See below. Due to Montreal's 3-0 lead, I had to get this out before the WS is over and I am locked out. Consider this a rough draft. Enjoy!
1. Jonathan Gload Cincinnati – CF – DraftSea11rd1 – Proj: 94 – ETA: Season 15 – Outstanding ratings in almost every category, although only average in durability, health, and batting eye. Surprisingly, his career OPS in the minors has yet to creep over 1.000, although it should only be a matter of time. If he can stay on the field, he will be a Hall of Famer.
2. Benji Neill Chicago – 2B – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj: 95 – ETA: Season 14 – The first pick in Season 14, he should be a yearly contender for the batting crown. He will crush lefties and be above average against righties due to his tremendous eye and ability to get the bat on the ball. In AA in Season 13, he got on base half of the time, an amazing feat that will translate well to the bigs. Consummate #3 hitter.
3. Jose Segui Burlington – 3B – IFASea10 – Proj: 91 – ETA: Season 14 – Acquired from the Knee Bucklers for two top prospects, he should crack the Coat Factory’s lineup next season and be a nice replacement for the departing Brent Sabel. No apparent weaknesses, other than having to fill some pretty big shoes.
4. Quinton Trammell Chicago – SS – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj: 91 – ETA: Season 18 – Another stud in the Chicago system, this Ute has it all – intangibles, glove, durability, batting eye. Not an excellent hitter, but should be an All Star.
5. Derek Burgess San Juan – SS – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj: 90 – ETA: Season 18 – This slick fielding SS has solid intangibles and above average hitting ability. Will be one of the few defensive SS in the league with the ability to hit.
6. Rube Swann Los Angeles – SS – Draft12Rd1 – Proj: 90 – ETA: Season 17 – Contact, power, and vs. lefties in rare company. May be better suited as a 3B, and may not be as effective vs. righties. Otherwise, an amazing prospect and future stud for LA.
7. Wendell Reed Burlington – SS – DraftSea9Rd1 – Proj: 90 – ETA: Season 14 – A marginal SS but terrific prospect regardless. Hampered by injuries, but should be a mainstay in the Coat Factory line-up for years to come. All Star potential.
8. Kelly Hinch Chicago – 2B – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 90 – ETA: Season 16 – Extremely talented first pick of the draft that needs more seasoning before entering the big stage. Gold Glove caliber 2B, with excellent speed and above average hitting. A lock for multiple All Star teams.
9. Alan Flair New York – 2B - DraftSea13rd1 – Proj: 89 – ETA: Season 17 – Should hit for average and power and be a contender for multiple All-Star games. May struggle vs. lefties and strike out too much, otherwise a very good prospect.
10. Don Chen Vancouver – LF – IFASea13 – Proj: 89 – ETA: Season 18 – Inexplicably rushed through the minors, this Japanese outfielder has much to prove to the critics of his 28.1 million signing bonus. Eventually, he should hit for average and power and be a threat for the triple crown. Hopefully, the Otters will be patient with his development.
11. Keith Roosevelt - Memphis – CF – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj: 88– ETA: Season 14 – This speedy lefty will excel for the Pharohs beginning as soon as next season. Should hit for average and power and be just below the elite level, although multiple all-star appearances are not out of the question.
12. Richard Lee Los Angeles – SS – IFASea12 – Proj: 88 – ETA: Season 15 – Great power and outstanding eye. Good middle of the line-up talent.
13. Angel Siqueiros Albuquerque – 2B – IFASea9 – Proj: 87 – ETA: Season 14 – Originally signed by Burlington, he came over in the Jose Segui trade (also on this list). Outstanding prospect for the #2 or #3 hole, should be on base close to 40% of the time and hit over .325 yearly. Will be interesting to see who got the better of the trade.
14. Steve Blank New Britain – 3B – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj: 87 – ETA: Season 14 – Better suited for a corner outfield spot, this slugger should have a nice career in the middle of the Red Coats lineup for many seasons to come. Should have over 30 homers/year and knock in over 100 runs/year.
15. Omar Flores - Los Angeles – CF – IFASea10 – Proj: 86 – ETA: Season 14 – This defensive minded hothead should be patrolling the outfield for LA next season. Durable and reliable, he should have a long, productive career in the middle of the line-up.
16. J.C. Drew Memphis – 2B – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 86 – ETA: Season 15 – This ideal #3 hitter will excel at the ML level. Excellent contact and abover average hitting ratings should keep him in the discussion for multiple All-Star appearances.
17. Yank Sodowsky Pawtuckett – SS – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 86 – ETA: Season 15 – Better suited for 3B, this slugger would be an ideal #5 hitter. Poor splits and eye will kepp him from being elite.
18. Giovanni Jennings Arizona – 2B – DraftSea8Rd1 – Proj: 86 – ETA: Season 14 – Good speed and batting eye should compensate some for average hitting. A 3 year AAA veteran, he should break into the bigs next season.
19. John Baek Cincinnati – 2B – IFASea13 – Proj: 86 – ETA: Season 16 – Signed for 22.5 million, this Japanese transplant should be a star. Good range for a 2B, but may not have the glove to excel at that position. A multiple All-Star and might be an MVP candidate playing in the GABP.
20. Andy Carr Cincinnati – SS – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj: 86 – ETA: Season 15 – Defensive whiz that will be above average against righties and excellent against lefties. Gold Glove and All Star potential.
21. Tom Perez El Paso – 1B – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj: 85 – ETA: Season 18 – Has a long way to go to reach the ML level, but should have a nice career once he gets there. A devil on the basepaths, and enough power to be a mainstay in the middle of the order.
22. Mike Watson Houston – 2B – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 84 – ETA: Season 16 – Tremendous defensive 2B that should make the middle of the Hangovers order at some point. Gold Glove potential.
23. Hub Davey Portland – 2B – DraftSea13rd1 – Proj: 84 – ETA: Season 17 – Solid in every facet of his game, although not spectacular in any. Should have a nice long career and might make an All Star game.
24. Ernie McKnight Albuquerque – 2B – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 84 – ETA: Season 18 – Already in AA, this talented prospect should get more seasoning prior to joining the ML squad. Outstanding splits should lead to multiple All Star appearances.
25. Kory Catalanotto Vancouver – 1B – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 83 – ETA: Season 15 – Prodigious talent only hampered by a rush through the minors. Has the ability to win multiple MVP’s. One of the top prospects in the game.
26. Vic Martin Pawtucket – RF – DraftSea8Rd1 – Proj: 83 – ETA: Season 14 – An on-base monster, he should fill nicely in the 2 or 3 hole for SHOTGUN beginning next season. May struggle vs. lefties, but should bat over .300 and be on base close to .400 every season. May be better suited for LF.
27. Peter O'Connor Arizona – LF – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 83 – ETA: Season 17 – This butcher in the field will more than make up for it at the dish. Better suited for 1B or DH, he has the look of a young Eddie Reese and could have the production to match.
28. Archie Herzner Burlington – CF – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 82 – ETA: Season 16 – Plenty of pop and an above average glove will keep him as a staple of the Coat Factory lineup for years to come. May struggle to hit above .275, but should regurarly reach 25+ homers per year.
29. Louie Connor Texas – SS – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj: 82 – ETA: Season 16 – A butcher at SS, this lefty will ultimately line up at 3B for the Stampede. An above average hitter that will have an above average career.
30. Rondell May Pittsburgh – SS – DraftSea11Rd1* - Proj: 82 – ETA: Season 15 – Nice prospect that might need one extra year in the minors to refine his glove. Durable and reliable, but will never be outstanding offensively.
31. Carl Acker Charlotte – SS – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 81 – ETA: Season 18 – A defensive and speed specialist, this prospect will fit in nicely as a table setter vs. lefties. Average hitting will keep him from being elite.
32. Adrian Gonzales Buffalo – 2B – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj: 81 – ETA: Season 16 – Better suited for the corner outfield, this slugger has above average power and intangibles. A good clean-up prospect.
33. Harry Silva Scottsdale – RF- DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 81 – ETA: Season 17 – A career OPS over 1.000 in the minors will translate well to the ML level, assuming he is given time to reach his potential. 40/40 potential and a very good eye, should make multiple All-Star teams.
34. Aurelio Alvarez Honolulu – LF – IFASea10 – Proj:81 – ETA: Season 14 – The futures game MVP has done it all in the minors and should crack the big league line up as soon as next season. Excellent contact and power, average splits, and above average intangibles make him a lock for the middle of the order and a possibility for multiple All-Star appearances.
35. Geronimo Lunar Montreal – CF – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj: 81 – ETA: Season 18 – Defensive minded outfielder that will swipe over 50 bases per season. Top of the order talent only limited by an average eye and difficulties facing lefties.
36. Vinny Suzuki Pittsburgh – LF – IFASea13 – Proj: 80 – ETA – Season 18 – Best suited for 1B, this Japanese slugger should make his mark as a clean-up man for the Partymen. May not hit for average and may strike out a fair amount, but his power will keep him in the middle of the order for many seasons.
37. Edwin Skipworth Seattle – CF – DraftSea11Rd2 – Proj: 80 – ETA: Season 15 – Average talent that will play everyday in the ML level, but will never excel. Excellent defense and production vs. righties may get him into the discussion for an All-Star spot.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Top 10 Bullpen Prospects
1. Bernie Pena Burlington – IntlFASea12 – Proj: 87 – ETA: Season 14 – Late season IFA steal for the Coat Factory that should join one of the league’s best teams in the next season or so. Stamina should allow for spot starts, but the bullpen is the home for this late season IFA steal.
2. Randall Scott Anaheim – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj: 82 – ETA: Season 17 – The first reliever taken in the Season 13 draft, the flamethrowing righty has a chance to win multiple Fireman awards and close for any team in the league. Hall of Fame potential .
3. Tomas Mesa Los Angeles – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj: 84 – ETA: Season 14 – NL AAA Fireman of the Year winner should make his mark next season for the ML squad. Good stamina for either long or short relief duties, but should excel as a closer for the Hollywoods.
4. Adam Tucker Charleston – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj: 79 – ETA: Season 14 – This ML ready talent should ease into the Closer role for the Chews next season. All-Star talent.
5a. Rafael Telemaco New Britain – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 83 – ETA: Season 14 – This former Tar Heel could make it to the bigs next season in a long or short relief role, although the Red Coats seem to be bringing him along slowly. His impressive career stats should translate well to the ML level, whenever he gets there.
5b. Bert Throneberry Pittsburgh DraftSea9Rd1 - Proj. 85 - ETA: Now - Made his debut in the Season 13 playoffs, and hopefully will be able to recover from the shelling he took at the hands of the Tropics. Outstanding temper, patience, and makeup to go along with average splits and a lack of a quality #2 pitch. Regardless, should have a long career closing for the Partymen.
6. Daniel Reitsma Albuquerque – DraftSea11Rd4 – Proj: 79 – ETA: Season 15 – This draft day steal should make the bigs in the next season or so. Low durability and lack of control will prevent him from being elite.
7. Warren Hogan Honolulu – DraftSea11Rd2 – Proj: 77 – ETA: Season 15 – Could start, but is primarily used out of the bullpen, and with good results. He should be one of the top relievers in the ML as soon as he is promoted.
8. Bobby Melfi Memphis – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 77 – ETA: Season 15 – Used as a starter, his ratings indicate his money will be made out of the bullpen. Should have a nice, long career as one of the top long relievers in the game.
9. Kevin Yamaguchi San Juan – IFASea13 – Proj: 78 – ETA: Season 16 – This Japanese lefty should make his mark in the ML as a closer for the Stingrays. Good control, but may be vulnerable to righties with power.
10. Francisco Gil Scranton – IFASea9 – Proj: 78 – ETA: Season 14 – Solid prospect that may never have the stuff to close. Will struggle vs. lefties.
2. Randall Scott Anaheim – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj: 82 – ETA: Season 17 – The first reliever taken in the Season 13 draft, the flamethrowing righty has a chance to win multiple Fireman awards and close for any team in the league. Hall of Fame potential .
3. Tomas Mesa Los Angeles – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj: 84 – ETA: Season 14 – NL AAA Fireman of the Year winner should make his mark next season for the ML squad. Good stamina for either long or short relief duties, but should excel as a closer for the Hollywoods.
4. Adam Tucker Charleston – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj: 79 – ETA: Season 14 – This ML ready talent should ease into the Closer role for the Chews next season. All-Star talent.
5a. Rafael Telemaco New Britain – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 83 – ETA: Season 14 – This former Tar Heel could make it to the bigs next season in a long or short relief role, although the Red Coats seem to be bringing him along slowly. His impressive career stats should translate well to the ML level, whenever he gets there.
5b. Bert Throneberry Pittsburgh DraftSea9Rd1 - Proj. 85 - ETA: Now - Made his debut in the Season 13 playoffs, and hopefully will be able to recover from the shelling he took at the hands of the Tropics. Outstanding temper, patience, and makeup to go along with average splits and a lack of a quality #2 pitch. Regardless, should have a long career closing for the Partymen.
6. Daniel Reitsma Albuquerque – DraftSea11Rd4 – Proj: 79 – ETA: Season 15 – This draft day steal should make the bigs in the next season or so. Low durability and lack of control will prevent him from being elite.
7. Warren Hogan Honolulu – DraftSea11Rd2 – Proj: 77 – ETA: Season 15 – Could start, but is primarily used out of the bullpen, and with good results. He should be one of the top relievers in the ML as soon as he is promoted.
8. Bobby Melfi Memphis – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 77 – ETA: Season 15 – Used as a starter, his ratings indicate his money will be made out of the bullpen. Should have a nice, long career as one of the top long relievers in the game.
9. Kevin Yamaguchi San Juan – IFASea13 – Proj: 78 – ETA: Season 16 – This Japanese lefty should make his mark in the ML as a closer for the Stingrays. Good control, but may be vulnerable to righties with power.
10. Francisco Gil Scranton – IFASea9 – Proj: 78 – ETA: Season 14 – Solid prospect that may never have the stuff to close. Will struggle vs. lefties.
Top 25 SP Prospects
The first in a series of three prospect rankings (RP and Position Players to follow). These are my (jmercer77) rankings based on my advance scouting. Playes must currently be in the minors and have spent less than 10 innings in the bigs. Please let me know via trade chat if I missed anyone obvious and I'll adjust accordingly. On to the rankings!
1. Sammy Iglesias Montreal – DraftSea12Rd2 – Proj: 90 – ETA: Season 15 – Another reason for all of us in the AL to envy our French Canadian foe. In the discussion for best SP prospect in the game, he should move to the top of the Garde’s rotation in a couple of seasons, and be greeted to the collective groan of the rest of the league.
2. Ivy Latham Scranton – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj: 90 – ETA: Season 17 –This top pick in Season 13 is arguably the top prospect in the game. A perfect pitching prospect if he had a better temper and one less pitch. Should anchor the Nala Dogs for a very long time and compete for multiple Cy Young awards.
3. Geraldo Mendez Houston - IntlFASea13 – Proj. 90 – ETA: Season 17 - Top of the rotation fireballer with the ability to compete for multiple Cy Young awards. Another reason the rest of the NL despises the Hangovers. An absolute steal on the IFA market for the Hangovers.
4. Louis Melville Los Angeles – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj. 90 – ETA: Season 14 - ML ready SP that will fit in nicely at the top of the Hollywood’s rotation next season. May struggle at times vs. LH dominant line-ups but should have a long career at the top of the rotation.
5. Wascar Franco Scranton – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 85 – ETA: Season 16 – A lock for the top of the rotation, this #1 draft pick in Season 12 should be in line for multiple All-Star games and in the discussion for a couple of Cy Young awards. This lefty excels against righties, a quality that is hard to find.
6. Bubbles Judd Cincinnati – DraftSea13rd1 – Proj:89 – ETA: Season 18 – Tremendous talent that might be limited as a Starter due to his low stamina ratings. Could be a 20 game winner out of the bullpen.
7. Juan Vincente Scranton - IFASea13 - Proj:86 - ETA: Season 17 - the embarrassment of riches continues for Scranton. Along with Franco and Latham, should have the Nala Dogs competing for multiple WS titles. Might have the best career of the three.
8. Brant Riggan Cincinnati – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 86 – ETA: Season 16 - #1 or #2 SP prospect with excellent control and stamina. Versus LH and the development of a 3rd and 4th pitch may be the only things that keep him out of the Cy Young discussion.
9. Henry Stearns Buffalo – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 84 – ETA: Season 16 – Tremendous patience, temper, and makeup will keep him in the majors for a very long time, assuming he can stay healthy (a big assumption). Average pitches, in addition to poor health, keep him from being elite.
10. Anthony Patterson Baltimore – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj:84 – ETA: Season 17 – Has all the stuff to be an effective SP for any team. Below average pitches keep him from being a top of the rotation starter.
11. Steve Hamilton Charlotte – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj:83 – ETA: Season 17 – This lefty does everything well, but nothing extraordinary. Solid #2 or #3 SP prospect.
12. Victor Merrick Los Angeles – DraftSea9Rd1 – Proj:83 – ETA: Season 14 – Injury plagued prospect that will never fulfill the promise shown early in his career. His two stints to the 60-day DL will keep him from reaching his potential, but he should be a solid middle of the rotation guy nevertheless.
13. Dallas Singleton Houston – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj: 82 – ETA: Season 14 – ML ready now, and included on this list only because he has 1.2 innings in the Majors. Incredibly poor temper and difficulties vs. righties will keep him from excelling, although 20 wins/year is possible while playing for the Hangovers.
14. Paulie Fox San Juan – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 81 – ETA: Season 16 – Southpaw SP that will slay lefties. Average against righties and lacks quality 3rd and 4th pitches.
15. Dale Whitehill Chicago – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 81 – ETA: Season 16 – Solid prospect with good control and stamina. May struggle at times vs. righties but overall a solid prospect.
16. Fritz Lynch Montreal – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 80 – ETA: Season 15 – Groundballer with better pitches than splits. Should have better number than ratings indicate, another solid prospect for Montreal.
17. Alberto Martinez Scottsdale – IFASea13 – Proj: 78 – ETA: Season 17 – Very good prospect with the ability to crack the top of the rotation. May struggle at times vs. lefties, but otherwise is solid.
18. Pasqual Henriquez Pittsburgh – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 80 – ETA: Season 16 – Another lefty with great stamina and control. As we have seen with so many lefties, he may struggle against the right handed dominated line-ups that seem to be the norm in 1530.
19. Art Wingo Honolulu – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 80 – ETA: Season 17 – The guy with the funny name and funnier face will look to take out years of childhood angst on AL batters in the not so distant future. Solid prospect for the middle of the rotation and should have a productive career.
20. Vic Bonilla Buffalo – IFASea12 – Proj: 79 – ETA: Season 16 – Dominican with tremendous control and stamina, but below average splits. 95+ heat and three + pitches will keep him in the rotation for many years.
21. Otto Podsednik Honolulu – DraftSea11Rd1 –Proj:80 – ETA: Season 14 – Another lefty with problems vs. righties. Does everything else well and should be a solid middle of the rotation contributor.
22. Vinny Boyd St. Louis – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj. 79 – ETA: Season 15 – Fireballer with excellent assortment of pitches. Will struggle to stay deep into games and with right handed dominant line-ups.
23. Julio Lopez Burlington – IFASea13 – Proj: 79 – ETA: Season 16 – Dominican lefty that does just about everything well, but nothing spectacular. Should be a bottom of the rotation starter for one of the best rotations in the league.
24. Vic Bournigal Burlington – IFASea9 – Proj: 79 – ETA: Season 14 – Would be much higher on this list if he could control his pitches. AAA Cy Young in Season 13 indicates that he will be ready for the challenge next season.
25. Santo Calderone Charlotte – IFASea13 - Proj: 78 – ETA: Season 16 – Signed for 17 million in Season 13 and will have a hard time living up to the expectations. Tremendous control and solid pitch ratings will keep him in the bigs for a long time, assuming that he can stay healthy.
1. Sammy Iglesias Montreal – DraftSea12Rd2 – Proj: 90 – ETA: Season 15 – Another reason for all of us in the AL to envy our French Canadian foe. In the discussion for best SP prospect in the game, he should move to the top of the Garde’s rotation in a couple of seasons, and be greeted to the collective groan of the rest of the league.
2. Ivy Latham Scranton – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj: 90 – ETA: Season 17 –This top pick in Season 13 is arguably the top prospect in the game. A perfect pitching prospect if he had a better temper and one less pitch. Should anchor the Nala Dogs for a very long time and compete for multiple Cy Young awards.
3. Geraldo Mendez Houston - IntlFASea13 – Proj. 90 – ETA: Season 17 - Top of the rotation fireballer with the ability to compete for multiple Cy Young awards. Another reason the rest of the NL despises the Hangovers. An absolute steal on the IFA market for the Hangovers.
4. Louis Melville Los Angeles – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj. 90 – ETA: Season 14 - ML ready SP that will fit in nicely at the top of the Hollywood’s rotation next season. May struggle at times vs. LH dominant line-ups but should have a long career at the top of the rotation.
5. Wascar Franco Scranton – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 85 – ETA: Season 16 – A lock for the top of the rotation, this #1 draft pick in Season 12 should be in line for multiple All-Star games and in the discussion for a couple of Cy Young awards. This lefty excels against righties, a quality that is hard to find.
6. Bubbles Judd Cincinnati – DraftSea13rd1 – Proj:89 – ETA: Season 18 – Tremendous talent that might be limited as a Starter due to his low stamina ratings. Could be a 20 game winner out of the bullpen.
7. Juan Vincente Scranton - IFASea13 - Proj:86 - ETA: Season 17 - the embarrassment of riches continues for Scranton. Along with Franco and Latham, should have the Nala Dogs competing for multiple WS titles. Might have the best career of the three.
8. Brant Riggan Cincinnati – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 86 – ETA: Season 16 - #1 or #2 SP prospect with excellent control and stamina. Versus LH and the development of a 3rd and 4th pitch may be the only things that keep him out of the Cy Young discussion.
9. Henry Stearns Buffalo – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 84 – ETA: Season 16 – Tremendous patience, temper, and makeup will keep him in the majors for a very long time, assuming he can stay healthy (a big assumption). Average pitches, in addition to poor health, keep him from being elite.
10. Anthony Patterson Baltimore – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj:84 – ETA: Season 17 – Has all the stuff to be an effective SP for any team. Below average pitches keep him from being a top of the rotation starter.
11. Steve Hamilton Charlotte – DraftSea13Rd1 – Proj:83 – ETA: Season 17 – This lefty does everything well, but nothing extraordinary. Solid #2 or #3 SP prospect.
12. Victor Merrick Los Angeles – DraftSea9Rd1 – Proj:83 – ETA: Season 14 – Injury plagued prospect that will never fulfill the promise shown early in his career. His two stints to the 60-day DL will keep him from reaching his potential, but he should be a solid middle of the rotation guy nevertheless.
13. Dallas Singleton Houston – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj: 82 – ETA: Season 14 – ML ready now, and included on this list only because he has 1.2 innings in the Majors. Incredibly poor temper and difficulties vs. righties will keep him from excelling, although 20 wins/year is possible while playing for the Hangovers.
14. Paulie Fox San Juan – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 81 – ETA: Season 16 – Southpaw SP that will slay lefties. Average against righties and lacks quality 3rd and 4th pitches.
15. Dale Whitehill Chicago – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 81 – ETA: Season 16 – Solid prospect with good control and stamina. May struggle at times vs. righties but overall a solid prospect.
16. Fritz Lynch Montreal – DraftSea11Rd1 – Proj: 80 – ETA: Season 15 – Groundballer with better pitches than splits. Should have better number than ratings indicate, another solid prospect for Montreal.
17. Alberto Martinez Scottsdale – IFASea13 – Proj: 78 – ETA: Season 17 – Very good prospect with the ability to crack the top of the rotation. May struggle at times vs. lefties, but otherwise is solid.
18. Pasqual Henriquez Pittsburgh – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 80 – ETA: Season 16 – Another lefty with great stamina and control. As we have seen with so many lefties, he may struggle against the right handed dominated line-ups that seem to be the norm in 1530.
19. Art Wingo Honolulu – DraftSea12Rd1 – Proj: 80 – ETA: Season 17 – The guy with the funny name and funnier face will look to take out years of childhood angst on AL batters in the not so distant future. Solid prospect for the middle of the rotation and should have a productive career.
20. Vic Bonilla Buffalo – IFASea12 – Proj: 79 – ETA: Season 16 – Dominican with tremendous control and stamina, but below average splits. 95+ heat and three + pitches will keep him in the rotation for many years.
21. Otto Podsednik Honolulu – DraftSea11Rd1 –Proj:80 – ETA: Season 14 – Another lefty with problems vs. righties. Does everything else well and should be a solid middle of the rotation contributor.
22. Vinny Boyd St. Louis – DraftSea10Rd1 – Proj. 79 – ETA: Season 15 – Fireballer with excellent assortment of pitches. Will struggle to stay deep into games and with right handed dominant line-ups.
23. Julio Lopez Burlington – IFASea13 – Proj: 79 – ETA: Season 16 – Dominican lefty that does just about everything well, but nothing spectacular. Should be a bottom of the rotation starter for one of the best rotations in the league.
24. Vic Bournigal Burlington – IFASea9 – Proj: 79 – ETA: Season 14 – Would be much higher on this list if he could control his pitches. AAA Cy Young in Season 13 indicates that he will be ready for the challenge next season.
25. Santo Calderone Charlotte – IFASea13 - Proj: 78 – ETA: Season 16 – Signed for 17 million in Season 13 and will have a hard time living up to the expectations. Tremendous control and solid pitch ratings will keep him in the bigs for a long time, assuming that he can stay healthy.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Los Angeles Hollywoods Top 7 Prospects
1. Louis Melville - SP (AAA)
One of the best pitching prospects in the game. Durable and can pitch deep into games. Good control and really gets the job done against right handers. Success comes from his ++ movement and a lethal sinker. Should be a perfect fit for Dodger Stadium.
2. Rube Swann - SS (Low A)
Strong offensive player that should hit in the middle of the order for a contender for many years. Swith hitter that is equally good against lefties and righties. Good power. ++ against left handers. Should have the defensive ability to handle SS in the major leagues.
3. Victor Merrick - SP (AAA)
22 year old starter that should be ready for the bigs next year. Tough on both righties and lefties. Not overpowering but gets it done with outstanding control and 3 plus pitches.
4. Carson Hardy - SS (RL)
First round pick this year looks like he has a bright future with the Hollywoods. Defensively, will probably be pushed to 3B in the future, but his bat will surely play there. Great contact and power and murders left handed pitching. Durability is the only concern as he will be limited in how many at bats he will have per season.
5. Orval Gonzales - SP (Hi A)
Potential #2/3 starting pitcher who has developed nicely after being drafted in the first round. An innings eating workhorse who should be able to throw 250+ innings per year. Neutralizes lefties with a strong curveball. Pounds the lower part of the strike zone with great movement.
6. Richard Lee - SS (Hi A)
Big Time power prospect at the shortstop position. Projects as having ++ power and a ++ eye. Should hit for plenty of power while supplying a great OBP. Range and arm strength should play well at SS in the big leagues. Strikes out frequently.
7. Omar Flores - CF (AAA)
Centerfield prospect that is knocking on the door of the big leagues. Covers a ton of ground in the outfield and catches everything hit to him. Provides a lot of power that should develop into 25 homer power in the big leagues. Very durable player that should be able to handle the rigors of an entire 162 game season.
 |
| ||||||||||||||
One of the best pitching prospects in the game. Durable and can pitch deep into games. Good control and really gets the job done against right handers. Success comes from his ++ movement and a lethal sinker. Should be a perfect fit for Dodger Stadium.
2. Rube Swann - SS (Low A)
|
| ||||||||||||||
Strong offensive player that should hit in the middle of the order for a contender for many years. Swith hitter that is equally good against lefties and righties. Good power. ++ against left handers. Should have the defensive ability to handle SS in the major leagues.
3. Victor Merrick - SP (AAA)
|
| ||||||||||||||
22 year old starter that should be ready for the bigs next year. Tough on both righties and lefties. Not overpowering but gets it done with outstanding control and 3 plus pitches.
4. Carson Hardy - SS (RL)
|
| ||||||||||||||
First round pick this year looks like he has a bright future with the Hollywoods. Defensively, will probably be pushed to 3B in the future, but his bat will surely play there. Great contact and power and murders left handed pitching. Durability is the only concern as he will be limited in how many at bats he will have per season.
5. Orval Gonzales - SP (Hi A)
|
| ||||||||||||||
Potential #2/3 starting pitcher who has developed nicely after being drafted in the first round. An innings eating workhorse who should be able to throw 250+ innings per year. Neutralizes lefties with a strong curveball. Pounds the lower part of the strike zone with great movement.
6. Richard Lee - SS (Hi A)
|
| ||||||||||||||
Big Time power prospect at the shortstop position. Projects as having ++ power and a ++ eye. Should hit for plenty of power while supplying a great OBP. Range and arm strength should play well at SS in the big leagues. Strikes out frequently.
7. Omar Flores - CF (AAA)
|
| ||||||||||||||
Centerfield prospect that is knocking on the door of the big leagues. Covers a ton of ground in the outfield and catches everything hit to him. Provides a lot of power that should develop into 25 homer power in the big leagues. Very durable player that should be able to handle the rigors of an entire 162 game season.
San Juan Stingrays Top 7 Prospects
1. Derek Burgess - SS (Low A)
Burgess is a HS SS whose tools are are all above avg or plus across the board. A legit SS with an outstanding arm. Burgess should be a consistent performer combining great swings with a solid batting eye. Durable and great makeup, Burgess should become a consistent All-Star SS.
2. Ryan Blake - RF (AA)
Will be an above average LF, or an average RF defensively. Great contact hitter, with a great batting eye, and adequate power. Lightning fast on the basepaths. Very durable. Sometimes his temper gets the best of him, and he has some trouble hitting lefties. Member of the Season 13 Futures Game.
3. Paulie Fox - SP (Hi A)
Deadly accurate pitcher, with great splits vs LH, and good vs RH. This 5-11 flamethrower has a plus plus fastball and plus slider, but is more of a flyball pitcher. Stamina is a bit of a concern, but he should give 6+ solid innings every time out. 8.97 K/9 in Hi A this year. Projects as a #2 or #3 starter.
4. Corey Whitaker - LF (Hi A)
Good range for a LF, but the combination of weak glove and average arm strength, combined with his solid hitting numbers could lead to a change of position to DH. Solid left/right splits, and a good makeup and durability will allow Whitaker to play everyday. Will be an above average to borderline All-Star caliber player in his prime.
5. Nate Stoddard - SS (AAA)
A true SS, he has all the necessary defensive tools to excel at the position. Although he is already in AAA, he is still a year or two away from cracking the big league roster. Durability concerns may limit him to 140-145 games a year. Plus power, but only above average on all other batting categories. A position change or a trade may be due if he is still on the club when super-prospect Burgess makes the ML roster.
6. Fonzie Gagnon - SP (Hi A)
Average to above average splits vs RH and LH. This 6-7 giant is finesse ground ball pitcher, featuring a plus plus change up, plus slider, and a solid curveball. Can get a little wild at times, but will go deep into games if given the opportunity. A workhorse to give you solid innings when you need it. Projected #2 starter.
7. Victor Olmeda SP (Low A)
Another finesse ground ball pitcher, featuring a plus plus fastball and a solid sinker. Outstanding location and great against lefties. Stamina will limit him to 6+ good innings. His makeup may allow him to perform better than the numbers suggest. Projected #3 or #4 starter.
 |
| ||||||||||||||
Burgess is a HS SS whose tools are are all above avg or plus across the board. A legit SS with an outstanding arm. Burgess should be a consistent performer combining great swings with a solid batting eye. Durable and great makeup, Burgess should become a consistent All-Star SS.
2. Ryan Blake - RF (AA)
|
| ||||||||||||||
Will be an above average LF, or an average RF defensively. Great contact hitter, with a great batting eye, and adequate power. Lightning fast on the basepaths. Very durable. Sometimes his temper gets the best of him, and he has some trouble hitting lefties. Member of the Season 13 Futures Game.
3. Paulie Fox - SP (Hi A)
|
| ||||||||||||||
Deadly accurate pitcher, with great splits vs LH, and good vs RH. This 5-11 flamethrower has a plus plus fastball and plus slider, but is more of a flyball pitcher. Stamina is a bit of a concern, but he should give 6+ solid innings every time out. 8.97 K/9 in Hi A this year. Projects as a #2 or #3 starter.
4. Corey Whitaker - LF (Hi A)
|
| ||||||||||||||
Good range for a LF, but the combination of weak glove and average arm strength, combined with his solid hitting numbers could lead to a change of position to DH. Solid left/right splits, and a good makeup and durability will allow Whitaker to play everyday. Will be an above average to borderline All-Star caliber player in his prime.
5. Nate Stoddard - SS (AAA)
|
| ||||||||||||||
A true SS, he has all the necessary defensive tools to excel at the position. Although he is already in AAA, he is still a year or two away from cracking the big league roster. Durability concerns may limit him to 140-145 games a year. Plus power, but only above average on all other batting categories. A position change or a trade may be due if he is still on the club when super-prospect Burgess makes the ML roster.
6. Fonzie Gagnon - SP (Hi A)
|
| ||||||||||||||
Average to above average splits vs RH and LH. This 6-7 giant is finesse ground ball pitcher, featuring a plus plus change up, plus slider, and a solid curveball. Can get a little wild at times, but will go deep into games if given the opportunity. A workhorse to give you solid innings when you need it. Projected #2 starter.
7. Victor Olmeda SP (Low A)
|
| ||||||||||||||
Another finesse ground ball pitcher, featuring a plus plus fastball and a solid sinker. Outstanding location and great against lefties. Stamina will limit him to 6+ good innings. His makeup may allow him to perform better than the numbers suggest. Projected #3 or #4 starter.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Rule V Player Review - John Yoshii
September 5, 2009
An overlooked aspect of building a team is the use of the Rule V draft to add pieces to the puzzle of building a 25 man roster. The New York Yellow Cabs selected John Yoshii second in the Rule V draft in season 13 and while the Yellow Cabs could not find a spot on the 25 man roster, the Pittsburgh Partymen tool a flyer on him; claiming him off waivers.
This appears to have been a solid move by the Partymen ownership group as he is 8-3 with a 3.33 ERA. While he does not project to be a star, he has been solid at every level and hopes to continue to put up good numbers out of the Partymen bullpen.
It is small moves like the claim of Yoshii that help shape a roster and the Partymen hope that Yoshii's success continues as they push toward a playoff birth in the National League.
 |
| ||||||||||||||
An overlooked aspect of building a team is the use of the Rule V draft to add pieces to the puzzle of building a 25 man roster. The New York Yellow Cabs selected John Yoshii second in the Rule V draft in season 13 and while the Yellow Cabs could not find a spot on the 25 man roster, the Pittsburgh Partymen tool a flyer on him; claiming him off waivers.
This appears to have been a solid move by the Partymen ownership group as he is 8-3 with a 3.33 ERA. While he does not project to be a star, he has been solid at every level and hopes to continue to put up good numbers out of the Partymen bullpen.
It is small moves like the claim of Yoshii that help shape a roster and the Partymen hope that Yoshii's success continues as they push toward a playoff birth in the National League.
Houston Inks Mendez
September 5, 2009
The Houston Hangovers have signed Geraldo Mendez to a minor league deal with a bonus that will pay him 10.9 million dollars.
Mendez projects as a front of the rotation starter and will likely report to the Rookie League or Low A Hangovers later today. When speaking to Mendez via telephone, he indicated that the market for his services was limited due to other owners "blowing" their prospect budget.
Mendez appears to be a steal for the Hangovers and will certainly cause problems in the National League South for many years to come.
 |
| ||||||||||||||
The Houston Hangovers have signed Geraldo Mendez to a minor league deal with a bonus that will pay him 10.9 million dollars.
Mendez projects as a front of the rotation starter and will likely report to the Rookie League or Low A Hangovers later today. When speaking to Mendez via telephone, he indicated that the market for his services was limited due to other owners "blowing" their prospect budget.
Mendez appears to be a steal for the Hangovers and will certainly cause problems in the National League South for many years to come.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
