7. Foster Griffin, LHP
Double-A Northwest Arkansas
Age: 21
Griffin’s career turned around this year as he gained a tick of velocity, sharpened his curveball and did a better job of locating his fastball. He’s sitting 88-92 mph now but more than anything the ball comes out of his hand better, generating more swings and misses.
Guardian Apprentices
Moderator: Guardians
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Dakota Hudson, rhp, Cardinals. Just a year after he was drafted No. 34 overall, Hudson is headed to Triple-A Memphis, BA correspondent Derrick Goold reported. Hudson, who was 9-4, 2.53 at Double-A, was St. Louis’ No. 9 prospect at midseason. He possesses a mid-90s fastball with good movement and a hard slider.
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
10. Ryan Borucki, LHP, Blue Jays (23)
Double-A New Hampshire
Armed with an above-average changeup, Borucki, a 15th-rounder out of high school in Illinois in 2012, has battled through several injuries and begun his upper-level career in excellent fashion. He's whiffed 18 against just three walks over his first three starts with New Hampshire and has surrendered just 11 hits in 21 innings.
ERA IP H HR BB SO
0.64 14 9 0 1 14
Double-A New Hampshire
Armed with an above-average changeup, Borucki, a 15th-rounder out of high school in Illinois in 2012, has battled through several injuries and begun his upper-level career in excellent fashion. He's whiffed 18 against just three walks over his first three starts with New Hampshire and has surrendered just 11 hits in 21 innings.
ERA IP H HR BB SO
0.64 14 9 0 1 14
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
7. Bobby Dalbec, 3B, Red Sox (22)
image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-conte ... 4/3044.png
Low Class A Greenville (South Atlantic)
Dalbec has had a pretty brutal first full season as he’s struggled to get to his immense raw power. A hamate injury is partly to blame and as he’s gotten further away from the injury his power is starting to reappear. He’s hit eight of his 10 home runs in the past two months as he’s started to put together more consistent at-bats.
AVG OBP SLG XBH BB SB
.407 .529 .815 7 6 0
image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-conte ... 4/3044.png
Low Class A Greenville (South Atlantic)
Dalbec has had a pretty brutal first full season as he’s struggled to get to his immense raw power. A hamate injury is partly to blame and as he’s gotten further away from the injury his power is starting to reappear. He’s hit eight of his 10 home runs in the past two months as he’s started to put together more consistent at-bats.
AVG OBP SLG XBH BB SB
.407 .529 .815 7 6 0
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
BA Top 10 Padres
#10 Gabriel Arias
Track Record: Arias trained at the same program that produced Franklin Barreto and Gleyber Torres in Venezuela and was a starring member of the country's youth international teams. The Padres signed Arias for $1.9 million in 2016 and he proved worthy of his high profile, reaching low Class A Fort Wayne at age 17 and hitting .364 in the Midwest League playoffs.
Scouting Report: Arias is a gifted defender who projects as a plus shortstop. He is a lithe athlete with smooth actions and the range to make difficult plays look routine. His plus-plus, accurate arm can make throws from anywhere on the field. Arias' polished, reliable hands complement those skills to give him Gold Glove-potential in some evaluators' eyes. Offensively, Arias has developed faster than expected but still has a ways to go. He has plus bat speed and a short, controlled swing, but he gets pull-happy and is liable to chase pitches out of the zone. He shows average power in batting practice and is an average runner.
The Future: Arias' defense will carry him, and his offensive development will determine if he reaches his above-average everyday potential. He'll return to Fort Wayne to begin 2018.
#10 Gabriel Arias
Track Record: Arias trained at the same program that produced Franklin Barreto and Gleyber Torres in Venezuela and was a starring member of the country's youth international teams. The Padres signed Arias for $1.9 million in 2016 and he proved worthy of his high profile, reaching low Class A Fort Wayne at age 17 and hitting .364 in the Midwest League playoffs.
Scouting Report: Arias is a gifted defender who projects as a plus shortstop. He is a lithe athlete with smooth actions and the range to make difficult plays look routine. His plus-plus, accurate arm can make throws from anywhere on the field. Arias' polished, reliable hands complement those skills to give him Gold Glove-potential in some evaluators' eyes. Offensively, Arias has developed faster than expected but still has a ways to go. He has plus bat speed and a short, controlled swing, but he gets pull-happy and is liable to chase pitches out of the zone. He shows average power in batting practice and is an average runner.
The Future: Arias' defense will carry him, and his offensive development will determine if he reaches his above-average everyday potential. He'll return to Fort Wayne to begin 2018.
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Lewin Diaz, #9 1B prospect in baseball: http://m.mlb.com/prospects/2018?list=1b
The Twins signed Diaz out of the Dominican Republic in 2013 for $1.4 million, then watched him struggle a bit during his pro debut in the Dominican Summer League in 2014 and again in the Gulf Coast League in 2015. Things really started to click in the Appalachian League in 2016 and he made a successful move to full-season ball that included a Midwest League All Star nod in 2017.
Diaz's value lies in his offensive potential from the left side of the plate. Over the past two seasons, he's shown an ability to make consistent contact and drive the ball to all fields. He has tremendous raw power that he is still learning to tap into and it has been really encouraging that he has kept his strikeouts low and hasn't sold out to try to hit the ball over the fence. A below-average runner, Diaz will be a first baseman only and should be capable enough to not be a liability there.
As long as Diaz continues to watch his conditioning and continues to refine his approach at the plate, he should fit the profile of a run-producing first baseman in the future. He'll play all of the 2018 season at age 21.
The Twins signed Diaz out of the Dominican Republic in 2013 for $1.4 million, then watched him struggle a bit during his pro debut in the Dominican Summer League in 2014 and again in the Gulf Coast League in 2015. Things really started to click in the Appalachian League in 2016 and he made a successful move to full-season ball that included a Midwest League All Star nod in 2017.
Diaz's value lies in his offensive potential from the left side of the plate. Over the past two seasons, he's shown an ability to make consistent contact and drive the ball to all fields. He has tremendous raw power that he is still learning to tap into and it has been really encouraging that he has kept his strikeouts low and hasn't sold out to try to hit the ball over the fence. A below-average runner, Diaz will be a first baseman only and should be capable enough to not be a liability there.
As long as Diaz continues to watch his conditioning and continues to refine his approach at the plate, he should fit the profile of a run-producing first baseman in the future. He'll play all of the 2018 season at age 21.
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Lazaro Armenteros Shows Impressive Work Ethic
Athletics Organization Report
January 30, 2018 By Casey Tefertiller
With four plus tools already in his possession, outfielder Lazaro Armenteros has been working hard to improve his only weakness.
Armenteros, known by his nickname of Lazarito, has spent the offseason trying to improve his arm. Minor league pitching rehab coordinator Craig Lefferts put together a throwing program for the 18-year-old Armenteros, who spent much of his winter working out in Florida.
The high-profile Cuban, who signed for $3 million in 2016, is potentially a dynamic center fielder with both speed and power.
“His physical tools are exciting," farm director Keith Lieppman said. “He did a great job in (the Rookie-level) Arizona (League) last year. He has big power potential. He's strong physically for a kid of that age. He's dominating."
After spending time in the Dominican Summer League in his 2017 debut, he played 41 games in the AZL, where he hit .288/.376/.474 with four home runs and 10 stolen bases in 41 games. He drew 16 walks against 48 strikeouts.
The biggest surprise for Lieppman has been the righthanded batter’s strike-zone judgment. “He's very disciplined for a young hitter,” Lieppman said. “He's able to take a lot of tough pitches."
Armenteros’ best tool is his power, but he also grades above-average in terms of speed and fielding ability. At 6-foot, 182 pounds, he is muscular and still developing.
The long minor league journey has just begun for Armenteros, and he will have to conquer the challenges of a new country and the demanding schedule of professional baseball. However, the tools he has displayed early in his career provide hope that the Athletics may have landed a middle-of-the-order hitter for the future.
Read more at https://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/ ... DqcuiYd.99
Athletics Organization Report
January 30, 2018 By Casey Tefertiller
With four plus tools already in his possession, outfielder Lazaro Armenteros has been working hard to improve his only weakness.
Armenteros, known by his nickname of Lazarito, has spent the offseason trying to improve his arm. Minor league pitching rehab coordinator Craig Lefferts put together a throwing program for the 18-year-old Armenteros, who spent much of his winter working out in Florida.
The high-profile Cuban, who signed for $3 million in 2016, is potentially a dynamic center fielder with both speed and power.
“His physical tools are exciting," farm director Keith Lieppman said. “He did a great job in (the Rookie-level) Arizona (League) last year. He has big power potential. He's strong physically for a kid of that age. He's dominating."
After spending time in the Dominican Summer League in his 2017 debut, he played 41 games in the AZL, where he hit .288/.376/.474 with four home runs and 10 stolen bases in 41 games. He drew 16 walks against 48 strikeouts.
The biggest surprise for Lieppman has been the righthanded batter’s strike-zone judgment. “He's very disciplined for a young hitter,” Lieppman said. “He's able to take a lot of tough pitches."
Armenteros’ best tool is his power, but he also grades above-average in terms of speed and fielding ability. At 6-foot, 182 pounds, he is muscular and still developing.
The long minor league journey has just begun for Armenteros, and he will have to conquer the challenges of a new country and the demanding schedule of professional baseball. However, the tools he has displayed early in his career provide hope that the Athletics may have landed a middle-of-the-order hitter for the future.
Read more at https://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/ ... DqcuiYd.99
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Good start for new IBC Tiger Jose Adolis Garcia:
Derrick Goold @dgoold
1m
Adolis Garcia snaps tie with groundball single to left field. Scores Patrick Wisdom. #Cardinals now lead 2-1. To recap: Garcia has taken away a run from the #Twins with a throw home and brought home a run for #stlcards with a base hit.
Derrick Goold @dgoold
Go-ahead run at third. Two runners on, at the corners. One out. Game tied, 1-1.
Enter Adolis.
#cardinals #stlcards #MLB
Derrick Goold @dgoold
1m
Adolis Garcia snaps tie with groundball single to left field. Scores Patrick Wisdom. #Cardinals now lead 2-1. To recap: Garcia has taken away a run from the #Twins with a throw home and brought home a run for #stlcards with a base hit.
Derrick Goold @dgoold
Go-ahead run at third. Two runners on, at the corners. One out. Game tied, 1-1.
Enter Adolis.
#cardinals #stlcards #MLB
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
BA Hot Sheet:
6
Shane Bieber
Indians RHP
Notes:
Team: Double-A Akron (Eastern)
Age: 22
Why He’s Here: 1-0, 0.00, 13 IP, 6 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 17 SO, 0 BB, 0 HR
The Scoop: After a successful turn in Double-A toward the end of last season, Bieber returned to Akron this year and picked right up where he left off. He’s earned a reputation as an extreme control artist and has lived up to that billing in his first two starts, during which did not surrender a walk. He and fellow Indians prospect Aaron Civale should compete all year long for the title of best control in the minors. (JN)
15
Tyler Stephenson
Reds C
Notes:
Team: high Class A Daytona (Florida State)
Age: 21
Why He’s Here: .455/.561/.727 (15-for-33), 4 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 7 RBIs, 6 BB, 4 SO.
The Scoop: Stephenson’s young career has so far been overwhelmed by injuries. The Reds’ 2015 first-round pick saw his 2016 season ruined by a concussion and a wrist injury and last year was derailed by a thumb injury. Healthy to start this season, Stephenson has responded with the best stretch of his still young career. He’s second in the Florida State League in on-base percentage and leads the league in slugging percentage. Stephenson was seen as one of the best hitting/power prospects in the 2015 high school draft class, and catchers often take longer to develop. (JJ)
6
Shane Bieber
Indians RHP
Notes:
Team: Double-A Akron (Eastern)
Age: 22
Why He’s Here: 1-0, 0.00, 13 IP, 6 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 17 SO, 0 BB, 0 HR
The Scoop: After a successful turn in Double-A toward the end of last season, Bieber returned to Akron this year and picked right up where he left off. He’s earned a reputation as an extreme control artist and has lived up to that billing in his first two starts, during which did not surrender a walk. He and fellow Indians prospect Aaron Civale should compete all year long for the title of best control in the minors. (JN)
15
Tyler Stephenson
Reds C
Notes:
Team: high Class A Daytona (Florida State)
Age: 21
Why He’s Here: .455/.561/.727 (15-for-33), 4 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 7 RBIs, 6 BB, 4 SO.
The Scoop: Stephenson’s young career has so far been overwhelmed by injuries. The Reds’ 2015 first-round pick saw his 2016 season ruined by a concussion and a wrist injury and last year was derailed by a thumb injury. Healthy to start this season, Stephenson has responded with the best stretch of his still young career. He’s second in the Florida State League in on-base percentage and leads the league in slugging percentage. Stephenson was seen as one of the best hitting/power prospects in the 2015 high school draft class, and catchers often take longer to develop. (JJ)
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Some praise for 3B O'Neil Cruz:
https://www.milb.com/milb/news/oneil-cr ... _276185640
Cruz was 6-foot-1 when was first being scouted by big league teams, but a growth spurt shot him all the way up to 6-6. The left-handed hitter is long and gangly, but according to Toregas, also boasts eye-popping power.
"It's power to all fields," said the former Major League catcher. "I've seen him hit balls the other way that are hit further than a lot of righties can pull 'em. He's got raw power. I mean, his singles are impressive. He has the speed tool to go with it, so he doesn't have to hit the ball good to get a hit. He's got a lot of good things on his side, but he can hit a home run to any part of the yard, anywhere he goes.
"It's the most power I've seen since my big league time."
https://www.milb.com/milb/news/oneil-cr ... _276185640
Cruz was 6-foot-1 when was first being scouted by big league teams, but a growth spurt shot him all the way up to 6-6. The left-handed hitter is long and gangly, but according to Toregas, also boasts eye-popping power.
"It's power to all fields," said the former Major League catcher. "I've seen him hit balls the other way that are hit further than a lot of righties can pull 'em. He's got raw power. I mean, his singles are impressive. He has the speed tool to go with it, so he doesn't have to hit the ball good to get a hit. He's got a lot of good things on his side, but he can hit a home run to any part of the yard, anywhere he goes.
"It's the most power I've seen since my big league time."
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
BA Hot Sheet for 5/21/18:
6
Shane Bieber
Indians RHP
Notes:
Team: Double-A Akron (Eastern)
Age: 22
Why He’s Here: 1-0, 0.00, 13 IP, 6 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 17 SO, 0 BB, 0 HR
The Scoop: After a successful turn in Double-A toward the end of last season, Bieber returned to Akron this year and picked right up where he left off. He’s earned a reputation as an extreme control artist and has lived up to that billing in his first two starts, during which did not surrender a walk. He and fellow Indians prospect Aaron Civale should compete all year long for the title of best control in the minors. (JN)
6
Shane Bieber
Indians RHP
Notes:
Team: Double-A Akron (Eastern)
Age: 22
Why He’s Here: 1-0, 0.00, 13 IP, 6 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 17 SO, 0 BB, 0 HR
The Scoop: After a successful turn in Double-A toward the end of last season, Bieber returned to Akron this year and picked right up where he left off. He’s earned a reputation as an extreme control artist and has lived up to that billing in his first two starts, during which did not surrender a walk. He and fellow Indians prospect Aaron Civale should compete all year long for the title of best control in the minors. (JN)
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
Fernando Kelli, OF, Cubs
Age: 19. B-T: B-R. Ht.: 6-0. Wt.: 180. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2016.
Kelli signed with the Cubs for $60,000 in January 2016, but he struggled during the 2016 season in his first run through the DSL. In 2017, Kelli fared much better, winning the DSL MVP award. Kelli is a premium athlete with ample quick-twitch and explosion. He’s a 70 runner with a quick burst in his first step, with his 58 stolen bases by far the most in the league (the next closest player stole 35 bases). Kelli’s speed translates into good range in center field and he used his slightly above-average arm effectively to lead the league with 13 outfield assists. Kelli has quick, strong hands and a sound swing, which helps him handle premium velocity effectively. While Kelli got himself into trouble in 2016 with a free-swinging approach, he became a more selective hitter in 2017, an adjustment that helped fuel his breakthrough. Kelli has a lively, athletic frame, but he isn’t that physical and doesn’t project to be a major power threat. He could hit 8-12 home runs with a bunch of doubles and triples.
Age: 19. B-T: B-R. Ht.: 6-0. Wt.: 180. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2016.
Kelli signed with the Cubs for $60,000 in January 2016, but he struggled during the 2016 season in his first run through the DSL. In 2017, Kelli fared much better, winning the DSL MVP award. Kelli is a premium athlete with ample quick-twitch and explosion. He’s a 70 runner with a quick burst in his first step, with his 58 stolen bases by far the most in the league (the next closest player stole 35 bases). Kelli’s speed translates into good range in center field and he used his slightly above-average arm effectively to lead the league with 13 outfield assists. Kelli has quick, strong hands and a sound swing, which helps him handle premium velocity effectively. While Kelli got himself into trouble in 2016 with a free-swinging approach, he became a more selective hitter in 2017, an adjustment that helped fuel his breakthrough. Kelli has a lively, athletic frame, but he isn’t that physical and doesn’t project to be a major power threat. He could hit 8-12 home runs with a bunch of doubles and triples.
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
From BA's hot sheet:
5. Oneil Cruz, SS, Pirates
Team: Low Class A West Virginia (South Atlantic)
Age: 19
Why He’s Here: .394/.394/.606 (13-for-33), 7 R, 3 2B, 2 3B, 6 RBIs, 0 BB, 4 SO, 1-for-1 SB
The Scoop: Cruz is just scratching the surface of his potential as he gains more body control over his (at least) 6-foot-6 frame. His strength, leverage and bat speed produce towering blasts when everything is in sync, and while he will probably always have a high strikeout rate, he’s made progress cutting that down since the start of the season as he learns to maintain a more consistent swing path and cover his gigantic strike zone. A corner outfield spot is likely Cruz’s position when he gets to the big leagues, but if everything clicks at the plate, he could certainly profile there. (BB)
5. Oneil Cruz, SS, Pirates
Team: Low Class A West Virginia (South Atlantic)
Age: 19
Why He’s Here: .394/.394/.606 (13-for-33), 7 R, 3 2B, 2 3B, 6 RBIs, 0 BB, 4 SO, 1-for-1 SB
The Scoop: Cruz is just scratching the surface of his potential as he gains more body control over his (at least) 6-foot-6 frame. His strength, leverage and bat speed produce towering blasts when everything is in sync, and while he will probably always have a high strikeout rate, he’s made progress cutting that down since the start of the season as he learns to maintain a more consistent swing path and cover his gigantic strike zone. A corner outfield spot is likely Cruz’s position when he gets to the big leagues, but if everything clicks at the plate, he could certainly profile there. (BB)
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
4. Oneil Cruz, SS, Pirates
Team: Low Class A West Virginia (South Atlantic)
Age: 19
Why He’s Here: .571/.600/1.071 (8-for-14), 5 R, 1 2B, 0 3B, 2 HR, 5 RBIs, 1 BB, 1 SO, 1-for-1 SB
The Scoop: Because of his lanky, 6-foot-6 frame, there’s a lot of discussion around where Cruz might play if and when he moves off of shortstop. For now, though, he’s just really fun to watch. He’s got electric raw power, a strong throwing arm and improving plate discipline, and his 10 homers are one off the system's lead. He came over from the Dodgers in the Tony Watson deal last summer and is looking like a very nice acquisition. (JB)
Team: Low Class A West Virginia (South Atlantic)
Age: 19
Why He’s Here: .571/.600/1.071 (8-for-14), 5 R, 1 2B, 0 3B, 2 HR, 5 RBIs, 1 BB, 1 SO, 1-for-1 SB
The Scoop: Because of his lanky, 6-foot-6 frame, there’s a lot of discussion around where Cruz might play if and when he moves off of shortstop. For now, though, he’s just really fun to watch. He’s got electric raw power, a strong throwing arm and improving plate discipline, and his 10 homers are one off the system's lead. He came over from the Dodgers in the Tony Watson deal last summer and is looking like a very nice acquisition. (JB)
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
https://www.mlb.com/indians/news/shane- ... 1080808103
Bieber takes charge, quiets hot Cards in finale
Rookie righty fires six strong innings, collects 1st MLB hit
ST. LOUIS -- After the baseball dropped deep into the left-center field gap, Shane Bieber rounded first and punched the gas. The Indians pitcher sprinted hard into second, sliding into the bag with a double as his teammates laughed and cheered inside Busch Stadium's visitors' dugout.
Tribe fans had to be wondering: Is there anything this kid can't do?
View Full Game Coverage
In a 5-1 victory over the Cardinals on Wednesday night, Bieber continued to impress with his poise on the mound. The right-hander logged six strong innings for the American League Central-leading Indians, limiting St. Louis to one run and helping his club salvage a win in the three-game Interleague series.
"He seems to pitch more maturely than his age would indicate," Indians manager Terry Francona said. "He starts throwing his breaking ball, gets some chase, doesn't panic, game doesn't speed up. That's a really nice trait for anybody, let alone a kid who has four Major League starts."
Bieber also entertained with his bat.
With one out in the fourth inning, Cardinals starter Jack Flaherty fired a first-pitch fastball over the heart of the plate and Bieber did not miss. The pitcher drove the heater and legged out a double for his first career Major League hit. The ball was thrown in to the Cleveland dugout, where fellow pitcher Trevor Bauer pretended to throw it into the stands before putting it away for safe keeping.
After the win, Bieber still had his doubts that the baseball in his locker was indeed the one he hit for the double.
"I'm surprised I got it back, because I saw they threw it to Trevor," Bieber said with a laugh. "So I don't know if that's the actual ball. I'll probably give it to my parents and let them decide what to do, and then hopefully there's many more to come."
Bieber did not come around to score, but his true responsibilities lie on the hill, not in the batter's box.
The 23-year-old Bieber scattered six hits, ended with five strikeouts and issued one walk, which came back to bite him. After issuing a four-pitch free pass to the hot-hitting Matt Carpenter in the third inning, Jose Martinez later pushed a pitch into right for a one-out RBI single. By that point, the Indians' offense had already built a lead that would hold.
"He was fun tonight, catching him," Indians catcher Roberto Perez. "Especially for me, being behind the plate with him for the first time. It was fun. He pumped the fastball. He's got command of all his pitches. He goes after hitters."
Flaherty was chased after allowing four runs in four innings, in which Edwin Encarnacion hit his 19th homer of the season and Lonnie Chisenhall made it back-to-back shots with his first of the year.
Jason Kipnis and Tyler Naquin also contributed run-scoring hits in the win, which improved Cleveland's record to 44-35 on the season.
With his performance, Bieber improved to 3-0 with a 2.22 ERA through four career starts for Cleveland. Since rejoining the rotation on June 17 following an injury to starter Carlos Carrasco, Bieber has posted a 0.96 ERA with 21 strikeouts and three walks in 18 2/3 innings in three turns for the Tribe.
"On a night like tonight, it was a little more humid," Bieber said. "The adversity, there were some things that you're not totally used to. So just to be able to go out there and try to throw as many innings as possible and give the team a chance to win, I'm happy with it."
Perez was more than impressed.
"He's very confident right now," said the catcher. "Since he came up, he's had great outings. He's taking his confidence to another level. To be able to do that in your first year, that's how mature he is. Hopefully he keeps doing that for us."
MOMENTS THAT MATTERED
Great escape: The Cardinals went to the opposite field off Bieber on five of their first six hits, including a leadoff double by Carpenter and a one-out single by Martinez in the fifth. That put runners on the corners with one out against the rookie pitcher, who proceeded to strike out Marcell Ozuna before escaping with a fielder's choice groundout off the bat of Yadier Molina. That preserved a 4-1 lead for the Tribe.
"I was surprised by the way he settled himself after pressure," Perez said. "Guy on first base and third base, less than two outs, he came back and struck out Ozuna and got Yadi to ground out. That was huge."
Back-to-back bombs: Encarnacion and Chisenhall greeted Flaherty with consecutive home runs -- the first to deep left and the next down the right-field line -- to begin the second inning. For Encarnacion, it marked his third home run in five games. For Chisenhall, it snapped a 47-game home run drought dating back to July 7 of last season.
HE SAID IT
"I got down to first, and I was like, 'Man, that was a long way. I don't know if I can make it to two.' No, I saw they were still running, and [Ozuna] just kind of continued to carry that ball after he fielded it off the ground, so I thought, 'Hey, there's a chance.' [First-base coach Sandy Alomar Jr.] told me to take two, so I went for it. I tried to get the pants dirty a little, look athletic for once. It was fun." --Bieber, on his double
"He didn't seem all flustered. He just likes to play baseball and took a pretty nice swing. After the first at-bat, he was like, 'I was on him.' , 'OK. If you say so.'" --Francona, on Bieber's hitting
SOUND SMART
Prior to Bieber's hit on Wednesday, the last Indians pitcher to double for his first career MLB hit was Jake Westbrook, who did so on June 17, 2006, against the Brewers. Cleveland pitchers Corey Kluber and Josh Tomlin both hit a double in Interleague Play during the 2016 season.
UP NEXT
Following an off-day on Thursday, right-hander Trevor Bauer (7-5, 2.44 ERA) is scheduled to take the mound for the Indians in a 10:05 p.m. ET tilt against the A's on Friday at the Coliseum. Bauer has a 2.36 ERA with 72 strikeouts vs. 17 walks in 53 1/3 innings (eight starts) on the road this year. Oakland will counter with righty Paul Blackburn (1-2, 8.83 ERA).
Bieber takes charge, quiets hot Cards in finale
Rookie righty fires six strong innings, collects 1st MLB hit
ST. LOUIS -- After the baseball dropped deep into the left-center field gap, Shane Bieber rounded first and punched the gas. The Indians pitcher sprinted hard into second, sliding into the bag with a double as his teammates laughed and cheered inside Busch Stadium's visitors' dugout.
Tribe fans had to be wondering: Is there anything this kid can't do?
View Full Game Coverage
In a 5-1 victory over the Cardinals on Wednesday night, Bieber continued to impress with his poise on the mound. The right-hander logged six strong innings for the American League Central-leading Indians, limiting St. Louis to one run and helping his club salvage a win in the three-game Interleague series.
"He seems to pitch more maturely than his age would indicate," Indians manager Terry Francona said. "He starts throwing his breaking ball, gets some chase, doesn't panic, game doesn't speed up. That's a really nice trait for anybody, let alone a kid who has four Major League starts."
Bieber also entertained with his bat.
With one out in the fourth inning, Cardinals starter Jack Flaherty fired a first-pitch fastball over the heart of the plate and Bieber did not miss. The pitcher drove the heater and legged out a double for his first career Major League hit. The ball was thrown in to the Cleveland dugout, where fellow pitcher Trevor Bauer pretended to throw it into the stands before putting it away for safe keeping.
After the win, Bieber still had his doubts that the baseball in his locker was indeed the one he hit for the double.
"I'm surprised I got it back, because I saw they threw it to Trevor," Bieber said with a laugh. "So I don't know if that's the actual ball. I'll probably give it to my parents and let them decide what to do, and then hopefully there's many more to come."
Bieber did not come around to score, but his true responsibilities lie on the hill, not in the batter's box.
The 23-year-old Bieber scattered six hits, ended with five strikeouts and issued one walk, which came back to bite him. After issuing a four-pitch free pass to the hot-hitting Matt Carpenter in the third inning, Jose Martinez later pushed a pitch into right for a one-out RBI single. By that point, the Indians' offense had already built a lead that would hold.
"He was fun tonight, catching him," Indians catcher Roberto Perez. "Especially for me, being behind the plate with him for the first time. It was fun. He pumped the fastball. He's got command of all his pitches. He goes after hitters."
Flaherty was chased after allowing four runs in four innings, in which Edwin Encarnacion hit his 19th homer of the season and Lonnie Chisenhall made it back-to-back shots with his first of the year.
Jason Kipnis and Tyler Naquin also contributed run-scoring hits in the win, which improved Cleveland's record to 44-35 on the season.
With his performance, Bieber improved to 3-0 with a 2.22 ERA through four career starts for Cleveland. Since rejoining the rotation on June 17 following an injury to starter Carlos Carrasco, Bieber has posted a 0.96 ERA with 21 strikeouts and three walks in 18 2/3 innings in three turns for the Tribe.
"On a night like tonight, it was a little more humid," Bieber said. "The adversity, there were some things that you're not totally used to. So just to be able to go out there and try to throw as many innings as possible and give the team a chance to win, I'm happy with it."
Perez was more than impressed.
"He's very confident right now," said the catcher. "Since he came up, he's had great outings. He's taking his confidence to another level. To be able to do that in your first year, that's how mature he is. Hopefully he keeps doing that for us."
MOMENTS THAT MATTERED
Great escape: The Cardinals went to the opposite field off Bieber on five of their first six hits, including a leadoff double by Carpenter and a one-out single by Martinez in the fifth. That put runners on the corners with one out against the rookie pitcher, who proceeded to strike out Marcell Ozuna before escaping with a fielder's choice groundout off the bat of Yadier Molina. That preserved a 4-1 lead for the Tribe.
"I was surprised by the way he settled himself after pressure," Perez said. "Guy on first base and third base, less than two outs, he came back and struck out Ozuna and got Yadi to ground out. That was huge."
Back-to-back bombs: Encarnacion and Chisenhall greeted Flaherty with consecutive home runs -- the first to deep left and the next down the right-field line -- to begin the second inning. For Encarnacion, it marked his third home run in five games. For Chisenhall, it snapped a 47-game home run drought dating back to July 7 of last season.
HE SAID IT
"I got down to first, and I was like, 'Man, that was a long way. I don't know if I can make it to two.' No, I saw they were still running, and [Ozuna] just kind of continued to carry that ball after he fielded it off the ground, so I thought, 'Hey, there's a chance.' [First-base coach Sandy Alomar Jr.] told me to take two, so I went for it. I tried to get the pants dirty a little, look athletic for once. It was fun." --Bieber, on his double
"He didn't seem all flustered. He just likes to play baseball and took a pretty nice swing. After the first at-bat, he was like, 'I was on him.' , 'OK. If you say so.'" --Francona, on Bieber's hitting
SOUND SMART
Prior to Bieber's hit on Wednesday, the last Indians pitcher to double for his first career MLB hit was Jake Westbrook, who did so on June 17, 2006, against the Brewers. Cleveland pitchers Corey Kluber and Josh Tomlin both hit a double in Interleague Play during the 2016 season.
UP NEXT
Following an off-day on Thursday, right-hander Trevor Bauer (7-5, 2.44 ERA) is scheduled to take the mound for the Indians in a 10:05 p.m. ET tilt against the A's on Friday at the Coliseum. Bauer has a 2.36 ERA with 72 strikeouts vs. 17 walks in 53 1/3 innings (eight starts) on the road this year. Oakland will counter with righty Paul Blackburn (1-2, 8.83 ERA).
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
Ronny Mauricio, SS, New York Mets (Profile)
Level: Rookie Age: 17 Org Rank: 17 FV: 40
Line: 3-for-6, 3B
Notes
I’ve been open about my preference for physically projectable players like Mauricio on the IFA market, though acknowledge the validity of the many other talent acquisition strategies that exist in that market now that pool space is finite. Mauricio, still just 17, is hitting .361/.338/.541 so far in the GCL. He’s a switch-hitting shortstop with power from the right side and a better chance to stay at short than most guys his size. He won’t turn 18 until April.
Level: Rookie Age: 17 Org Rank: 17 FV: 40
Line: 3-for-6, 3B
Notes
I’ve been open about my preference for physically projectable players like Mauricio on the IFA market, though acknowledge the validity of the many other talent acquisition strategies that exist in that market now that pool space is finite. Mauricio, still just 17, is hitting .361/.338/.541 so far in the GCL. He’s a switch-hitting shortstop with power from the right side and a better chance to stay at short than most guys his size. He won’t turn 18 until April.
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
Some Baseball America team Top 10 news:
6. Anthony Kay, LHP
High Class A St. Lucie
Age: 23
A first-round pick in 2016 out of Connecticut, Kay had Tommy John surgery after signing, which delayed his pro debut until this season. Once healthy, the hard-nosed southpaw advanced quickly to the Florida State League thanks to a 93-94 mph fastball that touches 96 and an elite spin-rate curveball. Kay also throws a quality changeup. Developing his curve as a swing-and-miss pitch could make him a No. 3 starter.
7. Ronny Mauricio, SS
Rookie-level Gulf Coast League
Age: 17
One of the top prospects on the international market in 2017, Mauricio has handled an assignment to domestic Rookie ball this year, showing plus bat speed and plus athleticism in the Gulf Coast League. The ball comes off his bat with authority because of exceptional hand speed and a swing that stays on plane through the hitting zone. Mauricio’s plus arm and body control will keep him at shortstop as he advances.
6. Anthony Kay, LHP
High Class A St. Lucie
Age: 23
A first-round pick in 2016 out of Connecticut, Kay had Tommy John surgery after signing, which delayed his pro debut until this season. Once healthy, the hard-nosed southpaw advanced quickly to the Florida State League thanks to a 93-94 mph fastball that touches 96 and an elite spin-rate curveball. Kay also throws a quality changeup. Developing his curve as a swing-and-miss pitch could make him a No. 3 starter.
7. Ronny Mauricio, SS
Rookie-level Gulf Coast League
Age: 17
One of the top prospects on the international market in 2017, Mauricio has handled an assignment to domestic Rookie ball this year, showing plus bat speed and plus athleticism in the Gulf Coast League. The ball comes off his bat with authority because of exceptional hand speed and a swing that stays on plane through the hitting zone. Mauricio’s plus arm and body control will keep him at shortstop as he advances.
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
Hot sheet:
7. Jose Adolis Garcia, OF, Cardinals
Team: Triple-A Memphis (Pacific Coast)
Age: 25
Why He’s Here: .360/.385/1.160 (9-for-25), 8 R, 3 2B, 1 3B, 5 HR, 14 RBIs, 1 BB, 6 SO, 0-for-1 SB
The Scoop: Garcia led all minor league hitters this past week with 29 total bases, which he managed to do with only nine hits. Of course, if you make sure every one of your hits goes for extra bases, you can still do a lot of damage. The Cardinals seem to love having too many minor league outfielders. A few years ago it was Randal Grichuk, Tommy Pham and Stephen Piscotty in Triple-A. Now it’s Garcia, Tyler O’Neill, Randy Arozarena and Oscar Mercado all trying to battle for a spot in St. Louis. (JJ)
7. Jose Adolis Garcia, OF, Cardinals
Team: Triple-A Memphis (Pacific Coast)
Age: 25
Why He’s Here: .360/.385/1.160 (9-for-25), 8 R, 3 2B, 1 3B, 5 HR, 14 RBIs, 1 BB, 6 SO, 0-for-1 SB
The Scoop: Garcia led all minor league hitters this past week with 29 total bases, which he managed to do with only nine hits. Of course, if you make sure every one of your hits goes for extra bases, you can still do a lot of damage. The Cardinals seem to love having too many minor league outfielders. A few years ago it was Randal Grichuk, Tommy Pham and Stephen Piscotty in Triple-A. Now it’s Garcia, Tyler O’Neill, Randy Arozarena and Oscar Mercado all trying to battle for a spot in St. Louis. (JJ)
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
17. Oneil Cruz, SS, Pirates
Team: low Class A West Virginia (South Atlantic)
Age: 19
Why He’s Here: .318/.348/.682 (7-for-22), 5 R, 2 2B, 0 3B, 2 HR, 2 RBIs, 1 BB, 5 SO, 0-for-1 SB
The Scoop: All season, Cruz has been one of the most intriguing players in the minor leagues. At 6-foot-6 he’s unlikely to play shortstop, but his raw power should allow him to profile just about anywhere he’d need to move. His 14 homers and 59 RBIs are both second in the system (behind Will Craig) and his .294 average is fifth in the system among players at full-season affiliates. (JN)
Team: low Class A West Virginia (South Atlantic)
Age: 19
Why He’s Here: .318/.348/.682 (7-for-22), 5 R, 2 2B, 0 3B, 2 HR, 2 RBIs, 1 BB, 5 SO, 0-for-1 SB
The Scoop: All season, Cruz has been one of the most intriguing players in the minor leagues. At 6-foot-6 he’s unlikely to play shortstop, but his raw power should allow him to profile just about anywhere he’d need to move. His 14 homers and 59 RBIs are both second in the system (behind Will Craig) and his .294 average is fifth in the system among players at full-season affiliates. (JN)
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
Good to see Tigers prospect Jose Miranda recognized for his strong season. The 2016 Supplemental second round pick was recently promoted to A+ Fort Myers. Miranda slashed .273/.323/.434 for A Cedar Rapids over 106 games, with 14 HR 74 RBI 22 doubles, 1 triple and a 52k/27bb ratio. Hitting 3rd, two batters behind Royce Lewis and one in front of Alex Kirilloff, Miranda hit his first HR of the year tonight in Lakeland. He's played 3B his first two games in the FSL, despite playing primarily 2B in the MWL.
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
HELIUM
Alejandro Kirk, C, Blue Jays
The Scoop: Signed out of Mexico in 2016, Kirk got just two at-bats in 2017 before making this year his de facto first full season. And boy, did he make an impression. He punished baseballs from open to close, finishing among the top five in the league in all three triple-slash category. He's a big boy who makes a big impact, particularly on fastballs. He knows how to work the count, too, and walked 12 more times than he struck out this season. He split his time behind the plate and at DH, and allowed just one passed ball and threw out 43 percent of runners when he strapped on the tools of ignorance.
Alejandro Kirk, C, Blue Jays
The Scoop: Signed out of Mexico in 2016, Kirk got just two at-bats in 2017 before making this year his de facto first full season. And boy, did he make an impression. He punished baseballs from open to close, finishing among the top five in the league in all three triple-slash category. He's a big boy who makes a big impact, particularly on fastballs. He knows how to work the count, too, and walked 12 more times than he struck out this season. He split his time behind the plate and at DH, and allowed just one passed ball and threw out 43 percent of runners when he strapped on the tools of ignorance.
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
BA Gulf Coast League Top 20 Prospects:
2
Ronny Mauricio
Mets SS
Notes:
Age: 17. B-T: B-R. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 180.
Signed: Dominican Republic, 2017.
The Mets signed Mauricio last year for $2.1 million, the most money the franchise has ever given a Dominican amateur player. At the time, Mauricio was a highly-regarded shortstop with a high waist and long arms on an extremely skinny body at 6-foot-2, 165 pounds. Since then, Mauricio has grown two inches and filled out with considerable strength gains, driving the ball with impact and making a strong impression with his defense.
Mauricio was batting .322/.333/.510 at the end of July before tailing off in the final month when he looked run down at the end of the season. Mauricio whips the barrel through the zone with a loose, easy swing from both sides of the plate, keeping his long arms inside the ball well to make frequent contact with impact. Mauricio already shows the ability to hammer the ball from both sides of the plate, and with plenty more room to fill out, he could develop plus or better future power.
Mauricio is a below-average runner with some risk he could move off the position depending how big he gets, but he handles himself well at shortstop. He gets quick reads off the bat and good body control with a knack for slowing the game down. He has smooth hands, transfers the ball quickly and has a 70-grade arm.
2018 Stats
.279/.307/.421
197 AB, 3 HR, 31 RBI, 10 BB, 31 SO
2
Ronny Mauricio
Mets SS
Notes:
Age: 17. B-T: B-R. Ht: 6-4. Wt: 180.
Signed: Dominican Republic, 2017.
The Mets signed Mauricio last year for $2.1 million, the most money the franchise has ever given a Dominican amateur player. At the time, Mauricio was a highly-regarded shortstop with a high waist and long arms on an extremely skinny body at 6-foot-2, 165 pounds. Since then, Mauricio has grown two inches and filled out with considerable strength gains, driving the ball with impact and making a strong impression with his defense.
Mauricio was batting .322/.333/.510 at the end of July before tailing off in the final month when he looked run down at the end of the season. Mauricio whips the barrel through the zone with a loose, easy swing from both sides of the plate, keeping his long arms inside the ball well to make frequent contact with impact. Mauricio already shows the ability to hammer the ball from both sides of the plate, and with plenty more room to fill out, he could develop plus or better future power.
Mauricio is a below-average runner with some risk he could move off the position depending how big he gets, but he handles himself well at shortstop. He gets quick reads off the bat and good body control with a knack for slowing the game down. He has smooth hands, transfers the ball quickly and has a 70-grade arm.
2018 Stats
.279/.307/.421
197 AB, 3 HR, 31 RBI, 10 BB, 31 SO
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
Roundup of Baseball America league Top 20 Prospects:
Pioneer League
11
James Marinan
Billings (Reds) RHP
Notes:
Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht: 6-5. Wt: 220. Drafted: HS -- Lake Worth, Fla., 2017 (4)/Dodgers
Marinan started his second pro season back in the Arizona League before he was included in a trade from the Dodgers to the Reds in a deal for a couple of big league bullpen arms. With a tall, strong body, Marinan certainly looks the part on the mound. He has a likely ceiling as a fourth or fifth starter with good feel for pitching and a competitive streak that allows him to pitch through tougher outings.
Marinan's best pitch is a plus fastball from 92-96 mph, a heavy ball with life down in the zone. The curveball at 75-79 mph shows depth but is inconsistent at the finish, and his changeup shows promise. His command can be inconsistent because of his tall body and the long arm circle in his delivery.
"(He has) a great arm. He competes and the frame is really good," Billings manager Ray Martinez said. "He's a tall kid (who is) strong and durable."
2018 Stats
3-2, 3.98 ERA
43 IP, 49 H, 19 BB, 39 SO
Southern League
6
Tony Santillan
Pensacola (Reds) RHP
Notes:
Age: 21. B-T: R-R. HT: 6-3. WT: 240. Drafted: HS—Arlington, Texas, 2015 (2).
Extreme velocity paired with poor control once marked Santillan as a possible relief candidate. He began to shed those concerns with a breakout 2018 season he split between high Class A Daytona and Pensacola. He recorded a 3.08 ERA in 26 starts with rates of 8.1 strikeouts and (a career best) 2.3 walks per nine innings.
Everything Santillan throws is hard, and he operates with three plus or better pitches at times, particularly now that he can find the strike zone and work ahead of batters. He sits in the mid-90s and tops out at 98 mph with a heavy, double-plus fastball that runs to his arm side. He throws a slider with short tilt but high velocity that peaks near 90 mph.
Santillan has made significant strides with his firm high-80s changeup that fades to his arm side. He earns praise for his makeup, loose arm and ability to hold baserunners—he allowed just two stolen base attempts in 11 starts.
Stats:
4-3, 3.61 ERA
62 IP, 16 BB, 61 SO, 8 HR
Sally League
8
Anthony Kay
Columbia (Mets) LHP
Notes:
Age: 23. B-T: L-L. Ht: 6-0. Wt: 218.
Drafted: Connecticut, 2016 (1).
Fellow first-rounder David Peterson posted a 1.82 ERA with Columbia while Kay scuffled to a 4.54 ERA, but it was Kay who impressed scouts thanks to better stuff and his ability to be a potential mid-rotation starter.
In his first season back after Tommy John surgery, Kay showed a plus 91-95 mph fastball with above-average command and late life. He showed an ability to cut it and manipulate the spin and movement of his heater. Kay pairs that fastball with a plus 76-80 mph curveball that has excellent spin and depth and that he can locate to both sides of the plate.
Kay's changeup is less consistent right now but flashes above-average as well. For an experienced college pitcher, Kay's pitch selection and feel is less advanced than scouts expected, but he has upside as he moves farther away from surgery.
2018 Stats
4-4, 4.54 ERA
69 IP, 73 H, 22 BB, 78 SO
Midwest League
12
Miguel Amaya
South Bend (Cubs) C
Notes:
Age: 19. B-T: R-R. HT: 6-1. WT: 185. Signed: Panama, 2015.
This was a very good year for catchers in the Midwest League. Between Hernandez, Amaya, Ryan Jeffers, Hendrik Clementina and Luis Campusano, the league was full of intriguing young catchers. Amaya was among the most interesting.
Amaya took a big step forward this year with his power, as he hit nine home runs and slugged .500 in the first half of the season before wearing down in the second half. Amaya does chase out of the strike zone too often and needs to improve his ability to recognize breaking balls, but he has future average or even above-average power.
Defensively, Amaya has an above-average arm, is a calm receiver who has a chance to be at least an average defender. Considering his age and tools, he has a chance to be the rare catcher who contributes both offensively and defensively.
2018 Stats
.256/.349/.403
414 AB, 12 HR, 52 RBI, 50 BB, 91 SO
14
Lazaro Armenteros
Beloit (Athletics) OF
Notes:
Age: 19. B-T: R-R. HT: 6-0. WT: 182. Signed: Cuba, 2016.
Armenteros' first exposure to full season ball was a successful one. He missed most of June with a trip to the disabled list for a knee injury, but otherwise was healthy and productive. Armenteros' athleticism draws attention, and that translates into some quality tools such as power.
Evaluators cited Armenteros' power as some of the best in the league, earning plus-plus raw power grades. His profile is clearly power over hit, but he has shown some developing plate discipline (although 10 hit-by-pitches helped his on-base percentage as well) that gives him a chance to be an average hitter as well.
Armenteros is already limited to left field - he didn't play one game in center or right field all year. But his bat should be productive enough to make a corner-only profile work.
2018 Stats
.277/.374/.401
292 AB, 8 HR, 39 RBI, 36 BB, 115 SO
Gulf Coast League
2
Ronny Mauricio
Mets SS
Notes:
Age: 17. B-T: B-R. HT: 6-4. WT: 180.
Signed: Dominican Republic, 2017.
The Mets signed Mauricio last year for $2.1 million, the most money the franchise has ever given a Dominican amateur player. At the time, Mauricio was a highly-regarded shortstop with a high waist and long arms on an extremely skinny body at 6-foot-2, 165 pounds. Since then, Mauricio has grown two inches and filled out with considerable strength gains, driving the ball with impact and making a strong impression with his defense.
Mauricio was batting .322/.333/.510 at the end of July before tailing off in the final month when he looked run down at the end of the season. Mauricio whips the barrel through the zone with a loose, easy swing from both sides of the plate, keeping his long arms inside the ball well to make frequent contact with impact. Mauricio already shows the ability to hammer the ball from both sides of the plate, and with plenty more room to fill out, he could develop plus or better future power.
Mauricio is a below-average runner with some risk he could move off the position depending how big he gets, but he handles himself well at shortstop. He gets quick reads off the bat and good body control with a knack for slowing the game down. He has smooth hands, transfers the ball quickly and has a 70-grade arm.
2018 Stats
.279/.307/.421
197 AB, 3 HR, 31 RBI, 10 BB, 31 SO
Florida State League
14
Tony Santillan
Daytona (Reds) RHP
Notes:
Age: 21. B-T: R-R. Ht: 6-3. Wt: 240. Drafted: HS—Seguin, Texas, 2015 (2nd round).
It's been a slow climb for Santillan, who made it to high Class A in 2018 in his third full season as a pro. The breakout he experienced, however, showed the industry his full potential. He finished in the top five in the Reds' system in ERA, strikeouts and wins, and made it to Double-A in the second half.
Every time he takes the mound, Santillan brings the hard stuff. He uses a high-effort delivery to blow hitters away with a mid-90s fastball that can touch 97-98. He couples his fastball with a high 80s swing-and-miss slider and a firm changeup in the same range that has made some strides over the past year.
The main concerns surrounding Santillan involve his lack of finesse in both his arsenal and his delivery. Nothing he throws is particularly soft, and his delivery is a little bit stiff at times.
2018 Stats
6-4, 2.70 ERA
86.2 IP, 81 H, 22 BB, 73 SO
Appy League
12
Alejandro Kirk
Bluefield (Blue Jays) C
Notes:
Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 5-9. Wt: 220. Signed: Mexico, 2016.
Kirk signed out of Mexico in 2016 and played in only one game in the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League in 2017 because of a hand injury. He initially fractured his left hand in a car collision, then re-injured his hand when hit by a pitch in his first GCL game. Kirk made up for lost time this summer as one of the best hitters in the Appy League, where he hit .354/.443/.558 with 10 home runs, 33 walks and 21 strikeouts.
Kirk has a solid approach at the plate and a smooth stroke, but he faces skepticism about his future defensive home because of his frame. Listed at 5-foot-9 and 220 pounds, Kirk has well below-average athleticism and speed and will need to clean up his body to stick behind the plate.
If he can, he has tools for the job with solid arm strength and game-calling ability. He threw out 43 percent of basestealers in the Appy League, and coaches were also impressed with his blocking ability.
2018 Stats
.354/.443/.558
206 AB, 10 HR, 57 RBI, 33 BB, 21 SO
Pioneer League
11
James Marinan
Billings (Reds) RHP
Notes:
Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht: 6-5. Wt: 220. Drafted: HS -- Lake Worth, Fla., 2017 (4)/Dodgers
Marinan started his second pro season back in the Arizona League before he was included in a trade from the Dodgers to the Reds in a deal for a couple of big league bullpen arms. With a tall, strong body, Marinan certainly looks the part on the mound. He has a likely ceiling as a fourth or fifth starter with good feel for pitching and a competitive streak that allows him to pitch through tougher outings.
Marinan's best pitch is a plus fastball from 92-96 mph, a heavy ball with life down in the zone. The curveball at 75-79 mph shows depth but is inconsistent at the finish, and his changeup shows promise. His command can be inconsistent because of his tall body and the long arm circle in his delivery.
"(He has) a great arm. He competes and the frame is really good," Billings manager Ray Martinez said. "He's a tall kid (who is) strong and durable."
2018 Stats
3-2, 3.98 ERA
43 IP, 49 H, 19 BB, 39 SO
Southern League
6
Tony Santillan
Pensacola (Reds) RHP
Notes:
Age: 21. B-T: R-R. HT: 6-3. WT: 240. Drafted: HS—Arlington, Texas, 2015 (2).
Extreme velocity paired with poor control once marked Santillan as a possible relief candidate. He began to shed those concerns with a breakout 2018 season he split between high Class A Daytona and Pensacola. He recorded a 3.08 ERA in 26 starts with rates of 8.1 strikeouts and (a career best) 2.3 walks per nine innings.
Everything Santillan throws is hard, and he operates with three plus or better pitches at times, particularly now that he can find the strike zone and work ahead of batters. He sits in the mid-90s and tops out at 98 mph with a heavy, double-plus fastball that runs to his arm side. He throws a slider with short tilt but high velocity that peaks near 90 mph.
Santillan has made significant strides with his firm high-80s changeup that fades to his arm side. He earns praise for his makeup, loose arm and ability to hold baserunners—he allowed just two stolen base attempts in 11 starts.
Stats:
4-3, 3.61 ERA
62 IP, 16 BB, 61 SO, 8 HR
Sally League
8
Anthony Kay
Columbia (Mets) LHP
Notes:
Age: 23. B-T: L-L. Ht: 6-0. Wt: 218.
Drafted: Connecticut, 2016 (1).
Fellow first-rounder David Peterson posted a 1.82 ERA with Columbia while Kay scuffled to a 4.54 ERA, but it was Kay who impressed scouts thanks to better stuff and his ability to be a potential mid-rotation starter.
In his first season back after Tommy John surgery, Kay showed a plus 91-95 mph fastball with above-average command and late life. He showed an ability to cut it and manipulate the spin and movement of his heater. Kay pairs that fastball with a plus 76-80 mph curveball that has excellent spin and depth and that he can locate to both sides of the plate.
Kay's changeup is less consistent right now but flashes above-average as well. For an experienced college pitcher, Kay's pitch selection and feel is less advanced than scouts expected, but he has upside as he moves farther away from surgery.
2018 Stats
4-4, 4.54 ERA
69 IP, 73 H, 22 BB, 78 SO
Midwest League
12
Miguel Amaya
South Bend (Cubs) C
Notes:
Age: 19. B-T: R-R. HT: 6-1. WT: 185. Signed: Panama, 2015.
This was a very good year for catchers in the Midwest League. Between Hernandez, Amaya, Ryan Jeffers, Hendrik Clementina and Luis Campusano, the league was full of intriguing young catchers. Amaya was among the most interesting.
Amaya took a big step forward this year with his power, as he hit nine home runs and slugged .500 in the first half of the season before wearing down in the second half. Amaya does chase out of the strike zone too often and needs to improve his ability to recognize breaking balls, but he has future average or even above-average power.
Defensively, Amaya has an above-average arm, is a calm receiver who has a chance to be at least an average defender. Considering his age and tools, he has a chance to be the rare catcher who contributes both offensively and defensively.
2018 Stats
.256/.349/.403
414 AB, 12 HR, 52 RBI, 50 BB, 91 SO
14
Lazaro Armenteros
Beloit (Athletics) OF
Notes:
Age: 19. B-T: R-R. HT: 6-0. WT: 182. Signed: Cuba, 2016.
Armenteros' first exposure to full season ball was a successful one. He missed most of June with a trip to the disabled list for a knee injury, but otherwise was healthy and productive. Armenteros' athleticism draws attention, and that translates into some quality tools such as power.
Evaluators cited Armenteros' power as some of the best in the league, earning plus-plus raw power grades. His profile is clearly power over hit, but he has shown some developing plate discipline (although 10 hit-by-pitches helped his on-base percentage as well) that gives him a chance to be an average hitter as well.
Armenteros is already limited to left field - he didn't play one game in center or right field all year. But his bat should be productive enough to make a corner-only profile work.
2018 Stats
.277/.374/.401
292 AB, 8 HR, 39 RBI, 36 BB, 115 SO
Gulf Coast League
2
Ronny Mauricio
Mets SS
Notes:
Age: 17. B-T: B-R. HT: 6-4. WT: 180.
Signed: Dominican Republic, 2017.
The Mets signed Mauricio last year for $2.1 million, the most money the franchise has ever given a Dominican amateur player. At the time, Mauricio was a highly-regarded shortstop with a high waist and long arms on an extremely skinny body at 6-foot-2, 165 pounds. Since then, Mauricio has grown two inches and filled out with considerable strength gains, driving the ball with impact and making a strong impression with his defense.
Mauricio was batting .322/.333/.510 at the end of July before tailing off in the final month when he looked run down at the end of the season. Mauricio whips the barrel through the zone with a loose, easy swing from both sides of the plate, keeping his long arms inside the ball well to make frequent contact with impact. Mauricio already shows the ability to hammer the ball from both sides of the plate, and with plenty more room to fill out, he could develop plus or better future power.
Mauricio is a below-average runner with some risk he could move off the position depending how big he gets, but he handles himself well at shortstop. He gets quick reads off the bat and good body control with a knack for slowing the game down. He has smooth hands, transfers the ball quickly and has a 70-grade arm.
2018 Stats
.279/.307/.421
197 AB, 3 HR, 31 RBI, 10 BB, 31 SO
Florida State League
14
Tony Santillan
Daytona (Reds) RHP
Notes:
Age: 21. B-T: R-R. Ht: 6-3. Wt: 240. Drafted: HS—Seguin, Texas, 2015 (2nd round).
It's been a slow climb for Santillan, who made it to high Class A in 2018 in his third full season as a pro. The breakout he experienced, however, showed the industry his full potential. He finished in the top five in the Reds' system in ERA, strikeouts and wins, and made it to Double-A in the second half.
Every time he takes the mound, Santillan brings the hard stuff. He uses a high-effort delivery to blow hitters away with a mid-90s fastball that can touch 97-98. He couples his fastball with a high 80s swing-and-miss slider and a firm changeup in the same range that has made some strides over the past year.
The main concerns surrounding Santillan involve his lack of finesse in both his arsenal and his delivery. Nothing he throws is particularly soft, and his delivery is a little bit stiff at times.
2018 Stats
6-4, 2.70 ERA
86.2 IP, 81 H, 22 BB, 73 SO
Appy League
12
Alejandro Kirk
Bluefield (Blue Jays) C
Notes:
Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 5-9. Wt: 220. Signed: Mexico, 2016.
Kirk signed out of Mexico in 2016 and played in only one game in the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League in 2017 because of a hand injury. He initially fractured his left hand in a car collision, then re-injured his hand when hit by a pitch in his first GCL game. Kirk made up for lost time this summer as one of the best hitters in the Appy League, where he hit .354/.443/.558 with 10 home runs, 33 walks and 21 strikeouts.
Kirk has a solid approach at the plate and a smooth stroke, but he faces skepticism about his future defensive home because of his frame. Listed at 5-foot-9 and 220 pounds, Kirk has well below-average athleticism and speed and will need to clean up his body to stick behind the plate.
If he can, he has tools for the job with solid arm strength and game-calling ability. He threw out 43 percent of basestealers in the Appy League, and coaches were also impressed with his blocking ability.
2018 Stats
.354/.443/.558
206 AB, 10 HR, 57 RBI, 33 BB, 21 SO
-
Guardians
- Posts: 5001
- Joined: Sun Jan 29, 2012 1:00 am
- Location: Tallahassee, FL
- Name: Pat Gillespie
Re: Tiger Cubs
https://www.mlb.com/news/anthony-kay-at ... e-coverage
Mets hope history repeats itself in Kay's recovery
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- In 2009, the Mets spent a second-round pick on a left-hander from Melville High in East Setauket, N.Y. He needed Tommy John surgery before he threw his first professional pitch and didn't make his debut until three years after he signed.
Steven Matz eventually regained his health, helped pitch New York to the 2015 World Series and is firmly established in the big league rotation. And now the Mets are hoping history repeats itself.
Mets Spring Training report | Top 30 Prospects | Prospects' Spring Training stats
In 2013, they took another Melville High lefty, this time in the 29th round. New York couldn't sign Anthony Kay then but did three years later after he pitched collegiately at Connecticut. After taking him in the first round in 2016, the Mets learned he had an elbow injury that eventually required Tommy John surgery and would delay his pro debut until 2018.
Because they didn't overlap at Melville, Kay only knew Matz in passing. But he said the veteran offered him encouragement after he went under the knife.
"He told me just pretty much be patient, just listen to what they tell you and that's really about it," said Kay, who was in big league camp as a nonroster invitee this spring and had a locker near Matz's. "That's really all you can do."
Kay said he felt a little something in his elbow in his final amateur start, a no-decision in the NCAA tournament against Florida during which current Mets No.1 prospect Pete Alonso slammed a two-run homer against him. But he certainly didn't expect it would cost him hundreds of thousands of dollars -- New York reduced his bonus to $1.1 million after his post-Draft physical -- and two years of his pro career. He tried a platelet-rich plasma injection but ultimately needed reconstructive elbow surgery.
"When I found out it was torn, I was definitely surprised about it," Kay said. "It's tough because you want to be on the field as much as possible. Especially when you first get drafted, you want to make a good first impression.
"It was definitely tough not being on the field, not being able to show everyone what I can do. But now I'm good and healthy and I'm letting everyone know what I can do."
Kay finally returned to the mound last season and made 23 starts between two Class A stops. He recorded a 4.26 ERA with a 123/49 K/BB ratio in 122 2/3 innings, and he's now the most advanced starting pitching prospect in the system.
Like many pitchers who endure the arduous rehab process associated with Tommy John surgery, Kay has better stuff than he had before he got hurt. At Connecticut, he sat around 91-92 mph with his fastball and had a fringy curveball. His changeup was often his best pitch for the Huskies, but there were times last year when it was his third-best offering behind a 92-96 mph heater and a much improved curve.
Both Kay's fastball and curveball stand out for their high spin rates. He changed the way he throws his curve after returning to Connecticut during rehab and getting advice from former Husky and current Giants farmhand John Russell. Kay used to let his curve sort of float off his fingertips but now concentrates on ripping his arm down to his hip after he releases it.
"I think everything's a lot better," he said. "The fastball's a little bit harder, I've definitely got a better curveball. Just working on the changeup a little bit, getting it consistent. The way it's been this spring, it's been very consistent and it's got a lot of movement on it."
Matz first reached Citi Field at age 24, and it's possible that Kay could continue to follow his path and do so late this season. He'll begin this season in Double-A and could move quickly if he continues to regain the feel for pitching he had before he injured his elbow.
Jim Callis is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow @jimcallisMLB on Twitter. Listen to him on the weekly Pipeline Podcast.
Mets hope history repeats itself in Kay's recovery
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- In 2009, the Mets spent a second-round pick on a left-hander from Melville High in East Setauket, N.Y. He needed Tommy John surgery before he threw his first professional pitch and didn't make his debut until three years after he signed.
Steven Matz eventually regained his health, helped pitch New York to the 2015 World Series and is firmly established in the big league rotation. And now the Mets are hoping history repeats itself.
Mets Spring Training report | Top 30 Prospects | Prospects' Spring Training stats
In 2013, they took another Melville High lefty, this time in the 29th round. New York couldn't sign Anthony Kay then but did three years later after he pitched collegiately at Connecticut. After taking him in the first round in 2016, the Mets learned he had an elbow injury that eventually required Tommy John surgery and would delay his pro debut until 2018.
Because they didn't overlap at Melville, Kay only knew Matz in passing. But he said the veteran offered him encouragement after he went under the knife.
"He told me just pretty much be patient, just listen to what they tell you and that's really about it," said Kay, who was in big league camp as a nonroster invitee this spring and had a locker near Matz's. "That's really all you can do."
Kay said he felt a little something in his elbow in his final amateur start, a no-decision in the NCAA tournament against Florida during which current Mets No.1 prospect Pete Alonso slammed a two-run homer against him. But he certainly didn't expect it would cost him hundreds of thousands of dollars -- New York reduced his bonus to $1.1 million after his post-Draft physical -- and two years of his pro career. He tried a platelet-rich plasma injection but ultimately needed reconstructive elbow surgery.
"When I found out it was torn, I was definitely surprised about it," Kay said. "It's tough because you want to be on the field as much as possible. Especially when you first get drafted, you want to make a good first impression.
"It was definitely tough not being on the field, not being able to show everyone what I can do. But now I'm good and healthy and I'm letting everyone know what I can do."
Kay finally returned to the mound last season and made 23 starts between two Class A stops. He recorded a 4.26 ERA with a 123/49 K/BB ratio in 122 2/3 innings, and he's now the most advanced starting pitching prospect in the system.
Like many pitchers who endure the arduous rehab process associated with Tommy John surgery, Kay has better stuff than he had before he got hurt. At Connecticut, he sat around 91-92 mph with his fastball and had a fringy curveball. His changeup was often his best pitch for the Huskies, but there were times last year when it was his third-best offering behind a 92-96 mph heater and a much improved curve.
Both Kay's fastball and curveball stand out for their high spin rates. He changed the way he throws his curve after returning to Connecticut during rehab and getting advice from former Husky and current Giants farmhand John Russell. Kay used to let his curve sort of float off his fingertips but now concentrates on ripping his arm down to his hip after he releases it.
"I think everything's a lot better," he said. "The fastball's a little bit harder, I've definitely got a better curveball. Just working on the changeup a little bit, getting it consistent. The way it's been this spring, it's been very consistent and it's got a lot of movement on it."
Matz first reached Citi Field at age 24, and it's possible that Kay could continue to follow his path and do so late this season. He'll begin this season in Double-A and could move quickly if he continues to regain the feel for pitching he had before he injured his elbow.
Jim Callis is a reporter for MLB.com. Follow @jimcallisMLB on Twitter. Listen to him on the weekly Pipeline Podcast.
