PPR Mailbag: Chris Carter and Brett Wallace

Posted by Jeremy on August 12, 2009 under Readers Mailbag | Read the First Comment

 

I plucked these questions from a previous comments thread and thought they would make great mailbag discussion questions. Feel free to add your input and thank you Eric for the questions.

Question: Does Chris Carter have any future at 1B or is he a full-time DH when he hits the ML circuit?  Also, do you think Brett Wallace will have to move across the diamond to 1B or are they going to everything they can to keep him at 3B?

Answer: Carter’s defense has been an area of question for some time now, but a brief look at the numbers indicates that he has made measurable improvements this season.  Last year, Carter committed 10 errors in just 41 games at 1B at High-A Stockton, but this season he’s cut that down to seven errors in 98 games at 1B.  While I haven’t watched him in person (something I hope to rectify next season), he seems to be more agile and athletic than last year, as testified by his increased SB totals and better fielding statistics.  The A’s already have a potential Gold Glove 1B in Sean Doolittle, but the Virginia alum has been on the DL since late May and looks to be a future RF for the A’s.  I am quite optimistic that Carter will be the future 1B for the A’s by as soon as the middle of next season.

Brett Wallace is an adaquate defensive 3B prospect whose below average athleticism and mobility is compensated by a good work ethic and soft hands.  The A’s don’t have any other third base prospects with the offensive upside of Wallace, which should prompt the A’s to compromise some defensive mobility in favor of a better bat in the lineup (something that they are quite used to doing).  Eventually Wallace should shift to a new position, but don’t be surprised if it is DH rather than 1B.

6/28 AA Minor League Report

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

Oakland A’s 1B of the future Chris Carter continues to pound the baseball, going 2-3 yesterday with his 13th HR six runs batted in and two runs scored.  I predicted at the beginning of June that Carter was due to go off on a power rampage and, suffice to say it, he has.  Over his last 100 AB, Carter is hitting .313 with 7 HR 19 RBI and a 19 BB/24 K ratio.  His improvements in his approach at the plate has resulted in a 40 point rise in batting average.  Also, Sean Doolittle’s injuries and potential move to the OF has opened the door wide for Carter to be the premier 1B prospect in Oakland’s farm system.  Jason Giambi is a one season hold over and Daric Barton offers a paper-thin resistance to Carter’s comprehensive skill set.  The A’s are desperate for offensive fire power and the 6-4 225 lb. Carter offers it in abundance.  He should make a move to AAA Sacramento at some point this summer and if Oakland continues to play last place baseball in the AL West, he should get a look at some point in September.  I expect that Chris Carter will get to continue his development at the Arizona Fall League this winter before getting a long look by the A’s this following spring. 

Today’s player de jour is the always impressive Michael Taylor of the Philadelphia Phillies organization.  The Stanford alum collected three more hits yesterday, including his 14th HR, four RBI and two runs scored.  Taylor’s banner day raised his season batting average to .342 .  He’s bound to earn a promotion soon either to AAA or, perhaps, to Philly.  The eBay market for Taylor’s cards has been red hot as of late with his ‘07 Bowman Chrome Draft cards selling at $2.00-2.50 each and his ‘08 Donruss Elite autos (#/720) ranging between $20-25 each.  There is quite a bit of room for all of Taylor’s cards to grow.  His blend of power, speed, plate discipline and batting average and his athletic 6-6 250 lb. frame spells S-U-C-C-E-S-S at the major league level.

AA Player of the Day—MICHAEL TAYLOR

 

Other Notable Performances

Hitting:

• Chris Carter—2-3 HR(13) 6 RBI 2B 2R BB
• Adrian Cardenas—3-4 3R 2 BB SB(6)
• Matt Sulentic—3-6 2R 3 SB(16)
• Josh Donaldson—1-2 R 3 BB
• Matt Spencer—2-5 HR(13) 2 RBI
• Eric Sogard—2-5 2R
• Logan Forsythe—2-4 3B RBI R BB
• Tim Smith—3-4 2B 2 RBI BB R
• Mitch Moreland—2-5 2B RBI R
• Michael Taylor—3-4 HR(14) 4 RBI 2B 2R
• Jesus Montero—2-4 HR(9) RBI
• Jose Tabata—1-3 2B 2R RBI BB SB(5)
• Jim Negrych—2-4 2 RBI R SB(4)
• John Shelby Jr.—2-3 2B 3B 2 RBI 2 BB R SB(10)
• Dayan Viciedo—2-3 2 2B 2R BB
• Todd Frazier—1-4 HR(7) 2 RBI
• Sean Henry—2-4 HR(9) 2 RBI
• Andrew Lambo—3-4 2B 2R 2 RBI
• Eric Campbell—2-3 3B 2 RBI
• Desmond Jennings—2-4 2R RBI BB SB(28)
• Bryan Petersen—3-5 HR(2) 2 RBI
• Darin Holcomb—2-3 2B R BB
• Tyler Henry—3-4 HR(6) RBI 2R
• Hank Conger—2-5 HR(5) 2 RBI
• Mark Trumbo—2-4 2B RBI
• Danny Worth—2-4 2B 2R BB
• Casper Wells—2-5 2B 3B
• Michael Daniel—2-5 R (Game 1)…..3-5 R (Game 2)
• Leonard Davis—2-5 HR(11) 3 RBI BB
• Rene Tosoni—3-4 2B R BB

Pitching:

• Michael Stutes—7 IP 5H 2 ER BB 3K W (5-4)
• Charles Shirek—7 IP 8H ER BB 2K W (10-2)
• Kyle Parker—7 IP 4H Er 2 BB 4K
• Ryne Reynoso—7.2 IP 6H Er 2 BB 6K W (5-4)
• Travis Wood—7 IP 5H 2 ER BB 4K
• Kasey Kiker—6 IP 4H 6K

Trevor Cahill and Brett Anderson: Closing in on a Roster Spot

Posted by Jeremy on March 26, 2009 under Market Watch | Be the First to Comment

 

         

 

The Oakland A’s made a concerted effort this offseason to shore up an offense that was one of the worst in all of baseball in 2008.  Highlighted by the trade for Colorado Rockies All-Star OF Matt Holliday, Oakland also made waves with free agent signings of veterans Jason Giambi, Orlando Cabrera, and Nomar Garciaparra.  The pitching staff, however, has been largely unchanged from last season with Dana Eveland, Dallas Braden, Gio Gonzalez, and Sean Gallagher all battling to slot themselves behind ace Justin Ducshcherer. 

Enter Trevor Cahill and Brett Anderson…

Cahill has been as good as advertised this spring going 2-0 with a 3.94 ERA and 3 BB/10 K in 16 IP.  Anderson, for his part, has impressed as well, garnering a 1-1 record with a 1.54 ERA and 4 BB/2 K in 11.2 IP.  Rotation hopefuls Gallagher, Eveland, Gonzalez, and Josh Outman have had up and down performances this spring, further muddyinig the waters, making manager Bob Geren’s decision more difficult.

Anderson starts today against the Chicago White Sox, and Cahill should get one more start later this week.  Their performances should go a long way toward dictating the odds of either or both of them snagging a spot on the opening day 25 man roster.

The market has responded favorably to Cahill’s strong spring with his 2007 Bowman Chrome Draft Auto selling for $27-30 each.  A more wallet-friendly purchase can be found with his ‘07 Bowman Heritage cards which can be had for $1-2 each.  Anderson has 1st year cards in the 2007 Bowman Chrome Prospects set that sell for $1-2 each and autographed cards in the ‘07 Donruss Elite Extra set (#/549) available for $25-28 each.

My Take: Both of these kids are just 21 years old and have fully wound arbitration clocks.  Pennants are not won in April, and the A’s have enough talent to stay in contention in the A.L. West.  I think the prices for their autos are peaking right now in expectation that one or both of them will earn a spot in the A’s’ rotation.

I don’t think so.

Once either Anderson or Cahill (or both) get sent down to AAA Sacramento, the demand for their cards will subside significantly.  Odds are that they will be back by June, and so will the clammoring for their cards.  If you can land a chrome lot of Anderson or a Heritage lot of Cahill at around $2.00 each, it should be a good value buy right now.

 

Current Trevor Cahill Auctions:

Current Brett Anderson Auctions

Top 20 RHP’s for 2009 **Part 1**

Posted by Jeremy on March 17, 2009 under 2009 Top 20 Prospects | Be the First to Comment

Amidst all of my spring training reports, content writing for Hot-Prospects.net, and life outside the blogging world, I had put the Top 20 prospect reports on the back burner.  Well, we are back on track and this segment will feature the better half of the top 20 right handed pitching prospects for 2009.  These RHP’s are ones that are projected to be starters at this stage of their careers as we will handle the relievers in a separate post.  I hope you enjoy this immensely talented list!

 

1.) Tommy Hanson—Atlanta Braves

 

2009 Stats:

Team	League	W	L	ERA	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	SO	GO/AO	AVG
MYR	CAR	3	1	0.90	7	7	0	0	0	40.0	15	6	4	0	11	49	0.43	.116
MIS	SOU	8	4	3.03	18	18	1	1	0	98.0	70	39	33	9	41	114	0.85	.197
Minors		11	5	2.41	25	25	1	1	0	138.0	85	45	37	9	52	163	0.71	.175

 

Strengths: Hanson’s fastball velocity jumped from 92-94 MPH to 96-98 MPH.  He locates it well and goes right after hitters.  His curveball is devastating with a hard 12 to 6 break that misses bats.  At 6-6, Hanson uses his height to throw downhill on hitters

Weaknesses: Very few.  Being a flyball pitcher, Hanson has the tendency to leave his heat up in the zone which, while permissable against minor league bats, could lead to trouble against the better hitters in the National League.

2009 Outlook: Hanson has pitched well enough this past fall and during the spring to earn a rotation spot in Atlanta.  He is a prime candidate for the 2009 N.L. Rookie of the Year award and he should anchor a young and talented Braves rotation for years to come.

 

2.) Neftali Feliz—Texas Rangers

 

2008 Stats:

Strengths: A fastball that can register 100 MPH on the radar gun.  Feliz is able to keep his heater down in the strike zone and has shown a marked improvement in controling his breaking ball.  Feliz rarely gets hit hard and is capable of inducing groundball outs when needed.

Team	League	W	L	ERA	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	SO	GO/AO	AVG
CLI	MID	6	3	2.52	17	17	0	0	0	82.0	55	25	23	2	28	106	1.64	.193
FRI	TEX	4	3	2.98	10	10	0	0	0	45.1	34	16	15	1	23	47	0.73	.217
Minors		10	6	2.69	27	27	0	0	0	127.1	89	41	38	3	51	153	1.19	.201

 

  

Weaknesses: Pitching in Texas is tough for any pitcher, especially young ones.  Feliz had a big breakout season in ‘08, but he is still extremely young and inexperienced.  While his changeup has made progress, Neftali still struggles to gain a good feel for it sometimes.

2009 Projection: The temptation of the Rangers to rush Feliz into MLB duty gets greater with every solid outing.  He has proven this spring to be the hands down best pitching prospect that Texas has and it is an inevitability that he will make his debut at some point in 2009, likely before the All-Star break.

3.) Rick Porcello—-Detroit Tigers

 

2008 Stats:

Team	League	W	L	ERA	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	SO	GO/AO	AVG
LAK	FSL	8	6	2.66	24	24	0	0	0	125.0	116	51	37	7	33	72	2.48	.244
Minors		8	6	2.66	24	24	0	0	0	125.0	116	51	37	7	33	72	2.48	.244

 

 

Strengths: Porcello has the stuff and polish of an All-Star veteran pitcher.  His fastball sits between 93-96 MPH and hitters have a difficult time squaring up and driving it because of the late sinking movement.  His slider is a mid 80’s hammer as is his big breaking curveball, but his changeup is far and away the gem of the offspeed pitches with excellent late fade and velocity that can dip down to 70 MPH.  All of these are potential plus to plus-plus offerings and Porcello commands them all with excellence.  His arm action is top notch and his mechanics are flawless.

Weaknesses: 72 K’s in 125 IP is very uncustomary for someone with Porcello’s pure stuff.  Sometimes his slider tends to get slurvy and lacks the bite that his curveball possesses.

2009 Outlook: Porcello should start in AA, but his ultimate destination this next season is in Detroit’s rotation.  At just 20 years old, Porcello has the potential to be baseball’s best rookie pitcher and an all-star caliber ace for years to come.

 

4.) Trevor Cahill—Oakland Athletics

 

2008 Stats:

Team	League	W	L	ERA	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	SO	GO/AO	AVG
STO	CAL	5	4	2.78	14	13	0	0	0	87.1	52	29	27	3	31	103	2.19	.174
MID	TEX	6	1	2.19	7	6	0	0	0	37.0	24	15	9	2	19	33	3.06	.190
Minors		11	5	2.61	21	19	0	0	0	124.1	76	44	36	5	50	136	2.43	.179

 

 

 

Strengths: His low-90’s fastball has heavy sink that induces groundballs by the bunches.  He controls it well and uses it to set up hitters for his knee-buckling 70 MPH curveball.  Cahill has a good idea on how to set up hitters and locate pitches to all quadrants of the strike zone.

Weaknesses: His changeup is a little behind the other two pitches and his confidence in it wanes from time to time.  While his 6-3 frame is athletic and projectible, Cahill will likely not develop the same velocity on his fastball that pitchers like Hanson, Porcello, Feliz and others feature. 

2009 Projection: Cahill is on a fast track and the organizaiton has not ruled out the possibility that he could find his way into the A’s rotation on opening day.  More likely, Cahill will be shipped to AAA Sacramento and await the phone call that will surely come at some point summoning him to the big club.

 

5.) Jordan Zimmerman—Washington Nationals

 

2008 Stats:

Team	League	W	L	ERA	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	SO	GO/AO	AVG
POT	CAR	3	1	1.65	5	4	0	0	1	27.1	15	6	5	1	8	31	1.61	.167
HAR	EAS	7	2	3.21	20	20	0	0	0	106.2	89	42	38	9	39	103	1.31	.226
Minors		10	3	2.89	25	24	0	0	1	134.0	104	48	43	10	47	134	1.36	.215

 

 

 

Strengths: His 90-94 MPH fastball has good downward movement and saws off RH batters.  The curveball is a plus pitch with 12-6 break and swing and miss potential.  Zimmerman is a bulldog on the mound and is an agile athlete.

Weaknesses: The third pitch is a changeup and it is a little behind the fastball and curve.  He struggles sometimes with his command and has struggled in the past with heaping too many expectations on himself when he is on the mound.

2009 Outlook: Zimmerman is one of the Nationals’ workhorses in the rotation.  He should fit nicely in the #4 or 5 spot this season with the likelihood of moving into the #2 or 3 slot by 2010.

 

6.)  Chris Tillman—Baltimore Orioles

2008 Stats:

Team	League	W	L	ERA	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	SO	GO/AO	AVG
BOW	EAS	11	4	3.18	28	28	0	0	0	135.2	115	53	48	10	65	154	0.82	.227
Minors		11	4	3.18	28	28	0	0	0	135.2	115	53	48	10	65	154	0.82	.227

 

 

Strengths: His fastball gained a little bit of velocity, sitting comfortably at 92-95 MPH.  He uses his 6-5 frame to leverage it well and attack hitters.  His 11-5 tilt on his curveball is wicked and serves as his strikeout pitch. 

Weaknesses: His control improved last season, but he still walked nearly 4 hitter per 9 innings.  He is a flyball pitcher that sometimes has trouble with locating his fastball down in the zone on a consistent basis.

2009 Outlook: Tillman should make his MLB debut at some point in ‘09, but a trip to AAA Bowie is surely in the making.  The Orioles are amassing a weatlh of intriguing pitching talent in their farm system that could blossom quite soon.  When it does, the AL East will have another beast to contend with and Tillman may be leading the charge atop Baltimore’s young rotation.

 

7.) Tim Alderson—San Francisco Giants

 

2008 Stats:

Team	League	W	L	ERA	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	SO	GO/AO	AVG
SJO	CAL	13	4	2.79	26	26	0	0	0	145.1	125	48	45	4	34	124	1.02	.235
Minors		13	4	2.79	26	26	0	0	0	145.1	125	48	45	4	34	124	1.02	.235

 

 

 

Strengths: The things that stands out most is Alderson’s pinpoint control.  He is remarkably poised on the mound and has an uncannily high baseball IQ.  Oh, his stuff is pretty good too.  His fastball lives in the low 90’s, topping out at 95.  At 6-7, Alderson throws it downhill at hitters and should be able to generate groundball outs at a decent rate.  His curveball is even better.  It has a hard break and low 80’s velocity, but he has also shown an aptitude for manipulating the velocity and movement of it.

Weaknesses: Some scouts were concerned with the unnatural mechanics of his delivery, thinking that it would affect his durability in the future, but there has been no signs of wear yet.  He needs to gain some bulk on his lean frame and should continue to add depth to his changeup.

2009 Outlook: Alderson should rocket through the Giants system at a similar pace to superstar lefty Madison Bumgarner (more on him later).  Alderson should be ready to make his MLB debut in the second half of the 2010 season and, with Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain already in San Francisco’s rotation, Alderson along with Bumgarner should form the most formidable young rotation ever seen in the Bay Area.  Giants fans rejoice!

8.) Jarrod Parker—Arizona Diamondbacks

 

2008 Stats:

Team	League	W	L	ERA	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	SO	GO/AO	AVG
SOU	MID	12	5	3.44	24	24	0	0	0	117.2	113	56	45	8	33	117	1.01	.251
Minors		12	5	3.44	24	24	0	0	0	117.2	113	56	45	8	33	117	1.01	.251

 

 

Strengths: Big time heat that can touch 97 MPH with ease.  His curveball is tops in the Diamondbacks system with late diving action and his slider is another effective pitch.  Parker has a high IQ on the mound and is a tireless worker.  His mechanics are clean and he has a good idea on how to get hitters out

Weaknesses: Parker has a smallish frame that has been durable thusfar, but runs the risk of wearing down as he ages.  His changeup is a “show me” pitch at this point and his fastball tends to get up in the zone (especially late in games) lowering the number of groundball outs and increasing the risk of surrendering XBH.

2009 Outlook: Parker did well in his first professional assignment and he should continue to prove his greatness at High-A and perhaps AA this season.  Parker has the ability to dominate hiters and should continue to rack up big strikeout numbers in ‘09 with a shot of making the D’Backs rotation in mid-late 2010.

 

9.) Michael Bowden—Boston Red Sox

 

2008 Stats:

Strengths: Bowden has a bulldog mentality and breathes baseball.  He has excellent control of three pitches including a 90-92 MPH heater, a 12-6 breaking curveball and a changeup that he throws with deceptive arm speed. 

Weaknesses: Bowden is not overpowering like other pitchers on this list.  He doesn’t induce groundball outs well, which could kill him at Fenway.  His deceptive delivery needs to be cleaned up from the herky jerky movements that could lead to injuries down the road. 

2009 Outlook: In another organization, Bowden would be starting in the middle or end of the rotation.  In Boston, he is a AAA farmhand.  Expect him to start at Pawtucket until an injury or trade allows him an opportunity.  With Clay Buchholz and Justin Masterson ahead of him, the latter may be his best bet.  Ultimately his ceiling is as a durable and effective #3 starter.  Given his high amount of success and polish, there is a good chance he will fulfill that promise.

 

10.) Jhoulys Chacin—Colorado Rockies

 

2008 Stats:

Weaknesses: Chacin’s stuff is not overpowering and, if it is not on, he can be hit hard.  Colorado finesse pitchers have a history of struggling in the light air of Coors Field as their stuff seemingly does not experience the same movement.  A pitch with lateral break (i.e. a slider) would be a welcome addition as Jhoulys’ pitches all have downward movement.  He is not that big and his slender build may struggle to sustain a workload suitable for a top of the rotation starter.

2009 Outlook: ‘09 will be a show me season at AA Tulsa.  It will be interesting to see how his stuff carries over to this challenging level.  Brandon Hynick, a similar finesse pitcher, struggled mightily last season after having an immensely successful season at High-A.  Chacin’s stuff is better, but a repeat performance from 2008’s breakout campaign will be a monumental challenge.

 

There’s the top 10….your thoughts are welcome.  I will get to work on the 11-20th ranked RHP’s and should have them completed within the next couple of days.  Remember that Friday March 20th is the final day for the PPR Contest.  Thusfar we have 8 excellent submissions and I am always looking for more!

Have a great day!

Top 20 Shortstop Prospects for 2009

Posted by Jeremy on February 10, 2009 under 2009 Top 20 Prospects | Be the First to Comment

After working on this crop of shortstops, I came to the realization that this bunch is extremely difficult to figure out.  With the exception of a few players, many of the top 20 (and those on the outer fringes of the list) are players whose performances have not yet matched the depth of their tools.  Projectibility is a favorite buzz word in a prospector’s vocabulary, as it indicates an elevated ceiling of potential skills.  However, it also serves as a double edged sword.  Several factors can inhibit a player’s potential; injuries, strike zone judgement, and even poorly run organizaitons (my Mariners case in point).  This list is chock full of projectibility and, odds are that there will be a great deal of movement, both positive and negative, within the ranks throughout the season.  Enjoy the list!

 

1.) Gordon Beckham—Chicago White Sox

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
KAN	SAL	.310	14	58	11	18	2	0	3	8	29	5	7	0	1	.365	.500	.865
Minors		.310	14	58	11	18	2	0	3	8	29	5	7	0	1	.365	.500	.865

 

 

Strengths: Beckham is an extremely polished player with both the bat and glove who has the ability to hit for a high batting average, 20-25 HR power all while playing solid defense at the shortstop position.  He has off the charts makeup and a relentless competitive drive.

Weaknesses: At a demure 6-0 175 lb., there is not much projectivity to Beckham’s athleticism.  His ceiling is not nearly as high as the other Beckham on this list.

2009 Outlook: Gordon opened a lot of eyes in the Arizona Fall League when he hit .394 with 3 HR 13 RBI and 20 runs scored in just 18 games.  This should easily allow for him to skip High-A ball altogether and head directly to AA Birmingham to start the season.  A promotion to AAA Charlotte in the making at some point followed by a his MLB debut after rosters expand in September.  Alexei Ramirez is currently slated to play SS this season, but he seems more suited to be a 2B or OF once Beckham is ready. 

 

2.) Elvis Andrus—Texas Rangers

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
FRI	TEX	.295	118	482	82	142	19	2	4	65	177	38	91	54	16	.350	.367	.717
Minors		.295	118	482	82	142	19	2	4	65	177	38	91	54	16	.350	.367	.717

 

 

Strengths: Explosive top of the lineup speed and a bat that sizzles line drives from gap to gap.  His combination of range, glove, and arm strength makes him a future Gold Glove candidate and potential All-Star.  Several within the organization praise his makeup and leadership skills. 

Weaknesses: Andrus has below average power at this point of his career, though there is promise for more.  His plate discipline is still a bit raw which should allow for major league pitchers to exploit his aggressiveness in the early going.

2009 Outlook: Andrus inadvertantly created a good deal of buzz in the offseason as the organization stated that Michael Young will be shifted over to 3B to make room for Andrus.  He may not be ready yet for the challenge, though his work ethic and competitiveness makes it hard for him to fail for long.  As an insurance policy, the Rangers signed 11-time Gold Glover Omar Vizquel, who should serve as a fine mentor for the Rangers’ future leadoff dynamo.

 

3.) Tim Beckham—Tampa Bay Rays

2008 Stats:  

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
PRI	APP	.243	46	177	30	43	12	0	2	14	61	13	43	5	1	.297	.345	.642
HVR	NYP	.333	2	6	5	2	1	0	0	0	3	2	1	1	0	.556	.500	1.056
Minors		.246	48	183	35	45	13	0	2	14	64	15	44	6	1	.309	.350	.659

 

 

Strengths: Tools…and lots of them.  The ball jumps off of his bat due to his quick swing and surprising strength.  He projectibly can be an 18-22 HR hitter in time and his speed should produce 20-30 SB per season as well.  Defensively, he has all of the tools to be a special playmaker at the shortstop position.  Despite his youth, he has shown a great deal of maturity and exhibits a good feel for the game. 

Weaknesses: He is still quite raw.  His swing has technical flaws that need to be ironed out and his strike zone judgement is still in its early stages of development. 

2009 Outlook: Beckham should get to put his abilities on display at full season Low-A Bowling Green this summer.  He has all the abilities to be a bonafide superstar in the future, but that day currently just a speck on the horizon.  The Rays have a wealth of talent sprinkled throughout their farm system which allows for them to bring Beckham along at a prudent pace.  Once the skills catch up with the tools, Tim Beckham could become baseball’s #1 overall prospect.

4.) Carlos Triunfel—Seattle Mariners

2008 Stats:

 

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
HDM	CAL	.287	108	436	75	125	20	4	8	49	177	30	52	30	9	.336	.406	.742
Minors		.287	108	436	75	125	20	4	8	49	177	30	52	30	9	.336	.406	.742

 

 

Strengths: Triunfel has a lively bat that has shown intriguing power potential and high rates of contact.  Triunfel is a very confident player who attacks all phases of his game with a consistent desire to better his skills.  Those that have watched Carlos feel that he will develop into more of a power hitter in the future along the same lines as Miguel Tejada. 

 Weaknesses: Triunfel clashed early in the season with team officials at High Desert about undisclosed issues and was suspended for the early part of the season.  While much of this can be chalked up to youthful indescretions, it is still a matter that is worth monitoring this season.  Triunfel’s thick legs should lose some footspeed and range over time, which makes shortstop only a temporary home.  A change to the hot corner would put additional pressure on him to put up better power numbers.

2009 Outlook: Triunfel has worked dilligently since his suspension to make himself into a more complete player.  He toiled at two separate winter league stops and should get a look this spring before heading to AA West Tennessee in April.  The M’s have been aggressive with Carlos’ development and he has handled every challenge thrown at him with consistently positive results. 

 

5.) Alcides Escobar—Milwaukee Brewers

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
HUN	SOU	.328	131	546	95	179	24	5	8	76	237	31	82	34	8	.363	.434	.797
Minors		.328	131	546	95	179	24	5	8	76	237	31	82	34	8	.363	.434	.797
MLB		.500	9	4	2	2	0	0	0	0	2	0	1	0	0	.500	.500	1.000

 

 

Strengths: Emerging top of the lineup offensive potential with promising gap power.  Escobar has excellent speed that he utilizes well on the bases and in the field.  Defensively, Escobar’s range, hands, and arm strength ranks him as one of the top SS in the minor leagues.

Weaknesses: He doesn’t have the HR potential as some of the other players on this list.  Escobar also needs to do a better job of working counts and drawing more walks if he wants to be a leadoff hitter.

2009 Outlook: J.J. Hardy and Rickie Weeks are his biggest obstacles keeping Alcides Escobar from Milwaukee right now.  That should give him ample time to play everyday at AAA Nashville to put the finishing touches on his development.  He will get another opportunity to play with the Brewers or, perhaps, another organization at some point this season.

 

6.) Chris Valaika—Cincinnati Reds

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
SAR	FSL	.363	32	135	20	49	9	0	7	31	79	7	28	2	0	.393	.585	.978
CHA	SOU	.301	97	379	58	114	19	1	11	50	168	28	74	7	4	.352	.443	.795
Minors		.317	129	514	78	163	28	1	18	81	247	35	102	9	4	.363	.481	.843

 

 

Strengths: Valaika is a good offensive player with a high average bat and power to the alleys that could provide 12-18 HR per season for the Reds.  He is a gritty competitor who is a potential clubhouse leader as well.

Weaknesses: Defensively, his below average range may eventually shift him to second base.  He also needs to continue to work on tightening up his plate discipline as he doesn’t draw many walks.  Valaika has good polish, but isn’t as projectible as other prospects on this list.

2009 Outlook: After playing well in the Arizona Fall League (.311 2 HR 16 RBI 18 runs scored) Valaika will get an opportunity to play with the Reds’ big league camp at spring training before heading to AAA Louisville in April.  The Reds have a glut of depth at shortstop, but none of them have the offensive upside of Chris Valaika.  He should get the call to Cincinnati at some point in the second half of the season.

 

7.) Yamaico Navarro—Boston Red Sox

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
GRE	SAL	.280	83	325	46	91	14	4	7	54	134	29	73	3	2	.341	.412	.753
LNC	CAL	.348	42	181	33	63	13	2	4	23	92	12	30	3	2	.393	.508	.901
Minors		.304	125	506	79	154	27	6	11	77	226	41	103	6	4	.359	.447	.806

 

 

Strengths: Navarro’s offensive game made great strides last year as he demonstrated good line drive power that could produce 12-15 HR per season at the major league level.  He is strong for his size and is an adept fielder.  Yamaico plays with a high level of energy and has a penchant for making dazzling plays.

Weaknesses: He doesn’t have enough power to be a middle of the order run producer, nor enough speed to be a prototypical leadoff hitter.  Yamiaco needs to keep refining his approach at the plate to significantly cut back on his K totals.  If he doesn’t, he will get eaten alive by more advanced pitchers.

2009 Outlook: AA Portland will privide a monumental challenge for Navarro.  His ’08 season helped to vault him to the top of Boston’s organizational chart at SS, but there are several intriguing prospects (Oscar Tejeda, Argenis Diaz, Casey Kelly) who could potentially knock him down a peg or two.  Navarro will have to prove that his offensive breakthrough is more than a California League-induced aberration.

 

8.) Ivan DeJesus Jr.—Los Angeles Dodgers

2008 Stats:

 

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
JAX	SOU	.324	128	463	91	150	21	2	7	58	196	76	81	16	2	.419	.423	.843
Minors		.324	128	463	91	150	21	2	7	58	196	76	81	16	2	.419	.423	.843

 

 

Strengths: DeJesus has remarkable plate discipline for someone of his age and his quick bat produces line drives all over the field.  Ivan Jr. has above average speed that he uses on the bases wisely.  Defensively he has demonstrated good agility and fluidity.  Plus, his arm strength is just a tick above average which helps his chances as a SS.

Weaknesses: DeJesus has more power than his dad did, but he still will be hard pressed to crack double digits in HR’s at the major league level.  Despite his good defensive tools, DeJesus still makes quite a few errors, which may be due to lapses in focus on routine plays. 

2009 Outlook: DeJesus has worked hard at a couple of fall and winter league destinations this offseason.  He should get a long look by the Dodgers before reporting to AAA Albequerqe.  The Dodgers just re-signed Rafael Furcal to a three year contract which makes things more complicated for DeJesus.  Second base may be a better option though, as Blake DeWitt and veteran Mark Loretta offer far less formidable competition.  Expect DeJesus to make his Chavez Ravine debut in the second half of ‘09.

 

9.) Reid Brignac—Tampa Bay Rays

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
DUR	INT	.250	97	352	43	88	26	2	9	43	145	25	93	5	2	.299	.412	.711
Minors		.250	97	352	43	88	26	2	9	43	145	25	93	5	2	.299	.412	.711
MLB		.000	4	10	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	5	0	0	.091	.000	.091

 

 

Strengths: Once a defensive liability, Brignac has worked dilligently to become one of the most reliable fielding shortstops in the minor leagues.  His 6-3 180 lb. frame offers promising power potential as it matures.

Weaknesses: As Reid’s defensive skills have improved, his offensive production has regressed.  He struggled last season to control the strike zone and his power output has decreased in each of the past three seasons.  Brignac’s size offers intriguing offensive potential, but as it grows, his range could diminish as well. 

2009 Outlook: Jason Bartlett’s excellent performance in the second half of the ‘08 season gives Brignac a little more time to work things out at AAA Durham.  He needs it.  Expect Reid to earn a call up at some point ’09 with hopefully better results.  Brignac’s long term future with the Rays is tenuous as Tim Beckham is assuredly the shortstop of the future in Tampa.  However, if Reid can distinguish himself over the next season and a half, there is still a chance that he can be a solid player either with the Rays or another organiztion.

 

10.) Oscar Tejeda—Boston Red Sox

2008 Stats: 

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
GRE	SAL	.261	97	372	44	97	18	1	4	38	129	20	76	11	5	.301	.347	.647
Minors		.261	97	372	44	97	18	1	4	38	129	20	76	11	5	.301	.347	.647

 

 

 

Strengths: Tejeda has a lean and athletic body that oozes tools and projection.  His quick bat makes solid contact that produces line drives with potential power output down the road.  He has also been praised for his good makeup and baseball IQ.

 Weaknesses: He has good defensive tools but has not harnessed footwork and throwing mechanics.  This makes him error prone and may force a position switch at some point.  His power is merely a projection right now, and the ceiling is likely limited to 10-15 HR per year.  He has good speed, but has yet to figure out how to use it as a weapon on the basepaths.

2009 Outlook: Tejeda was surpassed by Yamaico Navarro on organization’s depth chart.  He has the youth and abilty to reclaim the top spot and some success at High-A Salem should help with that process.

 

11.) Pete Kozma—St. Louis Cardinals

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
QC	MID	.284	99	377	58	107	20	4	5	40	150	45	69	12	5	.363	.398	.760
PBC	FSL	.130	24	77	4	10	4	0	0	10	14	10	27	0	1	.231	.182	.413
Minors		.258	123	454	62	117	24	4	5	50	164	55	96	12	6	.340	.361	.701

 

 

Strengths: Pete has the complete package of skills suitable to becoming an MLB shortstop.  He has solid average to above average defensive tools and advanced instincts for a prospect his age.  His better tools are seen in his offensive game.  Kozma has a fundamentally sound swing that hits more line drives right now, but could develop power with some fine tuning.  He also shows a willingness to work at bats for walks and once he is on base, he uses his above average speed with savvy and discipline.  He is a gamer who works tirelessly to make himself a better baseball player.

Weaknesses: His ceiling is a little difficult to determine.  Some who have seen Kozma play feel that he could be an every day shortstop, others feel that he may develop as a utility-type player.  His blend of skills are good, but nothing stands out as being “spectacular”.  He needs to cut back on his K’s and continue to work on driving the ball with authority.

2008 Outlook: Kozma will begin back at High-A Palm Beach in April.  The Cardinals are quite thin at the shortstop position

 

12.) Cale Iorg—Detroit Tigers

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
LAK	FSL	.251	99	383	61	96	15	7	10	47	155	35	111	22	11	.329	.405	.734
Minors		.251	99	383	61	96	15	7	10	47	155	35	111	22	11	.329	.405	.734

 

 

Strengths: Iorg demonstrated a wide assortment of above average tools in his first full season.  His 6-2 180 lb. frame has good athleticism and budding power potential.  He can probably hit between 15-20 HR per season with regularity and his baserunning skills could produce the same amount of stolen bases.  Defensively, Iorg showed good range and a strong throwing arm that should make him a defensive asset in the six-hole.

Weaknesses: Iorg missed a season doing missionary work in Portugal.  At age 23, he is a little less refined than other prospects his age, though he made up ground quickly in ‘08.  His plate discpline is a major impediment that hampers his ability to hit for a higher batting average.  Also, his numbers waned as the season progressed, perhaps due to the shoulder strain that kept him sidelined for a while.

2009 Outlook: Tigers’ GM Dave Dombroski is quite optimistic that Iorg can be the team’s regular shortstop in a short period of time.  Iorg will get the opportunity to prove him right at AA Erie.  It sounds like Detroit would like to place him on the fast track.  Don’t be surprised to see him earn a promotion to AAA at some point if Iorg progresses as Dombroski hopes.  He is conservatively ranked on this list and, odds are, he will not be this low come next season.

 

 

 

 

13.) Justin Jackson—Toronto Blue Jays

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
LAN	MID	.238	121	454	74	108	26	6	7	47	167	62	154	17	8	.340	.368	.708
Minors		.238	121	454	74	108	26	6	7	47	167	62	154	17	8	.340	.368	.708

 

Strengths: There is a ton of projectibility wrapped up in this 6-2 190 lb. package.  Jackson showed an ability to hit for good XBH power that could start clearing more fences as he matures.  He has good speed once he gets moving, which allows for him to run bases well and turn doubles into triples.  He has good defensive tools highlighted by a cannon-like arm that was clocked at 93 MPH as a high school senior.

Weaknesses: Jackson is overly aggressive at the plate which allows for him to rack up strikeouts in copious amounts and leaves him vulnerable to slumps at the plate.  His power is merely a projection at this point and his baserunning speed doesn’t produce high SB totals. 

2009 Outlook: Jackson’s struggles in ‘08 shouldn’t keep him from moving up to High-A Dunedin this spring.  The Blue Jays aggressively drafted young, high-upside offensive talents in the ‘07 draft, signalling an impending youth movement in Toronto over the next couple of seasons.  Expect Jackson to be amongst the masses taking the field in Rogers Centre within the next three seasons.

 

14.) Lonnie Chisenhall—Cleveland Indians

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
MVS	NYP	.290	68	276	38	80	20	3	5	45	121	24	32	7	2	.355	.438	.794
Minors		.290	68	276	38	80	20	3	5	45	121	24	32	7	2	.355	.438	.794

 

 

 

Strengths: His bat is highly advanced for someone of his age, producing above average power with the ability to hit for a high batting average as well.  Chisenhall has a good feel for the strike zone and makes effective use of his marginal speed by intelligently running the bases.

Weaknesses: Off the field incidents ended Chisenhall’s career at the University of South Carolina as he was arrested for burglary and grand larceny.  He has seemingly moved beyond these but they still bear watching.  Additionally, his slow foot speed and thick frame fits better at 3B where his offensive numbers become more marginal.

2009 Outlook: Last season’s fine performance at short season Mahoning Valley should carry forward at full season Low-A ball this year.  Chisenhall will have to make the shift to 3B soon, but his offensive upside should allow for him to play anywhere.

 

15.) Carlos Rivero—Cleveland Indians

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
KIN	CAR	.282	108	411	46	116	27	1	8	64	169	36	84	1	2	.342	.411	.753
Minors		.282	108	411	46	116	27	1	8	64	169	36	84	1	2	.342	.411	.753

 

 

Strengths: At 6-3 210 lb., Rivero is an imposing well built SS in the mold of Cal Ripken Jr. and (ahem) Alex Rodriguez.  Rivero caught fire in August batting .356 with 4 HR and 21 RBI.  His fluid swing and quck hands has the potential to produce excellent power numbers that could surpass 20 HR per season at the major league level.  He has shown soft hands and a strong arm as well.

Weaknesses: Rivero may very well outgrow the SS position.  His substandard footspeed has already affected his range and there is plenty of reason to believe that he is not done growing.  At the plate, Rivero makes good contact but is prone to swinging at pitches out of the zone early in the count, limiting his walk totals.  The promise of power to come is merely projection at this point.

2009 Outlook: Shortstop will probably not be Rivero’s future position, but the Indians are allowing him the opportunity to play himself out of the position.  Right now, the numbers that he puts up defensively are average.  He will progress to AA Akron this season and that should prove to be a monumental challenge for him that he may not be prepared to undertake.  Don’t be surprised to see him back at Kinston if he struggles in the early going.

 

16.) Jonathan Galvez—San Diego Padres

2008 Stats: 

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
DSL PAD	DSL	.272	54	162	31	44	5	1	3	31	60	47	40	8	1	.449	.370	.819
Minors		.272	54	162	31	44	5	1	3	31	60	47	40	8	1	.449	.370	.819

 

 

 

 

 

Strengths: Galvez has a wide assortment of tools wrapped up in an athletic 6-2 175 lb. frame.  His quick right-handed swing has good leverage that should produce more HR power in future seasons.  More intriguing is his patience at the plate.  He makes good contact with balls in the strike zone and has shown an advanced ability to recognize offspeed pitches.  His foot speed is also an asset that he utilizes on the basepaths and in the field.

Weaknesses: Galvez struggled mightlily in July (.153 0 HR 9 RBI) and reports stated that the young SS put a great deal of pressure on himself, especially with runners in scoring position.  Galvez’s excellent performance happened in the Dominican Summer League and it remains to be seen how that will carry over to Low-A ball.

2009 Outlook: Galvez will only be 18 years old when the 2009 season begins which means that another dose of short season ball (probably with Eugene) looks to be in the cards.  If he continues to sustain his excellent rate of progress, he should be promoted to Fort Wayne and to the upper half of this list as well.

 

17.) Devaris Strange-Gordon—Los Angeles Dodgers

2008 Stats:

 

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
OGD	PIO	.331	60	251	45	83	13	3	2	27	108	16	29	18	5	.371	.430	.802
Minors		.331	60	251	45	83	13	3	2	27	108	16	29	18	5	.371	.430	.802

 

 

Strengths: Devaris Gordon may have to borrow his dad’s nickname “Flash” for awhile.  He is fast….really fast.  Gordon time of 6.35 seconds in the 60 yard dash makes him, hands down, the fastest player in the Dodgers organization.  His bat sprays line drives all over the field and his excellent hand-eye coordination makes him a difficult man to strike out.  Defensively, his range is almost limitless and his glove and arm strength seems to be adaquate for the position.

Weaknesses: LIke his dad, Tom, Devaris is slight of build and should never crack double digits in HR totals.  He needs to learn to work counts more effectively for walks in order to fulfill his potential as a leadoff hitter.  His speed could be used as a lethal weapon on the basepaths, but he needs to continue to hone his abilities to read pitchers’ pickoff moves.  Having Juan Pierre in the Dodgers’ system as a potential mentor couldn’t hurt.

2009 Outlook: His impressive numbers at Ogden will be challenged at Low-A Great Lakes this season.  Gordon has the electrifying speed and bat to be an elite top of the order prospect within the next couple of seasons.  His time under the radar won’t last long.

 

 

18.) P.J. Phillips—Los Angeles Angels

 

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
RCQ	CAL	.276	130	485	68	134	22	11	8	55	202	24	125	35	9	.313	.416	.729
Minors		.276	130	485	68	134	22	11	8	55	202	24	125	35	9	.313	.416	.729

 

 

Strengths: There is no shortage of projectible athleticism in Brandon Phillips’ younger brother’s game.  At 6-3 170 lbs., P.J. has top notch speed and sinewy strength that could make him a 20/20 candidate as a major leaguer.  Phillips was red hot over the second half of the season batting .315 with 6 HR 25 RBI 18 SB and 39 runs scored. 

Weaknesses: There is still a great deal of rawness and sloppy technique in Phillips’ game.  His plate discipline is nothing short of abysmal and his glove work in the field (37 errors) is quite sloppy.  P.J. may make a move to the outfield in the future.

2009 Outlook: The challenge for P.J. will be to continue his late season success at his new destination of AA Arkansas.  This year should give a better bearing on where Phillips’ skills truly are.  If he can refine his approach at the plate and shore up his defense at shortstop, he would assuredly improve his stock on this list significantly.  His brother was a late bloomer.  Perhaps, P.J. will be as well.

 

19.) Chris Nelson—Colorado Rockies

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
MOD	CAL	.167	8	30	2	5	1	0	1	5	9	2	8	0	2	.219	.300	.519
TUL	TEX	.237	73	283	38	67	18	2	3	42	98	35	69	6	1	.324	.346	.670
Minors		.230	81	313	40	72	19	2	4	47	107	37	77	6	3	.315	.342	.657

 

 

Strengths: His bat speed and leverage gives Nelson power potential that exceeds the perceived potential of his 5-11 175 lb. frame.  Nelson’s sterling performance in the AFL (.321 6 HR 17 RBI 22 runs scored) not only revived hopes in his abilities as a prospect but showed that he has made strides in improving his plate discipline.  When healthy, Nelson has the speed to steal 15-20 bases per season at the major league level.

Weaknesses: Nelson’s development has been Jekyll and Hyde throughout his career.  Last season’s numbers were mitigated severely by injuries to his hammate bone and hamstring, which makes his overall health in 2009 worth watching.  Defensively, he is below average, and his skills may be better suited for the outfield.  If he is forced to move, his value takes an immediate hit, especially in an organization with the depth of talent that Colorado has.

2009 Outlook: 2008 was a lost season for Nelson, but he showed a lot by coming back and performing so well in Arizona.  He has been included on Colorado’s 40 man roster which means that he should get a good dose of playing time during spring training.  If he continues his success, Nelson should move to AAA Colorado Springs in April.  If he struggles, he may go back to Tulsa to work things out.  Nelson seems like he has been around forever, but he is still just 23 and the potential for him to be an offensive force in a major league lineup makes him a prime sleeper for 2009.

 

 

20.) Jason Christian—Oakland Athletics

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
VAN	NOR	.291	62	213	27	62	16	1	4	24	92	39	65	13	1	.404	.432	.836
KCC	MID	.320	6	25	3	8	1	0	0	1	9	0	8	0	0	.320	.360	.680
Minors		.294	68	238	30	70	17	1	4	25	101	39	73	13	1	.396	.424	.821

 

 

Strengths: Christian is a big shortstop that has plenty of room to fill out in his 6-3 170 lb. frame.   He has shwon an ability to drive in runs and hit balls hard for good gap power.  Given his quick swing and fluidity, it is conceivable that he could develop above average power down the line.  His smoothness and strong, accurate arm reminds some scouts of fellow Athletic Bobby Crosby.  He is an intelligent player who showed a willingness to work at a variety of postions.

Weaknesses: Jason abandoned his solid plate discipline that he exhibited in his three seasons as a Michigan Wolverine.  He drew several walks, but his strikeout totals were quite a bit higher than expected.  Christian’s swing gets long at time, which leaves him prone to being exploited by advanced pitchers, especially on pitches in on the hands.

2009 Outlook: Christian has the looks of a 5th round steal.  His blend of skills and left-handed bat makes him a highly intriguing prospect for the 2009 season.  He should begin the season at either Low-A Kane County again or, perhaps, at High-A Stockton.  Either way, his ranking on this list is probably way too low and, with Oakland’s dearth of viable shortstop talent, his track to the major leagues could move quickly. 

 

 Ok, I can’t count…here’s a bonus addition to the list.

21.)  Brandon Hicks—Atlanta Braves

2008 Stats: 

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
MIS	SOU	.241	16	54	9	13	3	1	1	7	21	7	17	0	0	.333	.389	.722
MYR	CAR	.234	93	342	68	80	23	2	19	56	164	45	122	14	3	.335	.480	.815
Minors		.235	109	396	77	93	26	3	20	63	185	52	139	14	3	.335	.467	.802

 

 

 

Strengths: Power and lots of it.  Hicks is well built with a right handed swing that produces fence clearing power from foul pole to foul pole.  His sure hands and strong arm make him an above average defensive player as well.  Despite his thick 6-2 200 lb. frame, Hicks possesses excellent speed that he uses well on the basepaths.

Weaknesses: Strikeouts and lots of them.  Hicks has a high leg kick (see picture above) that occasionally throws off his timing and creates holes in his swing.  Hicks’ all or nothinig approach at the plate does not always serve him well in situations limits most of his production to the left side of the field, mitigating his batting average and run production. 

2009 Outlook: AA will be a big transition for Hicks.  He needs to cut back on his swing or he will be eaten alive and likely booted off of this list.  If he can refine his plate discipline, however, he has the potential to be the top power hitting shortstop in the minor leagues.  What he does with his swing will dictate whether he moves up this list or off of it.

Others to consider: Hector Gomez, Tyler Greene, Juan Silverio, Ehire Adrianza, Niko Vasquez, Andrew Romine, Argenis Diaz, Casey Kelly (his potential future as a pitcher keeps him off of this list). 

OOF!  That list took a long time to complete.  I ran into some formatting nightmares that gobbled up way too much time that I could have dedicated to our next list.  Let me know your thoughts about this list.  The bottom half of it was especially difficult as many of the prospects featured similar skills.  Overall, I think there is a lot of upside to this list that has yet to be fully discovered.  2009 should be a fun season!

Oakland A’s Send Matt Murton to the Rockies

Posted by Jeremy on February 5, 2009 under MLB Trade Analysis | Be the First to Comment

  

Yesterday, the Oakland Athleteics dealt 27 year old OF Matt Murton to the Colorado Rockies in exchange for speedy 2B prospect Corey Wimberly.    On the surface, this deal seems quite minor, yet it could show us just a little bit more about each club’s plans in 2009.  From a prospecting perspective, here is my take on the deal and how it affects each piece (directly or indirectly) involved.

Matt Murton: Murton’s move to Colorado and the National League is like fertilizer to his withering Oakland-choked statistics.  However, he will still be a reserve outfielder and, at age 27, he has officially made the transition from prospect to journeyman–a kiss of death to rookie card values. 

Corey Wimberly: A super utility guy in the mold of Angels spark plug Chone Figgins, Wimberley can play 2B, 3B, SS, and all three OF positions.  He has blazing speed and a power-free line drive bat.  From a collecting perspective, he is not ever going to be a hobby hot list favorite, but there are several opportunities for Wimberly to work his way into Oakland’s lineup as Bobby Crosby and Eric Chavez are sure bets to spend time on the DL at some point in ‘09.  He is a good candidate to be a top of the lineup speed demon that Oakland has lacked for several years.  His 1st year cards are in the various 2006 Bowman sets.  If you can find a refractor or serial numbered card for cheap (under 5 bucks), it could see a short term value bump at some point in 2009. 

Eric Young Jr.: Wimberly’s departure shows that the Rockies are quite confident that the terror of the Arizona Fall League is quite ready to be their future second baseman.  Young’s power spike and 20 SB this past fall demonstrates that he is a.) has the strength to drive the ball with more authority and b.) has fully recovered from his hamstring injury.  Young has the speed and base running wisdom (thanks to daddy) to be a league leader some day.  Stolen bases, while not as sexy as power numbers, do generate hobby buzz and demand.  Many base thieves tend to be “Punch and Judy” hitters, but Young’s stellar fall numbers gives me optimism that he can be a force to be reckoned with atop Colorado’s young lineup…perhaps as early as April.  Young’s 1st year cards can be found in various Bowman Products as well.  He’s close to being a member of the Rockies’ everyday lineup and, once he makes it, his cards should start to take off.

Top 20 Second Base Prospects for 2009

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

When I started brainstorming this list, I thought that it would be full of stinkers.  Second basemen have historically been nothing more than mediocre infield prospects who couldn’t cut it on the left side of the infield.  However, players like Chase Utley, Dustin Pedroia, Ian Kinsler, and others have ushered dwellers of the 4-hole to a more respected place amongst the skill positions.  The headliner of this list is Philadelphia Phillies prospect Jason Donald, who has yet to play a professional game at 2B.  However, his expected Opening Day nod in place of the injured Mr. Utley lends credence to his inclusion on this list.

 

1.) Jason Donald—Philadelphia Phillies

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
REA	EAS	.307	92	362	57	111	19	4	14	54	180	47	86	11	2	.391	.497	.889
Minors		.307	92	362	57	111	19	4	14	54	180	47	86	11	2	.391	.497	.889

 

Strengths: Donald has a well rounded set of polished skills that are major league ready.  His leadership, baseball instincts, and work ethic are highly lauded within the organization.

Weaknesses: None of his tangible skills stand out as being above average.  Defensively, Donald can play several infield positions, but he doesn’t dazzle at any one of them.

2009 Outlook: Utley has stated publicly that he expects to be ready for opening day which, if true, will push Donald either over to 3B in place of the injured Pedro Feliz or to AAA Ottawa for some more seasoning.  Donald’s leadership and all out efforts will be well appreciated in the city of brotherly love and could propel this former Arizona Wildcat to become a sentimental fan favorite…at least until he gets traded…or suffers an 0-20 slump.

 

2.) Chris Coghlan—Florida Marlins

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
CAR	SOU	.298	132	483	83	144	32	5	7	74	207	67	65	34	10	.396	.429	.825
Minors		.298	132	483	83	144	32	5	7	74	207	67	65	34	10	.396	.429	.825

 

Strengths: His tireless competitive drive and sound fundamental skills allow for him to put up good numbers in a variety of categories.  Coghlan has excellent plate discipline and a line drive bat that could hit for a high average at the major league level.

Weaknesses: He doesn’t have great range defensively, and his power tends to hit gaps rather than seats. 

2009 Outlook: Coghlan’s future is directly correlated with the destiny of current Marlin 2B Dan Uggla.  There have been rumors swirling in the offseason that Florida is looking to trade Uggla, but nothing substantial has materialized yet.  Coghlan, in the meanwhile, will continue to polish off his development at AAA Albequerqe until room is made for him on the big league roster.

 

3.) Sean Rodriguez—Los Angeles Angels

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
SLC	PCL	.306	66	248	68	76	19	1	21	52	160	29	45	4	1	.397	.645	1.042
Minors		.306	66	248	68	76	19	1	21	52	160	29	45	4	1	.397	.645	1.042
MLB		.204	59	167	18	34	8	1	3	10	53	14	55	3	1	.276	.317	.593

 

Strengths: Sean-Rod has intriguing power potential that could translate to at least 20-25 HR per season with the Angels.  Defensively, he has a strong arm, a quick first step and soft hands that should make him an above average fielder.

Weaknesses: Rodriguez left his plate discipline in Salt Lake City after his promotion to L.A.  A disciplined hitter at AAA, Sean became over-agressive at L.A.  Also, his bulky build (6-1 215 lb.) is great for power potential, but should have an adverse effect on his range and athleticism as he ages.

2009 Outlook: Rodriguez is currently blocked by Howie Kendrick at 2B, but Kendrick has failed to complete any of his first three seasons without missing substantial time with injuries.  Rodriguez’s powerful bat is close to ready and the Angels may want to consider giving Sean some reps in the OF to increase their options.  Vlad Guerrero is rapidly losing his athleticism and Juan Rivera has a laundry list of injury woes as well.  Rodriguez turns 24 in April and the best from him is yet to come.

 

4.) Eric Young Jr.—Colorado Rockies

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
TUL	TEX	.290	105	403	74	117	24	4	3	33	158	61	77	46	16	.391	.392	.784
Minors		.290	105	403	74	117	24	4	3	33	158	61	77	46	16	.391	.392	.784

 

Strengths: World class speed and excellent lead off skills make the junior version of Eric Young a potentially better player than his father.  Young also turned in an MVP performance in the ‘08 Arizona Fall League adding surprising power to his game, hitting 5 HR in just 100 AB.

Weaknesses: Second base may be a temporary home for Young as his glove and footwork are below average.  His power spike in the AFL, while encouraging, may not carry forward to Colorado.

2009 Outlook: If he is able to stay at 2B, his chances of staying in Colorado are much better.  The Rockies are loaded with good young outfielders and Young’s offensive upside is quite a bit better than current second baseman Clint Barmes.  Watch Young’s performance at AAA Colorado Springs to see if the power carries forward and the defense improves. 

 

5.) Eric Sogard—San Diego Padres

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
LAK	CAL	.308	133	536	97	165	42	3	10	87	243	79	62	16	7	.394	.453	.847
Minors		.308	133	536	97	165	42	3	10	87	243	79	62	16	7	.394	.453	.847

 

Strengths: Much like Coghlan, Sogard has a well rounded set of polished skills that, when matched with his work ethic and competitive drive, allows him to put up big numbers across the board.  Sogard has surprising pop for someone his size and has a knack for driving in clutch runs.  His plate disicpline and high contact rates makes him a solid top of the lineup hitter.

Weaknesses: Sogard has average athleticism and speed which could serve as a minor detriment to his defensive range and quickness on the basepaths in future seasons.

2009 Outlook: Sogard will look to demonstrate that his gaudy stats at Lake Elsinore were not a California League aberration.  His skill set, both tangible and intangible, closely resembles that of 2008 AL MVP Dustin Pedroia.  By this time next season, Sogard could easily be #1 on this list.

 

6.) Nick Noonan—San Francisco Giants

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
AUG	SAL	.279	119	499	79	139	27	7	9	68	207	23	98	29	4	.315	.415	.730
Minors		.279	119	499	79	139	27	7	9	68	207	23	98	29	4	.315	.415	.730

 

Strengths: His athletic and projectible frame should build more strength as it matures.  Noonan hit a combined 34 doubles and triples to go with his seven HR.  This leads me to believe that he can develop into a 12-18 HR hitter in the future.  Noonan has an advanced mental approach both offensively and defensively and he utilizes his speed well on the basepaths.  He should be a leadoff or #2 hitter at the major league level.

Weaknesses: Noonan needs to improve his plate discipline and pitch recognition.  He tends to swing at pitches out of the strike zone, limiting his batting average totals and on base opportunities.

2009 Projection: High-A San Jose is his April destination and Noonan has the opportunity to put up some big numbers there.  He is part of a highly talented youth movement that includes the likes of Buster Posey, Angel Villalona, Madison Bumgarner, and Tim Alderson.  Look out for this Giants franchise in the next 3-5 seasons!

7.) Jose Vallejo—Texas Rangers

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
BAK	CAL	.287	75	310	48	89	14	2	9	50	134	26	46	27	3	.349	.432	.781
FRI	TEX	.297	64	259	34	77	15	2	2	31	102	15	45	15	1	.341	.394	.734
Minors		.292	139	569	82	166	29	4	11	81	236	41	91	42	4	.345	.415	.760

Strengths: Lethal top of the order speed and high efficiency on the basepaths.  Vallejo was successful on 94% of his stolen bag attempts (89 of 96) over the last two seasons.  His bat produces sizzling line drives from both sides of the plate and he showed a big spike in XBH power at both High-A and AA last season.  Defensively, Vallejo has good range and a strong arm that should make him an above average fielder.

Weaknesses:  Vallejo’s increase in power came at two environments that tend to surrender inflated offensive numbers.  Is the power spike for real?  Also, Jose needs to trim up his BB/K ratio.  Turning 15-20 of those strikeouts into walks could make him a top of the order hitter.

2009 Outlook: Vallejo may be a victim of circumstance.  Ian Kinsler has emerged as a perennial All-Star and his tenure in Texas looks to be a long one.  However, the Rangers are on the cusp of being a bonafide contender in the AL West and Vallejo could find himself being shipped to another organization in a package deal for more pitching depth.  Jose will increase his stock if he can demonstrate that the power increase is real.  He’ll get a chance to do that at AA Frisco this year.

 

8.) Adrian Cardenas—Oakland Athletics

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
CLE	FSL	.307	68	261	44	80	11	6	4	23	115	28	42	16	0	.371	.441	.812
STO	CAL	.278	15	72	11	20	1	0	1	10	24	1	14	1	0	.297	.333	.631
MID	TEX	.279	26	86	12	24	4	0	0	7	28	15	10	0	1	.392	.326	.718
Minors		.296	109	419	67	124	16	6	5	40	167	44	66	17	1	.364	.399	.763

 

Strengths: Adrian has a smooth left-handed swing that should develop 15-20 HR power and a high batting average as he matures.  He makes good contact at the plate and has good plate discipline.  Cardenas has average athleticism and speed, but he uses what he has efficiently.

Weaknesses: He has a thick torso and legs that should get slower as he ages.  He may eventually end up at 3B which would make his power potential a touch below average. 

2009 Outlook: Adrian should start the season back at AA Midland.  This should give the 21 year old a chance to develop his power numbers a little more.  Mark Ellis and Eric Chavez are under contract through at least 2010, which should give Cardenas more than enough time to refine his skills.

 

9.) Matt Antonelli—San Diego Padres

2008 Stats:

2008 Season
Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
POR	PCL	.215	128	451	62	97	19	4	7	39	145	76	86	6	4	.335	.322	.657
Minors		.215	128	451	62	97	19	4	7	39	145	76	86	6	4	.335	.322	.657
MLB		.193	21	57	6	11	2	0	1	3	16	5	11	0	0	.292	.281	.573

 

Strengths: Antonelli plays at full throttle at all times.  He has a strong, athletic body that could produce 20 HR/20 SB seasons.  Matt grinds out AB’s and works deep into counts which helps boost his walk totals and on base percentage.

Weaknesses: What happened in 2008?  Antonelli’s precipitous drop off is a little concerning as the usual culprits (injuries or breakdowns in plate discipline) were not factors.  He has solid athleticism now but, like Cardenas, he has a thick build that could lose speed and athleticism as he gets older.

2009 Outlook: Antonelli may have been a victim of bad luck in 2008.  Expect his numbers to rebound to a level that is in between his stellar ‘07 season and his lack luster ‘08.  The Padres currently list Edgar Gonzalez and Luis Rodriguez ahead of Antonelli on their depth chart, but a big spring could well change all of that.  Otherwise, Matt will start the season at AAA Portland and earn a call up at some point soon after Opening Day.

 

10.) Ryan Mount—Los Angeles Angels

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
RCQ	CAL	.290	82	338	68	98	17	5	16	49	173	23	67	10	2	.337	.512	.849
Minors		.290	82	338	68	98	17	5	16	49	173	23	67	10	2	.337	.512	.849

 

Strengths: Big time raw power.  Mount blasted 14 of his 16 HR’s over the final two months of the season.  His frame is continuing to develop and the promise for more power is intriguing.  He makes good contact at the plate and can steal the occasional bag as well.

Weaknesses: Nagging injuries, especially in his legs, has slowed his development and probably will diminish his athleticism as he ages.  Mount already has fringe average range at 2B and his glovework was not awe inspiring.  Mount needs to continue to work on raising his walk totals as advanced pitchers will exploit his aggressiveness.

2009 Outlook: Mount has been preliminarily placed on Salt Lake City’s roster, which seems a tad aggressive given his limited exposure at lower levels.  If Mount can stay healthy, his offensive upside is as good as Sean Rodriguez’s.  His heavy legs may force him to move to 3B down the road.

 

11.) Jemile Weeks-Oakland Athletics

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
KCC	MID	.297	19	74	11	22	3	1	1	8	30	13	12	6	2	.422	.405	.828
Minors		.297	19	74	11	22	3	1	1	8	30	13	12	6	2	.422	.405	.828

 

 

Strengths: Weeks is a prototypical leadoff hitter with elite speed, excellent plate discipline, and a line drive bat.  Weeks makes good contact with most everything he swings at and has good defensive range.

Weaknesses: His other defensive skills are below average which means that a shift to the OF may happen soon.  Weeks doesn’t have near as much power as his older brother Rickie.

2009 Outlook: Weeks should play at High-A Stockton to start the season.  Given that he has extensive collegiate experience, a performance based promotion to AA Midland is not at all out of the question.  The A’s have been devoid of speedy, top of the order guys in their farm system for years.  Jemile has a good chance to buck that trend within the next 2-3 seasons.

12.) Chih-Hsien Chiang—Boston Red Sox

2008 Stats:

2008 Season
Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
LNC	CAL	.303	83	320	47	97	19	2	9	59	147	18	52	2	1	.337	.459	.797
Minors		.303	83	320	47	97	19	2	9	59	147	18	52	2	1	.337	.459	.797

 

Strengths: His bat is the real deal.  Chiang has a long, agile frame that should be able to hit for more power without sacrificing his good batting average.  The Taiwanese prospect makes good contact at the plate and is aggressive with pitches in the strike zone.

Weaknesses: Chiang is not a good defensive player.  He worked out in the Fall Instructional League as an OF, which means that a position change could happen as soon as this spring.  Chiang is not a weapon on the basepaths either. 

2009 Outlook: AA Portland well be a challenge for Chiang.  Watch to see how his power and defense progresses.  With his big frame, he has the potential to be a 15-20 HR hitter within the next season or two.

 

13.) L.J. Hoes—Baltimore Orioles

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
ORI	GCL	.308	48	159	36	49	4	3	1	18	62	30	22	10	0	.416	.390	.806
Minors		.308	48	159	36	49	4	3	1	18	62	30	22	10	0	.416	.390	.806

 

Strengths: Hoes has an impressive assortment of tools.  His sinewy 6-1 185 lb. frame should build good power as he matures and his speed is well above average.  Many young hitters struggle with their plate discipline coming out of HS, but Hoes’ 30 BB/22 K ratio is nothing short of awesome.  Hoes also has a hose for an arm, being clocked at 95 MPH in high school.  He is said to be a good teammate with a tremendous work ethic as well.

Weaknesses: Right now, it has to be experience, especially at 2B.  Hoes was an outfielder in high school and has only recently made the transition to the infield.  There is promise that he will develop good power, but it is really too early to tell for sure.

2009 Outlook: There is a lot to like in this youngster and his ranking may be a bit conservative at this time.  He should get a shot at full season ball with Delmarva this spring.  That should give us all a better feel for just how good this Maryland native could someday be.

 

14.) Luis Valbuena—Cleveland Indians

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
WTN	SOU	.304	70	240	43	73	12	2	9	40	116	31	37	8	4	.381	.483	.864
TAC	PCL	.302	58	212	41	64	9	0	2	20	79	28	32	10	4	.383	.373	.756
Minors		.303	128	452	84	137	21	2	11	60	195	59	69	18	8	.382	.431	.813
MLB		.245	18	49	6	12	5	0	0	1	17	4	11	0	0	.315	.347	.662

 

Strengths: Valbuena has a nice left-handed swing that produces decent power to the gaps and line drives to all fields.  His BB/K ratio improved significantly in ‘08 and he has the speed to steal double digit bags at the major league level.  Defensively, Valbuena has good range and consistently makes plays and limits his error totals.

Weaknesses: The offensive skills are good but not great.  Valbuena’s ceiling is limited to being a solid, middle of the road second baseman with better than average defensive skills.  While this is not necessarily bad, it won’t propel him into the upper echelon of this list.

2009 Outlook: Luis’ skill set is major league ready, but he must first find a way to distinguish himself from the other 2nd basemen on Cleveland’s roster.  His best chance to do that will be this spring.  If he can hit for the power that he displayed in the Venezuelan Winter League (.291 5 HR 20 RBI), there is a possibility that he could make the Tribe’s 25 man roster.  Otherwise, he will head to AAA Columbus to play every day and wait for an opportunity.

 

15.) Ryan Adams—Baltimore Orioles

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
DEL	SAL	.308	119	448	68	138	26	5	11	57	207	36	109	12	5	.367	.462	.829
Minors		.308	119	448	68	138	26	5	11	57	207	36	109	12	5	.367	.462	.829

 

Strengths: Adams has gap power and a strong, athletic frame.  His speed is a tick above average which plays well on the basepaths.  His arm strength is very good which opens his options to play at several positions.

Weaknesses: A change to another position might be a good move.  Adams was awful defensively, making 46 errors at 2B.  He also needs to become a more disciplined hitter.   Last year, Ryan walked just 36 times while punching out 109 times.

2009 Outlook:  There are plenty of things to like in Adam’s bat, but his skills need a great deal of refining.  he will start the ‘09 season at High-A Frederick.  Keep an eye on where he ends up defensively.  It is quite possible that this will be his only appearance on this list.

 

16.) David Adams—New York Yankees

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
STA	NYP	.257	67	257	45	66	19	2	4	31	101	32	57	8	2	.350	.393	.743
Minors		.257	67	257	45	66	19	2	4	31	101	32	57	8	2	.350	.393	.743

 

Strengths: This former Virginia Cavalier has a big strong frame but still is nimble enough to be a decent middle infielder a la Jeff Kent.  Adams has the potential to hit for good power numbers and he is deceptively quick.  He is a hard-nosed player with an agressive drive to succeed.

Weaknesses: His size may get in his way as he ages.  He does have a strong enough arm to play 3B, but a move to the hot corner makes his 18-22 HR potential less alluring.

2008 Outlook: Adams will get to start at Low-A Charleston, but any sustained level of success there should earn him a promotion to Tampa.  He should take a good 2-3 seasons to develop, which should give the Yankees ample time to see if he can eventually fill the shoes of All-Star 2B Robinson Cano.

 

17.) Chris Getz—Chicago White Sox

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
CHA	INT	.302	111	404	60	122	24	1	11	52	181	41	53	11	4	.366	.448	.814
Minors		.302	111	404	60	122	24	1	11	52	181	41	53	11	4	.366	.448	.814
MLB		.286	10	7	2	2	0	0	0	1	2	0	1	1	1	.286	.286	.571

 

Strengths: Getz is a scrappy player with a line drive bat and solid plate discipline.  He has good defensive instincts and gets the most out of his average speed on the basepaths.

Weaknesses: He has a gaggle of fringe average tools.  He gets the most out of his abilities, but there aren’t many things in his game that makes him a standout player.  Getz is one of those role players that will always be looking over his shoulder for the bigger, better prospect waiting to unseat him.

2009 Outlook: Chris is at the top of the White Sox depth chart at second base.  He should get every opportunity to keep that position but, as stated earlier, his margin for error is finite.

 

18.) John Tolisano—Toronto Blue Jays

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
LAN	MID	.229	120	432	64	99	20	8	6	47	153	56	110	5	2	.315	.354	.669
Minors		.229	120	432	64	99	20	8	6	47	153	56	110	5	2	.315	.354	.669

 

Strengths: Tolisano has built his strength over the last couple of years providing a quicker and more leveraged swing that should provide 15-20 HR power in time.  He has a very strong arm and decent enough range to stick at 2B. 

Weaknesses: He strikes out way too much.  His aggressiveness leads him to swing at pitches out of the zone and to fail to recognize off speed offerings.  His added bulk has made him a touch slower on the basepaths and could cause him to lose a step in the field.

2009 Outlook: Tolisano had a big time drop off in the second half of last season at Low-A Lansing.  He may find himself back there initially in 2009 to work out some issues at the plate.  The Blue Jays are quite optimistic about his future, but his skills will take a good deal of time and patience to fully develop.

 

19.) Eric Farris—Milwuakee Brewers

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
WVA	SAL	.293	103	454	73	133	21	4	3	54	171	24	50	32	10	.332	.377	.709
Minors		.293	103	454	73	133	21	4	3	54	171	24	50	32	10	.332	.377	.709

Strengths: Farris has blazing speed and a quick bat that makes consistent contact and slashes line drives for a high average.  Farris’ quickness gives him a great deal of range at 2B and makes him a weapon on the basepaths.

Weaknesses: Eric has virtually no power and despite his speed, he is a mediocre defensive infielder.  He needs to build strength with the bat and consistency with the glove.

2009 Outlook: Farris will be AA Huntsville’s starting 2B this season.  The Brewers’ farm system doesn’t have many good middle infielders—especially 2nd basemen.  Farris has some nice top of the lineup tools, but there are several deficiencies in his game that may force the organization to look elsewhere for projectible talent. 

 

20.) Justin Snyder—New York Yankees

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
CHA	SAL	.288	132	504	77	145	33	3	7	59	205	68	95	7	1	.371	.407	.777
Minors		.288	132	504	77	145	33	3	7	59	205	68	95	7	1	.371	.407	.777

Strengths: Snyder is polished and patient at the plate.  He has shown the ability to be versitile, serving time at five different positions in ‘08.  He has decent power to the gaps and is a smart and competitive situational hitter.

Weaknesses: Similar to Chris Getz, Snyder is a low ceiling player who will be bumped around by more talented prospects.  He doesn’t have great power and his speed is average at best. 

2009 Outlook: Justin will move to High-A Tampa to continue in his development.  If he could bump up his HR totals, his value as a prospect would be considerably better. 

 

Others to consider: Daniel Mayora, Emmanuel Burriss, Shelby Ford, Yung-Chi Chen, Emilio Bonafacio, Justin Turner, Ryan Dent, Tony Thomas, Johnny Giavotella

Ok, it is late and I am sleepy….I hope you enjoy the list of 2B and, as always, I can’t wait to hear your comments and/or your own lists.

Top 20 First Base Prospects for 2009

Posted by Jeremy on February 2, 2009 under 2009 Top 20 Prospects | 2 Comments to Read

Hello everyone!  Sorry for the delay in getting this list out.  I have been away from the keyboard the past couple of days only to find that a vast influx of readers have stopped by to check things out.  To those of you who are new to Porter’s Prospect Report, please feel free to drop a line and say howdy.  Thank you to all for reading and I hope you enjoy this installment of the Top 20 prospects as we make our way down the 1st base line. 

As expected, this list was even more difficult to rank than the catchers, thanks in large part to a handful of 2008 draftees who all have bright futures ahead of them but not a whole lot of professional data to mull over.  Without further ado, here’s the list…

#1.) Justin Smoak—Texas Rangers

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
CLI	MID	.304	14	56	9	17	3	0	3	6	29	5	10	0	0	.355	.518	.873
Minors		.304	14	56	9	17	3	0	3	6	29	5	10	0	0	.355	.518	.873

 

Strengths: Massive power from both sides of the plate a la Mark Teixeira.  He also has excellent plate discipline and is an above average defensive 1B.  The biggest question about Smoak is:  Why did he slip all the way to the 10th spot in the draft?

Weaknesses: He will not set any land speed records on the bases and his defensive acumen does not extend beyond 1B.

2009 Outlook: Smoak played in the Arizona Fall League briefly which indicates to me that he will start his season with High-A Bakersfield in the California League.  Given that tasty tidbit of info, it is quite likely that he will put up some gaudy numbers and a trip to AA Frisco on the Texas Ranger fast track is, by no means, out of the question.

2.) Lars Anderson—Boston Red Sox

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
LNC	CAL	.317	77	306	58	97	19	1	13	50	157	46	64	0	0	.408	.513	.921
POR	EAS	.316	41	133	27	42	13	0	5	30	70	29	43	1	0	.436	.526	.962
Minors		.317	118	439	85	139	32	1	18	80	227	75	107	1	0	.417	.517	.934

 

Strengths: Lars is a polished hitter with a tall, powerful frame that will develop more power as he matures.  He drives just about everything that he swings at and utilizes top notch plate discipline to boot.  Defensively, Anderson is a whiz with the potential to earn Gold Gloves in future seasons.

Weaknesses: Much like Smoak, Anderson is not a particularly quick baserunner and his defensive abilities are limited to first base.

2009 Outlook: The Red Sox are pretty well set with Youkilis manning the controls for the next couple of seasons and Mike Lowell and David Ortiz signed through 2010.  That should keep Anderson at AAA for the entire season with, perhaps a September cameo possible this season.  Lars is too good to keep down for long and the Red Sox may decide to get creative this off season to prepare room for their #1 overall prospect.

3.) Logan Morrison—Florida Marlins

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
JUP	FSL	.332	130	488	71	162	38	1	13	74	241	57	80	9	3	.402	.494	.896
Minors		.332	130	488	71	162	38	1	13	74	241	57	80	9	3	.402	.494	.896

 

Strengths: Like Smoak and Anderson, Morrison employs a lethal combination of power, batting average and plate discipline to make him one of the league’s up an coming sluggers.  His numbers in the Arizona Fall League (.404 5 HR 29 RBI) shows that his ‘08 dip in power may be an aberration.

Weaknesses: He is an average fielder at 1B, and his boost in batting average in ‘08 came at the expense of some of his power.  While he has the potential to hit for both, there is an ever so slight uncertainty that it will happen.

2009 Overview: AA should provide a good bearing on Logan’s projectible future.  If his AFL contributions are any indicator, Gaby Sanchez’s reign as the Marlins’ starting 1B will be a very short one.

4.) Yonder Alonso—Cincinnati Reds

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
WAI	HWB	.308	29	104	17	32	9	0	4	21	53	20	23	1	0	.419	.510	.929

Strengths: A solid high average bat that should produce at least 20-25 HR power in the major leagues.  His plate discipline and patience may be the best from any prospect in the ‘08 draft class as well.

Weaknesses: He is a fringe average defensive 1B who has virtually no shot at playing any other positions.  He has a pudgy frame that could add unwanted, performance detracting weight in future seasons.

2009 Overview: Alonso’s polish and sterling performance in the Hawaiian Winter League should allow him to jump directly to AA Carolina for the beginning of the ‘09 season.  The Reds are well set with Joey Votto performing the every day duties at 1B, but Alonso’s bat will not wait long in the Reds’ farm system.  Votto has the ability to play LF, though, and it seems reasonable that he could move there to make room for Yonder by 2010.

5.) Freddie Freeman—Atlanta Braves

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
ROM	SAL	.316	130	491	70	155	33	7	18	95	256	46	84	5	5	.378	.521	.899
Minors		.316	130	491	70	155	33	7	18	95	256	46	84	5	5	.378	.521	.899

Strengths: Freeman has just scratched the surface of what his towering and powerful frame can produce.  He shows an incredible aptitude for driving in runs and driving the ball to all fields and scouts say that the ball sounds different coming off of his bat.  Defensively, Freeman has good instincts around the bag and a strong arm as well.

Weaknesses: His 6-5 220 lb. frame has the potential to build quite a bit more bulk, which should cut into his athleticism even further.  He will also have to increase his walk totals as he progresses.

2009 Outlook: The Braves should send Freeman to High-A Myrtle Beach to team with OF prospects Jason Heyward.  Freeman will be just 19 this season and his potential to be an elite power hitter could boost him to the top of this list in the next season or two.

 

6.) Kyle Blanks—San Diego Padres

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
SAN	TEX	.325	132	492	75	160	23	5	20	107	253	51	90	5	4	.404	.514	.918
Minors		.325	132	492	75	160	23	5	20	107	253	51	90	5	4	.404	.514	.918

 

Strengths: Blanks is a hitting machine, lacing line drives to the gaps and piling up RBI’s in bunches.  He has solid plate discipline and his nimble feet around 1B belies his behemoth-like frame.

Weaknesses: His 6-6 270 lb. frame has some softness and could be an injury culpability over time.  Despite his size, Blanks doesn’t drive balls for power to the opposite field much.  This could just be an approach thing that could be rectified with more work.  Also, his defensive skill set doesn’t extend beyond the first base bag, which siginificantly limits his opportunities with San Diego.

2009 Outlook: The Padres already have a pretty good 1B in Adrian Gonzalez which means that Blanks should get a heavy dose of AAA pitching this season.  Gonzo’s contract extends through 2011 and the price tag is quite low.  This makes Blanks a prime candidate for a change of scenery as a high-value trading chip within the next season or two.

7.) Eric Hosmer—Kansas City Royals

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
IDF	PIO	.364	3	11	2	4	2	0	0	2	6	3	2	0	0	.533	.545	1.079
Minors		.364	3	11	2	4	2	0	0	2	6	3	2	0	0	.533	.545	1.079

 

Strengths: Prime time power potential and the ability to hit for a high average.  Hosmer was the most polished prep hitter of the ‘08 draft.  His defense has also drawn rave reviews as his range, arm strength, and soft hands are all well above average.

Weaknesses: Not enough data at the major league level.  His plate disicpline at a pro level and power output will be monitored closely.  Like many big hitters, Hosmer’s long arms can make him more culpable to being jammed by pitches up and in.

2009 Outlook: The Royals are flush with 1B prospects througout their system, but Hosmer is far and away the best of the bunch.  It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Hosmer get a shot at full season Low-A Burlington come April.

8.) David Cooper—Toronto Blue Jays

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
AUB	NYP	.341	21	85	10	29	10	1	2	21	47	10	16	0	1	.411	.553	.963
LAN	MID	.354	24	96	15	34	10	0	2	17	50	10	14	0	0	.415	.521	.936
DUN	FSL	.304	24	92	10	28	9	0	1	13	40	10	16	0	0	.373	.435	.807
Minors		.333	69	273	35	91	29	1	5	51	137	30	46	0	1	.399	.502	.901

 

Strengths: Has the potential to be a future batting champion.  Cooper hits frozen ropes from foul line to foul line with the potential to hit 25-30 HR per season. 

Weaknesses: He is not an exceptional defensive player and has below average speed.

2009 Outlook: After playing at three levels last season, it is quite apparent that Cooper is on a fast track to Toronto.  The Blue Jays have current 1B Lyle Overbay signed through the 2010 season, which should provide Cooper with ample time to put the finishing touches on his development.  He should spend most of the season at AA New Hampshire but a promotion to AAA Syracuse and, perhaps, a September audition in Rogers Centre could also be in the cards.

 

9.) Kila Ka’aihue—Kansas City Royals

2008 Stats:

NWA	TEX	.314	91	287	64	90	11	0	26	79	179	80	41	3	2	.463	.624	1.086
OMA	PCL	.316	33	114	27	36	4	0	11	21	73	24	26	0	0	.439	.640	1.079
Minors		.314	124	401	91	126	15	0	37	100	252	104	67	3	2	.456	.628	1.085
MLB		.286	12	21	4	6	0	0	1	1	9	3	2	0	0	.375	.429	.804

 

Strengths: Ka’aihue’s ‘08 season was remarkable in every way.  Eye popping power production, a .300+ batting average and more than 100 walks made him a pitcher’s nightmare at multiple levels. 

Weaknesses: His incredible ‘08 season represents a huge spike over the production from the previous four years worth of statistics.  Has he taken a step forward in development or is this a one year aberration?  His defense at 1B is only so-so and he may profile better as a DH.

2009 Outlook: No one was more disappointed with the Royals’ trade for Mike Jacobs than Kila Ka’aihue.  This development ensures that the Hawaiian slugger will either be mired in a part time 1B/DH gig with K.C. or, more likely, will head to AAA Omaha to demonstrate that he can re-enact his numbers from last season.

 

10.) Chris Carter—Oakland Athletics

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
STO	CAL	.259	137	506	101	131	32	4	39	104	288	77	156	4	0	.361	.569	.930
Minors		.259	137	506	101	131	32	4	39	104	288	77	156	4	0	.361	.569	.930

Strengths: Chris Carter may just be the king of the HR hitters on this power-packed list.  Even more scary is the fact that his 39 HR from ‘08 may be peanuts compared to what he could produce once his 6-4 210 lb. frame fills out a bit more.  Carter has shown a willingness to draw walks and his 32 doubles hit shows a willingness to be a more complete hitter.

Weaknesses: Carter strikes out…a lot. His mediocre batting average in the California League infers that his all or nothing approach could be exploited at higher levels.  The A’s have also struggled to find a defensive home for Carter, as he has spent time at 1B, 3B, and in the OF with ho-hum results. 

2009 Outlook: Carter will take his big bat to AA Midland to prove that the friendly skies of Stockton did not influence his HR totals.  While his power is prestigious, Carter has several wrinkles in his game that still need to be ironed out over the next couple of seasons.

 

11.) Angel Villalona—San Francisco Giants

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
AUG	SAL	.263	123	464	64	122	29	0	17	64	202	18	118	1	2	.312	.435	.747
Minors		.263	123	464	64	122	29	0	17	64	202	18	118	1	2	.312	.435	.747

 

Strengths: Off the charts power projectibility.  Villalona has the ideal frame and swing to be a league-leading HR hitter.  He is agile for his size and should be a solid fielder akin to the former All-Star 1B Andres Galarraga.  Villalona is described by many within the Giants’ organization as being a humble, likeable person with a good work ethic.

Weaknesses: 18 BB vs. 118 K’s.  Villalona is an overly aggressive hitter who has rudimentry pitch recognition.  His strapping body has some baby fat on it which, if not trimmed down, could have detrimental effects on his athletic abilities.

2009 Outlook: Villalona improved as the season progressed which should earn him a promotion to High-A San Jose.  If he struggles though, he may head back to Augusta for more refining.  At just 18 years old, the sky is the limit for Angel.

 

12.) Sean Doolittle—Oakland Athletics

2008 Stats:

Strengths: Doolittle is a polished hitter with promising gap power with an athletic and projectible 6-3 190 lb. frame.  He his has the ability to play 1B at a Gold Glove level, but his range and arm strength also makes him a viable outfielder as well.

Weaknesses: Sean’s strikeout totals (154 in 135 games) were uncharacteristically high, perhaps due to the fact that he made a more concerted effort to increase his power numbers. 

2009 Outlook: Doolittle’s solid showing in the Arizona Fall League (.293 8 HR 26 RBI) may earn him a promotion to AAA Sacramento for the start of the ‘09 season.  It is quite difficult to figure out where the former Virginia Cavalier will play in Oakland as the roster is already overflowing with OF’s and 1B.  Things should really open up for Doolittle in 2010 as Matt Holliday and Jason Giambi will be gone and the Daric Barton era at 1B will likely come to an end.

 

13.) Beau Mills—Cleveland Indians

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
KIN	CAR	.293	125	482	78	141	34	3	21	90	244	54	105	2	3	.373	.506	.880
Minors		.293	125	482	78	141	34	3	21	90	244	54	105	2	3	.373	.506	.880

 

Strengths:  Mills offers a comprehensive package of average and power potential.  His 6-3 220 lb. frame is strong and durable.  Beau has good MLB bloodlines as his dad Brad Mills is a former MLB player and the Boston Red Sox bench coach.  His makeup and leadership skills have been lauded by the Indians’ organization.

Weaknesses: Like many 1B prospects, Mills is limited athletically and has slow footspeed.  He was a poor fielding 3B in college and his defensive potential as a 1B has yet to be determined. 

2009 Outlook: Mills showed good offensive numbers in a pitching friendly environment last season.  He moves to AA Akron to hopefully build on his promising power numbers.  The Indians will have some interesting decisions to make within the next couple of seasons as several promising power hitters like Matt LaPorta, Wes Hodges, and Nick Weglarz are all players whose defensive deficiencies in other areas may relegate them to becoming inadvertent competitors with MIlls at 1B.

 

14.) Brandon Allen—Chicago White Sox

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
WSW	CAR	.279	89	319	57	89	26	4	15	44	168	41	83	14	3	.372	.527	.898
BIR	SOU	.275	41	153	30	42	6	2	14	31	94	19	41	3	1	.358	.614	.973
Minors		.278	130	472	87	131	32	6	29	75	262	60	124	17	4	.367	.555	.922

 

Strengths:  Built like an NFL linebacker, Allen may be the most complete athlete on this list.  His power-packed bat has the potential to hit 30+ HR per season and he should also be able to produce 10-15 SB per year as well.  Allen nearly doubled his walk totals and his increased power did not have a negative effect on his K rate.

Weaknesses: Allen is still trying to figure things out defensively.  He has oscillated between the outfield and first base, but has yet to truly master either position.  His strikeout totals are still a bit too high and he will never contend for a batting average title.

2009 Outlook: Allen handled the challenges of AA ball exceedingly well, but there is no real need for the White Sox to rush him along yet.  Paul Konerko is signed through 2010, though it seems probable that Chicago will try to move him before then.  Allen needs to tune up his hands and footwork , and AA seems to be the best place to do it.  If he continues to mash, a promotion to AAA should happen at some point in ‘09.  Allen is just 23 years old and his future in the launching pad known as “The Cell” is quite promising.

 

15.) Brandon Snyder—Baltimore Orioles

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
FRD	CAR	.315	116	435	70	137	33	2	13	80	213	29	83	3	2	.358	.490	.848
Minors		.315	116	435	70	137	33	2	13	80	213	29	83	3	2	.358	.490	.848

 

Strengths: Snyder’s second half performance and his stint in the Arizona Fall League makes him a prime time breakout candidate for 2009.  Brandon has the potential to be a .300+ hitter with good power to the alleys.  His defense at 1B should be much better than it was as a catcher or third baseman too.

Weaknesses: Plate discipline still needs refining.  Snyder has a tendency to be overly aggressive and streaky at times.  He also has a stocky build that could add athletically inhibitive pounds as he ages.

2009 Outlook: AA Bowie will be a good test for Snyder.  The Eastern League, especially early in the season, can be tough on young hitters and their power numbers.  If he continues his torrid pace, Brandon’s stock could rise significantly.  The Orioles were hot bidders in the Mark Teixeira sweepstakes, which indicates their desire to add a big time bat to their infield.  Snyder has an opportunity this season to make the O’s believe that he can fill that void.

 

16.) Chris Marrero—Washington Nationals

2008 Stats:

Strengths: Limitless power projectibility and a sweet right-handed swing that can potentially hit for a high batting average.  Unlike many young power hitters, Marrero has a good feel for the strike zone and doesn’t rack up big strikeout totals.

Weaknesses: Injuries cut his 2008 season to just 70 games.  His 6-3 210 lb. frame is not overly athletic and it has been difficult for him to find a defensive home. 

2009 Outlook: Marrero has reportedly worked hard this offseason to get himself into tip-top shape for the ‘09 season.  Expect him to start at High-A Potomac again to shake the rust off.  If all goes well, he could find himself back on Washington’s fast track and his status on this list could rise significantly.

 

17.) Gaby Sanchez—Florida Marlins

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
CAR	SOU	.314	133	478	70	150	42	1	17	92	245	69	70	17	8	.404	.513	.917
Minors		.314	133	478	70	150	42	1	17	92	245	69	70	17	8	.404	.513	.917
MLB		.375	5	8	0	3	2	0	0	1	5	0	2	0	0	.375	.625	1.000

 

Strengths: Sanchez is a line drive hitter with average power and very good plate discipline.  He has put a great deal of effort into sculpting his body and increasing his athleticism.  Unlike most 1B prospects, Sanchez is not a liability on the basepaths.  In fact he has the potential to accrue double-digit SB numbers at the major league level. 

Weaknesses:  Gaby is an older prospect who has maxed out physically and likely will not develop above average power numbers.  Additionally, Sanchez appears to be a victim of circumstance as the highly touted Logan Morrison is knocking on the door to his major league career.

2009 Outlook: Sanchez has a good shot at winning the opening day nod for the Marlins in ‘09.  While he doesn’t hit for as much power as recently departed Mike Jacobs, his blend of batting average and plate discipline should be welcome additions to this power-packed lineup.

 

18.) Allan Dykstra—San Diego Padres

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
LAK	CAL	.292	7	24	5	7	1	0	1	10	11	7	7	0	0	.469	.458	.927
Minors		.292	7	24	5	7	1	0	1	10	11	7	7	0	0	.469	.458	.927

 

Strengths: At 6-5 220 lb., Dykstra is the prototypical statuesque power hitting lefty with a decent glove and advanced plate discipline.

Weaknesses: In the same vein of protypical 1B, Dykstra is athletically limited and a liability on the basepaths.  On a list of top-tier corner infielders, Dykstra is a solid but unspectacular talent.

2009 Overview: Dykstra is a few levels behind top prospect Kyle Blanks, which allows the Padres time to bring him along at a leisurely pace and to further decide what to do about their depth at 1B.  The Wake Forest alum is a few years away from his major league debut and, by that time, we will have a much better bearing on what can be expected from him in his major league career.

 

19.) Mark Trumbo—L.A. Angels

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
RCQ	CAL	.283	103	407	70	115	28	2	26	68	225	26	67	7	3	.329	.553	.882
ARK	TEX	.276	32	123	13	34	7	1	6	25	61	7	29	1	2	.311	.496	.807
Minors		.281	135	530	83	149	35	3	32	93	286	33	96	8	5	.325	.540	.864

 

 

 

 

Strengths: Trumbo has a classic power hitter’s swing that generates a high percentage of long flyballs.  He has put in great efforts to increase his strength and agility and the dividends are apparently paying off.

Weaknesses: The bulk of Trumbo’s numbers were accrued at Rancho Cucamonga, which has a history of inflating offensive performances (remember Brandon Wood’s 2005 season?).  Mark will be hard pressed to replicate those numbers at higher levels as his athleticism could limit him.  Additionally, his 33 BB/96 K ratio is less than desirable for someone of his power potential.

2009 Outlook: Kendry Morales is finally getting his shot at the starting gig in L.A.  His performance will dictate the pace at which Trumbo is promoted this coming season.  It is quite possible that Mark will start the ‘09 season back at Arkansas in hopes that he regains the power stroke that betrayed him in the AFL (1 HR in 154 AB).  Conventional wisdom should show that he is not quite as good as his Rancho Cucamonga numbers indicated.

 

20.) Mike Carp—Seattle Mariners

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
BIN	EAS	.299	134	478	67	143	29	1	17	72	225	79	88	1	2	.403	.471	.874
Minors		.299	134	478	67	143	29	1	17	72	225	79	88	1	2	.403	.471	.874

 

Strengths: Superb plate discipline and a line drive bat that hits line drives to all fields.  Carp has a good work ethic and showed resilience by bouncing back from a bad 2007 season.

Weaknesses: Carp’s power potential is significantly less than the other prospects on this list.  He is not a particularly good defensive player and he still struggles to hit left-handed pitching.  Put that all together and you have a platooning DH. 

2009 Outlook: The Mariners are, to say the least, a team in transition.  The assortment of 1B currently on the M’s roster is far from formidable.  Carp will start the season at AAA Tacoma, but there is a realistic shot that he will earn a call up at some point.  At just 22 years old, Carp could still develop into a Lyle Overbay-type player.

Others to consider: Brandon Laird, Anthony Rizzo, Ike Davis, Juan Miranda, Kala Ka’aihue, Joe Koshansky, Chris Parmelee, Michael Durant

Next up are the 2nd basemen, I should have them up within the next 48 HRs.  Enjoy!

Top 20 Catching Prospects in ‘09

Posted by Jeremy on January 29, 2009 under 2009 Top 20 Prospects | Read the First Comment

Here’s the first of a nine part series that will detail the top 20 prospects from each of the various positions on the diamond. Each profile offers only a brief overview.  For more detailed analysis, check out my other site Hot-Prospects.  The prototypical catcher has changed over the past decade or so. Gone are the days of the unathletic and offensively inept backstop. Today’s catching prospects have middle of the lineup bats, rocket arms and good athletic skills. This batch offers no exception and its headliner may just be the best overall prospect in baseball this season.

#1) Matt Wieters—Baltimore Orioles

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
FRD	CAR	.345	69	229	48	79	8	0	15	40	132	44	47	1	2	.448	.576	1.024
BOW	EAS	.365	61	208	41	76	14	2	12	51	130	38	29	1	0	.460	.625	1.085
Minors		.355	130	437	89	155	22	2	27	91	262	82	76	2	2	.454	.600	1.053

 

Strengths: Um….everything.  You name it, his bat, plate discipline, glove, arm, power, leadership, and work ethic are all at elite levels and ready for major league action. 

Weaknesses: He won’t steal many bags, but then again, which catchers do?  Also, and this is nitpicking, his size evokes comparisons to Joe Mauer which leads me to have fleeting concerns about future injury struggles.  Wieters has never had to miss action in the past, however, and shows no signs of slowing down yet.

2009 Outlook: The O’s signed Greg Zaun in the offseason as insurance for Wieters.  There’s no doubt that he is ready to start in the big leagues, but Baltimore may opt to keep him at AAA Norfolk just long enough hold back the hands of the arbitration clock.  A strong spring could and should make that a moot point.  Once he emerges, he is a top candidate for A.L. Rookie of the Year honors and for many future All-Star seasons.

2.) Buster Posey—San Francisco Giants

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
GIA	AZL	.385	7	26	8	10	3	1	1	4	18	5	4	0	0	.484	.692	1.176
SKV	NOR	.273	3	11	2	3	2	0	0	2	5	3	0	0	0	.429	.455	.883
Minors		.351	10	37	10	13	5	1	1	6	23	8	4	0	0	.467	.622	1.088

 

Strengths: Posey’s bat is electric, slashing deep drives to the gaps and down the lines.  He batted .469 with 23 HR and 93 RBI with the Florida State Seminoles this past season.  He has stellar plate discpline and hand eye coordination.  A converted SS, Posey may be the most athletic catching prospect in baseball with plus defensive skills and agility.

Weaknesses: It is unclear how much power Buster will hit for as a pro.  He had one big power season with an aluminium bat but has been more of a line drive guy since.  He has high upside behind the plate, but is still learning the subtle nuances of the position.

2009 Outlook: The Giants are excited to pair him up with top pitching prospects Madison Bumgarner and Tim Alderson at High-A San Jose.  Those three will serve as integral pieces in shaping the future success of the Giants organization and the outlook for that happening is quite good.

 

3.) Jesus Montero—New York Yankees

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
CHA	SAL	.326	132	525	86	171	34	1	17	87	258	37	83	2	1	.376	.491	.868
Minors		.326	132	525	86	171	34	1	17	87	258	37	83	2	1	.376	.491	.868

 

 

Strengths: His bat is golden.  In his first full season, Montero demonstrated that he can hit for a high average and that his power, while good now, has a chance to be great.  Unlike many young hitters, Montero doesn’t strike out too much and he seems to be quite willing to grind out walks 

Weaknesses: His glove is not golden.  Montero’s size affects his agility behind the dish and his quickness in throwing out baserunners (26 of 105).  His 6-4 225 lb. body is not done growing either which should mean that a switch to 1B or DH will soon follow.

2009 Outlook: It’s on to High-A Tampa for Montero to see if he can continue his torrid hitting.  Expect some of those 34 doubles from last season to become HR’s this season and, with the success of Austin Romine (more on him later) behind the dish, expect to see Jesus with a 1B or DH behind his name more often.

 

4.) Carlos Santana—Cleveland Indians

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
INL	CAL	.323	99	350	88	113	34	4	14	96	197	69	59	7	4	.431	.563	.993
KIN	CAR	.352	29	105	34	37	5	1	6	19	62	20	24	3	0	.452	.590	1.043
AKR	EAS	.125	2	8	3	1	0	0	1	2	4	0	2	0	0	.125	.500	.625
Minors		.326	130	463	125	151	39	5	21	117	263	89	85	10	4	.431	.568	.999

 

Strengths: His thunderous bat broke through big time in ‘08.  He produces surprising power with a compact swing and fast hands.  His plate discipline is top notch and he has a knack for driving in runs in clutch situations. 

Weaknesses: While he has good receiving skills, his arm is inaccurate (34 of 127 CS) and his release time is below average.  These things shouldn’t deter him from sticking as a catcher, though.  Santana had a great season, but the ability for him to repeat it is yet to be known.

2009 Outlook: Santana will move on to AA Akron where he had a cameo last season.  Heisted from the Dodgers in the Casey Blake trade, Santana is fully capable of becoming an exceptional option to fill the void behind the plate in Cleveland that Victor Martinez leaves behind. 

 

5.) Tyler Flowers—Chicago White Sox

2008 Stats:

Team	League	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	TB	BB	SO	SB	CS	OBP	SLG	OPS
MYR	CAR	.288	122	413	72	119	32	1	17	88	204	98	102	8	7	.427	.494	.921
Minors		.288	122	413	72	119	32	1	17	88	204	98	102	8	7	.427	.494	.921

 

Strengths: If the Arizona Fall League performance from Mr. Flowers (.387 12 HR 23 RBI 25 runs in 20 games) is any indication, T