Minor League Ball - All PostsA SBNation Community about Minor League Baseball, Rookies, and Prospectshttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50915/minorlg-fav.png2018-11-30T15:36:43-05:00http://www.minorleagueball.com/rss/current/2018-11-30T15:36:43-05:002018-11-30T15:36:43-05:00A note from John Sickels
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<p id="afahUk">Below is a message from John Sickels, the editor of Minor League Ball.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">I can confirm that Minor League Ball content and archives will remain online and Vox will help with any transition to another platform. I can also confirm that the twitter account here will remain under my control.</p>— John Sickels (@MinorLeagueBall) <a href="https://twitter.com/MinorLeagueBall/status/1068600698512842752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a>
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<p id="cF3CAT">We want to thank him for his work on Minor League Ball, and thank you for reading.</p>
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https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/30/18119650/a-note-from-john-sickelsJohn Ness2018-11-29T11:53:36-05:002018-11-29T11:53:36-05:00New York Mets preliminary prospect grade breakdown
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<img alt="MLB: Spring Training-New York Mets at Detroit Tigers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/TDotYQVsxoSb-iSfRA4H1V3zQSk=/0x0:3246x2164/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62555291/usa_today_9937445.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Andres Gimenez | Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Early results from the Mets prospect list</p> <p id="dZxBUI">I have completed my first run through the <a href="https://www.amazinavenue.com/">New York Mets</a> farm system and the preliminary grades are listed below.</p>
<p id="4nz83c">Grade A: Zero<br>Grade A-: Zero<br>Grade B+: Two<br>Grade B: Three<br>Grade B-: Five<br>Grade C+: 30<br>Grade C: Everyone else</p>
<p id="Ts5YvP">There’s some play in the C+/B- range but the final results should be close to this. The names:</p>
<p id="qaNSXj">Ross Adolph, OF <br>Peter Alonso, 1B <br>Francisco Alvarez, C <br><span>Gerson Bautista</span>, RHP <br>Raul Beracierta, OF <br>Quinn Brodey, OF <br>Luis Carpio, INF <br>Joe Cavallaro, RHP <br><span>Gavin Cecchini</span>, INF <br>Stanley Consuegra, OF <br>Carlos Cortes, 2B <br>Tony Dibrell, RHP <br>Anthony Dirocie, OF <br>Justin Dunn, RHP <br>Riley Gilliam, RHP <br>Andres Gimenez, SS <br>Harol Gonzalez, RHP <br>Gregory Guerrero, INF <br><span>Luis Guillorme</span>, INF <br><span>Eric Hanhold</span>, RHP <br>Adrian Hernandez, OF <br>Adam Hill, RHP <br>Jordan Humphreys, RHP <br>Christian James, RHP <br>Anthony Kay, LHP <br>Jarred Kelenic, OF <br><span>Franklyn Kilome</span>, RHP <br>Desmond Lindsay, OF <br>Scott Manea, C <br>Ronny Mauricio, SS <br>Patrick Mazeika, C <br>Jose Miguel Medina, OF <br>Bryce Montes de Oca, RHP <br>Shervyen Newton, SS <br><span>Tomas Nido</span>, C <br>Stephen Nogosek, RHP <br>Conner O’Neil, RHP <br>Michael Paez, 3B <br>Jaylen Palmer, 3B-SS <br><span>Jordan Patterson</span>, 1B-OF <br>David Peterson, LHP <br>Zach Rheams, OF <br>Ryder Ryan, RHP <br>Ali Sanchez, C <br>Luis Santana, 2B <br>Junior Santos, RHP <br><span>Drew Smith</span>, RHP <br>Kevin <span>Smith</span>, LHP <br>Thomas Szapucki, LHP <br>Corey Taylor, RHP <br>David Thompson, 3B <br>Will Toffey, 3B <br>Joshua Torres, RHP <br>Freddy Valdez, OF <br>Jeremy Vasquez, 1B <br>Chris Viall, RHP <br>Mark Vientos, 3B <br>Jaison Vilera, RHP <br>Stephen Villines, RHP <br><span>Bobby Wahl</span>, RHP <br>Matt Winaker, OF <br>Kyle Wilson, RHP <br>Simeon Woods-Richardson, RHP <br><span>Daniel Zamora</span>, LHP </p>
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https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/29/18118033/new-york-mets-preliminary-prospect-grade-breakdownJohn Sickels2018-11-29T06:11:03-05:002018-11-29T06:11:03-05:00Danny Jansen set for everyday role behind the plate
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<img alt="MLB: Tampa Bay Rays at Toronto Blue Jays" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/mJX8jGoVlrc_35fOS8THEZ-1xWw=/0x0:3306x2204/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62476292/usa_today_11188476.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Open to trading Russell Martin, Blue Jays open the door for rookie catcher.</p> <p id="icJbOA">The <a href="https://www.bluebirdbanter.com/">Toronto Blue Jays</a> have one of the most talked-about farm systems, <a href="https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/2/18052358/blue-jays-valdimir-guererro-and-baseballs-bloodlines-run-deep-in-the-minors">and baseball bloodlines</a>, in major league baseball. In fact, you can’t hold a conversation, read a story, post a tweet, or listen to a podcast about Blue Jays prospects without hearing the names <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=guerre002vla">Vladimir Guerrero Jr</a>, <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=bichet000bo-">Bo Bichette</a>, and <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=biggio001cav">Cavan Biggio</a>. However, the prospect that could have the biggest impact on the 2019 club is catcher <span>Danny Jansen</span>.</p>
<p id="KMeogY">On Wednesday, Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports reported that the Blue Jays are entertaining the idea of trading <span>Russell Martin</span>, the team’s opening day catcher since 2015.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">An already-crowded catching market is growing even more saturated, as the Toronto Blue Jays have discussed trading Russell Martin and the Pittsburgh Pirates are open to dealing Francisco Cervelli, league sources told Yahoo Sports. Both are drawing interest from a number of teams.</p>— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) <a href="https://twitter.com/JeffPassan/status/1067982510603321345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2018</a>
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<p id="CQbE59">At the age of 35, Martin is certainly on the down-side of his career. However, he seems like exactly the kind of guy that would be good to have around when addressing a locker room full of prospects and young talent. </p>
<p id="WoPYJK">Toronto clearly likes what Martin brings to the table — having also used him at 3B, SS, and LF in 2018 — but the $20MM owed to him in 2019 could be a bit rich. At minimum, it’s enough of a reason to seek-out possible trade partners given the emergence of Jansen.</p>
<p id="fj0vMW">Passan also notes that the Blue Jays are willing to payout a significant amount of that salary. In doing so, the team will hope for a better return than if they were simply trying to dump the money. Now, what’s the asking price for an aging catcher that moonlights as a super-utility guy? That remains to be seen. It’ll also be interesting to see, as noted in the report, what happens if the Pittsburgh Pirates deal <span>Francisco Cervelli</span>. </p>
<h3 id="CrzUGA">The biggest takeaway?</h3>
<p id="JpbTrp">Jansen, who turns 24 years old just 16 games into next season, appears to have the trust of the Blue Jays front office. After posting a .347 OBP with a 115 OPS+ in his first taste of big-league action (95 PA’s in 31 games), they have every reason to be excited about their 16th round selection from 2013.</p>
<p id="gQexTv">Listed as our No. 6 prospect in the Blue Jays organization heading into 2018, here’s a look at our mid-season notes that were published 14 days prior to his MLB debut on August 13.</p>
<blockquote><p id="dyYMIP"><strong>6) Danny Jansen, C, Grade B</strong>: Age 23, 16th round pick in 2013 from high school in Appleton, Wisconsin; hitting .265/.390/.458 with 10 homers, 42 walks, 44 strikeouts in 260 at-bats in Triple-A; showing more isolated power this year while maintaining strike one judgment; defense has slipped a bit this year statistically but overall a successful transition to the IL, should be ready for MLB trial soon.</p></blockquote>
<p id="XPQioy">All of this makes sense for a team that is ripe with on-the-verge talent. The <a href="https://www.draysbay.com/">Tampa Bay Rays</a> shocked most of the baseball world by winning 90 games this year with a mixture of journeymen players and unproven youngsters. A similar case could be made for the Blue Jays in 2019. </p>
<p id="bLR99q"><a href="https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/10/23/18014048/mlb-organization-top-prospects-2019">Click here to see a list of our organizational Top 20’s heading into next season.</a></p>
https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/29/18117346/danny-jansen-everyday-role-russell-martin-toronto-blue-jaysKris Dunn2018-11-28T12:15:22-05:002018-11-28T12:15:22-05:00New York Mets preliminary prospect list
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<img alt="MLB: New York Mets at Cincinnati Reds" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/AydG9K1hO2SAcX0gNN--ilRpkE4=/0x0:2364x1576/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62422054/usa_today_10824621.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Mickey Callaway | David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>63 names under study</p> <p id="mdgyFr">I am working on the <a href="https://www.amazinavenue.com/">New York Mets</a> Top 20 Prospects for 2019 list. My first run through the system turned up 63 names worth looking at, listed below. Mention it in the comments if you think anyone important is missing.</p>
<p id="8T1WPA">Ross Adolph, OF<br>Peter Alonso, 1B<br>Francisco Alvarez, C<br><span>Gerson Bautista</span>, RHP<br>Raul Beracierta, OF<br>Quinn Brodey, OF<br>Luis Carpio, INF<br>Joe Cavallaro, RHP<br><span>Gavin Cecchini</span>, INF<br>Stanley Consuegra, OF<br>Carlos Cortes, 2B<br>Nabil Crismatt, RHP (free agent)<br>Tony Dibrell, RHP<br>Anthony Dirocie, OF<br>Justin Dunn, RHP<br>Riley Gilliam, RHP<br>Andres Gimenez, SS<br>Harol Gonzalez, RHP<br>Gregory Guerrero, INF<br><span>Luis Guillorme</span>, INF<br><span>Eric Hanhold</span>, RHP<br>Adrian Hernandez, OF<br>Adam Hill, RHP<br>Jordan Humphreys, RHP<br>Christian James, RHP<br>Anthony Kay, LHP<br>Jarred Kelenic, OF<br><span>Franklyn Kilome</span>, RHP<br>Desmond Lindsay, OF<br>Scott Manea, C<br>Ronny Mauricio, SS<br>Patrick Mazeika, C<br>Jose Medina, OF<br>Bryce Montes de Oca, RHP <br>Shervyen Newton, SS<br><span>Tomas Nido</span>, C<br>Stephen Nogosek, RHP<br>Conner O’Neil, RHP<br>Michael Paez, 3B<br>Jaylen Palmer, 3B-SS<br><span>Jordan Patterson</span>, 1B-OF<br>David Peterson, LHP<br>Zach Rheams, OF<br>Ali Sanchez, C<br>Luis Santana, 2B<br><span>Drew Smith</span>, RHP<br>Kevin <span>Smith</span>, LHP<br>Thomas Szapucki, LHP<br>Corey Taylor, RHP<br>David Thompson, 3B<br>Will Toffey, 3B<br>Joshua Torres, RHP<br>Freddy Valdez, OF<br>Jeremy Vasquez, 1B<br>Chris Viall, RHP<br>Mark Vientos, 3B<br>Jaison Vilera, RHP<br>Stephen Villines, RHP<br><span>Bobby Wahl</span>, RHP<br>Matt Winaker, OF<br>Kyle Wilson, RHP<br>Simeon Woods-Richardson, RHP<br><span>Daniel Zamora</span>, LHP </p>
https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/28/18116340/new-york-mets-preliminary-prospect-listJohn Sickels2018-11-28T08:01:04-05:002018-11-28T08:01:04-05:00Baltimore Orioles organization discussion
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<img alt="Chicago White Sox v Baltimore Orioles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Ft1b5EgZ4gx8FW78HSjSrzwqDo4=/0x228:2000x1561/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62414540/1034424284.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>How quickly can this be turned around?</p> <p id="I5q2F6">I am now working on the <a href="https://www.amazinavenue.com/">New York Mets</a> Top 20 prospects for 2019 list. The next team in line is the <a href="https://www.camdenchat.com/">Baltimore Orioles </a>to be followed by the <a href="https://www.thegoodphight.com/">Philadelphia Phillies</a>, the <a href="https://www.letsgotribe.com/">Cleveland Indians</a>, the <a href="https://www.azsnakepit.com/">Arizona Diamondbacks, </a>the <a href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com/">Houston Astros</a>, the <a href="https://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/">Chicago Cubs</a>, the <a href="https://www.bluebirdbanter.com/">Toronto Blue Jays</a>, and the <a href="https://www.federalbaseball.com/">Washington Nationals.</a></p>
<p id="ivLysL">Use this thread to discuss the Baltimore Orioles organization. Possible points for discussion include, but are certainly not limited to:</p>
<p id="Azdpli">****The Orioles were atrocious in 2018 with a horrendous 47-115 record. Ownership is putting a new front office in place. How quickly can new GM Mike Elias turn this around? What is a realistic expectation for 2019?</p>
<p id="5x0ZWA">****Assume that Elias is reading this article. If there was one piece of advice you’d like to give him, what would it be?</p>
<p id="RmL4i1">****What do you think of <span>Cedric Mullins</span>? Can he be a viable regular or is he a fourth outfielder?</p>
<p id="fULd4c">****Are Renato Nunez and <span>DJ Stewart</span> viable building blocks or just useful role players?</p>
<p id="67HhbG">****Obviously the Orioles need to invest a lot more on the international market and they are taking steps to do so. Is this a matter of just throwing money at the DR and Venezuela, or can you think of any outside-the-box ideas?</p>
<p id="bjjZlJ">****Timeline for Ryan Mountcastle and Yusniel Diaz?</p>
<p id="XK03Ca">****As always, discuss sleepers or anything else Orioles-oriented. </p>
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https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/28/18115033/baltimore-orioles-organization-discussionJohn Sickels2018-11-27T15:45:11-05:002018-11-27T15:45:11-05:00MLB Organization Top Prospects for 2019
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<img alt="Minor League Baseball: Southern League-All Star Game" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Z4-FaWOlEKex-iqkOSXrvaSBsPI=/0x69:2678x1854/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/61876921/usa_today_10908625.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Eloy Jimenez | Butch Dill-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Updated Top 20 Prospects Lists for all MLB systems</p> <p id="WqUipO">Here is an index for the Minor League Ball Top 20 prospects lists for each of the 30 Major League teams.</p>
<p id="aqy3MF">AMERICAN LEAGUE EAST</p>
<p id="7LnDIy">Baltimore Orioles<br><a href="https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/16/18099138/boston-red-sox-top-20-prospects-for-2019">Boston Red Sox (published November 16, 2018)</a><br>New York Yankees<br>Tampa Bay Rays<br>Toronto Blue Jays</p>
<p id="R4qsPs">AMERICAN LEAGUE CENTRAL</p>
<p id="63Mi59">Chicago White Sox<br>Cleveland Indians<br>Detroit Tigers<br><a href="https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/6/18069860/kansas-city-royals-top-20-prospects-for-2019">Kansas City Royals (published November 6, 2018)</a><br><a href="https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/10/23/18002156/minnesota-twins-top-20-prospects-for-2019">Minnesota Twins (published October 23, 2018)</a></p>
<p id="03Q1qK">AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST</p>
<p id="5JZDEh">Houston Astros<br>Los Angeles Angels<br>Oakland Athletics<br><a href="https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/27/18114614/seattle-mariners-top-20-prospects-for-2019">Seattle Mariners (published November 27, 2018)</a><br>Texas Rangers</p>
<p id="fDyZwB">NATIONAL LEAGUE EAST</p>
<p id="RAGEIX"><a href="https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/10/29/18040366/atlanta-braves-top-20-prospects-for-2018">Atlanta Braves (published October 29, 2018)</a><br>Miami Marlins<br>New York Mets<br>Philadelphia Phillies<br>Washington Nationals</p>
<p id="R7EVD0">NATIONAL LEAGUE CENTRAL</p>
<p id="Qjmi74">Chicago Cubs<br><a href="https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/21/18105597/cincinnati-reds-top-20-prospects-for-2019">Cincinnati Reds (published November 21, 2018)</a><br>Milwaukee Brewers<br>Pittsburgh Pirates<br>St. Louis Cardinals</p>
<p id="e3cxwB">NATIONAL LEAGUE WEST</p>
<p id="WHfW6F">Arizona Diamondbacks<br>Colorado Rockies<br><a href="https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/12/18088804/los-angeles-dodgers-top-20-prospects-for-2019">Los Angeles Dodgers (published November 12, 2018)</a><br>San Diego Padres<br>San Francisco Giants</p>
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https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/10/23/18014048/mlb-organization-top-prospects-2019John Sickels2018-11-27T13:00:08-05:002018-11-27T13:00:08-05:00Seattle Mariners Top 20 prospects for 2019
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<img alt="Arizona Fall League All Star Game" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Ag4b84v43SYCPD1Hcn-GdEstKmk=/0x0:3640x2427/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62411975/1058207348.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Evan White | Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>It is a thin system. . .</p> <p id="zT4jBb">Top 20 <a href="https://www.lookoutlanding.com/">Seattle Mariners</a> prospects for 2019</p>
<p id="C0DWYh">The list and grades are a blending of present performance and long-term potential. Comments are welcome, but in the end all analysis and responsibility is mine. </p>
<p id="ZVNuXA">QUICK PRIMER ON GRADE MEANINGS</p>
<p id="JA6mtB"><strong>Grade A prospects are the elite.</strong> <em>In theory</em>, they have a good chance of becoming stars or superstars. Theoretically, most Grade A prospects develop into stars or at least major league regulars, if injuries or other problems don’t intervene. Note that is a major “if” in some cases. </p>
<p id="lbaiOs"><strong>Grade B prospects have a good chance to enjoy successful careers</strong>. Some will develop into stars, some will not. Most end up spending several years in the majors, at the very least in a marginal role. </p>
<p id="ETBhON"><strong>Grade C prospects are the most common type.</strong> These are guys who have something positive going for them, but who may have a question mark or three, or who are just too far away from the majors to get an accurate feel for. </p>
<p id="hVq5xD"><em><strong>A few Grade C guys, especially at the lower levels</strong></em><em>, do develop into stars. </em>Many end up as role players or bench guys. Some don’t make it at all. </p>
<p id="6vfbYs">Finally, keep in mind that <em><strong>all grades are shorthand. </strong></em>A Grade C prospect in rookie ball could end up being very impressive, while a Grade C prospect in Triple-A is likely just a future role player.</p>
<p id="sPYSoL"><strong>ALL GRADES RE PRELIMINARY AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE AS THE WINTER PROGRESSES</strong></p>
<p id="dmWO0E"><strong>1) </strong><span><strong>Justus Sheffield</strong></span><strong>, LHP, Grade B+:</strong> Age 22, over from the <a href="https://www.pinstripealley.com/">New York Yankees</a> in the <span>James Paxton</span> deal, posted 2.48 ERA in 116 innings between Double-A and Triple-A, 123/50 K/BB, just 82 hits and four homers allowed; fastball into mid-90s, effective hard slider but change-up needs more work, as does general command; probably doesn’t have much left to learn in the minors, as his stuff is good enough to succeed in AAA even with remaining flaws; potential number three starter; <strong>ETA 2019.</strong></p>
<p id="26K1bF"><strong>2) Evan White, 1B, Grade B: </strong>Age 22, first round pick in 2017 from University of Kentucky, hit .303/.375/.458 with 11 homers, 52 walks, 103 strikeouts in 476 at-bats in High-A; excellent defender at first base; respected for pure hitting skills, controls zone well, game power is behind raw power, future development in that category will determine if he’s just a decent regular or something more; <strong>ETA 2020</strong>.</p>
<p id="mbHrqs"><strong>3) Logan Gilbert, RHP, Grade B</strong>: Age 21, first round pick in 2018 out of Stetson University; posted 2.72 ERA in 112 innings during college season, 163/25 K/BB, 71 hits; didn’t pitch in pro ball; college stats obviously excellent; low-to-mid-90s fastball, mixes in with hard slider, spike curve, and change-up; number three starter package, perhaps more once we get some pro data; <strong>ETA 2021</strong>. </p>
<p id="gjn3Tu"><strong>4) Kyle Lewis, OF, Grade B-:</strong> Age 23, first round pick in 2016 out of Mercer; hit .260/.303/.429 in 196 at-bats in High-A then .220/.309/.371 in 132 at-bats in Double-A; career has been slowed by knee injuries and contact concerns; can still look like a future star on the right day but performance against Double-A pitching was disappointing with mixed reports on swing mechanics and approach; let’s give him another year to get past the knee problems; ETA 2020.</p>
<p id="6ZQALh"><strong>5) </strong><span><strong>Julio Rodriguez</strong></span><strong>, OF, Grade B-</strong>: Age 17, signed out of Dominican Republic in 2017 for $1,750,000; hit .315/.404/.525 with five homers, 10 steals, 30 walks, 40 strikeouts in 219 at-bats in Dominican Summer League; unusually polished hitter for his age with good feel for the strike zone and plenty of bat speed; should hit for both average and power as he moves up though we need to see him at higher levels than the DSL; speed and arm should fit well in right field; <strong>ETA 2022. </strong></p>
<p id="TBr3sx"><strong>6) Dom Thompson-Williams, OF, Grade B-</strong>: Age 23, over from the Yankees in the <span>Paxton</span> trade; originally drafted in fifth round in 2016 from University of South Carolina; hit .299/.363/.546 with 22 homers, 20 steals, 33 walks, 102 strikeouts in 368 at-bats between Low-A and High-A; athletic, above-average power and speed potential; will need to see if approach holds up in Double-A to prove that ’18 breakout was real; <strong>ETA 2020.</strong></p>
<p id="Yo8kyY"><strong>7) </strong><span><strong>Braden Bishop</strong></span><strong>, OF, Grade B-:</strong> Age 25, third round pick in 2015 from University of Washington, hit .284/.361/.412 with eight homers, 37 walks, 68 strikeouts in 345 at-bats in Double-A, season ended early due to broken arm; stands out for speed and defense, will flash power but not consistently; looks like prototype fourth outfielder, perhaps more if power maximizes; ETA late 2019.</p>
<p id="uYmLNs"><strong>8) Cal Raleigh, C, Grade B-</strong>: Age 22, third round pick from Florida State University in 2018; hit .288/.367/.534 with eight homers, 18 walks, 29 strikeouts in 146 at-bats in Northwest League; switch-hitter with power and good strike zone sense, may not hit for high averages as he moves up but should produce SLG and OBP; defense needs work, has the tools but throwing and receiving marginal at this point; future will depend on glove progress; <strong>ETA 2021.</strong></p>
<p id="uMsXAA"><strong>9) Josh Stowers, OF, Grade B-</strong>: Age 21, second round pick in 2018 from University of Louisville; hit .260/.380/.4190 with 20 steals, 37 walks, 57 strikeouts in 200 at-bats in Northwest League; ideal leadoff type with speed and patience, has doubles power too; arm may limit him to left field; <strong>ETA 2021.</strong></p>
<p id="uLSuIx"><strong>10) </strong><span><strong>Erik Swanson</strong></span><strong>, RHP, Grade C+/B-:</strong> Age 25, originally in the <a href="https://www.lonestarball.com/">Texas Rangers</a> system, traded to Yankees in <span>Carlos Beltran</span> deal then on to Mariners in <span>Paxton</span> trade; solid year in high minors for Yankees, 2.66 ERA in 122 innings, 139/29 K/BB, 93 hits between Double-A and Triple-A; has always thrown strikes but put hitters away more effectively in ’18; low-90s fastball, sometimes higher, mixed with good-enough slider and change-up, number four starter projection. <strong>ETA 2019.</strong></p>
<p id="ssFXr3"><strong>11) Jake Fraley, OF, Grade C+/B-:</strong> Age 23, comp round pick out of LSU by the <a href="https://www.draysbay.com/">Tampa Bay Rays</a> in 2016, traded to Mariners in November Mike Zunino deal; pro career has been slowed by injuries but he hit very well in 2018, .347/.415/.547 in 225 at-bats in High-A, 26 walks, 44 strikeouts, 11 steals; line drive hitter with good speed and doubles power, fourth outfielder projection although could be more if power turns out better than expected; good defender; <strong>ETA 2020</strong></p>
<p id="eZDOaT"><strong>12) Sam Carlson, RHP, Grade C+:</strong> Age 19, second round pick in 2017 from high school in Minnesota; hurt elbow in spring training, tried to rehab without surgery but eventually had Tommy John surgery in July, will miss 2019 so this will cost him two seasons of development; when healthy features 92-97 MPH heater with potentially plus slider and change-up; <strong>ETA ???</strong></p>
<p id="jvD7Cv"><strong>13) Noelvi Marte, SS, Grade C+:</strong> Age 17, signed out of the Dominican Republic for $1,550,000 in July 2018, hasn’t played yet obviously; scouting reports indicate significant power potential along with one of the more polished bats in the class; has a chance to stick at shortstop although many expect he’ll wind up at third or perhaps right field eventually; we need to see him play before going higher but the reports are promising<strong>; ETA ???</strong></p>
<p id="0bBL5I"><strong>14) </strong><span><strong>Joey Curletta</strong></span><strong>, 1B-OF, Grade C+:</strong> Age 24, sixth round pick in 2012 by the <a href="https://www.truebluela.com/">Los Angeles Dodgers</a> from high school in Arizona, traded to the <a href="https://www.thegoodphight.com/">Phillies</a> in 2016 then to the Mariners in 2017, hit .282/.383/.482 with 23 homers, 81 walks, 130 strikeouts in 465 at-bats in Double-A and was added to the 40-man roster last month to protect him from the Rule 5 draft; big power and has improved command of the strike zone over the last two years; decent glove at first base and can play corner outfield in an emergency; could sneak up on us, don’t overlook; <strong>ETA late 2019. </strong></p>
<p id="Mycj6f"><strong>15) Matthew Festa, RHP, Grade C+:</strong> Age 25, seventh round pick in 2016 from East Stroudsburg University; posted 2.76 ERA with 20 saves, 67/12 K/BB in 49 innings in Double-A, then pitched 8.1 innings in majors with 2.16 ERA, 4/2 K/BB; classic middle/short reliever with 91-96 MPH fastball, impressive slider, throw strikes; ready soon; <strong>ETA 2019.</strong></p>
<p id="tygmqc"><strong>16) Joey Gerber, RHP. Grade C+: </strong>Age 21, eighth round pick in 2018 from University of Illinois; excellent pro debut with 2.10 ERA in 26 innings between Northwest League and Low-A, 43/11 K/BB, eight saves; relief profile similar to Festa with 91-96 MPH fastball, good slider, good control; expected to move through system quickly; <strong>ETA 2020</strong>.</p>
<p id="qDLYjP"><strong>17) Wyatt Mills, RHP, Grade C+:</strong> Age 23, third round pick in 2017 out of Gonzaga, posted 3.57 ERA in 53 innings between High-A and Double-A, 59/13 K/BB, 11 saves; another fastball/slider reliever who throws strikes; Mariners seem to love these guys; <strong>ETA 2020</strong>.</p>
<p id="228Ihh"><strong>18) Keegan McGovern, OF, Grade C+:</strong> Age 23, ninth round pick in 2018 from University of Georgia; hit .268/.351/.523 with 15 homers, 28 walks, 66 strikeouts in 239 at-bats in Low-A; adapted quickly to pro ball; Midwest League sources liked his power and he could make a lot of noise in the hitter-friendly California League; <strong>ETA 2021</strong>. </p>
<p id="VslYX9"><strong>19) </strong><span><strong>Dylan Moore</strong></span><strong>, INF-OF, Grade C+:</strong> Age 26, originally drafted by Texas Rangers in seventh round in 2015 from University of Central Florida; signed as minor league free agent by Mariners but was added to 40-man to protect from Rule 5; hit combined .299/.363/.522 with 14 homers, 23 steals, 35 walks, 68 strikeouts in 408 at-bats between Double-A and Triple-A; older prospect at 26 but versatile, has some power and speed, can play every position except catcher and even pitched in one minor league game in 2016; a “sneak up on us” type; <strong>ETA 2019.</strong></p>
<p id="92N2Tk"><strong>20) Juan Querecuto, SS, Grade C+:</strong> Age 18, signed out of Venezuela in 2017 for $1,225,000; hit .243/.331/.329 in 243 at-bats in the Dominican Summer League; years away but has one of the better physical ceilings in the system; error-prone at shortstop but has the tools to stick there with more reps; bat is projectable, might hit for average with moderate power eventually; <strong>ETA 2023.</strong></p>
<p id="zJ0mLC"><strong>OTHER GRADE C+</strong> Sam Delaplane, RHP; Eric Filia, OF; Ivan Fortunato, RHP; Nolan Hoffman, RHP; Bobby Honeyman, 3B; Austin Hutchison, RHP; <span>Cesar Izturis</span>, Jr, INF; Luis Liberato, OF; David McKay, RHP; <span>Ian Miller</span>, OF; <span>Max Povse</span>, RHP; Joe Rizzo, 3B; <span>Nick Rumbelow</span>, RHP; <span>Rob Whalen</span>, RHP; Art Warren, RHP; Donnie Walton, INF</p>
<p id="35KG2n"><strong>OTHERS:</strong> <span>Ruben Alaniz</span>, RHP; <span>John Andreoli</span>, OF; Dayeison Arias, RHP; Damon Casetta-Stubbs, RHP; Joe DeCarlo, C; Anthony Jimenez, OF; Michael Koval, RHP; <span>Chris Mariscal</span>, INF Darren McCaughan, RHP; Anthony Misiewicz, LHP; Ljay Newsome, RHP; Joey O’Brien, RHP; Ryne Ogren, SS; Joseph Rosa, 2B; Ronald Rosario, OF; <span>Chuck Taylor</span>, OF; Logan <span>Taylor</span>, 3B-OF </p>
<p id="8a7WjT">The Mariners system has a reputation as being very thin. The reputation is deserved.</p>
<p id="9FDGDB">Spots 12 through 20 could be ordered in many different ways with several of the “other C+” guys having a case to be written up. I selected a mixture of bullpen candidates, long-term speculative plays, and possible “sneak up on us” guys for write-ups.</p>
<p id="872Lu8">I will answer questions in the comments section and feel free to email comments to minorleagueprospects@gmail.com for inclusion on the podcast.</p>
https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/27/18114614/seattle-mariners-top-20-prospects-for-2019John Sickels2018-11-27T11:58:06-05:002018-11-27T11:58:06-05:00Chicago White Sox: Untouchable prospects list
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<img alt="MLB: Spring Training-Chicago White Sox at Seattle Mariners" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/iYbED2w_E3NdsCUZdwuzXLeboQ0=/0x115:3231x2269/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62411956/usa_today_10698286.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The buying White Sox will not deal any of these prospects</p> <p id="FaPWDs">For the first time in a few years, the <a href="https://www.southsidesox.com/">Chicago White Sox</a> are buyers heading into the offseason. </p>
<p id="eeTN8p">With the annual Winter Meetings on the horizon, the White Sox will certainly be looking to make a trade or two.</p>
<p id="yPpzAJ">Keeping in mind the fact that the White Sox are still in the midst of a rebuild, lets take a look at the prospects that won't be on the move in the next month.</p>
<h2 id="VcW5OR"><strong>Absolutely no chance of being traded</strong></h2>
<p id="jKMQcF"><span>Eloy Jimenez</span>: </p>
<p id="0dk9xh">The White Sox top prospect, <span>Eloy Jimenez</span> is the future of the White Sox. <span>Jimenez</span> is the #3 prospect in all of baseball, and is expected to be a prime Rookie of the Year candidate once he gets the call to the majors early next season. </p>
<p id="KpN2Mf"><span>Michael Kopech</span>:</p>
<p id="f3N9Cl"><span>Kopech</span> is the White Sox top pitching prospect, and is out for all of next season due to Tommy John Surgery. TJS or not, <span>Kopech</span> would not be included in any trade, given his high ceiling, and the dedication put towards the development of <span>Kopech</span> thus far in the rebuild.</p>
<p id="ymIVhY"><span>Dylan Cease</span>:</p>
<p id="UQkh3R">Like Kopech and <span>Jimenez</span>, Cease is part of the White Sox future core. Their 2018 Minor League Pitcher of the Year, Cease is coming off of an incredible season. While Cease isn't expected in the major leagues until late next season at the earliest, his potential is just too high for the White Sox to include him in any trade discussions.</p>
<p id="6yJqn6">Luis Robert: </p>
<p id="yMllh7">Robert is the dark horse of the White Sox rebuild. Their #4 prospect, Robert was the top international free agent before he signed with the White Sox for over $20-million in 2017. Robert had a huge Arizona Fall League stint this past month, and considering his young age, Robert won't be going anywhere. </p>
<h2 id="qdeqoI"><strong>Too early to be traded</strong></h2>
<p id="W2FUkT">Nick Madrigal, Steele Walker, all 2018 Draft Picks:</p>
<p id="iIhIEd">By rule, any draft pick cannot be traded until after the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/world-series">World Series</a>. While the World Series is far past, the White Sox are certainly not going to be dealing any player that has played less than half of a season with the organization. Additionally, Madrigal and Walker are way too valuable, and play too big of a role in the White Sox future plans to be considered in a deal.</p>
<h2 id="UwqK4Z"><strong>Good chance of not being traded</strong></h2>
<p id="1xQ69v">Dane Dunning:</p>
<p id="plFyGT">Dane Dunning had a great season in Double-A up until a right forearm injury that shelved him for the rest of the season midway through June. Dunning, if he stays healthy, has a great chance of making it to Chicago at some point in 2019. While the White Sox would prefer to see Dunning make some sort of an impact in the majors before trading him, he doesn't play as big of a role in their future plans to make him completely untouchable.</p>
<p id="hRtqMX">Luis Alexander Basabe:</p>
<p id="5yJGen">Luis Alexander Basabe had a big first half of the 2018 season, earning a spot in the 2018 All-Star Futures Game. While Basabe cooled off a bit in the second-half, he projects as a player with 20-20 potential, and is a toolsy young outfielder. Basabe doesn't have a clear spot in the White Sox future lineup, but his ceiling remains high, and for that, he’s highly unlikely to be dealt.</p>
<p id="8BlcpH"><strong>Notable Exclusions:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="2tFfw4">Alec Hansen: Coming off of a horrendous season, but upside remains high, former Top-100 prospect with a solid deal of trade value.</li>
<li id="3vRGKx">Blake Rutherford: Slowly progressed, still a while away from the majors, frequently overlooked. Value pretty high, would be the first Top-100 guy to go.</li>
<li id="fmYTd4">
<span>Micker Adolfo</span>: Has emerged as a potential future difference-maker, but injuries and future projection are causes for concern.</li>
<li id="XJ16p5">Zack Collins: Depth at catcher in the organization, emergence of <span>Omar Narvaez</span>, and Collins’ up-and-down 2018 season make him somewhat of a candidate to be traded.</li>
</ul>
https://www.minorleagueball.com/2018/11/27/18113264/chicago-white-sox-untouchable-prospects-listJason Kinander