7/19 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on July 20, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Atlanta Braves OF prospect Cody Johnson reclaimed the minor league HR lead by blasting his 24th yesterday, driving in two and scoring twice.  He also walked and stole his 9th base of the season.  Power is definitively his calling card, but it is nice to see him drawing more walks as of late and stealing bases.  The more that Johnson can distinguish himself as a multi-dimensional hitter, the more bullish I become about his major league future.  Johnson has already exceeded his walk totals from last season, drawing his 47th yesterday, and his K rate has slowed significantly during the month of July (13 BB/19 K).  On the flip side, Cody has posted his lowest batting average splits this month, hitting just .207 with 4 HR and 15 RBI.  I am not too concerned with this as he may be making mechanical adjustments and altering his aggressive approach.  I look at this as a positive sign for long term success.  The power potential is there for Johnson to be a perennial 30-40 HR hitter at the big league level and his overall potential reminds me of towering slugger and whiff machine Adam Dunn.  His walk rates are behind Dunn’s at this point, but at just 20 years old, there is plenty of time for Johnson to boost his totals.  Johnson’s first year autos have experienced bi-polar fluctuations over the past couple of seasons, rising to $20+ in 2007 and dropping to $8-10 during ‘08.  Currently, they are residing somewhere in the middle at $7-9 for his Bowman Sterling autos and $9-12 for his Bowman Chrome Draft autos.  I think that AA ball is going to be a huge litmus test for the former AFLAC All-American and we’ll likely have to wait until next season to see the effects of that.  As for this season, 30 HR 90 RBI and about 150 K’s seems to be solid locks.

Roger Kieschnick had four knocks yesterday including his 19th HR, four RBI and three runs scored.  Kieschnick’s big day snapped a 2-18 dry spell and raised his average to .296 and his RBI total to 74 on the season.  Similar to Johnson, Roger seems to be altering his approach at the plate to cut back on his K’s as his BB/K ratio for the month of July has been quite balanced (8 BB/10 K) but his batting average (.237) is more than 40 points lower than his previous season low.  I am much more an advocate of a balanced approach at the plate.  Strikeouts are not a major detractor from overall performance if the power numbers and OBP remains high.  Hitters like Ryan Howard, Adam Dunn, Carlos Pena and others have put up monster seasons despite big K numbers as they are able to also draw 80-100+ walks per season.  Kieschnick’s first year autos are quite affordable right now with prices for his Donruss Elite Extra, Razor Threads, and Playoff Rookie Ticket autos selling for $7-10 each.  I think Kieschnick’s power numbers will carry forward, but I am skeptical of his batting average totals.  The athletic outfielder’s flirtation with the .300 mark has more to do with the fact that he is currently in the California Leauge and amidst a talented lineup.  Perhaps his recent struggles can be attributed in part to the fact that Buster Posey has moved on to AAA. 

Today’s top prospect is another California League offensive benefactor, San Diego Padres 3B prospect James Darnell.  The former South Carolina Gamecock belted HR’s 12 and 13 yesterday, driving in four runs.  Darnell started slowly after his late June promotion, but has caught fire over the last 10 games, hitting .324 with four HR, eight RBI and seven runs scored.  Darnell’s plate discipline is extraordinary as he has a positive 68 BB/61 K ratio.  The Padres have a pleasant dilemma at the hot corner as both Darnell and AA star Logan Forsythe are both having stellar seasons.  Defensively, Forsythe is clearly superior as his excellent range, arm, and hands trump Darnell’s decent skills.  Darnell will likely have to move to the outfield where there is a plethora of talented prospects to compete with.  I think he’s a player that should play at both AA and AAA next year with a shot at earning a 2010 September debut, but it will be interesting to see exactly where he ends up as a pro.  His first year autos from the 2008 Donruss Elite Extra, Playoff Contenders, and Razor sets are all quite affordable right now at $3-8 each and serve as excellent sleeper buys for next season.

High-A Player of the Day—JAMES DARNELL

Other Notable Performances:

Hitting:

• Michael Bianucci—2-4 HR(16) RBI 2B 2R
• Roger Kieschnick—4-5 HR(19) 4 RBI 3R
• Conor Gillaspie—3-5 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Thomas Neal—2-6 2 2B 2R
• Darren Ford—2-4 2B R RBI
• C.J. Ziegler—5-5 2B 2R RBI
• Tyson Gillies—2-4 2B
• Joe Dunigan—1-3 HR(22) 2 RBI
• Jake Rife—3-4 2B 2 RBI
• Jay Brossman—1-3 2R 2B 2 RBI BB
• Jemile Weeks—3-5 2 2B R
• Grant Desme—2-4 2B 3R RBI BB
• Jermaine Mitchell—3-4 2 RBI R SB(10)
• Jon Gaston—2-4 HR(23) 2 RBI 2R
• James Shuck—2-5 3R
• Brian Barnes—1-3 3R RBI 2 BB
• Koby Clemens—3-5 2B 3 RBI
• James Darnell—3-5 2 HR(13) 3 RBI 2R
• Matt Clark—2-5 2 HR(15) 2 RBI 2R
• Christan Lara—3-5 HR(5) 2 RBI SB(11)
• Pedro Baez—2-4 2B R SB(5)
• Radamez Nazario—3-4 2B 2R RBI
• Pedro Florimon Jr.—2-4 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Derrick Robinson—2-5 R RBI SB(46)
• Johnny Giavotella—2-5 RBI 2 SB(16)
• Eric Huber—1-4 2B 4 RBI
• Alex Presley—3-5 2B 2R
• Cody Johnson—1-3 HR(24) 2 RBI 2R BB SB(9)
• Dominic Brown—2-3 2 RBI BB
• Arlon Quiroz—3-4 R SB(15)
• Derrick Mitchell—2-4 2B HR(7) RBI
• Brad McElroy—3-5 2R SB(4)
• John Tolisano—1-3 R RBI 2 BB
• Manny Rodriguez—2-4 HR(5) 4 RBI BB
• Logan Schafer—3-5 2B 2R
• Lee Haydel—1-4 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Damon Sublett—2-5 2B BB
• Austin Romine—1-4 2B R RBI BB
• Chris Swauger—2-2 HR(9) 3 RBI BB

Pitching:

• Nick Additon—6.1 IP 7H 4 ER 2 BB 8K
• Darren Byrd—6 IP 4H ER 3K W (2-3)
• Jeff Mandel—7 IP 5H Er BB 6K W (8-4)

5/17 High-A Minor League Report **500th Post!**

Posted by Jeremy on May 19, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Read the First Comment

Today’s a milestone day for PPR as, in just under a year, we have crossed the 500 post threshold.  Thank you again to all of you who have faithfully read this blog and watched it evolved over the past year.  I hope that you have all learned a bit over that time and have enjoyed reading about our bright young prospects as much as I have enjoyed bringing them to you.

Yesterday’s action at the High-A ranks saw the trio of Seattle Mariners prospects Edilio Colina, Alex Liddi, and Joe Dunigan combine for 9 hits and 6 RBI while Florida’s Michael Stanton rapped three more hits.  Tampa Bay’s RHP Joshua Butler improved his record to 5-0 by tossing seven shutout innings, allowing just three hits and outdueling New York Yankees ‘08 draftee Jeremy Bleich.

Today’s top prospect is the #1 prospect of the Philadelphia Phillies, Dominic Brown.  The lanky and super-athletic OF was 3-5 with two doubles, three RBI and his 9th stolen base.  Brown’s bat has heated up considerably over the month of May hitting .385 with 3 HR 15 RBI and 15 runs scored in just 15 games.  Already at 6 HR this season, Brown should apex last year’s total of 9 dingers by mid season.  Couple that with his outstanding plate discipline and continued physical projectibility and you have an All-Star in the making.  Brown’s various 2008 autos can be had for as low as $10-12 each and should be bought in copious quantities.  He should earn a promotion to AA at some point this summer and is a candidate to make his MLB debut by the end of 2010.

High-A Player of the Day—DOMINIC BROWN

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Mitch Moreland—3-5 RBI
• Ed Easley—3-4 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Collin Cowgill—2-4 2R RBI
• Jhoan Pimentel—3-4 2B 2RBI R
• Keoni Ruth—3-5 2R SB(4)
• Clay Fuller—3-5 2R
• Julian Perez—3-5 2 2B 3R 2 RBI
• Jeremy Moore—3-3 3B 3 RBI R
• Angel Villalona—1-4 HR(5) 2 RBI
• Jermaine Mitchell—2-4 2R RBI BB
• Matt Smith—3-5 2B 3 RBI R
• Christian Vitters—1-3 3B 4 RBI B
• Joe Dunigan—2-4 2R BB
• Alex LIddi—2-5 HR(9) 4 RBI 2R
• Brent Morel—2-4 2B RBI
• Jason Place—2-4 2B 3R 2 RBI BB
• Che Hsuan Lin—2-4 HR(1) 5 RBI BB 2R
• Luis Exposito—2-4 RBI R BB
• Michael Jones—2-4 3R RBI
• Brandon Waring—2-3 HR(5) 2 RBI BB
• Jason Heyward—2-4 HR(7) 2 RBI 2R
• Derrick Robinson—3-5 2B 2 RBI R SB(18)
• Johnny Giavotella—3-5 2 RBI
• Mike Moustakas—1-5 HR(6) RBI
• Dominic Brown—3-5 2 2B 3 RBI R SB(9)
• Fidel Hernandez—3-5 2B R RBI SB(4)
• Justin Henry—3-5 3B 2 RBI R SB(3)

Pitching:

• Kenny Rodriguez—7 Ip 3H BB 7K W (2-1)
• Zach Britton—6 IP 4H 2 BB 6K W (1-1)
• Tyson Ross—3.1 IP 2H BB 7K
• Wynn Pelzer—6.2 IP 3H Er 2 BB 10K W (5-1)

5/6 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on May 7, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Offense was as plentiful in the California League as was rain in the Carolina League.  Top prospects from all leagues put up monster performances, making today’s report an exceptional pleasure to produce.  Angel Villalona is proving that he was ready for the challenges of High-A ball by smacking his fourth HR as part of a perfect 4-4 day with three RBI, two doubles and four runs scored.  Michael Burgess hit HR number six and drove in three and Mitch Moreland and Reese Havens also hit their sixth dingers.  Dodgers young prospect Edgardo Baez belted two HR’s as did Kirk Nieuwenhuis.

As good as these performances were, they paled in comparison to what both M’s OF prospect Joe Dunigan and Astros OF prospect Jonathan Gaston did.  Each slugger belted three HR’s and drove in seven runs.  Gaston’s came as part of a five hit, four run day and Dunigan’s HR’s tied him with Iowa’s Jake Fox for top spot in MiLB.

Gaston had a miserable start to his professional career after being selected in the seventh round of the ‘08 draft.  He batted just .193 with 2 HR and 25 RBI in 62 games at short season Tri Cities.  Plate discipline was a problem with him, but was not an issue during his tenure with the University of Arizona.  Gaston’s power outburst this season (.273 9 HR 20 RBI) is a little intriguing and worth watching.  His previous season high was 12 with the Wildcats in ‘08.  A factor to consider in this is the fact that he is a left handed hitter who plays his home games in Lancaster’s power-friendly confines.  This season, it appears that he has regained his strike zone judgement, which will only benefit him going forward.

Joe Dunigan also had his fair share of struggles in ‘08, playing at Low-A Wisconsin (.240 14 HR 58 RBI 28 SB and 31 doubles).  Dunigan’s plate discipline was also a detriment as he struck out 142 times in 119 games.  This season, he is tearing the cover off of the ball, hitting .390 with a league leading 12 HR 30 RBI and 6 SB.  Dunigan is powerfully built and has good speed.  He played in the OF and 1B last season and should be able to hit his way into a major league lineup.  As good as things are going, his 9 BB/27 K in 25 games is still a concern as he will not be able to maintain a .300 batting average employing a free-swinging approach at the plate.  However, the blend of power and speed numbers is an increasingly rare commodity these days, making Dunigan an under the radar guy to watch once his first year cards come out.

High-A Players of the Day—JOE DUNIGAN & JONATHAN GASTON

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Dave Thomas—1-3 HR(6) RBI
• Collin Cowgill—3-4 2R 3 RBI
• Ryne White—2-3 2B 2R 2 BB
• P.J. Phillips—1-4 HR(2) RBI 2R 2 BB
• Charlie Blackmon—3-5 2B 2R 3 RBI
• Brian Rike—3-4 2 RBI 2B R
• Hector Gomez—1-4 2B 2 RBI R BB
• Maikol Gonzalez—3-3 2B 2R 2 RBI BB SB(2)
• James Shuck—3-6 2B 2R RBI
• Marcos Cabral—3-4 4R 2B 2 BB
• James Castro—3-6 2B R 2 RBI
• Chris Minaker—3-6 3 2B 3R 2 RBI
• Craig Corrado—4-6 2B R RBI SB(5)
• Yefri Carvajal—3-4 2B 2 RBI
• Logan Forsythe—1-2 HR(3) RBI 2R 2 BB
• Trayvon Robinson—3-6 RBI SB(6)
• Steven Caseres—2-5 HR(4) 3 RBI 2R BB
• Edgardo Baez—3-6 2 HR(4) 3 RBI 2R SB(2)
• Tyson Gillies—3-6 HR(2) RBI BB 2B
• Joe Dunigan—4-7 3 HR(12) 7 RBI 3R
• Jonathan Gaston—5-5 3 HR(9) 7 RBI 4R
• Carlos Peguaro—1-6 HR(2) 3 RBI
• Alex Liddi—1-3 2R 2 BB
• Nick Noonan—4-6 3B R 2 RBI
• Brandon Crawford—2-6 2R
• Angel Villalona—4-4 HR(4) 3 RBI 2 2B 4R
• Roger Kieschnick—2-4 2R 3B BB
• Mitch Moreland—1-3 HR(6) RBI BB
• Timmy Smith—3-4 R
• Michael Burgess—3-3 HR(6) 3 RBI 2B
• Chris Marrero—2-3 2R
• David Espinosa—1-4 HR(4) RBI
• Mike Moustakas—3-4 2B
• Eric Farris—3-5 2B RBI SB(14)
• Caleb Gindl—1-3 2B R 2 BB
• Dominic Brown—2-4 2B 3B BB
• Eric Fryer—2-4 2B RBI R SB(6)
• John Tolisano—2-5 3B R SB(3)
• Raul Barron—2-3 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Andy Dirks—3-3 2B 2 RBI BB
• Kody Kaiser—2-4 2R HR(3) RBI BB
• Yonder Alonso—3-5 R RBI
• Kirk Nieuwenhuis—2-3 2 HR(5) 3 RBI
• Reese Havens—1-3 HR(6) RBI BB
• Hector Pellot—2-3 HR(2) 2 RBI BB 2R

Pitching:

• Brad Holt—6 IP 2H 2 BB 5K W (2-1)
• Jeff Mandel—6 IP 3H ER 2 BB 2K W (3-1)
• Clayton Tanner—5 IP 4H UER 2 BB 4K W (2-0)
• Kyle Drabek—6.1 IP 6H ER BB 9K
• Alex Cobb—6 IP 5H ER BB 3K W (1-2)
• Dellin Betances—6 IP 6H ER 2 BB 4K W (2-3)

5/3 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on May 4, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Reese Havens and Yonder Alonso each hit their fifth HR’s of the season and Caleb Gindl added his fourth.  Ryan Kalish and Brandon Laird went deep for the second time this spring and Evan Anundsen won his third game. 

Today’s top prospect in the High-A ranks is San Francisco Giants young RHP Tim Alderson.  The 6-7 20 year old has struggled in the early going, but his seven innings of five hit, two run ball was good enough to net him his first win of the 2009 season.  Alderson has been overshadowed somewhat by the stellar pitching of San Jose teammate Madison Bumgarner, but make no mistake, Alderson has the control and velocity to be a frontline pitcher in the near future and should be an integral cog in San Francisco’s promising young staff in about two years.

High-A Player of the Day—TIM ALDERSON

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Dominic Brown—2-4 2B R RBI
• John Tolisano—2-4 2B BB 2 RBI
• Brandon Laird—1-4 HR(2) 2 RBI
• Greg Sexton—2-4 2 2B R RBI
• Reese Havens—3-5 HR(5) 3 RBI
• Yonder Alonso—1-5 HR(5) 3 RBI
• Caleb Gindl—1-4 HR(4) RBI
• Eric Farris—1-4 HR(1) RBI SB(3)
• Brent Brewer—1-3 2B R RBI 2 SB(8)
• Miles Durham—3-4 2B HR(1) RBI 3R
• Jason Castro—2-3 2 RBI BB
• Trevor Harbin—2-4 2 RBI R SB(3) (Game 1)…..2-3 HR(2) 3 RBI (Game 2)
• Ryan Kalish—1-4 HR(2) RBI
• Kris Negron—3-4 2B RBI
• Kenley Janson—2-4 HR(1) 4 RBI 2B 2R
• Scott Vanslyke—2-4 2 2B RBI R
• Darren Ford—2-4 3R RBI BB
• Brandon Crawford—2-4 R RBI BB
• Nick Noonan—2-5 2 RBI R
• Cole Gillaspie—2-4 2B 2 RBI
• Tim Smith—1-3 HR(3) RBI 2R 2 BB
• David Thomas—2-5 2 2B R
• Michael Stanton—1-2 2B RBI 2 BB

Pitching:

• Nick Additon—6 Ip 0H 3 BB 4K
• Ryan Searle—5 IP 2H BB 5K
• Willin De La Rosa—5 IP 5H 2 ER BB 7K
• Evan Anundsen—5 IP 3H Er BB 4K W (3-2)
• Tim Alderson—7 IP 5H 2 ER 6K W (1-1)

4/29 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 30, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Matt Spencer homered for the fifth time and drove in five runs while Mariners OF prospect Joe Dunigan blasted two HR’s to up his total to seven for the season.  Lonnie Chisenhall continues to swing a hot bat, hitting his fourth and driving in two and Dominic Brown’s bat is starting to show life as he hit his second.  Jupiter’s Jeff Allison tossed a six innings gem allowing just one hit and striking out eight.  His start to the ‘09 season is one of baseball’s more triumphant stories as it looks like he is making great strides in his recovery from drug addiction.

Today’s top prospect is Kinston Indians 1B Matt McBride.  The 23 year old Lehigh alum blasted two HR and four RBI while scoring three times.  Last season, McBride played at three different levels but only accrued 165 AB as injuries cut into his production.  This past fall he participated in the Hawaiian Winter League where his .285 BA with 3 HR 22 RBI and 11 doubles in 33 games.  McBride has a solid build and excellent plate discipline that allows for him to put up potentially excellent power numbers with a high OBP.  Yesterday’s performance boosted McBride’s ‘09 season line to .405 with 5 HR 25 RBI 10 doubles and 17 runs scored in his first 20 games.

High-A Player of the Day—MATT MCBRIDE

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Darren Ford—2-4 HR(2) RBI 2B
• Buster Posey—2-4 2B RBI
• Joe Dunigan 2-4 2 HR(7) 2 RBI
• Adolfo Gonzalez—2-3 HR(1) 2 RBI 2B
• Felix Carrasco—2-3 HR(3) 4 RBI 2B
• Beamer Weems—2-5 2B RBI R
• Danny Payne—2-2 R RBI 3 BB
• Jeremy Moore—2-3 HR(2) 2 RBI BB 2R
• Efren Navarro—4-5 2B 2R RBI
• Ed Easley—3-5 R RBI
• Matt Spencer—2-5 HR(5) 5 RBI
• Lonnie Chisenhall—1-3 HR(4) 2 RBI BB 2R
• Matt McBride—3-4 2 HR(5) 4 RBI 3R
• Jordan Danks—2-4 2B 2R BB RBI
• Christian Marrero—3-4 2 2B 2R RBI
• Brent Morel—1-3 HR(5) 2 RBI 2R BB SB(7)
• Cody Johnson—1-4 HR(8) 2 RBI
• Ben Revere—3-5 R SB(11)
• Curt Smith—2-4 HR(4) RBI
• Greg Sexton—2-4 HR(1) 3 RBI BB
• Mark Thomas—3-4 2 2B 2R RBI
• Darin Mastroianni—2-4 R RBI SB(15)
• Dominic Brown—1-4 HR(2) RBI
• Michael Durant—2-2 HR(1) 3 RbI
• Ike Davis—3-6 2B 2R

Pitching:

• Brant Rustich—5 IP H BB 7K
• Angel Calero—6 IP 3H ER BB 7K
• Jeff Allison—6 IP H 2 BB 8K
• Bryan Morris—6 IP 3H 2 UER BB 4K W (1-2)
• Edgar Osuna—7 IP 6H ER 8K W (2-2)
• Mike McCardell—7 IP 5H ER 4K W (2-2)
• David Kopp—5 IP 3H 4K

4/28 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 29, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

There were performances-a-plenty that could be found merely in San Jose’s 17 run barrage against Lancaster.  Speedster Darren Ford racked up four hits and five RBI, Buster Posey hit his fifth HR, Conor Gillaspie racked up four hits and five RBI, Roger Kieschnick added three hits and three RBI and, oh yeah, Thomas Neal hit for the cycle and scored four runs.  In other action, Yefri Carvajal hit his third HR, Logan Forsythe and Luis Exposito each hit their second and Jesus Montero blasted two dingers. 

None of these performances can hold a candle to the performance of 20 year old Brewers prospect Evan Anundsen who went the distance in a no-hit effort against Daytona walking just one and striking out 10.  Andundsen has accrued a 2-2 record with a 1.44 ERA and 8 BB/25 K in his first four starts.  Anundsen is a finesse-type pitcher with a fastball that sits in the high 80’s, a curve and change.  He induces a great number of ground ball outs (2.71/FO in ‘08) and efficiently controls the strike zone.  There aren’t any cards of Anundsen’s out right now and, while this performance was truly dominant, he doesn’t profile as a dominant front-line pitcher at the major league level.  Regardless, when 2009 is all said and done, this performance will go down as one of the season’s best.

High-A Player of the Day—EVAN ANUNDSEN

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Darren Ford—4-7 2B 5 RBI
• Buster Posey—2-6 HR(5) RBI
• Thomas Neal—4-5 (CYCLE) HR(4) 2B 3B RBI 4R BB
• Conor Gillaspie—4-5 2 2B 4 RBI 3R BB
• Roger Kieschnick—3-5 3 RBI 2R 3B BB
• Alex Liddi—4-5 2B 2R
• Kuo Hui Lo—2-4 2B 2 RBI BB R
• Steven Caseres—3-4 3R
• Christian Lara—3-4 HR(1) 3 RBI 3R
• Logan Forsythe—2-3 HR(2) RBI 2R 2 BB
• Yefri Carvajal—1-5 HR(3) 2 RBI
• Jeremy Moore—3-4 RBI SB(3)
• Andrew Romine—2-4 2B R RBI
• Kyle Greene—2-4 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R
• Charlie Blackmon—3-6 3B R SB(6)
• Mitch Moreland—3-5 HR(4) 2 RBI BB
• Kraig Binick—3-5 HR(3) 3 RBI SB(6)
• Kyle Shelton—2-3 2 2B 3R
• Luis Exposito—1-3 HR(2) 2 RBI BB
• Tim Fedroff—3-4 RBI R
• Matt McBride—2-4 RBI R
• Pedro Alvarez—2-6 R 2 RBI
• Cody Johnson—1-4 HR(7) RBI
• Johnny Giavotella—2-5 3B 2R
• Jeff Bianchi—2-3 RBI R BB SB(4)
• David Espinosa—2-3 HR(1) 2 RBI BB
• Michael Burgess—2-4 R SB(5)
• Jesus Montero—2-4 2 HR(4) 2 RBI 2R
• Caleb Gindl—2-3 RBI BB
• Ben Revere—3-4 RBI 2 BB SB(10)
• Curt Smith—3-6 2 RBI
• Shane Peterson—3-6 2B R SB(1)
• Greg Sexton—2-3 2 RBI BB R
• Fidel Hernandez—4-6 3R
• Dominic Brown—3-4 3B 3 RBI BB
• Freddy Galvis—2-5 2B 2R BB
• John Tolisano—2-5 HR(1) 2 RBI 2R
• Eric Thames—2-4 2B 2R RBI
• Ike Davis—1-2 HR(1) RBI 2 BB
• Kirk Nieuwenhuis—3-5 HR(2) 2 RBI 2B 2R

Pitching:

• Jeremy Horst—6 IP 5H 2 BB 5K
• David Newmann—5.1 IP 3H ER 2 BB 9K
• Tyler Robertson—4 IP 2H 2 ER 4 BB 5K
• Evan Anundsen—9 IP 0H BB 10K W(2-2)
• Wilkin De La Rosa—5 IP 3H BB 7K W(1-0)
• Tim Bascom—6 IP 7H 2 ER 2K W(2-2)
• Chris Withrow—5 IP 6H 3 ER 3 BB 7K W(2-1)
• Patrick McAneney—5 IP 3H BB 7K W(3-0)
• Michael Kirkman—6 IP 6H 2 ER BB 4K

4/23 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 24, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Michael Stanton and Matt Dominguez homered in yesterday’s games as did Dominic Brown, Lonnie Chisenhall, Felix Carrasco, Charlie Blackmon, Thomas Neal, and Brandon Crawford.  Tyler Robertson looks like his is on the comeback trail as he tossed five scoreless innings to earn his first win of ‘09 and Duane Below tossed a hitless five innings allowing an unearned run and striking out seven.

Today’s top High-A player is Michael Burgess.  The former 1st round pick has struggled mightily this season (.163 BA), but he belted his fourth HR of the season, driving in five and walking and scoring twice.  Burgess has enormous power potential but is still learning how to reign in his plate discipline.  The left handed slugger has walked seven time in his last ten games though, which gives reason to believe that he could make some progress as the season goes on.

High-A Player of the Day—MICHAEL BURGESS

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Clay Fuller—2-4 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R 2B BB SB(6)
• Matthew Sweeney—2-5 3B R RBI
• Julio Perez—3-5 2B RBI R
• Brandon Crawford—2-4 HR(5) 3 RBI BB
• Roger Kieschnick—2-5 2 2B 2R
• Thomas Neal—3-5 HR(2) 4 RBI 2B 2R
• Charlie Blackmon—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Matt Spencer—2-3 2R 2 BB 2 SB(3)
• Timmy Smith—3-4 HR(2) 4 RBI 2B 2R
• Alex Presley—1-5 HR(1) 2 RBI 2R
• Jordy Mercer—1-3 R 2 BB SB(2)
• Kris Watts—2-5 HR(2) 2 RBI 2R
• Tim Fedroff—4-5 2 2B 3B 3R RBI
• Lonnie Chisenhall—2-5 2B HR(3) 3 RBI
• Michael Burgess—2-3 HR(4) 5 RBI 2 BB 2R
• David Espinosa—2-5 2B R RBI BB SB(6)
• Greg Paimi—2-4 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Kris Negron—3-4 2 HR(2) 4 RBI 2R
• Eric Fryer—2-4 2B 2R RBI BB
• Jesus Montero—2-4 R 3 RBI
• Dominic Brown—2-4 HR(1) 3 RBI 2R SB(4)
• Freddy Galvis—2-4 3R BB 2 SB(2)
• Mike Gosse—2-5 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Ben Revere—2-5 R RBI 2 SB(7)
• Joe Benson—1-3 2B R RBI BB
• Deibinson Romero—2-3 2R BB
• Matthew Hall—1-2 R 2 BB 2 SB(2)
• Reese Havens—1-2 2B R 2 BB
• Matt Dominguez—1-3 HR(1) 2 RBI BB
• Michael Stanton—1-4 HR(4) RBI

Pitching:

• Alejandro Sanabia—5 IP 4H ER 2 BB 6K
• Tyler Robertson—5 IP 5H BB 5K W(1-0)
• Duane Below—5 IP 0H UER 2 BB 7K W(1-1)
• Wilkin De La Rosa—4 IP H 2 BB 3K
• Wynn Pelzer—5 IP H ER 2 BB 4K W(2-0)
• Bryan Olan—1.2 IP BB 3K SV(4)
• Scott Barnes—5 IP 5H 2 ER 2 BB 5K W(2-1)
• Bruce Billings—5 IP 4H BB 5K W(1-2)
• Seth Garrison—6 IP 4H ER 6K W(1-0)

4/23 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on April 23, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

CALIFORNIA LEAGUE

Brandon Crawford, Alex Liddi, and Matt Spencer all hit their fourth HR’s of the season and Madison Bumgarner allowed just one run over five innings to go a perfect 3-0 for the 2009 season.  Chris Withrow punched out 10 over just five innings but lost to today’s player of the day Chris Hicks. 

The Astros right hander tossed five innings of scoreless ball, allowing just five hits while striking out nine.  Hicks, 21, is now 2-1 on the season with a 3.07 ERA and 18 K’s in 14.2 IP.  Used almost exclusively as a reliever last season, Hicks has proven to be quite adept at forcing groundball outs this season (2.57/FO) and has exhibited good control.  At 6-4 205 lb., he appears to have a nice durable frame capable of handling a steady workload.

California League Player of the Day—CHRIS HICKS

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Alex Liddi—3-4 HR(4) 3 RBI 2B
• James McOwen—3-5 2R SB(1)
• Joe Dunigan—4-4 HR(3) 2 RBI 2B
• Kuo Hui Lo—2-4 HR(1) RBI 3B 2R
• Matt Spencer—3-4 2B HR(4) RBI 3R BB
• Jermaine Mitchell—2-4 HR(1) RBI
• Brandon Crawford—1-4 HR(4) 2 RBI
• Buster Posey—2-4 R RBI
• Roger Kieschnick—1-3 HR(2) 2 RBI
• Engel Beltre—1-4 2B 2R RBI BB SB(5)
• Mitch Moreland—1-4 HR(2) RBI 2 BB 2R
• Mauro Gomez—3-6 HR(3) 6 RBI 2B
• Collin Cowgill—2-5 R SB(3)
• Scott Vanslyke—4-5 2B 3B 2R

Pitching:

• Nathan Adcock—6 IP 4H BB 4K W(2-1)
• Madison Bumgarner—5 IP 5H ER 5K W(3-0)
• Chris Withrow—5 IP 3H Er 2 BB 10 K L(1-1)
• Chris Hicks—5 IP 5H 2 BB 9K W(2-1)

CAROLINA LEAGUE

Jason Place continues to make positive strides in his development as he hit his second HR and drove in three runs.  Teammate Chi-Hsien Chiang had nice back to back outings combining to go 4-7 with a HR, three RBI and three runs scored.  Jordan Danks had three hits, driving in two and scoring twice.

Today’s player of the day in the Carolina League is Cleveland Indians 3B prospect Lonnie Chisenhall.  For the second straight day, Chisenhall homered and drove in five runs.  The Indians’ 2008 first round selection has an eight game hitting streak and is beginning to demonstrate the promising power potential and plate discipline that made him a top draft choice last June.

Carolina League Player of the Day—LONNIE CHISENHALL

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Jason Place—2-4 HR(2) 3 RBI BB 2B 2R
• Chih-Hsien Chiang—2-4 HR(1) 3 RBI BB 2R (Game 1)…2-3 R (Game 2)
• Kris Negron—2-4 R RBI SB(2)
• Clint Robinson—2-3 2 HR(2) 2 RBI BB 2R (Game 1)…1-4 HR(3) RBI (Game 2)
• David Lough—3-4 2 RBI
• Lonnie Chisenhall—2-5 GS HR(2) 5 RBI 2B BB
• Cord Phelps—2-4 2B BB R
• Freddie Freeman—2-5 2B 2R
• Michael Fisher—3-4 2R BB
• Jordan Danks—3-4 2 RBI 2R BB SB(3)
• Brent Morel—2-4 R BB SB(5)

Pitching:

• Ronal Uviedo—5 IP 2H 5K
• Zack Britton—5 IP 4H ER 2 BB 4K

FLORIDA STATE LEAGUE

Matt Dominguez and Michael Stanton combined to go 4-7 with four runs and three walks.  Osvaldo Martinez, Alex Buchholz, Eric Thames and Reid Fronk each pounded out three hits and Shawn O’Malley had four hits and three runs scored. 

Today’s FSL top player is Jupiter Hammerheads pitcher Kyle Winters.  One day after his 22nd birthday, the ‘05 fifth rounder tossed seven two-hit innings walking one and striking out two.  Winters has allowed just one run in his first 19 innings of 2009 (0.47 ERA)  He is a control pitcher who gets a lot of groundball outs and has made some improvements, thusfar, in controlling the strike zone.

Florida State League Player of the Day—KYLE WINTERS

 
Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Matt Dominguez—2-4 2B 3R BB
• Michael Stanton—2-3 R RBI 2 BB
• Osvaldo Martinez—3-4 2 3B 2R BB
• Cole Gillespie—2-2 R 2 BB SB(4)
• Austin Romine—2-4 2B 2R
• Dominic Brown—2-3 BB R SB(3)
• Kody Kaiser—2-3 BB R SB(3)
• Audy Ciraco—2-4 HR(1) 2 RBI 2B 2R
• Marwin Gonzalez—3-5 2B 2R
• Jovan Rosa—2-2 2B 2 RBI
• Eric Thames—3-4 2B 3B RBI 2R
• Jermaine Curtis—3-4 RBI
• Deibinson Romero—2-3 2R 2B RBI
• Alex Buchholz—3-5 2B 3B 2 RBI
• Reid Fronk—3-5 2B RBI
• Shawn O’Malley—4-5 2B 3B RBI 3R

Pitching:

• Kyle Winters—7 IP 2 H BB 2K W(1-0)
• Andrew Hess—5 Ip 6H 4K W(1-0)
• David Bromberg—6 IP 4H ER 2 BB 3K W(1-0)

4/15 High-A Minor League Baseball

Posted by Jeremy on April 16, 2009 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

CALIFORNIA LEAGUE

Timmy Smith’s 5-5 day and even Buster Posey’s 3-3 day that included a HR, double, three runs and two RBI were not enough to win top player honors.  Juan Ramirez surrendered just one hit over 5.1 innings and Alexander Torres did the same in five innings while striking out seven, but even those performances were not enough to out do teammates Jonathan Gaston and Brian Pellegrini who combined to hit six HR, nine RBI and score six runs.

California League Players of the Day Jon Gaston & Brian Pellegrini

Other Notable Performances:

• Brian Rike—2-4 2B RBI R
• Radamez Nazario—3-3 2B R BB
• Carlos Hernandez—6 IP 5H ER BB 3K
• Tyson Gillies—2-4 2R 2B BB SB(2)
• Alex Liddi—3-4 2 2B 3B 2R
• James McOwen—1-4 HR(1) 2 RBI BB
• Juan Ramirez—5.1 IP H 3 BB K W(2)
• Jeremy Hefner—5 IP 6h 3 ER 9K L(2)
• Timmy Smith—5-5 2B 2R RBI SB(2)
• Ian Gac—2-5 2B 2R RBI
• Matt Lawson—3-5 HR(2) RBI
• Angel Villalona—2-4 2B 2R RBI
• Brandon Crawford—1-3 2 BB 2 SB(2)
• Buster Posey—3-3 HR(3) 2 RBI 2B 3R 2 BB SB(1)
• Conor Gillespie—1-3 R 2 BB
• Eduardo Perez—3-4 2B R
• Trayvon Robinson—2-5 2B
• Kenly Jansen—2-4 R
• Garett Green—2-3 RBI
• Jonathan Gaston—4-5 3 HR(4) 5 RBI 3R
• Brian Pellegrini—3-5 3 HR(5) 4 RBI 3R
• Eric Taylor—3-4 2B 3 RBI SB(1)
• Jason Castro—2-5 2R 3B RBI
• Jose Duran—5 IP 9H ER 2 BB 3K W(1)
• Ed Easley—1-3 2B 2R 2 BB
• Matthew Sweeney—2-3 2B RBI R BB
• Andrew Romine—1-4 R SB(3)
•  Jeremy Moore—2-4 2B
• Alexander Torres—5 IP H 2 BB 7K

FLORIDA STATE LEAGUE

Logan Schafer had a nice double header, combining for four hits, a HR and three RBI.  Matt Rizzotti drove in four with two runs scored and Deolis Guerra threw a scorless five inning start.  The hands down player of the day in the FSL is none other than Phillies RHP Kyle Drabek who surrendered four hits over seven scoreless innings striking out nine for his second win of the season.  Drabek is rocketing along his comeback trail and is quickly becoming the top prospect Philly thought he would be.

Florida State League Player of the Day—KYLE DRABEK

Other Notable Performances:

• Jesus Montero—1-3 2B R
• Matt Cusick—1-2 2 RBI BB R
• Logan Schafer—2-3 RBI SB(1) (Gm 1)…2-4 HR(1) 2 RBI R (Gm 2)
• Lee Haydel—1-3 2B R
• Zelous Wheeler—1-3 RBI R
• Steffan Wilson—2-3 R
• Ryan Zink—5 IP 4H ER 3K W(1)
• Caleb Gindl—2-3 3B
• Cole Gillespie—1-3 2B R
• Brent Brewer—2-3 R RBI
• Kyle Drabek—7 IP 4H 9K W(2)
• Dominic Brown—2-5 2B R
• Matt Rizzotti—2-2 2B 4 RBI 2R
• Derrick Mitchell—2-4 HR(1) RBI 2R
• Freddy Galvis—2-4 2R RBI BB
• Tim Kennelly—2-4 R RBI
• Michael Stanton—2-4
• Matt Dominguez—1-3 2B
• Rene Leveret—3-3 2B RBI R
• Deolis Guerra—5 IP 3H BB 4K W(1)
• Ben Revere—1-3 R SB(2)
• Carlos Gutierrez—5 IP 4H ER 3K
• Ike Davis—3-4 2B RBI R
• Brad Holt—6 IP 4H BB 7K W(1)
• Alex Cobb—5.2 IP 6H 2 UER BB 4K L(1)
• Eric Thames—1-4 2B R RBI
• Kevin Ahrens—1-4 2B RBI
• Tim Collins—3 IP 0H 6K W(1)
• Alex Buchholz—2-4 2 2B R
• Pete Kozma—2-3 2B 2R 2 RBI BB SB(1)
• Curt Smith—1-3 3B RBI BB
• Lance Lynn—4 IP 2H 2 BB 3K

CAROLINA LEAGUE

Mike Moustakas’ bat is starting to heat up and Christian Marrero, Brent Morel, Jeff Bianchi, Billy Rowell, and Jordy Mercer all hit their first HR’s yesterday.  Danny Duffy continues to look like a dominant LHP, tossing five shutout innings with six K’s and Red Sox prospects Jason Place and Luis Exposito combined to drive in and score four runs.  It was teammate Ryan Kalish who takes home top player honors, though, with his first HR, two RBI and four runs scored.

Carolina League Player of the Day—RYAN KALISH

Other Notable Performances:

• Christian Marrero—2-4 HR(1) RBI
• Brent Morel—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Jordy Mercer—1-4 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Jose De Los Santos—1-3 3R BB SB(5)
• Daniel Hague—2-4 2B RBI
• Pedro Alvarez—1-3 RBI
• Mike Moustakas—2-5 2R 2 RBI
• Derrick Robinson—1-3 R BB SB(5)
• Jeff Bianchi—2-5 HR(1) 3 RBI 2B
• Clint Robinson—2-4 RBI
• Lonnie Chisenhall—2-4 RBI
• Matt Brown—2-3 BB SB(1)
• Daniel Duffy—5 IP 3H BB 6K W(1)
• Billy Rowell—1-2 HR(1) RBI 2 BB
• Tyler Henson—1-3 2B RBI BB
• Pedro Florimon Jr.—1-4 2B 2R BB
• Jeff Locke—4 IP 2H 2 ER 3 BB 6K
• Ryan Kalish—2-3 HR(1) 2 RBI 4R 2 BB
• Jason Place—3-5 2B 2 RBI 3R
• Luis Exposito—2-5 2B R 3 RBI
• Michael Jones 3-5 3 RBI

Top 20 Outfield Prospects 2009 (Part 2)

Posted by Jeremy on March 11, 2009 under 2009 Top 20 Prospects | Be the First to Comment

I apologize for the long delay in getting to part two of the Top 20 OF Prospects list.  If you need a reveiw of the Top 10 on the list you can read it on this, click this link.  Picking up at #11 is a prospect that, prior to the beginning of last season, would have been easily in the top 5.  Jordan Schafer’s  50 game suspension for using HGH and a slow rebound bumps him down the list a little bit, but the 5-tool talent is still there and the opportunity to be a significant contributor to the Braves 2009 ballclub is a distinct reality.

11.) Jordan Schafer—Atlanta Braves

2008 Stats:

Strengths: Schafer is a true 5-tool prospect.  He has a fluid LH swing that eventually should generate 20-25 HR at the major league level.  His above average speed is used well on the bases and in the OF where his glove and arm make him a viable Gold Glove candidate.  He makes good contact and has shown the ability to draw walks

Weaknesses: The suspension was a big black mark on his development.  He failed to post the same numbers in his return that he demonstrated in 2007, leading to further skepticism regarding the authenticity of his breakout season. 

2009 Outlook: Schafer has handled things well since his return and should get a long look by the Braves this spring.  He is an integral part to the future of the organization and still possesses a skill set quite similar to that of St. Louis Cardinals prospect Colby Rasmus and Cleveland Indians All-Star OF Grady Sizemore.  Expect Schafer to get more seasoning in AAA at the start of the ‘09 season before earning a call up in the early summer months.

12.) Dominic Brown—Philadelphia Phillies

2008 Stats:

Strengths: Off the charts athletic ability and tools galore.  Brown has a build similar to Darryl Strawberry but exudes plate discipline and an ability to hit for a high batting average that is rarely seen in young hitters.  Brown has speed that fits well at the top of a lineup and he uses it well on the basepaths.  His long frame should build more strength, and with it, increased HR power. Though he has the ability to play CF, he will likely shift to RF as a pro due to his size and cannon arm.

Weaknesses: Not many.  Right now, the power is merely projectible at this point.  He often elects to employ a more conservative approach at the plate, driving the occasional pitch.  His game is quite similar at this point to Rockies prospect Dexter Fowler, making his future HR totals difficult to project.  If he does focus more on power, it is conceivable that he will run less and hopes of 20+ SB seasons could diminish.

2009 Outlook: Brown will continue to progress at High-A Clearwater, but now he is assuredly on the Phillies’ fast track.  Don’t be surprised to see him move to AA at some point this season to play alongside the statuesque Michael Taylor.  Brown’s future within the organization is extremely bright and he could find himself in the Top 5 of this list by the start of next season.

13.) Greg Halman—Seattle Mariners

2008 Stats:

Strengths: At 6-4 195 lb., Halman is a freakishly good athlete.  He possesses wiry strength and top-flight speed that should translate into being a 30 HR 30 SB threat at the major league level.  He has proven to be resiliant, battling against profound struggles in the early part of his professional career to have success at higher levels.  Defensively, Halman has the range to play CF, but the size, arm, and power potential to be a bonafide star in RF.

Weaknesses: Plate discipline is still a long way from being MLB-ready.  Halman struggles with working counts and recognizing off speed pitches.  This leads him to be slump prone at times and exploitable by more advanced pitchers.

2009 Outlook: Halman handled the challenges of two promotions last year with excellent results and has earned a starting nod as the Tacoma Rainiers’ opening day RF.  Expect him to stay for most the season at this level before earning a late summer call up (possibly post-Sept 1).  The Seattle Mariners are an organization undergoing a major transformation and Halman figures prominently in their future plans.

14.) Julio Borbon—Texas Rangers

2008 Stats:

Strengths: Superb top of the order bat that hits for a high average and good plate discipline.  Borbon uses his speed as a lethal weapon on the basepaths where he stole 53 bags last year.  Borbon has demonstrated a pleasing uptick in his XBH power last season and has the strength to hit 10-15 HR per year in the major leagues.  Defensively, the fleet footed Borbon is the best OF in Texas’ rich farm system.

Weaknesses: Borbon will never be a middle of the lineup producer.  He also needs to work on increasing his walk totals in order to optimize his potential as a leadoff hitter. 

2009 Outlook: He’ll start at AAA Oklahoma City with a chance of earning a late season callup by the Rangers.  Texas is flush with some solid OF’s right now including Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz, David Murphy, Marlon Byrd and Brandon Boggs.  Borbon offers something that none of them have–elite speed.  He is the leadoff hitter of the future for the Rangers and that future should begin in 2010.

15.) Aaron Hicks—Minnesota Twins

 2008 Stats:

Strengths: Tools across the board.  Hicks demonstrated excellent power, speed, plate discipline, and defense in his professional debut.  His athleticism is extremely advanced and projects to improve as he matures.  He has been clocked in the mid-90’s off of the mound, which speaks very well of his arm strength.

Weaknesses: At this time, the only downside is his limited professional exposure.  Hicks will need to prove that he can duplicate his performances in more advanced settings.

2009 Outlook: Hicks has assuredly earned a promotion to full season baseball and he should continue to perform quite well there.  With Ben Revere in the fold in CF, Hicks’ arm strength would be an asset in RF.  He will need to continue to develop his power numbers in order to keep up with the influx of 20+ HR hitters that man that position.  He projects to do so, but at this point, it’s merely a projection.  If he does boost his power numbers, Hicks could grace the top of this list in the near future.

16.) Austin Jackson—New York Yankees

2008 Stats:

Strengths: Above average athleticism and emerging raw power.  Jackson has quick hands and is slowly improving his feel for the strike zone.  Defensively, Jackson has enough range and more than enough arm strength to be a solid CF. 

Weaknesses: He is still overly aggressive at the plate, striking out way too much and working himself into pitching-adventageous counts.  He has a body frame that could build some bulk and lose speed as he ages making him more of a slugger than a runner.

2009 Outlook: A-Jack should start at AAA Scranton-Wilkes Barre and will make his MLB debut at some point in ‘09.  Brett Gardner and Melky Cabrera should occupy a majority of the time in CF, but neither is a sure bet to hold the position for a long period of time.  Any lapse by either one of them could expediently usher in the beginning of the Austin Jackson era in the Bronx.

17.) Ben Revere—Minnesota Twins

2008 Stats:

Strengths: Revere makes excellent contact with just about anything he hits, evoking comparisons to other batting champions Ichiro Suzuki and Tony Gwynn.  LIke those two, Revere has more power than he demonstrates and he should build upon his 2008 totals of 28 XBH make 5-10 clear the fences every year.  He is a smart player with excellent speed and plate discipline that should make him an elite top of the order hitter.  Defensively, Revere covers vast territory in CF and has good instincts.

Weaknesses: The lack of pop places him down on this list.  Though he doesn’t strike out much, Revere also doesn’t walk as much as a leadoff hitter should.  His arm strength has been a concern as well and may force him to move to LF in the future.

2009 Outlook: Flirting with .400 in his first full season of baseball should place Revere on the organization’s fast track.  He will start at High-A Fort Myers with a real shot of earning a promotion to AA New Britain at some point.  The Twins have a ton of speedy young talent sprinkled throughout their farm system, but Revere should earn a full time spot in the Metrodome within the next 2-3 seasons.

18.) Andrew Lambo—L.A. Dodgers

2008 Stats:

Strengths: Lambo has 25-30 HR per year power potential and his sweet left-handed swing has evoked comparisons to fellow Dodgers 1B James Loney.  Lambo hits well with runners on base, racking up big RBI totals and XBH numbers.  He has a very strong arm and enough athleticism to play a corner OF spot or 1B at the major league level. 

Weaknesses: He is a below average runner and tends to get overly aggressive at times at the plate, elevating his strikeout totals.  He has also had a history of off the field issues, but seems to have put some of those indiscretions behind him.

2009 Outlook: Lambo will begin at AA Chattanooga and should play there most of the year.  If he has a great deal of success, he may earn a call up in September for a few late season AB’s.  Expect his role with L.A. to increase significantly in 2010.

19.) Jose Tabata—Pittsburgh Pirates 

2008 Stats:

Strengths: Tabata has quick hands that create excellent bat speed and contact.  He has put on some considerable bulk over the past season (up to 215 lbs. now) which may indicate that he should become more of a slugger than a speedster.  His arm is strong enough to play RF and he has adaquate range for that position.

Weaknesses: Tabata is still working on his strike zone judgement.  He makes good contact, but doesn’t work counts enough for walk totals.  As he builds his power numbers, it will be more important for him to recognize when pitchers are throwing around him.  He has had some injury woes over the past couple of seasons, and given his weight gain, this can become an increasing nuisance.  Also, attitude issues plagued him as a Yankee prospect, but he has seemingly had an awakening since his trade to Pittsburgh and has thrived on the field.

2009 Outlook: The Pirates are trying to figure out what they have aside from Nate McLouth in the OF.  Andrew McCutchen is sure to take over the CF duties in the near future, but things may open up for Tabata if he can replicate his post-Yankees performance in ‘09.  At just 20 years old, there is plenty of time for the young OF to develop into an excellent offensive player.

20.) Daryl Jones—St. Louis Cardinals

2008 Stats:

Strengths: Jones’ rich assortment of tools matured into tangible skills last season.  He has excellent speed that he uses effectively on the basepaths and in the outfield.  His power numbers increased significantly, leading some to believe that he can be a 20 HR/20 SB player at the major league level.  He makes good contact at the plate and made some progress with his discipline at the plate.

Weaknesses: Jones still strikes out a little more than the Cardinals would like to see.  His jump from dismal ‘07 numbers to All-Star worthy ‘08 numbers, though done at two advanced levels, will need to be replicated again to confirm his status as a rapidly rising prospect.  With Colby Rasmus likley manning the CF position, Jones will need to demonstrate more power in order to hold down a corner OF spot.

2009 Outlook: He could find himslef in AAA Memphis for the beginning of the season as Rasmus’ replacement.  Watch the power numbers and the OBP numbers.  If he can continue his progress from last season, he may find himself wearing a Cardinals jersey in September.

At long last, there are the top 20 outfield prospects for 2009.  There are so many other good ones left to list and, of course, this list should look entirely different next year.  For your viewing pleasure, I will give you the next 10 OF prospects as I see them at this stage of the game.  Mind you, this was a difficult list to compile and I would love to see how your list would shake out…

21.) Michael Burgess—Big time power potential, but the K’s need to be cut back

22.) Nolan Reimold—Polished hitter and ready for the show.  At 25 however, he needs to make an impact soon

23.) Engel Beltre—Plate discipline is the only thing that keeps him away from the top 10

24.) Jaff Decker—Incredible debut and even more incredible bat…keep an eye on this one

25.) Gerardo Parra—Excellent top of the lineup skills and emerging power

26.) Desmond Jennings—Injuries keep this mega talent from cracking the top 20

27.) John Raynor—Super speedy and enough power to be a dangerous leadoff hitter.  Needs to cut the K’s.

28.) Josh Reddick—Power and a big time RF arm.  Needs to succeed at AA this season.

29.) Lorenzo Cain—AFL performance has opened some eyes.  Superb athlete that could rise quickly.

30.) Wendell Fairley—Showed plate discipline and power potential in debut.  Seems to have put attitude issues behind him.

That is indeed quite the list!  Next on the docket is the top 20 RHP prospects….stay tuned for this list, it will be a doozy!