12. Vince Velasquez, rhp, Quad Cities (Astros)
Age: 21. B-T: B-R. Ht.: 6-3. Wt.: 203. Drafted: HS—Pomona, Calif., 2010 (2).
Velasquez has had to battle through injury problems—he had a stress fracture in 2009 and Tommy John surgery in 2011—but he has rebounded to show excellent stuff in a solid season at Quad Cities.
Velasquez has plus velocity with a fastball that sits at 90-93 mph and touches 95. His changeup is quite advanced for a pitcher in low Class A, but he needs to sharpen his loopy curveball. The lack of a consistent breaking ball is a concern, but some scouts like him more than McCullers because he seems to be a safer bet to remain a starting pitcher.
Following the Baby Nats...
Moderator: Yankees
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Yankees
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None of my prospects took a bigger hit post-midseason reviews...but there's still plenty to dream on.
17. Rafael De Paula, rhp, Charleston (Yankees)
Age: 22. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 212. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2010.
Rafael De Paula
Seen on the right night, De Paula looked like he belonged in the same class of pitching prospects as Butler or Edwards. Seen on a bad night, he looked like a one-pitch pitcher who would struggle to ever make it out of Double-A.
That one pitch is pretty good, even on the bad nights, and was enough to earn him a promotion to high Class A Tampa in mid-June. De Paula has premium velocity with a 91-93 mph fastball that frequently touched 96-97. When his delivery was in sync, he also showed a potentially average breaking ball and fringy changeup. But more often than not, delivery issues would make it hard for him to develop consistent feel for his breaking ball.
“He’ll be a reliever,” one NL scout said. “You’ll have him come in and let it all hang out.”
17. Rafael De Paula, rhp, Charleston (Yankees)
Age: 22. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 212. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2010.
Rafael De Paula
Seen on the right night, De Paula looked like he belonged in the same class of pitching prospects as Butler or Edwards. Seen on a bad night, he looked like a one-pitch pitcher who would struggle to ever make it out of Double-A.
That one pitch is pretty good, even on the bad nights, and was enough to earn him a promotion to high Class A Tampa in mid-June. De Paula has premium velocity with a 91-93 mph fastball that frequently touched 96-97. When his delivery was in sync, he also showed a potentially average breaking ball and fringy changeup. But more often than not, delivery issues would make it hard for him to develop consistent feel for his breaking ball.
“He’ll be a reliever,” one NL scout said. “You’ll have him come in and let it all hang out.”
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11. Jorge Bonifacio, of, Wilmington (Royals)
Age: 20. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 192. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2009.
Bonifacio was hitting .325 and in the midst for a 15-for-31 tear when he suffered a broken hamate bone in his right hand in early May, an injury that sidelined him for the next six weeks. He returned to Wilmington in July following a rehab stint in the Arizona League and displayed a mature approach and a feel for hitting to earn a promotion to Double-A at the end of the month.
A physical player who doesn’t get cheated at the plate, Bonifacio generates plenty of bat speed while consistently squaring up line drives and showing a willingness to take pitches the opposite way. He likes to swing at first-pitch fastballs but doesn’t chase many pitches out of the strike zone. He hit just four home runs between two full-season levels and still is figuring out how to drive the ball to his pull side, something that league observers believe will come with experience and improved pitch recognition.
Bonifacio plays a solid right field, has above-average arm strength and is a plus runner. Wilmington manager Vance Wilson praised his makeup, noting that on the day he went on the disabled list he volunteered to run sprints in the outfield to stay in shape.
1. Addison Russell, ss, Stockton (Athletics)
Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-0. Wt.: 195. Drafted: HS—Pace, Fla., 2012 (1).
The Athletics challenged Russell, the 11th overall pick in 2012, with an assignment to Stockton for his first full year. The youngest player on a Cal League Opening Day roster, he took some time to adjust to the level before hitting .305/.424/.555 in the second half with the league’s fourth-highest OPS at .979.
Russell wowed Cal League observers with his all-around tools. He’s a complete package, hitting with a balanced swing that generates plenty of bat speed. The ball jumps off his bat—even on pitches he mis-hits—and he has surprising power for his size, projecting for 15-20 homers a season and possibly more. When he’s not hitting balls over the fence, Russell produces plenty of line drives that should help him rack up doubles.
“He’s in a league by himself,” a scout with a National League club said. “You’re talking about a 19-year-old kid, that he’s a game-changer. He’s a five-tool guy.”
Some scouts worried about Russell’s arm action on throws, as he had a tendency to sling the ball, but he has the tools to stick as a major league shortstop. His speed and pure arm strength both grade above-average, while his range and athleticism led to some eye-opening plays.
20. Clayton Blackburn, rhp, San Jose (Giants)
Age: 20. B-T: L-R. Ht.: 6-3. Wt.: 220. Drafted: HS—Edmond, Okla., 2011 (16).
The Giants believed in Blackburn’s advanced feel for pitching when they signed him out of the 16th round of the 2011 draft. He’s performed as advertised, putting up a 2.87 cumulative ERA through his first three pro years. Blackburn may already be close to his ceiling, but he looks like a solid bet to be a back-of-the-rotation arm.
“He knows what kind of pitcher he is and doesn’t try to be somebody he’s not,” San Jose pitching coach Mike Couchee said. “He’s got three pitches—sometimes four pitches when he’s using his slider—that he can throw for strikes in any count.”
Blackburn has an outstanding feel for reading hitters’ swings and manipulating the ball as necessary. He pitches with an 88-92 mph fastball and can reach 93 when needed. His curveball is his best secondary pitch, and he has a workable slider he can mix in. He gets good sinking action on his changeup but doesn’t have a consistent feel for it yet.
Blackburn also earns raves as a fast worker who repeats his delivery, and he’s capable of making small mechanical adjustments on his own within an at-bat if he feels something’s gotten out of line.
Age: 20. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 192. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2009.
Bonifacio was hitting .325 and in the midst for a 15-for-31 tear when he suffered a broken hamate bone in his right hand in early May, an injury that sidelined him for the next six weeks. He returned to Wilmington in July following a rehab stint in the Arizona League and displayed a mature approach and a feel for hitting to earn a promotion to Double-A at the end of the month.
A physical player who doesn’t get cheated at the plate, Bonifacio generates plenty of bat speed while consistently squaring up line drives and showing a willingness to take pitches the opposite way. He likes to swing at first-pitch fastballs but doesn’t chase many pitches out of the strike zone. He hit just four home runs between two full-season levels and still is figuring out how to drive the ball to his pull side, something that league observers believe will come with experience and improved pitch recognition.
Bonifacio plays a solid right field, has above-average arm strength and is a plus runner. Wilmington manager Vance Wilson praised his makeup, noting that on the day he went on the disabled list he volunteered to run sprints in the outfield to stay in shape.
1. Addison Russell, ss, Stockton (Athletics)
Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-0. Wt.: 195. Drafted: HS—Pace, Fla., 2012 (1).
The Athletics challenged Russell, the 11th overall pick in 2012, with an assignment to Stockton for his first full year. The youngest player on a Cal League Opening Day roster, he took some time to adjust to the level before hitting .305/.424/.555 in the second half with the league’s fourth-highest OPS at .979.
Russell wowed Cal League observers with his all-around tools. He’s a complete package, hitting with a balanced swing that generates plenty of bat speed. The ball jumps off his bat—even on pitches he mis-hits—and he has surprising power for his size, projecting for 15-20 homers a season and possibly more. When he’s not hitting balls over the fence, Russell produces plenty of line drives that should help him rack up doubles.
“He’s in a league by himself,” a scout with a National League club said. “You’re talking about a 19-year-old kid, that he’s a game-changer. He’s a five-tool guy.”
Some scouts worried about Russell’s arm action on throws, as he had a tendency to sling the ball, but he has the tools to stick as a major league shortstop. His speed and pure arm strength both grade above-average, while his range and athleticism led to some eye-opening plays.
20. Clayton Blackburn, rhp, San Jose (Giants)
Age: 20. B-T: L-R. Ht.: 6-3. Wt.: 220. Drafted: HS—Edmond, Okla., 2011 (16).
The Giants believed in Blackburn’s advanced feel for pitching when they signed him out of the 16th round of the 2011 draft. He’s performed as advertised, putting up a 2.87 cumulative ERA through his first three pro years. Blackburn may already be close to his ceiling, but he looks like a solid bet to be a back-of-the-rotation arm.
“He knows what kind of pitcher he is and doesn’t try to be somebody he’s not,” San Jose pitching coach Mike Couchee said. “He’s got three pitches—sometimes four pitches when he’s using his slider—that he can throw for strikes in any count.”
Blackburn has an outstanding feel for reading hitters’ swings and manipulating the ball as necessary. He pitches with an 88-92 mph fastball and can reach 93 when needed. His curveball is his best secondary pitch, and he has a workable slider he can mix in. He gets good sinking action on his changeup but doesn’t have a consistent feel for it yet.
Blackburn also earns raves as a fast worker who repeats his delivery, and he’s capable of making small mechanical adjustments on his own within an at-bat if he feels something’s gotten out of line.
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5. Maikel Franco, 3b, Clearwater (Phillies)
Age: 21. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 180. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2010.
Franco signed for $100,000 in 2010, or $3.05 million less than the Twins awarded Sano. Franco isn’t as physical as Sano, but his performance mirrored that of his more-hyped rival, and most scouts said Franco grades out just a half-step behind the Twins prospect.
Soft hands and a wristy swing allow Franco to take a healthy—at times vicious—swing while retaining feel for the barrel and plate coverage. He’s shortened his swing as he’s developed, making more contact without sacrificing power. He’s willing to use the whole field and can drive the ball from pole to pole.
While he’s slow and usually earns 20 or 30 run grades, Franco has good footwork and a strong, accurate arm that produces good carry on his throws. While he played some first base after his promotion to Double-A, most scouts consider him an average defender at third.
13. Alen Hanson, ss, Bradenton (Pirates)
Age: 20. B-T: B-R. Ht.: 5-11. Wt.: 160. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2009.
The difference between what Hanson was in 2013 and what he will be could be as great as any FSL player. He finished the year in the Eastern League and still is developing physically, with a small, wiry frame that packs surprising power. He has the handsy looseness scouts look for in his swing, and most of his hard contact is to the gaps.
Scouts do struggle with where Hanson profiles. He played exclusively at shortstop in the FSL and has infield actions, starting again with those hands. Scouts were more comfortable turning him in as a future second baseman, and some see him moving out of the dirt and into center field.
Hanson’s aggressiveness works against him defensively, where he can get careless, and at the plate, where he’s prone to expanding the strike zone. Hanson has plus speed—for some a tick above-average—and runs hard on the bases, but scouts said his instincts weren’t as good as a basestealer, where he was inefficient.
Age: 21. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 180. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2010.
Franco signed for $100,000 in 2010, or $3.05 million less than the Twins awarded Sano. Franco isn’t as physical as Sano, but his performance mirrored that of his more-hyped rival, and most scouts said Franco grades out just a half-step behind the Twins prospect.
Soft hands and a wristy swing allow Franco to take a healthy—at times vicious—swing while retaining feel for the barrel and plate coverage. He’s shortened his swing as he’s developed, making more contact without sacrificing power. He’s willing to use the whole field and can drive the ball from pole to pole.
While he’s slow and usually earns 20 or 30 run grades, Franco has good footwork and a strong, accurate arm that produces good carry on his throws. While he played some first base after his promotion to Double-A, most scouts consider him an average defender at third.
13. Alen Hanson, ss, Bradenton (Pirates)
Age: 20. B-T: B-R. Ht.: 5-11. Wt.: 160. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2009.
The difference between what Hanson was in 2013 and what he will be could be as great as any FSL player. He finished the year in the Eastern League and still is developing physically, with a small, wiry frame that packs surprising power. He has the handsy looseness scouts look for in his swing, and most of his hard contact is to the gaps.
Scouts do struggle with where Hanson profiles. He played exclusively at shortstop in the FSL and has infield actions, starting again with those hands. Scouts were more comfortable turning him in as a future second baseman, and some see him moving out of the dirt and into center field.
Hanson’s aggressiveness works against him defensively, where he can get careless, and at the plate, where he’s prone to expanding the strike zone. Hanson has plus speed—for some a tick above-average—and runs hard on the bases, but scouts said his instincts weren’t as good as a basestealer, where he was inefficient.
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Beat Jaypers to the first question. I have a new career highlight...
Brett (Columbus, OH): What does the career of Kevin Kiermaier look like? What did scouts say about him?
Matt Eddy: One scout said that Rays CF Kevin Kiermaier plays the game so hard that he always has the dirtiest uniform come the ninth inning. Evaluators seemed to view him as a second-division starter or a quality fourth outfielder on a championship club. In Rays terms, he's a more offensive version of Sam Fuld but with much less power than Matt Joyce. Some scouts regarded Kiermaier as a 70 defender in center, and in a recent story entitled "Getting Defensive," I found that he had more putouts per game than any other full-season center fielder at one level this season. He's a plus runner with bat speed and gap power. No red flags unless you're looking for more HR juice, and in a lesser league he's a slam-dunk top 20 prospect.
Brett (Columbus, OH): What does the career of Kevin Kiermaier look like? What did scouts say about him?
Matt Eddy: One scout said that Rays CF Kevin Kiermaier plays the game so hard that he always has the dirtiest uniform come the ninth inning. Evaluators seemed to view him as a second-division starter or a quality fourth outfielder on a championship club. In Rays terms, he's a more offensive version of Sam Fuld but with much less power than Matt Joyce. Some scouts regarded Kiermaier as a 70 defender in center, and in a recent story entitled "Getting Defensive," I found that he had more putouts per game than any other full-season center fielder at one level this season. He's a plus runner with bat speed and gap power. No red flags unless you're looking for more HR juice, and in a lesser league he's a slam-dunk top 20 prospect.
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5. Matt Wisler, rhp, San Antonio (Padres)
Age: 21. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-3. Wt.: 195. Drafted: HS—Bryan, Ohio 2011 (7).
matt-wisler-2013-mugWisler opened the season at high Class A, reached the Texas League on May 12, and then went about establishing himself as one of the elites on what was arguably the deepest pitching staff in the circuit. It was a heady effort considering Wisler only two years ago was an Ohio high schooler kicking the tires on going to Ohio State. He eventually signed for $500,000, notched 8.9 strikeouts per nine innings in his first full year in low Class A ball and fit right in in the TL a year later.
The righthander commanded his fastball to both sides of the plate, running it in at 92-94 mph and often low in the zone. His out-pitch was a low-80s slider, and he showed the makings of an effective changeup when batters were geared up for his heater. He also spins a curveball for a different look, but it’s a fourth pitch.
Wisler dominated in August, allowing one run in his first five starts before a final-game clunker. He then went toe to toe against Foltneywicz, allowing two runs, one earned, covering 6 1/3 innings in San Antonio’s playoff opener.
6. Domingo Santana, of, Corpus Christi (Astros)
Age: 21. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-5. Wt.: 230. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2009 (Phillies).
The windfall from the Hunter Pence trade with the Phillies in 2011 could be something special for the Astros, with Santana giving it a big boost. (Houston also acquired first baseman Jonathan Singleton and righthander Jarred Cosart in the deal.) He ranked third in the league in homers (behind two veterans) and in slugging (behind a pair of batters repeating the league).
If a pitch ventures close to the strike zone, Santana probably is going to go into attack mode, not uncommon for young power hitters. But when he made contact, it was with authority. The ball jumped off his bat, and Santana showed better power to the opposite field, in his case right-center. Defensively, he showed a plus arm, solid range and had decent-enough speed. His impact could be muted by an excessive strikeout rate, as league pitchers had success busting the 6-foot-5 Santana on the inside corner. Nevertheless, he’s been a bargain since signing for $330,000, and the Astros should reap the benefit of the Phillies’ investment.
Age: 21. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-3. Wt.: 195. Drafted: HS—Bryan, Ohio 2011 (7).
matt-wisler-2013-mugWisler opened the season at high Class A, reached the Texas League on May 12, and then went about establishing himself as one of the elites on what was arguably the deepest pitching staff in the circuit. It was a heady effort considering Wisler only two years ago was an Ohio high schooler kicking the tires on going to Ohio State. He eventually signed for $500,000, notched 8.9 strikeouts per nine innings in his first full year in low Class A ball and fit right in in the TL a year later.
The righthander commanded his fastball to both sides of the plate, running it in at 92-94 mph and often low in the zone. His out-pitch was a low-80s slider, and he showed the makings of an effective changeup when batters were geared up for his heater. He also spins a curveball for a different look, but it’s a fourth pitch.
Wisler dominated in August, allowing one run in his first five starts before a final-game clunker. He then went toe to toe against Foltneywicz, allowing two runs, one earned, covering 6 1/3 innings in San Antonio’s playoff opener.
6. Domingo Santana, of, Corpus Christi (Astros)
Age: 21. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-5. Wt.: 230. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2009 (Phillies).
The windfall from the Hunter Pence trade with the Phillies in 2011 could be something special for the Astros, with Santana giving it a big boost. (Houston also acquired first baseman Jonathan Singleton and righthander Jarred Cosart in the deal.) He ranked third in the league in homers (behind two veterans) and in slugging (behind a pair of batters repeating the league).
If a pitch ventures close to the strike zone, Santana probably is going to go into attack mode, not uncommon for young power hitters. But when he made contact, it was with authority. The ball jumped off his bat, and Santana showed better power to the opposite field, in his case right-center. Defensively, he showed a plus arm, solid range and had decent-enough speed. His impact could be muted by an excessive strikeout rate, as league pitchers had success busting the 6-foot-5 Santana on the inside corner. Nevertheless, he’s been a bargain since signing for $330,000, and the Astros should reap the benefit of the Phillies’ investment.
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4. Maikel Franco, 3b, Reading (Phillies)
Age: 20. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 180. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2010.
Maikel Franco
Even while he was struggling in the first half of 2012, the impact potential of Franco’s bat was clearly evident. He hit well in the final two months of 2012 and continued to rake in 2013, posting nearly the same numbers in the EL as he did in the Florida State League, where he crushed 16 homers in 65 games prior to a promotion.
Franco has improved his plate discipline and made greater contact by using the whole field. Tremendous bat speed plus a swing that stays in the hitting zone for a long time allowed him to club 31 homers across two levels this season. One EL skipper, however, noted that Franco was susceptible to breaking balls down and away, and that he can let his swing get out of control sometimes.
He’s still a bit of work in progress at third base, but every evaluator surveyed for this list believed he had the skills to stay at the hot corner, despite 20 speed on the 20-80 scouting scale and middling range. He has a plus arm and good hands, but he’s already a big boy and any more size would hinder his range.
Age: 20. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 180. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2010.
Maikel Franco
Even while he was struggling in the first half of 2012, the impact potential of Franco’s bat was clearly evident. He hit well in the final two months of 2012 and continued to rake in 2013, posting nearly the same numbers in the EL as he did in the Florida State League, where he crushed 16 homers in 65 games prior to a promotion.
Franco has improved his plate discipline and made greater contact by using the whole field. Tremendous bat speed plus a swing that stays in the hitting zone for a long time allowed him to club 31 homers across two levels this season. One EL skipper, however, noted that Franco was susceptible to breaking balls down and away, and that he can let his swing get out of control sometimes.
He’s still a bit of work in progress at third base, but every evaluator surveyed for this list believed he had the skills to stay at the hot corner, despite 20 speed on the 20-80 scouting scale and middling range. He has a plus arm and good hands, but he’s already a big boy and any more size would hinder his range.
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So...does this mean you like him?
Addison Russell, SS, Oakland: I saw Russell draw a nine-pitch walk and a six-pitch walk, smoke a double over the rightfielder's head on a right-hander's fastball, hit a hard liner to right off a 99 mph fastball from Alex Meyer, and play some great defense, including one play to his right on a ball half of major-league shortstops wouldn't have gotten, after which he uncorked a perfect throw to nail the runner. Russell was the second-youngest player on any AFL Opening Day Roster, after Almora, but he didn't look his age in his approach or in his actions, and he still gives every indication that he'll be a shortstop in the long run.
Addison Russell, SS, Oakland: I saw Russell draw a nine-pitch walk and a six-pitch walk, smoke a double over the rightfielder's head on a right-hander's fastball, hit a hard liner to right off a 99 mph fastball from Alex Meyer, and play some great defense, including one play to his right on a ball half of major-league shortstops wouldn't have gotten, after which he uncorked a perfect throw to nail the runner. Russell was the second-youngest player on any AFL Opening Day Roster, after Almora, but he didn't look his age in his approach or in his actions, and he still gives every indication that he'll be a shortstop in the long run.
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#TeamProfessorParks
bzalaski (Cbus): Despite a strong close to the season, and an overall strong season in a hitter's league, Clayton Blackburn recently got a tough ranking in another publication for the Cal League. Is some of the shine off his prospect status...or is there a difference of opinion on him?
Jason Parks: He had a good season. The ceiling isn't crazy, but he's still a very good prospect that was pitching in a very difficult league. I'm not going to blast other publications because I disagree with their rankings or their process. But I would have ranked him much higher.
bzalaski (Cbus): Despite a strong close to the season, and an overall strong season in a hitter's league, Clayton Blackburn recently got a tough ranking in another publication for the Cal League. Is some of the shine off his prospect status...or is there a difference of opinion on him?
Jason Parks: He had a good season. The ceiling isn't crazy, but he's still a very good prospect that was pitching in a very difficult league. I'm not going to blast other publications because I disagree with their rankings or their process. But I would have ranked him much higher.
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Pitcher of the Day: Matt Purke, LHP, Nationals (Mesa Solar Sox): 4 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 7 K. Purke battled injury, had an inconsistent season and struggled after a promotion to High-A ball, but he appears to be coming on strong in the AFL. After striking out just six batters per nine innings for Potomac, Purke is once again missing bats in the AFL. He’s now given up just an unearned run in two starts.
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Hitter of the Day: Addison Russell, SS, Athletics (Mesa Solar Sox): 2-5, R, 2B, HR. It would be understandable if Russell was wearing down playing extended games at the end of his first full season. We saw the same thing happen with Mike Trout in his time in the AFL, and it didn’t exactly slow him down. Russell was hitting just .217 before Monday, but he displayed why he is one of the best prospects in baseball with a multi-extra-base hit game.
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Pitcher of the Day: Matt Purke, LHP, Nationals (Mesa Solar Sox): 5 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 3 K. Purke has been fantastic this fall and has now made three starts without allowing an earned run. More importantly, he’s fanned a batter per inning, perhaps signaling a return of some of the impact stuff that he had in college.
Aaron Sanchez, RHP, Blue Jays (Salt River Rafters): 4 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 4 K. Sanchez has perhaps as much potential as any pitching prospect in the game. He’s still learning how to put it all together, but when it's all there, he dominates like this.
Aaron Sanchez, RHP, Blue Jays (Salt River Rafters): 4 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 4 K. Sanchez has perhaps as much potential as any pitching prospect in the game. He’s still learning how to put it all together, but when it's all there, he dominates like this.
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Drew Hutchison, RHP, Blue Jays (Salt River Rafters): 4 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 0 BB, 4 K. Hutchison continues to dominate minor league competition on his way back from injury, but that’s exactly what he’s supposed to do. The most important thing is he’s throwing strikes and missing bats, which is what you want to see from any rehabbing pitcher.
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Pitcher of the Day: Aaron Sanchez, RHP, Blue Jays (Salt River Rafters): 4 1/3 IP, H, 0 R, 3 BB, 4 K. Sanchez has dynamic stuff, but outings like these have become all too common. He stayed out of trouble on Monday because he doesn’t give up hard contact and misses enough bats, but he was unable to finish the fifth inning. He will be able to get away with poor control more so than most pitchers because his fastball sits in the mid-90s and touches 97 and because he pairs it with a plus breaking ball, but his ceiling will be limited if he doesn’t get it everything under control.
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BA - Braves
3. J.R. Graham, rhp
Born: Jan. 14, 1990. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-0.
Wt.: 185. Drafted.: Santa Clara, 2011 (4th round). Signed by: Tom Davis.
Background: A two-way player in college, Graham had emerged as a fast-track pitcher as a pro before a strained shoulder suffered in May limited him to eight games with Double-A Mississippi in 2013. Since focusing on pitching full-time, he has led the Appalachian League with a 1.72 ERA in 2011 and posted a combined 12-2, 2.80 season in 2012 between high Class A Lynchburg and Mississippi.
Scouting Report: Graham’s success stems from his ability to work down in the zone and force batters to hit groundballs. His four-seam fastball sits in the mid-90s and has been clocked as high as 97 mph, while his two-seamer is a heavy pitch with great sinking action. He employs the same motion to throw his 82-85 mph slider, thereby keeping hitters off-balance. His changeup is also an effective offering, giving him four above-average pitches. Graham repeats his clean delivery well and has the best command in the organization.
The Future: Graham’s shoulder injury, which kept him from throwing during instructional league, and his smaller frame raise questions about his durability. Had he not been sidetracked in 2013, then he probably would have ranked as the system’s top prospect. If healthy, Graham should return to Mississippi to open the 2014 to see if he can get back on track as a future rotation piece.
3. J.R. Graham, rhp
Born: Jan. 14, 1990. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-0.
Wt.: 185. Drafted.: Santa Clara, 2011 (4th round). Signed by: Tom Davis.
Background: A two-way player in college, Graham had emerged as a fast-track pitcher as a pro before a strained shoulder suffered in May limited him to eight games with Double-A Mississippi in 2013. Since focusing on pitching full-time, he has led the Appalachian League with a 1.72 ERA in 2011 and posted a combined 12-2, 2.80 season in 2012 between high Class A Lynchburg and Mississippi.
Scouting Report: Graham’s success stems from his ability to work down in the zone and force batters to hit groundballs. His four-seam fastball sits in the mid-90s and has been clocked as high as 97 mph, while his two-seamer is a heavy pitch with great sinking action. He employs the same motion to throw his 82-85 mph slider, thereby keeping hitters off-balance. His changeup is also an effective offering, giving him four above-average pitches. Graham repeats his clean delivery well and has the best command in the organization.
The Future: Graham’s shoulder injury, which kept him from throwing during instructional league, and his smaller frame raise questions about his durability. Had he not been sidetracked in 2013, then he probably would have ranked as the system’s top prospect. If healthy, Graham should return to Mississippi to open the 2014 to see if he can get back on track as a future rotation piece.
Last edited by Yankees on Mon Nov 04, 2013 10:48 am, edited 1 time in total.
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Stefen Romero, 2B, Mariners (Peoria Javelinas): 2-5, R, 2B, HR, K. Romero is a borderline prospect who can do a few things well but probably not enough to play every day. He has some pop for the second base position, but he is extremely aggressive at the plate, which leads to low on-base percentages and lots of outs. He doesn’t have any standout tools, but his plus makeup should help him carve out a utility role in the majors.
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Think this is an absolutely shite list...but it's something to quench our thirsts.
MLB Top 100 Prospects - http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/prospects/watch/y2013/
18 - Addison Russell
20 - Aaron Sanchez
30 - Max Fried
39 - Alen Hanson
54 - David Dahl
72 - Maikel Franco
93 - Clayton Blackburn
98 - Rafael De Paula
MLB Top 100 Prospects - http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/prospects/watch/y2013/
18 - Addison Russell
20 - Aaron Sanchez
30 - Max Fried
39 - Alen Hanson
54 - David Dahl
72 - Maikel Franco
93 - Clayton Blackburn
98 - Rafael De Paula
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2. Maikel Franco, 3b, Phillies: One of the breakout players of the 2013 season, Franco is spending his winter as the everyday third baseman for the Gigantes in the Dominican League. With Cody Asche ahead of him in the system, Franco has a short-term obstacle that will probably keep him in Triple-A to start the season, but Franco’s offensive upside gives him the higher ceiling and should ultimately allow him to take over the hot corner in Philadelphia.
7. Arismendy Alcantara, ss/2b, Cubs: Alcantara has put together two straight seasons with encouraging production to go along with a pair of plus tools in his speed and arm, though he’s still learning to tone down his game at the plate and in the field. Teammates with Profar for Licey, Alcantara has been playing second base, which could be his ticket to Chicago, with Starlin Castro at shortstop, Javier Baez ahead of him as a prospect and Kris Bryant (for now) at third base.
7. Arismendy Alcantara, ss/2b, Cubs: Alcantara has put together two straight seasons with encouraging production to go along with a pair of plus tools in his speed and arm, though he’s still learning to tone down his game at the plate and in the field. Teammates with Profar for Licey, Alcantara has been playing second base, which could be his ticket to Chicago, with Starlin Castro at shortstop, Javier Baez ahead of him as a prospect and Kris Bryant (for now) at third base.
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Astros BP Rankings
6. Vincent Velasquez
Position: RHP
2013 Stats: 3.19 ERA (110 IP, 90 H, 123 K, 33 BB) at Low-A Quad Cities, 6.14 ERA (14.2 IP, 14 H, 19 K, 8 BB) at High-A Lancaster
The Tools: 6+ FB; 6+ CH; 5 potential CB
What Happened in 2013: Making his full-season debut, Velasquez erased all doubts about his post-Tommy John arm, pitching his way to the California League on the back of the potent fastball/changeup combo.
Strengths: Really crisp fastball; easy plus velocity in the 92-95 range; routinely works higher; holds velocity; clean arm action; changeup is a plus pitch at present; some sources project it higher; excellent arm-speed deception; major-league-quality pitch; good overall feel for craft; good command profile.
Weaknesses: Breaking ball not very impressive; several reports had it below average at present and didn’t project it over fringe-average; success in lower minors on the back of fastball location and velocity in combination with big boy changeup; needs full-grade breaking ball improvement.
Overall Future Potential: 6; no. 2/3 starter
Realistic Role: 5; no. 4 starter
Risk Factor/Injury History: Moderate; Tommy John surgery in September 2010
The Year Ahead: The development of the breaking ball is key for Velasquez’s long-term success, although his fastball/changeup combo is strong enough to carry him to the majors, even with a fringe curveball. Depending on the source, projections on the present offering range from below average to average, with one source suggesting it could develop into a plus pitch next season. If that’s the case, Velasquez’s placement on this list could look foolish at this time next year.
Major league ETA: 2015
8. Domingo Santana
Position: RF
2013 Stats: .252/.345/.498 at Double-A Corpus Christi (112 games)
The Tools: 6+ power potential; 6+ arm
What Happened in 2013: A 20-year-old for most of the season, Santana held his own at the Double-A level, hitting 50 extra-base hits in 112 games, including 25 bombs.
Strengths: Big boy raw power; can launch tape-measure shots; leveraged swing that can produce very loud contact, especially when he can get extended on balls out over the plate; can handle right field; easy plus arm; good athlete for his size.
Weaknesses: Hit tool is below average; lacks much projection; tremendous strength, but swing can get heavy and pitchers can work him inside; lots of swing-and-miss; hit tool could limit power output.
Overall Future Potential: 6; first-division player
Realistic Role: Low 5; second-division player
Risk Factor/Injury History: Moderate risk; power is legit
The Year Ahead: Santana has a lot of supporters in the scouting community, and those who really believe in him see a Nelson Cruz type; big raw, suspect hit tool, awkward at times in his routes but a good athlete for the size, with a very good arm. Santana has a tendency to expand his zone and help pitchers out in counts, so he will need to continue to refine and learn to stay back on off-speed offerings if he wants to let the full potential of his power out. He could reach the majors in 2014, although a healthy dose of Triple-A off-speed stuff could benefit the 21-year-old’s development at the plate.
Major league ETA: Late 2014
Factors on the Farm (Prospects likely to contribute in the majors in 2014)
1. RHP Nick Tropeano: With a solid fastball/changeup combo, the former fifth-round pick can miss bats and force weak contact. He’s a backend type at the highest level, but he has the delivery, the body, and the arsenal to contribute to a major-league rotation in 2014.
6. Vincent Velasquez
Position: RHP
2013 Stats: 3.19 ERA (110 IP, 90 H, 123 K, 33 BB) at Low-A Quad Cities, 6.14 ERA (14.2 IP, 14 H, 19 K, 8 BB) at High-A Lancaster
The Tools: 6+ FB; 6+ CH; 5 potential CB
What Happened in 2013: Making his full-season debut, Velasquez erased all doubts about his post-Tommy John arm, pitching his way to the California League on the back of the potent fastball/changeup combo.
Strengths: Really crisp fastball; easy plus velocity in the 92-95 range; routinely works higher; holds velocity; clean arm action; changeup is a plus pitch at present; some sources project it higher; excellent arm-speed deception; major-league-quality pitch; good overall feel for craft; good command profile.
Weaknesses: Breaking ball not very impressive; several reports had it below average at present and didn’t project it over fringe-average; success in lower minors on the back of fastball location and velocity in combination with big boy changeup; needs full-grade breaking ball improvement.
Overall Future Potential: 6; no. 2/3 starter
Realistic Role: 5; no. 4 starter
Risk Factor/Injury History: Moderate; Tommy John surgery in September 2010
The Year Ahead: The development of the breaking ball is key for Velasquez’s long-term success, although his fastball/changeup combo is strong enough to carry him to the majors, even with a fringe curveball. Depending on the source, projections on the present offering range from below average to average, with one source suggesting it could develop into a plus pitch next season. If that’s the case, Velasquez’s placement on this list could look foolish at this time next year.
Major league ETA: 2015
8. Domingo Santana
Position: RF
2013 Stats: .252/.345/.498 at Double-A Corpus Christi (112 games)
The Tools: 6+ power potential; 6+ arm
What Happened in 2013: A 20-year-old for most of the season, Santana held his own at the Double-A level, hitting 50 extra-base hits in 112 games, including 25 bombs.
Strengths: Big boy raw power; can launch tape-measure shots; leveraged swing that can produce very loud contact, especially when he can get extended on balls out over the plate; can handle right field; easy plus arm; good athlete for his size.
Weaknesses: Hit tool is below average; lacks much projection; tremendous strength, but swing can get heavy and pitchers can work him inside; lots of swing-and-miss; hit tool could limit power output.
Overall Future Potential: 6; first-division player
Realistic Role: Low 5; second-division player
Risk Factor/Injury History: Moderate risk; power is legit
The Year Ahead: Santana has a lot of supporters in the scouting community, and those who really believe in him see a Nelson Cruz type; big raw, suspect hit tool, awkward at times in his routes but a good athlete for the size, with a very good arm. Santana has a tendency to expand his zone and help pitchers out in counts, so he will need to continue to refine and learn to stay back on off-speed offerings if he wants to let the full potential of his power out. He could reach the majors in 2014, although a healthy dose of Triple-A off-speed stuff could benefit the 21-year-old’s development at the plate.
Major league ETA: Late 2014
Factors on the Farm (Prospects likely to contribute in the majors in 2014)
1. RHP Nick Tropeano: With a solid fastball/changeup combo, the former fifth-round pick can miss bats and force weak contact. He’s a backend type at the highest level, but he has the delivery, the body, and the arsenal to contribute to a major-league rotation in 2014.
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Phillies BA Rankings
1. Maikel Franco, 3B
Born: Aug 26, 1992.
B-T: R-R.
Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 180.
Signed: Dominican Republic, 2010.
Signed by: Koby Perez.
Background: Signed for just $100,000 out of the Dominican Republic, Franco stood out as an amateur for his power bat, throwing arm and 7.7-second time in the 60-yard dash. That lack of speed had the Phillies consider a move to catcher, but that’s no longer the case. Franco showed enough offensive polish to jump to the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League as a 17-year-old and reached low Class A Lakewood in late 2011 at age 18. Back at Lakewood in 2012, he dealt with a serious case of over-aggression, leading to a .207/.269/.338 line over his first 64 games in full-season ball. Once the weather in the Northeast warmed up, however, so did Franco (.346/.395/.530), and he hasn’t stopped hitting. Franco followed up with a 31-homer season in 2013, earning himself a spot on the Florida State League all-star team in the first half, as well as his second Futures Game nod and a promotion to Double-A. He was the organization’s player of the year after leading it in batting (.320), homers (31) and RBIs (103).
Scouting Report: Franco offers premium bat speed that produces 70 power on the 20-80 scale. He’s still too aggressive at times, but he has significantly cut down on his strikeouts and increased his walk rate. He doesn’t walk much but makes such hard, consistent contact that he rarely goes into slumps. His swing gets out of control at times, and he has shown a vulnerability to breaking pitches down and in. Even with those dings and despite his top-shelf power, he struck out just 70 times in 581 plate appearances in 2013, or just 12 percent of the time. At third base, Franco showed good hands and actions, along with an above-average arm while making 15 errors. He moves left to right well and has the footwork to stick at third despite his poor running speed. The Phillies see him as a true middle-of-the-order bat who can hit for average and produce something on the order of 30 homers annually. They moved Franco to first base for the last week or so of the season, a move designed to make him more comfortable with a new position rather than an abandonment of the hot corner.
The Future: Rookie third baseman Cody Asche jumped to Philadelphia in August, and while his promotion was a factor in Franco’s late stint at first base, Franco’s ceiling is higher. His time at first provides Ryan Howard insurance for Philly, which intends to send Franco to Triple-A Lehigh Valley to open the 2014 season. He could challenge for a spot at Citizens Bank Park sometime toward the end of the season. Once he gets there, Philadelphia should have a power righthanded bat to complement Howard, Chase Utley and Domonic Brown in the middle of the lineup.
7. Ethan Martin, rhp
Born: June 6, 1989.
B-T: R-R.
Ht.: 6-2.
Wt.: 195.
Drafted: : HS—Toccoa, Ga., 2008 (1st round).
Signed by: Lon Joyce (Dodgers).
Background: BA’s 2008 High School Player of the Year has endured a lot in his pro career, struggling significantly with control issues early in his career with the Dodgers. The Phillies acquired him for Shane Victorino in 2012, and Martin made his big league debut in 2013. He was hammered as a starter before moving to the bullpen in September.
Scouting Report: Armed with a live arm and clean delivery, Martin has a four-pitch repertoire that includes a fastball that sits at 92-93 mph and touches 95 as a starter. His fastball plays up to 97 in shorter stints. He throws both a downer curveball that he struggles to command consistently, as well as a slider that flashes plus and a straight changeup. While his curve tends to be in the low 70s, his slider at times features cutter action and reaches 87 mph. Martin has below-average command that regressed in 2013, and he has averaged 5.5 walks per nine innings as a professional.
The Future: With the big league rotation in flux, particularly from the right side, Martin has a great chance to start in Philadelphia. His main challenge will be throwing strikes consistently. If he succeeds, Martin could find himself in the back end of the rotation. If not, he’ll still probably be a weapon out of the bullpen.
1. Maikel Franco, 3B
Born: Aug 26, 1992.
B-T: R-R.
Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 180.
Signed: Dominican Republic, 2010.
Signed by: Koby Perez.
Background: Signed for just $100,000 out of the Dominican Republic, Franco stood out as an amateur for his power bat, throwing arm and 7.7-second time in the 60-yard dash. That lack of speed had the Phillies consider a move to catcher, but that’s no longer the case. Franco showed enough offensive polish to jump to the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League as a 17-year-old and reached low Class A Lakewood in late 2011 at age 18. Back at Lakewood in 2012, he dealt with a serious case of over-aggression, leading to a .207/.269/.338 line over his first 64 games in full-season ball. Once the weather in the Northeast warmed up, however, so did Franco (.346/.395/.530), and he hasn’t stopped hitting. Franco followed up with a 31-homer season in 2013, earning himself a spot on the Florida State League all-star team in the first half, as well as his second Futures Game nod and a promotion to Double-A. He was the organization’s player of the year after leading it in batting (.320), homers (31) and RBIs (103).
Scouting Report: Franco offers premium bat speed that produces 70 power on the 20-80 scale. He’s still too aggressive at times, but he has significantly cut down on his strikeouts and increased his walk rate. He doesn’t walk much but makes such hard, consistent contact that he rarely goes into slumps. His swing gets out of control at times, and he has shown a vulnerability to breaking pitches down and in. Even with those dings and despite his top-shelf power, he struck out just 70 times in 581 plate appearances in 2013, or just 12 percent of the time. At third base, Franco showed good hands and actions, along with an above-average arm while making 15 errors. He moves left to right well and has the footwork to stick at third despite his poor running speed. The Phillies see him as a true middle-of-the-order bat who can hit for average and produce something on the order of 30 homers annually. They moved Franco to first base for the last week or so of the season, a move designed to make him more comfortable with a new position rather than an abandonment of the hot corner.
The Future: Rookie third baseman Cody Asche jumped to Philadelphia in August, and while his promotion was a factor in Franco’s late stint at first base, Franco’s ceiling is higher. His time at first provides Ryan Howard insurance for Philly, which intends to send Franco to Triple-A Lehigh Valley to open the 2014 season. He could challenge for a spot at Citizens Bank Park sometime toward the end of the season. Once he gets there, Philadelphia should have a power righthanded bat to complement Howard, Chase Utley and Domonic Brown in the middle of the lineup.
7. Ethan Martin, rhp
Born: June 6, 1989.
B-T: R-R.
Ht.: 6-2.
Wt.: 195.
Drafted: : HS—Toccoa, Ga., 2008 (1st round).
Signed by: Lon Joyce (Dodgers).
Background: BA’s 2008 High School Player of the Year has endured a lot in his pro career, struggling significantly with control issues early in his career with the Dodgers. The Phillies acquired him for Shane Victorino in 2012, and Martin made his big league debut in 2013. He was hammered as a starter before moving to the bullpen in September.
Scouting Report: Armed with a live arm and clean delivery, Martin has a four-pitch repertoire that includes a fastball that sits at 92-93 mph and touches 95 as a starter. His fastball plays up to 97 in shorter stints. He throws both a downer curveball that he struggles to command consistently, as well as a slider that flashes plus and a straight changeup. While his curve tends to be in the low 70s, his slider at times features cutter action and reaches 87 mph. Martin has below-average command that regressed in 2013, and he has averaged 5.5 walks per nine innings as a professional.
The Future: With the big league rotation in flux, particularly from the right side, Martin has a great chance to start in Philadelphia. His main challenge will be throwing strikes consistently. If he succeeds, Martin could find himself in the back end of the rotation. If not, he’ll still probably be a weapon out of the bullpen.
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Well I wasn't feeling too great this AM...but this absolutely made my morning...
Proper Name: Matthew Purke
Born: July, 17 1990
Ht.: 6-4. Wt.: 205
Bats: L. Throws: L
Overview: “He’s got the stuff to be a mid-rotation MLB starter. His walk-to-strikeout numbers are good in his two minor league seasons. If there are concerns about him, or reasons why he wouldn’t be considered a top-of-the-rotation guy just quite yet, it would be (that) he hasn’t missed a lot of bats early on. Guys that don’t walk a lot of hitters are typically going to give up more hits than guys who do, but he still has to get a few more swings-and-misses for me to be a front-line starter. … On the path to be in Double-A or Triple-A next summer and competing for a big league spot in 2015.”
Fastball
Future Grade: 60
“He sat at 92-93 MPH (when I saw him) for five innings. I think he has the ability and delivery to repeat that. His fastball command was solid … he worked both sides of the plate. He did show some average arm-side run. It looked like his ball ran away better when he threw to the arm side. Not as much run and deception as you might think from a left-hander but did show some signs of fastball life.”
Breaking Ball
Future Grade: 50
“His breaking ball is more of a ‘slurve.’ It had some 11 to 5 break and was 78-80 mph in velocity. It had some depth even from a little bit of a lower arm slot. It looked like he had confidence in it and average command of it, but it’s really his third pitch. It was effective against lefthanded hitters.”
Changeup
Future Grade: 60
“This is where the similarity with Hamels comes into play. He’s got a plus changeup, a swing-and-miss changeup. His arm speed and deception with this pitch are good. He has a good feel for the speed difference between his change and fastball. Hitters at all levels with have trouble with this pitch. He has the confidence and command to throw it on any count.”
Makeup/Intangibles
Future Grade: 55
“Scouts know that the difference-maker in players getting to the major leagues versus a career minor-leaguer usually lies in the makeup. In talking with former coaches, he has the makeup to pitch in the major leagues. Reports are that he’s smart, humble, confident … a team player with a great work ethic, someone who takes the ball every time out and is a competitor. It says something about his makeup to be a first-rounder out of high school, risk going to school, and go out and perform with high expectations in college. He took a hit financially by not signing out of high school, but still went out performed well. The Nationals might have a steal in the third round with this guy.”
Overall
“You see Purke out there and Cole Hamels comes to mind. Not that he will necessarily be the same impact pitcher that Hamels is … just the frame, the similarity in pitching styles, some of the stuff he has. He’s got a smooth, effortless delivery from a three-quarters slot. His change will be his out pitch. The breaking ball is slurvy and sometimes effective but still his third-best pitch. He had good command of all three pitches and looks like he’s confident to throw any pitch in any count.”
Proper Name: Matthew Purke
Born: July, 17 1990
Ht.: 6-4. Wt.: 205
Bats: L. Throws: L
Overview: “He’s got the stuff to be a mid-rotation MLB starter. His walk-to-strikeout numbers are good in his two minor league seasons. If there are concerns about him, or reasons why he wouldn’t be considered a top-of-the-rotation guy just quite yet, it would be (that) he hasn’t missed a lot of bats early on. Guys that don’t walk a lot of hitters are typically going to give up more hits than guys who do, but he still has to get a few more swings-and-misses for me to be a front-line starter. … On the path to be in Double-A or Triple-A next summer and competing for a big league spot in 2015.”
Fastball
Future Grade: 60
“He sat at 92-93 MPH (when I saw him) for five innings. I think he has the ability and delivery to repeat that. His fastball command was solid … he worked both sides of the plate. He did show some average arm-side run. It looked like his ball ran away better when he threw to the arm side. Not as much run and deception as you might think from a left-hander but did show some signs of fastball life.”
Breaking Ball
Future Grade: 50
“His breaking ball is more of a ‘slurve.’ It had some 11 to 5 break and was 78-80 mph in velocity. It had some depth even from a little bit of a lower arm slot. It looked like he had confidence in it and average command of it, but it’s really his third pitch. It was effective against lefthanded hitters.”
Changeup
Future Grade: 60
“This is where the similarity with Hamels comes into play. He’s got a plus changeup, a swing-and-miss changeup. His arm speed and deception with this pitch are good. He has a good feel for the speed difference between his change and fastball. Hitters at all levels with have trouble with this pitch. He has the confidence and command to throw it on any count.”
Makeup/Intangibles
Future Grade: 55
“Scouts know that the difference-maker in players getting to the major leagues versus a career minor-leaguer usually lies in the makeup. In talking with former coaches, he has the makeup to pitch in the major leagues. Reports are that he’s smart, humble, confident … a team player with a great work ethic, someone who takes the ball every time out and is a competitor. It says something about his makeup to be a first-rounder out of high school, risk going to school, and go out and perform with high expectations in college. He took a hit financially by not signing out of high school, but still went out performed well. The Nationals might have a steal in the third round with this guy.”
Overall
“You see Purke out there and Cole Hamels comes to mind. Not that he will necessarily be the same impact pitcher that Hamels is … just the frame, the similarity in pitching styles, some of the stuff he has. He’s got a smooth, effortless delivery from a three-quarters slot. His change will be his out pitch. The breaking ball is slurvy and sometimes effective but still his third-best pitch. He had good command of all three pitches and looks like he’s confident to throw any pitch in any count.”
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Another not bad for missing the whole season...
Nats BA Rankings
4. Matt Skole, 1b/3b
Background: Skole won South Atlantic League MVP honors and was named Washington’s minor league hitter of the year in 2012. His 2013 season was cut short in his second game when he collided with a runner while playing first base, causing a microfracture in his wrist and severing the ulnar collateral ligament in his non-throwing elbow. He had Tommy John surgery and wrist surgery but returned to action in the Arizona Fall League, where he homered twice in his first four games.
Scouting Report: Skole’s calling card is his plus lefthanded power, primarily to the pull side. He has a flicker with his bat head right before letting loose on the baseball, and he generates serious bat speed. The Nationals helped him get more out of his huge frame by minimizing his leg kick, solidifying his base and improving his balance. He showed an improved ability to stay back and drive breaking pitches the other way in his last healthy season. Skole also has an advanced feel for the strike zone, giving him a chance to be an average or slightly better hitter. He has good hands at either infield corner and a solid arm, but he lacks the range to displace Ryan Zimmerman or Anthony Rendon at the hot corner, so he figures to focus on first base going forward.
The Future: Skole will return to Harrisburg to start 2014. He is the best power prospect in the system and could be the organization’s first baseman of the future.
Nats BA Rankings
4. Matt Skole, 1b/3b
Background: Skole won South Atlantic League MVP honors and was named Washington’s minor league hitter of the year in 2012. His 2013 season was cut short in his second game when he collided with a runner while playing first base, causing a microfracture in his wrist and severing the ulnar collateral ligament in his non-throwing elbow. He had Tommy John surgery and wrist surgery but returned to action in the Arizona Fall League, where he homered twice in his first four games.
Scouting Report: Skole’s calling card is his plus lefthanded power, primarily to the pull side. He has a flicker with his bat head right before letting loose on the baseball, and he generates serious bat speed. The Nationals helped him get more out of his huge frame by minimizing his leg kick, solidifying his base and improving his balance. He showed an improved ability to stay back and drive breaking pitches the other way in his last healthy season. Skole also has an advanced feel for the strike zone, giving him a chance to be an average or slightly better hitter. He has good hands at either infield corner and a solid arm, but he lacks the range to displace Ryan Zimmerman or Anthony Rendon at the hot corner, so he figures to focus on first base going forward.
The Future: Skole will return to Harrisburg to start 2014. He is the best power prospect in the system and could be the organization’s first baseman of the future.
