The rain-cancelled Hunter Harvey/Lucas Giolito game was a bummer Tuesday night, but both picked things up again on Wednesday. The results were awesome for Hunter, who outpitched the more heralded Giolito.
Final lines:
Harvey: 6 ip 1 h 0 er 0 r 1 bb 7 k
Giolito: 5 ip 2 h 0 er 0 r 2 bb 6 k
Pretty close stats. And, from what I can tell, neither lineup packs a ton of punch. Chance Sisco on one end, Drew Ward on the other. The game ended 1-0 in 15 innings.
Definitely would have been an awesome game to see. And I'm glad to see Harvey step it up against probably the best pitcher he'll see all year.
Guardian Apprentices
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All good things about Mr. Harvey (from BP):
RHP Hunter Harvey (Orioles)
6-foot-3 accurate; nice broad shoulders and beautiful frame to add good weight; great physical projection; very athletic; 3/4 arm slot; uses high kick to create good momentum toward the plate; stretch: 1.40 to 1.53 range; has slight crossfire; also can open early and land toward first-base side; front-side glove can get big, creating deception before throwing front side through; ball explodes out of his hand; hips and shoulders rotate in unison and arm comes through fast; easy release; low-effort delivery; stays over top of pitches well; uses tall frame to create plane; repeatable mechanics; presently more of a thrower than pitcher and needs work with pitchability; very good demeanor and killer mentality on the mound and I love it; also plus-plus hair flow.
Fastball 90-95; a lot of 93, 94; uses tall frame to create downhill plane; arm-side life; can cut it at 90, 91; ball explodes to plate and gets on hitters quick; gets good fastball extension; presently command better to arm side; command profile overall is solid-average and will get to plus; generated double-digit swing-and-misses; could see a velocity tick from where he sits comfortably with added strength. Future 70 grade.
Curveball 78-82; power breaking hammer; great shape with tight spin; hard vertical action; late, sharp hard snap coming from loose wrist; really snaps the breaker; shows good bite with great depth; comes from same arm motion as fastball; has ability to throw for strike and as chase pitch; true swing and miss pitch. Future 70 grade.
Changeup 82-85; best when in 82-83 range; great arm action; plays well off fastball; arm-side fade with vertical action; easy arm with loose wrist (noted from curveball), can improve depth and deception; needs to improve command profile in zone but has bat-missing ability; present below average but work in progress. Future 60 grade.
Role: 70; no. 2 starter
RHP Hunter Harvey (Orioles)
6-foot-3 accurate; nice broad shoulders and beautiful frame to add good weight; great physical projection; very athletic; 3/4 arm slot; uses high kick to create good momentum toward the plate; stretch: 1.40 to 1.53 range; has slight crossfire; also can open early and land toward first-base side; front-side glove can get big, creating deception before throwing front side through; ball explodes out of his hand; hips and shoulders rotate in unison and arm comes through fast; easy release; low-effort delivery; stays over top of pitches well; uses tall frame to create plane; repeatable mechanics; presently more of a thrower than pitcher and needs work with pitchability; very good demeanor and killer mentality on the mound and I love it; also plus-plus hair flow.
Fastball 90-95; a lot of 93, 94; uses tall frame to create downhill plane; arm-side life; can cut it at 90, 91; ball explodes to plate and gets on hitters quick; gets good fastball extension; presently command better to arm side; command profile overall is solid-average and will get to plus; generated double-digit swing-and-misses; could see a velocity tick from where he sits comfortably with added strength. Future 70 grade.
Curveball 78-82; power breaking hammer; great shape with tight spin; hard vertical action; late, sharp hard snap coming from loose wrist; really snaps the breaker; shows good bite with great depth; comes from same arm motion as fastball; has ability to throw for strike and as chase pitch; true swing and miss pitch. Future 70 grade.
Changeup 82-85; best when in 82-83 range; great arm action; plays well off fastball; arm-side fade with vertical action; easy arm with loose wrist (noted from curveball), can improve depth and deception; needs to improve command profile in zone but has bat-missing ability; present below average but work in progress. Future 60 grade.
Role: 70; no. 2 starter
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Good to see Cuban import and 2013 IBC Tiger draft class shortstop Erisbel Arruebarrena make his minor league debut after a late signing and extended spring training prep. Batting sixth, he went 0-3 with a walk and a run scored. The scouting on him is he has an excellent glove -- the type that can be among the best in the league -- with a weak bat profile. The walk is encouraging, so perhaps the plate discipline could work out, even if the hit tool isn't outstanding. Should be interesting to see how he fares against AA pitching. I can see him being a call-up late in the year for defensive purposes or even sooner if injuries strike and he shows he can hit a little. He'll be an intriguing player to watch.
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In a BP chat last week, I asked about Preston Tucker, an Astros outfield prospect who continues to hit at every level. The author said he didn't buy Tucker's bat. Jason Parks has a slightly different take. Most believe Tucker will have to hit very well to succeed, which is probably true. That's his best tool, though ZIPs thinks he's an average defender on the corners.
Preston Tucker, OF, Astros (Double-A Corpus Christi)
Preston Tucker can hit. He’s a below-average athlete with below-average speed and average arm utility, but the 23-year-old excels at the skill that matters the most for a position player: bat-to-ball. It’s a strong, short-to-the-ball swing that is built for loud contact and solid power. He’s not an all-world type and he’s unlikely to develop into a first-division player, despite the ability to strike right-handed pitching. But the former seventh-round pick from the University of Florida is a much better prospect than people realize, and it's all tied to his natural ability to put his bat on a baseball and drive it with authority. At the highest level, Tucker is probably a fringe-average corner defender, with his below-average speed and average arm likely pushing him to left field, which will put all the pressure on his bat to carve out the value. But if the hit tool plays to potential, it’s realistic to envision a future .275-plus hitter with 15– to 20–home run potential. Not a guy who will change the fortune of a franchise, but a cost-effective player who can contribute to a major league line-up. The Astros will take that all day long with a smile. —Jason Parks
Preston Tucker, OF, Astros (Double-A Corpus Christi)
Preston Tucker can hit. He’s a below-average athlete with below-average speed and average arm utility, but the 23-year-old excels at the skill that matters the most for a position player: bat-to-ball. It’s a strong, short-to-the-ball swing that is built for loud contact and solid power. He’s not an all-world type and he’s unlikely to develop into a first-division player, despite the ability to strike right-handed pitching. But the former seventh-round pick from the University of Florida is a much better prospect than people realize, and it's all tied to his natural ability to put his bat on a baseball and drive it with authority. At the highest level, Tucker is probably a fringe-average corner defender, with his below-average speed and average arm likely pushing him to left field, which will put all the pressure on his bat to carve out the value. But if the hit tool plays to potential, it’s realistic to envision a future .275-plus hitter with 15– to 20–home run potential. Not a guy who will change the fortune of a franchise, but a cost-effective player who can contribute to a major league line-up. The Astros will take that all day long with a smile. —Jason Parks
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Another positive note from BP on IBC Tigers prospect Corey Seager. Corey, please don't become BJ Upton...
Corey Seager, SS, Dodgers (Rancho Cucamonga)
When it comes to evaluating shortstop prospects with big frames, one of the toughest questions a scout must answer is whether that player can stick at the position. Prospects on the fast track to the major leagues may be able to hold down shortstop in the short term, since their bodies may not fully mature until later in their careers. Seager, however, may not fit that mold. The 19-year-old is filling out his large frame at a rapid pace, which will force him to move to third base sooner rather than later. But Seager will be known for his bat, which could help propel him into a star at the highest level. He shows developing over-the-fence power in batting practice and during games, creating tons of backspin. I was most impressed by his mental approach to hitting, stepping into the batter’s box with a patient, selective plan in every plate appearance. It isn’t all roses, though, as Seager still needs to work on the little things. After hitting a high fly to left field, Seager didn’t take a step out of the box until it had landed in fair territory between two oncoming defenders. Just about any runner would have ended up on second base, but he had to scramble to make it to first. Nonetheless, maturation should come in due time while Seager works on converting his tools into baseball skills. —Ron Shah
Corey Seager, SS, Dodgers (Rancho Cucamonga)
When it comes to evaluating shortstop prospects with big frames, one of the toughest questions a scout must answer is whether that player can stick at the position. Prospects on the fast track to the major leagues may be able to hold down shortstop in the short term, since their bodies may not fully mature until later in their careers. Seager, however, may not fit that mold. The 19-year-old is filling out his large frame at a rapid pace, which will force him to move to third base sooner rather than later. But Seager will be known for his bat, which could help propel him into a star at the highest level. He shows developing over-the-fence power in batting practice and during games, creating tons of backspin. I was most impressed by his mental approach to hitting, stepping into the batter’s box with a patient, selective plan in every plate appearance. It isn’t all roses, though, as Seager still needs to work on the little things. After hitting a high fly to left field, Seager didn’t take a step out of the box until it had landed in fair territory between two oncoming defenders. Just about any runner would have ended up on second base, but he had to scramble to make it to first. Nonetheless, maturation should come in due time while Seager works on converting his tools into baseball skills. —Ron Shah
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Big night last night for Eugenio Suarez, real-life and IBC Tigers prospect. He profiles as a shortstop, but has played some second base as well. Last night in AA, the 22-year-old put on a show:
2-5 2 R 2 HR 5 RBI
Nice night for the switch hitter. Suarez is still hitting a little lower than I'd like, an even .250, but his babip is lagging at .261. If he cuts back on the ks and boosts the walks to their traditional rates, he could end up being a solid shortstop. After hitting only 10 homers last year, he's already halfway to his 2013 total. ZIPs regards him as a high range SS and 2B with an above the average error rating, which is common for many young players. At AA at 22 years old, I see him getting some opportunities in Detroit.
2-5 2 R 2 HR 5 RBI
Nice night for the switch hitter. Suarez is still hitting a little lower than I'd like, an even .250, but his babip is lagging at .261. If he cuts back on the ks and boosts the walks to their traditional rates, he could end up being a solid shortstop. After hitting only 10 homers last year, he's already halfway to his 2013 total. ZIPs regards him as a high range SS and 2B with an above the average error rating, which is common for many young players. At AA at 22 years old, I see him getting some opportunities in Detroit.
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A nice start out of new IBC Tiger Braden Shipley. A day after Robbie Ray threw a gem in AAA, Shipley had a nice A start vs. Dayton:
6 1/3 IP, 2 H, 3 R (1 ER), 0 BB, 6 K
I think I'll see more of these types of starts at this level and I wonder how aggressive the Dbacks will be with him. On the one hand, he's 21. On the other, he's only been pitching for a few years. That's good for his durability, but I wonder if they'll move him quickly into the rough Cali League to see how he handles it. The Dbacks usually do well in developing pitchers, so I suspect they'll make the right choices. Shipley should be a fun one to watch.
6 1/3 IP, 2 H, 3 R (1 ER), 0 BB, 6 K
I think I'll see more of these types of starts at this level and I wonder how aggressive the Dbacks will be with him. On the one hand, he's 21. On the other, he's only been pitching for a few years. That's good for his durability, but I wonder if they'll move him quickly into the rough Cali League to see how he handles it. The Dbacks usually do well in developing pitchers, so I suspect they'll make the right choices. Shipley should be a fun one to watch.
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From BP on IBC Tiger Eugenio Suarez:
In a barren system like Detroit's, Suarez tends to shine more than he would in a deeper system. However, it does not come without merit. Some believe he will not stick at shortstop, but I have seen enough now to think it is feasible. Saurez has a legitimate 60 grade arm and has displayed throws from both sides. His range is perhaps only average, but the arm makes up for most of those deficiencies, and he has soft hands and quick feet. I am particularly impressed with how he works around the base. At the plate, he has minimal power but displays quick hands and ability to pull them inside and handle high-end velocity. His ability to pick up spin off the pitcher's hand is another trait that should not be overlooked. While he won’t be a star at the position, there will be enough to provide some second-division value. –Tucker Blair
In a barren system like Detroit's, Suarez tends to shine more than he would in a deeper system. However, it does not come without merit. Some believe he will not stick at shortstop, but I have seen enough now to think it is feasible. Saurez has a legitimate 60 grade arm and has displayed throws from both sides. His range is perhaps only average, but the arm makes up for most of those deficiencies, and he has soft hands and quick feet. I am particularly impressed with how he works around the base. At the plate, he has minimal power but displays quick hands and ability to pull them inside and handle high-end velocity. His ability to pick up spin off the pitcher's hand is another trait that should not be overlooked. While he won’t be a star at the position, there will be enough to provide some second-division value. –Tucker Blair
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And on Teoscar Hernandez:
Teoscar Hernandez, CF, Astros (High-A Lancaster)
With high-end draft picks Mark Appel and Carlos Correa currently on the shelf for what was recently one of the most prospect-laden clubs in all of the minor leagues, Teoscar Hernandez finds himself as the main attraction at the moment for the Lancaster JetHawks. He doesn't look entirely out of place in the role either, as prospects of his caliber typically would qualify as the big dog on most clubs in affiliated ball.
Hernandez brings a lot to the prospect table. The combination of above-average present speed (evidenced by home-to-first times in the 4.2 range) and above-average bat speed with remaining projection makes him a very interesting prospect. His frame projects for continued strength gains, giving him the potential to develop his raw power to its near plus ceiling. The question going forward will be how well that power will translate given his contact ability, which is currently being challenged at the age-appropriate High-A level. Hernandez's approach is aggressive, and he frequently lengthens his swing to attack the baseball. He has the physical tools to accomplish that goal, though his walk rate will likely remain low for as long as he continues to either check-swing or swing at every pitch.
On defense, he combines above-average speed with the necessary skills at this stage in the development curve to translate into quality defense in center field, despite possessing slightly below-average yet playable arm strength. From a raw tools standpoint, Hernandez possesses the upside of a first-division regular if everything clicks, though he seems to profile more realistically as a fourth outfielder/second-division regular. This type of profile would qualify Hernandez as one of the better prospects in many systems. —Todd Gold
Teoscar Hernandez, CF, Astros (High-A Lancaster)
With high-end draft picks Mark Appel and Carlos Correa currently on the shelf for what was recently one of the most prospect-laden clubs in all of the minor leagues, Teoscar Hernandez finds himself as the main attraction at the moment for the Lancaster JetHawks. He doesn't look entirely out of place in the role either, as prospects of his caliber typically would qualify as the big dog on most clubs in affiliated ball.
Hernandez brings a lot to the prospect table. The combination of above-average present speed (evidenced by home-to-first times in the 4.2 range) and above-average bat speed with remaining projection makes him a very interesting prospect. His frame projects for continued strength gains, giving him the potential to develop his raw power to its near plus ceiling. The question going forward will be how well that power will translate given his contact ability, which is currently being challenged at the age-appropriate High-A level. Hernandez's approach is aggressive, and he frequently lengthens his swing to attack the baseball. He has the physical tools to accomplish that goal, though his walk rate will likely remain low for as long as he continues to either check-swing or swing at every pitch.
On defense, he combines above-average speed with the necessary skills at this stage in the development curve to translate into quality defense in center field, despite possessing slightly below-average yet playable arm strength. From a raw tools standpoint, Hernandez possesses the upside of a first-division regular if everything clicks, though he seems to profile more realistically as a fourth outfielder/second-division regular. This type of profile would qualify Hernandez as one of the better prospects in many systems. —Todd Gold
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Who doesn't like seeing their guys on the BA Hot Sheet?
2. Teoscar Hernandez, cf, Astros
Teoscar Hernandez
Team: high Class A Lancaster (California)
Age: 21
Why He’s Here: .556/.625/.926 (15-for-27), 7 R, 4 2B, 2 HR, 7 RBIs, 5 BB, 8 SO, 2-for-2 SB
The Scoop: Yes, Hernandez plays in Lancaster, but at the end of April, the versatile outfielder wasn’t having a whole lot of fun hitting in one of baseball’s best hitting environments. A ferocious tear this week, much of it on the road, has raised his batting average 60 points, his slugging percentage nearly 100 points and put his season numbers right where you would hope to see them. Hernandez is a “cheap” five-tool player with no true plus tools, but a whole lot of 50s on his scouting card. If he can refine his routes to be an average center fielder, then he could be a regular.
9. Jorge Alfaro, c, Rangers
Jorge Alfaro
Team: high Class A Myrtle Beach (Carolina)
Age: 21
Why He’s Here: .400/.464/.800 (10-for-25), 8 R, 2 2B, 1 3B, 2 HR, 7 RBIs, 2 BB, 4 SO
The Scoop: Alfaro is a premium athlete, with two standout tools in his raw power and rocket arm strength. He’s still raw in a lot of areas, but he can get by on bat speed and tools at the lower levels, with an encouraging .293/.339/.440 line in 29 games despite a free-swinging approach. Alfaro has the ingredients to become a good defensive catcher, but he still has a lot of work to do to reach that level, as he’s thrown out just 22 percent of basestealers and leads Carolina League catchers in both passed balls (seven) and errors (six) in 22 games behind the plate.
2. Teoscar Hernandez, cf, Astros
Teoscar Hernandez
Team: high Class A Lancaster (California)
Age: 21
Why He’s Here: .556/.625/.926 (15-for-27), 7 R, 4 2B, 2 HR, 7 RBIs, 5 BB, 8 SO, 2-for-2 SB
The Scoop: Yes, Hernandez plays in Lancaster, but at the end of April, the versatile outfielder wasn’t having a whole lot of fun hitting in one of baseball’s best hitting environments. A ferocious tear this week, much of it on the road, has raised his batting average 60 points, his slugging percentage nearly 100 points and put his season numbers right where you would hope to see them. Hernandez is a “cheap” five-tool player with no true plus tools, but a whole lot of 50s on his scouting card. If he can refine his routes to be an average center fielder, then he could be a regular.
9. Jorge Alfaro, c, Rangers
Jorge Alfaro
Team: high Class A Myrtle Beach (Carolina)
Age: 21
Why He’s Here: .400/.464/.800 (10-for-25), 8 R, 2 2B, 1 3B, 2 HR, 7 RBIs, 2 BB, 4 SO
The Scoop: Alfaro is a premium athlete, with two standout tools in his raw power and rocket arm strength. He’s still raw in a lot of areas, but he can get by on bat speed and tools at the lower levels, with an encouraging .293/.339/.440 line in 29 games despite a free-swinging approach. Alfaro has the ingredients to become a good defensive catcher, but he still has a lot of work to do to reach that level, as he’s thrown out just 22 percent of basestealers and leads Carolina League catchers in both passed balls (seven) and errors (six) in 22 games behind the plate.
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There's nothing like some California League box scores to get you amped about your prospect hitters. In tonight's 9-8 affair between Lancaster and Rancho Cucamonga, IBC Tigers Teoscar Hernandez and Corey Seager both had great nights:
Hernandez: 2-5 2 R 1 HR 3 RBI to bring his average up to nearly .300. Tonight hitting out of the leadoff spot. His season line chock full of numbers:
.294/.376/.528 30 R 11 2B 6 3B 5 HR 33 RBI 11 SB 3 CS
Seager: 4-5 2 R 2 2B 1 HR 3 RBI to bring his average up to .336 for the year, after a very rocky April. Glad to see him adjusting to the league. He still needs to improve the walk rate, but he's been hot lately, getting his numbers up to:
.336/.391/.548 24 R 15 2B 2 3B 4 HR 21 RBI 5 SB 1 CS
Hernandez: 2-5 2 R 1 HR 3 RBI to bring his average up to nearly .300. Tonight hitting out of the leadoff spot. His season line chock full of numbers:
.294/.376/.528 30 R 11 2B 6 3B 5 HR 33 RBI 11 SB 3 CS
Seager: 4-5 2 R 2 2B 1 HR 3 RBI to bring his average up to .336 for the year, after a very rocky April. Glad to see him adjusting to the league. He still needs to improve the walk rate, but he's been hot lately, getting his numbers up to:
.336/.391/.548 24 R 15 2B 2 3B 4 HR 21 RBI 5 SB 1 CS
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See ball. Hit ball.
HITTER OF THE DAY: Teoscar Hernandez, cf — high Class A Lancaster (Astros)
It's a POD/HOD sweep for the Astros. Hernandez, who made an appearance in last week's Prospect Hot Sheet, continued a hot run with two homers, a double and five RBIs in an 8-4 win over Bakersfield. The Astros' No. 16 prospect entering the season has eight homers and leads the California League with 41 RBIs. According to milb.com, only Fresno's Adam Duvall (44) and Miami's Giancarlo Stanton (43) and Jose Abreu of the White Sox (42) have more RBIs in affiliated ball than the 21-year-old Hernandez.
HITTER OF THE DAY: Teoscar Hernandez, cf — high Class A Lancaster (Astros)
It's a POD/HOD sweep for the Astros. Hernandez, who made an appearance in last week's Prospect Hot Sheet, continued a hot run with two homers, a double and five RBIs in an 8-4 win over Bakersfield. The Astros' No. 16 prospect entering the season has eight homers and leads the California League with 41 RBIs. According to milb.com, only Fresno's Adam Duvall (44) and Miami's Giancarlo Stanton (43) and Jose Abreu of the White Sox (42) have more RBIs in affiliated ball than the 21-year-old Hernandez.
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BA Prospect Hot Sheet:
1. Corey Seager, ss, Dodgers
Corey SeagerTeam: high Class A Rancho Cucamonga (California)
Age: 20
Why He’s Here: .600/.613/1.133 (18-for-30), 5 R, 7 2B, 3 HR, 11 RBIs, 1 BB, 4 SO
The Scoop: A hamstring injury sidelined Seager for the last week of April, but he returned to action with a vengeance, going 35-for-78 (.449) with 15 extra-base hits in 19 games since coming off the disabled list. For emphasis, he slammed 10 extra-base hits in seven games this week while hitting .600.
Even though Rancho Cucamonga plays in a park that slightly favors pitchers, the 2012 first-rounder nevertheless leads the Cal League in average (.368) and doubles (18) while ranking second with a 1.011 OPS. Seager also ranks second in the Cal League in batting average on balls in play (.455), which will be tough to duplicate for any stretch of time in a more neutral hitting environment. A mature hitting approach, sweet lefty swing and power than projects as plus make him a prospect worthy of your attention, no matter his BABIP.
1. Corey Seager, ss, Dodgers
Corey SeagerTeam: high Class A Rancho Cucamonga (California)
Age: 20
Why He’s Here: .600/.613/1.133 (18-for-30), 5 R, 7 2B, 3 HR, 11 RBIs, 1 BB, 4 SO
The Scoop: A hamstring injury sidelined Seager for the last week of April, but he returned to action with a vengeance, going 35-for-78 (.449) with 15 extra-base hits in 19 games since coming off the disabled list. For emphasis, he slammed 10 extra-base hits in seven games this week while hitting .600.
Even though Rancho Cucamonga plays in a park that slightly favors pitchers, the 2012 first-rounder nevertheless leads the Cal League in average (.368) and doubles (18) while ranking second with a 1.011 OPS. Seager also ranks second in the Cal League in batting average on balls in play (.455), which will be tough to duplicate for any stretch of time in a more neutral hitting environment. A mature hitting approach, sweet lefty swing and power than projects as plus make him a prospect worthy of your attention, no matter his BABIP.
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Good to see IBC Tigers and MLB Tigers farmhand Eugenio Suarez turning it up and getting a promotion. Some have suggested Suarez may be the Tigers' 2014 answer at shortstop after the Iglesias injury and revolving door of garbage the MLB Tigers are putting out there.
The 23-year-old improved on his 2013 AA numbers in 2014:
2013: .253/.332/.387 24 2B 4 3B 9 HR 45 RBI 9 SB (111 games)
2014: .284/.347/.503 14 2B 1 3B 6 HR 29 RBI 7 SB (42 games)
That got him a promotion to AAA, where he had a nice game tonight, with his first AAA homer: 2-4 1 R 1 2B 1 HR 3 RBI. He's hitting .375 in a handful of games. We'll see if he gets the call at some point in the next month or so to show what he's got. Reports indicate he's improved on the basepaths and he's got good enough power to hit 10-15 homers in the big leagues with a good eye, which should be usable at shortstop.
The 23-year-old improved on his 2013 AA numbers in 2014:
2013: .253/.332/.387 24 2B 4 3B 9 HR 45 RBI 9 SB (111 games)
2014: .284/.347/.503 14 2B 1 3B 6 HR 29 RBI 7 SB (42 games)
That got him a promotion to AAA, where he had a nice game tonight, with his first AAA homer: 2-4 1 R 1 2B 1 HR 3 RBI. He's hitting .375 in a handful of games. We'll see if he gets the call at some point in the next month or so to show what he's got. Reports indicate he's improved on the basepaths and he's got good enough power to hit 10-15 homers in the big leagues with a good eye, which should be usable at shortstop.
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HITTER OF THE DAY: Jorge Alfaro, c — high Class A Myrtle Beach (Rangers)
Alfaro entered the season as the Rangers No. 2 prospect, but has been eclipsed, at least in terms of buzz and home runs, by Joey Gallo. But on this night, the 20-year-old catcher had the spotlight to himself by setting a career high with five hits, which tied the franchise record, and driving in four runs, three on a bases-loaded triple. Alfaro struggled in April in his first full month in the Carolina League, but has hit for more power in May and is up to .277/.325/.429 overall.
Alfaro entered the season as the Rangers No. 2 prospect, but has been eclipsed, at least in terms of buzz and home runs, by Joey Gallo. But on this night, the 20-year-old catcher had the spotlight to himself by setting a career high with five hits, which tied the franchise record, and driving in four runs, three on a bases-loaded triple. Alfaro struggled in April in his first full month in the Carolina League, but has hit for more power in May and is up to .277/.325/.429 overall.
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Good to see the kid getting some pub:
Suarez could soon be playing in Detroit
TOLEDO, Ohio -- How long will it take Eugenio Suarez to reach Detroit and get a shot at being the Tigers' starting shortstop?
If he keeps hitting like he has during his first week at Triple-A Toledo, it might not be long at all.
Proving he can hit at the highest minor-league level is the final test for the slick-fielding Suarez, who's considered the top defensive shortstop in the organization. He's batting .417 after going 3 for 4 with a homer that traveled well over 400 feet in Tuesday night's win over the Durham Bulls.
"Every day, I play hungry," said Suarez, who batted third in the order Tuesday. "I want quick to play in the big leagues. I don't want to play here for long. Every day, I am hungry."
He also made a spectacular play in the sixth inning, going deep into the hole to field the ball and then firing to first to get Wilson Betemit. Suarez threw all the way across the diamond on a line without bothering to land and set his feet.
"The kid's been highly thought of, and a game like tonight shows you why," Toledo manager Larry Parrish said.
Suarez's homer to left cleared Fifth Third Field and landed on Monroe Street. Suarez, who was a triple shy of hitting for the cycle, credited offseason weight lifting with his increased power.
Tigers shortstops Andrew Romine (.200) and Danny Worth (.189) are providing little offensively, and Romine has struggled some in the field recently. So calling up Suarez is extremely tempting.
Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski and former manager Jim Leyland, now a talent evaluator, watched Tuesday's game together. They came to scout all of the Mud Hens and had a lengthy pregame discussion with Parrish. Suarez, no doubt, was a topic of conversation.
"He's done very well this year," Dombrowski said of Suarez. "But he's only been here a short while. We thought he was ready to do something. He played well at Double-A, and we were ready to move him up."
Suarez batted .284 with a hefty .503 slugging percentage in 155 at-bats with Erie. He had nine doubles, one triple and six homers with 26 RBIs before leaving the SeaWolves.
"This gives me an opportunity," said Suarez, 22. "It's very good for me. I think of me playing in the big leagues. I don't know when, but this is good for my career."
Suarez got a close look during spring training after Tigers shortstop Jose Iglesias was ruled out for at least half of this season with fractured shins. But it was determined Suarez wasn't quite ready to make the jump to the majors at that time.
Now he's giving Detroit every reason to believe he's worth a shot in the near future.
Suarez works dutifully before games with Tigers minor-league infield coordinator Kevin Bradshaw to maintain defensive consistency.
Getting instruction from Tigers infield coach Omar Vizquel during spring training was a thrill for Suarez, who hails from Venezuela along with Vizquel.
"(Omar) knows he is my special player, my favorite player," Suarez said with a smile. "He had me working every day on my defense, on making the routine plays.
"He told me, 'You've got good defense, good hands. Keep working every day ... you've got a chance to play in the big leagues.'"
Making highlight-reel plays has never been the problem for Suarez, but the routine plays have been.
"It's about not losing the concentration," said Parrish , who added that the key to Suarez's power is his quick, short stroke and ability to meet the ball with authority.
"I throw to him," Parrish said. "And he has this finish where it's all of a sudden -- pow! It helps to be strong, but that is the late snap that good hitters have and other hitters want. Bat speed -- I don't think you can teach it."
Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler also saw something special during spring training.
Said Suarez: "(Kinsler) said, 'You've got good, quick hands. You've got a chance to play in the big leagues. You've got a chance to play as a combination with me in the big leagues.'"
A notice was posted in the Mud Hens clubhouse Tuesday that the team photo will be taken Sunday. With the way Suarez is playing, though, it's even money that he won't be around for it.
The kid is obsessed with making his dream come true as soon as possible.
Suarez could soon be playing in Detroit
TOLEDO, Ohio -- How long will it take Eugenio Suarez to reach Detroit and get a shot at being the Tigers' starting shortstop?
If he keeps hitting like he has during his first week at Triple-A Toledo, it might not be long at all.
Proving he can hit at the highest minor-league level is the final test for the slick-fielding Suarez, who's considered the top defensive shortstop in the organization. He's batting .417 after going 3 for 4 with a homer that traveled well over 400 feet in Tuesday night's win over the Durham Bulls.
"Every day, I play hungry," said Suarez, who batted third in the order Tuesday. "I want quick to play in the big leagues. I don't want to play here for long. Every day, I am hungry."
He also made a spectacular play in the sixth inning, going deep into the hole to field the ball and then firing to first to get Wilson Betemit. Suarez threw all the way across the diamond on a line without bothering to land and set his feet.
"The kid's been highly thought of, and a game like tonight shows you why," Toledo manager Larry Parrish said.
Suarez's homer to left cleared Fifth Third Field and landed on Monroe Street. Suarez, who was a triple shy of hitting for the cycle, credited offseason weight lifting with his increased power.
Tigers shortstops Andrew Romine (.200) and Danny Worth (.189) are providing little offensively, and Romine has struggled some in the field recently. So calling up Suarez is extremely tempting.
Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski and former manager Jim Leyland, now a talent evaluator, watched Tuesday's game together. They came to scout all of the Mud Hens and had a lengthy pregame discussion with Parrish. Suarez, no doubt, was a topic of conversation.
"He's done very well this year," Dombrowski said of Suarez. "But he's only been here a short while. We thought he was ready to do something. He played well at Double-A, and we were ready to move him up."
Suarez batted .284 with a hefty .503 slugging percentage in 155 at-bats with Erie. He had nine doubles, one triple and six homers with 26 RBIs before leaving the SeaWolves.
"This gives me an opportunity," said Suarez, 22. "It's very good for me. I think of me playing in the big leagues. I don't know when, but this is good for my career."
Suarez got a close look during spring training after Tigers shortstop Jose Iglesias was ruled out for at least half of this season with fractured shins. But it was determined Suarez wasn't quite ready to make the jump to the majors at that time.
Now he's giving Detroit every reason to believe he's worth a shot in the near future.
Suarez works dutifully before games with Tigers minor-league infield coordinator Kevin Bradshaw to maintain defensive consistency.
Getting instruction from Tigers infield coach Omar Vizquel during spring training was a thrill for Suarez, who hails from Venezuela along with Vizquel.
"(Omar) knows he is my special player, my favorite player," Suarez said with a smile. "He had me working every day on my defense, on making the routine plays.
"He told me, 'You've got good defense, good hands. Keep working every day ... you've got a chance to play in the big leagues.'"
Making highlight-reel plays has never been the problem for Suarez, but the routine plays have been.
"It's about not losing the concentration," said Parrish , who added that the key to Suarez's power is his quick, short stroke and ability to meet the ball with authority.
"I throw to him," Parrish said. "And he has this finish where it's all of a sudden -- pow! It helps to be strong, but that is the late snap that good hitters have and other hitters want. Bat speed -- I don't think you can teach it."
Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler also saw something special during spring training.
Said Suarez: "(Kinsler) said, 'You've got good, quick hands. You've got a chance to play in the big leagues. You've got a chance to play as a combination with me in the big leagues.'"
A notice was posted in the Mud Hens clubhouse Tuesday that the team photo will be taken Sunday. With the way Suarez is playing, though, it's even money that he won't be around for it.
The kid is obsessed with making his dream come true as soon as possible.
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Happy to see some return to normalcy for IBC Tiger farmhand Devon Travis. A short-in-stature 2B and Florida State product, Travis broke out last year, slashing .351/.418/518 over A/A+ with 16 HR 78 RBI 22 SB. This year was the leap to AA, which should prove to be his biggest challenge before he continues his climb. Travis only played a couple games before a pec strain has kept him out for more than a month.
After a sluggish start to his return, Travis has bounced back nicely the last two nights:
3-5 1 R 1 2B 2 RBI
2-4 2 R 1 3B 1 HR 1 RBI
The season line still isn't special: .203/.226/.305 1 HR 7 RBI 2 SB, but that's over a total of 14 games. He seems to be getting back on the right track, living up to why BA ranked him a top 100 prospect coming into the season.
After a sluggish start to his return, Travis has bounced back nicely the last two nights:
3-5 1 R 1 2B 2 RBI
2-4 2 R 1 3B 1 HR 1 RBI
The season line still isn't special: .203/.226/.305 1 HR 7 RBI 2 SB, but that's over a total of 14 games. He seems to be getting back on the right track, living up to why BA ranked him a top 100 prospect coming into the season.
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Couple weekend highlights:
Devon Travis continues to rake, going 4-4 with 1 HR 1 3B 2 RBI 3 R in AA. He's now up to .276.
Former AA teammate Eugenio Suarez, now in AAA Toledo, continues making the case for a MLB promotion, though Sunday he failed to record a hit. He went 0-0 with 4 walks, bumping his OBP to .500 in 10 games.
Braden Shipley got promoted to the A+ Cal League, where he had a good debut, striking out 7 over 6 innings, while allowing 6 hits, 2 walks and 4 runs. Let's see if the Dbacks keep him there all year or try to limit the pain of the Cal League.
Devon Travis continues to rake, going 4-4 with 1 HR 1 3B 2 RBI 3 R in AA. He's now up to .276.
Former AA teammate Eugenio Suarez, now in AAA Toledo, continues making the case for a MLB promotion, though Sunday he failed to record a hit. He went 0-0 with 4 walks, bumping his OBP to .500 in 10 games.
Braden Shipley got promoted to the A+ Cal League, where he had a good debut, striking out 7 over 6 innings, while allowing 6 hits, 2 walks and 4 runs. Let's see if the Dbacks keep him there all year or try to limit the pain of the Cal League.
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From BP:
Corey Seager, 3B, Dodgers (High-A Rancho Cucamonga)
I made the trek to Lancaster on Saturday night to take in what should have been a great pitching matchup between Julio Urias and Mark Appel. But it was Corey Seager’s 3-for-5 performance—including mashing a first-pitch, 95 mph fastball from Appel into the stratosphere—that stuck with me the most. To get a sense of how impressive the 20-year-old has been, take a look at his slash line of .400/.455/.700 in the month of May. But to fully appreciate Seager, one needs to observe his mental approach on a pitch-by-pitch basis at the plate, because it is his ability to pick apart pitchers with his brain that impresses me the most. Players that can do that quite frankly don’t belong in High-A, and I get the sense the Dodgers 2012 first round draft choice won’t be here for much longer. – Ron Shah
Corey Seager, 3B, Dodgers (High-A Rancho Cucamonga)
I made the trek to Lancaster on Saturday night to take in what should have been a great pitching matchup between Julio Urias and Mark Appel. But it was Corey Seager’s 3-for-5 performance—including mashing a first-pitch, 95 mph fastball from Appel into the stratosphere—that stuck with me the most. To get a sense of how impressive the 20-year-old has been, take a look at his slash line of .400/.455/.700 in the month of May. But to fully appreciate Seager, one needs to observe his mental approach on a pitch-by-pitch basis at the plate, because it is his ability to pick apart pitchers with his brain that impresses me the most. Players that can do that quite frankly don’t belong in High-A, and I get the sense the Dodgers 2012 first round draft choice won’t be here for much longer. – Ron Shah
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So happy to see Eugenio Suarez getting a shot in the majors and making the most of it. He started hot this year in AA, got promoted ti AAA, raked there and finally got to Detroit this week. In his first MLB start, he took it to my Red Sox, going 1-3 with two runs and his first career home run. The homer was off Jon Lester on a 3-2 pitch when he was down 1-2 earlier in the 7-pitch count.
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HITTER OF THE DAY: Teoscar Hernandez, of — high Class A Lancaster (Astros)
Joey Gallo homered in his Double-A debut, but everything's coming up Astros these days. The major league team is winning; George Springer and Jon Singleton are hitting long bombs; they just added Brady Aiken to the organization, they're getting prospects by accident (Domingo Santana) and Hernandez might be the hottest minor leaguer this month. After a slow April, Hernandez hit .344/.421/.634 in May and is at .381/.458/.762 in June, which includes a 4-for-6 night Monday with a homer and two doubles and his 21st stolen base. He was Houston's 16th-rated prospect entering the season, but that's sure to change when we update the prospect lists.
Joey Gallo homered in his Double-A debut, but everything's coming up Astros these days. The major league team is winning; George Springer and Jon Singleton are hitting long bombs; they just added Brady Aiken to the organization, they're getting prospects by accident (Domingo Santana) and Hernandez might be the hottest minor leaguer this month. After a slow April, Hernandez hit .344/.421/.634 in May and is at .381/.458/.762 in June, which includes a 4-for-6 night Monday with a homer and two doubles and his 21st stolen base. He was Houston's 16th-rated prospect entering the season, but that's sure to change when we update the prospect lists.
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Hitter of the Night: Preston Tucker, OF/1B, Astros (Corpus Christi, AA): 2-5, 3 R, 2 HR, BB, K.
I touched on Tucker yesterday, but he followed up that performance with an even better one. He’ll need to keep hitting, as almost all of his value will come from his bat, but he has excellent bat-to-ball skills, which can make up for a lot of weaknesses. He also doesn’t have the massive strikeout totals that typically plague power hitters.
Keep on keepin' on, Preston Tucker.
I touched on Tucker yesterday, but he followed up that performance with an even better one. He’ll need to keep hitting, as almost all of his value will come from his bat, but he has excellent bat-to-ball skills, which can make up for a lot of weaknesses. He also doesn’t have the massive strikeout totals that typically plague power hitters.
Keep on keepin' on, Preston Tucker.
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From BP on Tigers prospect Corey Seager. I've read more and more he may stick at shortstop. I've always envisioned him as a 3b, so it should be interesting to see how this develops. I suspect the signing or non-signing of Hanley determines a lot, although he could easily shift to 3b once Uribe is gone. Decisions...
The first two looks at Seager last year left me unimpressed, but this year he has made improvements at the plate and has shown the ability to make adjustments. Last year and early this year he expanded the zone and looked uncomfortable, especially with runners on base. After a brief DL stint, he came back with a more selectively aggressive approach and showed more frequent hard contact vs. quality stuff. The bat could be above average long term. His glove and arm are plus at present, which alone will keep him at shortstop for the time being. Overall, Seager is a smooth operator with a decent chance to produce solid offensive production and good defense from the left side of the infield. Above-average stuff and more advanced arms may highlight his problems with inside velocity, so Double-A will be a big test.
The first two looks at Seager last year left me unimpressed, but this year he has made improvements at the plate and has shown the ability to make adjustments. Last year and early this year he expanded the zone and looked uncomfortable, especially with runners on base. After a brief DL stint, he came back with a more selectively aggressive approach and showed more frequent hard contact vs. quality stuff. The bat could be above average long term. His glove and arm are plus at present, which alone will keep him at shortstop for the time being. Overall, Seager is a smooth operator with a decent chance to produce solid offensive production and good defense from the left side of the infield. Above-average stuff and more advanced arms may highlight his problems with inside velocity, so Double-A will be a big test.
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Finally some praise for Preston Tucker without caveats (from BA Hot Sheet Chat:
SK (Boston): Preston Tucker just keeps on hitting - is he one of those guys that sneaks up on people and turns into an above average regular?
J.J. Cooper: I think he has a solid chance to sneak up to be an average regular, which is really good. He's a left fielder in the big leagues, but he has legit power and doesn't strike out all that much. Lot to like.
SK (Boston): Preston Tucker just keeps on hitting - is he one of those guys that sneaks up on people and turns into an above average regular?
J.J. Cooper: I think he has a solid chance to sneak up to be an average regular, which is really good. He's a left fielder in the big leagues, but he has legit power and doesn't strike out all that much. Lot to like.
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Shout outs to my minor league all-stars:
Preston Tucker: Texas League (promoted to AAA)
.276/.348/.536 17 HR 43 RBI 3 SB
Jorge Alfaro: Carolina League
.265/.321/.438 8 HR 43 RBI 4 SB
Branden Kline: Carolina League
3.33 ERA 81 IP 63K 19 BB
Corey Seager: California League
.344/.390/.600 12 HR 49 RBI 5 SB
Teoscar Hernandez: California League
.292/.372/.553 12 HR 54 RBI 21 SB
Austin Kubitza: Midwest League
2.17 ERA 70.2 IP 78K 24 BB
Carlos Asuaje: South Atlantic League
.312/.433/564 8 HR 47 RBI 7 SB
Preston Tucker: Texas League (promoted to AAA)
.276/.348/.536 17 HR 43 RBI 3 SB
Jorge Alfaro: Carolina League
.265/.321/.438 8 HR 43 RBI 4 SB
Branden Kline: Carolina League
3.33 ERA 81 IP 63K 19 BB
Corey Seager: California League
.344/.390/.600 12 HR 49 RBI 5 SB
Teoscar Hernandez: California League
.292/.372/.553 12 HR 54 RBI 21 SB
Austin Kubitza: Midwest League
2.17 ERA 70.2 IP 78K 24 BB
Carlos Asuaje: South Atlantic League
.312/.433/564 8 HR 47 RBI 7 SB
