Organizational Prospect Depth Chart
by Zonis on Sep 11, 2009 7:50 PM EDT
Email
PrintA bit over a year ago I made a Prospect Depth Chart thread, and it proved to be a pretty good success. Now that a year has past, I think its a good time to go back and look at where we were right and where we were wrong, and to start the depth chart anew. If you do not know where to start, check out last year's thread to get a picture of how the lists can be laid out.
A good way to see an Organization's real strength is to look at what it has and what it does not. An organization may look strong with top prospects, for example, but if the are all at one position, it definitely hurts quite a bit; a system full for good 1B prospects is kind of useless, after all, when all you really need is one or two of them in the Majors.
So give your Organization's Prospect Depth Chart.
- Limit your players to True and Top Prospects, leaving out what is commonly regarded as organizational filler or injury depth.
- You may use players that are in the majors as long as they are are in Pre-Arbitration.
- List the player's Position, Age, Current Playing Level (Rk, SS, A, A+, AA, AAA, MLB).
- If possible, provide the players Batting or Pitching line for the levels they've played in this year, along with their # of AB's or IP.
- Feel free to assign reasonable grades to the prospects (using John Sickle's Prospect Grades might be a good idea), as well as any comments or information on the prospect, such as upside or probability of sticking at that position. But as with any grading system, be objective.
Positions
- Catcher
- First Base/Designated Hitter
- Second Base
- Third Base
- Short Stop
- Corner Outfield
- Center field
- Starting Pitcher
- Relief Pitcher/Closer
76 comments
|
4 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Pirates...
Catcher-
Jason Jaramillo 26 MLB
Tony Sanchez High A
First Base-
Jeff Clement 26 AAA
Garret Jones 28 MLB
Second Base-
Chase D’arnaud 22 High A
Shelby Ford 24 AA
Brock Holt 21 Low A
Josh Harrison 22 High A
Third Base-
Pedro Alvarez 22 AA
Andy LaRoche 26 MLB
Neil Walker 23 MLB
Short Stop-
Jordy Mercer 22 High A
Jarek Cunningham 20 injured
Argenis Diaz 22 AAA
Corner Outfield-
Jose Tabata 20 AAA
Brandon Moss 26 MLB
Lastings Milledge 24 MLB
Wesley Freeman 18 GCL
Center field -
Andrew McCutchen 22 MLB
Gorkys Hernandez 22 AA
Starling Marte 20 High A
Robbie Grossman 19 Low A
Evan Chambers 20 Low A
Starting Pitcher-
Brad Lincoln 24 AAA
Tim Alderson 20 AA
Bryan Morris 22 High A
Jeff Locke 22 High A
Rudy Owens 21 High A
Justin Wilson 22 High A
Brett Lorin 21 Low A
Quinton Miller 19 Low A
Brooks Pounders 18 GCL
Zach Von Rosenberg 18 GCL
Victor Black 21 Low A
Charlie Morton 25 MLB
Ross Ohlendorf 27 MLB
Relief Pitcher/Closer
Jose Ascanio 24 MLB
Danny Moskos 23 MLB
Diego Moreno 21 Low A
Jesse Chavez 26 MLB
any chance for Tom Boleska to crack that reliever list next season
he has had injury problems that have kept in in high A this year but should start next season in AA and has pretty impressive stuff and numbers.
Jennings, Hellickson, Davis, Brignac, Beckham, Moore > Your top 3
picked up a 4 inning save for Great Brittain today
1 r 2 h 2 bb 8 k
Jennings, Hellickson, Davis, Brignac, Beckham, Moore > Your top 3
Don't really like...
Boleska too much. Though I should have added Michael Dubee. He has done very well this year.
Mets
Catcher:
Josh Thole Maj/AA
Fransisco Pena High A
First Base:
Ike Davis AA
Stefan Welch High A
Second Base/Shortstop:
Ruben Tejada AA
Reese Havens High A
Wilmer Flores Low A
Third Base:
Shawn Bowman
Zack Lutz
Jefry Marte
Outfield:
Kirk Niewenhuis High A
Pitchers:
Jenry Mejia AA
Brad Holt AA
Jon Neise AAA
I am beginning to lose patience
With my personal relations.
They are not deep
And they are not cheap.
W.H. Auden
by jimduquettesucked on Sep 11, 2009 8:55 PM EDT reply actions
Martinez
Graduated
I am beginning to lose patience
With my personal relations.
They are not deep
And they are not cheap.
W.H. Auden
by jimduquettesucked on Sep 12, 2009 11:22 AM EDT up reply actions
So did Niese and Thole in your list. And if you read the original post...
it says MLB players can be included if they’re pre-arb. Which is the case for Thole, Murphy, Evans, Martinez, Niese, Parnell, and Stoner.
"I dunno. I never smoked any Astroturf"
-Tug McGraw
Here, I'll do a Mets one that's a little more in depth.
Catcher
Josh Thole 22 MLB
Francisco Peña 19 A+
Nelfi Zapata 18 R
First Base
Ike Davis 22 AA
Daniel Murphy 24 MLB
Lucas Duda 23 AA
Second Base
Alonzo Harris 20 A
Jordany Valdespin 21 A
Shortstop
Wilmer Flores 18 A
Reese Havens 22 A+
Ruben Tejada 20 AA
Robbie Shields 21 A-
Third Base
Jefry Marte 18 A
Zach Lutz 23 AA
Aderlin Rodriguez 17 R
Richard Lucas 20 A-
Corner Outfield
Cesar Puello 18 R
Nick Evans 23 MLB
Carlos Guzman 23 AA
Centerfield
Fernando Martinez 20 MLB
Kirk Niuwenhuis 22 AA
Darrell Ceciliani 19 R
Javier Rodriguez 19 R
Starting Pitcher
Jenrry Mejia 19 AA
Jon Niese 22 MLB
Brad Holt 22 AA
Jeurys Familia 19 A
Kyle Allen 19 A
Robert Carson 20 A
Steven Matz 18 N/A
Juan Urbina 16 N/A
Eric Niesen 24 AA
Eric Beaulac 22 A
Dillon Gee 23 AAA
Scott Moviel 21 A+
Tobi Stoner 24 MLB
RP
Bobby Parnell 25 MLB
Brant Rustich 24 A+
Eddie Kunz 23 AAA
"I dunno. I never smoked any Astroturf"
-Tug McGraw
Mets depth chart in review
Not bad. I did one for last year here. So in the spirit of looking back and reviewing:
1B: I underrated Ike Davis, and over rated Evans, who now looks more like organizational filler/injury depth.
2B: No big change, though Pellot had passed Veloz this year before Veloz was traded.
3B: No real change, maybe could have left off Bowman
SS: Lagares was moved off SS and still hasn’t hit much, not much prospect status now. Flores is still good, but doesn’t really project as a SS.
OF: I missed Nieuwenhuis, who by now looks like a legit prospect. Javier Rodriguez is looking more doubtful.
SP: The last 4 I included could have been dropped, and I also over rated Antonini. I also missed Niesen, Carson and Familia, but at least noted all three in a follow up post of guys who might have been deserving. Also missed Coultas, who was a RP at the time.
RP: I probably should have mentioned Carr, and Kunz is looking less liek a prospect.
current status:
CA Thole, Santos, Pena
1B Davis, Duda, Welch
2B Havens, (Pellot), (Harris), (Valdespin)
3B Murphy, Flores, Lutz, Marte, A. Rodriguez, Lucas
SS Tejada, (Shields), (Bouchard)
CF: Martinez, Nieuwenhuis
LF/RF: Puello, Guzman, Ratliff
SP: Mejia, Niese, Holt, Familia, Parnell, Niesen, Allen, Matz, Gee, Carson, Urbina, Kaplan, Moviel, (Stoner)
RP: Rustich, Carr, Beaulac, (Kunz), (Bostick)
The one odd inclusion there might be Santos, but he does meet the not yet arbitration eligible criteria.
As far as depth, the Mets have at least one decent prospect at every position right now, but only really a lot of depth at 3B, a position they won’t be needing for awhile. Some of the guys I listed at 3B could likely play elsewhere though, and Flores hasn’t even really played 3B (but it seemed the fairest place to put him). As for weaknesses, the guys I put in parenthesis are all pretty fringy right now, really not meeting the “top prospects” criteria.
So the one biggest weakness seems to be the middle infield behind Havens and Tejada. Harris might have some potential, but is a long way away. Valdespin had numbers at low levels, but some unfavorable reports as far as both ceiling and makeup. Pellot is close, but not showing enough pop to look like a future starter.
The outfield could also use more depth, as I’ve only got 5 there for what is really 3 positions. And the last two still have some good bust potential.
I think Evans qualifies as corner OF depth then, with that lack of players.
And Ceciliani can play CF too.
"I dunno. I never smoked any Astroturf"
-Tug McGraw
hmm this might take a while
top future player at each position bolded.
Catcher —
Brayan Pena, 27, MLB – hopefully starts in KC next year.
Manuel Pina, 22, AA – defense first, future backup or fringe starter.
Wil Myers, 18, SS – needs to work on defense, but has enormous ceiling.
Salvador Perez, 19, SS – needs to work on the bat, decent ceiling.
Fernando Cruz, 19, R – new to catching, has upside with the bat.
First Base
Billy Butler, 23, MLB – having a terrific second half, OPS north of .850 for the season now.
Kila Ka’aihue, 24, AAA – platoon guy, but on the good side of it.
Eric Hosmer, 19, HiA – disappointing first season, has big ceiling though.
Jason Taylor, 21, LoA – he’s a tool, that might hold him back. has power and patience.
Geoff Baldwin, 18, R – big power potential but huge holes in swing. his swing kinda sucks actually.
Second Base
Alberto Callaspo, 26, MLB – good hitter but weak defensively.
Johnny Giavotella, 22, HiA – very good hitter, 2nd half more indicative of who he is.
Third Base
Alex Gordon, 25, MLB – i knowz he is better than this. i just knowz it.
Mike Moustakas, 20, HiA – needs to improve discipline at plate, still huge power.
Malcom Culver, 19, SS – has patience and some raw power.
Shortstop
Jeff Bianchi, 22, AA – great defense and decent bat. needs at least 1 more full minor league season.
Yowill Espinal, 18, R – toolsy, young Dominican who vastly improved discipline this year. big potential here.
Corner Outfield
Jordan Parraz, 24, AAA – broke out this year after being buried with the Astros for a while.
Tim Smith, 23, AA – decent OBP guy with some raw power.
Luis Del Rosario, 19, R – tools guy with power and some patience.
Center Field
Mitch Maier, 26, MLB – fringe starter, good 4th OF. weird reverse split.
David Lough, 23, AA – breakout year. turned tools into better skillz.
Derrick Robinson, 21, HiA – losing luster but still has tools. make or break next year.
Starting Pitcher
Luke Hochevar, 25, MLB – decent FIP but struggling ERA.
Blake Wood, 23, AA – weirdly struggled this year. need an update on his stuff.
Mike Montgomery, 20, HiA – best prospect in the system right now.
Danny Duffy, 20, HiA – another terrific prospect.
Tim Melville, 19, LoA – terrific stuff, iffy command so far. good upside.
John Lamb, 19, SS – hard to find a pitcher with better command and idea how to pitch at such a young age.
Chris Dwyer, 21, SS – filthy stuff but needs to clean up command a bit.
Tyler Sample, 19, R – greatly improved command in ’09. excellent fastball/curve.
Aaron Crow, 22, ?? – will he sign…he better.
Relief Pitcher
Joakim Soria, 25, MLB – well, he’s still pre-arb…
Carlos Rosa, 24, MLB – just got promoted, great fastball.
Chris “Disco” Hayes, 26, AAA – gotta love him even if he’s a middle reliever at best…
Juan Abreu, 24, AA – great stuff but bad control.
Louis Coleman, 23, HiA – CWS star moved to the pen.
Brandon Sisk, 23, HiA – independent league star now K’ing well over batting per inning.
Dusty Odenbach, 21, LoA – gets K’s and ground balls.
baseball rules.
Rangers
•Catcher
Max Ramirez (AAA)
Tomas Telis (AZL/-A)
Leonel “Macumba” De Los Santos (A)
Vin Difazio (-A/A)
•First Base/Designated Hitter
Justin Smoak (AA/AAA)
Mitch Moreland (A+/AA)
Chad Tracy (AA)
Clarck Murphy (A/-A)
•Second Base
Marcus Lemon (AA)
Matt Lawson? (A+)
•Third Base
Tommy Mendonca (-A/A+)
Johnny Whittleman (AA)
•Short Stop
Jurickson Profar (None yet)
Luis Sardinas (none yet)
Leury Garcia (A)
Edwin Garcia (A+/AZL/-A)
•Corner Outfield
Miguel Velazquez (AZL/-A)
?
•Center field
Engal Beltre (A+/AA)
Starting Pitcher
Neftali Feliz (AAA/MLB)
Martin Perez (A/AA)
Wilmer Font (A)
Robbie Ross (-A)
Kasey Kiker (AA)
Michael Main (A+)
Blake Beavan (A+/AA)
Joe Wieland (A)
Danny Gutierrez (A+/AA)
Wilfredo Boscon (A)
Guillermo Moscoso (AA/AAA/MLB)
Omar Poveda (AA)
And too many more
•Relief Pitcher/Closer
Pedro Strop (AA/AAA/MLB)
Warner Madrigal (AAA/MLB)
Zach Phillips (A+/AA)
Evan Reed (A+)
Corey Young (A+/AA)
Johnny Gunter (-A)
The 2009 Texas Rangers offense: sigh...
I'd add
Paisano to the CF list. He’s got a good chance of being at least a 5th OF with that speed and defense.
G G G E-flat_______ F F F D__________....
Yep
and maybe Golson and Gentry too.
The 2009 Texas Rangers offense: sigh...
by Kinslerhomer on Sep 12, 2009 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions
No....
Teagarden, Andrus, Davis, Borbon, Holland, and a few others. He said you can include pre arbitration MLB players.
Yeah
I just did prospects. Add Hunter, Harrison, O’Day, Boggs (forgot him), and Murphy to the pre-arb guys.
The 2009 Texas Rangers offense: sigh...
by Kinslerhomer on Sep 12, 2009 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions
Twins
I give a grade similar to Sickles’ first, player, level ….like DoubleStix I’ll bold top future option.
Catcher
B Wilson Ramos AA
C+ Jose Morales, MLB , appears to be an excellent average hitter, makes great contact gets on base, but no defense.
C+ Danny “Bam Bam” Rams, A
C Alexander Soto, A+
1st Base
B- Chris Parmelee A+, I think he sticks here, could be right-fielder
C Jonathan Waltenbury A, had a pretty horrible year (Morneau clone type of build, backround)
2nd Base
C+ Steven Singleton, A+/AA, I think he is the future Twins 2nd basemen, ..ETA 2011……
C+ Steven Tolleson, AAA , surprised he wasn’t a Sept. call-up…struggling mightily of late.
Shortstop
C ? Trevor Plouffe, AAA, Will see big league time in 2010…. still very young.
C Brian Dozier, RK, could put a big charge in Twins’ system here(future), possess little power
3rd Base
B- Danny Valencia AAA, another player I was surprised to see no Sept.-Call-up, question the D big-time, but Bat is very much legit.
C Anderson Hidalgo RK, doubt he stays here at 3rd but is the second best prospect at this position IMO.
C Ramon Santana, AA
C Deibinson Romero, A+ , one of the biggest disappointments this year for Twins ’spects.
Corner-Outfielders
B- Angel Morales A , got a look in AA right at end of season, I for one was rather shocked.
C+ Joe Benson A+ , Still looks really good to me.
C+ Rene Tosoni AA, from what I hear he will be in AAA next year, another Canadian, should be above Benson, Highest floor of these COF, Lowest ceiling.
C+? Evan Bigley A+ , was rushed to A+ because of injury, played well to stay there all year.
C Oswaldo Arcia RK, I like him quite a bit, I Think
C David Winfree AAA, He is for real, I think he could still be a future #3 OF…..
C Brian Dinkelman AA, if he goes back to 2nd Base – could have a future
Center Fielders
B+ Aaron Hicks, A , had a rather marginaly productive year 10 SB / 8 times caught 4 Homers to only 8 doubles , color be rather unimpressed. Think he holds this grade.
B+? Ben Revere A+, will be in AA next year and continues to put up the #’s he supposed to.(could be B now, or so)
DH’s
B- Josmil Pinto, RK – made head-way last year, but was a monster this year IMO.
C Erik Lis AA, keeps putting up #’s I think he has trade value…
Starting Pitching
B David Bromberg, A+ , aggressive Grade, I actually think he may flop at AA next year.
B- Kyle Gibson, ? , signed pretty late didn’t pitch at all this year.
C++ Deolis Guerra, AA, Hmmmm…… who knows ? (had to put the plus plus part in there)
C+ Jeff Manship, MLB, Does look like future inning eater…. good, solid back-end starter.
C+ Anthony Swarzak, MLB, I am starting to question him, can’t locate well-enough.
C+ Tyler Robertson, A+ , O-V-E-R-A-T-E-D …..period.
C+ Michael McCardell, AA, could find AAA games next year I like him as future #4.
C+ Brett Hermson, RK, although he didn’t K a whole lot this year, phenomenal #‘s.
C+ Brian Duensing, MLB, actually when gives the chance to START games this year for Twins did an excellent superb job.
Adrian Salcedo, Blane Weller, Bradley Tippett, Matt Bashore are some others to note.
Relief Pitching (maybe are following Detroit’s lead for producing Late-inning guys of late.)
B- Anthony Slama, AAA
C+ Alex Burnett, AA, Looks like a really good future relief-arm
C+ Robert Delaney, AAA John gave him a B- last year, that may have been aggressive.
C+ Andrey Lobanov, RK , Russian pitcher, south-paw, big K #’s.
C Loek Van Mil, AA, 7 feet tall
C Spencer Steedley, AA , another south-paw… I like his chances.
Deolis Guerra = Daniel Cabrera ?
I tend to think so
by SteveHoffmanSlowey on Sep 11, 2009 11:39 PM EDT reply actions
forgot
Billy Bullock, RP, A+ ,,,,U. of Florida
could easily be a C+ type of grade, but was just drafted this summer.
Deolis Guerra = Daniel Cabrera ?
I tend to think so
by SteveHoffmanSlowey on Sep 11, 2009 11:43 PM EDT up reply actions
also
should point out
RHP-Carlos Gutierrez
LHP-Joe Testa
Max Kepler the 16 German OFer
Deolis Guerra = Daniel Cabrera ?
I tend to think so
by SteveHoffmanSlowey on Sep 11, 2009 11:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Mariners quick overview... Age/stats not lncluded
C-Adam Moore AAA blackhole… Steven Baron
1B/DH-Carp MLB Raben-Rehab Poythress-AA
2B- Carlos Triunfel AA Kyle Seager A+ Matt Tuiasasopo-AAA
SS-Carlos Triunfel AA Nick Franklin A-
3B- Matt Tuiasasopo Carlos Triunfel
COF- Michael Saunders MLB/AAA Dustin Ackley
CF-Greg Halman AA Dustin Ackley
SP- Dan Cortes AA Nick Hill AAA JC Rameriez A+ Michale Pineda A+ Mauricio Roble A+
RP-Josh Fields AA Phillipe Aumount AA Nick Hill AAA
List is incomplete depth wise but as for best out of that position wise I got it nailed I think…
You got slurved!
Giants starting lineup.....
Someone else can fill the rest in
C – Buster Posey MLB
1B – Angel Villalona A+
2B – Emmanuel Burriss – AAA
SS – Brandon Crawford – AA
3B – Pablo Sandoval – MLB
OF – Thomas Neal – A+
OF – John Bowker – MLB
OF – Roger Kienchnick – A+
SP – Madison Bumgarner MLB
RP – Dan Runzler, Waldis Joaquin MLB
Giants quick overview...corrections always welcome
C –
Buster Posey MLB,
Tommy Joseph, <— 1B?
Hector Sanchez R,
Jackson Williams AA
1B –
Angel Villalona A+,
Brett Pill AA,
Jesus Guzman AAA
2B –
Brock Bond AA,
Nick Noonan A+,
Emmanuel Burriss AAA
SS –
Brandon Crawford AA,
Ehire Adrianza A-
3B –
Conor Gillaspie A+,
Ryan Rohlinger AAA,
Christopher Dominguez SS <— 1B?
COF-
Thomas Neal A+,
Roger Kieschnick A+,
Rafael Rodriguez R
CF-
Francisco Peguero A+,
Darren Ford A+,
Mike McBryde AAA,
Evan Crawford SS
SP –
Madison Bumgarner AA/MLB,
Zack Wheeler,
Henry Sosa AA,
Craig Clark AA,
Jorge Bucardo SS,
Clayton Tanner A+
RP –
Dan Runzler MLB,
Waldis Joaquin AAA/MLB,
Jason Stoffel SS,
Joe Paterson AA,
Daniel Turpen A+
by TimLaser and MattyC on Sep 12, 2009 3:13 AM EDT reply actions
Oops, I forgot Kevin Frandsen and John Bowker, but so did Bochy and Sabes.
by TimLaser and MattyC on Sep 12, 2009 3:22 AM EDT up reply actions
Astros
Catcher:
Jason Castro AA – Catcher of the near future. He’s going to hit a high OBP, provide some power and play above-average defense.
J.R. Towles AAA/MLB – He will get one last chance next spring, but Castro is almost ready to take over.
K.Clemens A+ – Not really a catcher as much as a LF, see Montero, Jesus, but he did lead the minors in RBIs, even if he was playing for Lancaster.
First Basemen:
Mark Saccomanno AAA – He is old, but he seems like a Mike Lamb clone to me.
James Van Ostrand AA – I was drawing a big blank here, and had to write someone’s name down.
Second Base:
Edwin Maysonet AAA/MLB – He’s up. Good defense, iffy offense.
Enrique Hernandez R (GCL) – 2009 sixth rounder with a pretty good hit tool. Very raw.
Third Base:
Chris Johnson AAA/MLB – He is going to get a long look. Has some power, and has a hit for a good average. Has little plate discipline, drawing 22 walks all season (17 of those coming in August and July).
Ebert Rosario A+/A- – Haven’t seen him in person. Seems like an athletic guy with power, but raw and lacking plate discipline.
Jonathan Meyer R – 111th pick in 2009. Disappointing debut, but has some tools (hit, power, arm).
Shortstop:
Tommy Manzella AAA/MLB – Likely SS in 2010. He’s a Adam Everett like defensive guy. However, he also lacks great offensive upside.
Wladamir Sutil AA – A lot like Manzella. More likely to draw walks and steal bases though. Old for his league.
Jiovanni Mier R – 2009 1st rounder. Great debut, showing off some unexpected power. a great glove and good approach. Will take some time though.
Corner Outfield:
Andrew Locke AA – One of the Texas League’s top performers in 2009.
Jon Gaston A+ – Led the minors in HRs, playing in Lancaster.
Colin DeLome AA – Has great tools, power and speed combination. Needs refinement. Lacks plate discipline.
Center Field (for now):
Brian Bogusevic AAA – lost some plate discipline and power in his first full season as an OF.
T.J. Steele A+ – Oft injured this year. But, he is great when he plays. Lots of tools, needs refinement.
J.Shuck A+ – No power. But, has speed and does a great job getting on base.
J.Austin A- – 2008 2nd rounder. Took a step forward this year at Lexington, although injury slowed him at the end of the year. Showed some power, 5-tool potential.
Starting Pitchers:
Bud Norris MLB
Yorman Bazardo MLB
Felipe Paulino MLB
Jordan Lyles A-
Ross Seaton A-
Brad Dydalewicz A-
Tanner Bushue R (GCL)
Relief Pitchers:
Chia Jen-Lo AA
Henry Villar A-
i think you missed the point.
hard to see mier as the 3rd best astros SS prospect when most people think he is a top 3 overall astros prospect.
by auclairkeithbc on Sep 13, 2009 12:06 PM EDT up reply actions
in order of reaching the big leagues.
The point was to create an organizational depth chart. Tommy Manzella is going to get the first crack at SS next year, Sutil may compete at some point next year, while Mier won’t be ready for a few years.
by byronlhsdrmr on Sep 15, 2009 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions
Yankees
Don’t want to break the rules, but I won’t use the pre-arb players. And I don’t have enough time to explain my grading system or convert it to the standard one.
C- Jesus Montero (AA), Austin Romine (A+), JR Murphy®, Gary Sanchez®, Kyle Higashioka (A-), up to 10 others not quite as good
1B-Rey Nunez (DSL), Juan Miranda (AAA), Luke Murton (A-), Jimmy Paredes (A-)-no depth here
DH-Jorge Vazquez (AA)
2B-David Adams (A+), Corban Joseph (A), Reegie Corona (AAA), Kevin Russo (AAA), Justin Snyder (AA)
3B-Brandon Laird (A+), Brad Suttle (A+), Elio de la Rosa (DSL), Robert Lyerly (A-), Marcos Vechionacci? (AA)
SS-Jose Pirela (A), Eduardo Nunez (AAA-most of season AA), Jose Mojica®, Gian Arias (DSL), Anderson Felix (DSL)
corner OF-Dan Brewer (A+), Neil Medchill (A-), Deangelo Mack (A-), Melky Mesa (A), Yeicok Calderon (DSL), Kelvin De Leon®, Colin Curtis (AAA), Chris Smith? (R-failed prospect maybe), Justin Milo (A- [he has been stealing time from Medchill now. Plays pretty well. vastly underrated])
CF-Austin Jackson (AAA), Austin Krum (AA), Damon Sublett (A+), Abe Almonte (A), Salde Heathcott®, Ed Sosa®, Ericson Leonora (DSL), possibly Zolio Almonte? (A-)
SP-George Kontos (AAA), Ivan Nova (AAA), Zach McAllister (AAA), Wilkin de la Rosa (AA), Jeremy Bleich (AA), Lance Pendleton (AA), David Phelps (A+), DJ Mitchell (A+), Jairo Heredia (A+), Dellin Betances (A+), Andrew Brackman (A), Manny Banuelos (A), Brandon Braboy (A), Alan Horne (AA), Sean Black (A-), Adam Warren (A-), Matt Richardson (A-), Jose A. Ramirez (A-), Caleb Cotham (A-), Arodys Vizcaino (A-), Nik Turley®, Michael O’Brien®, Brett Gerritse®, Bryan Mitchell®, Chris Garcia (AA), Juan Marcano (DSL), Juan Heredia (DSL), Brett Marshall (A)
RP-Mike Dunn (MLB), Kevin Whelan (AAA), Zack Kroenke (AAA), Humberto Sanchez (AAA), Jose Valdez/Amaury Sanit (AAA-you might consider them filler. you might not), Kanekoa Texeira (AA), Josh Schmidt (AA), Pat Venditte (A+), Jon Hovis (A+), Brad Rulon (A+), Jon Ortiz (A+), Adam Olbrychowski (A+), Graham Stonebruner (A-), Mariel Checo®, Evan DeLuca®, Gavin Brooks (A-), Tim Norton (A+)
Omissions
Juud Golson-R-CF
Sorry I forgot ages.
Grades
Jesus Montero (A), Austin Jackson (B+), Slade Heathcott (B+), Austin Romine (B), Zachary McAllister (B), Andrew Brackman(B), Manuel Banuelos (B), Jeremy Bleich (B), Arodys Vizcaino (B), Ivan Nova (B), Wilkin de la Rosa (B), Jairo Heredia (B), George Kontos (B-), JR Murphy (B-), Dellin Bentaces (B-), Eduardo Nunez (C+), Eduardo Sosa (C+), Kelvin de Leon (C+), David Phelps (C+), DJ Mitchell (C+), Gary Sanchez (C+), Jorge Vazquez (C+), Brad Suttle (C+)
That is top 23. These are HM choices. Not sure exactly who should be there. HM:DeAngelo Mack, David Adams, Brett Marshall,
Abraham Almonte, Neil Medchill, Sean Black, Melky Mesa, Daniel Brewer, Juan Miranda,
Galvin Brooks, Bryan Mitchell, Mariel Checo, Lance Pendleton, Anthony Claggett, Jose Pirela, Reegie Corona, Matthew Richardson, Michael Dunn, Brad Rulon, Christian Garcia, Kevin Russo, Brett Gerritse, Humberto Sanchez, Kyle Higashioka, Josh Schmidt, Alan Horne, Graham Stoneburner, Jonathon Hovis, Kanekoa Texeira, Corban Joseph, Nik Turley, Zack Kroenke, Patrick Venditte, Brandon Laird, Adam Warren, Garrison Lassiter, Kevin Whelan
Huge Omission
Hector Noesi, 22 yr. old in A+
41.1 innings, 34 hits, 4 walks, 40 strikeouts
overall: 117 innings, 96 hits, 15 walks, 118 strikeouts, 2.92 era
I’ll take him over Brackman and a slew of other B prospects any day.
I heard Tim Lincecum will win 1 Cy Young & 11 Tim Lincecums. Question is, how many Cole Hamels will he win?
by the pinstripes on Sep 13, 2009 8:54 PM EDT up reply actions
he also looks a lot like ubaldo!
for whatever that’s worth.
I heard Tim Lincecum will win 1 Cy Young & 11 Tim Lincecums. Question is, how many Cole Hamels will he win?
by the pinstripes on Sep 13, 2009 8:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Noesi?
He really isn’t even close to most of these guys. I rank him as the 61st best prospect. Way too many guys better than him. Definitely not better than Arodys, Nova, WDR, and Heredia let alone Z-Mac and Romine even though Romine isn’t a pitcher
Also yea Brackman is kind of high but he is turning it around right before the season ended and was awesome. He is probably more like a C+ but barely. Betances is too.
Yeah
I rag on Brackman more than anyone, but he’s not going below a C+ for me. Ceiling is still considerable, even though the chances of him getting there are plummeting. I still imagine a very high ceiling as a reliever, too, so a C+ sleeper seems right, and I wouldnt be shocked to see him move up halfway through next year. A Daniel Bard style turn around is certainly not out of the question. Long way to go, though, obviously…
My objections to Brackman were primarily BA having him as a top 100 guy two years ago, then moving him up the top 100 list last year. Just friggin absurd. This resulted in all sorts of nutty statements about him here and other places, as well as prospect rankings that made my eyes bleed.
Noesi's performance last night
was atrocious when the T-Yankees needed him big. 2 runs in relief and a walk was given out. Just sayin’
off topic
I vote SB turn down Axe adverts. The one on the right just now with the pre-teen girl looking dude is making me sick.
I don't get them with Chrome
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Sep 21, 2009 1:24 AM EDT up reply actions
yeah
I switch back and forth between firefox and safari. Happened to be on safari when that one cropped up. Body wash? Generational thing I guess.
A's
C: suzuki/powell/donaldson, recent picks paramore/ortiz/stassi/leyland
1b: Barton/Carter/Doolittle
2b: Cardenas/Weeks
SS: Pennington/Horton/Coleman/Green
3b: Wallace/Christian, recent picks Parker/Spina
OF: Sweeney/Buck/Cunningham/Patterson, Brown/Desme/Spencer/Sulentic/Peterson/Dixon
Pitchers: Anderson/Cahill/Mazzaro/Gio/Braden/Outman
Simmons/Ross/Capra/Mortensen/Leon/Banwart/Godfrey
Relievers: Bailey/Devine/Ziegler/Demel/Hrod/Carignan/Blevins/Gray
Rays
C:
John Jaso, AAA – starting to look like a AAAA player
Jake Jefferies, A – Needs to show power, but other components are good.
Mark Thomas, A- – Sleeper candidate for 2010.
Luke Bailey, GCL – Rays catcher of the future
1B:
Mike Sheridan, A – Power has gone way up, but contact skills have disappeared.
Eli Sonoqui, A-
Jeff Malm, GCL – has very nice potential
2B
Ben Zobrist, MLB
Sean Rodiguez, MLB
Cody Cipriano, AA – Could be a Dan Uggla-type.
Tyler Bortnick, A-
3B
Evan Longoria -
Julio Cedeno, Ad. Rk. – Could be a breakout candidate next year.
Juan Cuello, GCL
SS
Reid Brignac, AAA
Tim Beckham, A
COF
Matt Joyce, AAA
KD Kang, A
Reid Fronk, A+
CF
B.J. Upton, MLB
Desmond Jennings, AAA
Fernando Perez, MLB
Dustin Biell, A-
Ty Morrison, Ad. Rk.
Cody Rogers, Ad. Rk.
Brian Bryles, Ad. Rk
SP
David Price, MLB
Jeff Niemann, MLB
Wade Davis, MLB
Jeremy Hellickson, AAA
Alex Torres, AA
Anuery Rodriguez, AA
Darin Downs, AA
Alex Cobb, A+
David Newmann, A+
Jake McGee, A+
Matt Moore, A
Nick Barnese, A
Chris Anjudar, A
Frank De Los Santos, A
Shane Dyer, A
Joe Cruz, A
Kyle Lobstein, A-
Jason McEachern, A-
Alex Colome, A-
Devin Fuller, A-
Julius Dettrich, Ad. Rk.
Wilking Rodriguez, Ad. Rk.
Omar Bencomo, Ad. Rk.
Trevor Shull, Ad. Rk.
Shawn Smith, GCL
Jacob Partridge, GCL
Matt Swilley, GCL
Brad Furdal, GCL
Scott Proctor, GCL
RP
J.P. Howell, MLB
Heath Rollins, AAA
Scott Gorgen, AA
Marquis Fleming, A+
Josh Satow, A+
Austin HInkle, A+
Scott Shuman, Ad. Rk.
Everbody's Nobody
I don't remember the names
But the Rays signed a couple of bonus babies at SS and 3B, respectively, that should probably be on the depth chart.
I’d throw Kirby Yates (Ad. Rk) up there on the relief prospect list as well.
Bad Left Hook - The SB Nation boxing blog
"Baseball is played on the field, not on a calculator."
Also missing the two guys the Rays acquired for Kazmir
Other than SeanJohn
Bad Left Hook - The SB Nation boxing blog
"Baseball is played on the field, not on a calculator."
Jeremy Beckham
but it was more of a joke, I doubt he is more than a career minor leaguer
Jennings, Hellickson, Davis, Brignac, Beckham, Moore > Your top 3
Who has a better 3 SPs
Rays
David Price, MLB
Jeff Niemann, MLB
Wade Davis, MLB
Oakland
Anderson
Cahill
Mazzaro
Rangers
Holland
Feliz
Hunter
other
Elvis Andrus - 2009 AL Rookie of the Year
Mitch Moreland -Tom Grieve Rangers Minor League Player of the Year
Martin Perez - Nolan Ryan Rangers Minor League Pitcher of the Year
if u are reffering to ML ready arms I think the Rays have the top 1-4
not sure any of those teams listed or anyone else has a guy like Hellickson 4th
Jennings, Hellickson, Davis, Brignac, Beckham, Moore > Your top 3
Oakland Athletics
Catcher:
Kurt Suzuki, MLB
Josh Donaldson, AA
Max Stassi, SS
Pete Paramore, A-
Josh Leyland, Rk
Catcher is still a position of depth for the A’s, especially with a pretty good catching draft in 2009, adding Stassi and Leyland. Kurt Suzuki, however, has cemented himself as the starting catcher for the A’s for the future and will likely be there till either Free Agency, or a year before. By that time, however, Stassi or Leyland should be ready. Landon Powell’s injuries have derailed him from being a starting catcher, but he hits well off the bench and can back up First Base as well, so Powell might stick around unless he is up seated by Josh Donaldson. But, Donaldson might be a trade candidate, as good hitting catchers are still hard to find, and he is blocked above by Suzuki and has fierce competition below from Stassi and Leyland. Paramore is what he was drafted as, and that’s disappointing; he is an all defense catcher with no power, and thus no offense. Still, an all defense catcher still has a future as a backup in the big leagues.
First Base/Designated Hitter:
Chris Carter, AAA
Sean Doolittle, AAA
Daric Barton, MLB
First Base is still a strong point in the A’s system. Chris Carter has propelled himself to the top of everyone’s prospect lists after fixing many of the knocks against him from his previous good year in Stockton. He raised his average to the .330’s and almost took the AA Triple Crown, failing only because of a call up to AAA Sacramento. Doolittle was looking good entering the year, but got derailed by injuries and missed most of the season, sending him back to AAA for 2010. Daric Barton has been a disappointment, failing to hit in the Majors, and is probably now just a placeholder till either Carter, Doolittle or Wallace takes over 1st Base. Wallace is another candidate for the 1st base job, and will probably take it if skeptics are to be believed, but for now is penciled in at 3B.
Second Base:
Adrian Cardenas, AAA
Jemile Weeks, AA
Nino Leyja, A-
The position is deeper than it looks, which could not be said a couple years ago, because of the amount of Short Stops in the system, of whom if they fail to stick at Short could be thrown over at SS or 3B. Cardenas tore up Double A Midland, and was promoted to Sacramento, only to struggle and get sent back to AA, where he again tore up the league. Again he was promoted to Sacramento, where this time he stuck. Jemile Weeks started his first full year tearing up High A Stockton after waiting around recovering from an injury. Weeks struggled a lot at AA Midland, however, and will return there again next year. Nino Leyja was awesome in the Arizona Fall League, but less impressive in Short Season Vancouver and Low A Kane County. But the toolsy middle infielder will likely get his chance again in 2010, but at 2nd Base with Grant Greene and Dusty Coleman pushing him over in the infield.
Third Base:
Brett Wallace, AAA
Jason Christian, A-
Amazing how thin 3rd Base still is for the A’s, after they fixed their 2B and SS holes. Still, if Wallace can stick at 3B, it will be a godsend. I mean, after all (cross your fingers) Eric Chavez was considered horrible defensively before becoming a gold glover, and Chavez has been approached about coaching Wallace at 3B between back surgeries. Jason Christian was a promising Short Stop draftee, and after hitting well in Short Season Vancouver, was sent to Low A Kane County. This year, however, with Dusty Coleman penciled in at Short, Christian was moved over to the hot corner, where the A’s believe he can stick. He has struggled, but will probably move up to High A Stockton in 2010. Speaking of moving positions, 3rd is boosted more than this if you take Adrian Cardenas, who might move to 3rd Base sooner or later, either to make room for Jemile Weeks, take over for Wallace if Wallace can not handle third defensively, or take over in the Majors while Mark Ellis is still under contract.
Short Stop:
Grant Green, A+
Dusty Coleman, A+
Cliff Pennington, MLB
It does not look pretty at the higher levels of the A’s system, with only Cliff Pennington, the A’s starting Short Stop, looking like he can amount to anything, and despite the label ‘Starting’, his future is as a backup utility player. Grant Green was drafted in the first round by the A’s in 2009 and will likely be fast tracked to the Majors if he performs well. Dusty Coleman, an over slot from 2008 and the A’s former top SS prospect, will likely follow right ahead or behind of Green, or might move parallel with him at another position (3B?). Its not as bleak as it was a year ago, but Short Stop is still a position to be wary with.
Center Field:
Corey Brown, AA
Grant Desme, A+
Rajai Davis, MLB
Ryan Sweeney, MLB
Rashun Dixon, SS
Centerfield has two promising stars for the A’s in the minors. Corey Brown is a toolsy outfielder who can do everything well, including hold his position at Centerfield, except something for what the lack of which has become an A’s trademark; staying healthy. Brown hit well in Double A between DL stints, and could either return to AA or move to AAA next year. Grant Desme destroyed High A Stockton, mashing homerun after homerun, and going to the Arizona Fall League for 2009. His first full year, Desme has been decimated by injuries the last two years. He will have to advance quickly if he wants to keep up, as he already has stayed back way too long. Rajai Davis appears to have put it all together in the big leagues, converting some of those outs into hits. But next year will show if that improvement is real or if its just a one year thing. Ryan Sweeney is proving all the skeptics about his ‘power potential’ right, showing none of it despite his size. Sweeney is moving between CF and RF at the moment, but his destiny is probably the bench. Rashun Dixon, the extremely toolsy centefielder, is struggling heavily in Short Season Vancouver. It is somewhat to be expected, though many believed that he could expand on his amazing Rookie League stats. But there is still a long time before he is ready.
Corner Outfield:
Aaron Cunningham, AAA
Travis Buck, AAA
Matt Spencer, AA
Shane Peterson, AA
Corner Outfield will also have the losers of the Centerfield race in it, so it is deeper than this. Still, it is manned by some also rans in a way. Cunningham still has promise, despite short stints of badness in the Majors. Travis Buck continues to hold a soft spot for A’s fans after his great Rookie year, followed by continual disappointments and injuries. Spencer was a throw in with the Joe Blanton trade, and like Josh Donaldson, has shined in the A’s system. Peterson, part of the Holliday/Wallace trade, has also held his own in Double A. But between Spencer and Peterson, it is questionable what to do with them, as they both play the same position (Corner OF / First Base). But there is still more, on that vien. Several of the First Base candidates are also being tried in the outfield, so we could very well see Chris Carter and Sean Doolittle on this list as well. Indeed, Doolittle is on the 1B List only because I am concerned that they might put him back at 1B/DH, for at least part of the AAA Seson, because of his injury.
Starting Pitcher:
Trevor Cahill, MLB
Brett Anderson, MLB
Vin Mazzaro, MLB
Josh Outman, MLB
Gio Gonzalez,MLB
Anthony Capra, A+
Arnold Leon, AA
Tyson Ross, AA
Clayton Mortensen, AAA
James Simmons, AAA
Fautino De Los Santos, DL
Brett Hunter, A-
Relief Pitchers:
Andrew Bailey, MLB
Joey Devine, MLB/DL
Brad Ziegler, MLB
Jerry Blevins, MLB
Jeff Gray, MLB
Sam Demel, AAA
Jared Lansford, AA
Andrew Carignan, A+
Starting Pitching in the minors has been disappointing for the A’s. Last year, it looked like the A’s would have a massive amount of pitching, so much that they would not know what to do with it all. This year, a lot of those prospects have disappointed. James Simmons is stalled at AAA, and Brett Hunter has not progressed as we’d like. Fautino DLS has had Tommy John, as has Josh Outman. But there are bright spots. Arnold Leon is doing exceptionally well as a starter in Double A Midland, and Anthony Capra has broken out in Single A. Tyson Ross is making progress with his new delivery in Double A, and the A’s acquired a new pitching prospect in Mortensen, though I liken him to a Right Handed Greg Smith, which isn’t a good thing. Prospect wise, the A’s graduated Cahill, Anderson, Mazzaro, Outman and Gonzalez, and dealt away Sean Gallagher. So the minors will look a bit thin for now, but thats because the Major rotation is full, with Dallas Braden also in the mix, and the question of Justin Duchscherer.
Relief wise, the A’s bullpen looks strong, with some help coming up from the minors in the form of Gray and soon to be Lansford and Demel, as well as any of the Starting Prospects that are moved into the bullpen.
The Future of the A’s looks good, but the near-term is bleak. At the Major League level, there are only a few spots in the lineup that are locked with regular players, but there are a lot of prospects that could make the jump soon. A 2011 Lineup could look as such;
2B Jemile Weeks
3B Adrian Cardenas
DH Chris Carter
1B Brett Wallace
RF Sean Doolittle
CF Corey Brown
LF Aaron Cunningham
C1 Kurt Suzuki
SS Cliff Pennington
Don't believe in yourself.
Believe in Me who believes in You.
by Zonis on Sep 14, 2009 8:46 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Why was Desme a corner outfielder in A+?
Founding member of the Eric Patterson fan club.
Mickey Storey should be on the bullpen list
Not a hard thrower, but he’s been effective in stints at levels above the point (AA, usually) where guys with command but no stuff at all typically get weeded out.
Lansford is, by contrast, horse manure. Hunter should be on the relief list, but he’s pretty close to becoming a non-prospect with the complete lack of command he’s showing. Henry Rodriguez is also a relief option, albeit strictly of the Mitch Williams variety.
Matt Sulentic is still sort of OK at corner OF, although his prospect status pretty much depends on how much stock you put in ARL adjustments.
Linda's in the cold ground, won't see her anymore
Somewhere out on the highway tonight, the drunken engines roar
It's just one of those things, one of those things
-- Al Stewart, "Accident on 3rd St."
In memory of Nick Adenhart and all victims of drunk driving
I completely agree
Maybe throw Paul Smyth in there too. I know he was just drafted this year and that he has only pitched in very low levels, but you can’t ignore his numbers: 36.1 IP, 44:4 K:BB, 0.49 WHIP between Vancouver and Kane County.
I'd add Ben Hornbeck, Henry Rodriguez and Michael Ynoa in there somewhere
Michael Spina isn’t great, or even very good, but he’s better than Jason Christian. Jeremy Barfield had a decent year in A at age 20. Graham Godfrey should make the majors barring injury. Michael Benacka is 26, but he’s intriguing in his own way.
I’m more optimistic about Barton than you seem to be. He’s 23 and has a 101 career OPS+ in the majors. That’s more impressive than anything Doolittle’s done.
It's not the results, it's how you look going about those results -- Tim McCarver
by WaddellCanseco on Sep 21, 2009 1:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Cubs
Gonna give this a twirl. Not going to put grades (or much info) for major league, but pre-arb guys. Age, level, grade and line from the level player finished at. Crap, I was going to put AB’s, but just realized I forgot and too lazy to go to it right now. Certainly would put the lines in more context. Rushed through this a bit, particularly with the end. My apologies.
C
Geovany Soto – Next year is going to be critical. A down season and there might be competition in 2011. Gotta stay in shape. Where’s Kerry Wood’s meal plan when you need it (supposedly, prior to 2009, he followed Wood on nutritional stuff (I think it was Wood, too lazy to check right now)
Welington Castillo, 22, AA, C+, .232/.275/.386. Supposedly improved with his defensive responsibilities. Bad luck offensively in the first half, settled down in the 2nd half. Can he put it together?
Others: Steve Clevenger (more of a backup backstop type), Sergio Burruel/Matt Cerda (too far away to make a list right now, although both are intriguing, Cerda was hurt), Luis Flores/Michael Brenly (wouldn’t be surprised if they could make it as backup backstop types, but considering they are far away, just not enough value), Robinson Chirinos (this might be a sleeper to focus on, Cubs like his leadership and he was basically Starlin Castro’s mentor this year, former MI late to catcher, something to ponder although best case is probably a backup backstop as well)
1st
Jake Fox/Micah Hoffpauir – Hoffpauir was a bit overhyped. I still think he can play in the bigs, but I never bought him as a starter. He also needs AB’s to keep in rhythm. I’m not sure what to think of Fox yet. Part of me thinks the hype train is getting ahead of itself there. Of the two, Fox has the better shot to stick as a starter, though I’m not sold on either.
If the qualification is top prospects, the Cubs don’t have anyone that fits that mold for 1st base. The two guys that garners attention from me would be
Rebel Ridling, 23, A, C, .310/.357/.486. Besides having an awesome name, he has a good glove for first and immense power, but his consistency in making contact comes and goes.
Jovan Rosa, 22, A, C, .301/.337/.464. I was high on him, but he was bad in A+. He settled down a bit in A. He had an injury early, and massive swing issues. He later acknowledged try to go too much for the long ball. Has to be more selective at the plate. When on, a sweet stroke, but the power is a question. Plays some third, but the glove for 3rd is … iffy.
Others: There’s some guys from this year’s draft crop that have some mild intrigue to them, but really, this is a thin position for the Cubs.
2nd:
Jeff Baker (actually, he might be hitting arb this offseason), Mike Fontenot – I buy Baker as a decent starter, good bench guy. I buy Fontenot similarly, but to a lesser extent.
Ryan Flaherty, 23, A, C+, .276/.344/.470. There were actually positive reports on his glove for short, but realistically, he’s likely headed to another spot, particularly with Castro and Lee in the system, and 2nd makes a lot of sense. He had to fix his swing this year, and had some bad luck early, but he put together a solid offensive season. Age will be chatted up, but I’m not too bothered in that, had Daytona been in the playoff chase, he likely would’ve been at A+ at some point, IMO.
Logan Watkins, 20, A-, C+, .326/.389/.391. Former prep QB manned 2nd in Boise this year and showed good discipline at the plate. He could be an intriguing top of the order type. I expect him to be brought along slowly. Putting him first is fine.
DJ LeMahieu, 21, A, C+, .316/.371/.368. Somewhat similar to Flaherty, both could be listed for short. Won’t star with the glove, but he’s probably passable for short, but better suited at 2nd. Offensively, his power wasn’t there enough his final year at LSU … will it develop?
Others: Tony Thomas, Nate Samson (I like him as a gritty type, but the Theriot’s of the world are more the exception than the rule, and even then, Theriot had to bide his time as others passed him), there’s a couple mildly intriguing guys from this year’s crop but too far away
SS
Ryan Theriot, Andres Blanco
Starlin Castro, 19, AA, B+/B, .288/.347/.396. Lee might be more talented, but he’s further away, and in Castro, you have a guy that has All-Star potential for short, according to BA. Something’s wrong with my mouse right now – check the 8/31 Ask BA. The power should develop a bit, and he was voted the top defensive shortstop in the FSL. I can understand being tentative and giving this a B, but I’ll lean B+ here due to his successful adjustment to AA.
Hak-ju Lee, 19, A-, Anywhere from B- to B+ I could buy, the latter if you are going solely on potential, .330, .399, .420. A very successful start for this toolsy kid, but he’s far away and has to grow into some more power. Only 8 months younger than Castro, but with Castro ahead and enough options from A to AA, I don’t expect the Cubs to aggressively push Lee. Could be wrong, but there should be a strong contingent of Koreans at Peoria next year and I expect the Cubs to keep Lee/Watkins together as much as possible.
Darwin Barney, 23 (nearly 24), AAA, C, .264/.304/.330. I debated putting Barney in here, or in others. At the end of the day, the position made the call. He’s solid enough with the glove that he could find a role in the bigs. Not going to hit for much, though.
Ryan Flaherty/DJ LeMahieu/Nate Samson could all stagger in here.
Others: Wesley Darvill (I am really fascinated with this kid, despite not getting out of the gate too well. Excellent physical tools, a nice swing from what I’ve seen), Junior Lake (a lot of physical tools, but has to put it together)
3rd:
Josh Vitters, 20, A+, .B+/B, 238/.260/.344. I don’t feel a need to go through Vitters, other than to say that, while I’ve always been concerned, I’m also going to give him some more time, considering the injuries in the 2nd half. He’s really the only legitimate Cubs third base prospect, unless a Flaherty or Lake move there, or someone really emerges.
OF
Sam Fuld – A guy who should be a capable depth OF, and in the right situation, might be able to start in CF for some teams.
Brett Jackson, 21, A, B/B-, .295/.383/.545. Banged up late in the year, but a good start to his career.
Tyler Colvin, 24, AA, C+, .300/.334/.524. He was rehabbing early, then missed time in b/w when he banged with Campana. He’s put together a solid season at AA, but there’s always going to be a nagging feeling with him due to his discipline.
Kyler Burke, 21, A, C+, .303//405/.505. He had a monster season in Peoria and is only 21. Has he turned the corner? We’ll find out next year, but all the tools are still there. He could go first on this list, and maybe even garner a B-.
Brandon Guyer, 23, AA, C/C+, .190/.236/.291. Former 5th round pick caught some fans eyes, including myself, after a solid season in Peoria. He had some bad luck in AA, but not enough to excuse the performance. After his demotion, he made contact, but had a serious power issue. Without power, he’s not as intriguing.
Jim Adduci, 24, AA, C, .300/.377/.388. Shame he doesn’t have more power, but he’s of a similar mold to Sam Fuld … but much taller.
Others: Tony Campana (has speed … baseball skills?) Jose Valdez (has been compared to Juan Pierre, I have some intrigue but just hit Peoria late),
Pitchers (only going 6 for now)
Jay Jackson, 22, AAA, B/B+. He’s still my top guy, although you could go with Cashner. Cashner has the better upside, but Jackson’s arsenal is better right now, although there’s some control issues. Certainly, character plays a role and by most indications, he showed poor judgment this year. That said, the Cubs still sent him up to AAA to end the year, indicating that he’s still in their plans. Had a really hot stretch before a bad month and the issues in AA. As fans, we didn’t get to see how serious his control problems that final month in AA were, as he was demoted and his stuff was too good for A+.
Andrew Cashner, 23, AA, B/B+. He’s made strides to develop as a starter, and he’ll get more work in AFL. He was on a leash for much of the year, and working to develop his pitches. I buy him as a starter now more than I did at the beginning of the year, but part of me still thinks he’s a closer. Has to get the slider back in shape.
Chris Carpenter, 23 (nearly 24), AA, B. Made a nice surge up. Has always had stuff, and very glad he simply stayed healthy. If he can stay healthy and improve command/consistency, a lot to be intrigued with.
Jeffry Antigua, 19, A, C+. Young lefty had a nice season and has solid stuff. Definitely an eye on him … particularly since the Cubs lefty starting pitching depth is so thin.
Ryan Searle, 20, A+, C+. Young raw righty is still a work in progress but held his own in Daytona. Has good sink, particularly for the size.
Chris Archer, 20 (nearly 21), A, C+. Young righty from the Indians in the DeRosa deal put together a solid year at Peoria, but has a ways to go.
Thoughts...
Overall, I agree. Good list. Although, I have some comments…
-No Chris Robinson at C? No Marquez Smith at 2B?
-Reportedly, the Cubs are going to move Jovan Rosa to catcher during the offseason. We’ll see how that transition goes, but if it succeeds, he will be much more intriguing.
-I’d probably split up starting pitchers from relief pitchers if this was my list. It’d look something like…
SPs
Jay Jackson
Chris Carpenter
Ryan Searle
Casey Coleman
Chris Archer
RPs
Andrew Cashner
Blake Parker
John Gaub
Chris Huseby
Tossup spot between Cales, Maestri, Sasser, and Buchter
I just can’t shake this nagging feeling I have about Cashner ending up in relief.
by Outshined_One on Sep 16, 2009 5:53 PM EDT up reply actions
I should've put Chris and Marquez
in there in the others sections for C (Chris) and 2nd/3rd for Marquez. oversight on my part.
As for Cashner, I still think that a Papelbon like path is quite likely in that he could spend the next year working as a starter, get called up for pen duty and be too good to move.
If I was listing a longer pitching list, I’d find a way to get Antigua in there.
Rosa at C would be much more intriguing, if he can stick (and he should have enough athleticism). There, the power that’s currently lacking for corner IF duty wouldn’t be much of an issue, and maybe he could focus on just making sweet contact.
Orioles
SP
Brian Matusz MLB- Possibly top SP prospect in pro ball, is nearly a finished product
Jake Arrieta AAA- The 3rd of the Big 3, has a tremendous fastball and very good slider, excellent K’s, Command is in question
Brandon Erbe AA- Break out 2009 season and improved his approach as well as his peripherals. Can be most dominant pitcher in system at times and gained consitency this year
Zach Britton HiA- Possibly better than Arrieta, he also had a true break out season, nearly a K an inning and elite GB tendency
Chorye Spoone HiA- Returning from labrum surgery, if he comes back 100% hes as good as any pitcher on list not named Matusz
Matt Hobgood Rk- 1st rounder from HS with 2 plus pitches already. Needs to work on 3rd and 4th pitches and get into better shape, but could be another TOR starter..
Ashur Tolliver Rk- High ceiling, big arm, pitched well in short stint in Aberdeen, drafted this year.
Jacob Cowan Rk- ANother high ceiling 09 draftee from O’s. He also pitched very well this year at Aberdeen, hes my sleeper pick to break out in 2010.
Bobby Bundy Rk- Big name from 08 draft, lost MPH on fastball and command was shoddy, needs to redeem himself in 2010
Jesse Beal Rk- Highly projectable, excellent command and curveball not to mention good GB tendencies. Word is that hes filling out and is up to the low 90’s on fastball.
Aaron Wirsch Rk- Another very projectable pitcher, this one from the 09 draft. He pitched very well in the GCL in small sample size.
(09 draftee’s Cam Coffey, Jarret Martin, Randy Henry, Ryan Berry, Tim Berry)
Catcher
Caleb Joseph A- Had a solid season, led league in hitting until he hit a wall last month of season. Power will start to come through soon.
Michael Ohlman Rk- Very high ceiling offensive catcher who is honing his catching and recieving skills. Singed for $995K
1B
Brandon Snyder AAA- Former 1st rounder is purest hitter in system. Power is beginning to come around but Harbor Park didnt help. Should be in ML in 10
Brandon Waring AA- Had a very good seaosn this year, raised his stock. Has probably best raw power in system and increased his walk rate.
Tyler Townsend Rk- Solid bat and good power. Had a bad stint in Aberdeen after being drafted. Hampered by wrist injuries, should be a solid offensive 1B, one of the safer O’s picks from this draft
2B
Justin Turner MLB- Solid bat, future utility man
Ryan Adams A- Very good bat, but bad attitude and horrendous fielding
LJ Hoes LoA- Solid tools across the board. Has good discipline, but it slipped this year playing in loA as a 19 y/o.
SS
Mychal Givens (09 draftee yet to play) High ceiling, needs bat to come around in order to reach ceiling. Has an excellent arm and range. Drafted as a SS
3B
Josh Bell AA- Tremendous power, good discipline, good bat, good fielder and good arm. Should be future 3B for O’s
OF
Xavier Avery- 5 tool athlete has tremendous skill, just needs polish. One of fastest kids in pro ball
Brenden Webb Rk- Good discipline, very good tools, didnt play much being a late signer from 09 draft
Arrieta was
a head case at TCU. When the grass is green, Jake mows ’em down. When adversity strikes, Jake throws balls. Will probably be more good than bad.
by redtopcowboy on Sep 17, 2009 8:42 AM EDT up reply actions
Jays
C – Arencibia, Perez, Murphy, Gomes, Ochinko, Jimenez, Jeroloman
1B – Cooper, Dopirak, McDade, Rodriguez, Durham, Roberts
2B – Emaus, Campbell, Tolisano, Schimpf, McClanahan, Sobolewski
3B – Fuenmayor, Ahrens, Schwartz, Glenn,
SS – Pastornicky, Goins, Pierre, Jackson
LF – Van Kirk, Chavez, Mastroianni
CF – Ramirez, McElroy, Wilson
RF – Sierra, Thames, Brisker, Loewen
DH – Dopirak, Loewen, Fuenmayor, McDade, Thames
SP – Cecil, Mills, Liebel, Bell, Alvarez, Purcey, Ray, Rodriguez, Huggins, Rzepczynski, Perez, Boone, Gonzalez, Sever, Shopshire, Page,
RP – Josh Roenicke, Stewart, Farquhar, Collins, Dials, Magnusson, Beck, Jason Roenicke
Tigers
Catcher
Alex Avila, MLB
Dusty Ryan, AAA
John Murrian, SS
Gabriel Purroy, VSL
First Base
Ryan Strieby, AA
James Robbins, Rookie
Billy Nowlin, A-
Rawley Bishop, SS
Second Base
Scott Sizemore, AAA
Brandon Douglas, A-
Will Rhymes, AAA
Alexander Nunez, Rookie
Third Base
Francisco Martinez, Rookie
Shortstop
Daniel Fields, N/A
Cale Iorg, AA
Audy Ciriaco, A+
Gustavo Nunez, A-
Javier Azcona, DSL
Edwin Gomez, Rookie
Brent Dlugach, AAA
Corner Outfield
Wilkin Ramirez, AAA
Avisail Garcia, A-
Brennan Boesch, AA
Alexis Espinoza, SS
Deik Scram, AA
Steven Moya, DSL
Center Field
Casper Wells, AA
Andy Dirks, AA
Starting Pitcher
Casey Crosby, A-
Jacob Turner, N/A
Andy Oliver, N/A
Alfredo Figaro, AA
Luis Marte, AA
Brayan Villareal, A-
Relief Pitcher
Cody Satterwhite, AA
Casey Fien, AAA
Zach Simons, AA
Robbie Weinhardt, AA
Jay Sborz, AAA
Scott Green, A+
Fu-Te Ni, MLB
Jared Gayhart, AA
Michael Torrealba, SS
Tyler Stohr, A-
Austin Wood, A+
Cale Iorg is not a prospect
Again. I repeat. Anderson Hernandez was a better prospect.
Oakland Athletics
These rankings are looking toward the near future with current and immediate expected production taken most heavily into account. The rankings are fairly loosely built in terms of importance. Moreso, they are based on who I like more going ahead—but target date of 2010/2011 in terms of producing at the major league level. On the flip side, there are some players who are low in their position (Buck/Cunningham) who are not in the place where I would put them, but in the place where I feel the A’s have them ranked.
Catcher
Kurt Suzuki MLB
Josh Donaldson AA
Max Stassi SS
Petey Paramore A
First base
Daric Barton MLB
Chris Carter AAA
Sean Doolittle AAA
Brett Wallace AAA
Josh Leyland AZL
Second base
Adrian Cardenas AAA
Jemile Weeks AA
Nino Leyja A
Third base
Brett Wallace AAA
Josh Donaldson AA
Adrian Cardenas AAA
Jason Christian A
Shortstop
Cliff Pennington MLB
Grant Green A+
Dusty Coleman A+
Left field
Chris Carter AAA
Sean Doolittle AAA
Grant Desme A+
Aaron Cunningham AAA
Travis Buck AAA
Center field
Rajai Davis MLB
Ryan Sweeney MLB
Grant Desme A+
Corey Brown AA
Scott Hairston MLB
Tyreace House A
Right field
Ryan Sweeney MLB
Sean Doolittle AAA
Corey Brown AA
Travis Buck AAA
Matt Sulentic AA
Rashun Dixon SS
Starting Pitching
Brett Anderson MLB
Dallas Braden MLB
Josh Outman MLB
Trevor Cahill MLB
Vince Mazzaro MLB
Gio Gonzalez MLB
Anthony Capra A+
Arnold Leon AA
Michael Ynoa AZL Instructs
Tyson Ross AA
Brett Hunter A
Relief Pitching
Andrew Bailey MLB
Joey Devine MLB
Michael Wuertz MLB
Brad Zeigler MLB
Sam Demel AAA
Andrew Carignan AA
Arnold Leon AA
Henry Rodriguez AAA
One of the things that is most easily seen is how many MLB players are at the top of the lists. This is a testament to how many young players the A’s have graduated to the major leagues in recent years—especially in the rotation. With Pennington, the A’s don’t have anyone at a close enough level to threaten him in the next 2 seasons so I have him at the top. If Green had been drafted last year, I would probably have him at the top. Barton has done just enough in his most recent ABs coming back from injury to earn himself another shot at the 1B job. Due to his high prospect status just a couple seasons ago and his lack of positional versatility in comparison to all other competitors (Doolittle and Carter in the OF and Wallace at 3B) I ended up putting him at the top—just barely. As you can see, I REALLY don’t like Scott Hairston. I don’t think Davis can keep this up either, but he’s just been doing so well, I don’t see how he can’t be #1 at CF. I’m probably higher than most on Doolittle, but I’ve gotten a chance to see him and his athleticism really stands out to me. He has all five tools—his speed is actually very good, and his ability to play LF, RF and 1B at very high levels makes me think that he will find a spot in Oakland soon after he recovers from his knee injury.
At this point, I think that Outman and Braden both have outpitched Cahill to lead the rotation behind lefty stud Anderson (tRA of 3.89) and after Cahill it’s a tossup between Gio and Mazzaro. And the A’s bullpen right now and in the future looks to be VERY good. More commentary on each position coming soon.
by nobodyinparticular on Sep 17, 2009 10:57 PM EDT reply actions
Blue Jays
Catcher
J.P. Arencibia, 23 AAA
Carlos Perez, 18 Rookie
Sean Ochinko, 21 SS
Antonio Jimenez, 18 A-
Yan Gomes, 21 SS
Jonathan Talley, 20 A-
Brian Jeroloman, 24 AA
Matthew Liuzza, 25 A+
First Base
David Cooper, 22 AA
Brian Dopirak, 25 AAA
K.C. Hobson, 18 N/A
Michael McDade, 20 A-
Second Base
John Tolisano, 20 A+
Brad Emaus, 23 AA
Ryan Schimpf, 21 SS
Justin McClanahan, 23 A-
Raul Barron, 23 A+
Leonardo Ferrini, 20 DSL
Third Base
Scott Campbell, 24 AAA
Balbino Fuenmayor, 19 A-
Kevin Ahrens, 20 A+
Mark Sobolewski, 22 A-
Bryson Namba, 18 Rookie
Manuel Falcon, 19 DSL
Shortstop
Tyler Pastornicky, 19 A-
Justin Jackson, 20 A+
Gustavo Pierre, 17 Rookie
Angel Sanchez, 25 AAA
Ryan Goins, 21 A-
Gari Pena, 17 Rookie
Alvaro Blanco, 17 DSL
Corner Outfielder
Adam Lind, 25 MLB
Travis Snider, 21 MLB
Yohermyn Chavez, 20 A-
Eric Thames, 22 A+
Moises Sierra, 20 A+
Jake Marisnick, 18 N/A
Gonzalo Gonzalez, 19 DSL
Brad McElroy, 23 A+
Brian Van Kirk, 23 A-
Emilio Bejas, 19 DSL
Adam Calderone, 25 AA
Welinton Ramirez, 22 SS
Center Fielder
Kenny Wilson, 19 A-
Darin Mastroinni, 23 AA
Markus Brisker, 18 SS
Michael Crouse, 18 Rookie
Eric Eiland, 20 SS
Buck Coats, 27 AAA
Designated Hitter
Randy Ruiz, 31 MLB
Starting Pitcher
Ricky Romero, 24 MLB
Marc Rzepcynski, 23 MLB
Brett Cecil, 22 MLB
Jesse Litsch, 24 MLB
Scott Richmond, 29 MLB
David Purcey, 27 MLB
Henderson Alvarez, 19 A-
Brad Mills, 24 AAA
Egan Smith, 20 SS
Deivy Estrada, 16 DSL
Chad Jenkins, 21 N/A
Andrew Liebel, 23 A+
Reider Gonzalez, 23 AA
Joel Carreno, 22 A-
Chuck Huggins, 22 A+
Luis Perez, 24 AA
Kenny Rodriguez, 24 AA
Fabio Castro, 24 AAA
Rob Ray, 25 AAA
Carlos Pina, 19 Rookie
Dave Sever, 22 SS
John Anderson, 20 A-
Daniel Webb, 19 N/A
Marcus Walden, 20 A+
Dennis Tepera, 21 Rookie
Ryan Page, 23 A+
Sean Smith, 25 AA
Relief Pitcher
Zach Stewart, 22 AAA
Tim Collins, 19 A+
Danny Farquhar, 22 AA
Robert Bell, 23 A+
Jose Vargas, 18 DSL
Misuel Diaz, 19 DSL
Zach Dials, 23 AA
Matt Daly, 22 A-
Kyle Ginley, 22 A+
Nestor Molina, 20 Rookie
Edgar Estanga, 23 AA
Alan Farina, 22 A+
Phillies
Belatedly, I see no one’s done them, so I’ll give it a whirl…
Catcher
Travis d’Arnaud, 20, A
Sebastian Valle, 19, A
Tim Kennelly, 22, AA
First Base
Jonathan Singleton, 18, Rk
Darin Ruf, 23, SS
Matt Rizzotti, 23, A+
Second Base
Harold Garcia, 22, A
Adam Buschini, 22, SS
Brad Harman, 23, AA
Third Base
Travis Mattair, 20, A
Anthony Hewitt, 20, SS
Shortstop
Freddy Galvis, 19, AA
Jonathan Villar, 18, SS
Jeremy Barnes, 22, SS
Corner Outfield
Domonic Brown, 21, AA
Michael Taylor, 23, AAA
Domingo Santana, 17, Rk
Zach Collier, 19, SS
Kelly Dugan, 18, Rk
Steve Susdorf, 23, AA
Center Field
Anthony Gose, 19, A
Leandro Castro, 20, SS
Quintin Berry, 24, AA
Kyrell Hudson, 18, Rk
Starting Pitcher
Kyle Drabek, 21, AA
J.A. Happ, 26, MLB
Trevor May, 19, A
Brody Colvin, 18, Rk
Vance Worley, 21, AA
Jonathan Pettibone, 19, SS
Yohan Flande, 23, AA
Joe Savery, 22, AAA
Michael Stutes, 23, AA
Jarred Cosart, 19, Rk
Matt Way, 22, A
Siulman Lebron, 22, SS
Steven Inch, 18, Rk
Ryan Sasaki, 18, Rk
Relief Pitcher
Scott Mathieson, 25, AA
Antonio Bastardo, 24, MLB
Michael Schwimer, 23, AA
B.J. Rosenberg, 23, AA
Sergio Escalona, 25, MLB
Justin de Fratus, 22, A
Austin Hyatt, 22, A
Mike Cisco, 22, AA
Chance Chapman, 25, AA
Mike Zagurski, 26, AA
Julian Sampson, 20, A+
Korey Noles, 24, A
The infield’s a mess, but there are some intriguing outfield athletes, and a slew of both projectable arms and lower-ceiling, higher-floor type arms. All in all, though, the system’s not in quite as bad of shape as you’d think, especially after dealing four Top 10 prospects for Cliff Lee.
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Certain photos copyright © 2012 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
