2/25 Spring Training Report

Posted by Jeremy on February 26, 2009 under Uncategorized | Be the First to Comment

Day one kicked off yesterday with several youngsters having solid days, but the honors for today’s top prospect performance goes to Boston Red Sox SS Yamaico Navarro who went 2-2 with a HR, double two runs and 2 RBI.

Youngster of the Day—YAMAICO NAVARRO

 

Other notable performances:

• Freddie Freeman—1-2 2 RBI
• Jordan Schafer—1-4 HR (1) 2R RBI SB( (1)
• Chris Carter (Red Sox)—1-2 3 RBI BB
• Junichi Tazawa— IP 0 H (W)
• Edison Volquez— 3 IP BB 3K
• Johnny Cueto— 3 IP BB 3K (W)
• Colby Rasmus—2-5 R BB 2B
• Brett Gardner—1-3 HR(1) RBI
• Nick Evans—3-4 3R
• Shelby Ford—1-3 HR(1) 3 RBI
• Chris Johnson—1-2 HR (1) RBI
• Drew Sutton—2-2 2 R
• Hank Conger—2-3 3 RBI R
• Freddy Sandoval—2-3 2 RBI R
• Nelson Cruz—2-3 HR(1) 3 RBI 2 R
• Chris Davis—2-3
• Justin Smoak—2-2 R 2B
• Micah Hoffpauir—1-4 GS HR (1) 4 RBI
• Travis Buck—1-3 HR(1) 2 RBI
• Josh Outman—2 IP H K
• Stephen Head—1-1 HR(1) RBI BB
• Rob Johnson—1-2 HR(1) RBI

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!

11/4 HWL Report

Posted by Jeremy on November 5, 2008 under Uncategorized | Be the First to Comment

 Once again there were lots of great performances from the Hawaiian Winter League.  One thing of note was the fact that Adam Loewen, the oft-injured, former top LHP prospect from the Baltimore Orioles is playing 1B for the West Oahu Cane Fires.  At 6-5 235 lb., his development as a hitter is very intriguing to me.  He is stll fairly young (24) and is worthy of watching closely.  Here’s the rest of the report…

 

 

   West Oahu Cane Fires  13

• Caleb Gindl—2-5 2 2B R 3 RBI BB
• Mark Hallberg—2-4 3R 2 RBI 2 BB
• Cyle Hankerd—1-4 3 RBI R BB
• Greg Burns—1-4 2R RBI 2 BB
• Adam Loewen—1-3 2 BB R
• Logan Schafer—1-3 2B R 2 BB

 

 

 Honolulu Sharks  5

• Dominic Brown—2-4 2R BB
• Tony Cruz—2-4 2B R BB
• Kala Ka’aihue—2-3 HR(4) 4 RBI R BB
• Mike Mitchell—1-3 RBI SB( 8 )

 

 

 

 

 Waikiki Beach Boys  8

• Tony Thomas—3-5 HR(2) RBI
• Roger Kieschnick—2-5 HR(4) RBI
• Alfredo Silverio—2-5 R RBI
• James McOwen—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Yonder Alonso—1-3 R 2 BB
• Austin Romine—1-4 2B RBI R

 

 

 North Shore Honu  6

• Jason Castro—3-5 R RBI
• Yamiaco Navarro—2-4 RBI R
• Dustin Martin—1-5 2B 2 RBI
• Dustin Richardson—2 IP H 3K

10/18 & 10/19 HWL Reports

Posted by Jeremy on October 20, 2008 under Uncategorized | Be the First to Comment

Here’s a double dose of Hawaii for you!

 

 Honolulu Sharks  7

• James Rapoport—2-4 HR(2) 2 RBI
• Ruben Tejeda—2-5 2B 2R RBI SB(1)
• Dominic Brown—1-3 RBI 2 BB
• Brad Emaus—1-3 R RBI
• Greg Veloz—1-3 2R BB

 

 

 Waikiki Beach Boys  2

• Tony Thomas—2-4 2B R
• Roger Kieschnick—1-3 2B RBI
• Austin Romine—1-3 2B BB
• James McOwen—1-3 2B R

 

 

 

 West Oahu Cane Fires  7

• Chris Hatcher—2-3 HR(2) 2 RBI
• Mark Halberg—3-4 3 RBI
• Cyle Hankerd—2-3 2 RBI R BB
• Ty Henson—1-5 2B 2R SB(2)
• Caleb Gindl—2-4 BB

 

 North Shore Honu  6

• Ryan Kalish—2-4 R BB SB(9)
• Yamaico Navarro—2-4 2 RBI 2B R
• Matt McBride—2-5 2R RBI
• Kenji Sato—1-2 2B 2 BB RBI
• Jason Castro—1-4 2R BB

 

 

 

10/19 HWL Report:

 

 West Oahu Cane Fires  7

• Logan Schafer—3-4 HR(1) 4 RBI 2R 2B
• Chris Hatcher—3-4 3R
• Mark Halberg—1-4 2B R
• Wally Crancer—1-4 HR(1) RBI
• Andrew Hess—3 IP H BB K

 

 North Shore Honu  5

• Kenji Sato—3-4 2B R BB
• Yamaico Navarro—1-4 2R
• Sung Woo Jang—1-4 R 2 RBI

 

 

 

 Honolulu Sharks  2

• Tony Cruz—3-4 RBI SB(1)
• Michael Taylor—1-3 BB
• Ruben Tejeda—1-2 R
• Jonathan Venters—5 IP 3H 2 BB 5K (W)

 

 

 Waikiki Beach Boys  0

• Todd Frazier—1-2 2B BB
• Tony Thomas—1-3 3B BB
• Alex Garabedian—1-3 2B
• Mitsuo Yoshikawa—5 IP 5H ER 3BB 5K (L)

10/16 HWL Report

Posted by Jeremy on October 17, 2008 under Uncategorized | Be the First to Comment

 It was nice to see both teams in action last night.  Here’s a closer look at our four HWL teams.

 

 North Shore Honu  7

• Kyle Martin—2-5 2B R
• Matt McBride—2-5 2 RBI
• Kurt Mertins—2-5 3B R
• Yamaico Navarro—1-5 HR(1) RBI
• Jason Castro—1-3 R RBI 2 BB
• Sun Woo Jang—2-4 2B RBI R (M’s 18 yr old catcher)
• Ben Swaggerty—2 IP BB 5K (15 K’s in 10 IP)

 

 

 Waikiki Beach Boys  4

• Yonder Alonso—2-4 2 2B RBI R
• Alberto Silverio—2-5 2B R
• Tony Thomas—2-5 2R 2 3B
• Austin Romine—1-3 BB

 

 

 

 Honolulu Sharks  4

• Dominic Brown—2-4 2B 3B 2 RBI R (I love this kid!)
• Michael Taylor—1-4 2B 2 RBI
• Satoshi Nagai—5 IP 4H ER BB 3K (0.95 ERA)
• Shintaro Masuda—2-4 2R 2B

 

 

  West Oahu Cane Fires  2

• Greg Burns—1-3 R SB(3)
• Mitch Durham—1-3 RBI
• Kyle Peter—1-3 SB(3)

 

 

 

Now that we are a couple of weeks into the season, I will start trying to add some notable season stats to some of these guys for a little more flavor.  Later tonight, I will post the final results from today’s AFL games.  Stay tuned as the bats were hot today in the desert!

10/8 HWL Report

Posted by Jeremy on October 9, 2008 under Uncategorized | Be the First to Comment

Let me start by saying that I just love the Hawaiian Winter League logos. Especially after seeing the clip art syle of the Arizona Fall League logos.  I would have to say that the North Shore Honu is my personal favorite.

Oh, about the AFL, don’t forget to check out the Cardboard Connection for my six part preview series.  To date, 3 parts have been published and the other 3 are coming soon.  This is a budding site that is building steam quickly and is assembling a top notch contributory staff including editor Mike Smith, Andrew Chrisman from Sports Card Info and Mario Alejandro from Wax Heaven.

Now on to the games…

 

 Honolulu Sharks  3

• Dominic Brown—2-3 2B 2R
• Darin Holcomb—2-3 2B RBI
• Tony Cruz—1-3 2B RBI
• Josh Stinson—4 IP 2H 2BB 3K (W) *2-0*

 

 

 Waikiki Beach Boys  1

• Yonder Alonso—1-2 HR(1) RBI BB
• Yuhei Takai—5 IP 3H ER 3BB 6K

 

 

 

 North Shore Honu  13

• Corey Brown—2-4 2B R RBI BB SB(1)
• Kyle Martin—2-5 HR(2) 2 RBI 2B
• Kurt Mertins—2-2 HR(2) 4 RBI 3R BB SB(3)
• Matt McBride—2-4 HR(1) 2 RBI 3R BB
• Yamaico Navarro—2-4 2R RBI BB
• Jason Castro—1-4 2R BB

 

 West Oahu Cane Fires  6

• Jim Negrych—2-5 2R 2B
• Mitch Durham—2-5 R
• Kyle Peter—3-3 R 2 RBI BB

9/1 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on September 3, 2008 under Minor League Ball today | Be the First to Comment

Marcus Lemon

• 2-4 2B R RBI SB(12)—.295 8 HR 47 RBI 30 2B 12 SB

 

Yamaico Navarro

• 2-4 2R—.304 11 HR 77 RBI 79 R 27 2B

 

Daryl Maday

• 5 IP 6H 2 ER 9K (W)—13-5 2.48 ERA 130K/145IP .231 BAA

 

Brian Joynt

• 2-4 2R—.303 13 HR 68 RBI 29 2B .931 OPS

 

Kellen Kulbacki

• 1-4 2B RBI—.304 22 HR 75 RBI 71 R .910 OPS

 

Ryan Mount

• 2-4 2B R—.288 16 HR 48 RBI 68 R 10 SB in 81 games

 

Peter Bourjos

• 3-5 2R SB(49)—.296 9 HR 50 RBI 29 2B in 103 games

 

Sean O’Sullivan

• 8 IP 5H 3 ER 5BB 2K (W)—16-8 4.73 ERA 111K/158IP

 

Evan Frey

• 2-4 SB(37)—.314 3 HR 47 RBI 98 R 11 3B 37 SB over two levels

 

Matt Spencer

• 2-4 HR(14) RBI SB(12)—.279 14 HR 69 RBI 12 SB 76 BB

 

John Shelby Jr.

• 1-4 2B R RBI—.295 15 HR 80 RBI 33 SB 81 R 37 2B

 

Carlos Rivero

• 2-5 HR( 18 ) 3 RBI—.282 8 HR 64 RBI 27 2B

 

BUY/SELL Analysis

 

Brian Joynt entered the 2008 season as an unknown commodity.  A 29th round selection by the San Diego Padres, Joynt had an inauspicious 2007 campaign and began 2008 at High A Lake Elsinore where he battled early season injury issues that kept him out of the lineup until late May.  Since then, Joynt has opened eyes with his power potential, hitting .303 with 16 HR 48 RBI and 63 R and 29 doubles in just 76 games.  Joynt, the University of Nevada alum, has a prototypical power hitter’s build at 6-4 205 lb that could add more bulk and strength.  Observers say he has average speed and a decent glove that could be well suited to play 3B, 1B or at a corner OF spot. 

Joynt does not have any cards out right now and he is assuredly a sub-radar prospect.  Keep your eyes peeled for his inclusion in the ‘08 Bowman Heritage or Sterling sets and grab some early on.  I don’t think Joynt will be unknown for long.

8/26 High-A Minor League Report

Posted by Jeremy on August 28, 2008 under Minor League Ball today, Uncategorized | Be the First to Comment

Here’s a nice compilation of prospect performances from the California, Carolina, and Florida State leagues…

Jon Still

• 1-5 HR(22) RBI—Slumping lately (5-32 2 HR 6 RBI last 10 games)

 

Jason Place

• 1-4 HR(17) RBI—.246 17 HR 58 RBI 144 K’s

 

Yamaico Navarro

• 3-5 HR(11) 3 RBI 2B—.429 11 R 18 H last 10 games

 

Chris Carter

• 1-4 HR(37) RBI—Latest player to reach 100 RBI mark

 

Eric Campbell

• 2-3 HR( 18 ) 3 RBI—.252 18 HR 64 RBI 47BB/53K

 

Jason Heyward

• 0-6 K—Tough debut at Myrtle Beach in double header (no worries about him long term)

 

Scott Diamond

• 7 IP 5H BB K (W)—15-3 2.89 ERA 123K/153IP

 

Brandon Erbe

• 7 IP 2H BB 9K (W)—Back to back super outings following two bad outings

 

Brandon Snyder

• 3-5 2 2B 2R RBI—.417 15 H 7 R last 10 games

 

Michael Burgess

• 1-2 HR(24) 2 RBI BB—.278 4 HR 12 RBI 8 R last 10 games

 

Tyler Herron

• 7 OP 2H 2BB 6K—7-7 4.17 ERA 102K/138IP

 

Michael Taylor

• 2-5 HR( 18 ) RBI—.316 3 HR 8 RBI 7 R last 10 games

 

Sean West

• 7 IP 3H 8K (W)—4-2 1.81 ERA 51K/55IP

 

Christian Garcia

• 7 IP 7H ER 2BB 10K—4-2 2.90 ERA 60K/50IP in 10 games at Tampa

 

BUY/SELL Analysis

Yamaico Navarro was almost not included on Baseball America’s Top 30 Boston Red Sox prospects list.  The Red Sox have a treasure trove of highly talented SS prospects like Jed Lowrie, Oscar Tejeda, Will Middlebrooks, and Argenis Diaz.  Of all of them, though, Navarro is having the best offensive season.  Only 5-11 and 170 lb., Navarro has surprsing pop and great bat speed.  Navarro has caught fire in the month of August, hitting .417 with 40 hits 21 runs 2 HR and 15 RBI at Lancaster.  Navarro doesn’t always play with maximum effort and his plate discipline is inconsistent at times.  Navarro is one of the 2008 Bowman Chrome debutants and his regular chrome cards comand a price of 75 cents to $1.00 each.

Market Advice: The Red Sox have found something special in Jed Lowrie.  Fortunately for Navarro, he already has experience of playing 3B and his range, hands, and arm strength would make him a good one.  Right now, Navarro is making a strong case for future consideration by the Red Sox, but with Middlebrooks’ recent move to 3B, Navarro may find himself to be trade bait to another team.  Regardless of where he plays, the price of his cards are a great BUY right now considering the season he is having as a future Fenway fielder.