Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Top 20 Prospects

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Top 20 Prospects

1. Jordan Walden (B+) - RHP
2. Nick Adenhart (B) - RHP
3. Hank Conger (B) - C
4. Trevor Reckling (B-) - LHP
5. Will Smith (B-) - LHP
6. Peter Bourjos (B-) - OF
7. Mark Trumbo (C+) - 1B
8. Kevin Jepsen (C+) - RHP
9. Ryan Chaffee (C+) - RHP
10. Anthony Ortega (C+) - RHP
11. Sean O'Sullivan (C+) - RHP
12. Tyler Chatwood (C+) - RHP
13. Luis Jimenez (C+) - 3B
14. Gabe Jacobo (C+) - 1B
15. Nick Green (C+) - RHP
16. Ryan Mount (C+) - 2B
17. Mason Tobin (C+) - RHP
18. Matt Brown (C+) - 3B
19. Clay Fuller (C+) - OF
20. Alexander Torres (C ) - LHP


Other "C"s who didn't make the cut:


Manuarys Correa (C ) - RHP
Andrew Romine (C ) - SS
Matt Sweeney (C ) - 1B/3B
Michael Kohn (C ) - RHP
Jose Perez (C ) - RHP
Freddy Sandoval (C ) - IF







*Due to other commitments, I will no longer be writing up comments. However, if you have a question on a particular player or why I ranked the way I did, please comment and I will give a detailed response.

Cleveland Indians Top 20 Prospects

Cleveland Indians Top 20 Prospects

1. Carlos Santana (B+) - C
2. Matt LaPorta (B+) - 1B/OF
3. Adam Miller (B+) - RHP
4. Nick Weglarz (B) - OF
5. Beau Mills (B) - 1B
6. David Huff (B) - LHP
7. Hector Rondon (B) - RHP
8. Lonnie Chisenhall (B-) - SS
9. Kelvin de la Cruz (B) - LHP
10. Luis Valbuena (B-) - 2B
11. Michael Brantley (B-) - OF
12. Carlos Rivero (C+) - SS
13. Wes Hodges (C+) - 1B/3B
14. Scott Lewis (C+) - LHP
15. Jonathan Meloan (C+) - RHP
16. T.J. House (C+) - LHP
17. Trey Haley (C+) - RHP
18. Zach Putnam (C+) - RHP
19. Rob Bryson (C+) - RHP
20. Trevor Crowe (C+) - OF

Other "C"s who didn't make the cut:

Matt McBride (C+) - C
Chuck Lofgren (C+) - LHP
Bryce Stowell (C+) - RHP
Cord Phelps (C ) - 2B
Chen-Chang Lee (C ) - RHP
Eric Berger (C ) - LHP
Jared Goedert (C ) - 3B
Josh Rodriguez (C ) - IF
John Drennen (C ) - OF
Tim Fedroff (C ) - OF

*Due to other commitments, I will no longer be writing up comments. However, if you have a question on a particular player or why I ranked the way I did, please comment and I will give a detailed response.

Kansas City Royals Top 20 Prospects

Kansas City Royals Top 20 Prospects

1. Mike Moustakas (A-) - 3B
2. Eric Hosmer (B+) - 1B
3. Dan Cortes (B) - RHP
4. Carlos Rosa (B) - RHP
5. Mike Montgomery (B) - LHP
6. Tim Melville (B) - RHP
7. Danny Duffy (B-) - LHP
8. Danny Gutierrez (B-) - RHP
9. Kila Kaaihue (B-) - 1B
10. Blake Wood (B-) - RHP
11. Johnny Giovatella (C+) - 2B
12. Tyler Sample (C+) - RHP
13. Adrian Ortiz (C+) - OF
14. Jason Taylor (C+) - 3B
15. Joseph Dickinson (C ) - OF
16. Chris Lubanski (C ) - OF
17. Julio Pimentel (C) - RHP
18. Matt Mitchell (C) - RHP
19. Keaton Hayenga (C ) - RHP
20. Derrick Robinson (C ) - OF

Other "C"s who didn't make the cut:

Blake Johnson (C ) - RHP
David Lough (C ) - OF
Chris Nicoll (C ) - RHP
Jose Bonilla (C ) - C
Kelvin Herrera (C ) - RHP
Alex Caldera (C ) - RHP
Rowdy Hardy (C ) - LHP
Sam Runion (C ) - RHP
Jeff Bianchi (C ) - SS
Mitch Maier (C ) - OF
Chris McConnell (C ) - SS

*Due to other commitments, I will no longer be writing up comments. However, if you have a question on a particular player or why I ranked the way I did, please comment and I will give a detailed response.

Minnesota Twins Top 20 Prospects

Minnesota Twins Top 20 Prospects





1. Aaron Hicks (B+) - OF
2. Ben Revere (B+) - OF
3. Wilson Ramos (B) - C
4. Shooter Hunt (B-) - RHP
5. Jose Mijares (B-) - LHP
6. Kevin Mulvey (B-) - RHP
7. Tyler Robertson (B-) - LHP
8. Anthony Swarzak (B-) - RHP
9. Danny Valencia (B-) - 3B
10. Angel Morales (B-) - OF
11. Jeff Manship (C+) - RHP
12. Carlos Gutierrez (C+) - RHP
13. Chris Parmelee (C+) - OF
14. Deolis Guerra (C+) - RHP
15. Rob Delaney (C+) - RHP
16. Luke Hughes (C+) - 3B
17. David Bromberg (C+) - RHP
18. Anthony Slama (C+) - RHP
19. Jason Pridie (C+) - OF
20. Trevor Plouffe (C+) - SS

Other "C"s who didn't make the cut:

Steven Tolleson (C ) - IF
Bobby Lanigan (C ) - RHP
Joe Benson (C ) - OF
Erik Lis (C ) - OF
Charles Nolte (C ) - RHP
Tyler Ladendorf (C ) - SS
Dustin Martin (C ) - OF
Phil Humber (C ) - RHP
Oswaldo Sosa (C ) - RHP
Brian Duensing (C ) - LHP
Mike McCardell (C ) - RHP




*Due to other commitments, I will no longer be writing up comments. However, if you have a question on a particular player or why I ranked the way I did, please comment and I will give a detailed response.

Chicago White Sox Top 20 Prospects

Chicago White Sox Top 20 Prospects


1. Gordan Beckham (B+) - SS
2. Aaron Poreda (B+) - LHP
3. Tyler Flowers (B) - C
4. Brandon Allen (B) - 1B
5. Dayan Viciedo (B-) - 3B
6. Jordan Danks (B-) - OF
7. Chris Getz (B-) - 2B
8. Clayton Richard (C+) - LHP
9. John Shelby (C+) - OF
10. Jose Martinez (C+) - OF
11. John Ely (C+) - RHP
12. Brent Morel (C+) - 3B
13. Jon Gilmore (C+) - 3B
14. Dan Hudson (C+) - RHP
15. Jack Egbert (C+) - RHP
16. Lance Broadway (C+) - RHP
17. Jon Link (C) - RHP
18. Brent Lillibridge (C) - SS
19. Jeff Marquez (C) - RHP
20. Dexter Carter (C) - RHP

Other "C"s who didn't make the cut:

Justin Cassel (C) - RHP
Eduardo Escobar (C) - SS
Cole Armstrong (C) - C
Nevin Griffith (C) - RHP
Kyle McCulloch (C) - RHP
Kenny Williams (C) - OF
Juan Silverio (C) - SS
Brian Omogrosso (C) - RHP
Kent Gerst (C) - OF


*Due to other commitments, I will no longer be writing up comments. However, if you have a question on a particular player or why I ranked the way I did, please comment and I will give a detailed response.

Detroit Tigers Top 20 Prospects

Detroit Tigers Top 20 Prospects



1. Rick Porcello (A-) - LHP
2. Ryan Perry (B) - RHP
3. Casey Crosby (B-) - LHP
4. Cale Iorg (B-) - SS
5. Jeff Larish (B-) - 1B/3B
6. Wilkin Ramirez (B-) - OF
7. Scott Sizemore (C+) - SS/2B
8. Cody Satterwhite (C+) - RHP
9. Scott Green (C+) - RHP
10. Brett Jacobsen (C+) - RHP
11. Casper Wells (C+) - OF
12. Alex Avila (C+) - C
13. Luis Marte (C+) - RHP
14. Chris Lambert (C+) - RHP
15. Casey Fien (C+) - RHP
16. Robbie Weinhardt (C+) - RHP
17. Rudy Darrow (C) - RHP
18. Brandon Hamilton (C) - RHP
19. Dusty Ryan (C) - C
20. Michael Hollimon (C) - SS/3B


Other "C"s who didn't make the cut:

Jon Kibler (C) - LHP
Rayni Guichardo (C) - LHP
Danny Worth (C) - SS/2B
Ryan Strieby (C) - 1B
Brent Clevlen (C) - OF
Darwin de Leon (C) - LHP
Zach Simons (C) - RHP
Charlie Furbush (C) - LHP
Will Rhymes (C) - 2B
Francisco Martinez (C) - 3B
Brandon Douglas (C) - SS
Brent Dlugach (C) - SS
Duane Below (C) - LHP
Kyle Bloom (C) - LHP
Alfredo Figaro (C) - RHP
Mauricio Robles (C) - RHP
Jade Todd (C) - LHP

Note that I have a lot of Tigers prospects listed. This is because I did a lot of research on these players as I took over the Tigers to begin a 30-team dynasty.


*Due to other commitments, I will no longer be writing up comments. However, if you have a question on a particular player or why I ranked the way I did, please comment and I will give a detailed response.

Tampa Bay Rays Top 20 Prospects

Tampa Bay Rays Top 20 Prospects


1. David Price (A) - LHP
2. Tim Beckham (B+) - SS
3. Wade Davis (B+) - RHP
4. Jeremy Hellickson (B+) - RHP
5. Desmond Jennings (B) - OF
6. Reid Brignac (B) - SS
7. Matt Moore (B) - LHP
8. Jeff Niemann (B) - RHP
9. Nick Barnese (B) - RHP
10. Jacob McGee (B-) - LHP
11. Fernando Perez (C+) - OF
12. John Jaso (C+) - C
13. Mitch Talbot (C+) - RHP
14. Jake Jefferies (C+) - C
15. Kyle Lobstein (C+) - LHP
16. Heath Rollins (C+) - RHP
17. Matt Walker (C+) - LHP
18. Reid Fronk (C+) - OF
19. Ryan Royster (C+) - OF
20. Albert Suarez (C+) - RHP



Other "C"s who didn't make the cut:

Chris Mason (C) - RHP
Justin Ruggiano (C) - OF
Wade Townsend (C) - RHP
Emeel Salem (C) - OF
Alex Cobb (C) - RHP
Glenn Gibson (C) - OF
James Houser (C) - LHP
Keyong Kang (C) - OF
Ty Morrison (C) - OF
Rhyne Hughes (C) - 1B
Elias Otero (C) - 2B


*Due to other commitments, I will no longer be writing up comments. However, if you have a question on a particular player or why I ranked the way I did, please comment and I will give a detailed response.

Prospect List Update: 1/9

Sorry guys for not writing as much as I should be. I'm pressed for time lately, so the blurbs about the players will be much less. If you'd like to learn more about players, I suggest buying either a prospect book or going to other sites like Baseball America or Baseball Prospectus for more info. I hope that's ok with everyone. I've finished almost all the grading, so if people are fine with the quicker grades with much less info, then I can churn these out relatively quickly. Feel free to comment if you've got something to say about this.

Toronto Blue Jays Top 20 Prospects

The Blue Jays find themselves in a similar situation with the Orioles except the Jays have a better major league core, but a worse minor league system by far. Every year, the Jays always seem to be in contention but they always fall short in the challenging AL East. Losing A.J. Burnett to division rival Yankees hurts the team drastically in their chances at competing as well. The Rays continue to improve as well and the Jays need to start focusing on rebuilding a younger core, but that will be difficult as well as they have very few impact players in the minors and have one of the worse systems in the league.

2009 Toronto Blue Jays Top 20 Prospects

1. Travis Snider (A-) - OF

Snider is the unanimous top prospect in the Blue Jays system and is also considered a top 10 prospect in all of baseball. Snider is a complete hitter with tremendous power potential and solid plate discipline, though he doesn't hit with the best average and strikes out a lot. However, only 20 years old, Snider is major league ready and performed well in his major league debut at the end of last season. I see Snider as a .275+ hitter with 30+ HR potential.

2. Brett Cecil (B+) - LHP

Cecil is the consensus top pitching prospect in the Jays system. Cecil's repertoire includes a low-90s fastball with an excellent slider (perhaps his best pitch), an average curve, and a developing changeup. Cecil was a closer in college at Maryland, but enjoyed success at AA as a starter before experiencing some difficulty in AAA. In the future, I see Cecil as the #2 or #3 starter for Toronto.

3. J.P. Arencibia (B) - C

With no real dependable catcher up in the majors, Arencibia looks like the future catcher for the Blue Jays. At the plate, Arencibia has excellent power for a catcher, slugging 25 HRs in the minors this year. He also hit for a solid average in the minors at .295. However, Arencibia currently has poor plate discipline and strikes out a lot, so he'll need to work a lot on that if he wants to become a reliable catcher in the future.

4. David Cooper (B) - 1B

The Jays first round pick this past draft, Cooper projects as a solid hitter in the future. Cooper reached High-A in his first year and showed off excellent contact ability and plate discipline. Cooper projects as the Jays future first baseman.

5. Justin Jackson (B-) - SS

Jackson is an athletic shortstop drafted out of high school last year. He has struggled to hit so far, but I see Jackson hitting well in the future and becoming the Jays shortstop in several years.

6. Brad Mills (B-) - LHP

Along with Cecil, Arencibia, and Jackson, Mills was another 2007 draftee and has experienced great success so far. Mills doesn't have as good potential as the others above as Mills projects more as a finesse type pitcher, like Jamie Moyer. Mills' numbers have been excellent so far, but he'll need to remain spot on as he doesn't have electric stuff to fall back on.

7. Kevin Ahrens (C+) - 3B

Yet another 2007 draft pick (first round actually), Ahrens has yet to hit much at all since being drafted, which is the reason why he is lower than some other draftees. Still young, Ahrens has potential to become the Jays third baseman in several years.

8. Ricky Romero (C+) - LHP

Since being drafted #6 in the 2005 draft, Romero has been a major disappointment (especially with the success of players the Jays passed on, such as Troy Tulowitzki). Still, I have hope in some sort of success, as I generally do with players drafted so high as Romero. Just look at Josh Hamilton who turned everything around when everybody had him written off. Now, I'm not saying Romero will turn everything around, in fact, their situations aren't alike at all, but, maybe Romero can still enjoy success?

9. Brad Emaus (C+) - 2B

Emaus is a solid overall second baseman with good contact skills and discipline, though he doesn't offer much upside. But if Aaron Hill doesn't perform, Emaus might get a look by the Jays late in 2009.

10. Marc Rzepczynski (C+) - LHP

Rzepcynski doesn't have great stuff, but showcased excellent numbers last season, including an excellent ground ball/fly ball ratio. He also only allowed 2 homeruns all year, which is incredible.

11. Eric Thames (C) - OF

Thames is a solid looking draft pick from this season who could be a C+ or higher next year.

12. Markus Brisker (C) - OF

Another draft pick from 2008, Brisker is very raw and toolsy (just what I like!). Brisker could rise higher if he shows discipline and results, or he could fan out like a lot of other tools guys.

13. Scott Campbell (C) - 2B

While Campbell doesn't have much upside, he did display excellent plate discipline, with K:BB ratio less than one, and a batting average of .302. Possible role player if he continues this production.

14. Luis Perez (C) - LHP

An intriguing lefty with solid numbers this year and in years past. Should he be a C+? I'm not a fan of the Blue Jays' system.

15. Kenny Wilson (C) - OF

The Blue Jays 2nd round pick this year, Wilson is a very speedy outfielder; similar to the Orioles' Xavier Avery, with less offensive upside.

16. Tyler Pastornicky (C) - SS

An athletic, defensive minded shortstop, Pastornicky needs to drastically improve his offensive game, especially his average as he has little power, if he wants to make an impact.

17. Andrew Liebel (C) - RHP

Finally a right hander! Liebel is a decent pitcher, an inning-eater type from the college ranks.

18. John Tolisano (C) - 2B

Tolisano struggled this season, but has been ranked higher by others in the past. Look for a rebound next season.

19. Curtis Thigpen (C) - C

Well, Thigpen really struggled this year offensively, but he could serve as a reserve catcher for the Jays in the future. Feel free to insert another player here if you so choose, perhaps Robert Ray, but Thigpen's ready to contribute next year to the squad.

20. Gustavo Pierre (C) - OF

A very young (17) tools oriented outfielder just signed this year, Pierre has solid potential as a leadoff type, but has a long, long way to go. I like his potential though, could rise rapidly with results.

Other "C"s who didn't make the cut:

Brian Dopirak- 1B
Fabio Castro - LHP
Robert Ray - RHP
Scott Richmond - RHP
Danny Farquhar - RHP
Chad Beck - RHP
Brian Jeroloman - C
Eric Eiland - OF

Tim Collins - LHP

Baltimore Orioles Top 20 Prospects

The Baltimore Orioles find themselves in a difficult position. As the Yankees and Red Sox keep spending and the Rays are developing into a power, the Orioles have a very slim chance at the playoffs in the near future. Instead of signing middle class free agents, the best thing they can do is to build a core of young players to try to duplicate the Rays success. A great move accelerating this process was last offseason's deal with the Mariners that netted outfielder Adam Jones, reliever George Sherrill, and top prospect pitcher Chris Tillman for pitcher Eric Bedard. Dealing Miguel Tejada also brought some talent to the system. The Orioles have also drafted well recently and possibly have the best prospect in all of baseball with catcher Matt Wieters.




2009 Baltimore Orioles Top 20 Prospects


1. Matt Wieters (A) - C

Possibly the best prospect in all of baseball, Wieters projects as an elite offensive and defensive catcher. Wieters hits with both power and average and has an excellent arm from behind the plate. I expect Wieters to launch himself into the upper ranks of catchers right away and, barring injury, I see a hall-0f-fame caliber player here.

2. Chris Tillman (A-) - RHP

In addition to outfielder Adam Jones already in the majors, Tillman was the other prime piece that came back in the Eric Bedard deal. Tillman really broke through this season, posting a 3.18 ERA, 1.33 WHIP with 154 K's in 133 2/3 innings in AA. Command still remain somewhat of an issue as Tillman walked 65 this past season, but Tillman took a massive stride forward into the pitching prospect elite. His actual repertoire includes a low-90s fastball that reaches 94 often, as well as an impressive curve and a developing changeup. Tillman projects as a possible ace and at the very worst, a solid big league starter.

3. Brian Matusz (B+) - LHP

Baltimore's first round pick in this past June's draft, the lefty Matusz is similar to Tillman in some regards. Their fastballs are very similar, low 90s to 94, but Matusz also possesses an excellent curve and slider and an above-average changeup. He throws all four pitches with solid command. Definitely a top 50 prospect, look for Matusz to make a big jump in his first full season of pro ball next year.

4. Jake Arrieta (B+) - RHP

Another potential ace, Arrieta throws harder (97 mph) than Tillman or Matusz and with good command, but is still developing better secondary pitches, though they are already pretty solid, especially his slider. If Arrieta continues to develop those pitches, the Orioles may find themselves with a trio of young aces.

5. Brandon Erbe (B) - RHP

Erbe is another high upside arm in the Orioles system. In High-A ball this season, Erbe struck out 151 in 150 2/3 innings and had a solid 1.13 WHIP despite a 4.30 ERA. Only 20 years old, Erbe has the profile of a potential #3 pitcher in the big leagues if he continues to develop.

6. Nolan Reimold (B-) - OF

Rather old at 25 for AA, Reimold put up excellent numbers hitting 25 HRs, and a K:BB ratio relatively close to 1. While he may not have the upside of other players, look for Reimold to make an impact this coming season in the majors with the Orioles, possibly in the LF spot, though he may spend more time in a reserve role.

7. Billy Rowell (B-) - 3B

Rowell is a player that is frustrating to follow. Drafted high in the first round in 2006 and being named the Orioles top prospect for the 2007 season, Rowell has struggled to hit in the minors. He has all the tools to be a successful hitter and is only 20, so there is hope he can turn it around and become an excellent third baseman.

8. Troy Patton (B-) - LHP

The key part of the Miguel Tejada trade, Patton tore his labrum which sat him out all last year. It does however show how much the Orioles were impressed with Patton, taking him after finding out about the injury. Patton was a highly regarded prospect before the injury, though you rarely see pitches fully return to form following an injury like a shoulder tear. However, he has the stuff to be a solid starter or at least a reliever.

9. Luis Montanez (C+) - OF

Like Reimold, Montanez is also getting older and at 27, time is running out. However, Montanez, a former high draft pick by the Cubs, performed incredibly well at AA with a .335 average, 26 HR and 97 RBI, before being called up to the majors and hitting .295 with the O's in limited at bats. If the O's decide to deal either Luke Scott or Aubrey Huff, look for Montanez to possibly take a starting spot.

10. Xavier Avery (C+) - OF

The O's second round pick this year, Avery is a very fast outfielder with developing hitting skills. He is still a long way away, but projects as a possible leadoff hitter.

11. Brandon Snyder (C+) - 1B/3B

A converted catcher, Snyder converted to first base after an arm injury. He is a very aggressive hitter, which resulted in a lot of strikeouts (83) and a relatively low amount of walks (29), but Snyder hits with a solid average (.310). He could become a solid major leaguer, but has a long way to go still, as he was only in High-A this year.

12. Kam Mickolio (C+) - RHP

A big righthander at 6'9'' and 255 lbs, Mickolio managed to rise up to the majors from AA last year, but didn't perform well in his initial stint. At every stop, Mickolio had a k/9 higher than 9, and projects as a solid bullpen arm.

13. Zach Britton (C+) - LHP

Britton is a solid sleeper deep in the Orioles system. Though 21 and only in Low-A ball, Britton posted a 3.12 ERA and a 1.13 WHIP and has upside as a potential #4 starter or solid reliever. Likely in the top 10 next year.

14. Chorye Spoone (C+) - RHP

Spoone underperformed this season in AA after being rated as the #8 prospect a year ago by the Orioles. At 23 years old, Spoone could still become a back of the rotation starter or a reliever.

15. David Hernandez (C+) - RHP

An intriguing pitcher, Hernandez doesn't have the best stuff in the world but continues to develop. Others may have him higher.

16. Brian Bergesen (C) - RHP

Bergesen projects as a decent reliever or spot-starter, but doesn't have much upside. He's already up with the big league squad.

17. Pedro Beato (C) - RHP

Beato performed very poorly this season, but I like his stuff enough to include him in the top 20.

18. L.J. Hoes (C) - 2B

A 2008 draftee, Hoes has very good tools, but needs to work on refinement and has a long way to go. Could be an eventual replacement to Roberts though.

19. Brandon Waring (C) - 3B

Recently acquired in the Ramon Hernandez deal, Waring has some pop in his bat (20 HRs in Low-A), but has horrible plate discipline with 156 K's. The power is intriguing.

20. Tony Butler (C) - LHP

Another part of the Eric Bedard deal, Butler is an intriguing, developing pitcher, who would likely be in the top 10 if he was still with the Mariners.



Other "C"s that just missed the cut:

Ryan Adams - 2B
Oliver Drake - RHP
Blake Davis - SS
Matt Angle - OF
Caleb Joseph - C
Mike Costanzo - 3B
Bob McCrory - RHP
James Hoey - RHP
Scott Moore - 3B

New York Yankees Top 20 Prospects

The Evil Empire is back! Much to the chagrin of Red Sox fans like myself, the Yankees have been throwing around some serious coin this offseason, signing star starting pitchers, such as C.C. Sabathia to the richest contract ever for a pitcher (7 years, $161 million) as well as A.J. Burnett to an expensive 5 year, $82.5 million deal. Young possible ace-in-the-making Joba Chamberlain returns to the rotation and former top prospect Phil Hughes figures to surprise many if he can grab the #5 starting spot out of Spring Training. But the Yankees, like all teams, still depend on the farm to produce both role players for the short term and starters for the long term.

New York Yankees Top 20 Prospects for 2009

1. Jesus Montero (B+) - C

Tough call between Montero and Jackson at the number one spot, but I decided to give the nod to Montero, because I feel Jackson may not be as good as advertised and may be another over hyped Yankees prospect. Anyway, Montero is an incredible developing player in his own right. Only 19 years old, Montero led the Yankees organization in hits and has tremendous power potential for a catcher. Big in size at 6'4'' and roughly 225 lbs and growing, a switch to first base may be necessary in the future. Regardless, Montero is on track to be a fabulous offensive player.

2. Austin Jackson (B+) - OF

While many prospect lists have Jackson at the top, I have him second on the list because I don't think he has the same kind of upside as Montero. Jackson is a solid all around athlete, who does everything well for the most part, but lacks an elite tool. He has a chance to play in the majors next season, depending whether or not the Yankees choose to pursue Mike Cameron in a trade, sign a free agent (though the market is dry on pitchers) or keep Melky Cabrera there, who has struggled. I think Jackson will become a solid major league player, who will hit about .280 with 15 HRs a year, but perhaps with more power in the future. Coincidentally, he reminds me a lot of Mike Cameron, but will likely hit fewer HRs than Cameron did during his prime.

3. Dellin Betances (B) - RHP

The top pitching prospect for the Yanks, Betances profiles as a potential ace in the future with a plus fastball, sitting in the 93 to 95 range that can be cranked up to 98. He also has a developing knuckle curve in the lower 80s that is becoming a strong out pitch. He does walk quite a few batters, so control remains a work in progress, but the potential is there. He is only 20 years old, so he's got a few more years of refining his repertoire before he's up with the Yanks.

4. Andrew Brackman (B) - RHP

When the Yankees gave Brackman the biggest signing-bonus to a draftee in franchise history in 2007, they were taking a major risk, not only because of the money at stake, but because Brackman had a major elbow injury that required Tommy John surgery. The Yankees did so because of Brackman's massive upside; he probably has better stuff than Betances. However, because of the TJ surgery and an appendectomy in July, Brackman is just getting on the mound in the Hawaii Winter League. He has all the talent in the world, but we'll have to see how he recovers from his injuries.

5. Zach McAllister (B) - RHP

McAllister really broke out this season and had an incredible year. He doesn't have the greatest stuff, but he was able to compile an impressive 2.19 ERA and 1.05 WHIP in 144 innings, mostly because of his good control. McAllister is, in many ways, similar to lefty Ian Kennedy who has struggled so far at the big league level, but hopefully, for Yankees fans, McAllister doesn't experience the same difficulties.

6. Austin Romine (B) - C

Drafted in the second round out of high school in 2007, Romine has shot up prospect lists everywhere after a successful 2008 campaign hitting .300 with 10 HRs in A ball. He does, however, have unorthodox mechanics hitting and receiving, but he has a very strong arm. In the long term, Romine projects as the team's starting catcher as Jesus Montero will likely move to first base.

7. Mark Melancon (B-) - RHP

Melancon is asserting himself as the best reliever in the system. He not only has the stuff (three solid pitches: fastball, curve, change), but he also has the confidence to succeed at the next level. Look for Melancon to be in the back of the bullpen in 09, and possibly the eventual heir to Mariano Rivera.

8. Alfredo Aceves (C+) - RHP

Aceves pitched very strong near the end of the 2008 season for the Yanks, but will likely be in the bullpen or in AAA after the acquisitions of CC Sabathia and AJ Burnett. Aceves has decent stuff and can be a decent starter, but it would probably have to be with another team.

9. Jairo Heredia (C+) - RHP

Heredia, only 18 years old, has great stuff at a young age. He has a developing fastball in the low-to-mid 90s, while striking out 95 batters in 102.1 innings with a 3.25 ERA in A-ball, very impressive for a player his age. Heredia has excellent potential and with continued success, he will rise through the system.

10. Bradley Suttle (C+) - 3B

Suttle is an excellent developing switch hitter, who despite being drafted in the 4th round of the 2007 draft, was labeled as a first round talent who dropped because of sign ability issues.

11. Jeremy Bleich (C+) - LHP

After first round pick Gerrit Cole didn't sign, Bleich, the team's second rounder, has a lot more pressure on him. Bleich is similar to Ian Kennedy and has been dominating the Hawaii Winter

League. Look for him to travel fast through the minors.

12. Phil Coke (C+) - LHP

Coke is old for a prospect at 26 but looks like a strong candidate for the Yankees bullpen after dominating down the stretch last year.

13. Brett Gardner (C+) - OF

Gardner profiles as a fourth outfielder at the major league level. Gardner has blazing speed and plays solid defense, but the bat remains a question and he has very little power.

14. Humberto Sanchez (C+) - RHP

Sanchez, acquired in the Gary Sheffield trade, has battled a lot of injuries since the trade. He has tons of talent, but its really about him getting on the mound consistently and developing his pitches as he has lost a lot of time because of the injuries.

15. Juan Miranda (C+) - 1B

Though Miranda is 25 years old (unknown for sure, as his records are unclear coming from Cuba), he enjoyed success at AAA, hitting .287 with 12 HRs. He will likely become a solid role player in the future.

16. Francisco Cervelli (C) - C

Once thought the catcher of the future by some, it appears that Cervelli will only become a backup in New York with Montero and Romine waiting in the wings. Cervelli is good defensively, so he could eventually take the role Jose Molina played last season.

17. Brandon Laird (C) - 3B

Laird had a monster year in A ball with 23 HR and 86 RBI. Not one of the more toolsy guys, but it opens your eyes. If he can keep it up, he'll become a good trade chip.

18. Alan Horne (C) - RHP

What a drop-off. Horne was so good in 07 and considered a top 5 Yankees prospect and then had a terrible 08 campaign, and at 26, not much room for a rebound. He stays on this list in hopes of a turnaround.

19. George Kontos (C) - RHP

Kontos is a pretty average pitcher that may have to move to the bullpen in the future. He doesn't have great stuff, but he gets the job done.

20. Pat Venditte (C) - SHP! (Yes, both arms!)

Quite possibly my favorite prospect, and I'm a Sox fan. Venditte is incredible. He throws pretty much equally with both arms and actually had a fantastic season. He is legitimately a guy to watch for because if he masters both arms, he can really fool some hitters.

Here is his famous duel against a switch hitter:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2oD8KzxS14

Other "C"s that didn't make the cut:
Christian Garcia - RHP
David Robertson - RHP
Jonathan Albaladejo - RHP
Jhonathan Ortiz - RHP
Eric Hacker - RHP
Edwar Gonzalez - OF

Damon Sublett - 2B

J. Brent Cox - RHP
Ryan Pope - RHP
Kelvin de Leon - OF
Yaikco Calderon - OF
Eduardo Sosa - OF

Boston Red Sox Top 30 Prospects

For most teams, I'll only be doing the top 20 prospects, but since I'm a Red Sox fan (and so are most of my followers), I'm doing the team's top 30 prospects. Since I'm not Baseball America, the explanations are generally going to be short and to the point.


Boston Red Sox Top 30 Prospects:


1. Lars Anderson (A-) - 1B/DH

Easily Boston's best position prospect, Anderson possesses excellent contact and power skills, along with excellent plate discipline (18 HR, .317 BA, .417 OBP) that will only improve with time. Anderson's a complete hitter already at 21 years old. But with the Red Sox loaded with corner infielders right now and possibly pursuing superstar Mark Teixiera, they can allow Anderson to develop further in the minors. Once Anderson arrives, he should be a middle-of-the-order type hitter who I believe will be a 30 HR-100 RBI contributor to the Red Sox for years to come.

2. Michael Bowden (B+) - RHP

After the graduation of Jon Lester, Clay Buchholz, and Justin Masterson to the majors, Bowden becomes the next great Red Sox pitching prospect. He has great command of his pitches, which include a mid-90s fastball, an excellent 12-6 curveball, and a quickly developing change-up. Though rumored in deals with the Rangers to bring catcher Taylor Teagarden to Boston (which I think is a smart move), Bowden is a potential #2 on an average ballclub, which translates to an excellent #4 or #5 with the Red Sox. He could be up as soon as next year, but will likely spend the majority of the year in the minors due to Boston's surplus of pitchers.

3. Junichi Tazawa (B) - RHP

Tazawa, just signed out of Japan, is an interesting and very controversial prospect. In the Industrial League in Japan with Nippon, Tazawa posted a 13-1 record with an ERA under 1! However, the Industrial League is a pretty weak league compared with college and the minor leagues in the United States. Regardless, Tazawa is still considered the equivalent of a late-first round pick, and with professional experience already under his belt and the possibility of contributing to the team this season, Tazawa is good for the third spot on this list, ahead of 19-year-old first round pick Casey Kelly, who won't contribute next year.

4. Casey Kelly (B) - SS/RHP

Kelly chose to pass up a football scholarship to Tennessee to sign a $3M bonus to play for the Red Sox (turned out to be a good decision with all of Tennessee's struggles this year, huh). Kelly is an intriguing prospect, as he can be either a shortstop or a pitcher. As a shortstop, Kelly possesses solid tools, including plus power potential, but is still very raw and undisciplined. The Red Sox feel he may wind up as a pitcher long term, as he has a fastball in the low-to-mid 90s with a hard curve and solid changeup with good command. It'll be interesting to see how things play out.

5. Ryan Westmoreland (B) - OF

Westmoreland is a kid I am really big on. A fifth-round pick out of high school, Westmoreland slipped because of questions if he could be signed as he had committed to Vanderbilt. He chose to sign with the Sox after receiving a 2M signing bonus. Westmoreland has the potential to be an even better player than Jacoby Ellsbury, as Westmoreland has greater power potential. I can't wait to see how he develops.

6. Daniel Bard (B) - RHP

Bard had an incredible turnaround in his second professional season following a terrible first year after being drafted in the 1st round out of UNC in 2006. Bard has very powerful stuff with a fastball that can reach 100 MPH, though his control is still developing. He projects to be a very solid pullpen arm for the Red Sox in a couple years.

7. Michael Almanzar (B-) - 3B

Tools, tools, tools. Almanzar has TONS of potential and is another favorite of mine. Only 18 years old, Almanzar has a long way to go, but has already played two seasons after being signed out of the Dominican Republic. He has the potential of Miguel Cabrera, but could be a bust as his stats aren't too good so far.

8. Ryan Kalish (B-) - OF

Kalish is another prospect with great potential with below-average results. Kalish projects as a leadoff type hitter and has excellent outfield range. At this point he has below average power, but there is potential for that to develop as well.

9. Josh Reddick (B-) - OF

Reddick is one of the few prospects in the middle section of this list who actually performed exceptionally well. Reddick hit 23 HRs and had an average above .300 for the year, though he doesn't project to continue this in the future. If Reddick does keep hitting, the Sox won't have any choice but to give him a shot. He could be a big leaguer, but it would likely be with another team, like David Murphy, who the Red Sox traded to the Rangers in the Eric Gagne (blehh) deal.

10. Nick Hagadone (B-) - LHP

The first lefthanded pitcher on this list, Hagadone has solid potential as a future starter or bullpen arm. He would be higher on this list had it not been for Tommy John surgery this past June. He has an excellent fastball that tops at around 96-98 MPH along with a sharp slider and changeup both in the low 80s. We'll have to see how he rebounds from TJ.

11. Oscar Tejada (C+) - SS/2B

Tejada's another high-upside player that I like. Ranked lower on other lists, Tejada struggled this season mostly due to injuries, but has the potential to be like Brandon Phillips. He is still only 18, so there is a long way to go, but he has several years to rebound from this year and progress.

12. Yamaico Navarro (C+) - SS/2B

Navarro is like Tejada in that he is another young international signing, though while Navarro had better numbers this year, he doesn't have the same potential. However, if he keeps performing, he will pass Tejada on the depth chart.

13. Bryan Price (C+) - RHP

Price, a supplemental first round pick this year, has the potential for several solid hard pitches.He projects as a reliever in the future, but could surprise and become a starter. He's kind of like Bard with a little weaker stuff.

14. Stolmy Pimental (C+) - RHP

Another teen out of the Dominican Republic, Pimental has the potential to be a very solid big league pitcher, though he is very far away. While he has the potential to possibly be a #3 or #4 as he alreayd has a fastball in the mid-90s, I think he'll wind up as a reliever, though I could be wrong.

15. Luis Exposito (C+) - C

Exposito is seemingly the catcher of the future by default as the Red Sox are extremely weak in that department in the organization. The Red Sox are seeking to trade for a catcher from the Rangers, who are loaded with catching prospects. But Exposito had an excellent 2008 season and really has elevated his status in the organization. If he keeps it up, he could be looking at a starting gig in a few years.

16. Pete Hissey (C+) - OF

Interesting athlete selected in the 4th round by the Sox.

17. Che Hsuan Lin (C+) - OF

The MLB Futures Game MVP has solid speed and defense in center field, but still needs a lot of work in the hitting department if he wants to be much more than a 4th outfielder.

18. Kyle Weiland (C+) - RHP

Third round pick of 2008, Weiland backed up his high draft selection with solid numbers in half a season.

19. Stephen Fife (C+) - RHP

Another early draft pick with solid numbers. Has pretty good control.

20. Derrik Gibson (C+) - IF

Yet another draft pick. Gibson, the team's second round pick, is very athletic, but has to work on refining his skills. He'll have time as he is only 19 years old.

21. Argenis Diaz (C+) - SS

Similar to Alex Cora; plays good defense with not a whole lot of offense.

22. Will Middlebrooks (C+) - SS/3B

Like a lot of other Red Sox prospects, Middlebrooks is an excellent athlete, but needs to refine skills.

23. Anthony Rizzo (C) - OF

Had an excellent rookie season, but was diagnosed with lymphoma. Fortunately, he should be ready to go for the 2009 season.

24. Felix Doubront (C) - RHP

Doubront was added to the 40 man roster so he wouldn't be selected in the Rule 5 Draft, so the Sox must think he has solid stuff to perhaps help out in the bullpen.

25. Kris Johnson (C) - RHP

A supplemental first round pick several years ago, he hasn't developed the way the organizational has wanted, but he did have decent numbers.

26. Ryan Dent (C) - SS/3B

Dent is yet another high upside toolsy player drafted last year, but needs time to develop and work on skills.

27. Jason Place (C) - OF

Place has really been a disappointment after being drafted in the first round in 2006. He has the potential to rebound, but when will he?

28. Zach Daegas (C) - OF

Getting old at 25, but has solid discipline skills and pop. I guess like Kevin Millar, but Daegas won't have anywhere near the impact of Millar.

29. Virgil Vasquez (C) - RHP

Let go by the Tigers, Vasquez is old for a prospect (26), but I'm still a fan.

30. Richard Lentz (C) - RHP

Has a chance to wind up in the Red Sox's bullpen in the distant future.


If you know of any other prospects that may be deserving of consideration, feel free to comment.

Top Prospect Grading System

Before I start my endless rundown of the top prospects in baseball, I'd like to discuss my grading policy first. The grades are in your standard school grade format, A's being the best grades and therefore the best players, while C's are the lowest grade I'll give.

Players who receive an "A" for a grade are prospects who I deem the best in baseball. These prospects have the potential to be bonafide superstars and I feel, barring injury or a catastrophic decline, they will reach that potential. Because no player is guaranteed to enjoy success, no prospect on any of my lists will receive an "A+" grade.

The next tier of prospects are those who receive a "B" for a grade. These players have a solid chance to have successful careers. Some obviously have the chance to become stars, while others may only become role players or leave the league in a few years.

The lowest tier of prospects in my grading system are players who receive "C" grades. These prospects are the most common. Some players who receive a "C" grade can, of course, improve over the years, especially younger players who may be relatively unknown at the time. Older players who receive "C" grades have a lower chance at enjoying success.

In addition to the grades, I will generally provide statistics and written explanations further enhancing my grades and general outlook on their careers or at least the upcoming year.

It's important to note that I tend to grade high-upside type players higher than players who may not have the same potential, but may have better numbers. That might seem obvious to some, but a lot of these high-upside players can turn out to be busts as some hitters may lack good plate discipline, and some pitchers may lack control. Also, a lot of players who may not appear to have the greater potential, turn out to be league MVPs (Dustin Pedroia), so it's really one's personal philosophy in regards to grades.

2008 World Series Preview: Philadelphia Phillies vs Tampa Bay Rays

With 20 minutes until Game 1, I think its appropriate for a World Series preview.

First off, wow. Who would have thought the Rays would have made it to the World Series? I figured they would improve off of last season and have a solid shot at a .500 season, but they far surpassed those expectations obviously. Now, as a diehard Red Sox fan, I am shocked. I honestly thought we had it all along. Even when down 7-0 in Game 5, I had a sense it wasn't over; I thought it was still our series, we were the defending champs. When the Sox came back and won Game 5, I was certain it was ours. I still felt we were the better team, that the Rays couldn't beat us, not this year at least. I also kept thinking back to 2004 and 2007 with the historic come back against the Yankees when down 3-0 and last year coming back in an identical situation we got ours into this year, down 3-1. Once we won Game 6, it only emphasized my arrogance, I figured Game 7 would be the easiest; I figured the Rays would be demoralized. But no, the Rays defied the odds again and beat the defending champs and are now playing for the World Series. Incredible.

But the Rays' job is far from over as they face a formidable foe in the Philadelphia Phillies. The Phillies were also underdogs this season, with the majority of the attention on the Chicago Cubs as well as the Milwaukee Brewers and Los Angeles Dodgers after those two teams acquired C.C. Sabathia and Manny Ramirez. However, this deflection of attention may have been a blessing in disguise as they are the last team standing in the National League.

Anyway, to the preview:

Hitting:

Philadelphia Phillies:
C - Carlos Ruiz
1B - Ryan Howard
2B - Chase Utley
3B - Pedro Feliz
SS - Jimmy Rollins
LF - Pat Burrell
CF - Shane Victorino
RF - Jayson Werth
DH - Matt Stairs, Geoff Jenkins, Greg Dobbs

Tampa Bay Rays
C - Dioner Navarro
1B - Carlos Pena
2B - Akinori Iwamura
3B - Evan Longoria
SS - Jason Bartlett
LF - Carl Crawford
CF - BJ Upton
RF/DH - Rocco Baldelli, Gabe Gross, Cliff Floyd, Willy Aybar

I have to give the advantage to the Phillies here. The Rays just cannot match the trio of Ryan Howard, Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins, along with Pat Burrell, Shane Victorino and Jayson Werth. The Rays have a nice nucleus of Longoria, Crawford, Upton and Pena, but they don't match up with the Phillies in my opinion.

Advantage: Phillies

Defense:
The Rays have the advantage here. All the Rays can play great defense. Crawford and Upton are some of the fastest guys in the majors in the outfield, while Longoria and Bartlett perhaps form the best left side of the infield defensively in the majors. Carlos Pena is also an underrated fielder at first base. The Phillies, on the other hand, aren't as good. Ryan Howard is a defensive liability at first base, but he's sure to play DH when playing in Tampa (or really St. Petersburg). The Rays are also used to the artificial turf and the dome in terms of fielding fly balls at Tropicana Field.

Advantage: Rays

Starting Pitching:

Phillies
1. Cole Hamels
2. Brett Myers
3. Jamie Moyer
4. Joe Blanton

Rays
1. James Shields
2. Scott Kazmir
3. Matt Garza
4. Andy Sonnanstine

I think the Rays have a solid advantage here, though it may be closer than people realize. I see Hamels actually having an advantage over Shields in Game 1, but I think the rest of the Rays pitchers are better than the Phillies' in the other matchups.

Advantage: Rays

Bullpens:

Phillies
CL - Brad Lidge (R)
SU - Ryan Madsen (R)
SU - JC Romero (L)
RP - Chad Durbin (R)
RP - Rudy Seanez (R)
RP - Scott Eyre (L)
RP - Clay Condrey (L)
LR - Kyle Kendrick (R)

Rays
RP (CL?) - David Price (L)
RP (CL?) - Dan Wheeler (R)
RP - Grant Balfour (R)
RP - JP Howell (L)
RP - Chad Bradford (R)
RP - Jason Hammel (R)
RP - Trevor Miller (R)
LR - Edwin Jackson (R)
CL - Troy Percival (R) - Will he be healthy to go?

I think the bullpens are pretty close. While the Rays probably have better depth in the pen, they don't have a "sure thing" at the end of the game that the Phillies have with closer Brad Lidge. Lidge went perfect this season, without blowing a single save opportunity. However, the big question mark in the bullpens is whether David Price can step in and be "the man" for the Rays. I wonder whether he can handle the pressure, but if he can, watch out. Price may be the difference maker this series. However, I like the Phillies here simply because of Lidge.

Advantage: Phillies

Verdict:

I see this as a series that could go either way, but I just can't take the Rays. I see the Phillies winning in seven. I feel the Rays may already feel like they've won and there could be a letdown, but then again, it is the World Series. I think the difference maker of the series is Jimmy Rollins; I think he's primed for a big series.

Regardless, its sure to be a very exciting series and either side could wind up on top.

Winner of the 2008 World Series: Philadelphia Phillies