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Post by Cubs GM (Scott B) on Feb 13, 2019 16:23:38 GMT -5
Sickles Top 100
1) Vladimir Guerrero Jr., 3B, Toronto Blue Jays, (Grade A): Very rare combination of bat speed, raw power, plate discipline and general polish belies his age; annihilated Double-A and Triple-A (.381/.437/.636) and just 19 years old; defense at third base isn’t terrible, in my opinion; arm works, but he may wind up at first base eventually if he loses too much range; ceiling: a cross between his father and Miguel Cabrera; ETA 2019.
2) Fernando Tatis Jr., SS, San Diego Padres, (Grade A): Originally signed by White Sox, traded to Padres for James Shields, a trade that will go down in infamy; hit .286/.355/.507 in Double-A at age 19, with 16 homers and 16 steals; you can make a good case for Tatis at No. 1 ahead of Vlad; explosive athlete with power, speed; doesn’t have Vlad’s supernatural strike zone judgment but is more athletic and has greater defensive value; ETA 2019.
3) Eloy Jiménez, OF, Chicago White Sox, (Grade A): Signed by Cubs in 2013, traded to Sox in 2017 and blossomed into their best hitting prospect, hitting .337/.384/.577 with 22 homers in Double-A/Triple-A; big improvements in pitch recognition and swing mechanics combined with 70-grade raw power give him little left to prove in the minors at age 22; would be No. 1 prospect in many classes; ETA 2019.
4) Wander Franco, SS, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade A): It is difficult for a rookie ballplayer to rank this high, but Franco hit a stunning .351/.418/.587 with 11 homers, 27 walks, and just 19 strikeouts in the Appalachian League and has the tools to back that up; switch-hitter with premium approach, excellent feel for the barrel, superb eye, growing power; glove needs polish, but he’s only 17; ceiling: Francisco Lindor; ETA 2021.
5) Forrest Whitley, RHP, Houston Astros, (Grade A): Top pitching prospect in baseball, first-round pick in ‘16, missed much of ‘18 with drug-abuse suspension and minor injuries but posted 3.76 ERA with 34/11 K/BB in 26 innings at Double-A; age 21, 94-98 fastball with movement, excellent change-up, good curve, slider, cutter, throws strikes; all the physical and mental attributes for a top-of-rotation arm; ETA late 2019.
6) Victor Robles, OF, Washington Nationals, (Grade A-): Missed much of ’18 with elbow injury but came back in mid-summer, hit .278/.356/.386 in 40 games in Triple-A, then .288/.348/.525 in 21 games in the majors; stole 22 bases combined; blazing speed and plus defense play immediately; still just 21; may be inconsistent in short term but with long-term, multi-category impact; ETA 2019.
7) Nick Senzel, INF, Cincinnati Reds, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2016 on verge of promotion to MLB last year when injuries struck, limiting him to 44 games in Triple-A; hit .310/.578/.509 before getting hurt; very polished, age 23; should hit for high batting average, high OBP, solid power; versatile glove; watch for spring health reports; ETA 2019.
8) Royce Lewis, SS, Minnesota Twins, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2017, still only 19 years old; hit .292/.352/.451 in A-ball with 14 homers, 28 steals; excellent athlete with undeniable speed and growing power; relatively polished approach at the plate should keep offense consistent; good chance to stay at shortstop long-term; ceiling: Barry Larkin; ETA 2021.
9) Kyle Tucker, OF, Houston Astros, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2015 hit .332/.400/.590 in Triple-A at age 21; 24 homers, 20 steals; hit just .141/.236/.203 in 28 MLB games, but nothing left to prove in minors, just needs to play; should impact with power and OBP; ETA 2019.
10) Alex Kirilloff, OF, Minnesota Twins, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2016, he missed ’17 with Tommy John surgery but came back healthy in ’18; destroyed A-ball at .348/.392/.578, 44 doubles, 20 homers; outstanding bat speed projects well for both average and power at higher levels; tools fit in right field but bat plays anywhere; ETA late 2020.
11) Jesus Luzardo, LHP, Oakland Athletics, (Grade A-): Third-round pick by Nationals in 2016, traded to A’s for Sean Doolittle; 2.88 ERA with 129/30 K/BB in 109 innings between A, Double-A, and Triple-A; plus fastball in mid-90s plays up due to contrast with excellent change-up, solid curve; throws strikes and will be ready soon; No. 2 starter potential; ETA 2019.
12) Mackenzie Gore, LHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2017, age 19, 4.45 ERA with 74/18 K/BB in 61 innings in A-ball; missed time with blisters; ERA misleadingly high; keys here are mid-90s fastball, full arsenal with strong slider, curve, change-up combo; usually throws strikes; excellent mound presence; No. 2 starter potential; ETA 2021.
13) Bo Bichette, SS, Toronto Blue Jays, (Grade A-): Second-round pick in 2016, still just age 20, hit .286/.343/.453 with 43 doubles, 11 homers, 32 steals in Double-A; some of those doubles may become homers eventually; steals bases with instinct and polish rather than pure straight-line speed; some risk he moves to second base but bat will certainly play there; ETA late 2019.
14) Brendan Rodgers, INF, Colorado Rockies, (Grade A)-: First-round pick in 2015, age 22, hit .268/.330/.460 with 17 homers, 12 steals in Double-A; more power than Bichette and will go into a friendlier home park but strike zone judgment needs more work; expect inconsistent OBP/BA, but power and Coors could mask approach issues; ETA late 2019.
15) Jo Adell, OF, Los Angeles Angels, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2017, reached Double-A at age 19, hit .290/.355/.543 overall between Single-A and Double-A, with 20 homers, 15 steals; obvious power/speed impact potential; plate discipline needs tightening but so far it hasn’t hurt him; some risk but a very high ceiling; possible 20/20 type; ETA 2020.
16) Keston Hiura, 2B, Milwaukee Brewers, (Grade B+): First-round pick in 2017, age 22, hit .293/.357/.464 with 13 homers, 15 steals in Single-A and Double-A; draws praise for pure hitting skills and above-average power that may increase further; limited to second defensively but ready soon; ETA 2019.
17) Casey Mize, RHP, Detroit Tigers, (Grade B+): First-round pick in 2018 from Auburn, 3.95 ERA with 14/3 K/BB in 14 innings in A-ball after long college season; extremely polished with superior control, plus fastball, splitter, slider; won’t need long in minors; main worry is durability but future No. 2 starter if health holds; ETA 2020.
18) Dylan Cease, RHP, Chicago White Sox, (Grade B+): Sixth-round pick by Cubs in 2014, traded to Sox in Jose Quintana deal; 2.40 ERA with 160/50 K/BB in 124 innings in Single-A and Double-A, just 82 hits allowed; can hit 100 mph and regularly works at 96-97 mph; excellent curveball, but slider, change-up, and command can be erratic; has made good progress; No. 2 upside; ETA late 2019.
19) Ian Anderson, RHP, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): First-round pick in 2016, age 20, 2.49 ERA in 119 innings in Single-A and Double-A, 142/49 K/BB, with just two homers allowed; mid-90s fastball with above-average curveball and solid change-up; strong command for his age; looks like future workhorse; ETA 2020.
20) Brendan McKay, LHP, Tampa Bay Rays. (Grade B+): Age 23, first-round pick in 2017 from Louisville; 2.41 ERA in 78 innings in A-ball; 103/14 K/BB was spectacular; missed time with oblique injuries; excellent command of low-90s fastball, cutter, curveball, change; also a prospect as a first baseman but I think his future impact on the mound will be greater; ETA 2020.
SPECIAL CASE: Yusei Kikuchi, LHP, Seattle Mariners: Age 27, coming over from Japan after years of success with the Seibu Lions; best pitch is slider but has mid-90s fastball and full secondary arsenal; posted 3.08 ERA, 153/45 K/BB in 164 innings in 2018, and 1.97 ERA with 217/49 K/BB in 188 innings in 2017; not a typical prospect due to age and experience and thus doesn’t show up on many prospect lists, but he’s a rookie by MLB rules and should be an above-average starter; ETA 2019.
21) Alex Reyes, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals, (Grade B+): Age 24, long-time resident of top prospect lists but still a rookie due to injuries, missing 2017 with Tommy John and almost all of 2018 with lat injury; posted 0.00 ERA in 23 innings combined between four levels (including 4 IP with St. Louis) with 44/7 K/BB before getting hurt; where you rank him on the stairway depends on your risk tolerance but the song remains the same: Reyes is enormously talented, but can he stay healthy?; ETA 2019.
22) Brent Honeywell, RHP, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B+): Age 23, missed 2018 with Tommy John surgery; like Reyes, placement of Honeywell hinges on how you weigh injury concerns; mid-90s heater when healthy along with plus screwball, slider, change-up, command, make-up, all hallmarks of future No. 2 or strong No. 3 starter; ETA 2019.
23) Luis Urias, 2B, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Signed out of Mexico in 2013, hit .296/.398/.447 in Triple-A at age 21; 30 doubles, eight homers; hit .208 in 48 MLB AB but he’s better than that; solid doubles power with good eye at the plate, should provide plenty of OBP; very reliable with the glove at second; ready for the job; ETA 2019.
24) Francisco Mejia, C, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Age 23, acquired from the Indians last summer; hit .293/.338/.471 with 14 homers in Triple-A; .179 with three homers in 56 MLB AB; switch-hitter with genuine power, has tools to be solid defender though needs polish with receiving; still projects as a regular catcher if Padres are patient with the glove; ETA 2019.
25) Keibert Ruiz, C, Los Angeles Dodgers, (Grade B+): Age 20, signed out of Venezuela in 2014, hit .268/.328/.401 with 12 homers in Double-A; very young for the level; defense excellent, bat coming along with power and good contact hitting ability; projects as a regular, no question; could rank ahead of Mejia depending on how you value defense; ETA 2020.
26) Sixto Sanchez, RHP, Miami Marlins, (Grade B+): Age 20, signed by Phillies in 2015, limited to 47 innings in A-ball by sore elbow but dominated; 2.51 ERA with 45/11 K/BB; can hit 100 mph, and throws strikes with curve and change-up; very high ceiling but with significant questions about durability like many pitchers in his range; ETA 2021.
27) Chris Paddack, RHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Age 23, eighth-round pick in 2015, ridiculous numbers with 2.10 ERA, 120/8 K/BB in 90 innings in Single-A/Double-A; just 66 hits allowed; excellent change-up and insane control help low-90s fastball play up; mid-rotation projection but that may be underestimating him; ETA late 2019.
28) Mitch Keller, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates, (Grade B+): Age 22, second-round pick in 2014, excellent in Double-A (2.72, 76/32 in 86 innings) but wobbled some in Triple-A (4.82, 57/22 in 52, 59 hits); stuff is fine at 93-97 mph with a good curve but location and change-up inconsistent; No. 3 starter projection; ETA 2019.
29) A.J. Puk, LHP, Oakland Athletics, (Grade B+): Age 23, first-round pick in 2016, missed all of ’18 with Tommy John surgery; nasty power stuff with fastball up to 97, wicked slider, change-up showing good progress before injury; overpowering at his best with No. 2 upside; track spring health reports closely; ETA 2020.
30) Triston McKenzie, RHP, Cleveland Indians, (Grade B+): Age 21, comp-round pick in 2015, 2.68 ERA with 87/28 K/BB in 91 innings in Double-A; low-90s heater plays up due to plus curve, solid change-up and control, excellent mound presence; main worry is durability but has stuff and feel to be No. 3 starter; ETA late 2019.
31) Mike Soroka, RHP, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 21, first-round pick in 2015, posted 2.00 ERA in 27 innings in Triple-A, then 3.51 ERA in 26 innings in MLB with combined 52/13 K/BB but pitching time limited by shoulder trouble; heavy 92-94 fastball, slider, curve, change all solid, throws strikes; ready to be No. 3 type if health OK; ETA 2019.
32) Taylor Trammell, OF, Cincinnati Reds, (Grade B+): Age 21, comp-round pick in 2016, hit .277/.375/.406 in A-ball, with 25 steals, eight homers; enormously fun to watch in person with blazing speed, developing power, sharp defense despite questionable arm; could be top-of-the-order force; ETA late 2020.
33) Justus Sheffield, LHP, Seattle Mariners, (Grade B+): Age 22, first-round pick by Indians in ’14, traded to Yankees in ’16 then to Mariners this past fall; 2.48 ERA in Double-A/Triple-A with 123/50 K/BB in 116 innings, with 82 hits allowed; lively fastball into mid-90s, excellent slider, but change-up and overall command still spotty; expect ups-and-downs but mid-rotation upside; ETA 2019.
34) Kyle Wright, RHP, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 23, first-round pick in 2017 from Vanderbilt; 3.46 ERA with 133/51 K/BB in 138 innings in Double-A/Triple-A; classic right-handed starter with 94- to 97-mph fastball, curve, slider, change; all pitches very good, but command can be erratic; No. 3 starter projection with a chance to be more; ETA 2019.
35) Michael Kopech, RHP, Chicago White Sox, (Grade B+): Age 22, 3.70 ERA with 170/60 K/BB in 126 innings in Triple-A; hurt elbow and will miss ’19 with Tommy John surgery; 96-100 mph when healthy with vicious slider; tough to rank with the injury so YMMV (Your Mileage May Vary); ETA 2020?
36) Austin Riley, 3B, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 21, comp-round pick in 2015, hit .294/.360/.522 with 19 homers in Double-A/Triple-A; has issues with contact (129 whiffs) and approach but bat speed and power compensated so far; glove can stick at third base; could have short-term consistency issues but regular projection is obvious; ETA late 2019.
37) Yordan Alvarez, OF, Houston Astros, (Grade B+): Age 21, signed by Dodgers out of Cuba in 2016 then traded to Astros; hit .293/.369/.534 with 20 homers in Double-A/Triple-A; plus power from the left side combined with good strike zone judgment should make him consistently productive; not much speed but OBP and SLG are the draws here; ETA late 2019.
38) Touki Toussaint, RHP, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 22, first-round pick by Diamondbacks in 2014; famously electric arm took large step forward in ’18, with 2.38 ERA, 163/53 K/BB in 136 innings in Double-A/Triple-A; fanned 32 in 29 MLB innings with 4.03 ERA; still needs tighter control but fun to watch with mid-90s fastball and crazy-good curve; ETA 2019.
39) Hunter Greene, RHP, Cincinnati Reds, (Grade B+): Age 19, first-round pick in 2017, 4.48 ERA with 89/23 K/BB in 68 innings in Single-A before going down with sore elbow; surgery not needed however; 96-102 mph heat; fastball can be straight but slider and change coming along; dominant in weeks before the injury, still elite if healthy; ETA 2021.
40) Alex Verdugo, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers, (Grade B+): Age 22, second-round pick in 2014, hit .329/.391/.472 in Triple-A, then .260/.327/.377 in 77 MLB AB; polished hitter with enough bat speed to project additional power; not much left to prove at minor league level; should be .280, 20 homer bat at his peak; ETA 2019.
41) Jesus Sanchez, OF, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B+): Age 21, signed in 2014, hit .301/.331/.462 in Single-A but just .214/.300/.327 after moving up to Double-A; scouting reports remain positive; whip-like bat speed and high contact rate should lead to strong averages though he could use more patience; speed and arm fit in right field; ETA 2020.
42) Carter Kieboom, SS, Washington Nationals, (Grade B+): Age 21, first-round pick in 2016, hit .280/.357/.444 with 16 homers, 31 doubles in A/Double-A; stands out for bat speed and growing power; tools solid across the board as well as sound instincts; may wind up at second base but upside should not be underestimated; ETA 2020.
43) Gavin Lux, SS, Los Angeles Dodgers, (Grade B+): Age 21, first-rounder in 2016, hit .324/.399/.514 with 15 homers, 13 steals in Single-A/Double-A; already a polished hitter and added power with maturity; runs very well; probably 2B long term but should be very good there; ETA 2020.
44) Joey Bart, C, San Francisco Giants, (Grade B+): Age 22, first-round pick in 2018 out of Georgia Tech, hit .298/.369/.613 in short-season ball, with 13 homers in just 181 at-bats; college star had strong debut, and no question about power but needs some work with strike zone and defensive polish; we need to see him at higher levels but can be an impact player; ETA 2021.
45) Sean Murphy, C, Oakland Athletics, (Grade B+): Age 24, third-round pick in 2016, hit .288/.358/.498 in Double-A though missed time with hamate injury; solid hitter with good power potential; defense is excellent and will get him to the majors even if bat needs more development time; more short-term value than Joey Bart but ceiling isn’t quite as high, so rank accordingly depending on your context; ETA late 2019.
46) Danny Jansen, C, Toronto Blue Jays, (Grade B+): Age 23, 16th-round pick in 2013, hit .275/.390/.473 in Triple-A, and .247/.347/.32 in 81 MLB at-bats; very strong strike zone judgment helps him get to average power; throwing needs more work, but age and offensive potential auger well for long-term outlook; ETA 2019.
47) Yusniel Diaz, OF, Baltimore Orioles, (Grade B+): Age 22, acquired from Dodgers in Manny Machado deal, hit .285/.392/.449 with 11 homers, 12 steals, 59 walks in 354 at-bats in Double-A; nice approach, draws walks and makes consistent hard contact; still learning to tap his power but crushes on the right day; strong throwing arm and speed give him defensive value; ETA late 2019.
48) Peter Alonso, 1B, New York Mets, (Grade B+): Age 24, second-round pick in 2016, hit .285/.395/.579 with 36 homers in Double-A/Triple-A; dominant campaign boosted industry stock considerably; reputation is that he’s been held back by defensive questions but 70-grade power and patient approach proved impossible to ignore in these days of exit velocity lust; ETA 2019.
49) Jonathan India, 3B, Cincinnati Reds, (Grade B+): Age 22, first-round pick in 2018 (fifth overall), from University of Florida; hit .240/.380/.433 in Rookie ball and Single-A; balanced prospect with good plate discipline and growing power, strong glove at third but can also play short; few weaknesses overall, just needs to play; ETA 2021.
50) Matt Manning, RHP, Detroit Tigers, (Grade B+): Age 21, first-round pick in 2016, 3.29 ERA with 154/51 K/BB in 118 innings between A and Double-A; intimidating at 6’6″ with 92-96 mph heat; curveball is a strikeout pitch, change-up needs more work but has promise; No. 3 starter potential assuming continued command progress and good health; ETA 2021.
51) Andres Gimenez, SS, New York Mets, (Grade B+): Age 20, signed in 2015, hit .281/.347/.409 with 38 steals between Single-A and Double-A; line-drive hitter with mature approach for his age, above-average speed; projects as potent leadoff man, though more power may come in time; glove is also above-average but may move to second base regardless; ETA late 2020.
52) Cristian Pache, OF, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 20, signed in 2015, hit .279/.307/.410 in Single-A and Double-A with nine homers; plus speed, plus throwing arm, and average raw power that can increase further; plate discipline needs work and OBP will be an issue without adjustments; defense is Gold Glove caliber; upside: the 2013-2014 version of Carlos Gomez; ETA 2021.
53) Luis Patino, RHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Age 19, signed in 2016, breakout season in A-ball with 2.16 ERA, 98/24 K/BB, just 65 hits allowed in 83 innings; fastball is 92-98 mph with movement, hard slider, viable curve and change; overpowering in general, but needs more consistent command; No. 2 upside and reputation growing; ETA 2022.
54) DL Hall, LHP, Baltimore Orioles, (Grade B+): Age 20, first-round pick in 2017, 2.10 ERA with a 100/42 K/BB in Low-A; high-K, low-Hit profile with low/mid-90s fastball and plus curve; change-up and control need work but typical for his age; mid-rotation upside; ETA 2022.
55) Ke’Bryan Hayes, 3B, Pittsburgh Pirates, (Grade B+): Age 22, first rounder in 2015, hit .293/.375/.444 in Double-A; 31 doubles; not a home run guy yet but those may come eventually; strong sense for the zone, makes contact, outstanding defender at third base, with plus makeup; ETA 2020.
56) Nolan Jones, 3B, Cleveland Indians, (Grade B+): Age 20, second-rounder in 2016, hit .283/.405/.466 with 19 homers, 89 walks in A-ball; potent left-side power with high strikeout rate but lots of walks and has hit for average so far; glove needs work; ceiling: midway between Kyle and Corey Seager; ETA 2021.
57) Nick Madrigal, 2B, Chicago White Sox, (Grade B+): Age 21, first-rounder in 2018, hit .303/.353/.348 in 155 at-bats in Single-A; incredible bat-to-ball ability with good eye, speed, fine defense, pop to the gaps; won’t need much time; ETA 2020.
58) Luis Garcia, INF, Washington Nationals, (Grade B+): Age 18, hit .298/.336/.406 in Single-A, with 12 steals; not much power yet but extremely young and will get stronger; draws praise for approach, contact, bat speed, as well as defense; do not underestimate; ETA 2021.
59) Josh James, RHP, Houston Astros, (Grade B+): Age 25, obscure prospect a year ago but improved dramatically after sleep apnea treatment and workout program; 3.23 ERA in 114 innings in Double-A/Triple-A, 171/49 K/BB; 29/7 K/BB with 2.35 ERA in 23 innings in majors; fastball up to 100 mph; at his best when mixing in solid slider and change; can start or relieve and dominate in either role; get your sleep study done and get a CPAP; ETA 2019.
60) Isaac Paredes, INF, Detroit Tigers, (Grade B+): Age 19, signed by Cubs out of Mexico, traded to Tigers in 2017; hit .278/.359/.456 with 15 homers, 51 walks, just 76 strikeouts between Single-A and Double-A; very good approach with growing power and youth; shortstop for now but probably a 2B long-term, bat should play anywhere; underrated in general; ceiling: Dan Uggla; ETA 2021.
61) Brusdar Graterol, RHP, Minnesota Twins, (Grade B+): Age 20, posted 2.74 ERA with 107/28 K/BB in 102 innings in Single-A; stayed healthy after previous injury history; nasty slider, heavy heater in mid-90s, inconsistent change-up has potential; No. 3 starter upside with bullpen the backup plan; ETA 2021.
62) Adrian Morejon, LHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Age 19, signed out of Cuba in 2016, 3.30 ERA with 70/24 K/BB in 63 innings in Single-A; 95-mph fastball, plus change-up and developing curve; much more polish than most pitchers his age; main concern is workload/durability; No. 3 starter potential; ETA 2021.
63) Jon Duplantier, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks, (Grade B+): Age 24, third-rounder in 2016, 2.69 ERA in 67 innings in Double-A with 68/28 K/BB; dominance dates back to college with fastball up to 95 mph, plus slider and curve; strong mound presence; main problem is health; No. 3 starter talent but long track record of injuries knocks down his stock for many evaluators; ETA 2019.
64) Luis Robert, OF, Chicago White Sox, (Grade B+): Age 21, high-profile signing from Cuba, .269/.333/.360 in A-ball; stole 15 bases but injuries limited him to 186 at-bats and inhibited performance; no homers but scouts see considerable bat speed and power potential, projecting 20/20 possibilities; high ceiling but there’s risk; ETA 2020.
65) Ryan Mountcastle, 3B, Baltimore Orioles, (Grade B+): Age 21, hit .297/.341/.464 with 13 homers in Double-A; pure hitter with growing power, should contribute high batting averages; main problem is weak defense and poor arm; may move to left field; ETA 2020.
66) Nolan Gorman, 3B, St. Louis Cardinals, (Grade B+): Age 18, first-rounder in ’18, hit .350/.443/.664 in Rookie ball then .202/.280/.426 after moving up to Single-A, acceptable given that he was just weeks out of high school; massive power, 70-grade, with patient approach; might stick at third base but bat will play anywhere; ETA 2022.
67) Jared Kelenic, OF, Seattle Mariners, (Grade B+): Age 19, Mets first-rounder in ’18, traded to Mariners, hit .286/.371/.468 with 15 steals in Rookie ball; scouts project batting average, power, and speed, the complete package; main question is center defense plus simple need to prove out in full-season ball; ETA 2022.
68) Vidal Brujan, 2B, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B+): Age 20, switch-hitter with speed, swiped 55 bases in Low-A with .320/.403/.459 slash line, 63 walks; gap power may increase; impressive leadoff potential though needs to get more efficient with the stealing (caught 19 times); ETA 2021.
69) Ronaldo Hernandez, C, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B+): Age 21, hit .284/.339/.494 with 21 homers in Low-A; needs to improve receiving but has arm and athleticism to stick with more reps; bat looks very good especially for power; ETA late 2021.
70) Dakota Hudson, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals, (Grade B+): Age 24, first-rounder in 2016, posted 2.50 ERA in 112 innings in Triple-A with 87/38 K/BB, then 2.63 ERA in 27 innings in MLB; stands out for heavy sinker and hard slider, high ground-ball rate; set-up man for now but may start eventually; ETA 2019.
71) Christin Stewart, OF, Detroit Tigers, (Grade B+): Age 25, hit .263/.363/.488 with 25 homers in Triple-A, then .267/.375/.417 in 60 MLB at-bats; power and patience legitimate; older and with less athleticism than other guys in this range but a proven, consistent producer for power; ETA 2019.
72) Matthew Liberatore, LHP, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B+): Age 19, first-round pick in ’18, 1.38 ERA with 37/13 K/BB in 33 innings in Rookie ball; low-90s fastball, plus curve, slider and change-up too; early performance very good; No. 3 starter projection, perhaps more, but will need innings, etc.; should move up lists quickly as others graduate; ETA 2023.
73) Brady Singer, RHP, Kansas City Royals, (Grade B+): Age 22, first-round pick in 2018 from University of Florida, didn’t pitch in pro ball for workload reasons; successful college ace due to fastball/slider combo, will need reps for change-up but not expected to be long-term issue; No. 3 starter upside; ETA 2021.
74) Jordan Groshans, SS-3B, Toronto Blue Jays, (Grade B+): Age 19, first-round pick in 2018, hit .296/.353/.446 in Rookie ball; relatively polished hitter with projectable power in 6’4″, 190-pound body; likely a third baseman long term and a good one; maximal outcome comp: mixture of Ryan Zimmerman, David Wright, and Nick Castellanos; ETA 2022.
75) Logan Allen, LHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Age 21, 2.54 ERA in 149 innings, 151/51 K/BB in Double-A/Triple-A; low-90s fastball, very good change-up, breaking stuff decent by consensus but still seems underrated to me; viewed as possible No. 4 starter by many but that may be selling him short; ETA 2019.
76) Bryse Wilson, RHP, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 21, 3.44 ERA with 143/36 K/BB in 126 innings between Single-A, Double-A, and Triple-A; often overlooked in pitching-rich Braves system but still an elite prospect; 92- to 96-mph fastball, strong slider and workable change; mid-rotation potential but would also be fine reliever; ETA 2019.
77) Victor Victor Mesa, OF, Miami Marlins, (Grade B+): Age 22, signed out of Cuba for over $5 million as Marlins rebuild farm system; scouts love his speed, defense, arm strength but opinions on the bat are mixed, particularly with power; watch spring reports closely for read on ETA.
78) Taylor Widener, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks, (Grade B): Age 24, 2.75 ERA with 176/43 K/BB, 99 hits allowed in 137 innings in Double-A; often overlooked but performance on-par with other elite prospects and he’s got enough stuff with low-90s, reliable slider, change-up, solid command to be a “sneak up on us” type; ETA 2019.
79) Jazz Chisholm, SS, Arizona Diamondbacks, (Grade B): Age 21, hit .272/.328/.513 with 25 homers, 17 steals in Single-A; exciting to watch with power/speed mix; broad-based fantasy potential but has strike zone issues to address at higher levels (149 whiffs against 39 walks); high risk, high reward; ETA late 2020.
80) Jonathan Loaisiga, RHP, New York Yankees, (Grade B): Age 24, 2.89 ERA with 67/8 K/BB in 56 innings in Single-A/Double-A; 5.11 ERA in 25 MLB innings with 33/12 K/BB; can start or relieve; mid-90s fastball with curve, change that flash plus; probably opens in Triple-A; has durability concerns; ETA 2019.
81) Tony Santillan, RHP, Cincinnati Reds, (Grade B): Age 21, second-round pick in 2015, posted 3.08 ERA in 149 innings between Single-A and Double-A, with 134/38 K/BB; fastball in mid-90s, and secondaries erratic but command took large step forward in ’18; don’t overlook him; ETA 2020.
82) J.B. Bukauskas, RHP, Houston Astros, (Grade B): Age 22, first-round pick in 2017, posted 2.14 ERA at five levels (finishing in Double-A) with 71/24 K/BB and just one homer allowed in 59 innings; overpowering with fastball and slider, change has progressed as well; future role remains unclear but talent obvious; ETA 2020.
83) Daulton Varsho, C, Arizona Diamondbacks, (Grade B): Age 22, comp-round pick in 2017, hit .286/.363/.451 in Single-A, with 11 homers, 19 steals in 304 at-bats while missing time with hamate injury; very athletic for a catcher; defense underrated and he has hit quite well so far; ETA late 2020.
84) Ryan Weathers, LHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade B): Age 19, first-round pick in ’18, 3.44 ERA in 18 innings, 18/4 K/BB between Rookie ball and Single-A; extremely polished for his age, working all quadrants with solid fastball, curve, change; can make older hitters look foolish; ETA 2021.
85) Drew Waters, OF, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B): Age 20, second-round pick in ’17 hit .293/.343/.476 in Single-A with nine homers, 23 steals; switch-hitter with plus speed and growing power, but needs tighter strike zone to be a leadoff man; ETA late 2021.
86) Alec Bohm, 3B, Philadelphia Phillies, (Grade B): Age 22, first-round pick in ’17, hit .224/.314/.290 in 107 at-bats in New York-Penn League; disappointing but scouting reports remain solid; expected to hit for both power and average; certainly has the physical tools to do it; ETA late 2021.
87) Dustin May, RHP, Los Angeles Dodgers, (Grade B): Age 19, third rounder in 2016, 3.39 ERA with 122/29 K/BB in 133 innings in Single-A/Double-A; heavy sinking fastball in mid-90s, mixed with curve, change, cutter; unusually good command from a 6’6″ pitcher; ETA 2020.
88) Brandon Lowe, 2B, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B): Age 24, hit .297/.391/.558 in Triple-A then .233/.324/.450 in 129 AB in majors; still retains rookie eligibility; power/patience seem entirely legitimate, and batting average may creep up eventually; should be solid regular; ETA 2019.
89) Miguel Amaya, C, Chicago Cubs, (Grade B): Age 19, hit .256/.349/.403 with 12 homers in A-ball; good defender who could be excellent in time; power took a step forward and he controls zone reasonably, giving breakout potential as a prospect; ETA 2021.
90) Corbin Martin, RHP, Houston Astros, (Grade B): Age 23, second-round pick in 2017, 2.51 ERA with 122/35 K/BB, just 88 hits allowed in 122 innings in Single-A/Double-A; low-90s heater with strong command of curve, slider, change; mid-rotation potential but easy to overlook in deep system; ETA 2020.
91) Hans Crouse, RHP, Texas Rangers, (Grade B): Age 20, second rounder in 2017, 2.47 ERA in 55 innings in Single-A, 62/19 K/BB, just 43 hits allowed; tops out at 98-99 mph, also has plus slider; off-speed stuff needs more work but expected to improve; could leap up the list as workload established; ETA 2021.
92) Franklin Perez, RHP, Detroit Tigers, (Grade B): Age 21, came over from Astros in 2017 Justin Verlander trade; missed most of 2018 with lat strain and shoulder soreness; mid-90s fastball with plus curve and solid control when healthy; potential No. 3 starter; ETA 2021.
93) Estevan Florial, OF, New York Yankees, (Grade B): Age 21, hit .283/.354/.361 with 16 steals in 294 at-bats in Single-A, but season shortened by hamate injury; exciting speed with more power than the SLG% implies, and swing can look raw; high-ceiling tools with commensurate risk; ETA 2021.
94) Garrett Hampson, INF, Colorado Rockies, (Grade B): Age 24, hit .311/.382/.462 with 36 steals in Triple-A, .275/.386/.400 in 40 MLB at-bats; draws walks, steals bases, can surprise with occasional power, and versatile; ETA 2019.
95) Nico Hoerner, SS, Chicago Cubs, (Grade B): Age 21, first rounder in 2018 from Stanford, hit .327/.450/.571 in 49 AB between Rookie ball and Single-A; very impressive in Arizona Fall League; excellent plate discipline with touches of speed and power; ETA 2021.
96) Griffin Canning, RHP, Los Angeles Angels, (Grade B): Age 22, second rounder in 2017, 1.97 ERA with 49/19 K/BB in 46 innings in Double-A, but 5.49, 64/22 with 68 hits in 59 innings in Triple-A; more human at the higher level; fastball 93-94 mph, full arsenal with curve, slider, change; throws strikes but could improve location; mid-rotation potential; ETA late 2019.
97) Nathaniel Lowe, 1B, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B): Age 23, 13th-round pick in 2016, broke out in ’18 with .330/.416/.568 with 27 homers, 68 walks, 90 whiffs between Double-A/Triple-A; altered swing to add loft, tap strength and power while maintaining strike zone command; ETA 2019.
98) Michael Chavis, 3B, Boston Red Sox, (Grade B): Age 23, first rounder in 2014, missed 80 games with PED suspension, but hit .298/.381/.538 in Double-A/Triple-A after returning; impact power with gradually improving approach; bat looks good but glove problematic; ETA 2019.
99) Julio Pablo Martinez, OF, Texas Rangers, (Grade B): Age 22, signed out of Cuba in 2018, hit .252/.351/.436 in Northwest League, with 11 steals, eight homers in 234 at-bats; lefty hitter with speed, patience, and more power than typical for a guy who is just 5’9″; ETA 2021.
100) Trevor Larnach, OF, Minnesota Twins, (Grade B): Age 21, first rounder in 2018 from Oregon State, hit .303/.390/.500 in Rookie ball and Single-A; strong strike zone judgment with plenty of bat speed and power after retooling swing in college; could advance more rapidly than many players with more press; ETA 2021.
Beyond the Top 100 – MLB Team Sleepers
Here are some prospect sleepers to consider for fantasy players working within deep farm system contexts.
The main idea is to identify minor-league prospects who are not currently listed on most aggregate top 100 prospect lists but who have breakout potential within the next two or three years.
Arizona Diamondbacks: Andy Yerzy, C; Emilio Vargas, RHP
Atlanta Braves: CJ Alexander, 3B; Huascar Ynoa, RHP
Baltimore Orioles: Adam Hall, SS; Brenan Hanifee, RHP
Boston Red Sox: Brandon Howlett, 3B; Kutter Crawford, RHP
Chicago Cubs: Cole Roederer, OF; Yovanny Cruz, RHP
Chicago White Sox: Luis Gonzalez, OF; Jimmy Lambert, RHP
Cincinnati Reds: Mike Siani, OF; James Marinan, RHP
Cleveland Indians: Brayan Rocchio, SS; Luis Oviedo, RHP
Colorado Rockies: Grant Lavigne, 1B; Justin Lawrence, RHP
Detroit Tigers: Wenceel Perez, SS; Elvin Rodriguez, RHP
Houston Astros: Luis Santana, SS; Jayson Schroeder, RHP
Kansas City Royals: Kyle Isbel, OF; Yefri Del Rosario, RHP
Los Angeles Angels: D’Shawn Knowles, OF; Patrick Sandoval, LHP
Los Angeles Dodgers: Miguel Vargas, 3B; Edwin Uceta, RHP
Miami Marlins: Jose Devers, SS; Zac Gallen, RHP
Milwaukee Brewers: Je’Von Ward, OF; Zack Brown, RHP
Minnesota Twins: Luis Arraez, INF; Jordan Balazovic, RHP
New York Mets: Shervyen Newton, SS; Simeon Woods-Richardson, RHP
New York Yankees: Antonio Cabello, OF; Roansy Contreras, RHP
Oakland Athletics: Jameson Hannah, OF; Brian Howard, RHP
Philadelphia Phillies: Luis Garcia, SS; David Parkinson, LHP
Pittsburgh Pirates: Calvin Mitchell, OF; Braxton Ashcraft, RHP
San Diego Padres: Xavier Edwards, SS; Pedro Avila, RHP
San Francisco Giants: Marco Luciano, SS; Logan Webb, RHP
Seattle Mariners: Dom Thompson-Williams, OF; Erik Swanson, RHP
St. Louis Cardinals: Dylan Carlson, OF; Johan Oviedo, RHP
Tampa Bay Rays: Moises Gomez, OF; Resly Linares, LHP
Texas Rangers: Jonathan Ornelas, INF; Yerry Rodriguez, RHP
Toronto Blue Jays: Samad Taylor, 2B; Hector Perez, RHP
Washington Nationals: Israel Pineda, C; Jake Irvin, RHP
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Post by Cubs GM (Scott B) on Feb 15, 2019 10:44:22 GMT -5
200. Monte Harrison, OF, Miami Marlins
Age: 23 Height: 6-3 Weight: 228 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 65 FLD: 50 HIT: 40 PWR: 60 RUN: 60
Stats (AA)
Slash: .240/.316/.399 2B: 20 HR: 19 RBI: 48 SB: 28
Harrison was one of the key players acquired from the Brewers a year ago in the major trade that sent NL MVP Christian Yelich to the Milwaukee Brewers. He’s a four-tool player that has a chance to be All-Star caliber, if, and only if, he figures out a way to hit — his only questionable tool. He had a dismal first-year slash line in the Marlins’ farm system and really struggled against good pitches, but did end up hitting 19 home runs and stealing 28 bases. His stock went up some during the Arizona Fall League, where he got on base over 38 percent of the time and was 4-for-4 in stolen base attempts.
199. Shane Baz, RHP, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 19 Height: 6-3 Weight: 190 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 55 CT/SLI: 55 CH: 40 CTL: 45 CMND: 40
Stats (Rookie League)
W-L: 4-5 ERA: 4.47 IP: 52.1 H: 56 BB: 29 SO: 59
Baz was part of the prospect package the Rays received in the Chris Archer trade last summer. He has a fastball that sits at 94-95 mph with heavy sinking action, and he shows flashes of above-average breaking balls with both his curve and cutter/slider. His changeup is his fourth pitch and still has a ways to go. His delivery is clean and deceptive, and he’s a scout’s dream with his size and raw stuff; now we’ll just have to see if he can get results that match his outstanding tools as he continues to develop.
198. Zac Houston, RHP, Detroit Tigers
Age: 24 Height: 6-5 Weight: 250 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CH: 50 SLI: 45 CB: 40 CTL: 40 CMND: 45
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 1-2 ERA: 1.63 IP: 55.1 H: 28 BB: 25 SO: 80
You want a sleeper? Here he is. He’s got a heavy-sink mid-90s fastball and a hard, late-biting slider. Everything else he has is fringe or below right now. But considering that he punched out 80 hitters in 55.1 innings while allowing only 28 hits, I’ll overlook the 25 walks and give him a chance to be a 6th- or 7th-inning reliever.
197. Israel Pineda, C, Washington Nationals
Age: 18 Height: 5-11 Weight: 192 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 45 HIT: 50 PWR: 45 RUN: 40
Stats (A)
Slash: .273/.341/.388 2B: 7 HR: 4 RBI: 24
Pineda is turning heads with his leadership behind the plate, and although his defense is graded slightly below average, he does have a plus arm. It’s the bat, though, that has scouts putting him on their “follow” lists.
196. Alex Faedo, RHP, Detroit Tigers
Age: 23 Height: 6-5 Weight: 230 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 50 SLI: 55 CH: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 40
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 5-10 ERA: 4.02 IP: 121 H: 103 BB: 35 SO: 110
Faedo profiles as a back-of-the-rotation innings eater. He has a 91-93 mph fastball with a plus slider at times, but it needs to get more consistent. He also has a changeup that he needs to soften. He hasn’t developed as quickly as the team hoped, and has shown some regression since being drafted. This will be an important year for him as he tries to bounce back and regain the stuff he had at the University of Florida.
195. Nick Heath, OF, Kansas City Royals
Age: 25 Height: 6-1 Weight: 190 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 50 HIT: 50 PWR: 35 RUN: 65
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .274/.376/.358 2B: 11 HR: 2 RBI: 27 SB: 39
My favorite candy bar is the Heath Bar, but that has nothing to do with Nick. Heath made this list after an impressive Arizona Fall League, where he slashed .338/.427/.442/.869 with 13 stolen bases. Some players come on late, and Heath could be one of them. His defense in center field and his blazing speed are at least going to give him a chance.
194. Corey Ray, OF, Milwaukee Brewers
Age: 24 Height: 6-0 Weight: 195 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 40 FLD: 45 HIT: 40 PWR: 60 RUN: 70
Stats (AA)
Slash: .239/.323/.477 2B: 32 HR: 27 RBI: 74 SB: 37
You have to love his speed and power combination, but after that it’s a struggle. He’s a below-average fielder with a below-average arm, and there is a real question if he’s going to hit. Still, based on his tools alone, we should show as much patience as possible.
193. Jonathan Hernandez, RHP, Texas Rangers
Age: 22 Height: 6-2 Weight: 177 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 60 CB: 45 CH: 50 CTL: 40 CMND: 40
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 8-6 ERA: 3.63 IP: 121.1 H: 95 BB: 53 SO: 134
Hernandez’s velocity spiked last season, hitting 97-99 mph at times, with good arm-side run. His slider is an out pitch, and his changeup has gotten better and now has good deception. He still needs to improve his control and command, but if he does, he should be a solid back-of-the-rotation starter when fully developed.
192. Shervyen Newton, INF, New York Mets
Age: 19 Height: 6-4 Weight: 180 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 45 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .280/.408/.449 2B: 16 HR: 5 RBI: 41 SB: 4
Newton is an athletic switch-hitting infielder with lightning bat speed, quick hands and legitimate power. He already knows how to work a count and draw walks as shown by his impressive .408 on-base percentage.
191. Framber Valdez, LHP, Houston Astros
Age: 25 Height: 5-11 Weight: 176 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CB: 60 CTL: 45 CMND: 40
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 6-5 ERA: 4.11 IP: 103 H: 100 BB: 32 SO: 129
Valdez has a 92-95 mph fastball, with good sink on the two-seamer and, like most Astros pitchers, good ride on the four-seamer, the better to get on top of the launch-angle hitters. Valdez also shows a wicked curveball, which can go straight down or, at times, act as a slurve. He’ll have a chance to compete for a back-of-the-rotation starting job with the Astros this spring.
190. Sam Hentges, LHP, Cleveland Indians
Age: 22 Height: 6-6 Weight: 248 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 60 CH: 50 CTL: 40 CMND: 40
Stats (A)
W-L: 6-6 ERA: 3.27 IP: 118.1 H: 114 BB: 53 SO: 122
Hentges has a strong physical frame, but it works against him when it comes to the ability to repeat his delivery and release point — which in turn hurts his control and command of his pitches. Hentges has a 94-96 mph heater with a plus-plus curveball (when it’s working) and a usable changeup.
189. Kyle Funkhouser, RHP, Detroit Tigers
Age: 24 Height: 6-2 Weight: 220 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 55 CH: 55 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 4-7 ERA: 3.96 IP: 97.2 H: 96 BB: 49 SO: 96
Funkhouser was shut down last year with an elbow injury, but was able to get by without surgery. His mid-90s fastball, along with the potential of two plus secondary pitches in his slider and changeup, give him a chance to succeed — if he can figure out how to improve the command and control of all of his pitches and stay away from the injury list.
188. Cole Roederer, OF, Chicago Cubs
Age: 19 Height: 6-0 Weight: 176 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 50 HIT: 45 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats
Did not play pro ball
Roederer was the Cubs’ supplemental second-round pick this past year out of California’s Hart High School, and the team is excited about his future. He’s a decent center fielder with average running speed, but it’s his power at the plate that caught Chicago’s eye: He profiles out to be a 20-home-run center fielder.
187. Michael King, RHP, New York Yankees
Age: 23 Height: 6-3 Weight: 210
Scouting Grades
FB: 50 SLI: 45 CH: 50 CT: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
W-L: 11-5 ERA: 1.79 IP: 161.1 H: 118 BB: 29 SO: 152
King arrives at Yankees camp as the eighth starting pitcher on their depth chart, after Jonathan Loaisiga and Domingo German, but certainly on the team’s radar. King won’t wow you with overpowering stuff, but he knows how to pitch and can live at the bottom of the strike zone with a two-seam fastball, which he has excellent command of. His cutter is key to his success, and his changeup is important in mixing his stuff to keep hitters off balance.
Kolby Allard (Geoff Burke / USA TODAY Sports)
186. Kolby Allard, LHP, Atlanta Braves
Age: 21 Height: 6-1 Weight: 190 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 50 CB: 50 CH: 55 CTL: 50 CMND: 50
Stats (AAA)
W-L: 6-4 ERA: 2.72 IP: 112.1 H: 102 BB: 34 SO: 89
Allard has a clean delivery and solid stuff across the board, including an average fastball, curveball (which flashes above average at times) and above average change-up. His command and control are his calling card, and he profiles as a back-of-the-rotation starter.
185. Willi Castro, INF, Detroit Tigers
Age: 21 Height: 6-1 Weight: 165 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 60 HIT: 40 PWR: 45 RUN: 55
Stats (AA/AAA)
Slash: .264/.315/.392 2B: 29 HR: 9 SB: 18
Castro is a very good defensive shortstop with above-average range to both sides, soft hands, good footwork and an above-average arm. He has a long way to go offensively, and his bat will determine whether he ends up as an everyday player or a backup.
184. Tyler Nevin, 3B, Colorado Rockies
Age: 21 Height: 6-4 Weight: 203 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 45 HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 40
Stats (A)
Slash: .328/.386/.503 2B: 25 HR: 13 RBI: 62 SB: 4
Tyler is the son of former major leaguer Phil Nevin, and has the same type of impact bat that his Dad had in the minor leagues. Nevin has well above-average bat speed with loud sweet-spot contact and above-average power. In time, he’ll likely have to move off of third base to either first or left field.
183. Jose Suarez, LHP, Los Angeles Angels
Age: 21 Height: 5-10 Weight: 170 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 45 CB: 45 CH: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
W-L: 3-6 ERA: 3.92 IP: 117 H: 121 BB: 44 SO: 142
The Angels’ scouting department is convinced he’ll be a solid No. 4 starter for them in time. He’s got a solid 93-94 mph fastball and a really good deceptive changeup. His 12-6 curveball is inconsistent, but when it’s on it’s an above-average pitch. He’s got a simple, clean delivery that allows him to repeat his release point.
182. Blake Rutherford, OF, Chicago White Sox
Age: 21 Height: 6-3 Weight: 198 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 50
Stats (A)
Slash: .293/.345/.436 2B: 25 HR: 7 RBI: 78 SB: 15
Rutherford was once a top prospect in the Yankees organization, but has since faded. He’s got mostly average tools across the board, but in an era of sluggers, he just doesn’t have the game power needed. The White Sox think the power will come in time, and it might. In the meantime, he’s more of a fourth outfielder.
181. Jhoan Duran, RHP, Minnesota Twins
Age: 21 Height: 6-5 Weight: 175 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 45 CH: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 40
Stats (A)
W-L: 7-5 ERA: 3.75 IP: 100.2 H: 88 BB: 38 SO: 115
Who doesn’t love a power arm? Duran throws a fastball in the high 90s with great riding life on the four-seamer, and a two-seamer that he throws almost as a split-finger: hard (at 89-91 mph) and with great sinking action. His slider needs work, however, and his changeup needs better arm speed.
180. Nicky Lopez, INF, Kansas City Royals
Age: 23 Height: 5-11 Weight: 175 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 45 RUN: 55
Stats (AA/AAA)
Slash: .308/.382/.417 2B: 14 HR: 9 RBI: 53 SB: 15
Here comes another Whit Merrifield-esque, under-the-radar Royals infielder. Lopez has an intriguing blend of power and speed, both of which should play thanks to his advanced bat potential. He’s not the type of prospect people will be talking about, because he doesn’t have those special tools. But he has the makeup, character and IQ to make up for it.
179. Brailyn Marquez, LHP, Chicago Cubs
Age: 20 Height: 6-4 Weight: 188 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 SLI: 45 CH: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 40
Stats (A)
W-L: 1-4 ERA: 3.13 IP: 54.2 H: 53 BB: 16 SO: 59
Marquez throws 95-97 mph from the left side with a work-in-progress breaking ball and changeup. He does not have command of his pitches yet but with mechanical adjustments and a more consistent release point that should improve over the next year or two. You certainly can’t argue the arm.
178. Freudis Nova, INF, Houston Astros
Age: 19 Height: 6-1 Weight: 180 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 60
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .308/.331/.466 2B: 3 HR: 6 RBI: 28 SB: 9
The Astros farm system is so loaded that Nova sometimes gets overlooked. However, Nova can really hit for a teenager and has surprising raw power. He’s also an above-average shortstop with solid range to both sides, soft hands, quick feet and a strong throwing arm. He needs to learn how to work a count and have a better understanding of all aspects of the strike zone.
Nick Gordon (Kim Klement / USA TODAY Sports)
177. Nick Gordon, SS, Minnesota Twins
Age: 23 Height: 6-0 Weight: 160 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 40 PWR: 50 RUN: 50
Stats (AA/AAA)
Slash: .248/.298/.355 2B: 23 HR: 7 SB: 30
Gordon’s stock has been falling at a dramatic pace because of his hitting struggles, but there is no discounting that his tools are still good enough. He has not improved his defense at shortstop, and Royce Lewis is going to zoom right by him on the Twins’ organizational depth chart, which means he might have to move to second base. This will be a critical year for his development.
176. Kristian Robinson, OF, Arizona Diamondbacks
Age: 18 Height: 6-3 Weight: 190 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 45 HIT: 50 PWR: 60 RUN: 60
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .279/.363/.428 2B: 12 HR: 7 SB: 12
I think Robinson has a chance to be a special center fielder and a complete player, thanks to some really electric tools — including his arm, running speed, glove, range and power. He profiles as a future All-Star center fielder if everything falls into place and, like everyone, if he hits. He’s an exciting player, but keep in mind he’s a high-risk, high-reward type of long-term prospect.
175. Simeon Woods Richardson, RHP, New York Mets
Age: 18 Height: 6-3 Weight: 210 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CB: 55 CH: 50 CMND: 45
Stats (Rookie)
W-L: 1-0 ERA: 1.56 IP: 17.1 H: 15 BB: 4 SO: 26
Richardson throws an in-your-face, here-I-come 96 mph cheddar cheese fastball that comes in with blazing four-seam nastiness. His over-the-top curveball is a plus pitch, and the changeup has deception and late sink. You have to love his stuff and aggressiveness.
174. Luis Rengifo, INF, Los Angeles Angels
Age: 21 Height: 5-10 Weight: 170 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 40 RUN: 55
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
Slash: .299/.399/.452 2B: 30 HR: 7 RBI: 64 SB: 41
The Angels rave about the breakout year Rengifo had last season, when he got on base at a .399 clip and stole 41 bases. He’s a strong athlete, and the Halos are impressed with his hard contact rate and his ability as a switch-hitter to own both gaps on both sides of the plate. His best position will probably be second base when it’s all said and done.
173. Cole Tucker, SS, Pittsburgh Pirates
Age: 22 Height: 6-3 Weight: 205 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 65 FLD: 50 HIT: 45 PWR: 40 RUN: 55
Stats (AA)
Slash: .259/.333/.356 2B: 21 HR: 5 RBI: 44 SB: 35
Tucker has long arms, which gives him trouble when facing good fastballs inside. However, when he gets extended, he’s got legitimate doubles power. He’s an above-average runner and it translates on the basepaths.
172. William Contreras, C, Atlanta Braves
Age: 21 Height: 6-0 Weight: 180 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 50 PWR: 50 RUN: 40
Stats (A)
Slash: .285/.347/.436 2B: 24 HR: 11 RBI: 49 SB: 1
Contreras is the brother of Cubs catcher Willson Contreras. Like his brother, he has a gun for an arm, but doesn’t always get good enough release times. He’s definitely going to hit once he figures out how to go the other way. He profiles as a 15-20 home run type.
171. Geraldo Perdomo, INF, Arizona Diamondbacks
Age: 19 Height: 6-2 Weight: 183 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 40 RUN: 55
Stats (Rookie/A)
Slash: .322/.438/.460 2B: 7 HR: 4 RBI: 24 SB: 24
Perdomo is an athletic shortstop with soft hands, quick feet and a strong, accurate arm from the hole. Offensively he has a solid swing, with good bat speed, and his above-average arm and baserunning instincts make him a good table-setting prospect.
170. Jordan Balazovic, RHP, Minnesota Twins
Age: 20 Height: 6-4 Weight: 176 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 50 CH: 55 CB: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
Stats (A)
W-L: 7-3 ERA: 3.94 IP: 61.2 H: 54 BB: 18 SO: 78
Balazovic punched out over 11 batters per 9 innings last year thanks to his moving fastball and elite changeup. His curveball is average, giving him three solid pitches. He is a head-snapper, which causes some interesting deception, and he continues to trend in the right direction.
169. Joe Palumbo, LHP, Texas Rangers
Age: 24 Height: 6-1 Weight: 170 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 55 CH: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 40
Stats (Rookie/A/AA)
W-L: 2-4 ERA: 2.78 IP: 45.1 H: 35 BB: 10 SO: 59
Palumbo is a strike-thrower with an effective low-90s fastball, thanks to deception in his cross-body delivery. His curveball is a plus pitch when it’s working, and his changeup has good fade and is continuing to develop. He profiles as a back-of-the-rotation starter.
168. Austin Beck, OF, Oakland Athletics
Age: 20 Height: 6-1 Weight: 205 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 45 PWR: 50 RUN: 55
Stats (A)
Slash: .296/.335/.383 2B: 29 HR: 2 RBI: 60 SB: 8
Beck is a very intriguing prospect because of his strength, athleticism and running speed. He’s a solid defensive center fielder with a right fielder’s strong arm. His bat will determine his future and he certainly made great strides this past year when he led the Midwest League in hits, although he does have holes at the plate. He shows off his raw power in batting practice, but it hasn’t translated to games just yet, though I expect it to within a year or two.
167. Luiz Gohara, LHP, Atlanta Braves
Age: 22 Height: 6-3 Weight: 266 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 SLI: 60 CH: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 3-5 ERA: 4.81 IP: 58 H: 59 BB: 18 SO: 59
Gohara has yet to live up to his raw stuff and potential, mainly because of nagging injuries. He’s had shoulder, ankle and elbow problems in the past. However, when healthy and at his best, there’s no doubt he could come out of nowhere and become a big story — his stuff can be that good.
166. Everson Pereira, OF, New York Yankees
Age: 17 Height: 6-0 Weight: 192 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 50 HIT: 50 PWR: 50 RUN: 55
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .263/.322/.389 2B: 8 HR: 3 RBI: 26 SB: 3
The Yankees’ newly thinned-out farm system has reason to get excited about Pereira, who was their biggest international expenditure last summer. While he doesn’t have any tools that blow you away, he looks like a pure center fielder who’s going to hit, with both speed and power in his game.
165. Mark Vientos, SS/3B, New York Mets
Age: 19 Height: 6-4 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 40 HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 40
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .287/.389/.489 2B: 12 HR: 11 RBI: 52 SB: 1
Vientos made the move from shortstop to third base this year and had a difficult time adjusting to the hot corner. He certainly has plenty of arm, but it will take him some time to become adequate at the position. But it’s his bat that gets him on this list, and his ability to get on base. He’s got above-average power and profiles as a 20-25 home run middle-of-the-order type when fully developed.
164. JoJo Romero, LHP, Philadelphia Phillies
Age: 22 Height: 6-0 Weight: 190 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 50 CH: 55 CB: 50 SLI: 40 CT: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
Stats (AA)
W-L: 7-6 ERA: 3.80 IP: 106.2 H: 97 BB: 41 SO: 100
Romero has both a two- and four-seam fastball and can get a first-pitch strike with both of them. His two-seamer has good sink, and his changeup is his best secondary pitch, though he does have an average curveball. He fields his position well and does a good job of holding runners. He projects as a No. 3 or No. 4 starter or perhaps a set-up reliever.
163. Joey Wentz, LHP, Atlanta Braves
Age: 21 Height: 6-5 Weight: 211 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 50 CH: 60 CB: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A)
W-L: 3-4 ERA: 2.28 IP: 67 H: 49 BB: 24 SO: 53
Wentz is another in the long list of Braves left-handed pitching prospects. He has an 89-92 mph fastball and an above-average dead-fish changeup, along with a quality curveball. Wentz looks like he’ll be a No. 3 or 4 starter, and will probably be used as a trade chip at some point in the next couple of years.
Lewis Thorpe (Geoff Burke / USA TODAY Sports)
162. Lewis Thorpe, LHP, Minnesota Twins
Age: 23 Height: 6-1 Weight: 167 Bats: R Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 50 SLI: 50 CB: 45 CH: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 50
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 8-7 ERA: 3.54 IP: 129.2 H: 125 BB: 36 SO: 157
Thorpe has a low- to mid-90s fastball and a solid changeup with good fade. His slider has tight spin at times, and his 12-6 curve is inconsistent but usable. His 157 strikeouts in only 129.2 innings certainly raise eyebrows, and he’s probably a back-end starter or long reliever at the very least.
161. Wenceel Perez, INF, Detroit Tigers
Age: 19 Height: 5-11 Weight: 171 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 60 PWR: 45 RUN: 60
Stats (Rookie/A)
Slash: .312/.363/.429 2B: 12 HR: 3 RBI: 22 SB: 13
The Tigers love his bat and think he’s eventually going to become one of their best prospects. He has above-average bat speed, is short and quick to the ball, and has quick hands with strong forearms. Perez is an above-average runner and overall athlete.
160. Brock Burke, LHP, Texas Rangers
Age: 22 Height: 6-4 Weight: 201 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 55 CH: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 9-6 ERA: 3.08 IP: 137.1 H: 124 BB: 44 SO: 158
The Rangers picked up Burke in their offseason three-way trade with the Athletics and Rays that sent Jurickson Profar to Oakland. Coming over from Tampa Bay, Burke could be a real sleeper in that deal. The southpaw has a low-90s fastball with an above-average curve. He’ll need to improve both his command and control of his pitches if he wants to reach his potential.
159. Mike Siani, OF, Cincinnati Reds
Age: 19 Height: 6-1 Weight: 181 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 50 PWR: 45 RUN: 55
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .288/.351/.386 2B: 6 HR: 2 RBI: 13 SB: 5
The Reds may have their long-term answer in center field with Siani. He’s not the flashiest player, but he’s solid across the board, with a truly professional approach. However, he’s at least three years away from the majors.
158. Taylor Widener, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks
Age: 24 Height: 6-0 Weight: 195 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 SLI: 50 CH: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (AA)
W-L: 5-8 ERA: 2.75 IP: 137.1 H: 99 BB: 43 SO: 176
The Diamondbacks love his competitiveness on the mound. His fastball is mostly 92-93 with good life, and both his slider and change-up are effective offerings. He doesn’t have a high ceiling, but he should be a serviceable big leaguer.
157. Julio Pablo Martinez, OF, Texas Rangers
Age: 22 Height: 5-9 Weight: 178 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 45 HIT: 40 PWR: 50 RUN: 60
Stats (A)
Slash: .266/.378/.457 2B: 10 HR: 9 SB: 13
Martinez is an average defender in center field, with above-average range and a solid arm. His best tool is his running speed and, for his frame, he has surprising pop and raw power. The question is how much he’ll hit.
156. Cole Winn, RHP, Texas Rangers
Age: 19 Height: 6-2 Weight: 190 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 50 SLI: 45 CH: 50 CTL: 55 CMND: 50
Stats
Did not pitch in pro ball
Winn’s fastball is in the mid-90s, and his best breaking ball is a soft curveball that goes down at a 12-6 angle. He also has a developing slider. The Rangers’ first-round pick in last year’s draft out of Orange Lutheran High School in California, he has a great pitcher’s body and an easy delivery.
155. M.J. Melendez, C, Kansas City Royals
Age: 20 Height: 6-1 Weight: 190 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 40 PWR: 50 RUN: 50
Stats (A)
Slash: .251/.322/.374 2B: 8 HR: 4 RBI: 30 SB: 4
Melendez threw out a staggering 42 percent of attempted base stealers last year thanks to his strong arm and quick release. Defensively he profiles as average overall, still needing some work on his mechanics and framing. He has some holes at the plate, but he does make loud contact at times, and will likely end up with average power.
Daulton Varsho (Mark J. Rebilas / USA TODAY Sports)
154. Daulton Varsho, C, Arizona Diamondbacks
Age: 22 Height: 5-10 Weight: 190 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 45 HIT: 50 PWR: 50 RUN: 55
Stats (Rookie/A)
Slash: .294/.367/.475 2B: 13 HR: 12 RBI: 45 SB: 19
Daulton is the son of Gary Varsho (who played for me briefly when I was GM of the Cincinnati Reds). That certainly seems to have helped him, as he already has a veteran’s approach to hitting and is mechanically sound with a short, quick stroke. He has strong leadership qualities and the energy and enthusiasm you like to see in catchers. However, defensively he does have some work to do if he doesn’t want to change positions.
153. Wil Crowe, RHP, Washington Nationals
Age: 24 Height: 6-2 Weight: 242 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 50 CB: 50 SLI: 50 CH: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
W-L: 11-5 ERA: 3.40 IP: 116.1 H: 104 BB: 48 SO: 94
Crow has average stuff across the board, but knows how to pitch and utilize the weapons he does have. He’s not afraid to pitch inside to right-handed hitters, then use his slider off the plate to get batters to chase. He profiles as a back-of-the-rotation innings eater.
152. Leody Taveras, OF, Texas Rangers
Age: 20 Height: 6-1 Weight: 190 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 55 HIT: 40 PWR: 55 RUN: 60
Stats (A)
Slash: .246/.312/.332 2B: 16 HR: 5 SB: 11
Taveras can play center, and has great range and a strong arm in the outfield. However, his bat could be a problem: He doesn’t barrel the ball up well, and really struggles against quality breaking balls. Still, you can’t argue his athleticism.
151. Justin Dunn, RHP, Seattle Mariners
Age: 23 Height: 6-2 Weight: 184 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 SLI: 55 CB: 45 CH: 45 CTL: 40 CMND: 45
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 2-3 ERA: 2.36 IP: 45.2 H: 43 BB: 15 SO: 51
The Mariners picked up Dunn as the second prospect in the Robinson Canó and Edwin Díaz trade with the Mets. Dunn has a good arm, with a fastball that averages 94 mph. He has good two-seam life that gets him ground balls when he throws to the bottom of the strike zone, and he elevates with a four-seamer that can put hitters away at the top of the zone. He profiles either as a back-end starter or middle reliever.
150. Bryan Abreu, RHP, Houston Astros
Age: 21 Height: 6-1 Weight: 17 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CB: 60 SLI: 40 CH: 40 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A)
W-L: 6-1 ERA: 1.49 IP: 54.1 H: 33 BB: 23 SO: 90
Abreu punched hitters out at a staggering rate of 14.8 per 9 innings thanks to his 95 mph fastball and his 12-6, see-you-later curveball. He also throws a slider and changeup, and as those two pitches improve he’ll be flying up the Astros’ farm system. In addition, the Astros rave about his instincts and baseball IQ.
149. Moises Gomez, OF, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 20 Height: 5-11 Weight: 200 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 50 HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 55
Stats (A)
Slash: .280/.328/.503 2B: 34 HR: 19 RBI: 82 SB: 4
When describing Gomez’s ceiling, Rays evaluators compare him to the Cardinals’ Marcell Ozuna. He can certainly hit a fastball, and he’s coming off an impressive season that included 19 home runs and 82 RBIs with 34 doubles.
148. Seth Beer, 1B/OF, Houston Astros
Age: 22 Height: 6-3 Weight: 195 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 40 HIT: 50 PWR: 70 RUN: 35
Stats (A)
Slash: .304/.389/.496 2B: 14 HR: 12 RBI: 42 SB: 1
The name alone makes you want to have a cold one, and that’s exactly how opposing pitchers will be feeling after they face him. Beer is a legitimate big-league bat who’s going to hit, and hit with power. He’s a well below-average defender, and he can’t run. But he sure can rake.
147. Jeter Downs, 2B, Los Angeles Dodgers
Age: 20 Height: 5-11 Weight: 180 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 55
Stats (A)
Slash: .257/.351/.402 2B: 23 HR: 13 RBI: 47 SB: 37
The Dodgers acquired Downs in the offseason trade that sent Yasiel Puig, Matt Kemp and Alex Wood to the Cincinnati Reds. Downs is an underrated prospect and has the potential to become L.A.’s everyday second baseman. I really like his bat; he has a solid approach and a short, quick stroke. He also has surprising pop and can steal bases at will. This will be one of those under-the-radar pickups that people talk about in three years.
146. Seuly Matias, OF, Kansas City Royals
Age: 20 Height: 6-2 Weight: 204 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 65 FLD: 45 HIT: 40 PWR: 70 RUN: 55
Stats (A)
Slash: .210/.303/.550 2B: 13 HR: 31 RBI: 63 SB: 6
I got to see Matias in the Futures Game, and he put on an absolute show, including an opposite-field home run. He also hit 31 home runs in his first full season. However, his .210 batting average loudly describes the major problem in his game. He must cut down on his strikeouts and put more emphasis on making contact and taking pitches out of the zone. Defensively he’s below average, but he has the strong arm needed to play right field.
145. Triston Casas, 1B/3B, Boston Red Sox
Age: 19 Height: 6-4 Weight: 239 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 45 HIT: 50 PWR: 70 RUN: 40
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .000/.200/.000 2B: 0 HR: 0 RBI: 0 SB: 0
One of my favorite cliché scouting terms is “light tower power,” and that’s exactly what Casas has — and he has it to all fields. The ball flies off his bat with line-drive and lofting power. He does have holes in his swing, though, and is definitely a power-first prospect. Defensively he’s best suited for first base.
144. Heliot Ramos, OF, San Francisco Giants
Age: 19 Height: 6-2 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 40 PWR: 55 RUN: 60
Stats (A)
Slash: .245/.313/.396 2B: 24 HR: 11 RBI: 52 SB: 8
Ramos had a very disappointing season with the bat. Despite four strong tools that are all average or above, it appears the fifth and most important tool, the hit tool, is not developing, which is why he’s spiraling down most prospect lists. He’s still only 19, though, so he still has time to figure it out.
143. Spencer Howard, RHP, Philadelphia Phillies
Age: 22 Height: 6-3 Weight: 205 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 55 CB: 50 CH: 55 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A)
W-L: 9-8 ERA: 4.18 IP: 112 H: 101 BB: 40 SO: 147
Howard has above-average stuff across the board, but late last year his velocity suddenly spiked from the low 90s to the high 90s. Combine that with an above-average slider and changeup and suddenly he has a four-pitch mix that allows him to profile as a mid-rotation starter.
142. Lane Thomas, OF, St. Louis Cardinals
Age: 23 Height: 6-1 Weight: 210 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 45 PWR: 50 RUN: 55
Stats (AA/AAA)
Slash: .264/.333/.489 2B: 23 HR: 27 RBI: 88 SB: 17
Thomas has always had holes at the plate, but he closed some of them last year when he produced his best season to date, hitting 27 home runs. He’s behind a bevy of outfielders in the Cardinals organization, but he’ll certainly get a look this spring. He is solid defensively with a plus arm, and should be making his major-league debut sometime this year.
Lucius Fox (Mark J. Rebilas / USA TODAY Sports)
141. Lucius Fox, SS, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 21 Height: 6-1 Weight: 180 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 45 PWR: 40 RUN: 65
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .268/.351/.341 2B: 20 HR: 3 RBI: 39 SB: 29
Fox has tremendous athleticism and quick-twitch muscles. He has a level line-drive stroke with gap power and blazing speed, which is usable on the basepaths, making him a top-of-the-order disruptor. Defensively Fox is average at this point, but with good range and soft hands, he should get better.
140. Kyle Muller, LHP, Atlanta Braves
Age: 21 Height: 6-6 Weight: 225 Bats: R Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CB: 50 CH: 55 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 11-3 ERA: 3.03 IP: 139.2 H: 126 BB: 46 SO: 129
Muller is one of the more underrated southpaw prospects in baseball, probably because he’s buried behind so many quality pitching prospects in the Braves system. Muller has an above-average fastball and both his breaking ball and changeup improved last year, to the point of now being average or above offerings.
139. Ryan Weathers, LHP, San Diego Padres
Age: 19 Height: 6-1 Weight: 200 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 55 CH: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 50
Stats (Rookie)
W-L: 0-3 IP: 18.1 H: 19 BB: 4 SO: 18
Ryan is the son of former major league pitcher David Weathers, who pitched for me in Cincinnati when I was the Reds GM. Ryan has a mid-90s fastball with sink at the bottom of the zone and explosive four-seam life at the top. He shows an above-average Uncle Charlie — a wipeout pitch when it’s on — and his changeup is advanced for his age. Conditioning will be important for him moving forward.
138. Sean Reid-Foley, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays
Age: 23 Height: 6-3 Weight: 221 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CB: 45 SLI: 45 CH: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 12-5 ERA: 3.26 IP: 129.2 H: 103 BB: 50 SO: 122
Reid-Foley has above-average fastball velocity, but below-average command of the pitch, which will have to improve if he’s going to reach his potential. His breaking balls both lack consistency right now, but he does flash them average or above at times. As he continues to develop his breaking balls and command, he should end up as a back-of-the-rotation innings eater at the very least.
137. Nico Hoerner, SS, Chicago Cubs
Age: 21 Height: 6-1 Weight: 199 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 45 HIT: 55 PWR: 45 RUN: 55
Stats (Rookie/A)
Slash: .327/.450/1.021 2B: 2 HR: 2 BRI: 6 SB: 6
The Cubs have always been great at drafting bats; they have some of the best amateur hitting scouts in the business. Hoerner appears to be another solid one, and there’s no doubt he’s going to hit. Hoerner is average or below defensively at shortstop, where he doesn’t have ideal range, but largely makes up for it with positioning, angles and first-step quickness. He does have a solid average arm for the position.
136. George Valera, OF, Cleveland Indians
Age: 18 Height: 5-10 Weight: 165 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 40 FLD: 45 HIT: 55 PWR: 45 RUN: 50
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .333/.409/.556 2B: 1 HR: 1 RBI: 6
Valera is a corner outfielder who can really hit, though he has below-average power. He’s also a below-average defender with a below-average arm. However, teenagers with the hit tool are always worth watching, because they can often improve the rest of their games significantly as they truck through their respective farm systems.
135. Darwinzon Hernandez, LHP, Boston Red Sox
Age: 22 Height: 6-2 Weight: 245 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 70 CB: 45 SLI: 45 CH: 45 CTL: 35 CMND: 45
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 9-5 ERA: 3.53 IP: 107 H: 86 BB: 66 SO: 134
Hernandez has a big arm but an inconsistent delivery, which affects the consistency of his breaking balls and leads to well-below-average command and control. He’s working on a changeup, and because he’s left-handed, they’ll keep him a starter as long as they can before moving him to the bullpen.
134. Beau Burrows, RHP, Detroit Tigers
Age: 22 Height: 6-2 Weight: 200 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 45 CB: 45 CH: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
Stats (AA)
W-L: 10-9 ERA: 4.10 IP: 124 H: 126 BB: 56 SO: 127
Burrows has a powerful four-seam fastball and lives at the top of the strike zone, making life miserable for hitters who are obsessed with improving their launch angle. His breaking balls are both below-average, though, and are in a work in progress.
Dane Dunning (Ron Vesely / MLB Photos via Getty Images)
133. Dane Dunning, RHP, Chicago White Sox
Age: 24 Height: 6-4 Weight: 200 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 SLI: 55 CB: 50 CH: 55 CTL: 50 CMND: 55
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 6-3 ERA: 2.71 IP: 86.1 H: 77 BB: 26 SO: 100
Dunning really knows how to pitch, and although he doesn’t have elite stuff, he does have four solid pitches that he can mix, add and subtract with. He has solid tempo and rhythm on the bump and profiles as a quality No. 3 or No. 4 major league starter.
132. Tony Gonsolin, RHP, Los Angeles Dodgers
Age: 24 Height: 6-2 Weight: 180 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 50 SLI: 45 SF: 55 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 10-2 ERA: 2.60 IP: 128 H: 104 BB: 42 SO: 155
Gonsolin went flying up the Dodgers’ prospect list after a stellar 2018 that included 155 strikeouts in only 128 innings of work, with an impressive 2.60 ERA. He’s got three plus pitches including his fastball, curve and split-fingered changeup, and he carries himself well on the mound, with a good feel for how to best utilize his repertoire.
131. Zack Brown, RHP, Milwaukee Brewers
Age: 24 Height: 6-1 Weight: 180 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CB: 55 CH: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 50
Stats (Rookie/AA)
W-L: 9-1 ERA: 2.40 IP: 127.2 H: 95 BB: 36 SO: 116
Brown (no relation to the Zac Brown Band) has exceptional potential thanks to his above-average fastball and curve. His changeup flashes average, and he gets his fair share of groundball outs. He’s definitely on the radar for both GM David Stearns and Craig Counsell as someone who can help them at some point this year.
130. Kyle Isbel, OF, Kansas City Royals
Age: 21 Height: 5-11 Weight: 185 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 50 HIT: 50 PWR: 50 RUN: 55
Stats (Rookie/A)
Slash: .326/.389/.504 2B: 22 HR: 7 RBI: 34 SB: 24
Isbel is a converted infielder and has made the transition look easy. He still has some work to do with jumps and angles, but that’s to be expected. He’s a contact hitter with gap-to-gap power, slightly above-average speed and even better baserunning instincts.
129. Peter Lambert, RHP, Colorado Rockies
Age: 21 Height: 6-2 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 50 CB: 55 SLI: 45 CH: 55 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 10-7 ERA: 3.28 IP: 148 H: 152 BB: 27 SO: 106
Lambert has a solid four-pitch mix, with his curve and changeup profiling as his best secondary pitches. He doesn’t have an overpowering fastball, but makes up for it with his moxie and deception in his delivery.
128. Michael Chavis, 3B/1B, Boston Red Sox
Age: 23 Height: 5-10 Weight: 220 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 45 HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 45
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
Slash: .298/.381/.538 2B: 14 HR: 9 RBI: 27 SB: 3
Chavis dealt with an 80-game PED suspension last year, and it was a real setback for the Red Sox, who were hoping to use him as a trade chip at last year’s trade deadline. Chavis is a below-average defender at third base, but is improving, and he does have a plus arm. I like his bat; although he strikes out too often, he offsets that with his power.
127. Franklin Perez, RHP, Detroit Tigers
Age: 21 Height: 6-2 Weight: 200 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 55 SLI: 45 CH: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 55
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 0-2 ERA: 6.52 IP: 19.1 H: 18 BB: 8 SO: 14
The headliner in the trade that sent Justin Verlander to the Astros in August of 2017, Perez has four pitches: a mid-90s fastball, an above-average curveball, an improving slider and an average change, which at times has good fade.
126. Ryan Mountcastle, 3B/OF, Baltimore Orioles
Age: 21 Height: 6-3 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 40 FLD: 40 HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats (AA)
Slash: .297/.341/.464 2B: 19 HR: 13 RBI: 59 SB: 2
Mountcastle is strictly a bat prospect. He can hit for average and power, including high-velocity stuff and good breaking balls. However, finding a place for him defensively will be a challenge. His best position, aside from designated hitter, will probably be left field.
125. Tyler Stephenson, C, Cincinnati Reds
Age: 22 Height: 6-4 Weight: 225 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 40 PWR: 55 RUN: 35
Stats (A)
Slash: .250/.338/.392 2B: 20 HR: 11 RBI: 59 SB: 1
Stephenson isn’t going to wow you with overwhelming tools, but he’s solid. He’s got a strong arm behind the plate, though he needs to work on his release time, and he’s got great power, but needs to improve his plate coverage. He’s been sidetracked by injuries the last couple of years, including left wrist surgery and a concussion.
Jahmai Jones (Mark J. Rebilas / USA TODAY Sports)
124. Jahmai Jones, 2B/OF, Los Angeles Angels
Age: 21 Height: 6-0 Weight: 215 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 45 HIT: 50 PWR: 45 RUN: 60
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .239/.337/.380 2B: 20 HR: 10 RBI: 55 SB: 24
Jones has a solid approach to hitting, above-average bat speed and quick hands, and he makes consistent hard contact. He stole 24 bases last year and has a good first step. He needs work defensively at second base, and will have to hit his way into the position.
123. Grant Lavigne, 1B, Colorado Rockies
Age: 19 Height: 6-4 Weight: 220 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 45 HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 40
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .350/.477/.519 2B: 13 HR: 6 RBI: 38 SB: 12
If I graded his hitting approach, it would probably be an 80 out of 80. He has the ability to take pitches out of the strike zone and wait for a pitch he can handle, along with a terrific two-strike approach. Lavigne’s on-base percentage of .477 speaks for itself. At first base he’s well above average, with special hands, range and first step quickness.
122. Ronny Mauricio, SS, New York Mets
Age: 17 Height: 6-2 Weight: 169 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 40 PWR: 40 RUN: 50
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .273/.304/.410 2B: 16 HR: 3 RBI: 35 SB: 2
Mauricio is a formidable athlete whose best tool is his strong arm, which he’ll show off from the hole. He lacks range at shortstop but makes up for it with first-step quickness and efficient angles. He has plus bat speed and raw power, making him a special and projectable prospect to keep your eyes on.
121. J.B. Bukauskas, RHP, Houston Astros
Age: 22 Height: 6-0 Weight: 198 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 55 CH: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 50
Stats (Rookie/A/AA)
W-L: 4-2 ERA: 2.14 IP: 59 H: 42 BB: 24 SO: 71
Bukauskas was almost the headliner traded to the Nationals at last year’s deadline in a package for Bryce Harper, before the deal was eventually nixed by the Nats’ front office. Bukauskas’ fastball is mostly 94-95 and he’ll cut it to left-handed hitters. His slider is his best secondary pitch and hits nasty, with late break. His changeup needs some more development, but he’s coming on fast and is shaping up to be a mid-rotation starter.
120. Colton Welker, 3B, Colorado Rockies
Age: 21 Height: 6-2 Weight: 199 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 40
Stats (A)
Slash: .333/.383/.489 2B: 32 HR: 13 RBI: 82 SB: 5
The Rockies keep producing top third base prospects, and here comes another one in Welker. All he has done is hit since arriving in professional ball, and this year was no exception as he reached base more than 38 percent of the time and hit 13 home runs. He profiles to be a future 20-25 home run hitter as he matures, and he’ll at least be an average defender with a plus arm.
119. Brice Turang, 2B/SS, Milwaukee Brewers
Age: 19 Height: 6-1 Weight: 165 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 60 HIT: 50 PWR: 40 RUN: 60
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .283/.396/.352 2B: 6 HR: 1 RBI: 18 SB: 14
Turang has an advanced approach at the plate with a fluid, level swing that allows him to cover both sides and use the whole field. He’s a solid defender at shortstop with a plus arm and can really run.
118. Bo Naylor, C, Cleveland Indians
Age: 18 Height: 6-0 Weight: 195 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 45 HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .274/.381/.402 2B: 3 HR: 2 RBI: 17 SB: 5
Bo is the younger brother of Josh Naylor and, like his brother, can really swing the bat. Bo is more athletic than his brother and has a better hit tool, while Josh has more power. The younger Naylor is a solid defensive catcher with a plus arm.
117. Nate Lowe, 1B, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 23 Height: 6-4 Weight: 235 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 45 HIT: 55 PWR: 65 RUN: 40
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
Slash: .330/.416/.568 2B: 32 HR: 27 RBI: 102 SB: 1
Lowe is a below-average defensive first baseman with slow feet and running speed. However, he can swing it and has loud, lofting and line-drive power. He’s an underrated bat prospect who certainly has the power to compete for the first base or designated hitter jobs starting in spring training.
116. Jordyn Adams, OF, Los Angeles Angels
Age: 19 Height: 6-2 Weight: 180 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 55 HIT: 45 PWR: 50 RUN: 75
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .267/.361/.381 2B: 6 HR: 0 SB: 5
Adams is a strong defensive center fielder with special athleticism and blazing speed. He has quick-twitch muscles and at least average raw power. Like so many other raw athletes in baseball, he’ll go as far as his hit tool will take him.
Josh Naylor (LG Patterson / MLB Photos via Getty Images)
115. Josh Naylor, 1B/LF, San Diego Padres
Age: 21 Height: 5-11 Weight: 255 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 40 HIT: 55 PWR: 70 RUN: 40
Stats (AA)
Slash: .297/.382/.447 2B: 22 HR: 17 RBI: 72 SB: 5
He can flat-out rake, with upper-deck power. His hit and power tools are undeniable, but so is his lack of defensive position; the Padres have tried him at first base and in left field. His best position is designated hitter. Therefore, look for him to be traded at some point in the future to an AL team.
114. Jackson Kowar, RHP Kansas City Royals
Age: 22 Height: 6-5 Weight: 182 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CH: 60 CB: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 40
Stats (A)
W-L: 0-1 ERA: 3.42 IP: 26.1 H: 19 BB: 12 SO: 22
Kowar has a good arm with a solid fastball and an above-average changeup that acts more like a screwball with deceptive late action. His breaking ball is somewhere between a curve and slurve and is still very inconsistent.
113. Travis Swaggerty, OF, Pittsburgh Pirates
Age: 21 Height: 5-11 Weight: 180 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 40 PWR: 55 RUN: 60
Stats (A)
Slash: .239/.322/.383 2B: 19 HR: 5 RB: 20 SB: 9
Swaggerty is a toolsy player whose best position is center field thanks to his range, jumps and angles. He has an above-average arm and can really run. He should focus more on hitting line drives and using the whole field, rather than on hitting homers.
112. Jesus Sanchez, OF, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 21 Height: 6-3 Weight: 210 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 50 HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .282/.324/.433 2B: 32 HR: 11 RBI: 75 SB: 4
Sanchez is going to hit — he has electric bat speed and above-average hand-eye coordination. He makes solid contact and uses the whole field. He shows average power now but profiles to have above-average power when fully developed. Defensively he’ll be able to play either corner, with at least an average accurate arm.
111. Nick Pratto, 1B, Kansas City Royals
Age: 20 Height: 6-1 Weight: 195 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 55 HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 45
Stats (A)
Slash: .280/.343/.443 2B: 33 HR: 14 RBI: 62 SB: 22
I loved Pratto’s swing when the Royals selected him with their first-round pick in 2017, but have been really disappointed by his high strikeout rate after his first two years in the minors. I thought he made progress late last year, though, and I still think he’s going to hit. His power should continue to develop. He hasn’t disappointed at first base, where he has good range, hands and stretches. He’s one of those players who require you to bet on the scout’s eye over the analytics experts’ numbers, and he needs time to develop.
110. Brandon Marsh, OF, Los Angeles Angels
Age: 21 Height: 6-4 Weight: 211 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 65 FLD: 55 HIT: 45 PWR: 55 RUN: 55
Stats (A/A)
Slash: .266/.359/.408 2B: 27 HR: 10 RBI: 70 SB: 14
Marsh is a tremendous athlete and an above-average defensive center fielder with a strong work ethic and a high baseball IQ. He has a plus-plus arm that stops runners from taking an extra base. But he needs a lot of work on his swing to become successful.
109. Brandon Lowe, 2B Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 24 Height: 6-0 Weight: 183 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 45 HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats (AA/AAA)
Slash: .297/.391/.558 2B: 31 HR: 22 RBI: 71 SB: 8
The Rays felt they finally found their second baseman last year in Joey Wendle, who had a solid season and hit over .300 for the year. However, Tampa Bay won’t be surprised if Lowe gives him serious competition sometime this year, thanks to his bat and 20 home-run power. Lowe is adequate defensively at second base and can make the routine plays, but it will be his bat that makes his case for playing time.
108. Cristian Pache, OF, Atlanta Braves
Age: 20 Height: 6-2 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 70 FLD: 70 HIT: 50 PWR: 40 RUN: 70
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .281/.335/.343 2B: 23 HR: 9 RBI: 47 SB: 7
Pache is very good defensive center fielder thanks to his incredible running speed, with special range and a strong arm. The real question is whether he’s going to hit good pitching. He likes to pull the ball and does not yet have a feel for how to handle the entire strike zone. The result is that he has huge holes at the plate, which leads to too many strikeouts. His great speed hasn’t been usable on the bases because he has yet to learn how to steal at a good percentage. However, due to his physical tools, he’s a player you wait for — because if he ever figures things out, he could be exciting.
107. Jordan Groshans, SS/3B, Toronto Blue Jays
Age: 19 Height: 6-3 Weight: 178 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .296/.353/.447 2B: 13 HR: 5 RBI: 43
Groshans has an incredible ceiling offensively and should fly up this board over the next couple of years. He can really hit, with consistent, loud sweet-spot contact. He hits line drives from foul line to foul line and has above-average pull power. Defensively, third base is his best position and he’s got a strong arm.
106. Logan Allen, LHP, San Diego Padres
Age: 21 Height: 6-3 Weight: 205 Bats: R Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 50 CH: 55 SLI: 50 CB: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 50
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 14-6 ERA: 2.54 IP: 148.2 H: 110 BB: 51 SO: 151
Allen is a bulldog on the mound who comes right after hitters with a four-pitch mix that includes an average fastball and an above-average changeup. Both of his breaking balls are average at times, with his slider being the more consistent of the two. The southpaw profiles to be more of a fifth-starter type or long man.
105. Kevin Smith, SS, Toronto Blue Jays
Age: 22 Height: 6-1 Weight: 188 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 45 PWR: 60 RUN: 50
Stats (A)
Slash: .302/.358/.528 2B: 31 HR: 25 RBI: 93 SB: 29
Smith might not light up the tool meter but he’s solid at shortstop with sure hands, good first-step quickness to both sides and a strong and accurate arm. He has a tremendous work ethic and passion for learning, which results in rapid development in most areas of his game. He’s definitely going to be an overachiever. Offensively, the power and baserunning instincts are real.
Bobby Dalbec (Mark J. Rebilas / USA TODAY Sports)
104. Bobby Dalbec, 3B, Boston Red Sox
Age: 23 Height: 6-4 Weight: 225 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 65 FLD: 50 HIT: 40 PWR: 70 RUN: 40
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .257/.361/.558 2B: 35 HR: 32 RBI: 109 SB: 3
Dalbec is a legitimate power-bat prospect with 30-35 home run potential. However, he has too much swing-and-miss in his game. He does have the ability to go the other way, and his power is to all fields. He also knows how to work a count. Defensively he’s solid at third base with a plus-plus arm. He’s likely to be a sixth- or seventh-hole hitter because of the low projected batting average and his high strikeout and homer mixture.
103. Christin Stewart, OF, Detroit Tigers
Age: 25 Height: 6-0 Weight: 205 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 45 HIT: 45 PWR: 65 RUN: 45
Stats (R/AAA)
Slash: .263/.363/.488 2B: 21 HR: 25 RBI: 80 SB: 0
Stewart has belted at least 25 home runs and driven in at least 80 runs in each of his last three minor-league seasons and will finally be given the chance to be the Tigers’ everyday left fielder if he can have a strong spring training in Lakeland. He’s a below-average defender in left field but can make the routine plays, and has the ability to get on base and hit homers.
102. Eric Pardinho, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays
Age: 18 Height: 5-10 Weight: 155 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CB: 55 SLI: 50 CH: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 50
Stats (Rookie)
W-L: 4-3 ERA: 2.88 IP: 50 H: 37 BB: 16 SO: 64
Pardinho has a clean delivery and tremendous pitchability. It’s amazing at his age that he’s already learned to add and subtract with all of his pitches and hit the catcher’s mitt without it needing to move. His fastball is slightly above average and his curveball and slider both miss bats when they’re on. He added a new changeup to his arsenal last year and it’s definitely a workable pitch already. He’s got savvy and should move quickly, despite his youth.
101. Adonis Medina, RHP, Philadelphia Phillies
Age: 22 Height: 6-1 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 55 CH: 55 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A)
W-L: 10-4 ERA: 4.12 IP: 111.1 H: 103 BB: 36 SO: 123
Medina has a solid delivery and fills up the strike zone with his 94-96 mph fastball. His slider is nasty when working and his changeup is quickly developing. He has some work to do with his command and control and, most importantly, the consistency of all his pitches, but he can miss bats and has high upside.
100. Deivi Garcia, RHP, New York Yankees
Age: 19 Height: 5-10 Weight: 165 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CB: 60 CH: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 40
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 5-4 ERA: 2.55 IP: 74 H: 50 BB: 20 SO: 105
Garcia is a 19-year-old who challenges with pure size and has a good arm, with a low- to mid-90s fastball, a curveball with a lot of spin and a strong feel for his changeup. He has a decent feel for the zone at a young age and the swing-and-miss stuff to be a starter, but he will need to develop physically to help handle the workload. You can’t ignore his 105 strikeouts in only 74 innings pitched, and it will be interesting to see how he does as he moves up the Yankees farm system.
99. Miguel Amaya, C, Chicago Cubs
Age: 19 Height: 6-1 Weight: 184 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 40
Stats (A)
Slash: .256/.349/.403 2B: 21 HR: 12 RBI: 52 SB: 1
A solid defensive catching prospect with an above-average arm, Amaya can hit a fastball and demonstrates above-average power. Like so many teenagers, he struggles against good breaking balls. His framing is above average for his age, but has some work to do with his feet and calling a game.
98. Brady Singer, RHP, Kansas City Royals
Age: 22 Height: 6-5 Weight: 210 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 55 CH: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
Stats
Did not pitch
Singer made headlines during the holidays when he gave his parents a Christmas gift by paying off all of their loans and debts from part of his $4.25 million signing bonus he received from the Royals after being drafted in the first round last year. That tells you what kind of person he is. On the mound, his talent and potential can match it thanks to a mid-90s fastball and a solid but inconsistent slider.
97. Tyler Freeman, SS, Cleveland Indians
Age: 19 Height: 6-0 Weight: 170 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 45 HIT: 55 PWR: 45 RUN: 55
Stats (A)
Slash: .352/.405/.511 2B: 29 HR: 2 RBI: 38 SB: 14
Freeman is a prospect crush for me. He dominated the New York-Penn League last year in almost every offensive category. He must have a magnetic sweet spot on his bat because that’s where all the contact comes from. You won’t see him breaking bats. He’s got gap power that will eventually morph into home run power as his body matures and develops. Defensively, his tools touch average and eventually, he could be moved from shortstop to second base. How about Dustin Pedroia’s success story with the Red Sox as a potential parallel for Freeman?
96. Jonathan Loáisiga, RHP, New York Yankees
Age: 24 Height: 5-11 Weight: 170 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 65 CB: 55 CH: 55 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
Stats (R/A/AA)
W-L: 6-1 ERA: 2.89 IP: 56 H: 57 BB: 8 SO: 67
Loáisiga has been injury-prone for most of his career, so it was a surprise last year to watch him move from rookie ball to A ball to Double A all the way to the major leagues. He has three pitches that are above average, including a 94-98 mph fastball that has well-below-average life to go along with an inconsistent curveball and changeup. He’ll be competing for the fifth, sixth and seventh spots in the Yankees rotation this spring training.
95. Will Smith, C, Los Angeles Dodgers
Age: 23 Height: 6-0 Weight: 192 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 65 HIT: 40 PWR: 55 RUN: 45
Stats (AA/AAA)
Slash: .233/.322/.455 2B: 18 HR: 20 RBI: 59 SB: 5
A good defensive catcher with above-average feet, agility and quickness, Smith also has a strong arm that can shut down the running game. He’s a much better hitter than his slash line indicates, as it appeared he was one of the many hitters in the Dodgers system last year who were so focused on improving launch angle and hitting home runs that they gave up some on-base average and contact because of it.
94. Víctor Víctor Mesa, OF, Miami Marlins
Age: 22 Height: 5-9 Weight: 165 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 55 HIT: 50 PWR: 50 RUN: 65
Stats
Did not play
Mesa signed a $5.25 million deal — the largest bonus given to any player in the 2018-2019 international free agent class — with the Marlins in October. The Marlins consider him their future center fielder, a spot where they think he’ll be well above average in all areas, including range, hands, glove and throwing arm. They are also impressed by his first-step quickness. Offensively, they view him as a top-of-the-order-type batter who can get on base and steal bags. I’d have him higher on this list if I could get a better read on his “hit” tools. I’ll be able to evaluate him better after I see him play in spring training games over the next several weeks.
93. Luis Robert, OF, Chicago White Sox
Age: 21 Height: 6-3 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 55 HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 70
Stats (R/A)
Slash: .269/.333/.360 2B: 11 HR: 0 RBI: 17 SB: 15
Robert is a tremendous athlete and has the type of bat speed and power that gives you goosebumps. However, there is a question about his pitch recognition and tracking of breaking balls. Defensively, he’s a pure center fielder with a right fielder’s arm. But, he doesn’t always provide good jumps, angles and routes in the outfield. His depth perception may need to be corrected. Based on his physical tools and athleticism alone, he’d be 20-30 places higher, but I still have some questions. He could end up in an All-Star Game one day, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s another toolsy player who falls short of expectations. He’s certainly a wild card to watch with ridiculous upside.
92. Julio Rodriguez, OF, Seattle Mariners
Age: 18 Height: 6-3 Weight: 180 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 45 PWR: 60 RUN: 55
Stats (DSL)
Slash: .315/.404/.525 2B: 13 HR: 5 RBI: 36 SB: 10
Rodriguez has a loud bat and his well-above-average power should do plenty of damage to outfield seats on his journey to the majors. He’s an advanced hitter for his frame, age and size. Defensively, he’ll be best suited for right field because of his plus-plus arm strength. He has special baseball IQ which translates in the batter’s box and on the basepaths. Love his tools, love his upside.
91. Tony Santillan, RHP, Cincinnati Reds
Age: 21 Height: 6-3 Weight: 240 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 65 SLI: 55 CH: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (R/A/AA)
W-L: 10-7 ERA: 3.08 IP: 149 H: 146 BB: 38 SO: 134
Santillan fills up the strike zone with hard stuff going right at hitters. His fastball is his best pitch and his velocity will get up to the high-90s with a hard late-breaking slider when it works. His changeup can be effective but needs to be softened. He must improve his touch and feel if he’s going to reach his middle- or back-of-rotation potential.
Evan White (Mark J. Rebilas / USA TODAY Sports)
90. Evan White, 1B, Seattle Mariners
Age: 22 Height: 6-3 Weight: 205 Bats: R Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 55 HIT: 50 PWR: 50 RUN: 55
Stats (A/AAA)
Slash: .300/.371/.453 2B: 29 HR: 11 RBI: 66 SB: 4
White is one of the best first base prospects in baseball as an above-average defender with quick feet, soft hands and solid balance. He has a good stretch and comes in well on bunts with good first-step quickness. At the plate, he’s a legitimate hitter who goes for average with hard contact to all fields. The one tool that holds him back is his lack of power for the position, but if that eventually comes, he’ll skyrocket up this ranking. He’s still going to be an everyday major league first baseman regardless.
89. Nate Pearson, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays
Age: 22 Height: 6-6 Weight: 245 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 65 SLI: 55 CH: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A)
W-L: 0-1 ERA: 10.80 IP: 1.2 H: 5 BB: 0 SO: 1
Pearson had a nightmare season in 2018. It started with a back injury that kept him out until mid-May and then when he returned, he got hit by a line drive that fractured his forearm and ended his season. Had he stayed healthy, he would have been much higher on this list. He has an overpowering fastball that reaches triple digits and has a great downward angle. His slider is sharp but inconsistent and his changeup has late movement. High risk, high reward.
88. Garrett Hampson, 2B, Colorado Rockies
Age: 24 Height: 5-11 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 40 RUN: 60
Stats (AA/AAA)
Slash: .311/.382/.462 2B: 25 HR: 10 RBI: 40 SB: 36
Hampson will be involved in one of the more interesting competitions in Rockies’ spring training as he has a legitimate chance of winning the everyday second base job to start the year. However, his competition is stiff and includes the versatile Ryan McMahon, Pat Valaika and former No. 1 pick Brendan Rodgers, who is his toughest long-term competition. Going into camp, though, Hampson is the front-runner. Hampson has shown the ability to get on base and advance while also playing average defense.
87. Luis Garcia, SS, Washington Nationals
Age: 18 Height: 6-0 Weight: 190 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 55
Stats (A)
Slash: .298/.336/.406 2B: 21 HR: 7 RBI: 54 SB: 12
The Nationals front office rave about Garcia’s potential. The left-handed hitting middle infielder has a short, quick stroke with an advanced approach to hitting and above-average instincts, intelligence and ability to adjust.
86. Dakota Hudson, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals
Age: 24 Height: 6-5 Weight: 215 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 65 CT: 50 SLI: 55 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (AAA)
W-L: 13-3 ERA: 2.50 IP: 111.2 H: 107 BB: 38 SO: 87
Hudson fills up the bottom of the strike zone with a sinker/slider combination that keeps the infielders busy throughout his appearances. He has great demeanor on the mound, works fast, changes speeds but somehow doesn’t understand the importance of filling up the strike zone. Instead, he’ll spend a lot of time trying to get hitters to chase off the plate, down or even up. Once he learns to live on the black and pitch ahead in the count, he could end up being a solid middle-of-the-rotation starter similar to former major leaguer Jake Westbrook. Otherwise, his future might end up being a middle innings reliever brought in to games to eat frames and create double plays to get out of jams.
85. Mason Denaburg, RHP, Washington Nationals
Age: 19 Height: 6-4 Weight: 195 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 65 SLI: 50 CH: 55 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats
Did not pitch
Denaburg is a product of Merritt Island High School in Florida, where he was a two-sport athlete playing both baseball and football. He has a mid-90s fastball to go with his best secondary pitch, his changeup, although his slider flashes average to above, as well. He finished with an ERA under 1.00 in 35.1 innings of work his senior year. He’s another example on a long list of undervalued draft picks by the Nationals’ elite scouting and analytics departments.
84. Khalil Lee, OF, Kansas City Royals
Age: 20 Height: 5-10 Weight: 170 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 40 PWR: 55 RUN: 55
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .263/.382/.390 2B: 18 HR: 6 RBI: 51 SB: 16
Lee was a two-way player when he was drafted, but is now strictly an outfield prospect. He has four average to above-average tools and will most likely end up in center field. Last year, he made great strides in improving his approach to hitting and did a better job of recognizing pitches, taking balls out of the zone. He’s a smart player, but his future will depend on his ability to hit elite pitching.
83. Drew Waters, OF, Atlanta Braves
Age: 20 Height: 6-2 Weight: 183 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 55
Stats (A)
Slash: .293/.343/.476 2B: 39 HR: 9 RBI: 39 SB: 23
I love Waters’ bat. He’s got great hands, wrists and forearms and has tremendous snap on contact. He’s playing center field for now, but if Ronald Acuña had to move to a corner, then Waters will, too. He’s not going to be a fast-tracked prospect to the majors, but it will be worth the wait when he gets there.
82. Bryse Wilson, RHP, Atlanta Braves
Age: 21 Height: 6-1 Weight: 225 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLURVE: 55 CH: 45 CTL: 50 CMND: 55
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
W-L: 8-5 ERA: 3.44 IP: 125.2 H: 113 BB: 36 SO: 143
I’m not quite sure how Wilson has gone so far under the radar in the industry. It must be because the Braves have more pitching prospects than anyone in baseball. However, Wilson would have been a top pitching prospect in almost every other organization thanks to his lively fastball and the special command he has of it. He’s made 55 starts and five relief appearances in his first three years in the minor leagues and the results have been staggering, including a 2.74 ERA and 311 strikeouts in only 289.1 innings pitched. He profiles as a back-end starter or perhaps an impact set-up reliever. He was slightly rushed into the big leagues, but in this case, that might actually help his development because he’ll better understand why his secondary pitches have to be more consistent, something that doesn’t have to happen to succeed at the minor-league level.
Dustin May (Joe Camporeale / USA TODAY Sports)
81. Dustin May, RHP, Los Angeles Dodgers
Age: 21 Height: 6-6 Weight: 182 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 55 CT: 45 CH: 50 CTL: 60 CMND: 50
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 9-5 ERA: 3.39 IP: 132.2 H: 118 BB: 29 SO: 122
The Dodgers are excited about the increased velocity on May’s fastball this year, which has gone from the low to mid-90s with a heavy sink and some movement. He also has a power curveball and cutter that he uses effectively to left-handed hitters. It’s impressive how much command and control of his pitches he showed last year considering his 6-foot-6 frame, but that’s because he’s able to maintain relatively good balance and a somewhat consistent release point.
80. Oneil Cruz, SS, Pittsburgh Pirates
Age: 20 Height: 6-6 Weight: 175 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 75 FLD: 45 HIT: 50 PWR: 60 RUN: 55
Stats (A)
Slash: .286/.343/.488 2B: 25 HR: 15 RBI: 59 SB: 11
Pirates GM Neal Huntington did a great job in acquiring Cruz from the Dodgers in a trade for Tony Watson during the 2017 trade deadline. Cruz is loaded with tools, including a rifle of an arm and well-above-average power, and he can really run considering his 6-6 frame. He won’t be able to stay at shortstop defensively in the majors, but should fit nicely at either third base or a corner outfield spot. He started reducing his strikeout rate this past year and should be ready to take a huge step forward offensively in 2019.
79. Jay Groome, LHP, Boston Red Sox
Age: 20 Height: 6-6 Weight: 221 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 60 CH: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats
Did not pitch
Groome will start the year on the injured list after undergoing Tommy John surgery last May. When healthy, he is the Red Sox’ top pitching prospect. His mid-90s fastball is legitimate and his curveball misses bats, but his changeup needs improvement. He profiles as a solid No. 2 or No. 3 starting pitcher, if he lives up to his potential.
78. Daniel Lynch, LHP, Kansas City Royals
Age: 22 Height: 6-6 Weight: 193 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 SLI: 55 CB: 50 CH: 45 SF: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (R/A)
W-L: 5-1 ERA: 1.58 IP: 51.1 H: 44 BB: 8 SO: 61
Lynch throws both a two- and four-seam fastball that can hit the mid-to-high 90s. His slider, meanwhile, is his best secondary pitch that he uses to put hitters away. He possesses other quality secondary pitches, including a power curveball, changeup and what looks like a split-fingered fastball. He gets the grounders with the two-seamers, the strikeouts with the sliders and the pop-outs with the four-seamers. Lynch has an arsenal and repertoire that certainly bodes well for his long-term future as a starting pitcher.
77. Luis Patiño, RHP, San Diego Padres
Age: 20 Height: 6-0 Weight: 192 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 60 CB: 40 CH: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A)
W-L: 6-3 ERA: 2.16 IP: 83.1 H: 65 BB: 24 SO: 98
Patiño is a converted shortstop who has made the transition to pitching look easy thanks to the incredible velocity he generates from his strength and his whip-action arm. His fastball comes in at a nasty 95-99 mph and he has a hard slider that, quite frankly, shuts the hitters up. He’s a tremendous athlete and fields his position like a shortstop (of course he does). The rest of his secondary pitches need improvement and his lack of downward plane is something to watch as he climbs the ladder to higher-level leagues.
76. Jon Duplantier, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks
Age: 24 Height: 6-4 Weight: 225 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 60 CB: 55 CH: 50 CTL: 55 CMND: 60
Stats (R/AA)
W-L: 5-1 ERA: 2.55 IP: 74 H: 57 BB: 30 SO: 77
Duplantier is the Diamondbacks’ top pitching prospect and he has the four-pitch arsenal — with great command and control — to live up to the expectations. His fastball is mostly in the 92-93 mph range, while his slider is probably his best secondary pitch in terms of consistency. That said, he does flash an above-average curveball and his change is average to above average, as well. He’s had some arm problems due to his unorthodox delivery, but if he stays healthy, he should be a solid mid-to-back rotation starter.
75. Isaac Paredes, INF, Detroit Tigers
Age: 19 Height: 5-11 Weight: 225 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 45 HIT: 50 PWR: 50 RUN: 45
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .278/.359/.456 2B: 28 HR: 15 RBI: 70 SB: 2
The Tigers acquired Paredes, along with Jeimer Candelario, in the deal that sent Justin Wilson and Alex Avila to the Cubs in July of 2017. Very quietly, Paredes’ bat has developed to the point where he could end up being an everyday offense-minded second baseman. He’s a contact hitter who has above-average barrel awareness and his average raw power turned into game power this past season. He probably doesn’t have the range to stick at shortstop, although he does have the arm. He’s a below-average runner but has decent first-step quickness. His bat will have to carry him.
74. Hans Crouse, RHP, Texas Rangers
Age: 20 Height: 6-4 Weight: 180 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 55 CH: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 40
Stats (A)
W-L: 5-3 ERA: 2.47 IP: 54.2 H: 43 BB: 19 SO: 62
Crouse is clearly the Rangers’ best pitching prospect. He has swing-and-miss stuff, including a mid-90s fastball with life to match and a nasty breaking ball when it’s on. His changeup, control and command are all a work in progress, though. The fun part about Crouse is when he starts to wiggle, shake, rattle and, yes, shimmy in his delivery as if he were part Luis Tiant, part Johnny Cueto or part dancer. With some development, his stuff screams top-of-rotation starter.
73. Elehuris Montero, 3B, St. Louis Cardinals
Age: 20 Height: 6-3 Weight: 195 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 45 HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 45
Stats (A)
Slash: .315/.371/.504 2B: 37 HR: 16 RBI: 82 SB: 3
Montero has a large muscular frame with tremendous raw power and strength. He has above-average bat speed and his raw power is to all fields. Although his strength has not translated to game power, his potential in the eyes of Cardinals’ evaluators is the 28-30 home run range in the future. He does have holes in his swing due to his frame, but he’s improving them. I don’t think he stays at third base defensively, but he could easily make the move to left field or first base at some point and be adequate in either spot.
72. Corbin Martin, RHP, Houston Astros
Age: 23 Height: 6-2 Weight: 200 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 SLI: 55 CB: 55 CH: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 55
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 9-2 ERA: 2.51 IP: 122 H: 88 BB: 35 SO: 122
One of the most underrated pitching prospects in baseball, Martin has a 93-96 mph fastball, with which he has above-average command. He also throws both an above-average slider and curve. He does all the little things on the mound well, including holding runners and fielding his position. His changeup continues to improve and he should be ready to provide rotation depth for the Astros as early as this September.
71. Adrian Morejon, LHP, San Diego Padres
Age: 19 Height: 6-0 Weight: 175 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 70 CB: 55 CH: 45 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (R/A)
W-L: 4-5 ERA: 3.44 IP: 65.1 H: 59 BB: 24 SO: 74
Morejon has a mid- to high-90s fastball from the left side with a nasty curveball when he finds the right arm slot. He throws two different changeups, both of which have been effective at times but mostly because he’s pitching at the lower levels. He does have a lack of downward plane, but I don’t think that’s a problem since he’s left-handed. Control and command will determine his destiny.
Cavan Biggio (Mark J. Rebilas / USA TODAY Sports)
70. Cavan Biggio, 2B, Toronto Blue Jays
Age: 23 Height: 6-1 Weight: 203 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 50 HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 45
Stats (AA)
Slash: .252/.388/.499 2B: 23 HR: 26 RBI: 99 SB: 20
I’m a huge Cavan fan, just like I was with his Hall-of-Fame father, Craig Biggio. That said, he’s a different player than his dad despite playing the same position. Cavan actually has more power than his dad, but he doesn’t have the same physical tools. He does have the same type of makeup, character, work ethic and passion for the game and that should make up for any tools that are lacking. Cavan may have holes at the plate, but his intellect and instincts should allow him to overcome his deficiencies.
69. Daz Cameron, OF, Detroit Tigers
Age: 22 Height: 6-2 Weight: 195 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 55 HIT: 50 PWR: 50 RUN: 55
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
Slash: .264/.343/.406 2B: 25 HR: 8 RBI: 61 SB: 24
Daz is the son of former major leaguer Mike Cameron, who played for me when I was GM of the Reds. Cameron has a great approach at the plate and is finally learning not to swing at balls out of the strike zone. Last summer, Cameron started embracing analytics and that led to him making several adjustments that allowed him to better learn the strike zone and wait for pitches he can handle. Cameron is an above-average defender with a solid arm, and although he only hit eight home runs last year, he should end up as a 15-18 home run hitter. He has a clear path to the major leagues with the Tigers’ thin outfield depth.
68. D.L. Hall, LHP, Baltimore Orioles
Age: 20 Height: 6-2 Weight: 195 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 55 CH: 55 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A)
W-L: 2-7 ERA: 2.10 IP: 94.1 H: 68 BB: 42 SO: 100
I saw him briefly last spring and he was one of those pitchers that you quickly ask, “Who is that guy?” Talk about impressive. Tremendous delivery that is clean and easy with lightning arm speed out front. His fastball pops in the low- to mid-90s. His secondary pitches are inconsistent, but he does flash two plus pitches, at times, with his curveball and changeup. Like many young pitchers, his control could use improvement.
67. Estevan Florial, OF, New York Yankees
Age: 21 Height: 6-1 Weight: 185 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 65 FLD: 55 HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 60
Stats (R/A)
Slash: .283/.377/.422 2B: 19 HR: 6 RBI: 35 SB: 16
Florial is one of those players who evaluators spend hours debating, analyzing and arguing over. Scouts love his tools, which are all average and above; hitting coaches love the loud noise that comes off his bat; the analytics personnel love his on-base percentage; and the outfield instructors love the velocity and accuracy of his arm. Then come some contrarian opinions by evaluators who think there is not enough consistency with the bat. They pick apart bad angles and jumps they’ve witnessed in center field, and some even question if he has to move to a corner some day. Others wonder if his tremendous raw power will ever translate to home runs at the major-league level. The bottom line is Florial could end up anywhere from a fourth outfielder to an All-Star-caliber center fielder and we’ll all just have to wait and see.
66. Brusdar Graterol, RHP, Minnesota Twins
Age: 20 Height: 6-1 Weight: 180 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 75 SLI: 55 CB: 40 CH: 45 CTL: 55 CMND: 55
Stats (A)
W-L: 8-4 ERA: 2.74 IP: 102 H: 89 BB: 28 SO: 107
When Graterol pitches, you better make sure your radar gun does well with the triple digits because he’ll be there often. He has a nasty late-breaking slider that he can put hitters away with and a curveball he has for show only. His changeup needs a lot of work as it’s too hard and not deceptive. His stuff screams either high-ceiling starter or impact closer.
65. Vidal Brujan, 2B, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 21 Height: 5-9 Weight: 155 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 60 PWR: 40 RUN: 70
Stats (A)
Slash: .320/.403/.459 2B: 25 HR: 9 RBI: 53 SB: 55
Brujan has a line-drive stroke with limited power but is able to spray the ball around the whole field. His running speed is his best tool as he can flat out fly, and the fact that he’s an on-base machine makes him a top lead-off prospect in baseball. Defensively, his best position is probably going to be second base, where he has quick feet and a strong arm to turn the double play. If he doesn’t add more gap power at the plate, he could end up as a utility player because he’s athletic enough to play all around the diamond.
64. Matt Manning, RHP, Detroit Tigers
Age: 21 Height: 6-6 Weight: 190 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 60 CH: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 50
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 7-8 ERA: 3.29 IP: 117.2 H: 90 BB: 51 SO: 154
Manning is the son of former NBA big man Rich Manning and was a two-sport star in high school. He has a 92-95 mph fastball, a plus power curveball and a developing changeup. His 6-foot-6 frame has made it difficult for him to repeat his delivery, which is why his command and control needs so much improvement. He has the ceiling of a top-of-the-rotation starter but might end up being a middle-of-the-rotation innings eater.
63. Ronaldo Hernandez, C, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 21 Height: 6-1 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 75 FLD: 45 HIT: 45 PWR: 55 RUN: 40
Stats (A)
Slash: .284/.339/.494 2B: 20 HR: 21 RBI: 79 SB: 10
Hernandez is the most underrated offensive catching prospect in baseball. He can really hit and has legitimate power, as shown by his 21 home runs last year in the Midwest League. He’s a converted infielder who is developing defensively behind the plate at a fast pace. Yes, he has a lot of work to do, especially in terms of framing, blocking and calling a game, but he also has a cannon for an arm and can shut down the running game. He’s definitely one to watch.
62. Griffin Canning, RHP, Los Angeles Angels
Age: 22 Height: 6-1 Weight: 172 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 60 SLI: 50 CH: 45 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
W-L: 4-3 ERA: 3.65 IP: 113.1 H: 99 BB: 44 SO: 125
Canning has a 92-94 mph fastball, with his curveball being his best secondary pitch, but he also offers a solid slider and a changeup that needs more work. He needs to improve his command and control, but he is a workhorse and should be a solid innings eater in the big leagues. The UCLA alum should be ready as soon as this summer to help the Angels.
61. Adam Haseley, OF, Philadelphia Phillies
Age: 22 Height: 6-1 Weight: 195 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 55 HIT: 60 PWR: 50 RUN: 55
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .305/.361/.433 2B: 17 HR: 11 RBI: 55 SB: 7
For some reason, Haseley is one of the more underrated outfield prospects in baseball and I just can’t understand why since all he’s done is hit since he was drafted by the Phillies in the first round of the 2017 Amateur Draft out of the University of Virginia. Haseley has slashed .298/.360/.424 in his first 681 plate appearances in the minor leagues with 30 doubles, seven triples, 14 home runs and 83 runs batted in. He also boasted an on-base percentage of .403 after getting promoted to Double A Reading last summer in only his second professional season. He has an advanced approach at the plate with consistent sweet-spot contact that leads to line drives from foul pole to foul pole. His game power should start to come around this year as he learns to adjust his launch angle. He’s also an above-average defender and has really good speed, especially going first to third.
60. Matthew Liberatore, LHP, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 19 Height: 6-5 Weight: 202 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CB: 55 SLI: 50 CH: 50 CTL: 55 CMND: 50
Stats (R)
W-L: 2-2 ERA: 1.38 IP: 32.2 H: 21 BB: 13 SO: 37
Liberatore has a 91-94 mph fastball that appears faster thanks to his 6-5 frame and angle of delivering the ball. He has two breaking balls. The curveball is his calling card, which is a putaway pitch to lefties when on and his slider is average or above, at times. His changeup is respectable most of the time but, on occasion, will wow you. He could develop into a solid middle-of-rotation starter.
59. Danny Jansen, C, Toronto Blue Jays
Age: 23 Height: 6-2 Weight: 225 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 45 HIT: 60 PWR: 45 RUN: 40
Stats (AAA)
Slash: .275/.390/.473 2B: 21 HR: 12 RBI: 58 SB: 5
Jansen is an offensive catcher who can hit with power. He puts the ball in play and walks almost as much as he strikes out. He’s not a very good defensive catcher at this point, but give him credit because he’s improved in almost every area and enough to be serviceable behind the plate. His bat will have to carry him and his catching will have to keep improving if he wants to be a starting catcher in the majors.
58. Yordan Álvarez, 1B/OF/DH, Houston Astros
Age: 21 Height: 6-5 Weight: 230 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 35 HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 50
Stats (AA/AAA)
Slash: .293/.369/.534 2B: 21 HR: 20 RBI: 74 SB: 6
Álvarez’ best position is designated hitter and the best part of his game is his bat. The left-handed power hitter has opposite field power and the ability to cover both sides of the plate with consistent sweet-spot contact. He’s very athletic for his large frame and, when fully developed, his power bat could produce 25-30 home runs. Defensively, don’t look for him to stay in the outfield because his jumps, angles and lack of range just aren’t going to work in the big leagues. He’ll either become adequate enough to play first or will be pigeonholed in the DH role, where I envision him. Either way, the bat plays.
Sean Murphy (Jayne Kamin-Oncea / USA TODAY Sports)
57. Sean Murphy, C, Oakland Athletics
Age: 24 Height: 6-3 Weight: 215 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 70 FLD: 60 HIT: 50 PWR: 55 RUN: 40
Stats (R/AA/AAA)
Slash: .285/.361/.489 2B: 27 HR: 8 RBI: 43 SB: 3
Murphy is one of the best all-around catching prospects in baseball and the Athletics’ front office has made it clear that he is their long-term solution at the position. His calling card starts with his above-average defense and foot quickness behind the plate. He also has an extremely strong arm that can shut down the running game. Offensively, he continues to develop at a rapid pace and could end up slugging 15-18 home runs eventually while getting on base at a 34 or 35 percent clip when fully developed.
56. Touki Toussaint, RHP, Atlanta Braves
Age: 22 Height: 6-3 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 60 CH: 60 CTL: 45 CMND: 40
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 9-6 ERA: 2.38 IP: 136.1 H: 101 BB: 53 SO: 163
Toussaint really impressed me in September with his poise, composure and athleticism on the mound. He has a 92-95 mph fastball, a hard, see-you-later curveball and an above-average changeup that just drops like an elevator when on. I’m not sure if he ends up in the middle of the Braves’ rotation or in a set-up role in the bullpen. Either way, the key to his future success will be when the control and command of his pitches arrive, which right now are minor concerns.
55. Gavin Lux, SS, Los Angeles Dodgers
Age: 21 Height: 6-2 Weight: 190 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 55 HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 55
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .324/.399/.514 2B: 27 HR: 15 RBI: 57 SB: 13
Lux made a huge leap with his development last year by reaching Double A at the age of 20. He has a quick, level stroke and makes consistent sweet-spot contact, spreading the ball all over the infield. His direct and clean approach allows him to avoid slumps, allowing him to lead all minor league shortstops in batting last year. He has surprising 15-18 home run power and is a smart base runner who can be a threat to steal. His stock is rising fast.
54. Josh James, RHP, Houston Astros
Age: 25 Height: 6-3 Weight: 206 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 75 CH: 70 SLI: 45 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 6-4 ERA: 3.23 IP: 114.1 H: 79 BB: 49 SO: 171
James is going to be given a chance to make the Astros starting rotation out of spring training and if his slider becomes more consistent, watch out because we may just be seeing the new AL Rookie Pitcher of the Year. James has an overpowering 98-100 mph fastball with a nasty wipeout changeup that comes at you with the exact arm speed and release point as his fastball. He punched out 171 hitters in 114. 1 innings in the minor leagues last year.
53. Luis Garcia, SS, Philadelphia Phillies
Age: 18 Height: 5-11 Weight: 170 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 60 HIT: 55 PWR: 40 RUN: 50
Stats (R)
Slash: .369/.433/.488 2B: 11 HR: 1 RBI: 32 SB: 12
Garcia was one of the top prospects in the 2017 class of International prospects and this year was considered, by several teams, as the best prospect to play in the Gulf Coast League, where he dominated with a .433 on-base percentage. He’s a well-above-average defensive shortstop with range to both sides, soft hands, quick feet, fluid rhythm and an accurate strong arm from the hole. He’ll make the highlight film play and the routine one. He’s mechanically sound at the plate, resulting in a quick-to-the-ball smooth swing.
52. Jarred Kelenic, OF, Seattle Mariners
Age: 19 Height: 6-1 Weight: 195 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 60 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats (R/R)
Slash: .286/.371/.468 2B: 10 HR: 6 RBI: 42 SB: 15
Kelenic was the key prospect acquired in the trade that sent Robinson Canó and Edwin Díaz to the Mets this offseason. Kelenic was clearly one of the best hitting high school bats that came out of the 2018 draft and he didn’t disappoint in his first year in the minors, where he got on base at a .371 clip with 10 doubles, six triples, six homers and 15 stolen bases in only 56 games. All of his tools are average or above, and his work ethic and makeup are off the charts.
51. Alec Bohm, 3B, Philadelphia Phillies
Age: 22 Height: 6-5 Weight: 225 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 45 HIT: 60 PWR: 60 RUN: 40
Stats (R/A)
Slash: .252/.335/.324 2B: 6 HR: 0 RBI: 17 SB: 3
Bohm was taken with the third overall pick in last year’s June Amateur Draft and although he didn’t impress in his first half season, there is no doubt that he has a special bat with above-average power. His stroke is short, has a high contract rate and he isn’t afraid to take a walk. His advanced approach and above-average bat speed should result in a relatively quick route through the Phillies’ farm system. He’s a below-average defender at third base, but the Phillies are confident he’ll be able to stick at the position.
50. Yusniel Diaz, OF, Baltimore Orioles
Age: 22 Height: 6-1 Weight: 198 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 55
Stats (AA)
Slash: .285/.392/.449 2B: 15 HR: 11 RBI: 45 SB: 12
Diaz was the headliner in the blockbuster trade last July that sent Manny Machado to the Dodgers. He is a toolsy player who showed off his arm, hitting ability and power in last summer’s Futures Game in Washington, D.C. In batting practice, Diaz shows 20-home run type power, but he’s never hit more than 11 homers in the minor leagues. He has a plus arm that profiles him as a right fielder, but he could play either corner. And while he’s an average runner, he has above-average instincts on the base paths.
49. Jonathan India, 3B, Cincinnati Reds
Age: 22 Height: 6-1 Weight: 200 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 55 HIT: 60 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats (Rookie/A)
Slash: .240/.380/.433 2B: 9 HR: 1 RBI: 23 SB: 6
India was the Reds’ first-round pick and the fifth player taken overall in last year’s amateur draft. He’s a pure hitter with above-average plate discipline and pitch recognition skills. He has average raw power and should be a 15-20 home run hitter in time. He’s a strong defender at third base with a plus arm, but could end up being blocked by Eugenio Suárez and Nick Senzel at the major-league level, so either a position change or a trade are eventual possibilities.
48. Peter Alonso, 1B, New York Mets
Age: 24 Height: 6-3 Weight: 245 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 40 HIT: 45 PWR: 70 RUN: 40
Stats (AA/AAA)
Slash: .285/.395/.579 2B: 31 HR: 36 RBI: 119 SB: 0
Alonso led all minor leaguers with 36 home runs and 119 RBI last year combined across Double A and Triple A. There is no question his power is real and will translate to the major leagues. He’s a well below-average defender at first base, but once he becomes at least adequate there, he’ll be ready to do damage for the Mets in the fifth or sixth spot in their lineup. He still struggles a bit against secondary pitches, but continues to improve in that area.
47. Carter Kieboom, 2B, Washington Nationals
Age: 21 Height: 6-2 Weight: 193 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 50
(Stats A/AA)
Slash: .280/.357/.444 2B: 31 HR: 16 RBI: 69 SB: 9
The Nationals signed free agent Brian Dozier to play second base this offseason, but they refused to give a multi-year offer to anyone at that position — the plan is for Kieboom to take over at second for good in 2020. Kieboom has good first-step quickness and soft hands, profiling as an average defensive player. He has above-average bat speed with 30 doubles and 12-15 home run type power.
46. Alex Verdugo, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers
Age: 22 Height: 6-0 Weight: 205 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 60 PWR: 50 RUN: 50
Stats (AAA)
Slash: .329/.391/.472 2B: 19 HR: 10 RBI: 44 SB: 8
Verdugo has a short, quick stroke from the left side with the ability to spread line drives all over the outfield. His smooth but level swing accounts for his power barely grading out at average, and he’ll have to learn to improve his launch angle if he wants to belt 20 or more homers. If you squint, you might be able to call his running speed “average” — which makes him profile best in left field rather than center or right, despite the fact he does have a plus-plus right fielder’s arm.
45. Triston McKenzie, RHP, Cleveland Indians
Age: 21 Height: 6-5 Weight: 165 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 60 CH: 55 CTL: 60 CMND: 55
Stats (AA)
W-L: 7-4 ERA: 2.68 IP: 90.2 H: 63 BB: 28 SO: 87
McKenzie doesn’t have overwhelming stuff, but what he does have is a low-90s fastball, an Uncle Charlie that buckles hitters’ knees and a quality dead-fish changeup he emphasizes to left-handed batters. He knows how to mix his pitches and has deception in his delivery, with extra reach that makes his fastball look harder than it really is.
44. Justus Sheffield, LHP, Seattle Mariners
Age: 22 Height: 6-0 Weight: 200 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 55 CH: 55 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 7-6 ERA: 2.48 IP: 116 H: 87 BB: 50 SO: 123
The Mariners traded their best pitcher, James Paxton, to the Yankees in the offseason and Sheffield was the headliner coming back. The Mariners are convinced he’ll develop into a No. 2 or No. 3 type starter and I agree, although many in the industry think he might end up in the bullpen. His frame is similar to former major leaguer Mike Hampton, and like Hampton, he gets good downward plane despite his height. He has a mid-90s fastball with a late-breaking slider that flashes above average. His changeup is a solid offering but he needs to be more consistent with it.
43. Chris Paddack, RHP, San Diego Padres
Age: 23 Height: 6-4 Weight: 195 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CH: 60 CB: 55 CTL: 50 CMND: 50
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 7-3 ERA: 2.10 IP: 90 H: 66 BB: 8 SO: 120
Paddack punched out an impressive 120 batters in only 90 innings of work while walking just eight batters last year at San Antonio of the Texas League and Lake Elsinore in the California League. His fastball comes in around the mid-90s and his arm speed doesn’t change for his best secondary pitch, an incredibly deceptive fading changeup that has most hitters on their front foot when it arrives. The next key to his development will be the refinement of his curveball, and when that happens, he’ll be flying up these rankings.
A.J. Puk (Justin Edmonds / Getty Images)
42. A.J. Puk, LHP, Oakland Athletics
Age: 23 Height: 6-7 Weight: 221 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 65 SLI: 60 CH: 45 CTL: 50 CMND: 50
Stats
Did not pitch due to ulnar collateral ligament elbow surgery
Puk was the A’s first-round pick (and sixth overall) in the 2016 draft and his first three years in the minors have not disappointed, as evidenced by his 224 strikeouts in 157 2/3 innings pitched. Unfortunately, he had to undergo Tommy John surgery this past year. When he’s healthy, he throws in the high-90s with a nasty but inconsistent slider and a changeup that remains a work in progress. His frame makes it difficult for him to repeat his delivery, which in turn hurts the command and control of his pitches.
41. Luis Urias, 2B, San Diego Padres
Age: 21 Height: 5-9 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 55 HIT: 65 PWR: 40 RUN: 45
Stats (AAA)
Slash: .296/.398/.447 2B: 30 HR: 8 RBI: 45 SB: 2
There is no doubt that Urias is going to hit, thanks to a quick, short, level swing and sweet-spot contact that allows him to hit line drives all over the park. He’s also an above-average defender at second base with soft hands, quick wrists, fast feet, special horizontal and vertical jumping ability to go along with his above-average arm. His best spot in the Padres’ lineup will be the No. 2 hole due to his ability to spit on pitches out of the zone and his ability to manipulate the barrel.
40. Kyle Wright, RHP, Atlanta Braves
Age: 23 Height: 6-4 Weight: 200 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 60 SLI: 55 CTL: 55 CMND: 50
Stats (AA/AAA)
W-L: 8-9 ERA: 3.46 IP: 138.0 H: 118 BB: 51 SO: 133
Wright is a complete pitcher with a four-pitch mix. His fastball is in the mid-90s and he has two above-average breaking balls; his curveball is the best of his secondary offerings, but his hard slider can also be used as a wipeout pitch. His changeup is impressive, too, with fade and deception. He could be a can’t-miss, top-of-the-rotation type starter or a lights-out reliever depending on how the Braves decide to use him.
39. Hunter Greene, RHP, Cincinnati Reds
Age: 19 Height: 6-4 Weight: 216 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 75 SLI: 60 CH: 50 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A)
W-L: 3-7 ERA: 4.48 IP: 68.1 H: 66 BB: 23 SO: 89
Greene has an unlimited ceiling as a pitcher, with a fastball in the 98-101 mph range and an impressively clean and easy delivery. He flashes an above-average slider but needs to work on the consistency of the pitch. His changeup is a work in progress. The raw skills and athleticism get you excited about his potential, but he needs to cut down on his walks and miss more bats. The Reds need to show patience and take care of his arm — rushing him would be a huge mistake.
38. Ke’Bryan Hayes, 3B, Pittsburgh Pirates
Age: 22 Height: 6-1 Weight: 210 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 75 HIT: 55 PWR: 45 RUN: 50
Stats
Slash: .293/.375/.444 2B: 31 HR: 7 RBI: 47 SB: 12
The son of former major league third baseman Charlie Hayes, Ke’Bryan continues to make significant improvements in all aspects of his game, specifically on offense. He’s improved in both his pitch recognition and ability to draw walks, while cutting down on his strikeouts. Defensively, he’s in much better physical condition than he used to be, which has led to better range and more accurate throws. His home run power will be the deciding factor on what kind of major league player he becomes, but there is no doubt he’ll be an above-average defensive third baseman and should be the long-term answer at the hot corner for the Pirates.
37. Jazz Chisholm, SS, Arizona Diamondbacks
Age: 21 Height: 5-11 Weight: 168 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 45 PWR: 55 RUN: 60
Stats (A)
Slash: .272/.329/.513 2B: 17 HR: 25 RBI: 70 SB: 17
Chisholm flew up prospect ranking boards this past season after he hit 25 home runs and stole 17 bags while playing stellar defense and making scouts drool over his five tools. Chisholm has good enough range to both sides and a plus arm, along with well above-average bat speed, and he plays with an extra jump. As he continues to develop, he might even be in the conversation as a 30/30 type middle infielder someday.
36. Nolan Jones, 3B, Cleveland Indians
Age: 20 Height: 6-4 Weight: 185 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 50 HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 50
Stats (A)
Slash: .283/.405/.466 2B: 21 HR: 19 RBI: 66 SB: 2
Jones made the transition from shortstop to third base look easy. His raw power finally translated to game power this past season, when he belted 19 home runs in 427 at-bats between Lake County in the Midwest League and Lynchburg in the Carolina League. He has been an on-base machine, as shown by his .410 OBP in his first three minor league seasons. He should be able to make the jump to Double A this year and reach the majors sometime in 2020.
35. Andres Gimenez, SS, New York Mets
Age: 20 Height: 5-11 Weight: 165 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 60 HIT: 55 PWR: 50 RUN: 50
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .281/.347/.409 2B: 29 HR: 6 RBI: 46 SB: 38
Gimenez has really good hitting mechanics and a short, quick path to the ball, but he will need to add strength if he’s ever going to have anything more than gap power. He is a plus defender at shortstop with above-average range to both sides and a plus-plus arm from the hole. He has above-average speed and even better baserunning instincts, which allowed him to swipe 36 bases last year. The Mets front office raves about his makeup and attitude.
Dylan Cease (Geoff Burke / USA TODAY Sports)
34. Dylan Cease, RHP, Chicago White Sox
Age: 23 Height: 6-2 Weight: 190 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 75 CB: 60 SLI: 50 CH: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 50
Stats
W-L: 12-2 ERA: 2.40 IP: 124.0 H: 82 BB: 50 SO: 160
Cease appears ready to help the White Sox win this year, thanks to a mid- to high-90s fastball and a nasty hammer that is a clear put-the-hitter-to-bed pitch when it’s on. His other secondary pitches are a work in progress, with his changeup being his third pitch. He’s probably just one or two small adjustments away from being ready for the majors.
33. Keibert Ruiz, C, Los Angeles Dodgers
Age: 20 Height: 6-0 Weight: 200 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 55 HIT: 55 PWR: 45 RUN: 40
Stats (AA)
Slash: .268/.328/.401 2B: 14 HR: 12 RBI: 47
I have Ruiz as the best prospect in the Dodgers organization, over outfielder Alex Verdugo. Ruiz is an above-average defensive catcher with an average arm that is enhanced by his quick release. He has soft hands, quick feet and plays with energy and enthusiasm. At the plate, he’s a switch hitter with line-drive gap power and he makes contact and puts the ball in play. There is no doubt he’s the Dodgers’ future catcher. The only question left is, will it happen this September or sometime next year?
32. Nick Madrigal, 2B, Chicago White Sox
Age: 21 Height: 5-7 Weight: 165 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 60 HIT: 60 PWR: 40 RUN: 60
Stats (Rookie/A)
Slash: .303/.353/.348 2B: 7 HR: 0 RBI: 16 SB: 8
Madrigal was arguably the prospect with the best hit tool coming out of the 2018 draft. He has a line-drive swing with gap power and uses the whole field. He’s an above-average runner and is capable of playing second base (likely his best position), shortstop or third base. He profiles as a No. 2 type hitter and should come fast through the White Sox system. A solid, low-risk everyday major league player.
31. Joey Bart, C, San Francisco Giants
Age: 22 Height: 6-3 Weight: 220 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 55 HIT: 50 PWR: 60 RUN: 40
Stats (Rookie/A)
Slash: .294/.364/.588 2B: 15 HR: 13 RBI: 40
The Giants took Bart with the second overall pick in the first round of the 2018 draft, and are hoping to do as well as they did the last time they took a catcher in the first round — back in 2008 when they drafted six-time All-Star Buster Posey. Bart has developed into an above-average defensive catcher over the last few years, with an arm that can shut down the running game. His bat has also improved, and his raw power — due to the strength in his hands, wrists, forearms and core — should result in 25-30 home runs.
30. Mitch Keller, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates
Age: 22 Height: 6-2 Weight: 215 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 70 CB: 60 CH: 50 CTL: 55 CMND: 55
Stats (A/AAA/AAA)
W-L: 12-4 ERA: 3.48 IP: 142.1 H: 130 BB: 55 SO: 135
Keller has a 94-96-mph fastball with sinking life that he can pinpoint on the black on both sides of the plate. His curveball has more of an 11-5 break than a 12-6 break, but it’s a plus pitch at times. His changeup still needs work but it’s improving. The key to Keller is the command and control of all his pitches. He profiles as a solid No. 2 type starter.
29. Mike Soroka, RHP, Atlanta Braves
Age: 21 Height: 6-5 Weight: 225 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SLI: 55 CH: 50 CTL: 65 CMND: 65
Stats (A/AAA)
W-L: 2-1 ERA: 1.76 IP: 153.2 H: 133 BB: 34 SO: 125
Soroka was the Braves’ best pitching prospect last summer when he was called to the major leagues, but a shoulder strain in August curtailed his development. If he can stay healthy this year, he’ll move up this list fast. Soroka is all about command, control, pitchability, and touch and feel which separates him from the rest. His stuff is not elite, but he does have a 92-94-mph fastball with an above-average slider and changeup. He can live at the bottom of the zone to result in groundballs and elevate to the top of the zone when he needs a strikeout. Soroka fills up the strike zone, adds, subtracts, goes in, goes out, goes down, goes up and just plain wins.
28. Francisco Mejía, C/OF/3B, San Diego Padres
Age: 23 Height: 5-10 Weight: 182 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 70 FLD: 45 HIT: 60 PWR: 50 RUN: 40
Stats (AAA)
Slash: .293/.338/.471 2B: 30 HR: 14 RBI: 68 SB: 0
The Padres acquired Mejía last July in a trade that sent closer Brad Hand and set-up reliever Adam Cimber to Cleveland. Mejía is one of the best offensive catching prospects in baseball because his bat easily profiles as a .300 hitter with 15-20 home run power. However, there are questions if he’ll ever be good enough defensively to be an everyday catcher, which is why both the Indians and Padres have spent precious development time working him both in left field and at third base.
27. Brendan McKay, LHP/DH, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 23 Height: 6-2 Weight: 210 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 50 CH: 50 CT: 55 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
ARM: 60 FLD: 45 HIT: 50 PWR: 50 RUN: 40
Stats (Rookie/A)
Slash: .214/.368/.359 2B: 8 HR: 6 RBI: 39 SB: 0
W-L: 5-2 ERA: 2.41 IP: 78.1 H: 55 BB: 14 SO: 103
McKay is a two-way player, but I think he should focus on pitching, where he has the most upside. McKay has a mid-90s fastball with an above-average curveball and developing cutter. He has a good feel for his average changeup. As a position player, he does have a sweet swing with at least average power. The Rays announced just prior to the start of spring training that he will no longer play in the field and will only DH, in an effort to simplify his pre-game schedule and focus on his performance at the plate.
26. Ian Anderson, RHP, Atlanta Braves
Age: 20 Height: 6-3 Weight: 170 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 65 CB: 60 CH: 55 CTL: 50 CMND: 50
Stats (A/AA)
W-L: 4-7 ERA: 2.49 IP: 119.1 H: 87 BB: 49 SO: 142
Anderson is one of the most underrated pitching prospects in baseball and I won’t be surprised if he eventually passes Mike Soroka, Kyle Wright, Sean Newcomb and even Mike Foltynewicz and becomes the ace of the Braves staff. His fastball ranges from 93-97 mph and comes at hitters with an impressive downhill angle. Both his curveball and changeup are above-average. He knows how to add and subtract and can put the ball anywhere in the strike zone. He does need to throw more strikes and improve his command in the zone, but when that control and command arrives — which could be this year — watch out.
Austin Riley (Butch Dill / USA TODAY Sports)
25. Austin Riley, 3B, Atlanta Braves
Age: 21 Height: 6-3 Weight: 220 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 65 FLD: 55 HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 40
Stats (Rookie/AA/AAA)
Slash: .294/.360/.522 2B: 30 HR: 19 RBI: 70 SB: 1
His stock is rising so fast that the Braves turned down a Riley-for-J.T. Realmuto trade earlier this offseason. Riley has improved his defense, and his above-average arm is getting raves. The bat is also starting to break out and he’s now quicker and shorter to the ball than ever before. Thanks to his athleticism, he seems to do everything better than you’d think, as his tools, outside of his lack of speed, are all above average. The Braves are planning on him being their everyday third baseman in 2020.
24. Yusei Kikuchi, LHP, Seattle Mariners
Age: 27 Height: 6-0 Weight: 195 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 55 CB: 50 SLI: 55 CH: 45 CTL: 60 CMND: 55
Stats (Japan Pacific League)
W-L: 14-4 ERA: 3.08 IP: 163.2 H: 124 BB: 45 SO: 153
The Mariners are so convinced about Kikuchi that they were willing to guarantee him $43 million over three years, along with an option year he can trigger in 2022 for another $13 million. On top of that, the Mariners can trigger a four-year, $66 million extension after the 2021 season. So what makes Kikuchi worth this much in guaranteed dollars? The southpaw has a 91-94-mph fastball to go along with a plus slider, but it’s his command and control of his pitches that have the Mariners most excited.
23. Brent Honeywell, RHP, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 23 Height: 6-2 Weight: 184 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 SC: 75 CB: 55 SLI: 55 CH: 60 CTL: 60 CMND: 55
Stats
Did not pitch due to ulnar collateral ligament surgery to right elbow
Honeywell was major-league ready before he underwent Tommy John surgery last February and was knocked out for the year. He should be ready to resume his career sometime this spring, and if he comes back to form, he could quickly become one of the top rookie pitchers in the AL. His calling card is his screwball, one of the best in baseball. His fastball, when healthy, is mid-90s with life and his slider and changeup are both above average as well. I love this kid’s athleticism and poise.
22. Alex Reyes, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals
Age: 24 Height: 6-3 Weight: 175 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 75 CB: 65 SLI: 55 CH: 65 CTL: 45 CMND: 45
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
W-L: 3-0 ERA: 0.00 IP: 23 H: 7 BB: 7 SO: 44
Reyes, when healthy, is one of the best young starters in baseball. He underwent Tommy John surgery in March 2017 and when he finally came back last spring, he went right back on the disabled list with a season-ending right lat injury. But he has the talent to become an ace. He has a high-90s fastball go to along with a wipeout curve and changeup. When his command and control arrive, it will be showtime. Reyes also has special makeup and intelligence, and is a sponge when it comes to learning.
21. Keston Hiura, 2B, Milwaukee Brewers
Age: 22 Height: 5-11 Weight: 193 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 40 HIT: 70 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .293/.357/.464 2B: 34 HR: 13 RBI: 43 SB: 15
I would rank Hiura’s hit tool as the third best of any current prospect, behind only Guerrero’s and Kirilloff’s. He has a short, straight-to-the-ball compact stroke with tremendous barrel awareness and electric bat speed — another loud bat who uses the whole field. His power, which is average now, should turn into 20-25-home run type production in a few years. He’s an average runner but an above-average base runner. The biggest question in his game is his defense. He’s well below-average at second base, and there are many who think he might end up in left field. He only has to become adequate at second to be an All-Star player on the strength of his bat.
20. MacKenzie Gore, LHP, San Diego Padres
Age: 19 Height: 6-3 Weight: 190 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 60 SLI: 55 CH: 55 CTL: 65 CMND: 60
Stats (A)
W-L: 2-5 ERA: 4.45 IP: 60.2 H: 61 BB: 18 SO: 74
Gore has the highest ceiling of all the left-handed pitching prospects in baseball, thanks to a mid-90s fastball and three above-average secondary pitches including a curveball, slider and changeup. His curve is well above average and he can get strike one with it or use it to put hitters away. He has a deceptive delivery and is very athletic on the mound, and should come along quickly for a 19-year-old.
19. Nolan Gorman, 3B, St. Louis Cardinals
Age: 18 Height: 6-1 Weight: 210 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 50 PWR: 70 RUN: 45
Stats (Rookie/A)
Slash: .291/.380/.579 2B: 13 HR: 17 RBI: 44 SB: 1
Last year I had Juan Soto of the Nationals and Wander Franco of the Rays higher on my prospect rankings than every other publication; this year, Nolan Gorman will be one of those players that I like more than most evaluators. Actually, I love this left-handed power bat, and feel that he will eventually develop into a dominating middle-of-the-lineup hitter with potentially 30-35 home runs. He profiles as an average defender at the hot corner with a plus-plus arm. The power is what will carry him, and although he’ll need to cut down on his strikeouts, he does understand the strike zone and has above-average pitch recognition, even if he still struggles against off-speed pitches. His power is unforgiving and is clearly his best tool — when he makes contact, the noise is louder than fireworks on the 4th of July. I look forward to covering him in All-Star Games starting in 2023 or 2024.
Sixto Sanchez (Cliff Welch / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
18. Sixto Sanchez, RHP, Miami Marlins
Age: 20 Height: 6-0 Weight: 188 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 75 CB: 60 CH: 45 CTL: 65 CMND: 60
Stats (A)
W-L: 4-3 ERA: 2.51 IP: 46.2 H: 39 BB: 11 SO: 45
Sanchez has an overall electric arm, reminding me of a young Pedro Martínez at the same age. His fastball is overpowering at 98-99 mph with above-average life and a heavy sink. He also flashes an above-average power curveball, which can be a wipeout pitch when it’s on, and has a developing changeup. His 6-foot frame is not a concern because he gets above-average downward plane. There is no limit to his potential, which is why the Marlins insisted he be the headliner in the J. T. Realmuto trade.
17. Jesus Luzardo, LHP, Oakland Athletics
Age: 21 Height: 6-1 Weight: 205 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
FB: 60 CB: 60 CH: 75 CTL: 65 CMND: 60
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
W-L: 10-5 ERA: 2.88 IP: 109.1 H: 89 BB: 30 SO: 129
Luzardo is my pick for the best rookie pitcher in the majors this year. Billy Beane, the A’s head of baseball operations, told me that he will be given a chance to make their starting rotation in spring training. If that’s the case, don’t be surprised if he ends up being their most successful starter this year. Luzardo has a mid- to high-90s fastball with a deceptive, late-fading changeup and a curveball that he can add and subtract with. The best parts of his game is his feel for pitching and ability to keep hitters off-balance.
16. Taylor Trammell, OF, Cincinnati Reds
Age: 21 Height: 6-2 Weight: 215 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 55 HIT: 60 PWR: 55 RUN: 60
Stats (A)
Slash: .277/.375/.406 2B: 19 HR: 8 RBI: 41 SB: 25
Trammell is a superb athlete who committed to play both football and baseball at Georgia Tech. His athleticism has helped him expedite the development of the rest of his game. He does swing and miss too often, but he continues to improve in lowering his strikeouts and increasing his walks and getting on base. He is a threat to steal at all times. He looks like he’ll be able to stay in center field, with his only below-average tool being his arm strength. He’s also a great competitor with strong leadership qualities.
15. Michael Kopech, RHP, Chicago White Sox
Age: 22 Height: 6-3 Weight: 205 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 80 CB: 60 SLI: 60 CH: 50 CTL: 50 CMND: 45
Stats (AAA)
W-L: 7-7 ERA: 3.70 IP: 126.1 BB: 60 SO: 170
Kopech was primed to be on the top of this year’s pitcher rankings until the news came out last August that he would undergo Tommy John surgery. The timing couldn’t have been worse, as it looked like he was finally figuring out how to improve his command and control. Kopech, when healthy, has a 100-mph fastball and a wipeout slider. Most scouts compare him to Noah Syndergaard of the Mets, and I’ll concur with that comparison.
14. Casey Mize, RHP, Detroit Tigers
Age: 21 Height: 6-3 Weight: 220 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 70 SLI: 55 CH: 65 SF: 55 CTL: 55 CMND: 60
Stats (Rookie/A)
W-L: 0-1 ERA: 3.95 IP: 13.2 H: 13 BB: 3 SO: 14
The Tigers took Mize with the first-overall draft pick in June, and he’s on the fast track with an ETA as early as September of this year. Mize has four above-average pitches, and can punch hitters out with three of them. His split-finger is probably his best secondary pitch — it just dives when it reaches the plate. His overpowering fastball has above-average running life, and he lives in the strike zone, with special pinpoint command of his pitches. His ability to repeat his smooth, clean delivery gives us the indication that he’ll live up to where he was picked in the draft.
13. Brendan Rodgers, 2B, Colorado Rockies
Age: 22 Height: 6-0 Weight: 185 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 55 HIT: 60 PWR: 60 RUN: 50
Stats (AA/AAA)
Slash: .268/.330/.460 2B: 27 HR: 17 RBI: 67 SB: 12
Rodgers was drafted as a shortstop, and although he could stay at that position, the Rockies have played him a lot at second base, with the idea that he could replace DJ LeMahieu (who departed for the Yankees in free agency this offseason). Rodgers probably profiles best at third base rather than second because of his strong arm, but Nolan Arenado, the game’s best defensive third baseman, is already entrenched there. Rodgers has made progress, but still needs to work on his plate discipline and ability to draw walks. Both GM Jeff Bridich and manager Bud Black told me that they will allow him to compete for the second base job in spring training with three other Rockies, but it sounds like they’d like to see him start the year in the minors until he shows more improvement in taking pitches. However, there is no doubt in my mind that he’ll be their regular second baseman sooner rather than later.
12. Bo Bichette, SS, Toronto Blue Jays
Age: 20 Height: 6-0 Weight: 203 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 65 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats (AA)
Slash: .286/.343/.453 2B: 43 HR: 11 RBI: 74 SB: 32
I was amazed last year by the rapid pace of Bichette’s development on both sides of the ball. He has a really short but violent swing, and has the poise and maturity of a 10-year veteran, which is probably the result of being the son of former All-Star Dante Bichette. Bo has better tools than his father, especially on the defensive side of the game, where it looks like he’ll be able to stay at shortstop thanks to above-average first-step quickness and special instincts. His bat and power is what will get him paid, but his intangibles help him in so many different aspects of the game. He stole 32 bases last year with average speed, which is a strong indication of his baseball IQ. The Jays will probably try to keep him down as long as they can to secure an extra year of control, but like his teammate Vladimir Guerrero Jr., he’s ready to compete at the major league level right now.
11. Nick Senzel, 3B, Cincinnati Reds
Age: 23 Height: 6-1 Weight: 207 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 55 HIT: 55 PWR: 55 RUN: 55
Stats (AAA)
Slash: .310/.378/.509 2B: 12 HR: 6 RBI: 25 SB: 8
Senzel’s best position is clearly third base and if it weren’t for Eugenio Suárez blocking him, he would easily be their everyday third baseman right now. He profiles as a 20-home run, 80-90 RBI type bat. He’s athletic and versatile, which is why the Reds have tried him at second, short and even considered him for all three outfield positions. I would think left field is the best spot for him if he’s not going to play third, but I’m hoping they don’t waste his potential by having him play several different positions coming off the bench. Going back to AAA would be a waste of time. It will be interesting to see how the Reds make room for him.
10. Alex Kirilloff, OF, Minnesota Twins
Age: 21 Height: 6-2 Weight: 219 Bats: L Throws: L
Scouting Grades
ARM: 45 FLD: 50 HIT: 70 PWR: 55 RUN: 50
Stats (A)
Slash: .348/.392/.578 2B: 44 HR: 20 RBI: 101 SB: 4
I fell in love with his swing last summer in the Futures Game, and considered putting him as high as third on this list because of his hit tool alone. The bat is going to play, and I consider him to be the second-best hitting prospect in the game, behind only Guerrero. He also looks to have 25-30-home run raw power. Defensively, he looked solid to me in right field and although I saw a below-average arm, multiple evaluators assured me his arm touches average.
9. Kyle Tucker, OF, Houston Astros
Age: 22 Height: 6-4 Weight: 190 Bats: L Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 50 HIT: 60 PWR: 60 RUN: 50
Stats (AAA)
Slash: .332/.400/.590 2B: 27 HR: 24 RBI: 93 SB: 20
Astros GM Jeff Luhnow has had both Whitley and Tucker on his “will not trade” list, even when given the opportunity to trade for star players like catcher J.T. Realmuto of the Marlins. There is good reason for that, as Tucker has a special bat with phenomenal speed and quick, loud sweet-spot contact that results in a high rate of hard-hit balls and 25-30-home run power. He’s also an extremely smart baserunner, which helped him steal over 20 bags last season. It’s only a matter of time before he beats out Josh Reddick for one of the Astros’ outfield corner spots, and he should become a fixture in the middle of the Astros’ lineup.
Victor Robles (Geoff Burke / USA TODAY Sports)
8. Victor Robles, CF, Washington Nationals
Age: 21 Height: 6-0 Weight: 190 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 75 HIT: 65 PWR: 50 RUN: 75
Stats (Rookie/A/AAA)
Slash: .276/.371/.370 2B: 10 HR: 2 RBI: 14 SB: 19
If Robles gets the opportunity to be the everyday center fielder for the Nationals out of spring training, he will be my pick for NL Rookie of the Year. Robles has been plagued by injuries the last couple of seasons, including a hyperextended left elbow last April. However, he is the epitome of a five-tool outfielder with tremendous athleticism. He profiles out to a .300-type hitter with eventual 15-20 home run power and 35-40 stolen base potential. His defense in center field will put him in Gold Glove conversations, and multiple All-Star games are certainly in his future.
7. Royce Lewis, SS, Minnesota Twins
Age: 19 Height: 6-2 Weight: 190 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 60 HIT: 60 PWR: 55 RUN: 65
Stats (A)
Slash: .292/.352/ 451 2B: 29 HR: 14 RBI: 74 SB: 28
Lewis was the first overall pick in the 2017 draft, and after watching him hit 14 home runs, steal 28 bases and improve immensely on defense at shortstop last year, it looks like the Twins got it right. He should be able to make the jump to AA this year and perhaps make his major league debut around September of 2020. His intelligence and baseball instincts are off the charts, his athleticism a difference-maker and his ability to adjust separates him from the rest.
6. Jo Adell, OF, Los Angeles Angels
Age: 19 Height: 6-3 Weight: 208 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 60 HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 65
Stats (A/AA)
Slash: .290/.355/543 2B: 32 HR: 20 RBI: 77 SB: 15
Adell is one of my favorite prospects in baseball. He has all five tools to develop into a perennial All-Star outfielder. Adell has hard line-drive power abilities to all fields and at least 20 home run power to go with it. He is an above-average center fielder with good range and a strong and accurate arm. Beyond that, he’s a smart player who can make in-game adjustments and can beat you by stealing a base, dropping down a bunt, moving a runner or hitting the ball over the fence.
5. Wander Franco, SS, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 17 Height: 5-10 Weight: 190 Bats: B Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 55 FLD: 55 HIT: 65 PWR: 65 RUN: 50
Stats (Rookie)
Slash: .351/.419/.587 2B: 10 HR: 11 RBI: 57 SB: 4
Franco is the best switch-hitting prospect in baseball with a special hit tool that could potentially earn him a batting championship in time. He has tremendous depth perception, which allows him to recognize pitches early, and has impressive plate discipline for a 17-year-old. At shortstop, he has soft hands, solid range to both sides and plays with high energy and enthusiasm. He has surprising raw power for his frame, thanks to quick and strong hands, wrists and forearms. He should eventually end up with 20 home run game power. A special talent who could land at the top of this list in the next year or two.
4. Forrest Whitley, RHP, Houston Astros
Age: 21 Height: 6-7 Weight: 195 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
FB: 75 CB: 60 SLI: 60 CH: 65 CT: 55 CTL: 55 CMND: 50
Stats (AA)
W-L: 0-2 ERA: 2.42 IP: 26.2 H: 15 BB: 11 SO: 34
Let’s start with this: He’s the best pitching prospect in baseball. He has an overpowering high-90s fastball with heavy sink and three above-average secondary pitches in his curveball, slider and changeup. I’m expecting his command to arrive this year, and when it does, he’ll immediately start being in the conversation with teammates Justin Verlander and Gerrit Cole about who’s the best starter on the team, and who will be the next to win a Cy Young.
3. Eloy Jiménez, OF, Chicago White Sox
Age: 22 Height: 6-4 Weight: 210 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 50 FLD: 45 HIT: 60 PWR: 70 RUN: 40
Stats (AA/AAA)
Slash: .337/.384/.577 2B: 28 HR: 22 RBI: 77 SB: 0
Jiménez will soon become a staple in the middle of the White Sox lineup. His bat and power cannot be questioned, and comparisons have him somewhere between Carlos Lee and Miguel Cabrera. He has tremendous strength and leverage, and his power plays from foul pole to foul pole. He has shown the ability to adjust and creates great backspin. Jiménez may be the best power prospect in the sport right now. His best position is left field, and that’s where the White Sox should plant him for the next decade, although he does have a good enough arm to play either corner.
2. Fernando Tatís Jr., SS, San Diego Padres
Age: 20 Height: 6-3 Weight: 188 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 60 HIT: 55 PWR: 60 RUN: 55
Stats (AA)
Slash: .286/.355/.507 2B: 22 HR: 16 RBI: 43 SB: 16
One of the Padres’ top evaluators compared him to Manny Machado a few years ago, and although that might be an exaggeration, there is no doubt he has a chance to develop into a superstar. He has the power and speed to eventually join the 30/30 club. Tatís also profiles as an above-average defensive shortstop and third baseman with an above-average arm, range, glove and first-step quickness enhanced by special athleticism. He’s expected to start the year in the minors, but they won’t be able to keep him down long, and depending on when he’s called up he could win the NL Rookie of the Year Award this year.
1. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., 3B, Toronto Blue Jays
Age: 19 Height: 6-1 Weight: 200 Bats: R Throws: R
Scouting Grades
ARM: 60 FLD: 45 HIT: 75 PWR: 70 RUN: 45
Stats (A/AA/AAA)
Slash: .381/.437/.636 2B: 29 HR: 20 RBI: 78 SB: 3
Guerrero is the best hitting prospect major league baseball has seen since Mike Trout arrived eight years ago. He has tremendous bat speed with loud, sweet-spot contact and the ability to use the entire field. He doesn’t appear to have a weakness in the strike zone and he can hit the high velocity as well as the nasty breaking balls. He has special pitch recognition and the raw power to eventually be a 30-homer middle-of-the-lineup impact run producer. He’s still a work in progress at third base, but should eventually develop into at least an adequate defender, and if not, he can always be moved to left field in time. He’s my pick for AL Rookie of the Year.
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