3. Christian Walker, 1b
Born: March 28, 1991. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 180. Drafted: South Carolina, 2012 (4th round). Signed by: Chris Gale.
Background: Walker was a rock in South Carolina’s lineup for three seasons that included back-to-back College World Series championships and a runner-up finish in 2012. A fourth-round pick that season, he needed just more than two seasons to reach the major leagues, homering off the Red Sox’s Rubby de la Rosa to right-center field on Sept. 20.
Scouting Report: Known as a solid hitter with gap-to-gap power, Walker’s game took a big step forward in 2014 with an organization-best 27 home runs. Working with new minor league hitting coordinator Jeff Manto to increase his power, he began to use his legs more in his short swing, producing all-fields power. Walker keeps his bat in the zone a long time, recognizes pitches and has good bat speed. A modest athlete, Walker has improved his footwork but is more competent than an asset defensively, and is a below-average runner.
The Future: Walker’s makeup will be the separator if he becomes a regular. He should start 2015 as Triple-A Norfolk’s first baseman. If the Orioles don’t retain Chris Davis (a free agent after 2015), Walker could be his replacement.
Following the Baby Nats...
Moderator: Yankees
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Yankees
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Sitting at home, enjoying some good Sammy A Winter, having the family around...and reading about my boy Juan Lagares as a top 10 CF from Buster Olney.
http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/buster- ... /_/id/8723
http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/buster- ... /_/id/8723
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Top Command in the Minor Leagues: Kyle Hendricks (Chicago Cubs)
It's difficult to find minor-league pitchers with true command, a skill that comes with experience and polish, but Hendricks has it in spades. Hendricks displays exceptional command of his entire arsenal, particularly his fastball, which he moves around the zone with ease. His knack for hitting spots and even moving the ball outside of the strike zone at will has enabled him to become a more highly regarded prospect than his raw stuff would suggest, and it might be enough to carry him to the big leagues.
It's difficult to find minor-league pitchers with true command, a skill that comes with experience and polish, but Hendricks has it in spades. Hendricks displays exceptional command of his entire arsenal, particularly his fastball, which he moves around the zone with ease. His knack for hitting spots and even moving the ball outside of the strike zone at will has enabled him to become a more highly regarded prospect than his raw stuff would suggest, and it might be enough to carry him to the big leagues.
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Nice day for the IBC Nats, especially with the news of Dan Winkler being freed from Colorado in the Rule V draft.
Winkler had TJ in June/July of last year and will not be ready to throw until about then 2015, when the Braves will stash him on a 2 month recovery assignment in the minors...keeping his rights into 2016.
With breathtaking command of a slightly above average repertoire, Winkler was one of the most dominant MiLB pitchers in 2013 (175 k's, 0.98 whip), & may have been THE most dominant in 2014 (0.71 whip!) until his injury.
TJ and pitcher development aren't new concepts to the Braves organization, so, given a successful recovery and never being a guy who got by on stuff, Winkler could be back in a huge way in 2016.
Winkler had TJ in June/July of last year and will not be ready to throw until about then 2015, when the Braves will stash him on a 2 month recovery assignment in the minors...keeping his rights into 2016.
With breathtaking command of a slightly above average repertoire, Winkler was one of the most dominant MiLB pitchers in 2013 (175 k's, 0.98 whip), & may have been THE most dominant in 2014 (0.71 whip!) until his injury.
TJ and pitcher development aren't new concepts to the Braves organization, so, given a successful recovery and never being a guy who got by on stuff, Winkler could be back in a huge way in 2016.
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Buh-bam.
username49 (Ohio): How would you rank Margot, Dahl, and Almora. Cases can be made to rank any of them above the other and I expect opinions to differ when the top 101 comes out. I also just read a really informative and persuasive comment on another site arguing Margot's case to be a top 20 prospect in baseball despite having a Low A/A ball resume. Would someone having Margot in their top 20 be crazy to you, or could you respect the placement?
Mark Anderson: I'm going Dahl, Almora, Margot, if I'm ranking them right now, and I'm pretty firm on that order.
I can understand the case for Margot pushing that high, though I think that's a pretty aggressive interpretation of what he's going to become, and on what schedule. It's certainly not a case I would make at this point, but I do believe he is solidly in the Top 101.
Bob (Seattle): Who would you rather have? David Dahl, Austin Meadows, or Mark Appel?
Mark Anderson: David Dahl is going to blow the hell up in 2015. I'm buying big time here and have been for a while.
Larry (bird): Dahl > Frazier?
Mark Anderson: At this point in time, absolutely, and I wouldn't have a hard time convincing myself it will stay that way over the long haul.
username49 (Ohio): How would you rank Margot, Dahl, and Almora. Cases can be made to rank any of them above the other and I expect opinions to differ when the top 101 comes out. I also just read a really informative and persuasive comment on another site arguing Margot's case to be a top 20 prospect in baseball despite having a Low A/A ball resume. Would someone having Margot in their top 20 be crazy to you, or could you respect the placement?
Mark Anderson: I'm going Dahl, Almora, Margot, if I'm ranking them right now, and I'm pretty firm on that order.
I can understand the case for Margot pushing that high, though I think that's a pretty aggressive interpretation of what he's going to become, and on what schedule. It's certainly not a case I would make at this point, but I do believe he is solidly in the Top 101.
Bob (Seattle): Who would you rather have? David Dahl, Austin Meadows, or Mark Appel?
Mark Anderson: David Dahl is going to blow the hell up in 2015. I'm buying big time here and have been for a while.
Larry (bird): Dahl > Frazier?
Mark Anderson: At this point in time, absolutely, and I wouldn't have a hard time convincing myself it will stay that way over the long haul.
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I've had a few people ask why I moved #3...well here's a good couple write-ups from FanGraphs on why...
2. Eduardo Rodriguez, LHP
Current Level/Age: AA/21.5, 6’2/200, L/L
Signed: International Free Agent, signed for $175,000 out of Venezuela on 1/28/10
Fastball: 60/65, Slider: 50/55, Changeup: 50/60, Command: 45/50
Scouting Report: Rodriguez was acquired from the Orioles at the trade deadline for lefty reliever Andrew Miller and a couple sources suggested the Red Sox had their choice of Rodriguez or three pitchers from the Tigers in exchange for Miller. Two of those offered pitchers appear to be the two that Detroit sent to Texas for reliever Joakim Soria: RHP’s Jake Thompson (55 FV, #3 prospect) and Corey Knebel (50 FV, #11 prospect and injured shortly after the trade) both highly ranked on my recent Rangers prospect list. It seems Boston’s decision was a classic quality over quantity and, so far, it looks like they chose right.
Rodriguez was a projection lefty with inconsistent but above average stuff his whole career; he sat 90-93 and would hit 95 mph with a slider and changeup that would both flash above average at times. A couple months into the season, the projectable lefty’s velocity spiked, sitting 93-96 mph with his slider and changeup both flashing plus. The slider and changeup never flashed plus in the same game, but the changeup got higher peak grades (one scout put a 70 on it), so both of those pitch grades could be conservative.
Summation: I was conservative on the off-speed pitch grades because even Red Sox people weren’t positive they’re going to see 93-96 mph heat from Rodriguez next season. There’s not reason for it to go away but velocity is often easy come, easy go; the broad base of pitches is what they bough and the velo spike was a bonus.
FV/Role/Risk: 60, #3 starter, Medium (3 on 1-5 scale)
Projected Path: 2015: AAA/MLB, 2016: MLB
5. Dilson Herrera, 2B
Current Level/Age: MLB/20.8, 5/10/180, R/R
Signed: IFA at age 16 on July 29, 2010 out of Colombia by PIT for $220,000 bonus, Agency: Praver/Shapiro
Hit: 45/55, Raw Power: 50/50, Game Power: 45/50, Run: 50/50+, Field: 45/50, Throw: 45/45+
Scouting Report: Herrera is a bit of a grinder, with one scout comparing him to Mark Ellis. That may not be what Mets fans are hoping for from a hotshot prospect that hit his way from A-Ball to the big leagues in his age 20 season, but part of the appeal with Herrera is how quickly he reached his ceiling (or close to it).
He was a known prospect on the July 2nd circuit from Colombia but only got a $220,000 bonus, with multiple millionaires from him class looking like total busts already. This was due in part to Herrera’s 5’10 stature, the fact that he wouldn’t fit at shortstop in the big leagues, he isn’t a quick-twitch athlete and his swing is a little funny. He’s worked his way to being an average second baseman, which was also in doubt at one point, and will post average to slightly above run times.
Herrera loads his hands up (behind his ear) rather than back (at or below shoulder height) like most hitters do. This normally creates length to a swing, with the quick downward motion to start a swing often leading to more downward motion than is necessary and a loop to the swing path. Herrera has had to prove it for the past few years, but he has very good awareness of the bat head and feel to hit: he makes more consistent hard contact that almost any other hitter with this swing.
The Mets worked with him on pitch selection after the trade, as he can sometimes expand his zone and as long as the load isn’t affecting this, they don’t plan on trying to tweak his mechanics. His hit tool could end up being a 60 and that may allow his power to play even higher than his average raw power.
Summation: Being this advanced at the plate at 20 often leads to All-Star upside, but as I mentioned above, Herrera isn’t that kind of guy physically. He may reach that ceiling by 2016 but there isn’t a clear path for playing time in 2015, so he may spend a good amount of the season in Triple-A. Not bad for one of the two players (along with Vic Black) the Mets received from Pittsburgh last season in exchange for two rentals (Marlon Byrd and John Buck).
Upside: .280/.345/.440, 15-18 homers
FV/Risk: 50, Low (2 on a 1-5 scale)
Projected Path: 2015: AAA/MLB, 2016: MLB
2. Eduardo Rodriguez, LHP
Current Level/Age: AA/21.5, 6’2/200, L/L
Signed: International Free Agent, signed for $175,000 out of Venezuela on 1/28/10
Fastball: 60/65, Slider: 50/55, Changeup: 50/60, Command: 45/50
Scouting Report: Rodriguez was acquired from the Orioles at the trade deadline for lefty reliever Andrew Miller and a couple sources suggested the Red Sox had their choice of Rodriguez or three pitchers from the Tigers in exchange for Miller. Two of those offered pitchers appear to be the two that Detroit sent to Texas for reliever Joakim Soria: RHP’s Jake Thompson (55 FV, #3 prospect) and Corey Knebel (50 FV, #11 prospect and injured shortly after the trade) both highly ranked on my recent Rangers prospect list. It seems Boston’s decision was a classic quality over quantity and, so far, it looks like they chose right.
Rodriguez was a projection lefty with inconsistent but above average stuff his whole career; he sat 90-93 and would hit 95 mph with a slider and changeup that would both flash above average at times. A couple months into the season, the projectable lefty’s velocity spiked, sitting 93-96 mph with his slider and changeup both flashing plus. The slider and changeup never flashed plus in the same game, but the changeup got higher peak grades (one scout put a 70 on it), so both of those pitch grades could be conservative.
Summation: I was conservative on the off-speed pitch grades because even Red Sox people weren’t positive they’re going to see 93-96 mph heat from Rodriguez next season. There’s not reason for it to go away but velocity is often easy come, easy go; the broad base of pitches is what they bough and the velo spike was a bonus.
FV/Role/Risk: 60, #3 starter, Medium (3 on 1-5 scale)
Projected Path: 2015: AAA/MLB, 2016: MLB
5. Dilson Herrera, 2B
Current Level/Age: MLB/20.8, 5/10/180, R/R
Signed: IFA at age 16 on July 29, 2010 out of Colombia by PIT for $220,000 bonus, Agency: Praver/Shapiro
Hit: 45/55, Raw Power: 50/50, Game Power: 45/50, Run: 50/50+, Field: 45/50, Throw: 45/45+
Scouting Report: Herrera is a bit of a grinder, with one scout comparing him to Mark Ellis. That may not be what Mets fans are hoping for from a hotshot prospect that hit his way from A-Ball to the big leagues in his age 20 season, but part of the appeal with Herrera is how quickly he reached his ceiling (or close to it).
He was a known prospect on the July 2nd circuit from Colombia but only got a $220,000 bonus, with multiple millionaires from him class looking like total busts already. This was due in part to Herrera’s 5’10 stature, the fact that he wouldn’t fit at shortstop in the big leagues, he isn’t a quick-twitch athlete and his swing is a little funny. He’s worked his way to being an average second baseman, which was also in doubt at one point, and will post average to slightly above run times.
Herrera loads his hands up (behind his ear) rather than back (at or below shoulder height) like most hitters do. This normally creates length to a swing, with the quick downward motion to start a swing often leading to more downward motion than is necessary and a loop to the swing path. Herrera has had to prove it for the past few years, but he has very good awareness of the bat head and feel to hit: he makes more consistent hard contact that almost any other hitter with this swing.
The Mets worked with him on pitch selection after the trade, as he can sometimes expand his zone and as long as the load isn’t affecting this, they don’t plan on trying to tweak his mechanics. His hit tool could end up being a 60 and that may allow his power to play even higher than his average raw power.
Summation: Being this advanced at the plate at 20 often leads to All-Star upside, but as I mentioned above, Herrera isn’t that kind of guy physically. He may reach that ceiling by 2016 but there isn’t a clear path for playing time in 2015, so he may spend a good amount of the season in Triple-A. Not bad for one of the two players (along with Vic Black) the Mets received from Pittsburgh last season in exchange for two rentals (Marlon Byrd and John Buck).
Upside: .280/.345/.440, 15-18 homers
FV/Risk: 50, Low (2 on a 1-5 scale)
Projected Path: 2015: AAA/MLB, 2016: MLB
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11. Jakson Reetz, C: Reetz was a high-profile prospect on the showcase circuit as a standout talent from Nebraska that had everyday catcher tools, hit well at nearly every event, was into the low-90′s on the mound and was a three sport star in high school. His body got heavier late in the summer and his swing path got more uphill, but he fixed both during the spring, a time when scouts had trouble evaluating Reetz against poor Nebraska prep competition.
Reetz flashed average speed at times over the summer but has lost a tick since then. He has the tools to stick behind the plate with an above average arm, lots of energy and a grinder mentality. Reetz has advanced bat control and solid average raw power, so if he can keep his swing in order, there’s real upside here. Catchers typically take longer to develop and are less predictable but Reetz has the indicators you like to see.
Reetz flashed average speed at times over the summer but has lost a tick since then. He has the tools to stick behind the plate with an above average arm, lots of energy and a grinder mentality. Reetz has advanced bat control and solid average raw power, so if he can keep his swing in order, there’s real upside here. Catchers typically take longer to develop and are less predictable but Reetz has the indicators you like to see.
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Ben Badler at BA announces that he ranked Dilson Herrera in his personal top 20 prospects in the game.
http://www.baseballamerica.com/internat ... k-top-100/
In other news...
Alex (Anaheim): Who's the best prospect almost nobody is talking about?
Mark Anderson: People are talking about David Dahl, but not nearly enough. Maybe the perceived lack of hype (at least from me) is a result of his disappointing 2013 season, and people wondering just what to make of him after he came back strong in 2014, but this kid is a monster in the making. Jump aboard, folks, there's more room on the bandwagon than there should be at this stage of the game.
Kyle (Tennessee ): Is Derek Fisher a guy to keep an eye on? How much do you like his bat?
Mark Anderson: Fisher should absolutely draw some of your attention; he's a nice prospect with a legitimate MLB future. He's limited to left field for me, defensively, but there's a chance the bat holds up with that profile. The power can play to an above-average level and I think he can be an above-average hitter as well, making him an intriguing offensive player if it all comes together.
http://www.baseballamerica.com/internat ... k-top-100/
In other news...
Alex (Anaheim): Who's the best prospect almost nobody is talking about?
Mark Anderson: People are talking about David Dahl, but not nearly enough. Maybe the perceived lack of hype (at least from me) is a result of his disappointing 2013 season, and people wondering just what to make of him after he came back strong in 2014, but this kid is a monster in the making. Jump aboard, folks, there's more room on the bandwagon than there should be at this stage of the game.
Kyle (Tennessee ): Is Derek Fisher a guy to keep an eye on? How much do you like his bat?
Mark Anderson: Fisher should absolutely draw some of your attention; he's a nice prospect with a legitimate MLB future. He's limited to left field for me, defensively, but there's a chance the bat holds up with that profile. The power can play to an above-average level and I think he can be an above-average hitter as well, making him an intriguing offensive player if it all comes together.
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Please, Baseball America, tell me more about Jakson Reetz:
http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/r ... -baseball/
http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/r ... -baseball/
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Been staying away from most of the draft lists, but want to highlight the new guys:
BP Tigers Top 11:
1. Derek Hill
Position: CF
DOB: 12/31/1995
Height/Weight: 6’2” 195 lbs
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted/Acquired: 1st round, 2014 draft, Elk Grove HS (Elk Grove, CA)
Previous Ranking: NA
2014 Stats: .203/.244/.243 at short-season Connecticut (19 games), .212/.331/.333 at complex level GCL (28 games)
The Tools: 7 run; 7 potential glove; 5+ potential hit; 5 arm
What Happened in 2014: The organization tabbed the speedy outfielder from California in the first round, and then began his initiation to professional ball in the bottom rung of the chain.
Strengths: Excellent athlete; frame to physically mature into; feel for the barrel; loose hands; capable of driving offerings into both gaps; gets out of box extremely well; double-plus runner; potential to impact game on bases; gets good jumps off the bat; covers plenty of ground into both gaps; good fundamentals; impact glove; strong work ethic; good makeup reports.
Weaknesses: In the early stages of developing a professional approach; very aggressive hitter; needs to learn how to better dictate plate appearances; likes to expand strike zone; will chase spin; development of pitch recognition will take some time; contact-orientated stroke with little present lift; below-average power potential; bat could end up on the empty side; glove may ultimately carry profile.
Overall Future Potential: 6; first-division player
Realistic Role: 5; average major leaguer
Risk Factor/Injury History: Extreme; limited professional experience; progression of hit tool.
Bret Sayre’s Fantasy Take: There’s always interest in players with plus-plus run grades, but Hill has a chance to be a near-average fantasy contributor even without the speed. Despite the extended ETA, Hill shouldn’t last beyond the top-25 picks in dynasty drafts this year—and if everything breaks right, he could look like the good version of a former Tigers’ center fielder, Austin Jackson.
The Year Ahead: The speed and defense are attractive aspects of Hill’s game, with both offering impact potential and a solid foundation for this prospect to begin building upon as a pro. It’s not a leap to project the 19-year-old as a double-plus defender in center based on the way he already handles the position, especially when it comes to his ability to read balls off the bat and cover plenty of ground into both gaps. There’s a strong floor here when considering the value of a true up-the-middle defender. The variability comes into play when evaluating the potential of the bat, with an overwhelming majority of the early-career focus centering on building both the approach and pitch recognition to enhance the strong feel for the barrel. It’s likely to be on the slow and steady side for Hill out of the gate. Look for more subtle clues during what should be an assignment in the Midwest League in 2015, and for success to be a gradual ramp of controlling plate appearances better, with increased contact as a result. The major-league prospects here are bright, with the chance a first-division player starts to come into focus as the offensive prowess develops with repetition and experience.
BP Tigers Top 11:
1. Derek Hill
Position: CF
DOB: 12/31/1995
Height/Weight: 6’2” 195 lbs
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted/Acquired: 1st round, 2014 draft, Elk Grove HS (Elk Grove, CA)
Previous Ranking: NA
2014 Stats: .203/.244/.243 at short-season Connecticut (19 games), .212/.331/.333 at complex level GCL (28 games)
The Tools: 7 run; 7 potential glove; 5+ potential hit; 5 arm
What Happened in 2014: The organization tabbed the speedy outfielder from California in the first round, and then began his initiation to professional ball in the bottom rung of the chain.
Strengths: Excellent athlete; frame to physically mature into; feel for the barrel; loose hands; capable of driving offerings into both gaps; gets out of box extremely well; double-plus runner; potential to impact game on bases; gets good jumps off the bat; covers plenty of ground into both gaps; good fundamentals; impact glove; strong work ethic; good makeup reports.
Weaknesses: In the early stages of developing a professional approach; very aggressive hitter; needs to learn how to better dictate plate appearances; likes to expand strike zone; will chase spin; development of pitch recognition will take some time; contact-orientated stroke with little present lift; below-average power potential; bat could end up on the empty side; glove may ultimately carry profile.
Overall Future Potential: 6; first-division player
Realistic Role: 5; average major leaguer
Risk Factor/Injury History: Extreme; limited professional experience; progression of hit tool.
Bret Sayre’s Fantasy Take: There’s always interest in players with plus-plus run grades, but Hill has a chance to be a near-average fantasy contributor even without the speed. Despite the extended ETA, Hill shouldn’t last beyond the top-25 picks in dynasty drafts this year—and if everything breaks right, he could look like the good version of a former Tigers’ center fielder, Austin Jackson.
The Year Ahead: The speed and defense are attractive aspects of Hill’s game, with both offering impact potential and a solid foundation for this prospect to begin building upon as a pro. It’s not a leap to project the 19-year-old as a double-plus defender in center based on the way he already handles the position, especially when it comes to his ability to read balls off the bat and cover plenty of ground into both gaps. There’s a strong floor here when considering the value of a true up-the-middle defender. The variability comes into play when evaluating the potential of the bat, with an overwhelming majority of the early-career focus centering on building both the approach and pitch recognition to enhance the strong feel for the barrel. It’s likely to be on the slow and steady side for Hill out of the gate. Look for more subtle clues during what should be an assignment in the Midwest League in 2015, and for success to be a gradual ramp of controlling plate appearances better, with increased contact as a result. The major-league prospects here are bright, with the chance a first-division player starts to come into focus as the offensive prowess develops with repetition and experience.
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New Guy Alert! Grant Holmes:
BP:
4. Grant Holmes
Position: RHP
DOB: 03/22/1996
Height/Weight: 6’1” 215 lbs
Bats/Throws: L/R
Drafted/Acquired: 1st round, 2014 draft, Conway HS (Conway, SC)
Previous Ranking: NA
2014 Stats: 4.91 ERA (18.1 IP, 19 H, 25 K, 6 BB) at short-season Ogden, 3.00 ERA (30 IP, 20 H, 33 K, 7 BB) at complex level AZL
The Tools: 7 FB; 6+ potential CB; 6 potential CH
What Happened in 2014: The former Florida commit impressed on the showcase circuit and throughout the spring, coming off the board as the 22nd overall selection in last year’s draft, and proceeded to light up radar guns with his heater and drop jaws with his hammer in his professional debut.
Strengths: Big, strong, durable build; prototypical power stuff, headlined by plus or better fastball/curveball combo; fastball will kiss the upper 90s while working comfortably 93 to 95 mph, showing quality life; power curve draws wobbly knees and empty swings alike, operating low to mid-80s; feel for a changeup and has flashed ability to turn over plus-level offering with arm-speed deception and fade; can hold velocity to and through 75 pitches; aggressive demeanor; solid control profile at present and command could improve to above average at maturity; repeats well.
Weaknesses: Body lacks projection; growth in stuff will likely be reliant upon improved tightening of physique and flexibility, adding to ability to execute with more precision; changeup still work in progress; fastball/curve too advanced for low-level bats, so will have to place purposeful developmental focus on off-speed; high-effort delivery; stuff saw downtick in power and effectiveness at end of long showcase circuit before returning in the fall and spring; yet to be tested on shorter rest and over long haul of full pro season.
Overall Future Potential: 7; no. 2 starter
Realistic Role: High 5; closer
Risk Factor/Injury History: High; limited pro exposure.
Craig Goldstein’s Fantasy Take: Similarly to Urias, no matter where Holmes slots in the rotation for you, be it a mid-rotation arm or higher, he’ll play up in fantasy thanks to dynamic stuff and the ability to chew innings. There’s not a ton of growth left thanks to his barrel-chested frame, but he could burn through the lower minors quickly, providing immediate name value and the chance to sell high, early. This is a first-round talent in dynasty drafts, and arguably the top prep arm on the board if you’re too impatient for Tyler Kolek.
The Year Ahead: Holmes was arguably the best overall prep power arm in the 2014 draft class, considering the quality of his top two offerings and a lengthy track record that displayed an ability to replicate those offerings over multiple innings from appearance to appearance. The body is not projectable, and he is a bit undersized compared to your prototypical hard thrower, but the profile doesn’t require much in the way of projection to reach the requisite level to provide major-league value. Even assuming health, because of the effort in the delivery, the untested ability to maintain effectiveness over the course of a full pro season, and the still-developing third pitch, there is a risk that the arm tops out as a high-end relief option. Leading up to and during his pro debut, however, the South Carolina native has repeatedly shown an ability to effectively wield two, and at times three, above-average offerings with feel and control, and stands as one of the leading candidates to make a jump into the top tier of minor-league arms with a strong full-season debut.
Major league ETA: 2018
BA:
4. Grant Holmes, rhp
Born: March 22, 1996. B-T: L-R. Ht.: 6-1.
Wt.: 215. Drafted: HS—Conway, S.C. 2014 (1st round). Signed by: Lon Joyce.
Background: The Dodgers popped Holmes at No. 18 overall in 2014 to make him the highest drafted South Carolina high school righthander in modern history. After signing for $2.5 million, Holmes struck out more than a batter per inning in his pro debut in Rookie ball.
Scouting Report: Holmes has a strong, filled-out frame with broad shoulders and two power pitches. His fastball parks anywhere from 91-96 mph and peaks at 98. Holmes calls his breaking ball a power curveball, while the Dodgers refer to it as a slider. Either way, it’s a plus pitch in the low-80s with three-quarters break. Those two pitches help him strike out a lot of hitters, though he’s still learning to take something off his breaking ball for an early count strike. Holmes has mostly focused on two pitches, but he worked on his changeup during instructional league and it’s flashed above-average. There’s some recoil at the end of his delivery, and his long arm stroke wouldn’t typically suggest above-average control, but he’s athletic, repeats his delivery and threw plenty of strikes in his pro debut.
The Future: Holmes is reminiscent of righthander Chad Billingsley, the Dodgers’ 2003 first-round pick out of high school. He will open his first full season in low Class A Great Lakes, with a chance to develop into a No. 2 or 3 starter.
BP:
4. Grant Holmes
Position: RHP
DOB: 03/22/1996
Height/Weight: 6’1” 215 lbs
Bats/Throws: L/R
Drafted/Acquired: 1st round, 2014 draft, Conway HS (Conway, SC)
Previous Ranking: NA
2014 Stats: 4.91 ERA (18.1 IP, 19 H, 25 K, 6 BB) at short-season Ogden, 3.00 ERA (30 IP, 20 H, 33 K, 7 BB) at complex level AZL
The Tools: 7 FB; 6+ potential CB; 6 potential CH
What Happened in 2014: The former Florida commit impressed on the showcase circuit and throughout the spring, coming off the board as the 22nd overall selection in last year’s draft, and proceeded to light up radar guns with his heater and drop jaws with his hammer in his professional debut.
Strengths: Big, strong, durable build; prototypical power stuff, headlined by plus or better fastball/curveball combo; fastball will kiss the upper 90s while working comfortably 93 to 95 mph, showing quality life; power curve draws wobbly knees and empty swings alike, operating low to mid-80s; feel for a changeup and has flashed ability to turn over plus-level offering with arm-speed deception and fade; can hold velocity to and through 75 pitches; aggressive demeanor; solid control profile at present and command could improve to above average at maturity; repeats well.
Weaknesses: Body lacks projection; growth in stuff will likely be reliant upon improved tightening of physique and flexibility, adding to ability to execute with more precision; changeup still work in progress; fastball/curve too advanced for low-level bats, so will have to place purposeful developmental focus on off-speed; high-effort delivery; stuff saw downtick in power and effectiveness at end of long showcase circuit before returning in the fall and spring; yet to be tested on shorter rest and over long haul of full pro season.
Overall Future Potential: 7; no. 2 starter
Realistic Role: High 5; closer
Risk Factor/Injury History: High; limited pro exposure.
Craig Goldstein’s Fantasy Take: Similarly to Urias, no matter where Holmes slots in the rotation for you, be it a mid-rotation arm or higher, he’ll play up in fantasy thanks to dynamic stuff and the ability to chew innings. There’s not a ton of growth left thanks to his barrel-chested frame, but he could burn through the lower minors quickly, providing immediate name value and the chance to sell high, early. This is a first-round talent in dynasty drafts, and arguably the top prep arm on the board if you’re too impatient for Tyler Kolek.
The Year Ahead: Holmes was arguably the best overall prep power arm in the 2014 draft class, considering the quality of his top two offerings and a lengthy track record that displayed an ability to replicate those offerings over multiple innings from appearance to appearance. The body is not projectable, and he is a bit undersized compared to your prototypical hard thrower, but the profile doesn’t require much in the way of projection to reach the requisite level to provide major-league value. Even assuming health, because of the effort in the delivery, the untested ability to maintain effectiveness over the course of a full pro season, and the still-developing third pitch, there is a risk that the arm tops out as a high-end relief option. Leading up to and during his pro debut, however, the South Carolina native has repeatedly shown an ability to effectively wield two, and at times three, above-average offerings with feel and control, and stands as one of the leading candidates to make a jump into the top tier of minor-league arms with a strong full-season debut.
Major league ETA: 2018
BA:
4. Grant Holmes, rhp
Born: March 22, 1996. B-T: L-R. Ht.: 6-1.
Wt.: 215. Drafted: HS—Conway, S.C. 2014 (1st round). Signed by: Lon Joyce.
Background: The Dodgers popped Holmes at No. 18 overall in 2014 to make him the highest drafted South Carolina high school righthander in modern history. After signing for $2.5 million, Holmes struck out more than a batter per inning in his pro debut in Rookie ball.
Scouting Report: Holmes has a strong, filled-out frame with broad shoulders and two power pitches. His fastball parks anywhere from 91-96 mph and peaks at 98. Holmes calls his breaking ball a power curveball, while the Dodgers refer to it as a slider. Either way, it’s a plus pitch in the low-80s with three-quarters break. Those two pitches help him strike out a lot of hitters, though he’s still learning to take something off his breaking ball for an early count strike. Holmes has mostly focused on two pitches, but he worked on his changeup during instructional league and it’s flashed above-average. There’s some recoil at the end of his delivery, and his long arm stroke wouldn’t typically suggest above-average control, but he’s athletic, repeats his delivery and threw plenty of strikes in his pro debut.
The Future: Holmes is reminiscent of righthander Chad Billingsley, the Dodgers’ 2003 first-round pick out of high school. He will open his first full season in low Class A Great Lakes, with a chance to develop into a No. 2 or 3 starter.
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From BP's Eight Intriguing PECOTA Projections: http://www.baseballprospectus.com/artic ... leid=25407
6. Michael Pineda will match Madison Bumgarner's value
It's easy to see people overrating Madison Bumgarner for 2015 after his otherworldly performance in the postseason. The smart bet is to not get too high on Bumgarner because it's likely we're all suffering from a bit of recency bias. But even so, PECOTA has him valued nearly the same as Michael Pineda, which, at first glance, seems like a slap in the face of Bumgarner. In the last three seasons, the young southpaw has a 114 ERA+ and is averaging 203 innings pitched, 203 strikeouts, and 55 walks a season. On the other hand, Pineda has battled shoulder injuries each of the last three seasons (after a very strong 2011 rookie campaign), managing only 76 2/3 innings, all delivered last summer, before those shoulder issues popped up once again, costing him 87 games. But this isn't about Bumgarner possibly being undervalued—PECOTA has him properly slotted among the 20 or so best starters in baseball. But Pineda managing to be sandwiched in between Bumgarner and Johnny Cueto according to PECOTA is an intriguing possibility.
After returning from the 60-day disabled list last August, Pineda made nine starts and looked strong, giving the team a 1.91 ERA in 56 2/3 innings while posting a FIP that bettered David Price's, Jon Lesters, and all but 11 other starters. So it's it's easy to see Pineda-believers being bullish on the 26-year-old. PECOTA is one of those believers, having pegged Pineda to toss 159 2/3 innings—which doesn't seem like much, but that alone would be a victory for the Yankees—and in those innings, he's performing at a near-ace level, striking out 155 batters, walking just 40 while posting a strong 3.11 ERA. The entire Yankees roster is filled with questions, with some of the biggest coming in the rotation. If the Bombers get 28 starts out of Pineda at an average level, let alone the high level PECOTA has projected for him, it answers one huge question for the team. Of course, it still leaves a dozen more before they can start feeling comfortable about getting back to the top of the AL East. —Sahadev Sharma
6. Michael Pineda will match Madison Bumgarner's value
It's easy to see people overrating Madison Bumgarner for 2015 after his otherworldly performance in the postseason. The smart bet is to not get too high on Bumgarner because it's likely we're all suffering from a bit of recency bias. But even so, PECOTA has him valued nearly the same as Michael Pineda, which, at first glance, seems like a slap in the face of Bumgarner. In the last three seasons, the young southpaw has a 114 ERA+ and is averaging 203 innings pitched, 203 strikeouts, and 55 walks a season. On the other hand, Pineda has battled shoulder injuries each of the last three seasons (after a very strong 2011 rookie campaign), managing only 76 2/3 innings, all delivered last summer, before those shoulder issues popped up once again, costing him 87 games. But this isn't about Bumgarner possibly being undervalued—PECOTA has him properly slotted among the 20 or so best starters in baseball. But Pineda managing to be sandwiched in between Bumgarner and Johnny Cueto according to PECOTA is an intriguing possibility.
After returning from the 60-day disabled list last August, Pineda made nine starts and looked strong, giving the team a 1.91 ERA in 56 2/3 innings while posting a FIP that bettered David Price's, Jon Lesters, and all but 11 other starters. So it's it's easy to see Pineda-believers being bullish on the 26-year-old. PECOTA is one of those believers, having pegged Pineda to toss 159 2/3 innings—which doesn't seem like much, but that alone would be a victory for the Yankees—and in those innings, he's performing at a near-ace level, striking out 155 batters, walking just 40 while posting a strong 3.11 ERA. The entire Yankees roster is filled with questions, with some of the biggest coming in the rotation. If the Bombers get 28 starts out of Pineda at an average level, let alone the high level PECOTA has projected for him, it answers one huge question for the team. Of course, it still leaves a dozen more before they can start feeling comfortable about getting back to the top of the AL East. —Sahadev Sharma
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What up with it new IBC Nats draft pick Josh Morgan?
BP Prospects on the Rise:
2. SS Josh Morgan: The former UCLA commit provides a well-rounded middle-infield profile that includes an advanced feel at the plate, steady hands and footwork in the field, and solid average speed. He’s comfortable working deep into counts and maintains a steady and comfortable focus regardless of game situation. It’s a compact and efficient swing geared to line-drive production across the field and particularly adept at driving the ball up the middle and oppo. Defensively, Morgan is capable of making the outstanding play and his game is underscored by crisp and refined actions. His hands are soft to receive and quick to transfer, making him a good fit at second base should he have to transfer off short down the line. Morgan put together a strong professional debut in 2014 and will look to build on that in full-season ball this year.
BA Top 10 Prospects:
10. Josh Morgan, ss/2b
Born: Nov. 16, 1995. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 5-11. Wt.: 185. Drafted: HS—Orange, Calif., 2014 (3rd round). Signed by: Steve Flores.
Background: Scouts in Southern California had Morgan on their radar for years. He signed for $800,000 as a third-round pick, led the Rookie-level Arizona League with a .468 on-base percentage, then continued to hit well upon his promotion to short-season Spokane.
Scouting Report: In a system filled with toolsy, free swingers, Morgan stands out for his plate discipline and barrel awareness. He’s a patient hitter with excellent strike-zone awareness. He lays off breaking balls outside the zone, waits for a good pitch to hit, then uses his quick hands to unleash a fast, compact stroke to rope line drives to all fields. Morgan can put a ball in the gap, but his lack of power is his biggest offensive question mark. A slightly above-average runner when he signed, Morgan lost around 10 pounds in pro ball and improved his speed to plus, turning in home-to-first times of 4.2 seconds. He’s a reliable defensive shortstop, with good hands, footwork and instincts that help his range play up with a solid-average arm. Some scouts in the draft questioned whether Morgan would be better suited for second base, but he played well at shortstop in his pro debut.
The Future: Morgan should move on to low Class A Hickory in 2015. His potential as a high-OBP hitter in the middle of the diamond is exciting if he can develop power.
BP Prospects on the Rise:
2. SS Josh Morgan: The former UCLA commit provides a well-rounded middle-infield profile that includes an advanced feel at the plate, steady hands and footwork in the field, and solid average speed. He’s comfortable working deep into counts and maintains a steady and comfortable focus regardless of game situation. It’s a compact and efficient swing geared to line-drive production across the field and particularly adept at driving the ball up the middle and oppo. Defensively, Morgan is capable of making the outstanding play and his game is underscored by crisp and refined actions. His hands are soft to receive and quick to transfer, making him a good fit at second base should he have to transfer off short down the line. Morgan put together a strong professional debut in 2014 and will look to build on that in full-season ball this year.
BA Top 10 Prospects:
10. Josh Morgan, ss/2b
Born: Nov. 16, 1995. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 5-11. Wt.: 185. Drafted: HS—Orange, Calif., 2014 (3rd round). Signed by: Steve Flores.
Background: Scouts in Southern California had Morgan on their radar for years. He signed for $800,000 as a third-round pick, led the Rookie-level Arizona League with a .468 on-base percentage, then continued to hit well upon his promotion to short-season Spokane.
Scouting Report: In a system filled with toolsy, free swingers, Morgan stands out for his plate discipline and barrel awareness. He’s a patient hitter with excellent strike-zone awareness. He lays off breaking balls outside the zone, waits for a good pitch to hit, then uses his quick hands to unleash a fast, compact stroke to rope line drives to all fields. Morgan can put a ball in the gap, but his lack of power is his biggest offensive question mark. A slightly above-average runner when he signed, Morgan lost around 10 pounds in pro ball and improved his speed to plus, turning in home-to-first times of 4.2 seconds. He’s a reliable defensive shortstop, with good hands, footwork and instincts that help his range play up with a solid-average arm. Some scouts in the draft questioned whether Morgan would be better suited for second base, but he played well at shortstop in his pro debut.
The Future: Morgan should move on to low Class A Hickory in 2015. His potential as a high-OBP hitter in the middle of the diamond is exciting if he can develop power.
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BP with a lot of love for Derek Fisher:
5. Derek Fisher
Position: OF
DOB: 08/21/1993
Height/Weight: 6’1” 207 lbs.
Bats/Throws: L/R
Drafted/Acquired: 1st round, 2014 draft, University of Virginia (Charlottesville, VA)
Previous Ranking: NR
2014 Stats: .303/.378/.408 at short-season Tri-City (41 games), .667/.750/1.000 at rookie-level Gulf Coast (1 game)
The Tools: 6 run; 6 potential power; 6 potential hit; 5 potential glove
What Happened in 2014: A potential top ten pick in the 2014 draft, Fisher lost six weeks of his spring to a broken hamate bone, dropped to Houston as the 37th overall selection last June, and immediately stood out as one of the better bats in the New York-Penn League as a key member of the runner-up Tri-City squad.
Strengths: Athletic build; smooth left-handed swing; solid bat speed; easy power to pull; handles barrel well; can drive oppo; understands zone and comes with impressive approach; plus runner on the grass and the dirt; fringe-average arm strength can play up at times with occasional carry and solid accuracy; solid reads on the bases.
Weaknesses: Plus or better raw not yet a consistent in-game weapon; routes and reads can eat into speed utility in the field; lines on the base path can add distance between bases; occasionally dinged as low-energy during collegiate career.
Overall Future Potential: 6; first-division player
Realistic Role: 5; average major leaguer
Risk Factor/Injury History: Moderate; solid pedigree and refinement but limited pro experience.
Bret Sayre’s Fantasy Take: One of my favorite fantasy targets in dynasty drafts this year, Fisher fell to the supplemental round, but mostly due to the deficiencies in his glove work. At the plate, Fisher could be a 20/20 option with the ability to hit for a strong average to boot. He shouldn’t last beyond the first 20 picks in your draft.
The Year Ahead: In a draft many Astros fans would like to forget, Fisher stands out as a potential steal in the supplemental first round, and could develop quickly into the top positional talent in the system behind Correa. All the makings are here for a quality number-two bat capable of serving the dual role of catalyst and run producer. When Fisher gets a hold of the ball he has the ability to launch tape-measure shots, but his swing and approach are better geared towards hard line-drive contact at present. Time will tell whether he can work an approach that will allow him to tap into both facets of his game, and he possesses the comfort and fluidity in the box to eventually walk that line. Defensively, Fisher has the raw tools of a potential center fielder but lacks feel for the craft. With Minute Maid offering unique challenges for even the best in the business, he is a better fit in left where he could grow into an average or better defender. The former Wahoo is advanced enough to jump right to Lancaster and could reach Double-A by the end of 2015 if the Astros are so inclined to fast-track his development.
Major league ETA: 2017
5. Derek Fisher
Position: OF
DOB: 08/21/1993
Height/Weight: 6’1” 207 lbs.
Bats/Throws: L/R
Drafted/Acquired: 1st round, 2014 draft, University of Virginia (Charlottesville, VA)
Previous Ranking: NR
2014 Stats: .303/.378/.408 at short-season Tri-City (41 games), .667/.750/1.000 at rookie-level Gulf Coast (1 game)
The Tools: 6 run; 6 potential power; 6 potential hit; 5 potential glove
What Happened in 2014: A potential top ten pick in the 2014 draft, Fisher lost six weeks of his spring to a broken hamate bone, dropped to Houston as the 37th overall selection last June, and immediately stood out as one of the better bats in the New York-Penn League as a key member of the runner-up Tri-City squad.
Strengths: Athletic build; smooth left-handed swing; solid bat speed; easy power to pull; handles barrel well; can drive oppo; understands zone and comes with impressive approach; plus runner on the grass and the dirt; fringe-average arm strength can play up at times with occasional carry and solid accuracy; solid reads on the bases.
Weaknesses: Plus or better raw not yet a consistent in-game weapon; routes and reads can eat into speed utility in the field; lines on the base path can add distance between bases; occasionally dinged as low-energy during collegiate career.
Overall Future Potential: 6; first-division player
Realistic Role: 5; average major leaguer
Risk Factor/Injury History: Moderate; solid pedigree and refinement but limited pro experience.
Bret Sayre’s Fantasy Take: One of my favorite fantasy targets in dynasty drafts this year, Fisher fell to the supplemental round, but mostly due to the deficiencies in his glove work. At the plate, Fisher could be a 20/20 option with the ability to hit for a strong average to boot. He shouldn’t last beyond the first 20 picks in your draft.
The Year Ahead: In a draft many Astros fans would like to forget, Fisher stands out as a potential steal in the supplemental first round, and could develop quickly into the top positional talent in the system behind Correa. All the makings are here for a quality number-two bat capable of serving the dual role of catalyst and run producer. When Fisher gets a hold of the ball he has the ability to launch tape-measure shots, but his swing and approach are better geared towards hard line-drive contact at present. Time will tell whether he can work an approach that will allow him to tap into both facets of his game, and he possesses the comfort and fluidity in the box to eventually walk that line. Defensively, Fisher has the raw tools of a potential center fielder but lacks feel for the craft. With Minute Maid offering unique challenges for even the best in the business, he is a better fit in left where he could grow into an average or better defender. The former Wahoo is advanced enough to jump right to Lancaster and could reach Double-A by the end of 2015 if the Astros are so inclined to fast-track his development.
Major league ETA: 2017
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Nice little article about a potential future closer, R.J. Alvarez...
6. R.J. Alvarez, RHP: Alvarez is reliever all the way, is MLB-ready and sits 93-96, touching 98 mph with an almost all fastball-slider approach. The slider is a 60; it sometimes plays down to 55 when the feel isn’t there but peaks as a 65 for some scouts. This report is short because Alvarez has been this type of pitcher since back in college and now the question marks about risk with potential injuries has dried up. It just comes down to how consistently Alvarez can locate his electric stuff, with him likely settling in the 8th or 9th innings.
6. R.J. Alvarez, RHP: Alvarez is reliever all the way, is MLB-ready and sits 93-96, touching 98 mph with an almost all fastball-slider approach. The slider is a 60; it sometimes plays down to 55 when the feel isn’t there but peaks as a 65 for some scouts. This report is short because Alvarez has been this type of pitcher since back in college and now the question marks about risk with potential injuries has dried up. It just comes down to how consistently Alvarez can locate his electric stuff, with him likely settling in the 8th or 9th innings.
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Grant Holmes is the reason I moved up to #13...glad I got him. Here's Kiley McDaniel on why:
Holmes hard, low-80’s curveball flashed 65 in many of his outings last spring and his changeup flashed 55, but not regularly. I’ve hedged a bit here given the risks with prep arms, but Holmes had the best combination of now stuff and feel in the draft, even ahead of #2 overall pick Marlins RHP Tyler Kolek. If the 100 mph version of Holmes from the early spring comes back, he could be a top 10 prospect in baseball, but the above-average-across-the-board version that we see more often still offers a solid mid-rotation upside.
Holmes hard, low-80’s curveball flashed 65 in many of his outings last spring and his changeup flashed 55, but not regularly. I’ve hedged a bit here given the risks with prep arms, but Holmes had the best combination of now stuff and feel in the draft, even ahead of #2 overall pick Marlins RHP Tyler Kolek. If the 100 mph version of Holmes from the early spring comes back, he could be a top 10 prospect in baseball, but the above-average-across-the-board version that we see more often still offers a solid mid-rotation upside.
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Spending the rest of the day knocking on wood...but I'm a big believer in Michael Pineda.
http://www.baseballprospectus.com/artic ... leid=25786
http://www.baseballprospectus.com/artic ... leid=25786
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Congrats to Jake Lamb (.364/.434/.606) for winning the pre-season battle with Yasmany Tomas for the Dbacks 3b position.
The move of Tomas to the minors has been forecast for the last couple weeks as he had a rough transition to third base and was outplayed by prospect Jake Lamb. Manager Chip Hale explained to reporters several times in the final weeks of spring training how other Cuban players had begun in the minors even after setting the world on fire in spring games.
With Lamb earning a big-league spot and with the Diamondbacks stocked at other positions, playing in the minors allows Tomas to get regular at-bats and even continue working at third base, although General Manager Dave Stewart said that Tomas will likely be an outfielder in the long term.
"Once he returns back here, we probably will be able to get him at-bats at third base but we'd like to get the majority of his work in the outfield," Stewart said. "With the young infielders that we have, both (Double-A prospect Brandon) Drury and Lamb, and with Jake winning the position in spring training, probably Yasmany's long-term future is going to be in the outfield as he was when we signed him."
The move of Tomas to the minors has been forecast for the last couple weeks as he had a rough transition to third base and was outplayed by prospect Jake Lamb. Manager Chip Hale explained to reporters several times in the final weeks of spring training how other Cuban players had begun in the minors even after setting the world on fire in spring games.
With Lamb earning a big-league spot and with the Diamondbacks stocked at other positions, playing in the minors allows Tomas to get regular at-bats and even continue working at third base, although General Manager Dave Stewart said that Tomas will likely be an outfielder in the long term.
"Once he returns back here, we probably will be able to get him at-bats at third base but we'd like to get the majority of his work in the outfield," Stewart said. "With the young infielders that we have, both (Double-A prospect Brandon) Drury and Lamb, and with Jake winning the position in spring training, probably Yasmany's long-term future is going to be in the outfield as he was when we signed him."
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Nice day for the IBC Nats, as Blake Swihart gets the call to Fenway. He's certainly one of a few players I'd consider the spine of my next playoff team.
http://www.baseballprospectus.com/artic ... leid=26236
http://www.baseballprospectus.com/artic ... leid=26236
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A little bit about a youngster I haven't talked about too much:
Duane Underwood, Jr., RHP, Cubs (Myrtle Beach, A+): 7 IP, 3 H, R, BB, 4 K. The 20-year-old Underwood is pitching like it’s a personal insult that people talk about all of the Cubs hitting prospects but continually overlook their young pitchers. I asked Mauricio Rubio about Underwood and he said “he has the highest ceiling of any arm in the Cubs system. Quick arm whip, plus fastball, and a curve that is just a pain. He has big potential. Seriously, the curve is a pain in the (fill in the body part here).”
Duane Underwood, Jr., RHP, Cubs (Myrtle Beach, A+): 7 IP, 3 H, R, BB, 4 K. The 20-year-old Underwood is pitching like it’s a personal insult that people talk about all of the Cubs hitting prospects but continually overlook their young pitchers. I asked Mauricio Rubio about Underwood and he said “he has the highest ceiling of any arm in the Cubs system. Quick arm whip, plus fastball, and a curve that is just a pain. He has big potential. Seriously, the curve is a pain in the (fill in the body part here).”
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It's been a very good start to the year for young IBC Nats...last night was particularly solid:
Billy McKinney, OF, Cubs (Tennessee, AA): 2-4, R, 2 2B. McKinney gets lost in the Cubs system, but the guy who was considered the least-significant piece of the Addison Russell trade could end up making quite an impact. I had been calling for his promotion over the past couple of weeks, as he was no longer being challenged in A-ball, and he received both the promotion and the challenge on Thursday, making his debut for Double-A Tennessee. McKinney picked up right where he left off, continuing to pepper line drives and hit gaps.
Ben Lively, RHP, Phillies (Reading, AA): 7 IP, 3 H, 0 R, BB, 5 K. A strong stat for Lively, who has been up and down this season, but continues to profile as a no. 3 or 4 starter in a big-league rotation. He’s built to eat innings and has the stuff to handle lineups multiple times through the order, though it’s not potent enough to carry a staff. He also got a pitch-clock violation on Thursday, which is dumb, not because he got one, but because there’s a clock on a baseball field.
David Dahl, OF, Rockies (New Britain, AA): 3-4, R, HR, K. Dahl’s hit tool gets rave reviews, but his power has been slower to catch up as he ascends the Rockies farm system rapidly. Dahl isn’t necessarily a home-run hitter, but he’s the type of good all-around hitter with enough bat speed and strength to run into more than his fair share along the way.
Billy McKinney, OF, Cubs (Tennessee, AA): 2-4, R, 2 2B. McKinney gets lost in the Cubs system, but the guy who was considered the least-significant piece of the Addison Russell trade could end up making quite an impact. I had been calling for his promotion over the past couple of weeks, as he was no longer being challenged in A-ball, and he received both the promotion and the challenge on Thursday, making his debut for Double-A Tennessee. McKinney picked up right where he left off, continuing to pepper line drives and hit gaps.
Ben Lively, RHP, Phillies (Reading, AA): 7 IP, 3 H, 0 R, BB, 5 K. A strong stat for Lively, who has been up and down this season, but continues to profile as a no. 3 or 4 starter in a big-league rotation. He’s built to eat innings and has the stuff to handle lineups multiple times through the order, though it’s not potent enough to carry a staff. He also got a pitch-clock violation on Thursday, which is dumb, not because he got one, but because there’s a clock on a baseball field.
David Dahl, OF, Rockies (New Britain, AA): 3-4, R, HR, K. Dahl’s hit tool gets rave reviews, but his power has been slower to catch up as he ascends the Rockies farm system rapidly. Dahl isn’t necessarily a home-run hitter, but he’s the type of good all-around hitter with enough bat speed and strength to run into more than his fair share along the way.
