup is now the most dangerous in the MLB, and their defense remains well-above average. Although their bullpen is questionable, Mariano Rivera and either Phil Hughes or Joba Chamberlain will provide late inning dominance, while a concoction of David Robertson, Damaso Marte, Alfredo Aceves, Sergio Mitre, Chad Gaudin, Boone Logan and Mark Melancon should be enough to get the job done in the middle innings.

Bullpen (B+)

CL Mariano Rivera (A+)- 2.00 36 Saves
SU Phil Hughes (A-)- 2.80, 100 ip
MRP David Robertson (B/B+)- 2.90, 60 ip
LHP Damaso Marte (C+/B-)- 3.90, 60 ip
MRP Mark Melancon (B-)- 4.20, 50 ip
LRP Alfredo Aceves (C+/B-)- 4.30, 90 ip

LHP Boone Logan (C+), RHP Sergio Mitre (C+), RHP Jonathan Albaladejo (C), RHP Chad Gaudin (C+), RHP Edwar Ramirez (C), RHP Romulo Sanchez (C-),

The Yankees bullpen has taken a liver-shiver so far this offseason after losing workhorse lefty Phil Coke and enigmatic-- but often dominant-- Brian Bruney. While Coke is prone to the long ball, he's durable, able to get lefties out and throws hard enough to pitch in the eighth inning. After getting in shape, Bruney turned in to an often- dominant fireballer, wielding 93-98 mph four-seamers and 85 mph sliders. He's a bulldog, and a guy I would have liked to keep, but his inconsistency and susceptibility to walks don't make the loss as bad as it looks on the surface.

Closer Mariano Rivera nearly pitched himself to a CY Young award during the regular season, posting an era below 1.8, and saving 44 of 46. His age (40) is a concern, but after a great season and an even more dominant post-season, Rivera looks like he'll continue to be the best closer in baseball for at least one more season. Phil Hughes' difficulty in the post season soured his dominant regular season performance in relief. The Yankees still believe he is a future member of a winning rotation, but his success as a setup guy and previous durability concerns may keep him in the bullpen. When Hughes is allowed to maximize his stuff in relief, his fastball reaches 96-97 mph and his curve/cutter combo are often devastating. David Robertson pitched well in the postseason after a promising 2009. Robertson posted a 3.30 era and a dominant 63 strikeouts in 45 innings of work. Although his fastball tops out a 94, and his curveball (although very good) isn't a wipeout pitch, Robertson's mix of stuff and knack for pitching make him one of the better young relievers in the AL.

Beyond Rivera, Hughes and Robertson, the Yankees have questions surrounding the rest of their 2010 bullpen. Alfredo Aceves won 10 games in long relief in 2009, but lacks the stuff to develop beyond a solid middle/long reliever and occasional spot-starter. Damaso Marte was injured for most of 2009, but pitched well in the postseason and has shown promise as a LOOGY. His decline as a reliable set up man is a concern, but with proper management, Marte will be useful. Young right hander, Mark Melancon was incorrectly touted as a future closer by Baseball America and many other scouting agencies prior to 2009, and proved that his future is closer to that of a middle reliever or a set up man with a shaky debut. Although Melancon has a bright future with his 90-94 mph fastball and mix of breaking stuff, his control and fastball velocity will keep him well short of Rivera's heir.

Although Chad Gaudin fits better in the bullpen, his high pitch counts, and susceptibility to walks make him somewhat useless despite his devastating slider-- he will probably spend time as a mop-up guy.

Young lefty
Boone Logan is coming off of another less-than-promising season in the MLB. Still, Logan's ability to get out lefties (.626 OPS allowed) makes his breaking stuff and low 90s fastball a nice tool for Girardi late in ballgames. Logans' poor command has gotten him in to trouble against right handed batters, so there's a good chance the Yankees send him back to AAA. Former Indy Leaguer and former MiLB Reliever of the Year Edwar Ramirez was booted from the Yankees' bullpen by June, finally showing that his straight 87 mph fastball, lousy slider and lack of command won't cut it in the AL East-- even with the best changeup I've ever seen. Ramirez could still be useful against lefties and serve as an extra arm. Jonathan Albaladejo, the product of the Tyler Clippard trade, still features a nice sinker/slider combo, but has had issues with command and consistency. Other arms like Romulo Sanchez, Zach Mcallister, Ivan Nova and Kevin Whelan could also provide depth if the Yankees don't add another arm.

Lineup (A)

SS Derek Jeter (A-) .320, 14 hr, 60 rbi
CF Curtis Granderson (B) .270, 30 hr, 90 rbi
1B Mark Teixeira (A) .290, 38 hr, 115 rbi
3B Alex Rodriguez (A) .290, 36 hr, 110 rbi
2B Robinson Cano (B+) .310, 24 hr, 90 rbi
C Jorge Posada (B) .280, 20 hr, 75 rbi
RF Nick Swisher (B-) .250, 24 hr, 75 rbi
DH Nick Johnson (B-) .290, 18 hr, .390 OBP
LF Brett Gardner (C+) .275, 4 hr, 60 runs, 35 sb

The Yankees lineup will be headed by Derek Jeter, who once again just missed both a batting title and an MVP Award. Still, Jeter won both a Gold Glove and a Silver Slugger, and the Yankee Captain will post his annually impressive line of table-setting numbers. Jeters' high BABIP and success at Yankee Stadium should keep his batting numbers high, but his loss of doubles (traded for homers) and historically inconsistent stolen base numbers may suppress his overall stat line in '10. Newly acquired Curtis Granderson will spend most of his time in center, and will probably be sandwiched between lefty-killer Derek Jeter and deep-threat Mark Teixeira in order to protect his glaring issues batting against southpaws. His power could produce 30-35 homers in Yankees stadium, and his speed will be useful for the run producers behind him. Mark Teixeira is the best fielding first baseman in both leagues, saving numerous errors from the rest of the infield and helping Jeter win his fourth Gold Glove. Teixeira's bat is a given, and his ability to get on base and avoid the strikeouts that plague most power hitters make him a nice bat in front of Rodriguez. A-Rod posted an OBP above .400 and reached 100 RBI despite missing the season's first month to recovery from hip surgery. Once again, Rodriguez will be a top 10 offensive threat in the MLB, and feature one of the best infield arms in baseball.

Robinson Cano has developed in to a batting title contender with the power to reach 25 homers and 45 doubles annually. His defense is often lax, but, although his range isn't that of Dustin Pedroia, Cano fields his position well. The only issues still plaguing Cano are his problems in the clutch and his troubles taking a walk. Jorge Posada rebounded from shoulder surgery surprisingly well, and continued to flash one of the best bats at his position. His age(39 next season) is a question mark however, and a good backup needs to replace Jose Molina to keep Posada healthy. Right fielder Nick Swisher is a player that will serve better when he gets a day off a week, evidenced by his susceptibility to wearing down when playing too often. Swisher was a valuable presence in the clubhouse, and his power bat and patient approach will keep his OPS around .850 despite his low batting average. Melky Cabrera led the Yankees in walk-off hits in 2009, and posted a solid season both at the plate and in the field. Unfortunately, Leche didn't seem to be much better than "solid" and another season with an OPS below .800, the Yankees sent Cabrera packing in the Vazquez trade. Therefore, as of this writing, Brett Gardner is the starting centerfielder for the Yankees in '10, while Granderson will slide over to left. Gardner is the Yankees' version of Scott Podsednik--but with a better arm-- and could steal 70 bases if given a full season of work.

As of right now, the Yankees are set to pencil in Nick Johnson as their designated hitter for 2010. With the Granderson trade, Damon's newfound issues against lefties and his silly contract demands have taken him off of the list of batters the Yankees are pursuing. Johnson doesn't offer the versatility the Yankees were supposedly looking for when they decided to ignore Hideki Matsui, but he does offer the ability to complement Granderson's trouble against lefties with an ability to take the ball to left field, and can give Mark Teixeira a break every few weeks without benching a top tier glove at first. Despite his injury history, Johnson is appealing for his age (just 31) and his ability to post an OBP near .400 annually. The acquisitions of Granderson and Johnson give the Yankees a solid improvement over the Damon/Matsui duo both offensively and defensively, while it also frees up about 12 million in payroll that could be spent on another bat or pitcher.

Bench (B-)

C Francisco Cervelli (C+)- .285 2 hr, 20 rbi
C Mike Rivera (C)- .255 3 hr, 15 rbi
OF Jamie Hoffman (C)- .240 2 hr, 15 rbi
INF Ramiro Pena (C)- .270 1 hr, 12 rbi

Other possibilities: 1B Juan Miranda (C+) .280 4 hr, 18 rbi

INF Kevin Russo (C), MI Eduardo Nunez (C-), MI Reegie Corona (C-)

Outside of Jamie Hoffman, the Yankees' bench is open for interviews. Signing someone like Kelly Johnson or Mark DeRosa (at the right price) would be nice insurance for the infield, while either could also spend time in the outfield as well. Catcher Francisco Cervelli has the arm and defense to easily supplant Jose Molina as primary, back-up catcher, and his bat--although lacking in power-- will actually be an upgrade over Molina's. The Yankees also signed former Brewers catcher Mike Rivera who is a serviceable defender and a decent bat. Outfielder Brett Gardner is one of the best defensive centerfielders in the AL, and his premium speed makes him a fantastic option off of the bench. The loss of Melky Cabrera will likely force Gardner into a starting role if the Yankees don't acquire a left fielder. Rule 5 pick Jamie Hoffman is another premium defender, and has a bat that could play well off of the Yankee bench. While Hoffman's big frame hasn't translated in to homerun power, his plus defense in right and left, and his good potential with the bat make him a nice pick. Infielder Ramiro Pena plays good infield defense, but his subpar bat may call for the Yankees to hire another spare part. Juan Miranda has the bat and patience to be a serviceable first baseman/DH on many MLB teams, but his lack of defensive prowess and the Yankees' surplus of talent will probably keep Miranda in AAA for most of 2010. Kevin Russo doesn't have the tools to be more than a bench player in the MLB, but his .326 batting average at Scranton in 2009, and ability to field second and third will give him MLB at bats in 2010. Eduardo Nunez and Reegie Corona are also serviceable infielders that could see time in 2010. Nunez, a former prospect, ranking as high as no. #6 in the Yankees organization for 2006, has the tools to be a plus defender and the ability to hit like the 2008 version of Cristian Guzman. Nunez's fielding is currently sloppy however.

Minors (B)

Top 20 Prospects

1.C Jesus Montero (A)
2. C Austin Romine (B+)
3. RHP Dellin Betances (B)
4. OF Slade Healthcott (B)
5. RHP Zach McAllister (B-)
6. C Gary Sanchez (B-)
7. RHP Manny Banuelos (B-)
8. OF Kelvin De Leon (B-)
9. RHP Jairo Heredia (B-)
10. C John Ryan "J.R." Murphy (B-)
11. RHP Mark Melancon (C+)
12. LHP Jeremy Bleich (C+)
13. RHP Andrew Brackman (C+)
14. 2B/3B David Adams (C)
15. 2B Corban Joseph (C)
16. RHP Jose A. Ramirez (C)
17. OF Jamie Hoffman (C)
18. SS Eduardo Nunez (C-)
19. OF Melky Mesa (C-)
20. RHP William Douglas "D.J." Mitchell (D+)

Others: RHP Christian Garcia, RHP Hector Noesi, INF Reegie Corona, INF Kevin Russo, CI Brandon Laird, OF Colin Curtis,

The Yankees' minor league system has graduated a considerable amount of talent over the past five years, including Chien Ming Wang, Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, Phil Coke, Melky Cabrera, Robinson Cano, David Robertson and others. Although their system isn't top-tier, it still features the top offensive talent among AL farm systems, Jesus Montero. Montero's bat has a future of 80 power on the 20-80 scale, and he could approach Miguel Cabrera/Carlos Delgado type numbers within the next few years. Although Montero's defense has often drawn criticism, he dropped 15 points of extra weight in 2009, and is now showing the potential to be a solid MLB catcher. In my opinion, Montero is the best prospect in the minors without the name "Strasburgh" on the back of his jersey.

Catcher Austin Romine, is another premium talent in the Yankees system. Son of former MLB player Kevin Romine, Austin lacks the offensive potential of Montero, but offers one of the best catching arms in the minors. Romine's troubles with patience and strikeouts at the plate, and defensive footwork are a bit of a red flag, but his offensive and defensive potential could still produce numbers better than the average MLB starting catcher. Dellin Betances, a victim of midseason forearm surgery in 2010, stands at 6'8" and wields a package that includes a 93-98 mph riding fastball and a nasty spike-curve. Once Betances fixes his delivery and improves his control, he could become a formidable MLB pitcher. It should be noted that Betances' stuff once put him in front of Joba Chamberlain on Baseball America's list of top prospects.

The Yankees' first round pick in last summer's draft, Zachary "Slade" Heathcott, is fresh from high school and is years away from the majors. Heathcott's power arm--capable of wielding fastballs at 96 mph-- and plus bat could play him as a pitcher OR as a centerfielder in the majors. Supposed makeup issues (which seem to have been overblown in pre-draft gossip) and a troubling injury history may ultimately slow Heathcott's development, but the Yankees seem confident that he will become a premium outfield prospect with work. Despite his consistently impressive numbers--including a league-leading ERA in 2010-- pitcher Zach McAllister hasn't ever been recognized as a top prospect due to his underwhelming stuff. McAllister's sinking fastball is his best pitch, and paired with his plus control could make him a solid 4-5 starter in the MLB. Pitcher Jairo Heredia is capable of becoming one of the top prospects in the AL with a few more years of development and instruction from Nardi Contreras. Heredia lost most of 2009 to injury, but his mid 90s fastball and developing breaking stuff could thrust him in to Baseball America's top 100 for 2011. Sixteen-year-old catcher Gary Sanchez received a hefty signing bonus--in the summer of '09--from the Yankees for his strong arm and batting potential. He isn't Jesus Montero, but Sanchez could develop in to a strong defensive catcher with 20+ homerun power.

Young Manny Banuelos made the futures game in 2010, and although he is under six feet tall, he has the polish and stuff to be a premium reliever in the majors. International free agent signee Kelvin De Leon has a high ceiling, but hasn't shown enough promise to be considered a top prospect...yet. While in college, young reliever, Mark Melancon, was considered to be a closer on par with Huston Street until Tommy John Surgery slowed his career. Melancon finally made his MLB debut in 2009, but failed to impress. His poise and stuff could make him an important part of the Yankee bullpen in 2010. Catcher John Ryan Murphy was another pick from last year's draft, and has the potential to be come an offense-first everyday catcher with work. Lefty Jeremy Bleich doesn't have the stuff to become more than a back-end starter or bullpen pitcher in the MLB, but his development will probably give him a look sometime this season.

Andrew Brackman received a contract worth nearly $10 million dollars (with his $3.55 million dollar signing bonus included) and has shown little promise after missing all of 2008 to TJ surgery and then stinking up A-ball in 2009. Brackman's 92-97 mph fastball, 6'11" height and strong frame, and his devastating breaking ball keep his ceiling high, but his control problems may cause him to fizzle out. Still, Brackman is another year removed from TJ, and will look to improve upon his 2009 numbers. Second baseman David Adams had a nice stint in the Florida State League in 2009, where he posted an ,858 OPS and flashed a solid glove at second. Adams has a nice approach at the plate and decent tools, and could become a nice prospect for the Yankees moving forward. Second baseman Corban Joseph hit .300 in the Sally League last season, and walked 49 times verses 61 strikeouts in 380 at bats. As Joseph adds more muscle to is frame, he could develop average power and challenge for an MLB starting job some day.

The MiLBY Short-Season Starting Pitcher of the Year, Yankees' Jose A. Ramirez, dominated the Gulf Coast League with a 91-96 mph fastball and plus command. The 19-year-old righty led the league in BAA, and was in the league's top 10 in a number of pitching categories including ERA (1.61), record (6-1), and WHIP (.84). In 67 innings, Ramirez struck out 57, while walking just 19 batters. Former NHL draft pick and current Yankee outfielder Jamie Hoffman was previously ranked as the premier fielding outfielder in the Dodgers' system by Baseball America, and has the athleticism and size to post a .750+ OPS in the MLB. Shortstop, Eduardo Nunez, reclaimed some of his former top prospect status by hitting .322 with a .782 OPS and 19 stolen bases with AA Trenton in 2009. Nunez needs to polish his glove however, after making 33 errors last season. Outfielder Melky Mesa continues to wow scouts with his awesome arm strength, power and plus speed, but also continues to struggle to make contact. If Mesa can refine his approach, he could become a valuable prospect for the Yankees. Righty D.J. Mitchell is a sinkerballer that gets by with a 2-seamer and plus control. Mitchell won't ever be an ace, but could develop in to another Zach Mcallister or Jake Westbrook.

Grand Theft: Yankees Get Curtis Granderson from Tigers

2009-12-08T21:50:00.009-05:00

Brian Cashman stunned the baseball world Monday night, when he revealed that he was en route to closing a deal with the Tigers and Diamondbacks that put Curtis Granderson in pinstripes. Immediately, every good Yankee fan, wraught with glee, took a moment catch their breathe. In that moment images of Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes and Jesus Montero in another uniform started to sour their excitement over the trade. But then, moments later, when each of those fans realized that Curtis Granderson would be donning pinstripes for the miniscule price of Ian Kennedy, Phil Coke, and Austin Jackson, their eager aniticipation for 2010 resumed.

After years of disappointment spurring from 200 million dollar payrolls worth of faded, broken, overpriced and arrogant stars like Kevin Brown, Gary Sheffield, Randy Johnson and Carl Pavano, the Yankees' front office has been determined to extend it's recent streak of good trades and signings. Transactions that netted them C.C. Sabathia, Mark Teixeira, A.J. Burnett, Nick Swisher and a shipment of shiny, new, diamond-studded 2009 World Series rings. This latest trade for Curtis Granderson, is an eager attempt at securing a shipment of 2010 World Series rings, and a vivid illustration of how good a General Manager Brian Cashman can be when given some breathing room.

Cashman has long been booed by Yankees fans and the baseball world for his insufferable attempts at exhausting the Yankees near-infinite revenue on overpriced, underachieving and often, downright dispicable players, in meager hopes of returning the franchise to the World Series. Now that the geriatric Steinbrenner has finally quieted down, and has allowed Cashman to use the franchises' money wisely, the Yankees are looking better than ever.

The winners of the three way trade: 1st Place, Yankees, 2nd place, Tigers, last place, Diamondbacks. The Yankees landed Granderson for a package of players that certainly won't be missed in New York. Trading Ian Kennedy for anything of value is sheer brilliance by the Yankees' Brass. Kennedy barely has the stuff to pitch in Beer League softball, much less the MLB. 85 mph fastballs, rolling curveballs in the dirt, and eye-level vulcan changeups should be a challenge for the Diamondbacks to use in a rotation that needs some stability--especially when half of Kennedy's games will be played in Arizona's unforgiving dry air. Kennedy's attitude won't be missed in the Yankees clubhouse either.

Trading Phil Coke is far more painful for the 2010 Yankees than trading Ian Kennedy, but that's not saying very much. Coke was a useful and durable arm for Girardi's bullpen in 2009, and his ability to get out good lefties certainly helped the Yankees toward the World Series. But Coke's lack of a sharp breaking ball, and his low ceiling make him expendable--even if he is a durable lefty and is a gamer.

Austin Jackson, arguably the Yankees top prospect (in my view he's far behind Jesus Montero) was the blue chip Detroit needed in return for Granderson. Although Jackson's baseball intellect is sub-par--striking out far too much, walking little and exercising average baserunning abilities despite top-flight speed-- he has the tools to win a Gold Glove in center, and could hit in the realm of .275-.280 with 15 homeruns and 20 stolen bases once he gets comfortable in the majors. Frankly, it's unlikely that he'll every be more than a decent everyday center fielder.

So, for very little, the Yankees netted a very good outfielder. King Curtis does have his shortcomings however. First of all, he's coming off a year where he hit .249, and his career batting average against lefties is barely .210. He plays good defense, but isn't fabulous, and will probably spend far more time in left than in center. Still, if the Yankees can land a lefty-mashing right-handed outfielder, or make use of Melky Cabrera, then they have a relatively cheap All-Star caliber outfielder under their control for at least three seasons. Granderson's power will transfer well to Yankee stadium, so netting an outfielder that will easily hit 25-30 homers annually is worthy of a pat-on-the-back for Brian Cashman.

Second Place

The Tigers did a decent job of dumping fairly pricey players for cheaper talent, with this trade. Max Scherzer is fragile, and may end up in the bullpen, but the Tigers will have control over Scherzer for a half-decade. Max has top-tier stuff, and if he can stay healthy, he could be a cheap AJ Burnett, or a lesser Jon Papelbon.

Dan Schlereth and Phil Coke are both useful lefties in the bullpen. Both pitchers throw hard, with Coke' average fastballs at about 92 mph, and Schlereth sporting the ability to hit 97-100 mph. Dan Schlereth, the son of former NFL meathead Mark Schlereth, could be a future closer if he can harness his control. Coke is durable, and if he can avoid the long ball in his now spacious homepark, facing AL Central opponents, he could be a top-tier lefty middle reliever and palatable spot starter.

Austin Jackson won't be a star, but he will be a cheap replacement for Granderson in center. Jackson's defensive potential is far beyond that of Granderson's, but his lesser power and lackluster approach at the plate keep the possibility of his future as a 4th outfielder open. If he reaches enough of his potential, Jackson could be a top fielder with a David DeJesus bat and Curtis Granderson speed.

The Loser

The Diamonbacks made some serious mistakes this offseason. First, they traded for Aaron Heilman, an overpriced choke artist with marginal value in the pen. Then, they traded away one of their most valuable pitching talents in Max Scherzer, for a pitcher that may be on the verge of busting. Scherzer had his drawbacks, true, but his stuff gave him the ability to be a top starter or top closer--even in Arizona. Scherzer could have gotten them much more in return, and now they lost a cheap, productive arm.

Edwin Jackson has shown flashes of brilliance with his 95-96 mph fastball, but his lack of control and polish got him catapulted out of Tampa Bay. He pitched well in Detroit for the first half of 2009, and was on the fast track to a Cy Young Award when he pulled a midseason 180 and started stinking up the mound. Pitching in Arizona, and calling a bandbox his new home park should send him right back to the stat lines he produced in Tampa.

Ian Kennedy, the other arm that Arizona received in return for Scherzer has previously been touted as a top pitching prospect on par with Phil Hughes and Joba Chamberlain. He's not. I tried my best to like Kennedy after his promising 2007 debut. After all, he had a nice Irish name, a USC Pedigree and scouting reports that made him sound like the second coming of Greg Maddux or Mike Mussina. Watching him for 2+ seasons has driven this point home though, Ian Kennedy stinks, and he won't be a decent MLB starter, much less a Hall of Famer. Scouting reports claiming that Kennedy threw 92 mph fastballs were bogus, and his one above average pitch is his vulcan change which he's going to need to live off of, if he wants to survive for a few more years in the majors. Kennedy's fastball is usually clocked in the 86-88 mph range, hitting 90mph just a little bit more often than it hits 85. He has good control of the pitch when he throws it at MiLB speed, but lousy control when he dials it up to a passable MLB velocity. It's also straight. Kennedy's curveball could be passable with work, but currently it doesn't have a sharp enough break to strike out the average MLB batter.

Kennedy's control had previously been touted as plus to plus-plus, but he hasn't lived up to this aspect of his scouting reports either. When using his AAA repetoire, he does have good control, but its far too hittable. His lack of stuff forces him to over throw and pitch around every batter he faces, resulting in high pitch counts and high WHIP numbers. Overall, Kennedy has an outside shot of becoming Denny Neagle with some serious development, but its is becoming more and more likely that he's nothing more than a fringe player.

So, overall, the Yankees made a fantastic trade, while the Tigers didn't realize anything spectacular from trading Granderson and Jackson, but manage to accomplish some of their mission for 2010. The Diamondbacks are the clearcut losers here, and likely gave up one of the few promising young players they have in exchange for a pitcher that is on the verge of becoming a serious bust.

2010 All-Prospect Team

2009-11-30T17:12:00.015-05:00

Please see The Baseball Chronicle's "2010 TOP 200 Prospects" List and Rankings posted prior to these past three articles. Top 200 Prospects can be accessed via archives on the right side of the page-- the Top 200 Prospects are featured in the first three posts of November 2009.

The following teams are comprised of the most well-rounded, athletic and major-league-ready prospects currently in the minors. The first team is a list of the most talented and polished MiLB players available, while the "Futures" roster is a list of younger prospects with the highest ceilings and strongest chances of reaching them.

Lineup

CF- Desmond Jennings
C- Buster Posey
RF- Jason Heyward
3B- Pedro Alvarez
DH- Jesus Montero
LF-Michael Taylor
1B- Justin Smoak
SS-Reid Brignac
2B-Starlin Castro

The Rays' Desmond Jennings would lead off with his plus-plus baserunning and speed, and would offer good range in center. Buster Posey would be a nice 2 hitter with his ability to make contact and advanced two-strike approach. Posey has enough speed to go first-to-third rather easily and will be one of the few MLB catchers to not clog the basepaths. Ultimate prospect, the A-T-L's Jason Heyward, has the best mix of tools on the roster. Heyward features the power to hit cleanup, the bat to hit at the top of the order and the speed to distract pitchers while on the base-paths. The Pirates' Pedro Alvarez would employ his monster bat and bat clean-up, while playing a decent third base. Montero would be in the five hole to utilize his light-tower power and advanced bat. Taylor would be a great 6 hitter with his ability to make contact and possibly steal 10-20 bases annually. Smoak would hit 7th, using a polished bat and an advanced glove in the field to contribute. Rays infielder, Reid Brignac would start at shortstop as he has developed in to being the best all-around shortstop in the minors. Brignac isn't spectacular, but his combination of a nice glove and the ability to hit a tick below .300 with 12-18 home runs annually, is better than the alternative offers from a weak crop of young middle-infielders. Cubs' shortstop, Starlin Castro, would round out the order at second base- an area that would utilize his range and would soften the blow of his strong-but-wild throws. His speed and ability to make contact could hit 2 at the top of the order.

Bench
C- Carlos Santana
OF-Fernando Martinez
OF- Domonic Brown
Util-Todd Frazier
INF-Alcides Escobar

Carlos Santana has the ability to be a very good MLB starting catcher with the stick, and has the arm to keep base-runners honest. Fernando Martinez has showed flashes of his supposed brilliance--primarily in a short 2009 stint in AAA, and could fill in at all three outfield positions and offer advanced power. Domonic Brown needs to develop more power to be a true top-prospect, but has the size and tools to be Brian Jordan. Todd Frazier is position-less, but has the tools and versatility to play everywhere on the diamond besides pitcher and catcher. Alcides Escobar is the most defensively advanced shortstop in the minors, and has enough speed to make up for his powerless and patience-lacking game at the plate.

Rotation
RHP- Stephen Strasburg
RHP- Neftali Feliz
RHP- Wade Davis
LHP- Brian Matusz
RHP- Aaron Crow

Nationals' pitcher Stephen Strasburg has the fastball and power-slider to be the best pitcher in the game. Neftali Feliz dazzled fans in Arlington last summer with his 100mph fastball and has the ability to be an ace very soon. Wade Davis is the most polished pitcher on this last (besides Strasburg) and has the fastball and curve to be a tick behind Josh Beckett. Brian Matusz has an unspectacular fastball but has the changeup, curve and control to be the AL's version of Cole Hamels. Aaron Crow is the second oldest player in the rotation but with the least amount of experience playing professionally. Still, Crow has proven a lot against metal bats in college and has the fastball/slider combo to be the middle portion of a 1-2-3 punch with Greinke and Meche.

Bullpen
CL- Aroldis Chapman
SU-Drew Storen
SU- Phillippe Aumont
MR- Dan Runzler
MR- Chris Withrow
LHP- Christian Friedrich
LHP- John Gaub

Slotting Chapman in at Closer is a bold move considering his serious lack of experience playing professionally in the US, but Chapman's 94-98 mph fastball and good breaking stuff (from the left side) make him seriously close to Billy Wagner in ability. Drew Storen doesn't quite have the heat to be a top-tier closer, but does have an intelligent approach and a very good slider. Aumont is a bit of a mystery, but since being converted to relief, seems to have retained the ceiling he had as a younger starter. Dodgers' Chris Withrow has a fastball that can sniff 100mph but lacks the control to be a 6 inning starter in the MLB. Dan Runzler is one of the most developed relievers in the minors and could offer the Giants an alternative to Brian Wilson in 2010. Christian Friedrich will be a starter in the majors, but his fantastic curveball will give him the ability to dominate lefties at every level. John Gaub, a former 641st overall pick and shoulder surgery survivor, has been nothing short of spectacular throughout his 3 year career in the minors. A young lefty in the Cubs system, Gaub has struck out 184 in 128 career innings and has developed a nasty slider to pair with his 90-94 mph fastball.

Manager- "Super" Joe McEwing

"Super Joe" spent much of his career filling the utility role for a variety of teams including the Mets and Cardinals. His blue-collar work ethic and high-energy approach to playing the game make him both a favorite of his players and of a number of scouts at Baseball America. After assuming a new job as hitting coach with the Charlotte Knights in 2008, Super Joe took over as manager for the Winston-Salem Dash in 2009 and ended up being named the Top Managerial Prospect in the South Atlantic League by Baseball America by season's end. His grit and dedication to practice didn't push his career OPS over .660, but it did make him the anti-Allen Iverson in a number of ways--and for young players that actually need practice, that will mean a lot.

Futures Team

Lineup

LF- Ryan Westmoreland
2B- Dustin Ackley
CF-Donovan Tate
RF- Michael Stanton
DH- Chris Carter
1B- Mike Moustakas
C- Derek Norris
3B-Matt Dominguez
SS- Jose Iglesias

Red Sox outfielder Ryan Westmoreland has the tools to be Grady Sizemore as long as he can avoid the array injuries that kept him at DH in 2009. The no. 2 overall pick in the 2009 MLB Draft, Dustin Ackley, has one of the most advanced bats in the minors but with such a slight frame may never develop the power to hit more than 15-20 home runs in the MLB. Ackley is being converted to a second baseman by the Mariners, and his plus speed, range and athleticism should keep him there. The Padres' Donovan Tate has one of the highest ceilings in the minors. Tate has the speed to steal 40 bases annually in the MLB (maybe 50-60) and the bat to hit 40 homeruns (with necessary work on his bat control). The young outfielder also has the range and arm to win multiple Gold Gloves. Marlins RF Michael Stanton has the most impressive homerun power currently in the minors, and if he can cut down on the strikeouts and improve his patience, he could easily surpass his Jermaine Dye comparisons. Oakland's Chris "Vernon" Carter has the raw power to be an impressive power threat on a team in dire need of one. Carters arm is plus, but his other defensive tools are poor. The Royals' Mike Moustakas has the glove to stay at third, but could be an advanced first baseman in the MLB. Moustakas has disappointed thus far, (some speculating his underachieving is due to durability issues and a pull-happy batting approach) but most scouts still firmly believe that he has a very good chance at developing in to a star ballplayer. The Nationals' Derek Norris has shown patience beyond his years, and after a breakout 2009, Norris has convinced many at Baseball America that he could be the long term answer to Jesus Flores' shoulder woes. The Marlins Matt Dominguez is regularly compared to a young Mike Lowell, featuring one of the best gloves at 3B in the minors and the power to hit 30 homers in the MLB. Red Sox shortstop Jose Iglesias is often compared to Orlando Cabrera and has the glove to be a top defensive infielder in the AL.

Bench
C/3B- Will Myers
Util- Brett Lawrie
MI- Tim Beckham
OF- Aaron Hicks
CI/OF- James Darnell

Catcher and third baseman Will Myers can throw a low 90's fastball and is already ranked as the no.1 prospect in the Pioneer League by Baseball America for 2010. Brett Lawrie has the forearms and hands to hit near .300 and mash 20-30 homeruns in the MLB if he continue to develop in the minors throughout the next few years. Lawrie is lauded for his advanced approach at the plate and athleticism, but still has yet to secure and develop a defensive position that he could hold in the MLB. Shortstop Tim Beckham has the tools of a no.1 pick (hence the Rays' drafting him no.1 last year), but has shown little thus far. Aaron Hicks can throw a 98 mph fastball and has the tools and future of an MLB gold glover. His bat hasn't showed as much promise, but still projects to be MLB-caliber. James Darnell was one of the poorest fielding third baseman in the minors in 2009, but his power, bat, patience and athleticism have made him a top prospect.

Rotation
LHP- Martin Perez
LHP- Madison Bumgarner
RHP- Jarrod Parker
RHP- Julio Teheran
LHP- Casey Crosby

With his 94 mph fastball and developing circle-change, the Rangers' Martin Perez has drawn some Johan Santana comparisons lately. Madison Bumgarner has the control and polish of an MLB Ace already, but needs to develop the secondary stuff and find the velocity that he has recently lost on his fastball if he wants to fulfill the Giants' hopes of his future as a true MLB ace. The Diamondbacks' Jarrod Parker is set to recover from Tommy John surgery for all of 2010, but still has the ability and ceiling of a top-tier starter. The young (and scrawny) Julio Teheran has a hard fastball and a nice changeup, and has developed into an intriguing and often dominating pitcher. Lefty Casey Crosby has come back from TJ surgery with a mid 90s fastball and is poised to become a dominant pitcher in the MLB.

CL- Tanner Scheppers
SU- Kyle Drabek
SU-Jake Arrieta
MR- Jason Knapp
MR- Alex White
LHP-Jake McGee

If Tanner Scheppers can avoid the shoulder woes that have cost him millions of dollars thus far into his career, he could wield his power fastball and impressive breaking stuff to become a back-of-the-bullpen force, or a dominant starter. Kyle Drabek has one of the best breaking balls in the minors, and has a low-to-mid nineties fastball. Orioles Jake Arrieta has a good, hard, fastball but his lack of another plus pitch could land him in the bullpen. Indians' Jason Knapp has a power mid-to-high nineties fastball and an intimidating frame, but conditioning issues might send him to the bullpen within the next few years. If Knapp can't gain control of his body, he could still develop in to a closer or set-up man. Alex White is an impressive young pitcher and has the secondary stuff to be middle of the rotation starter on a contender in the MLB. Lefty Jake McGee returned from TJ surgery by the end of the 2009 season, and showed that his 93-95 mph fastball and plus to plus-plus secondary stuff still has enough on it to make him a closer or a good starter in the MLB.

The Baseball Chronicle's Top American League Fielders 2009

2009-11-26T20:35:00.009-05:00

Please view my Top Prospects 2009 1-200, posted earlier in November 2009.

The American League players to take home Gold Gloves this year were as follows:

C: Joe Mauer, Twins
1B: Mark Teixeira, Yankees
2B: Placido Polanco, Tigers
3B: Evan Longoria, Rays
SS: Derek Jeter, Yankees
OF: Torii Hunter, Angels
OF: Adam Jones, Orioles
OF: Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners
P: Mark Buehrle, White Sox

While many of the above players deserved their Gold Gloves, many earned them due to popularity, an exciting style of defensive play, and possibly as a measure to bring some light to their hapless small-market/struggling team, coming off of a dismal 2009 campaign where fans had little to be happy about. Below is a The Baseball Chronicle's list to of top defensive players in the American League. Each player is judged only upon their defensive prowess--not their popularity, career or value as a marketing tool for a lemon of a product.

Catcher: Gerald Laird, Detroit Tigers- In my opinion, Joe Mauer is the most complete and valuable player in both leagues, and his strong arm and game calling ability would put him atop the league in most years. But the fact is, Mauer barely caught 2/3 of the season, his CS% was down due to a bunch of soft tossers, and he allowed 9 passed balls. Laird in comparison, gave up 9 passed balls in 150 more innings of work, had a higher fielding percentage and thew out nearly 42% of runners attempting to steal.

First Base: Mark Teixeira, New York Yankees- Teixeira earned his Gold Glove and was an easy pick. Although he wasn't atop the league in UZR, his fielding percentage was untouchable, and his sparkling glove, stretch and turn-around ballet tag was visual poetry for Yankees fans watching the playoffs. Jeter, A-Rod and Cano all benefitted subtantially from Teixeira's glove; Jeter saw his errors lop in nearly in half from to just 8 in 2009, giving him the highest fielder percentage of any shortstop in the AL. A-Rod had his best fielding year since converting to third and Robinso Cano saw his non-chalant three-hopper qualify for an out far more often than it did during the Giambi administration.

Second Base: Placido Polanco, Detroit Tigers- Dustin Pedroia is the best fielding second baseman in the AL, but Placido Polanco simply outplayed him with the glove in 2009. Polanco led the AL in UZR, made a miniscule 2 errors in 1289.1 innings, exhibited range behind only Pedroia and Ian Kinsler, and was the best statistically the best at the double play.

Third Base: Evan Longoria, Tampa Bay Rays- Longoria is simply the best defensive third baseman in the AL. The Angels' Chone Figgins was a close second due to his superior range, but Longoria is the most complete package-- with an A-Rod Arm, plus-range and the most reliable glove in the AL.

Shortstop: Elvis Andrus, Texas Rangers- Derek Jeter is my favorite player, and has been since I began watching baseball nearly a decade-and-a-half ago-- and his glove this year was one of the better ones in the MLB. But, Jeter's AL-leading UZR was a product of his unusually high fielding percentage, not a newfound range, arm or accuracy at 35 years old. Derek was solid, but Mark Teixeira really won two gold gloves in 2009--one for himself and one for Derek. Andrus had the best range in the American League, turned 20 more double plays in 5 less games, and showed flashes of Rey Ordonez with his footwork and arm deep in the hole. The one blemish on Andrus was his 22 errors, but with Chris Davis and Hank Blalock splitting time at first, even Ray Sanchez would've made a handful of additional errors.

Outfield: Franklin Gutierrez, Nelson Cruz, Carl Crawford- Tori Hunter once again took home an undeserved Gold Glove. Hunter's mediocre play in center is annually overlooked because of a few ESPN highlight reals in which he hops the wall and snatches a ball headed for the rocks. ACTA Sports featured an article on this very subject, and emphasized the fact that Tori Hunter is in the middle of the league in runs saved every season. The Mariners' Franklin Gutierrez was arguably the best outfielder in the MLB in 2009, featuring the highest UZR (29.1) of any player at any position in either league. While Tori Hunter is lauded for his homerun snatches, Gutierrez even outmatched Hunter in that area as well--stealing one more home run than Hunter by season's end. Gutierrez's package of range, arm and route-running are the best in the MLB, period.

Ichiro Suzuki added one more Gold Glove to his trophy case, and deservedly so. Suzuki still features a cannon, and base-runners rarely test it anymore, resulting in a large amount of runs-saved every season. Suzuki was third in the AL with 11.1 runs saved and third amoung AL right-fielders in UZR. However, Nelson Cruz played slghtly better than Ichiro in 2009, posting a better UZR, saving more runs with his arm, posting an equivalent fielding percentage and doing it in on a team sans Endy Chavez and Frank Gutierrez.

Carl Crawford doesn't have the arm that Nelson Cruz or Adam Jones has, but his range and improved route-running have boosted him up to third among AL-outfielders in UZR. Crawford's style of play is fun to watch, but his value of play is even greater. Crawford once again had run-saving range behind only Franky Gutierrez and Ryan Sweeney, and exhibited an accurate arm in left and center.

Ryan Sweeney is a guy that has been overlooked for his defense thus far in his career. Sweeney has proven to be a fairly complete package--albeit with little power-- mixing a .290ish batting average, doubles power and outfield defense that rated (statistically) second only to Gutierrez in the AL in 2009. Sweeney's arm is strong, and although his range isn't a match for Grady Sizemore, his routes to drifting and fading fly-balls are some of the best in the game.

Pitcher: Mark Buerhle, Chicago White Sox- Not only was Buerhle the most reliable pitcher with the glove in 2009, but he also managed to lead the American League in pickoffs with 8 (2 more than Andy Pettitte's 6). Buerhle's defense is valuable, and his pick-off move--a tick lesser than Pettitte's- keeps even the quickest of baserunners leaning towards first.

Meet Joe Black: Greg Desme Wins 2009 Joe Black AFL MVP Award

2009-11-23T20:00:00.003-05:00

Please read my Top 200 MLB Prospects for 2010 sections, below this article.

This past week, Oakland Atletics prospect and Phoenix Desert Dogs outfielder Gregory "Grant" Desme was bestowed with the 2010 Joe Black MVP Award for his fantastic performance throughout five weeks in the Arizona Fall League. Desme led the league in homeruns (11) and extra based hits (16), while coming in second in RBIs (27), runs scored (30) and OPS (1.079). Desme's 11 home runs were third most over the past five seasons, behind only Brandon Wood's 14 dingers (the AFL record) in 2005 and Tyler Flowers' 12 in 2008. Desme also nearly doubled the second highest number of homers--Brandon Laird's and Corey Brown's 6.

Desme, a second round pick from the 2007 draft, emerged as solid prospect in 2009 after spending much of the past two seasons in the trainer's room and in a hospital bed recovering from shoulder surgery and a broken wrist. This past season, Grant Desme was the only player in the minors to hit at least thirty home runs and steal at least thirty bases. Spending the season in the Midwest League and California League, the twenty-three year-old totaled 31 home runs, 40 total bases (he was caught just 5 times) and posted an OPS of .933 while striking out 148 times in 486 at bats. Desme has netted positive reviews from scouts for his work ethic, quiet demeanor and power, receiving red pen only for his trouble with strikeouts and the few holes in his swing. Although Desme stole 40 bases, most scouts are in a consensus that his speed will just be above-average at the MLB level--maybe 20 stolen bases over a full season--and his baserunning instincts and first-to-third speed are what swiped 40 bases.

A shortstop and centerfielder in college at San Diego State and then California Polytech, Desme has always shown great bat speed. The young slugger could certainly hit 20-25 homeruns in the MLB annually-- if all goes according to plan development-wise. His bat control is solid, but lags considerably behind his bat speed and will have to improve if he wants to hit near .280 and strike out less than 25% of the time in the MLB. His defense is above average, and although he profiles best in left field, he's very capable of playing center and has the abilities to be a backup at second or third base in the MLB. With another year's worth of healing time for his labrum and wrist, Desme could certainly improve upon his impressive 2009 numbers and will eventually find himself playing at least semi-regularly in the MLB. He's already proven that he can handle the top young pitchers in the minors with his gaudy AFL performance, so with a few more years of seasoning, Desme could--perhaps--be a legitimate 20-20 threat and solid outfielder in the MLB. His stolen base numbers will be a bit behind, but his MLB play and stats could be a lot like Eric Byrnes'.

Although AFL numbers can often be misleading, with past MVP's and league standouts being Minor League burnouts like Eric Duncan and Chris Shelton, some of the best young players have used the AFL to make a name for themselves-- players like the 2008 MVP Tommy Hanson, and 2008 draft pick Gordon Beckham. Evan Longoria, Ryan Braun and Yunel Escobar were other young standout batters that have previously lit up the AFL.

Other 2009 AFL standouts were Cubs shortstop Starlin Castro, White Sox third baseman Brent Morel, Yankees third baseman Brandon Laird, Reds outfielder Chris Heisey, Nationals pitchers Drew Storen and Stephen Strasburg, and Pirates outfielder Jose Tabata. Strasburg led the league in wins with 4, and outside of one ERA-inflating shelling, dominated the AFL. Ignoring his second appearance, Strasburg struck out 19 in 16.1 innings and gave up just two runs in that four-game span. Storen was tied for the league lead in ERA (.66) and struck out 13 and went a perfect 4/4 in save opportunities in 13 innings of work. The youngest player of the AFL leaders, Starlin Castro, flashed a slick glove at short and was third in stolen bases (9) and sixth in batting average (.376). White Sox prospect, Brent Morel, also flashed a nice glove, playing his sparkling defense while leading the league in batting average (.435) over 62 at bats. The biggest surprise of the above players was Yankees third base prospect, Brandon Laird--younger brother of Gerald Laird. The young third baseman was tied for second place in home runs and received a handful of votes for the Joe Black MVP Award.

Top 200 MLB Prospects for 2010: 51-100

2009-11-17T07:30:00.025-05:00

2010 Top Prospects 1-50 Are Below this Post.

Click on the first Image below to see 2010 Top Prospects 51-79

Click on the below image to see 2010 Top Prospects 79-100

51-60. Most of the players listed in this range profile better as future MLB regulars than super stars. Donavan Tate doesn't fit this description. The Padres' third overall pick of the 2009 Amateur Draft was a very intelligent one. Tate has the speed and athletic prowess to be a Gold Glove centerfielder, and steal 30-40 bases annually. Tate has bat that could produce a .300 average some day, but more importantly 30-40 homers ("Taters") in his prime. Tate looks like he could be a future Grady Sizemore. Eric Hosmer had Lasic surgery this off-season and his hoping (along with the Royals management that signed him to the highest bonus in team history) that his bat will return for 2010. Hosmer has the power potential of Mark Teixeira, but needs considerable development. The Tigers' 2007 5th round pick, lefty Casey Crosby returned from Tommy John surgery throwing a 93-98 mph fastball and posted a 2.41 era with 117 k's through 104 innings in the Midwest League. His control needs more refining. Jake Arrieta spots his 91-95 mph heat well but has yet to develop a second MLB plus pitch, and hasn't shown an MLB approach to pitching. Jaff Decker, the 5'10" chubby left fielder has a sweet swing that could lead him to a .300 average in the MLB some day. However, is well below average speed, soft body and short stature keep scouts wary. The Tigers' Jake Turner is just 18, but has advanced breaking stuff and a fastball that could sit in the mid 90s with a few years of growth and development. Brett Lawrie the highest MLB draft pick (15th in '08) out of Canada in history, was moved from catcher to second base in 2009 and showed a glove that could be MLB average or slightly better some day. His strong hands/forearms give him superior bat control and his patient approach is beyond his years. With work he could develop in to an .800 MLB OPS rather easily. The Reds' Todd Frazier is still without a position . His bat isn't elite but he has the ability to stroke a near .300 average with 20 homers and 40 doubles in his MLB prime. He has the arm for third base, and the footwork for second but could end up being a Chase Headley in left field. Alex White the Indians' 2009 pick out of UNC has a plus-plus splitter and a riding fastball that sits in the 90-93 range (toping out at 95). His control needs work, and developing a change or improving his slider needs to happen before he can be considered a top pitching prospect. Cubs' shortstop Starlin Castro was ranked as the Cubs' top prospect in Baseball America's 2010 organizational rankings. At just 19 years old Castro made the 2009 MLB Futures game and was promoted to the Southern League by mid-season. Castro hit a combined .300, stole 28 bases and ripped 32 XBH's in 469 at bats. And although he did make 39 errors playing short, he was still considered the top fielding shortstop in the Florida State and Southern Leagues. His advocates consider him to be a future Tony Fernandez, with some even comparing his abilities to Derek Jeter.

61-70. Stanford alumnus, and Astros catching prospect Jason Castro doesn't have a top-tier ceiling, but his approach, intelligence and dedication have made him one of the top catching prospects in the game. In his first full season in the minors, Castro posted a .300 average and an .826 OPS between the California and Texas Leagues. He also threw out 45% of base stealers. Mets shortstop Wilmer Flores and Royals third baseman Mike Moustakas both had forgettable 2009 seasons after being heralded as five star prospects by Baseball Prospectus and Baseball America. Both players will probably play an average to above average 3rd base in the future, and the younger Wilmer Flores has the better shot of becoming a big league regular at this point. Moustakas has been too aggressive at the plate and hasn't developed opposite field power yet-- if he can refine his approach he could still be an above average MLB hitter. Indians prospect Jason Knapp has struggled with shoulder problems lately, and this makes the trade for Cliff Lee look even better for the Phillies. If he can stay healthy however, the 6'5" Knapp could become an MLB ace or closer with his 94-98 mph fastball and hard slider. His control, delivery and secondary stuff all need work, and at 19 years old, he has plenty of time to work on them. Kyle Gibson was a steal for the Twins in the 2009 draft, falling into their laps because of a forearm stress fracture. Gibson's slider, changeup and control are all MLB plus, and his fastball can reach 92-93 mph often. Despite the injury, Gibson has the ability to reach the MLB quickly. Ike Davis finally started hitting homeruns in 2009 and then proceeded tear apart the Eastern League over the summer. Davis posted a .951 OPS with Binghampton and had 13 homers and 14 doubles in just 207 at bats. He strikes out a bit much, but as he adds muscle to his lean 6'5" frame, he could develop in to an impact MLB bat as well as a Gold Glove winner at first. Austin Jackson hit .300 with Scranton (AAA) in 2009 but hit just 4 home runs and struck out 123 tims (vs. just 40 walks) in 504 at bats. Jackson did however hit 9 triples, steal 24 bases and continue to develop toward one of the best defensive centerfielders in the minors. His athleticism keep him on this list, but his poor plate discipline, lack of power and less-than-elite speed keep his ceiling to MLB average. Splitting the season bewteen the Midwest and California Leagues, Padres' 3rd baseman James Darnell posted a ridiculous .960 OPS, hitting .311 and walloping 20 home runs, 35 doubles and four triples in just 457 at bats. Darnell is also lauded for his plate discipline, walking 87 times (vs. 89 k's) in '09. Despite his strong arm and plus range, Darnell is a poor fielder and needs to improve his hands considerably or he will end up as a corner outfielder. Drew Storen was considered by most to be an affordable, "safety pick" by the Nationals in the 2009 draft, but ended up becoming a top prospect by summers end after a dominating performance in the Eastern and Carolina Leagues. Storen's slider is an MLB plus-plus pitch, while his 93 MPH fastball and control are plus as well. The Nationals need bullpen help, and Storen will provide that help in 2010--maybe even becoming their closer. Dodgers shortstop prospect Dee Gordon, son of Tom "Flash" Gordon, has top tier speed and range, but his power, plate discipline and hands need work. If he can develop enough Gordon could be an above-average fielder, solid hitter and could steal 40-50 rather easily in the MLB.

71-80. The Kansas City Royals managed to get one of the 2009 draft's biggest steals by drafting Will Myers--a first round talent-- in the 3rd round. After signing, the young catcher quickly rewarded the Royals and posted a 1.106 OPS in 96 plate appearances in Rookie Ball. Myers has the potential to annually hit above .300 and slug above .500 in the MLB, and his cannon arm could make him a top notch catcher or third baseman. Angels' Trevor Reckling scores points for being left handed, otherwise he might not make the top 100. Reckling's fastball tops out at 91 and sits 87-90. His curveball has plus to plus-plus movement and his change is plus as well, making him very intriguing, but he only controls his fastball well. Tyler Clippard from the left side. Although Carlos Carrasco has ace potential with a plus-plus change and a fastball that reaches the mid-nineties regularly, his problems with homeruns and his knack for unraveling quickly have tarnished his prospect status. Matt Dominguez has yet to show much more than a plus glove with (gold glove potential), but Marlins' management believes he could be their new Mike Lowell by 2012. The big lefty, Aaron Poreda has a mid to high nineties fastball that helped him become the White Sox top Prospect in 2009. Now with the Padres, Poreda has the chance to make an impact quickly. His average breaking stuff, lack of a decent changeup and lackluster control suggest Poreda needs further seasoning however. The young Texan, Shelby Miller, was the Cardinals' first round draft pick in 2009 and has the best fastball of any of the 2009 Draft's high school pitchers. Miller's fastball has good movement and reaches 94 mph consistently. His curveball should be plus as well with some work. Miller is durable and athletic. At just 5'9" (really 5'7"), Twins Prospect Ben Revere, was considered a colossal stretch for the first round in 2007--the Twins didn't agree and picked him 28th. Revere quickly silenced his doubters and led the minors in batting (.379) in 2008. Revere features plus to plus-plus speed and rarely strikes out, but his lack of power (just 3 home runs in 1000 MiLB at bats) and weak arm make him a future Juan Pierre at best. Red Sox shortstopJose Iglesias was plucked out of the 2009 International FA market and has drawn numerous comparisons to Orlando Cabrera. His glove has the chance to be MLB plus-plus, but his bat lags well behind. The Marlins' young lefty Chad James has the best secondary pitch of any of his high school counterparts in the 2009 draft, with an advanced changeup. The pitch apparently has the ceiling of one of the best in the MLB, and because James could be hitting 93-94 mph on the radar gun in a few years, he could move quickly toward top prospect status. Josh Reddick has become a top prospect with his cannon arm, plus bat and surprising power. Reddick could be a gold glove outfielder one day, and with some added muscle could hit 25 MLB home runs as well. A Shawn Green comparison is a

81-90. Royals pitchers Tim Melville and Danny Duffy are two very different-- yet equally intriguing--young pitchers. Melville has the size and stuff, while Duffy has the craftiness and the handedness. A's shortstopGrant Green fell from a possible number 2 pick going in to 2009, all the way to the Athletics. Green has bat and approach to hit .300 and get on base near 38% of the time in the MLB, and with better footwork could win a Gold Glove at short. His strong arm is impressive. Lars Anderson fell apart in 2009 and lost 250 points in OPS. His size and batting potential still make him someone to keep an eye on. Junichi Tazawa has an impressive array of breaking pitches between his slider, curve and forkball. His control is another plus and his fastball (although straight) reaches 93-94 on occasion. He tires quickly however and needs seasoning in the minors. Brad Lincoln rebounded from surgery in 2009 and showed that his slider could still be an MLB plus pitch. Jake McGee hopes that he too can recover from surgery after losing most of 2009 to TJ surgery. Being a lefty with a 95 mph fastball and nasty breaking stuff make McGee a lock to get a look in the majors. His control issues and recent arm injury suggest alotting him to the bullpen however. Daniel Hudson is a pitcher I want to see succeed, but his stuff is still questionable. Hudson's changeup is plus, but he doesn't feature a reliable slider, and although his fastball has reached 93 on occasion he controls it better in the 87-90 range. Ryan Kalish is a very solid all-around player with a good approach, plus speed, good baserunning and a good bat. However, his arm strength is below average, his power won't transfer to the MLB and his speed isn't top-tier. Dodgers' prospect Scott Elbert has fallen from possible Ace starter to future MLB set-up man because of injuries and control issues. Still, being a lefty, Elbert's 90-95 mph fastball and nasty curveball ensure that he'll have success in some capacity at the MLB level. I still think he can be a very good starer.

91-100. Orioles third base prospect, Josh Bell, still insists remaining a switch hitter, even with such abominable platoon splits. Bell has plus power potential however, and he could end up being a solid third baseman in the MLB. Brad Holt may be an overrated Mets prospect, but he still possesses the breaking stuff to become a middle-to-backend starter on the Mets. Grant Desme, Oakland Athletics outfield prospect and shoulder surgery survivor tore apart the Midwest and California Leagues in 2009, bashing 31 homers, 31 doubles and 6 triples in 468 at bats. Then, in the Arizona Fall League, Desme was awarded the 2009 Joe Black MVP Award after leading the league in homers (11) and total bases (72). To go with his bat, Grant shows good instincts on the basepaths, stealing 40 bases in 2009. He doesn't have the speed to steal 40 in the MLB, but his above-average wheels and his saavy base running could heist 20 annually. The only part of his game that is suspect, is his contact--Desme struck out 148 times in 3/4 of a season in A-ball. Simon Castro has a fastball that sits in the 91-94 mph range and has a curve that is developing in to a plus MLB pitch. He lacks a usable changeup at this point. Jay Jackson is a hard thrower in the Cubs organization and often reachs 94-95 with his fastball. He has a good curve/slider combo as well, but still lacks a passable changeup and shows subpar control. The Dodgers' 2008 first round pick, Ethan Martin, has a fastball that sits in the 93-97 mpg range and a recently-developed, nasty power-curve. His control is well below average at this point, and his delivery and changeup both need years of refining. Italian third baseman Alex Liddi wasn't a prospect before his sensational 2009 performance in the California League. His 1.005 OPS led the League, and his 6'4" frame (although thin) suggest his numbers are more than a product of dry air. Carlos Triunfel missed most of 2009 due to injury, and at just 18 years old, the young infielder is still a mystery projection-wise. His bat could be MLB plus, but his average MLB speed, and his below-average power likely won't be useful anywhere but in the middle infield. Brandon Allen needs serious improvement in his plate discipline before he can be a successful MLB first baseman, but his size, power potential and recent success make him a candidate to be an MLB impact player for 2010. Brett Jackson was the 31st overall pick of the 2009 draft, but has the tools of a top 10 pick. Jackson has plus speed, plus power potential and could win a Gold Glove in the MLB. His strikeouts are his only question mark thus far.

Dropped off the Top 100:

Outfielder Andrew Lambo has shown little promise after being touted as having "light-tower power" potential by Baseball America in 2008. With a better approach, Lambo could still be an impressive hitter, although his poor defense, below average speed and novice plate discipline could keep his ceiling to fourth outfielder.

Bibliography:

Callis, Jim, Will Lingo, and Jim Shonerd. "Top Prospects by League." Baseball America Prospect Rankings. Baseball America, 1 Oct. 2010. Web. 1 Nov. 2010. .

Jaffe, Jay, Joe Sheehan, and Will Caroll. "PECOTA Card." Baseball Prospectus. Prospectus Entertainment Ventures, LLC. Web.

SABR Minor Leagues Database, Tom Tango, and Sean Smith. "Baseball Reference." Minor League Baseball History- Baseball-Reference.com. Sports Reference LLC. Web.

Top 200 MLB Prospects for 2010: 26-50

2009-11-13T00:57:00.013-05:00

Please click the following image to view prospects 26-50. Prospects 1-25 can be found in the previous post (immediately below this one).

Click the above Image to see Prospects 26-50.

26-30. Michael Taylor, the 6'6", 250 pound Stanford Alumnus and Reading left fielder tore apart the Eastern and International Leagues last year, especially early on, hitting .329 with a .549 slugging percentage, 20 bombs, 21 stolen bags in 428 at bats. His bat continued to develop, and his 53 extra base hits helped dispel any doubts that scouts had had about his power potential. At 6'5" and 250 pounds it's hard to believe there were any doubts to begin with. Taylor has plus speed and could steal 20 bases in the MLB. He has good range in left, but his arm is just adequate-- making him a good bet to be a left fielder, or even DH (if traded) in the MLB. Alcides Escobar had another nice year hitting .298 and stealing 42 bases in AAA Nashville before taking over for J.J. Hardy in the MLB and hitting at an even better clip-- batting .304 in 134 late summer plate appearances. His power and patience are both sub par and haven't seen much development, but because his platinum glove is considered the best in the minors he'll be one of the better all-around short stops in the NL. Marlins first base prospect Logan Morrison a third of the 2009 season with a broken wrist, but came back in an impressive way, posting an .854 OPS in 278 Southern League at bats. Possibly more impressive was Morrison's approach at the plate, walking 63 times vs. 46 strikeouts (1.37 BB/K rate). He hasn't shown any elite abilities, but his solid approach, decent glove, and his potential to have a plus bat and plus power keep make him an intriguing prospect. The Braves' Julio Teheran, a teenage string bean with a fireball fastball and a plus to plus-plus changeup, continued to wow scouts with his stuff. Through 43 innings for Danville, Teheran posted a K/BB ratio of 5.57 and an era of 2.68. He got roughed up a bit in single A in the second half of the season, but considering he's just 18, his performance was impressive. His mid 90s running fastball is fantastic, and his could be plus-plus when he reaches the MLB. Boston's 2008 draft pick, Ryan Westmoreland came roaring back from shoulder surgery and displayed his true 5-tool talent. In 233 at bats in the New York Penn League, Westmoreland posted an .885 OPS, smacked 15 doubles, 3 triples and 7 home runs, and stole 19 bases without being caught once. Although he DH'd for most of the year, once he recovers he could become the Red Sox version of Grady Sizemore in centerfield. His defense may end up being a tick below Sizemore's, but the other tools are there.

31-35. Jenrry Mejia continues to thrill the Mets with his 90-95 MPH fastball that features some of the best fastball movement in the minors. After dominating the Florida State League with a 1.97 era in 50 innings, Mejia posted solid numbers in AA for the remainder of the season. In 94 innings total Mejia gave up just two home runs. Because of his thin stature, and his lack of secondary stuff (although his curveball has plus potential), Mejia will probably start in the bullpen with the Mets. Casey Kelly, the Red Sox 2008 first round pick in the 2008 draft, showed that his future is in an MLB pitching rotation. Considered to be the most athletic pitcher in the minors, Kelly spent the first half of the season getting opposing batters to pound his sinking fastball into the ground and the second half making slick picks at short. Kelly controls his 88-93 mph two-seamer extremely well, and mixes in an MLB strikeout curve to whiff batters when he needs to. His 1.12 era in 47 innings with class A Greenville earned him a promotion to the Carolina League where he finished the season with a 3.09 era through 8 starts. Although his stuff won't make him a true ace, he has a very good chance at being a top tier 2-3 starter in the Red Sox rotation. Jhoulys Chacin continued his rise to the majors in 2009, finally making it in a brief stint as a reliever. After posting a nice season between the Texas and Pacific Coast Leagues, where he had 3.21 combined ERA, Chacin was called up to the majors. In his brief stint, J.C. showed that he still needs some work on his control (walking eleven batters in eleven innings). His 92-94 MPH fastball is impressive and his change has developed in to an MLB strikeout pitch. Aaron Crow The Nationals' first-round pick in the 2008 draft, and the Royals first pick in the 2009 draft, has loads of potential and likely has a future as a top tier MLB starter or a power closer/reliever. He controls all of his pitches well, and wields a 91-96 mph fastball (often toughing 97) and a plus to plus-plus slider. His changeup is still in development. Fernando Martinez has been cursed with developing too quickly, too early. New York expects a bit too much from the kid, too early on. Still just 21 years old, Martinez's fielding and speed have regressed a bit, but his bat projects to be a powerful one. In 176 at bats with AAA Binghampton, Martinez slugged .540, hitting 8 homers, 16 doubles and 2 triples.

36-40. The D'Backs' small-framed righty, Jarrod Parker will miss 2010 recovering from Tommy John surgery. Still, Parker projects to be a top notch pitcher, and his 2009 performance between A Advanced and AA supports everything scouts like about his stuff and approach. After T.J. surgery, Parker may have to scrap his high 80's slider, and stick to his plus curve, and newly developed change. Hitting for power, and drawing walks have made Tyler Flowers a top of the second-tier catching prospect. Although Flowers doesn't have the batting potential of Jesus Montero, or the defensive potential of Buster Posey, Flowers should be average behind the plate and plus in the box. Spending the season between the Southern and International Leagues in 2009, Flowers hit a combined .297 with 15 home runs, 28 doubles and 67 walks in 353 at bats. Aaron Hicks' best asset is his golden arm which is an easy 80 on the 20-80 scouting scale. With that in mind, it has puzzled many scouts that the Twins have insisted on keeping Hicks in center field, rather than using his 97 mph heater on the mound. Despite his unimpressive 2009 stat line--.251/.353/.382 in the Midwest League, the kid has shown the tools to be a 20-20 player in the MLB some day, in the Adam Jones/Curtis Granderson mold. If all else fails he could be a fireballer out of the bullpen. Jordan Lyles, the Astros' second pick of the '08 draft added some cheese to his 88-93 mph fastball, and continued to refine his array of plus breaking pitches. Lyles' 6'4" frame, and long arms give his delivery "easy speed," making him a likely future MLB innings eater. In 144 innings in 2009 with Lexington, Lyles struck out 167 and posted a 3.24 era. Indians prospect Lonnie Chisenhall made the Futures Game with his impressive 2009 campaign in the Carolina League. Chisenhall hit 18 home runs and 26 doubles througout 388 at bats in the humid Carolina air. Although his defense isn't as impressive as his bat, the former short stop should be able to hold his own (with work) in the MLB.

41-50. Brett Wallace's elephant legs allow him to generate a controlled/balanced swing that could help guide him toward a .300 batting average and 20-30 homers in the MLB one day. Between two leagues, two organizations, and three teams in 2009, Wallace hit .293 with 20 homers and found a groove with Sacramento in the Pacific Coast League where he showed off his ability with an .870 OPS. His below average speed and range limit his fielding potential, but his strong arm and good hands should keep him at third for at least a few years before he inevitably moves to first. The Rockies' 2009 first rounder Tyler Matzek seems to have a bright future after his emergence at the 2008 Aflac game. The young lefty also features a 90-95 mph fastball, a plus curve, a developing change and a developing slider. His fluid, easy delivery, plus control and plus fastball make him a nice pick for the Rockies. Derek Norris the young Nationals catcher is the National's Minor League Player of the Year for 2009 and the Sally League's offensive MVP. His patience, above average power and bat, and developing defense have made him one of the top catching prospects in the minors. Although his league leading 28 past balls in 2009 were a blemish, his strong arm and solid movement behind the plate suggest that he has a future there. Reid Brignac has lost a bit on his bat, but has gained plenty on D'. All around, Brignac could be at the top of the AL in defense at short while hitting .280-.300 with 15-20 homers some day. The Indians' Hector Rondon shot all the way up to AAA in 2009 with his polished fastball. His lack of dependable secondary pitches could send him to the bullpen soon. Tanner Scheppers is a wild card due to his shoulder issues, but his 93-98 MPH electric fastball keeps his ceiling sky-high. His power breaking ball is also a plus offering. Third baseman Josh Vitters made the futures game in 2009 and has impressed his coaches and counterparts with his bat--easily the best in the Cubs' system and one of the best in the minors. His lack of plate discipline and poor work ethic have caused his stock to drop a bit, however. Michael Saunders, the Mariners' favorite Canadian outfield prospect, had a nice season after returning from labrum surgery. Saunders hit .310 with a .922 OPS in the Pacific Coast League in 2009, and has the range (above average speed) and arm to play center one day. His plus base running nicely rounds-out his game. Michael Montgomery, the Royals young lefty has the potential to wield three plus pitches with plus control. In 110 innings pitched in 2009, the 20 year old struck out 98 and gave up just one home run while posting a 2.21 era. Dodgers flamethrower Chris Withrow rounds out my top 50 with his 96 mph fastball. Withrow's numbers aren't particularly impressive (outside of his 10.9 K/9 in 2009) due to his control issues. His stuff is top-tier however.

Bibliography:

Callis, Jim, Will Lingo, and Jim Shonerd. "Top Prospects by League." Baseball America Prospect Rankings. Baseball America, 1 Oct. 2010. Web. 1 Nov. 2010. .

Jaffe, Jay, Joe Sheehan, and Will Caroll. "PECOTA Card." Baseball Prospectus. Prospectus Entertainment Ventures, LLC. Web.

SABR Minor Leagues Database, Tom Tango, and Sean Smith. "Baseball Reference." Minor League Baseball History- Baseball-Reference.com. Sports Reference LLC. Web.

Top 100 MLB Prospects for 2010: 1-25

2009-11-06T22:09:00.034-05:00

The above list is the first segment of the 200 player list that I've composed over the past thirty days. The eligibility requirements for this list are somewhat similar to those for Baseball America. The requirements are: a maximum of 150 career MLB at bats for non-pitchers, 50 career MLB innings pitched for starting pitchers, 25 career MLB innings pitched for relief pitchers.

These rankings take in to account batting and fielding abilities and statistics, age, height, weight and body type, baseball experience and position played. Their distance to the MLB is less of a factor than in Baseball America's rankings; Younger prospects that likely won't play for an MLB team in 2010 won't be ranked much lower than prospects identical in talent, but closer to the MLB.

The numerical scouting ratings (20-80) are all projections. A scouting rating of "80" for a fastball, means that the pitch will be one of the top pitches in professional baseball during the pitchers' prime years. 80's are rare, and are given for a Johan Santana change-up, Greg Maddux control and Adam Dunn power. A "50" grade represents the Major League average, "60" is fringe All-Star, and 40 is below average. A grade of 20 is given to poor minor league abilities (Sean Casey speed).

For players ranked 1-10, I offer MLB Comparisons using my own observations and statistics as well as some that I've found through The Baseball Prospectus. I generally shoot for a comparison of 80% of what that player could be if their development continues according to plan, and isn't halted by injuries, off the field issues etc... The comparisons are crude.

To view the Top 25, please click on the above image. The following is an in-depth look at each prospect featured in my Top 25 prospect rankings.

1. Stephen Strasburg, RHP, Washington Nationals- Strasburg leads this list without pitching in a single professional game outside of the Arizona Fall League. He's easily the most lauded prospect of this years' list, and probably the most talked about of the past decade. His 4-seam fastball--often said to hit 102 mph--sits in the 95-99 range and he has mastered control of it. This pitch projects to be one of the best in the MLB in his prime. He also features a 2-seamer with good movement that sits between 94-96 mph, an overpowering slider in the high 80s (often in the 90s), and a developing change (that could grade plus with work). The whole package makes Strasburg an elite prospect. He simply doesn't have an MLB comparison (without getting too far ahead and comparing him to the best ever), but his prospect hype and his stuff make Josh Beckett the closest available comparison.
MLB Comparison: Josh Beckett (a very good chance for more)

2. Jason Heyward, OF, Atlanta Braves- Heyward will be ranked as the number 1 prospect on most top prospect lists for 2010. He's a true 5 tool player, with a great bat, great arm, plus speed, a 6'4" 220 frame and he has consistently proven himself in the minors. Just 19 years old for most of the season, Heyward posted a .963 OPS in 363 at bats between A Advanced, AA and a few AAA games. Heyward doesn't have a single hole in his game, and rates plus to plus-plus on every tool. Although he's a right fielder at the moment, he has the range and athleticism to a be very good center fielder. He doesn't quite have the power of Strawberry, but the rest of his game is similar. And barring the injuries and slow starts that hampered Cliff Floyd and J.D. Drew, Heyward looks like he could be one of the top outfield prospects of the past twenty years. Some compare him to Willie McCovey, I'd say he's more Vladamir Guerrero or Vernon Wells.
MLB Comparison: Vernon Wells

3. Neftali Feliz, RHP, Texas Rangers- Feliz could easily be number 1 on this list-- he would have been in many previous years. His 95-101 mph fastball is absolutely electric, and his hard slider is a top of the line secondary pitch. In his MiLB career, he's struck out 325 batters in 276 innings and he whiffed 11.3 batters per 9 innings as an MLB reliever in 2009. It's difficult to find a comparison to Feliz due to his rare mix of stuff and his ripped/wiry physique, but he's somewhere between Ramon Martinez and Ubaldo Jiminez. The Rangers are slotting him in as a starter for 2010, but at the very least he'll be a very effective back of the 'pen reliever. He still needs to harness his control, and work on hiding his pitches a bit better.
MLB Comparison: Ubaldo Jiminez

4. Pedro Alvarez, 3B, Pittsburgh Pirates- Alvarez looked shaky in the first half of 2009, and he was reported to be "out of shape" by his coaches during Spring Training. He then regained his thunderous step in Altoona by June and showed his immense talent for the rest of the 2009 season. In 222 Eastern League at bats, Alvarez hit .333 and mashed 13 home runs and 18 doubles sending his OPS over 1.000. Not a fantastic fielder, he has the tools to be a solid third baseman (sporting a strong arm) and plus at first. His power is tops, and when he's on, his batting is fantastic. He needs to improve his strikeout rate, but there isn't much else that needs work in his batting game.
MLB Comparison: Miguel Cabrera

5. Buster Posey, C, San Francisco Giants- Posey has shown that he has the skill set to be one of the top 5 MLB catchers within the next couple of years. He has the bat to win a batting title and the arm and range to win a Gold Glove. His power will probably level off in the 15-20 homers area, but he could hit 40 doubles with ease. In 2009 he put up near identical numbers between AA and AAA, and batted .325 with 18 homers and 31 doubles to go with 62 walks (vs. just 68 strikeouts) in 422 at bats. He even has good 1st-3rd speed. Depending on what the Giants do in the offseason, Posey could even get a few reps at short this Spring.
MLB Comparison: Between Jason Kendall (pre-injury) and Victor Martinez.

6. Jesus Montero, C, New York Yankees- Montero, the young Venezuelan backstop is one of the top International Free agent signees of the past decade. Scouts have consistently rated his power as an 80 on the 20-80 scale, and a few of the less conservative have been quoted in comparing his bat to a young Alex Rodriguez's. Indeed, Montero has the highest offensive potential on this list, posting a .951 OPS with a .337 batting average and 17 home runs in 347 at bats between Tampa A+ and Trenton AA as one of the youngest among his peers (19). His average-at-best potential behind the plate takes him back a few ranks-- throwing out just 20% of base runners (13% in A+) and allowing 11 passed balls in 2009. The Yankees think he can stay there with work, and I agree. There simply isn't an active comparison, but Aramis Ramirez is somewhat similar at the dish.
MLB Comparison: Aramis Ramirez

7. Michael Stanton, RF, Florida Marlins- Stanton has 80 power and is the closest thing to a guarantee for more than 30 home runs annually in the MLB, that one could possibly expect from a prospect that still can't legally order a beer in a Miami bar. At age 18, Stanton tore apart the Sally League in 2008, belting 39 homers and slugging .611. Between the Florida State League and Southern League in 2009, he was less impressive but still managed to slug .501 in 479 at bats, and had an OPS of .968 with Jupiter. He needs to work on his patience and contact--still striking out far more than he walks, but his strong arm and solid range make his defense in right field another possible plus. He could be Eric Davis or Andruw Jones at the plate, or he could be Karim Garcia. There is still a considerable space between Stanton and MLB stardom, but he has the bat.
MLB Comparison: Jermaine Dye

8. Brian Matusz, LHP, Baltimore Orioles- The tall lefty doesn't throw hard for someone who is 6'5", but his fastball can still reach 93-94 at times. Matusz's pull resides in his control and his variety of plus pitches. Matusz throws a plus change, a plus curve and a solid slider. With continued development his curve could be his best offering, but currently his change is his best pitch, rating as one of the best secondary pitches in the 2008 draft by Baseball America. In 121 innings between A+ and AA, Matusz led his peers with a 1.91 ERA, and posted 121 strikeouts (vs. 32 walks) in 113 innings. He also went 5-2 with a 4.63 ERA (inflated by a poor first start), and 38 k's in 44 MLB innings. Currently he looks like he could be a lesser Cole Hamels, or a new Greg Swindell.
MLB Comparison: Cole Hamels

9. Justin Smoak, 1B, Texas Rangers- Smoak is one of the more well-rounded prospects on this list and will probably succeed in the majors with his exceptional discipline, adept batting eye and plus defense. He has a very good bat, and although he has drawn comparisons to Mark Teixeira, his power potential isn't quite as impressive, but he could still approach 30 homers. In 183 at bats in the Texas League in 2009, Smoak batted .328 with a .449 OBP, six homers and ten doubles. He stumbled in AAA, but still has the ability to be a very good MLB first baseman, very soon. Will "The Thrill" Clark could be a decent comparison with a little bit of luck.
MLB Comparison: Will Clark

10. Carlos Santana, C, Cleveland Indians- Santana won the Eastern League MVP in 2009, posting an impressive .943 OPS, ranking second with 23 homeruns, and leading the league in walks with 90 (vs. 83 k's). His arm has been rated a "70" on many scouting scales, including Baseball America's Jim Callis', but his receiving and footwork still need seasoning. Either way, Santana's potential and current abilities make him a clear candidate for becoming a top MLB catcher within the next few years. Another tough prospect to find a comparison to, he's somewhere between Russell Martin and Brian McCann when tools and ceiling are put together. He doesn't quite have the swing or build to match his minor league numbers in the majors, but given enough at bats, he could post 20 homers and an OBP around .380. The 2009 catching job is his for the taking, and while he could turn out to be Roberto Petagine, I think he'll be closer to Jorge Posada with the bat.
MLB Comparison: Jorge Posada (less bat, lighter on his feet, quicker development)

11-15. This year's Top 25' has a number of very good pitchers (especially lefties), and a lack of top-tier middle infielders. Madison Bumgarner has the potential to be one of the better left-handed pitchers in the NL, but his fastball (his bread and butter) didn't reach the mid-nineties in his MLB debut- sitting in the 88-91 MPH range and surprising many of his fans. This is certainly worrisome considering his insistence on living off of the pitch-- something he's done for most of his career.But his fastball control is unmatchable, and his developing curve has promise. Christian Friedrich has one of the best curveballs in the minors, and after striking out 159 batters in 119 innings between Asheville and Modesto, Friedrich looks like a future star, and yet another promising pitcher in the Rockies system. The recent Cuban defector, Aroldis Chapman, another left-handed pitching prospect, has been wowing scouts, recently, with his 93-98 MPH fastballs (his four-seamer reaches 100 mph on occasion) and plus breaking pitches. He has the build and body to be an MLB starter, but may end up being a high-priced, high-end MLB Closer in the Billy Wagner mold. Martin Perez, yet another young (emphasis on young at 18) lefty prospect has drawn comparisons to Johan Santana with his 91-95 mph fastball and superb change. At just 18 years old, Perez made it all the way to the Texas League in 2009, after posting a 2.31 ERA and striking out 105 in 93 innings in class A. Rays outfielder Desmond Jennings has excellent wheels, and is plus-plus on the base paths. The young burner batted .318 with 67 walks (vs. 67 k's) and stole 52 bases (caught just 7 times) between the Southern and International Leagues. His power is more of the gap type, but he still has the ability to approach Carl Crawfordian numbers in the MLB.

16-20. After a dominant 2009 season, Kyle Drabek--son of former Cy Young Award winer Doug Drabek-- has taken his post as the top pitcher in Philadelphia's farm system. Drabek tore apart the Florida State League with a 2.48 ERA and 74 K's in 61 innings. He also held his own in the Eastern League in the season's second half, going 8-2 with 3.64 ERA in 96 innings. K.D.'s fastball is often clocked in the mid 90s, and his 75-80 mph spike curve is an MLB strikeout pitch. Dustin Ackley, the consolation prize to Stephen Strasburg in the 2009 Draft, finished his college career with a batting average above .400 at UNC, and has the ability to win an MLB batting title one day. He has plus speed, and with some added muscle could hit 20 homers in the big leagues. He has the range and athleticism to be a plus MLB center fielder, but his recovery from Tommy John Surgery will determine his defensive ceiling. Chris Carter, the Athletics tops prospect strikes out a bit much, and despite a good arm doesn't have the glove skills to hold an MLB position just yet. Carter has immense power though, and tore apart the Texas League with a .337 batting average, 24 home runs and 41 doubles in 490 at bats in 2009. He could easily slot in as the A's DH in 2010. Wade Davis, leads the Rays' pack of top, young pitchers, and his 93-96 MPH fastball and solid breaking stuff have left a spot in the rotation open for him for 2010. The 6'5" righty had a very promising debut with the Rays in September, posting a 3.72 ERA and striking out 32 in 32 innings. Freddie Freeman, the 6'5" first basemen in the Braves' system, established himself as a top prospect with a 2008 South Atlantic League Performance that included an .899 OPS and a .316 batting average. In 2009 he continued to show his talent, still just 19 years old by the end of the season, batting .302 with 19 doubles and an .841 OPS in the pitcher-friendly Carolina League.

21-25. The Rays featured 5 prospects in my top 25 for 2010, and the final three lay in this range. Matt Moore emerged as a lights-out, future ace pitching for Bowling Green in class A for all of 2009. He struck out an astonishing 176 batters in 123 innings with a late-moving 4-seamer clocked in the 89-95 mph range, a tight curve that will probably be a plus MLB pitch and a developing change which could rate above average one day. Jeremy Hellickson is another promising Rays arm, and sports a 90-93 sinking 2-seamer and a change that will probably be plus at the MLB level. Hellickson's command and polish are his strong points, and his ability to spot his fastball have made him a top prospect. After giving up 22 home runs in 2008, Hellickson gave up just 8 in 114 innings between AA and AAA in 2009. He posted a 2.45 ERA, and gave up 5.7 hits and struck out 10.4 per 9 innings pitched. His less than intimidating frame and his previous troubles with the long ball keep him behind Davis and Moore. Dominic Brown, an outfielder in the Phillies organization, has the mix of tools to break the top 15 on this list, but is downgraded due to his current lack of anything plus-plus on offense. Brown hit .299 with 14 home runs and 23 stolen bases (although he was caught 10 times) in 295 at bats between A+ and AA. He showed plus defense in right field. He has the potential to be a very good major leaguer with some polish, and looks like a Brian Jordan type. Tim Beckham, the no. 1 overall pick in the 2008 Draft, has yet to breakout and really show his potential, but still has flashed his skills, particularly in the second half of 2009. He has the batting ability to hit .300 and approach 15-20 homers in the MLB some day, and has the athletic ability to be one of the top fielding shortstops in the minors. Many at Baseball America have jumped ship because of his 43 errors and added size in 2009, but I still am a believer in his tools and believe he'll be at short-- or at the very least, second when/if he makes the MLB. His speed is the 1st-3rd variety, and will probably be expressed in doubles and triples rather than stolen bases. Reds first base prospect, Yonder Alonso rounds out my top 25 with his advanced approach, and plus bat. He missed much of 2009 due to injury, but still managed to impress with his .880 OPS in the Florida State League, and his .292 batting average and 41 walks (vs. 46 strikeouts) in 295 at bats between the Florida State and Southern League. His speed and range are below average, and overall he projects to be an average-at-best first baseman defensively. With Joey Votto in the MLB, look for Alonso to find a new home elsewhere for 2010.

Top 200 Prospects Report Schedule:
26-50: November 12th
51-100: November 15h
100-200: November 18th

Bibliography:

Callis, Jim, Will Lingo, and Jim Shonerd. "Top Prospects by League." Baseball America Prospect Rankings. Baseball America, 1 Oct. 2010. Web. 1 Nov. 2010. .

Jaffe, Jay, Joe Sheehan, and Will Caroll. "PECOTA Card." Baseball Prospectus. Prospectus Entertainment Ventures, LLC. Web.

SABR Minor Leagues Database, Tom Tango, and Sean Smith. "Baseball Reference." Minor League Baseball History- Baseball-Reference.com. Sports Reference LLC. Web. .

Thanks to EJMAbaseball.com and PhillyNews.com for the Strasburg and Drabek pictures.

My grades are based primarily on my personal analysis and investigation, but do often consider the analysis of professional scouts and baseball analysts, primarily at Baseball America. I also may include the analysis of qualified peers. I do give credit to all of those that contribute.

Sic Transit Gloria

2009-04-22T18:34:00.007-04:00

For some reason, every year baseball analysts, reporters, and fantasy baseball "advisers," love to over-hype every single prospect that has had a few good major league appearances the year before. The following list is a number of players that don't seem to be able to live up to their lofty expetations--at least not yet. Many of these guys will be good or even All Star players, but many of them also will disappear into the minors or become career reserves/journeymen. To Lindy's Fantasy Baseball Analysts-- Remember, only about a quarter (a third if you're lucky) the the top 100 prospects will become good or All Star MLB players. Simply put, someone has gotta fail.

2. Kei Igawa, LHP, New York Yankees- The Yankees poor scouting in Japan really cost them some dough. Igawa is a downright BAD pitcher, even out of the bullpen. A guy that can't control a 85-88 mph fastball is not a guy that you want on your team. His slider isn't bad, but again, he can barely keep it in the strike zone, much less spot it. The Yankees took him off the 40-Man Roster for 2008, and still nobody has touched him on waivers. He wins the number one spot, because he has the worst pay-production ratio and promise of any of these guys. At least Bush and Patterson still have a shot at being decent. He's doing well in AAA, but don't let that--or his first name-- fool you, he's am absolutely abominable pitcher.

3. Matt Bush, RHP/INF, Toronto Blue Jays/Free Agent- Bush, the first pick of the 2004 draft, is the owner of the largest San Diego Padres signing bonus (for a draft pick) in team history. He has fantastic tools, and can throw 95, but his behavior issues and downright poor game-knowledge killed his career. His stats as a position player were horrid, and he never made it past A-Ball in his three active seasons. Now converted to a pitcher Bush has soon a glimpse of success (seven innings worth) but he then blew out his elbow, got suspended twice more (now three times in total in his career)) for drinking-related fighting/incidents, and now once again looks hopeless. I hope he does well, because he's not a bad guy, he just has problems with stress and booze. One day he could come up as a Jose Veras type pitcher, but certainly won't ever be a star Short Stop.

4. Bryan Bullington, SP, Pittsburgh Pirates- Bullington was one of the more puzzling no.1 picks of the recent decade. The Pirates passed up Prince Fielder, Matt Cain, Nick Swisher, B.J. Upton, Scott Kazmir, Joe Blanton, Jeremy Hermida and Jeff Francouer for a guy that has done absolutely nothing noticeable in the minors or majors.

5. Alex Escobar, OF, Free Agent- Escobar's failure was really just bad luck. The kid has always had the tools to be Ken Griffey Jr, but a slew of shoulder and knee injuries have ruined his promise. The Mets organization were convinced that they had a Carlos Beltran on their hands, but now turning 31, Escobar has finally lost the confidence of every team in the league. His tools are still there, but as it stands, he probably won't ever be anything more than a MiLB journeyman.

6. Sean Burroughs, 3B, Tampa Bay Rays/Free Agent- Drafted 9th, in the first round of the 1998 Amateur draft, Burroughs looked to be a star. His batting average has always been decent, but his power completely dissapeared once he started playing professionally. His .358 slugging percentage in professional ball just plain isn't going to get it done--especially for a third basemen. He's not exactly a AAAA player either. His slugging percentage in the minors was still only .437, and even though he had a strong arm and good range, his career fielding percentage was just 93.8%. He's finally done, but I personally think he could still serve as a solid, low-end bench INF in the MLB. Hell, if Wil Nieves is still getting job offers than why shouldn't Sean Burroughs.

7. Timo Perez, CF, Detroit Tigers/Free Agent- Every Met fan remember's "Timo Time" running across the Shea scoreboard. Unfortunately for Timo, however, his time never came. Like Gabe Kapler, Timo is a perfect example of a AAAA player. His career MiLB numbers--a .322 batting average and an .873 OPS-- are sexy, no doubt, but his ability to play in the MLB is obviously lacking. T.P. are perfect initials for Timo, as he's an asswhipe.

8. Sidney Ponson, SP, Kansas City Royals- Ugh, the fatman really sucks. He had sooo much promise but his body/weight problems have finally made him a journeyman/veteran spot starter.I'm not going to lie, I was on Ponson's bandwagon in 2002/2003 when he got it together and started pitching like an ace. But he then proceeded to gain about 20 pounds of fat and put up a league leading 265 hits and 127 earned runs in 2004. Since then he has been below average on every one of his stops around the US. The classic "I already have my money so why should I work hard?."

9. Corey Patterson, CF, Washington Nationals- Patterson used to be the Cubbies favorite baby bear. Drafted 3rd overall in 1998, Patterson has had SOME MLB success, but is finally looking like he's toast. He's awful at getting on base (.291 career OBP) and his career .407 SLG doesn't exactly justify this weakness. He is a victim of WTP. He does have some speed, and can get hot with the bat, but seriously guys, do you think this guy will ever be a 20-20 player again? He'll probably never even be a regular again.

10. Eric Duncan, 1B, New York Yankees- It was either Duncan or Andy Marte here, and I honestly think Duncan is more doomed than Marte--at least Marte could be a Wilson Betemit some day. Eric Duncan was the cream of the Yankees crop before their recent wave of high powered prospects. Every "real" fan of the Yankees knows this guy, and although he didn't have the hype that Drew Henson did, he was highly touted by the organization's management. Now, after 6 seasons in the minors, his career numbers look pretty lousy for a crappy-fielding first baseman. A .247 batting average and his .416 slugging percentage are pretty much the best stats out of his career MiLB stat- line...Ouch.

11. Carlos Gomez, CF, Minnesota Twins- Sure, the kid is very young--going on 24-- but as of right now, he looks like a future, decent backup rather than a star player. Gomez's numbers last year were aweful, and they downright hurt the Twins. 614 plate appearances of .296 OBP, and .360 SLG, baseball is unacceptable for an outfielder...Even a rookie. He's shown know improvement for 2009, and is currently sporting a stomach-churning, .529 OPS. He has zero plate discipline, has never hit 10 homers or hit .300 at any level and isn't exactly a whiz on defense either. Does this sound like a future star to you? It doesn't even sound anything close to a future leadoff man to me...Much less an All Star. Phil Humber, Carlos Gomez, Deolis Guerra and some other stiff for Johan Santana. Fair.

12. Daniel Cabrera, SP, Washington Nationals- Now entering his 6th season in the MLB, and turning 28 in May, it's finally obvious that Cabrera will never be Josh Beckett. The guy's control is horrible, and he isn't a winner. He gives up with men on base, and even though the Orioles weren't great, they still gave him some support. His 18 Losses in 2007 should have been enough for the Orioles to get rid of him, but to their credit they stomached it for one more season. In his career he has put up more walks (486) than strike outs (480)--and that should be enough to convince you that he's garbage. He may become a decent reliever, but nothing more than a Brian Bruney or Kyle Farnsworth if that ever happens.

Takes the Cake...

1. Drew Henson, 3B, New York Yankees- Because the Yankees tend to have the most hyped and often over-hyped prospects in the game, they also tend to have the biggest busts. Drew Henson is likely the loudest bust of the past decade. He ended his minor league career with a fielding percentage a hair above .900, and had an OPS of just .728. He did manage to set a record for strikeouts (at the time) in the International League with 151, with less than a full season's worth of at bats. He quickly switched to football, after costing the Yankees millions. He faired no better, and finally retired in 2008. Nice guy, great athlete, simply couldn't put it together professionally.

The New York Yankees- Cash Crops Part II

2009-04-08T15:06:00.005-04:00

2.) The New York Yankees, 4 WS, (56%)

Considering the Yankees' minor league system is responsible for some of the best current players in the game--Mariano Rivera, Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada, Andy Pettitte, Chien-Ming Wang, Robinson Cano--it's hard to believe that they lost sight of the importance of homegrown youngsters for much of the early 2000's. Brian Cashman finally got a say in the whole thing, and has reverted back to the model that work for the Yankees in the mid to late-nineties.

1. Mariano Rivera, CL- In my opinion, Mariano Rivera is THE best Closer of all time, and certainly the best modern reliever. Yes Trevor Hoffman is great, but his change and sinker don't come close to striking the fear that Rivera's 94 mph cutter (really a slider) does on opposing batters. Rivera's resume is sparkling. He's been an All Star 9 times and counting, won the AL Rolaids Relief four times, has been both an ALCS and World Series MVP and has led the league in saves three times. He's also the best post-season reliever of all time.

2. Derek Jeter, SS- Jeter was a large part of the four World Series that Torre's Yankees won in the mid-late-1990's (and 2000). He holds numerous post-season hitting records, has a .316 career batting average, has been in the top 10 in MVP voting five times, has won three silver sluggers, has three gold gloves, and has made the All Star team nine times. You can say what you want about his fielding, but you can't deny that Jeter is deserving of a spot in the Hall of Fame.

3. Jorge Posada, C- It's hard to find a more reliable catcher than Posada. He'll probably just miss the Hall, but his numbers still put him as one of the top twenty catchers of all time. Besides his postseason success, Posada has made the All Star team five times and has won three silver sluggers. He's the true leader of the Yankees, and certainly a VERY large factor in their success.

4. Andy Pettitte, LHP- Andy Pettitte has been an absolute horse for the Yankees. He's third all-time on the Yankees' list of Wins (by a pitcher), and is ahead of stars like Ron Guidry. His career record is something you'd see in a Hall of Fame pitcher's line-- 216-116 with a 63% win-loss percentage. 179 of those wins (and counting) were with the Yankees, and at age 36 he may be old, but certainly isn't done.

5. Bernie Williams, CF- Bernabe Williams, along with Jeter, carried the Yankees on his back--offensively--to the post-season year in and year out. During their streak, the Yankees were known for their pitching, bullpen and defense--but usually didn't sport more than 3 All Star batters at once. Bernie's career .297 batting average, .380 OBP and .477, although very good, don't do justice to how valuable he was to those winning teams. For a guy that has won a Batting Title, four Gold Gloves, been to the All Star game five times, was an ALCS MVP and won a Silver Slugger, Bernie doesn't get a lot of Hall consideration. He may not be Hall-Worthy, but he certainly should be considered to be one of the best hitters in recent history.

6. Joba Chamberlain, RHP- At age 23, Joba Chamberlain hasn't had the chance to amass a long MLB resume. What he has on his resume, however, is extremely promising. Joba has the stuff, star-personality, and name to be one of THE BEST pitchers in the AL for years to come. With many of the Yankees hanging up their cleats over the past few years, and with more doing so in the next few years, Chamberlain is poised to be the Yanks' Pitching Staff leader for the next decade. Basically, he's Francisco Liriano without the elbow trouble.

7. Alfonso Soriano, 2B- Soriano only had 3 full seasons with the Yankees, but will forever be the name tied to the most famous (infamous) trade of all time--A-Rod to the Yankees. Soriano played like an MVP for 2 of the three years he started at second for the Yankees, going 39-41 in 2002 and then 38-35 in 2003. If the MLB was on the steroids-thing earlier, then he would've won an MVP in one of those years. Regardless, Soriano is a hell of a player, and even if his time with the Yankees was relatively short, his worth gave the Yankees the best hitter of the modern era.

8. Robinson Cano, 2B- Cano wasn't bad in 2007, he was actually above the league average as far as batting for a second basemen. For a guy that hit .306, .342 and .297 in the previous three years, however, his numbers were a disappointment. The kid has a bright future ahead of him, and probably a batting title (or a few) if everything goes as planned.

9. Chien-Ming Wang, RHP- Wang is about to fill the void that Pettitte is leaving behind as he slides into retirement. At age 29 Wang is a young horse. In his young career Wang has already started 98 games, pitched over 634 innings, and won 54 games. His foot injury has made some question his future.

10. Ramiro Mendoza, LRP/SP- During his time in the bigs, Mendoza was a very valuable tool. His fantastic sinker made him a great reliever to bring in with men on base--regularly inducing a double play. His ability to provide a quality starts when any of the Yankees top five went down was irreplaceable. When one of their starter's heads to the DL, most teams have to make due with rookies, or veterans from the scrap-heap. Torre's Yankees however, had an above average starter basically acting as a 6th man in the rotation.

Cash Crops Part II

2009-04-08T13:05:00.010-04:00

3) Oakland Athletics

Clearly the Red Sox have been the best at constructing a championship team with their farm system. However, in the time of Mr. Billy Beane, the most influential figure on the business-side of baseball, it's hard to overlook the Oakland Athletics' Success over the past decade using their farm. Beane created a mainstream statistical system by which to measure baseball players. Although some of the stats he used were made before him, like "On-Base-Percentage", (OBP) he was the guy that first put these once obscure measurements to use. Now General Managers like Theo Epstein (Red Sox), Jim Bowden (Washington Nationals), Mark Shapiro (Cleveland Indians) and J.P. Ricciardi use the system that Beane assembled and are creating similar teams to the early 2000s Oakland Athletics.

Even though the Athletics haven't won a World Series in two decades, Beane's ballclub had a League Division Series streak of four years (2000-2003) and made the AL Championship Series in 2006. The impressive part isn't this team's ability to make the playoffs however. The impressive part is that the Oakland Athletics had between the third and fifth lowest payroll in the MLB during most of this timespan. Even in 2006, when Beane was allowed to open the wallet (a little) the Athletics still sported a payroll that ranked 22nd in the league. Below are the players that--from the 1990s until now--have made the Oakland Athletics the second most successful farm-based franchise.

1. Tim Hudson, SP, Atlanta Braves- Ricky Henderson was probably the best thing to come out of the Oakland System in the last 30 years, however Tim Hudson isn't a too-distant second. In 10 seasons, (6 with the Athletics) Hudson has posted a 3.48 career era, over 2000 innings pitched, 146 wins to just 77 losses, and a 1.25 WHIP. In his 6 seasons with the Athletics, from 1999-2004, Hudson posted an ERA of just over 3.30, 92 wins and pitched 1,240 innings over 183 games started. Hudson wasn't only an ace, but he was Oakland's work horse. Before C.C. Sabathia came Tim Hudson. Now 10 years after coming up with the Athletics, Hudson has the 13th best ERA among active pitchers, has started for the Athletics in the ALDS and ALCS, has made two All Star games and is ranked 9th in shutouts.

2. Miguel Tejada, SS, Houston Astros- Tejada was the emotional leader of the Athletics, along with Eric Chavez, for seven seasons. Between 1997 and 2003, Tejada drove in 604 runs (average over 100 rbi per 600 AB), hit 156 bombs and slugged about .460. In his career, Tejada has now made 5 All Star games, has won 2 silver sluggers, an MVP Award and is 17th among active players in homeruns. Now with the Astros, Tejada's star is finally fading at age 35 (in May). However, during the half of his career that he played in Oakland, Tejada led his team to the playoffs and was their most talented position-player since Rickey Henderson.

3. Eric Chavez, 3B, Oakland Athletics- Eric Chavez is to the Athletics what Mattingly was to the Yankees in the 80s. Drafted by Billy Beane in 1996 out of highschool, it took Chavez less than three seasons to make the MLB roster. Now after 11 seasons, Chavez is still with the Athletics and is poised to make a comeback in 2009 after his shoulder surgery in 2006. Between 2000 and 2006 Chavez hit 199 homers, won 6 Gold Gloves, a Silver Slugger and batted in 660 runs. Throughout his career Chavez has been a rock for the Athletics. Although Scott Rolen is considered one of the best (if not the best) third basemen in the NL in last 20 years, Eric Chavez is very close to first with the same amount of Silver Sluggers (one), only one less Gold Glove (6), and has even averaged 2 more home runs per 162 games (29 vs. Rolen's 27). Only two years older than Chavez, Rolen still leads the two in All Star Appearances (6 to 0), Gold Gloves, homeruns, batting average, on base percentage, and slugging percentage. However, if Chavez can recover in 2009, he'll certainly give Rolen "a run for his money" through the final years of their careers.

4. Jason Giambi, 1B, Oakland Athletics- After an eight-season stint with the Yankees, Giambi returned to the Athletics in 2009. Although steroid allegations have put a dent in Giambi's reputation, it is undeniable that he was still one of the best power-hitters since 1990. In his career Giambi has a .942 OPS, a .408 OBP, 396 home runs and over 1,270 rbi. Yankees fans never truly appreciated what Giambi brought to the team due to the team's overall lack of postseason success in the 2000s. Not counting his two off years, Giambi has hit 183 home runs, average about 100 rbis and an OPS consistently above .900 during his time with the Yankees. His trophy case, although lacking a World Series Ring, includes 5 All-Star games, an MVP award, two Silver Sluggers and the Major League's "Hutch Award going to the league's most productive hitter. Now 38, Giambi is about ready to put his fourteen-year-old career to rest.

5. Barry Zito, LHP, San Francisco Giants- Early in his career, Zito was one of the top five pitchers in baseball and the best in the AL at certain times. Even though Zito is only 30 years old, he was used to the point of complete burn-out by the Oakland Athletics. Now with the Giants, he's not the pitcher he used to be. How can a pitcher be so "done" by age 30? Easy. The Athletics completely relied on the shoulders of three young pitchers-- Tim Hudson, Barry Zito and Mark Mulder-- for most of their playoff run in the early 2000s. For his career, Zito has already pitched only a season short of 2,000 innings (1,807 ip) and has started 287. With the Athletics, between 2000 and 2005, Zito had a 3.53 ERA, won 102 games, pitched 1,430 innings, posted a 1.25 WHIP, made 3 All Star appearances and won the American League's Cy Young Award (2002). Not only are those numbers impressive, but they certainly help explain why I'm rating this team's pitching-development as one of the best in the MLB.

cont'd 4/10/09

Nationals Finalize Roster

2009-04-02T19:06:00.009-04:00

The Nationals, along with the rest of the MLB, are finally done with putting together their active roster. Finally, the Nationals look like they could be a .500 baseball very soon, if not next year. Billy Beane and Theo Epstein are both hailed as the best GM's in the majors, and they probably are, but Jim Bowden is right there with them. Bowden has used the draft and has picked up a nice group of players while trading away--or letting go of-- fairly useless spare parts like Ryan Church, Emilio Bonifacio, Luis Ayala and Brian Schneider. Below is the Nats' lineup, roster and depth chart for 2009--with projections and grades of course.

Washington Nationals, 76-86 in 2009

Lineup B+

CF Lastings Milledge (B), .275, 15 hr, 30 sb, 90 runs
SS Cristian Guzman (B-), .290, 7 hr, 90 runs
1B Nick Johnson (B), .285, 16 hr, 80 rbi, .370 OBP
3B Ryan Zimmerman (B/B+), .275, 25 hr, 100 rbi, 80 runs, GG
LF Adam Dunn (B+), .250, 36 hr, 95 rbi, .370 obp
RF Elijah Dukes (B+), .270, 20 hr, 20 sb
C Jesus Flores (B), .265, 12 hr
2B Anderson Hernandez (C), .260, 50 runs, 5.5 rfg
P John Lannan

Bench B

INF Ronnie Belliard (B-), .275, .450 slg
Util Willie Harris (C+), .255, .430 slg, 10 sb
C Josh Bard (C/C+), .285, .360 obp
OF/1B/C Josh Willingham (B-/B), .260, 18 hr, .465 slg, .350 obp
SS Alberto Gonzalez (C), .265, .380 slg, 4.5 rfg
OF Austin Kearns (B-), .265, .450 slg, .350 obp
CI Kory Casto Minors, (C-), .230, .380 slg

Rotation B-

1. John Lannan (B), 10-12, 3.85, 200 ip, 120 k
2. Scott Olsen (B), 12-11, 4.10, 200 ip, 115 k
3. Daniel Cabrera (C/C+), 6-10, 4.90, 170 ip, 110 k
4. Shairon Martis (C+/B-), 6-8, 4.60, 140 ip, 100 k
5. Jordan Zimmerman (B/B+), 8-8, 3.90, 150 ip, 110 k

Bullpen B

CL Joel Hanrahan (B), 3.50, 25 saves, 80 ip, 85 k
SU Joe Beimel (B+), 2.90, 60 ip
SU Saul Rivera (B), 3.90, 70 ip
MR Garret Mock (B/B+), 3.85, 65 ip, 65 k
MR Steve Shell (B), 3.40, 60 ip
LS/LR Mike Hinckley (B-), 4.10, 65 ip
RP Terrell Young (B-), 4.30, 40 ip

Minors B-
--> Note- Letter grade is potential for minors players.

LRP Julian Tavarez (C)
SP/CL/LHP Ross Detwiler (B+/A-)
SP Collin Balester (B)
SP/LR Wil Ledezma (C+)
SP Jack McGeary (B+)
SP Jason Bergmann (B-)
LR Luis Atilano (C+)
MR Marco Estrada (B-)
SP Mike O'Connor (C)
SP Tyler Clippard (B-)
SU/MR Justin Jones (B-)
SU J.D. Martin (B+)
MR Ryan Wagner (C)
DL Matt Chico (C+)

C Luke Montz (B-)
OF Michael Burgess (B+)
1B Chris Marrero (B)
SS Esmailyn Gonzalez/Carlos Alvarez (B+)
OF Justin Maxwell (C+/B-)
OF Roger Bernadina (C+)
OF Destin Hood (B-/B)
SS Ian Desmond (C+/B-)
1B Dmitri Young (C+)
OF Leonard Davis (C+)
INF Joel Guzman (B-)
C Gustavo Molina (C+)
C Wil Nieves (F)
OF Corey Patterson (B-)
INF Jose Castillo (C+)
1B Brad Eldred (C-)
1B Matt Whitney (C+/B-)
MI Freddie Bynum (C)

Other/Non 40-Man Roster

LHP Gustavo Chacin
SP/LR Josh Towers
SP Kip Wells
LR/SP Jorge Sosa

Overall B-

The Nationals probably won't get to .500 because of their iffy pitching staff, lack of experience and tough division. However, a respectable record, somewhere in the realm of .500 is very possible. Their pitching staff gets a lot of guff but I believe its a little bit underrated. John Lannan and Scott Olsen are both very solid pitchers, Jordan Zimmerman is a future front-of-the-rotation-starter, Daniel Cabrera still has plenty of potential and Shairon Martis has shown consistency and flashes of brilliance at times. If one of these guys performs poorly or gets injured, then the Nats have prospect Collin Balester and veteran Jason Bergmann waiting in the minors. Shawn Hill will be trying to come back from injury as well. All and all the rotation is looking pretty decent.

The bullpen has been rebuilt and actually looks like a good one. Rule 5 draftee, Terrell Young is underrated and could be a good set up man some day. Steve Shell and Garret Mock are both good relievers. Mock has power stuff and racks up strikeouts while Shell is a reliable late-inning reliever. The closer, Joel Hanraham, has a repetoire that consists of a mid 90's fastball and a biting slider. He'll be solid. Saul Rivera is a nice veteran to have with this young bullpen and can be relied upon for some quality, but not spectacular, innings. Newly signed Joe Beimel is a very good lefty, capable of getting very tough hitters to pop-out. Mike Hinckley will dabble in long relief as well as a LOOGY role. In the minors Wil Ledezma, Jesus Colome, Julian Tavarez and Jason Bergmann will all get a look by the All Star break.

The lineup and bench are the Nats' strength. Adam Dunn is an established star, and likely the most underrated player in the majors. Ryan Zimmerman, Elijah Dukes and Lastings Milledge all project to be future All-Stars and possibly Silver-Slugger and Gold Glove (Dukes and Zimmerman) winners. Nick Johnson is a solid as they come, and can get on base, produce runs and hit 20 homers. Cristian Guzman is a consistent veteran, and is good for a .280-.300 average and solid all-around play. Anderson Hernandez and Alberto Gonzalez will share time with Willie Harris at second base, and all of them will compete for the starting job well into the season. Hernandez and Gonzalez are very good defenders while Harris has a solid bat and is fast. Ronnie Belliard can play both of the corners and second base, and although his defense is sub-par, he provides a .450 slugging percentage and a good average off of the bench. Austin Kearns is a favorite of Bowden and will look to bounce back in 2009. He could find his stroke again, especially now that Adam Dunn is his teammate once again. He plays very good defense, and when he's hot, he's an All Star caliber hitter. Wil Nieves will play a backup role in the minors because of his experience with young pitchers, but he has the worst bat AAA ball much less the majors. Josh Bard will take over the backup role, and has the potential to bat near .300- Mike Redmond type.

The Nationals' prospect pool is fairly average, overall. The brightest prospects they have are still in the top stack of MiLB prospects and can compete with many of the top 100. The brightest stars in their MiLB system are Carlos Alvarez (Esmailyn Gonzalez), Ross Detwiler, Collin Balester, Jack McGeary, J.D. Martin, Destin Hood, Chris Marrero and Michael Burgess. Detwiler will replace Zimmerman as the top pitching prospect in their system, and will flourish once he is inevitably converted to a closer in the mold of Billy Wagner. Destin Hood is a good athlete, but is super young and raw, and won't even sniff the MiLB until 2012 at least. Jack McGeary has good stuff and struck out 64 batters in 59 ip in 2008, but needs much more experience. Alvarez (formerly Gonzalez) could be a .300 hitter in the majors some day, and will probably also be able to steal 30 or more bases. Now that J.D. Martin has been converted to a setup man, he is one of the top relief prospects in the MiLB. Collin Ballester has a very good curve, two good fastballs and a decent change and could be a solid (but not spectacular) MiLB pitcher by 2010. Both Marrero and Burgess have a ton of power and nice potential, but neither fields or makes good contact. They have a long way to go until they're MLB ready. Ian Desmond and Luke Montz are also prospects and both have power--neither are particularly good at making contact however. Montz will push for a backup catcher's role if Bard fails or gets injured while Desmond has a shot at some at MLB reps in the middle infield. Shairon Martis, Terrell Young, Alberto Gonzalez, Mike Hinkley, Anderson Hernandez and Jordan Zimmerman have all made the MLB roster for 2009.