Post by Deleted on Dec 28, 2012 12:19:13 GMT -5
For This List,
I'm going to do a brief summary of the first 30 Players after which it will just be rankings.Since this is going to take awhile I'm going to post it in sections and modify it from time to time.
#1)Dylan Bundy-Some people make the arguement for Profar.I am not 1 of those people.Bundy has shown in his brief time that he's already quite developed and polished for a HS arm.His velocity movement and all of that is as elite as elite gets.He really sets himself apart though with his approach on the mound and his understanding of the "Craft" of pitching.He keeps hitters off balance, understands the concept of changing eye levels,changing speeds.And he has the ability to not just throw for strikes but throw "Good Strikes" which most MLB guys have a hard time commanding the ball like he does.All in all you consider the amount of development he needed to get to the majors and his track record in the minors and he surely makes a very good case to be #1.
#2)Jurickson Profar-All of the baseball community seemingly loves Profar.His defense and his bat at SS have really opened eyes.As well as the fact like Bundy he is so polished and developed for a 19-20 year old kid.He has good power and great contact skills.While he's not a burner he can rob a bag here and there.He's not a Jose Iglesias or Hak-Ju Lee type SS defensively but he more then holds his own.The complete package of profar is really why he stands out for me.Not only can he stick at SS but he's shown he can play 2B and 3B sufficently if needed and I have no doubt if someone wanted him to play LF he could.In the MLB your looking at a SS who could knock 20+ HR with 30-40 2B rob ya about 20 bags and do it all while hitting close to or above 300.
#3)Gerrit Cole-BEST PURE STUFF in the minors.And it's not really even close.He has a 100MPH fastball that I personally haven't witnessed drop below 96 since he's been in the minors.His breaking stuff is outrageous and thats probally a understatement.He was the #1 pick in 2011 which was truely an amazing Draft Class for a reason.The 1 place where people can truely nit pick Cole is his Control and Command.While he can throw strikes pretty consistently it does waiver from time to time when he opens up his front side in the delievery too much.When things are going right though he's as unhittable as it gets.All of that combined with the Picture Perfect Pitchers Frame and you have a absolute true #1 on your hands.
#4)Oscar Taveras-I've offically bought into Oscar.The issue with him has always been and to a small degree still is how much power will he truely have.Since he's not a basestealer in much capacity to go along with his truely excellent contact ability with not having much power was a real concern.Well that has all but subsided at this point as he really took a leap forward in that regard.He's always going to be able to hit about 300+ at any level and if the power keeps up at that rate it has with his incredibly almost amazing K/BB Ratio you can see a truely outstanding hitter in the making.As far as defense goes your talking RF most likely and he should have enough arm for the position.He'll hit #3 for a championship club in my opinion and look for him to be doing that rather soon.
#5)Wil Myers-I love this kid for multiple reasons.First off he was drafted as a C.Secondly he has faced some hardships in his Minor League Career and with his 2012 campaign showed why people have had faith in him.He removed a crucial piece of his swing mechanics prior to this season which KC had him using to try and see more pitches.Well after that was gone his power really improved and more importantly not so much just hitting it over the fence but he started making more consistent good contact.He's never going to be a burner and defense won't be his calling card.But he should be a formidable RF in the lineup with a solid to above average arm that guns fools down from afar.
#6)Zack Wheeler-This kid is easily the most underrated Top 10 prospect in the Minors.People for some reason don't realize the monster that is Zack Wheeler.His fastball which he consistently rings in at 94-97MPH stays with him the whole game and he has the absolute best natural movement on his fastball that I've personally witnessed.His breaking stuff is plus as well and while his changeup did need some work he took major steps forward in 2012 with it.One of the issues with Wheeler in years past was his mechanics and the fact that his command wasn't always top notch.Well yet again he improved his command and his mechanics have eased on being such a issue.If it breaks right your looking at the future Matt Cain.(A guy who should be considered a #1 but can never seem to get his credit.)
#7)Trevor Bauer-I don't know why because Kevin Towers made a mistake they want to bash Bauer.Maybe it's because he has above average command of 6+ above average or plus pitches.His fastball which rings 95+ consistently is deadly but sometimes a bit too straight.His best secondary pitch is his curveball and its a real hammer.It has a little arm side run and then just fall off the edge of a table.He throws 2 diffrent sliders as well as a Reverse Slider.He throws 2 diffrent changeups and he will occasionally use 2 diffrent fastballs although he prefers the 4 Seamer heavily.The thing that sticks out about Bauer is his demeanor on the mound.He's a fighter in every sense of the word.He' also a very cereberal pitcher which in other words means he likes to outsmart hitters more then overpower them.His 2 biggest issues on the mound so far have been pitching up in the zone and he tends to get a little K happy which can lead to the WHIP issues he has had from time to time.All in all though with Bauer on your squad he might not be the pure Ace in the old sense of the word.But he's going to lead your rotation you can count on that.
#8)Taijuan Walker-What to say about good ol' Walker.He has the most explosive fastball in part due to his delievery and natural downward plane.He's incredibly raw which leads to being a huge bust candidate.But if things were to go right for him I have no issue in saying he could be the very best on this list.Again with all young pitchers the issue really is Command and Control and with Walker its also that and holding velocity into starts.He seems to have a issue with having the "Wind sucked out of him" which means he'll give up a hit or walk and there's a corresponding decrease in velocity and he has the ability to really let a inning snowball.But with his Size Stuff and the fact he's still so young and really ahead of the curve leads me to believe he'll be just fine.He also recently bought a house away from california near his family in Arizona to be closer to the Mariners training facility which just shows you that he's truely commited to this.A true potential #1 the skys the limit for Young Master SkyWalker lol.
#9)Javier Baez-Some would say this is a aggressive ranking.But i wouldn't agree.Baez had some concerns about moving to 3B but after this season those have really simmered down and now there's a real chance he's a SS.So with that considered looking at the type of bat he will have(All Star Caliber 1 of the best in the buisness) he should be considered a elite type prospect.He truely has the best bat speed in the minors and maybe the best in about a decade worth of talent.He's been compared to Gary Sheffield in that regard.He's the definition of a hacker and while that hasn't been much of a problem yet.He will need to dial it back a bit if he's going to succeed in the upper levels.His defense at SS is more then enough if not average to above in my opinion he's got the quickness agility instincts to handle it.His power is close to if not a 80 on the 20-80 Scouting Scale.The ball flies off his bat with amazing authority.It's truely a pleasure to even watch batting practice with Baez.Also as a funny side note to just how underrated he was in the Draft.He was considered to basically have no ability to steal a base for ya.Well that's simply not true he stole bases this year at a incredible clip.I believe he nabbed 24 bags but out of just 27 attempts which would be considered plus base stealing ability.Which proves my point more about the instincts and natural feel for the game.He just looks like a ballplayer.
#10)Travis D'Arnaud-A catcher with his kind've bat has to be held in a high regard.Simply because there's not many like him.He has solid power with the ability to hit around or slightly more then 20HR a season.He has excellent contact ability and should be able to maintain a solid to great average throughout his career.He truely handles a pitching staff quite well and knows how to call a game.His defense behind the plate is good nothing out of this world but very solid.He has a solid arm and he's by no means a bat first catcher.He's just more bat then glove.He's got excellent makeup displayed by how well he's handled being traded not once but twice now.Both times as a funny side note for a Cy Young winning SP.(Halladay and Dickey).
#11)Tyler Skaggs-I really like this lefty.He has good velocity excllent breaking stuff and very very very good command.He has the kind've pitchability that people drool over.Don't get it confused though he's not the smoke and mirrors type he can straight out gun you down.He's on the lankier side but he repeats his delievery well for his size.He has a very good idea of what he's doing on the mound and how he wants to attack a batter.In some cases a guy has better stuff then he is a pitcher and sometimes a guy is a better pitcher then his stuff.Skaggs is the latter.Not a ace but someone who can be in the front of the rotation and really eat some innings for ya.
#12)Jose Fernandez-This kid's curveball is a absolute beast.It litterally made my jaw drop when I saw it it's that unbelieveable.His fastball also is consistently plus and while he is on the hefty side he trimmed down a bit and as long as he doesnt become overly heavy that shouldn't be a issue.If your asking me I'd tell you your looking at the future ace in Miami.But even if i'm being a bit over confident he should be a very very good #2 with a real shot at being a top30 type MLB guy.
#13)Jameson Taillon-The only thing he's done wrong since being in the minors was getting so much hype.Maybe second to only Gerrit Cole in terms of pure stuff.Taillon truely has a outstanding arsenal at his disposal.His fastball curveball and slider are all plus plus pitches.Which is incredibly hard to find.He has solid command but deffinately needs to improve and refine on that front.He really needs to work on his changeup as the main issue is not changing speed effectively enough and it comes out a bit hard.The size and pure stuff alone are enough to have the chance at being a true #1 and if his command comes along as hoped then watch out because taillon could truely ruin some careers along his path.
#14)Francisco Lindor-He really doesn't get much love maybe because he's in Cleveland and maybe because he was considered the best SS in 2011 and now Javier Baez has really gained on him with being able to stick at SS.But nevertheless Lindor has some truely great gifts.First and Foremost he has a plus glove and plus defense all around.He is one of those highlight reel SS who you'd pay to see take pre game grounders.On the offensive side he makes hard good consistent contact but he'll never have much power.He should be able to hit a good amount of doubles in his time though.For speed he's not a true burner type but he's got above average speed with the real potential of stealing 25 or so bag maybe on instincts more then anything.Lindor in my opinion is a pretty safe bet to be a solid to above average MLB regular who will win gold gloves and flirt with all star nods throughout his career.
#15)Archie Bradley-Easily 1 of my favorites in all of the minors.His pure stuff is outstanding with a 95-98MPH fastball and truely devastating curve.He was a standout in football and basketball as well with the offer to be a QB for the Oklahoma Sooners.He has outstanding strikeout ability but absolutely sucked command wise.His ideal pitchers frame along with his stuff makes him a true #1 potential type.He also has a big bust cloud hanging over his head until he refines some things but I obviously have alot faith.
#16)Xander Bogaerts-He really should be higher on this list.But I'll give him some time to really show people he's no 1 season beauty that his ability is legit and he's oozing with talent.First and Foremost it starts with his stupid power.We're talking 30+ HR at the MLB level no question.He's a touch aggresive but he handles the bat incredibly well and makes really good contact so he should be able to maintain a strong average.At SS it's not that he's bad it's his size that gets in the way.Unfortunately he probally will lose a step as the years go on but I'm of the belief he could handle SS reasonably for a few years at the beginning of his career.Either way you could make this guy your DH and he would be able to let the bat do it's damage.I really think we're looking at a future MVP in the making.AA was incredibly advanced for his age and he did extremely well.
#17)Shelby Miller-At 1 Time he was looked at as possibly the best arm in the minors.And while he did have a rough season or start I should say in 2012.There's no reason he's not still in that discussion.His fastball has alot of life to it electric is the term I hear alot.He's come a long way in terms of his off speed stuff and really developing as a pitcher who can get you out not just over power ya.There's some work left to be done for sure but I think St.Louis has their next anchor for the 10+ years of his career.
#18)Bubba Starling-If you want to see the next Once in a Generation type talent.You dont have to go much farther then Bubba Starling.He has plus tools all over the board including plus power plus speed plus arm plus makeup plus defense.The only real question is just how much can he barrel the ball.In my opinion he's going to be a 300+ hitter but even if it didn't go that well just on pure talent we're talking a 280 hitter at worst.He can do a little bit of everything and as a nice blanket of security he was also a deadly SP in HS along with a All-State Nod in both Basketball and Football.He legit could probally go pro in all 3.Big time upside I think the Baseball Community has to prepare themselves.Harper and Trout were appetizers to what Bubba will be.
#19)Mike Zunino-Probally a bit too high.But he's won me over.His bat is what did it for me at least and boy oh boy does it have a chance to be special with his bat speed batters eye and just natural hitting ability your looking at 20-25HR easily and a 300-320 AVG.To be honest not that there similar players but just in terms of caliber of talent.I think Buster Posey might have to push over as the best catcher in baseball soon.He also won the Golden Spikes award in 2012.
#20)Nick Castellanos-Me personally I'm not such a fan.But you can't deny the potential of this kid.He has plus contact skills.He really knows how to barrel up the ball.He should have solid power as a pro but there is some question to just how much.That's something to keep a very close eye on moving forward because if the power doesn't come as hoped he could make a pretty sizeable nose dive down most peoples list.He can handle 3B in the MLB just fine but in Detroit obviously he's not going to tell Miggy what to play.So for now he's a RF he doesn't have the ability to play CF regularly but he could handle it in small doses.The arm is solid to above average so RF should be no problem and I don't think he'd have to be a LF only type.
#21)Christian Yelich-He's certainly got the top notch bat.He's going to have no problem winning batting titles throughout his career.And considered he is rather athletic its sort've crazy to think hes a CF who was drafted as a 1B.The question has always been and will continue to be how much power will he really have?Some people say just average at 15-20HR some say above average so closer to 20-25 but the jury is deffinately still out on that aspect.As far as defense goes he has a average arm and he's not the fastest guy in the world so it wouldn't be crazy to think LF is down the line but not anytime soon.With this 1 your buying the bat and boy will it be a special 1.
#22)Mike Olt-I really like this bat as well.He has truely plus power and it's too all fields.While he won't have a Adam Dunn type average don't expect 300 either.A reasonable comparison might be Modern Day Tex.In the 260-270 Range.But if he's hitting you 30+ HR I don't think that's a real issue.The defense at 3B is respectable if not solid.He's got the arm for the position but in Texas they'll probally have him at 1B DH and RF/LF alot.Which is fine because he's enough of a athlete to handle it.
#23)Miguel Sano-Very Similar to Mike Olt except he probally won't be able to handle 3B.He's more then likely guranteed as a 1B.But that bat is more then worth it.The type who could hit 30HR in a bad season.He truely has amazing and gifted power.Nice contact ability too but he does whiff alot.Probally a OK average at best maybe a smidge more but never will it be better then 250-260 in his best days.
#24)Byron Buxton-I really like this kids tools.He's got plenty of speed a real burner on the paths.His bat should produce plenty of power maybe above average at best.The hit tool hasn't been a real question up to date and I'm of the belief with the way he handles the bat head his mechanics and natural hitting ability he should be able to barrel up the ball enough to have a solid average.A very interesting 5 Tool Player to keep a eye on moving forward.
#25)Noah Syndergaard-I don't know what the hell is a matter with people.This kid throws in the upper 90s with good command and movement.His curveball is a true hammer with 12-6 Break and it looks like it just falls out of thin air.Truely a plus pitch.And that changeup has shown plus potential as well but may be more of a above average pitch down the line.His size plays into the natural downward plane which is why he has such a heavy fastball.It's hard to hit his heat into the air.Absolutely 1 of my favorites and I think a dark horse future ace.
#26)Danny Hultzen-A Lefty with Hultzens velocity is a rare bird for sure.The issue is once he hit AAA he seemed to forget what the hell he was doing.Either way he throws a Mid 90s Fastball with relative ease and he has a very repeatable easy delievery.His off-speed stuff is excellent as is usually expected from LHP.He does need to work on his slider though as that is really the 1 of the 3 that needs some work.The changeup and fastball are plus though and he does have very good control and command.Although once again that AAA stint murdered his ability to control.If he was to recover nicely next season he could find his way right back up this list again.
#27)Gary Sanchez-Jesus Montero 2.0? Not quite but close.Sanchez has a thunderous bat that really hits the ball with authority.Behind the plate he's certainly no Ivan Rodriguez but he more then holds his own.His arm is a weapon and once he refines the craft that is catching watchout.It's been a tight debate between Sanchez and Zunino for Top C but both really have a case.Sanchez should be able to hit close to 300 with about 25HR each season.Really settling into the middle of a lineup.There's no real worry about being a DH or 1B because his defense is good enough.
#28)Carlos Correa-Very exciting prospect.Was the surprise #1 overall in 2012.Got a very intriguing bat with serious power potential.There is some debate as to how much will he really hit.The other issue he finds himself in is will his size move him off SS.And that my friends is 1 of the most heated debates I've seen about a prospect in some time.While he's not a burner he does have some speed and agility and if your asking me I think he will stick at SS at least for some time.The bat is where the money is as we could be discussing a 25HR type bat.
#29)George Springer-The first thing you hear when Springer is mentioned is he Ks too much.But that's not a fair assesment.He does have alot of swing and miss to his game.But he very productively counters that by having plus patience at the plate.So they really do counter act each other.As far as his bat goes it could be a very nice one with Springer having the chance to have 30/30 Type seasons.His speed is a real gift and he can hustle trust me.He has a plus arm from the OF and can really gun fools down.A legit 5 tool talent and I believe a stud in the making.
#30)Delino Deshields-Some might say this is too aggresive and I couldn't disagree more.Had there not been some kid named Billy stealing all those bases in Penascola then Deshields wouldve been the guy we spoke of.He has 101 SB in the season to go with 113 Runs Scored and 12HR.He has a whole lot of tools and the reason he's so good on the basepaths is because of his footspeed which is truely plus.I like the bat alot and even though he's limited to 2B especially in fantasy that could be a huge plus for him as well.I would expect him to hit about 10-15HR each season with 50SB and a 270-280AVG.The defense at 2B should be more then respectable in fact it should be great.
#31)Jonathan Singleton-Big Boy 1B for sure.Bat has a whole lot of potential.He's actually very well built for his size.He moves well for a 1B and when he was placed in LF back in Philly he really didn't do all so bad.Now in Houston with 1B wide open for him he doesn't have to be at a unnatural position.The bat really opened eyes for me as he's a tough out.While he does whiff a decent amount it's really a battle each AB.Down the line I could easily see 25-30 maybe even 30+ HR as he comes to develop as a better hitter.The average side of things remains to be seen but I don't think it will be bad.
#32)Albert Almora-Plus Plus Makeup.A true leader in every sense.This kid is super impressive in center.Really quite a gifted athlete.Had a nice career for Team USA as a amateur.The bat will have above average power and he should always hit for really good AVG.The arm is solid not amazing but he really makes up for any physical shortcomings with his instincts.I'd say he was 1 of my favorites from 2012 easily.
#33)Matt Barnes-I really like this Righty from UConn.Nice power arm relatively polished and hes got solid to above average command of his arsenal.He also has some very good breaking stuff and from what I've seen the changeup is nice as well.He has some great pitchability to him and I could deffinately see him as a future #1 on a team.He has the build for it and certainly has the command for it.I think he allows his Above Average stuff that's really more suited for a 2 to play up.Plus fastball deep into starts with a plus curveball.Dylan Bundy got off to a crazy 30 Innings scoreless streak to start his career.Had Barnes not begun his career at the same identical time.His stretch in Greenville would've been just as impressive.Although he was a college pitcher so Bundy does the take the cake you can't deny the level of amazement that goes with his 5 Start Greenville Career.
#34)Carlos Martinez-I'm not going to deny this kid's pure stuff because it's very good.And I fully expect him to be a lockdown closer come his time.But that's where the issue lies.I cannot in good faith say he will be a starter because his delivery is just simply too violent.It's the type of delivery that I truely get scared on each throw.That being said he's also a bit undersized and draw comparisons to Pedro Martinez because of his stuff.If the mechanics ever did improve which I don't see happening he has front line potential.But your more then likely looking at a future Chapman/Kimbrel type closer and probally Mottes heir to the throne.He does have Triple Digit Heat and a Plus breaking ball so it's not like he's not impressive but he really could be so much more.
#35)Kevin Gausman-I'm a HUGE believer in this kids stuff no joke.The plus fastball he has now is absolutely electric.The plus changeup he features now can be un hittable.He does need to develop a breaking ball of some kind but I have alot of faith in this kid moving along just fine.His command is excellent.And the beauty of all this is he still has quite a bit of projection left on him.I could see his fastball gaining another tick or 2 to really put it over the top.His delivery isn't funky or bad it's just diffrent with a high leg raise so it really leads to deception.
#36)Kyle Zimmer-I had a hard time picking which one to put first.So I decided they should be back to back.Zimmer has alot of work to do since he's so new to pitching for a college guy.His fastball hits 95-96 regularly and he holds it deep into starts.He has average command at the moment but it's improving rapidly.He does have a pretty deadly Curveball that he's not afraid to throw at will.He can place it where ever he chooses.Doesn't have a true hammer break 12-6 but it's never the less quite impressive.His changeup at the moment isn't serviceable because of how new to pitching he is but he has shown some serious potential with it.I could very easily see him being 1 of the top arms in the minors at some point down the line.If KC development staff don't ruin him first as they usually do with their highly touted arms.
#37)Kaleb Cowart-I probally like him a little more then I should.But the kids bat is impressive.Coming into his Draft Class he was viewed as 1 of the top pitchers from the HS ranks.He made it quite clear he wanted to hit the Angels obliged and it looks like they made the right choice.He has above average power solid contact skills from both sides.He does need to work on his Left side a little bit but he already has plus bat speed from both sides.Along with his plus arm he'll be just fine at the hot corner.Look Out for this 1 he could be a steady riser.
#38)Nolan Arenado-Attitude Issues Galore.Along with a ? of how much power.It's easy for him to get overlooked.But the kid does have some serious talent.The bat should produce a great average with at least average power.His defense at the hot corner isn't to die for but also not bad and he has improved alot on that front.He doesn't K alot and he does produce alot of runs regardless of how much power he has.Playing in Coors will certainly help.
#39)Rymer Liriano-He gets alot of power out of his bat.The Power/Speed combo is very intriguing and he does have solid contact skills.He's somewhat of a 5 Tool talent and while he probally will be a RFer don't let that shy away from the fact the kid's got some wheels.So far the power hasn't showed up much in games but he was also quite young for AA and he carried himself respectably.I look for him to make a step forward in the near future.
#40)Aaron Sanchez-Really nice arm.Serious fastball.Good offspeeed stuff.good command.There's a good amount to be said of Sanchez and while I personally don't have a interest in him he is a solid righty.Should be a #2 in due time and since Toronto traded all of their prospects they need him to work out.He does need to work on refining his command some alot really but he's shown alot of promise.
I'm going to do a brief summary of the first 30 Players after which it will just be rankings.Since this is going to take awhile I'm going to post it in sections and modify it from time to time.
#1)Dylan Bundy-Some people make the arguement for Profar.I am not 1 of those people.Bundy has shown in his brief time that he's already quite developed and polished for a HS arm.His velocity movement and all of that is as elite as elite gets.He really sets himself apart though with his approach on the mound and his understanding of the "Craft" of pitching.He keeps hitters off balance, understands the concept of changing eye levels,changing speeds.And he has the ability to not just throw for strikes but throw "Good Strikes" which most MLB guys have a hard time commanding the ball like he does.All in all you consider the amount of development he needed to get to the majors and his track record in the minors and he surely makes a very good case to be #1.
#2)Jurickson Profar-All of the baseball community seemingly loves Profar.His defense and his bat at SS have really opened eyes.As well as the fact like Bundy he is so polished and developed for a 19-20 year old kid.He has good power and great contact skills.While he's not a burner he can rob a bag here and there.He's not a Jose Iglesias or Hak-Ju Lee type SS defensively but he more then holds his own.The complete package of profar is really why he stands out for me.Not only can he stick at SS but he's shown he can play 2B and 3B sufficently if needed and I have no doubt if someone wanted him to play LF he could.In the MLB your looking at a SS who could knock 20+ HR with 30-40 2B rob ya about 20 bags and do it all while hitting close to or above 300.
#3)Gerrit Cole-BEST PURE STUFF in the minors.And it's not really even close.He has a 100MPH fastball that I personally haven't witnessed drop below 96 since he's been in the minors.His breaking stuff is outrageous and thats probally a understatement.He was the #1 pick in 2011 which was truely an amazing Draft Class for a reason.The 1 place where people can truely nit pick Cole is his Control and Command.While he can throw strikes pretty consistently it does waiver from time to time when he opens up his front side in the delievery too much.When things are going right though he's as unhittable as it gets.All of that combined with the Picture Perfect Pitchers Frame and you have a absolute true #1 on your hands.
#4)Oscar Taveras-I've offically bought into Oscar.The issue with him has always been and to a small degree still is how much power will he truely have.Since he's not a basestealer in much capacity to go along with his truely excellent contact ability with not having much power was a real concern.Well that has all but subsided at this point as he really took a leap forward in that regard.He's always going to be able to hit about 300+ at any level and if the power keeps up at that rate it has with his incredibly almost amazing K/BB Ratio you can see a truely outstanding hitter in the making.As far as defense goes your talking RF most likely and he should have enough arm for the position.He'll hit #3 for a championship club in my opinion and look for him to be doing that rather soon.
#5)Wil Myers-I love this kid for multiple reasons.First off he was drafted as a C.Secondly he has faced some hardships in his Minor League Career and with his 2012 campaign showed why people have had faith in him.He removed a crucial piece of his swing mechanics prior to this season which KC had him using to try and see more pitches.Well after that was gone his power really improved and more importantly not so much just hitting it over the fence but he started making more consistent good contact.He's never going to be a burner and defense won't be his calling card.But he should be a formidable RF in the lineup with a solid to above average arm that guns fools down from afar.
#6)Zack Wheeler-This kid is easily the most underrated Top 10 prospect in the Minors.People for some reason don't realize the monster that is Zack Wheeler.His fastball which he consistently rings in at 94-97MPH stays with him the whole game and he has the absolute best natural movement on his fastball that I've personally witnessed.His breaking stuff is plus as well and while his changeup did need some work he took major steps forward in 2012 with it.One of the issues with Wheeler in years past was his mechanics and the fact that his command wasn't always top notch.Well yet again he improved his command and his mechanics have eased on being such a issue.If it breaks right your looking at the future Matt Cain.(A guy who should be considered a #1 but can never seem to get his credit.)
#7)Trevor Bauer-I don't know why because Kevin Towers made a mistake they want to bash Bauer.Maybe it's because he has above average command of 6+ above average or plus pitches.His fastball which rings 95+ consistently is deadly but sometimes a bit too straight.His best secondary pitch is his curveball and its a real hammer.It has a little arm side run and then just fall off the edge of a table.He throws 2 diffrent sliders as well as a Reverse Slider.He throws 2 diffrent changeups and he will occasionally use 2 diffrent fastballs although he prefers the 4 Seamer heavily.The thing that sticks out about Bauer is his demeanor on the mound.He's a fighter in every sense of the word.He' also a very cereberal pitcher which in other words means he likes to outsmart hitters more then overpower them.His 2 biggest issues on the mound so far have been pitching up in the zone and he tends to get a little K happy which can lead to the WHIP issues he has had from time to time.All in all though with Bauer on your squad he might not be the pure Ace in the old sense of the word.But he's going to lead your rotation you can count on that.
#8)Taijuan Walker-What to say about good ol' Walker.He has the most explosive fastball in part due to his delievery and natural downward plane.He's incredibly raw which leads to being a huge bust candidate.But if things were to go right for him I have no issue in saying he could be the very best on this list.Again with all young pitchers the issue really is Command and Control and with Walker its also that and holding velocity into starts.He seems to have a issue with having the "Wind sucked out of him" which means he'll give up a hit or walk and there's a corresponding decrease in velocity and he has the ability to really let a inning snowball.But with his Size Stuff and the fact he's still so young and really ahead of the curve leads me to believe he'll be just fine.He also recently bought a house away from california near his family in Arizona to be closer to the Mariners training facility which just shows you that he's truely commited to this.A true potential #1 the skys the limit for Young Master SkyWalker lol.
#9)Javier Baez-Some would say this is a aggressive ranking.But i wouldn't agree.Baez had some concerns about moving to 3B but after this season those have really simmered down and now there's a real chance he's a SS.So with that considered looking at the type of bat he will have(All Star Caliber 1 of the best in the buisness) he should be considered a elite type prospect.He truely has the best bat speed in the minors and maybe the best in about a decade worth of talent.He's been compared to Gary Sheffield in that regard.He's the definition of a hacker and while that hasn't been much of a problem yet.He will need to dial it back a bit if he's going to succeed in the upper levels.His defense at SS is more then enough if not average to above in my opinion he's got the quickness agility instincts to handle it.His power is close to if not a 80 on the 20-80 Scouting Scale.The ball flies off his bat with amazing authority.It's truely a pleasure to even watch batting practice with Baez.Also as a funny side note to just how underrated he was in the Draft.He was considered to basically have no ability to steal a base for ya.Well that's simply not true he stole bases this year at a incredible clip.I believe he nabbed 24 bags but out of just 27 attempts which would be considered plus base stealing ability.Which proves my point more about the instincts and natural feel for the game.He just looks like a ballplayer.
#10)Travis D'Arnaud-A catcher with his kind've bat has to be held in a high regard.Simply because there's not many like him.He has solid power with the ability to hit around or slightly more then 20HR a season.He has excellent contact ability and should be able to maintain a solid to great average throughout his career.He truely handles a pitching staff quite well and knows how to call a game.His defense behind the plate is good nothing out of this world but very solid.He has a solid arm and he's by no means a bat first catcher.He's just more bat then glove.He's got excellent makeup displayed by how well he's handled being traded not once but twice now.Both times as a funny side note for a Cy Young winning SP.(Halladay and Dickey).
#11)Tyler Skaggs-I really like this lefty.He has good velocity excllent breaking stuff and very very very good command.He has the kind've pitchability that people drool over.Don't get it confused though he's not the smoke and mirrors type he can straight out gun you down.He's on the lankier side but he repeats his delievery well for his size.He has a very good idea of what he's doing on the mound and how he wants to attack a batter.In some cases a guy has better stuff then he is a pitcher and sometimes a guy is a better pitcher then his stuff.Skaggs is the latter.Not a ace but someone who can be in the front of the rotation and really eat some innings for ya.
#12)Jose Fernandez-This kid's curveball is a absolute beast.It litterally made my jaw drop when I saw it it's that unbelieveable.His fastball also is consistently plus and while he is on the hefty side he trimmed down a bit and as long as he doesnt become overly heavy that shouldn't be a issue.If your asking me I'd tell you your looking at the future ace in Miami.But even if i'm being a bit over confident he should be a very very good #2 with a real shot at being a top30 type MLB guy.
#13)Jameson Taillon-The only thing he's done wrong since being in the minors was getting so much hype.Maybe second to only Gerrit Cole in terms of pure stuff.Taillon truely has a outstanding arsenal at his disposal.His fastball curveball and slider are all plus plus pitches.Which is incredibly hard to find.He has solid command but deffinately needs to improve and refine on that front.He really needs to work on his changeup as the main issue is not changing speed effectively enough and it comes out a bit hard.The size and pure stuff alone are enough to have the chance at being a true #1 and if his command comes along as hoped then watch out because taillon could truely ruin some careers along his path.
#14)Francisco Lindor-He really doesn't get much love maybe because he's in Cleveland and maybe because he was considered the best SS in 2011 and now Javier Baez has really gained on him with being able to stick at SS.But nevertheless Lindor has some truely great gifts.First and Foremost he has a plus glove and plus defense all around.He is one of those highlight reel SS who you'd pay to see take pre game grounders.On the offensive side he makes hard good consistent contact but he'll never have much power.He should be able to hit a good amount of doubles in his time though.For speed he's not a true burner type but he's got above average speed with the real potential of stealing 25 or so bag maybe on instincts more then anything.Lindor in my opinion is a pretty safe bet to be a solid to above average MLB regular who will win gold gloves and flirt with all star nods throughout his career.
#15)Archie Bradley-Easily 1 of my favorites in all of the minors.His pure stuff is outstanding with a 95-98MPH fastball and truely devastating curve.He was a standout in football and basketball as well with the offer to be a QB for the Oklahoma Sooners.He has outstanding strikeout ability but absolutely sucked command wise.His ideal pitchers frame along with his stuff makes him a true #1 potential type.He also has a big bust cloud hanging over his head until he refines some things but I obviously have alot faith.
#16)Xander Bogaerts-He really should be higher on this list.But I'll give him some time to really show people he's no 1 season beauty that his ability is legit and he's oozing with talent.First and Foremost it starts with his stupid power.We're talking 30+ HR at the MLB level no question.He's a touch aggresive but he handles the bat incredibly well and makes really good contact so he should be able to maintain a strong average.At SS it's not that he's bad it's his size that gets in the way.Unfortunately he probally will lose a step as the years go on but I'm of the belief he could handle SS reasonably for a few years at the beginning of his career.Either way you could make this guy your DH and he would be able to let the bat do it's damage.I really think we're looking at a future MVP in the making.AA was incredibly advanced for his age and he did extremely well.
#17)Shelby Miller-At 1 Time he was looked at as possibly the best arm in the minors.And while he did have a rough season or start I should say in 2012.There's no reason he's not still in that discussion.His fastball has alot of life to it electric is the term I hear alot.He's come a long way in terms of his off speed stuff and really developing as a pitcher who can get you out not just over power ya.There's some work left to be done for sure but I think St.Louis has their next anchor for the 10+ years of his career.
#18)Bubba Starling-If you want to see the next Once in a Generation type talent.You dont have to go much farther then Bubba Starling.He has plus tools all over the board including plus power plus speed plus arm plus makeup plus defense.The only real question is just how much can he barrel the ball.In my opinion he's going to be a 300+ hitter but even if it didn't go that well just on pure talent we're talking a 280 hitter at worst.He can do a little bit of everything and as a nice blanket of security he was also a deadly SP in HS along with a All-State Nod in both Basketball and Football.He legit could probally go pro in all 3.Big time upside I think the Baseball Community has to prepare themselves.Harper and Trout were appetizers to what Bubba will be.
#19)Mike Zunino-Probally a bit too high.But he's won me over.His bat is what did it for me at least and boy oh boy does it have a chance to be special with his bat speed batters eye and just natural hitting ability your looking at 20-25HR easily and a 300-320 AVG.To be honest not that there similar players but just in terms of caliber of talent.I think Buster Posey might have to push over as the best catcher in baseball soon.He also won the Golden Spikes award in 2012.
#20)Nick Castellanos-Me personally I'm not such a fan.But you can't deny the potential of this kid.He has plus contact skills.He really knows how to barrel up the ball.He should have solid power as a pro but there is some question to just how much.That's something to keep a very close eye on moving forward because if the power doesn't come as hoped he could make a pretty sizeable nose dive down most peoples list.He can handle 3B in the MLB just fine but in Detroit obviously he's not going to tell Miggy what to play.So for now he's a RF he doesn't have the ability to play CF regularly but he could handle it in small doses.The arm is solid to above average so RF should be no problem and I don't think he'd have to be a LF only type.
#21)Christian Yelich-He's certainly got the top notch bat.He's going to have no problem winning batting titles throughout his career.And considered he is rather athletic its sort've crazy to think hes a CF who was drafted as a 1B.The question has always been and will continue to be how much power will he really have?Some people say just average at 15-20HR some say above average so closer to 20-25 but the jury is deffinately still out on that aspect.As far as defense goes he has a average arm and he's not the fastest guy in the world so it wouldn't be crazy to think LF is down the line but not anytime soon.With this 1 your buying the bat and boy will it be a special 1.
#22)Mike Olt-I really like this bat as well.He has truely plus power and it's too all fields.While he won't have a Adam Dunn type average don't expect 300 either.A reasonable comparison might be Modern Day Tex.In the 260-270 Range.But if he's hitting you 30+ HR I don't think that's a real issue.The defense at 3B is respectable if not solid.He's got the arm for the position but in Texas they'll probally have him at 1B DH and RF/LF alot.Which is fine because he's enough of a athlete to handle it.
#23)Miguel Sano-Very Similar to Mike Olt except he probally won't be able to handle 3B.He's more then likely guranteed as a 1B.But that bat is more then worth it.The type who could hit 30HR in a bad season.He truely has amazing and gifted power.Nice contact ability too but he does whiff alot.Probally a OK average at best maybe a smidge more but never will it be better then 250-260 in his best days.
#24)Byron Buxton-I really like this kids tools.He's got plenty of speed a real burner on the paths.His bat should produce plenty of power maybe above average at best.The hit tool hasn't been a real question up to date and I'm of the belief with the way he handles the bat head his mechanics and natural hitting ability he should be able to barrel up the ball enough to have a solid average.A very interesting 5 Tool Player to keep a eye on moving forward.
#25)Noah Syndergaard-I don't know what the hell is a matter with people.This kid throws in the upper 90s with good command and movement.His curveball is a true hammer with 12-6 Break and it looks like it just falls out of thin air.Truely a plus pitch.And that changeup has shown plus potential as well but may be more of a above average pitch down the line.His size plays into the natural downward plane which is why he has such a heavy fastball.It's hard to hit his heat into the air.Absolutely 1 of my favorites and I think a dark horse future ace.
#26)Danny Hultzen-A Lefty with Hultzens velocity is a rare bird for sure.The issue is once he hit AAA he seemed to forget what the hell he was doing.Either way he throws a Mid 90s Fastball with relative ease and he has a very repeatable easy delievery.His off-speed stuff is excellent as is usually expected from LHP.He does need to work on his slider though as that is really the 1 of the 3 that needs some work.The changeup and fastball are plus though and he does have very good control and command.Although once again that AAA stint murdered his ability to control.If he was to recover nicely next season he could find his way right back up this list again.
#27)Gary Sanchez-Jesus Montero 2.0? Not quite but close.Sanchez has a thunderous bat that really hits the ball with authority.Behind the plate he's certainly no Ivan Rodriguez but he more then holds his own.His arm is a weapon and once he refines the craft that is catching watchout.It's been a tight debate between Sanchez and Zunino for Top C but both really have a case.Sanchez should be able to hit close to 300 with about 25HR each season.Really settling into the middle of a lineup.There's no real worry about being a DH or 1B because his defense is good enough.
#28)Carlos Correa-Very exciting prospect.Was the surprise #1 overall in 2012.Got a very intriguing bat with serious power potential.There is some debate as to how much will he really hit.The other issue he finds himself in is will his size move him off SS.And that my friends is 1 of the most heated debates I've seen about a prospect in some time.While he's not a burner he does have some speed and agility and if your asking me I think he will stick at SS at least for some time.The bat is where the money is as we could be discussing a 25HR type bat.
#29)George Springer-The first thing you hear when Springer is mentioned is he Ks too much.But that's not a fair assesment.He does have alot of swing and miss to his game.But he very productively counters that by having plus patience at the plate.So they really do counter act each other.As far as his bat goes it could be a very nice one with Springer having the chance to have 30/30 Type seasons.His speed is a real gift and he can hustle trust me.He has a plus arm from the OF and can really gun fools down.A legit 5 tool talent and I believe a stud in the making.
#30)Delino Deshields-Some might say this is too aggresive and I couldn't disagree more.Had there not been some kid named Billy stealing all those bases in Penascola then Deshields wouldve been the guy we spoke of.He has 101 SB in the season to go with 113 Runs Scored and 12HR.He has a whole lot of tools and the reason he's so good on the basepaths is because of his footspeed which is truely plus.I like the bat alot and even though he's limited to 2B especially in fantasy that could be a huge plus for him as well.I would expect him to hit about 10-15HR each season with 50SB and a 270-280AVG.The defense at 2B should be more then respectable in fact it should be great.
#31)Jonathan Singleton-Big Boy 1B for sure.Bat has a whole lot of potential.He's actually very well built for his size.He moves well for a 1B and when he was placed in LF back in Philly he really didn't do all so bad.Now in Houston with 1B wide open for him he doesn't have to be at a unnatural position.The bat really opened eyes for me as he's a tough out.While he does whiff a decent amount it's really a battle each AB.Down the line I could easily see 25-30 maybe even 30+ HR as he comes to develop as a better hitter.The average side of things remains to be seen but I don't think it will be bad.
#32)Albert Almora-Plus Plus Makeup.A true leader in every sense.This kid is super impressive in center.Really quite a gifted athlete.Had a nice career for Team USA as a amateur.The bat will have above average power and he should always hit for really good AVG.The arm is solid not amazing but he really makes up for any physical shortcomings with his instincts.I'd say he was 1 of my favorites from 2012 easily.
#33)Matt Barnes-I really like this Righty from UConn.Nice power arm relatively polished and hes got solid to above average command of his arsenal.He also has some very good breaking stuff and from what I've seen the changeup is nice as well.He has some great pitchability to him and I could deffinately see him as a future #1 on a team.He has the build for it and certainly has the command for it.I think he allows his Above Average stuff that's really more suited for a 2 to play up.Plus fastball deep into starts with a plus curveball.Dylan Bundy got off to a crazy 30 Innings scoreless streak to start his career.Had Barnes not begun his career at the same identical time.His stretch in Greenville would've been just as impressive.Although he was a college pitcher so Bundy does the take the cake you can't deny the level of amazement that goes with his 5 Start Greenville Career.
#34)Carlos Martinez-I'm not going to deny this kid's pure stuff because it's very good.And I fully expect him to be a lockdown closer come his time.But that's where the issue lies.I cannot in good faith say he will be a starter because his delivery is just simply too violent.It's the type of delivery that I truely get scared on each throw.That being said he's also a bit undersized and draw comparisons to Pedro Martinez because of his stuff.If the mechanics ever did improve which I don't see happening he has front line potential.But your more then likely looking at a future Chapman/Kimbrel type closer and probally Mottes heir to the throne.He does have Triple Digit Heat and a Plus breaking ball so it's not like he's not impressive but he really could be so much more.
#35)Kevin Gausman-I'm a HUGE believer in this kids stuff no joke.The plus fastball he has now is absolutely electric.The plus changeup he features now can be un hittable.He does need to develop a breaking ball of some kind but I have alot of faith in this kid moving along just fine.His command is excellent.And the beauty of all this is he still has quite a bit of projection left on him.I could see his fastball gaining another tick or 2 to really put it over the top.His delivery isn't funky or bad it's just diffrent with a high leg raise so it really leads to deception.
#36)Kyle Zimmer-I had a hard time picking which one to put first.So I decided they should be back to back.Zimmer has alot of work to do since he's so new to pitching for a college guy.His fastball hits 95-96 regularly and he holds it deep into starts.He has average command at the moment but it's improving rapidly.He does have a pretty deadly Curveball that he's not afraid to throw at will.He can place it where ever he chooses.Doesn't have a true hammer break 12-6 but it's never the less quite impressive.His changeup at the moment isn't serviceable because of how new to pitching he is but he has shown some serious potential with it.I could very easily see him being 1 of the top arms in the minors at some point down the line.If KC development staff don't ruin him first as they usually do with their highly touted arms.
#37)Kaleb Cowart-I probally like him a little more then I should.But the kids bat is impressive.Coming into his Draft Class he was viewed as 1 of the top pitchers from the HS ranks.He made it quite clear he wanted to hit the Angels obliged and it looks like they made the right choice.He has above average power solid contact skills from both sides.He does need to work on his Left side a little bit but he already has plus bat speed from both sides.Along with his plus arm he'll be just fine at the hot corner.Look Out for this 1 he could be a steady riser.
#38)Nolan Arenado-Attitude Issues Galore.Along with a ? of how much power.It's easy for him to get overlooked.But the kid does have some serious talent.The bat should produce a great average with at least average power.His defense at the hot corner isn't to die for but also not bad and he has improved alot on that front.He doesn't K alot and he does produce alot of runs regardless of how much power he has.Playing in Coors will certainly help.
#39)Rymer Liriano-He gets alot of power out of his bat.The Power/Speed combo is very intriguing and he does have solid contact skills.He's somewhat of a 5 Tool talent and while he probally will be a RFer don't let that shy away from the fact the kid's got some wheels.So far the power hasn't showed up much in games but he was also quite young for AA and he carried himself respectably.I look for him to make a step forward in the near future.
#40)Aaron Sanchez-Really nice arm.Serious fastball.Good offspeeed stuff.good command.There's a good amount to be said of Sanchez and while I personally don't have a interest in him he is a solid righty.Should be a #2 in due time and since Toronto traded all of their prospects they need him to work out.He does need to work on refining his command some alot really but he's shown alot of promise.
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