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2013 Minor League Thread

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With BB America releasing their top 100 today, figured it was time to start this:

2013 Top 100 Prospects List

Posted Feb. 19, 2013 12:59 pm by J.J. Cooper
Filed under: Prospect Rankings

The 2013 Top 100 Prospects list, as determined by Baseball America's editors.

1. Jurickson Profar, ss/2b, TEX
2. Dylan Bundy, rhp, BAL
3. Oscar Taveras, of, STL
4. Wil Myers, of/3b, TB
5. Jose Fernandez, rhp, FLA
6. Shelby Miller, rhp, STL
7. Gerrit Cole, rhp, PIT
8. Xander Bogaerts, ss, BOS
9. Miguel Sano, 3b, MIN
10. Byron Buxton, of, MIN
11. Zack Wheeler, rhp, NYM
12. Tyler Skaggs, lhp, ARI
13. Carlos Correa, ss, HOU
14. Trevor Bauer, rhp, CLE
15. Christian Yelich, of, FLA
16. Javier Baez, ss, CHC
17. Mike Zunino, c, SEA
18. Taijuan Walker, rhp, SEA
19. Jameson Taillon, rhp, PIT
20. Billy Hamilton, of/ss, CIN
21. Nick Castellanos, of/3b, DET
22. Mike Olt, 3b/1b, TEX
23. Travis d'Arnaud, c, NYM
24. Kyle Zimmer, rhp, KC
25. Archie Bradley, rhp, ARI
26. Kevin Gausman, rhp, BAL
27. Jonathan Singleton, 1b/of, HOU
28. Francisco Lindor, ss, CLE
29. Danny Hultzen, lhp, SEA
30. Anthony Rendon, 3b, WAS
31. Jackie Bradley, of, BOS
32. Mason Williams, of, NYY
33. Albert Almora, of, CHC
34. Jorge Soler, of, CHC
35. Bubba Starling, of, KC
36. Chris Archer, rhp, TB
37. George Springer, of, HOU
38. Carlos Martinez, rhp, STL
39. Trevor Rosenthal, rhp, STL
40. Matt Barnes, rhp, BOS
41. Oswaldo Arcia, of, MIN
42. Hyun-Jin Ryu, lhp, LAD
43. Andrew Heaney, lhp, FLA
44. Julio Teheran, rhp, ATL
45. Casey Kelly, rhp, SD
46. Max Fried, lhp, SD
47. Yasiel Puig, of, LAD
48. Addison Russell, ss, OAK
49. Allen Webster, rhp, BOS
50. Lance McCullers, rhp, HOU
51. Gregory Polanco, of, PIT
52. Nolan Arenado, 3b, COL
53. David Dahl, of, COL
54. Noah Syndergaard, rhp, NYM
55. Courtney Hawkins, of, CWS
56. Robert Stephenson, rhp, CIN
57. Gary Sanchez, c, NYY
58. Austin Hedges, c, SD
59. Alex Meyer, rhp, MIN
60. Kaleb Cowart, 3b, LAA
61. Alen Hanson, ss, PIT
62. Taylor Guerrieri, rhp, TB
63. Slade Heathcott, of, NYY
64. Jake Marisnick, of, FLA
65. Aaron Sanchez, rhp, TOR
66. Kyle Crick, rhp, SF
67. Lucas Giolito, rhp, WAS
68. Kyle Gibson, rhp, MIN
69. Wily Peralta, rhp, MIL
70. Brian Goodwin, of, WAS
71. Jedd Gyorko, 3b/2b, SD
72. Aaron Hicks, of, MIN
73. Adam Eaton, of, ARI
74. Avisail Garcia, of, DET
75. Marcell Ozuna, of, FLA
76. Michael Wacha, rhp, STL
77. Tyler Austin, of, NYY
78. Luis Heredia, rhp, PIT
79. Nick Franklin, ss/2b, SEA
80. Didi Gregorius, ss, ARI
81. Martin Perez, lhp, TEX
82. Tony Cingrani, lhp, CIN
83. Arodys Vizcaino, rhp, CHC
84. Kolten Wong, 2b, STL
85. Yordano Ventura, rhp, KC
86. Justin Nicolino, lhp, FLA
87. James Paxton, lhp, SEA
88. Matt Davidson, 3b, ARI
89. Jesse Biddle, lhp, PHI
90. Hak-Ju Lee, ss, TB
91. Henry Owens, lhp, BOS
92. Jake Odorizzi, rhp, TB
93. J.R. Graham, rhp, ATL
94. Daniel Corcino, rhp, CIN
95. Bruce Rondon, rhp, DET
96. Trevor Story, ss/3b, COL
97. Leonys Martin, of, TEX
98. Marcus Stroman, rhp, TOR
99. Delino DeShields, 2b, HOU
100. Roman Quinn, ss, PHI
 
I've accepted that my adoption of Levon Washington probably isn't going to work out the way I wanted it to. Hopefully he can stay healthy and get it together.
 
I've accepted that my adoption of Levon Washington probably isn't going to work out the way I wanted it to. Hopefully he can stay healthy and get it together.


i never liked the Washington pick, never saw him more then a possible Juan Pierre clone
 
i never liked the Washington pick, never saw him more then a possible Juan Pierre clone

Absolutely nothing like Juan Pierre. Guy showed more than adequate pop in high school and college.

They're both black though, so there's that.
 
Absolutely nothing like Juan Pierre. Guy showed more than adequate pop in high school and college.

They're both black though, so there's that.

LOL Wrong troll
in 355 career MILB ABs washington has 18 XBH in his entire lifetime, no one gives a shit about HS and Junior/Community College

JP hit 11 in a 260 AB season, 34 in a 585 AB season (Washington would need to near double his career ABs to get to that number) 21 in a 456 AB season 20 in a 439 AB Season, literally every year was better then Washingtons entire pro career put together

but nice Troll job, do some research the next time you post, you might not look like such a douchbag troll
 
LOL Wrong troll
in 355 career MILB ABs washington has 18 XBH in his entire lifetime, no one gives a shit about HS and Junior/Community College

JP hit 11 in a 260 AB season, 34 in a 585 AB season (Washington would need to near double his career ABs to get to that number) 21 in a 456 AB season 20 in a 439 AB Season, literally every year was better then Washingtons entire pro career put together

but nice Troll job, do some research the next time you post, you might not look like such a douchbag troll

I love this guy.

Seriously though, their game is really nothing alike.

Pierre is a pure slap hitter who relies on a speed game. He had one home run in his minor league career and I'm fairly certain it was an inside the park home run to boot.

Washington had four homers in his first full season, and doesn't have the same class of speed. Nor is he really a slap hitter.

I applaud the effort, but actually looking at these guys makes it pretty obvious they're nothing alike. Pierre's MLB seasons compared to Washingtons three injury plagued 19-21 year old seasons not withstanding.
 
Last edited:
Seems like the opinions on Paulino are all over the board - some guys LOVE him - others don't even rank him.
 
Seems like the opinions on Paulino are all over the board - some guys LOVE him - others don't even rank him.

I think some of it may depend on where they believe he fits long-term, if they move him from shortstop his value is slightly less than it would be.

Didn't get a chance to see him in person yet, but in the race to shortstop between him, Lindor and Ronny Rodriguez he is behind a few levels so they'll get a crack to take over.
 
According to the BA chat, they had Paulino in the 5 guys 'who just missed' and they were all written about in a subscriber article. Also, later in the chat someone asked who is most likely to move into the top 100 who missed this year and Paulino was ranked there. I think the opinions are based on what we already know: Paulino doesn't have 'wow' physical dimensions, but he has raked in his time in pro ball- he just doesn't have the physical projectability of a Profar, for example. So there is intrigue there, and I think if he continues to rake as he moves up he will rocket up the prospect rankings. Im cautious on him myself, the pop looked good especially for his (supposed) age but I wonder what that ceiling is and if he can stay in the middle of the diamond. Will be a fun year to watch with him.
 
What team is Nick Hamilton playing for this Summer? Scrappers? Can't find it anywhere.
 
What team is Nick Hamilton playing for this Summer? Scrappers? Can't find it anywhere.

Won't know that until rosters are released shortly before their seasons begin in June.

He'll end up back in Arizona or with MV.
 
Prospects Will Break Your Heart
Top 101 Prospects

by Jason Parks

Previous Rankings: 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007

2013 Top 101 Prospects Breakdown by Position, Organization, and Age: Link

This list was conceptualized and constructed in late December, and finalized and submitted for Baseball Prospectus 2013 in early January. I have avoided it ever since out of revisionist fear. When this particular list was created, the Baseball Prospectus prospect crew was only two months into the team top 10 lists, having found our rhythm in the process but only scratched the surface of all the talent in the minors. With countless emails, calls, texts, IMs, letters, and Candygrams exchanged between members of the BP team and members of the baseball industry, we played prospect Nostradamus and worked ahead of the team lists, spelunking for information like we had never spelunked before. It was a stressful time, but also one of the most rewarding of my career, a daily debate about prospects that consumed all available energy and intellect. It was a prospect boot camp, and I loved every second of it.

Fast-forward two months, and I'm still thrilled with the rewards of the process and the overall plus-plus quality of the work; that conviction will never waver. But I’m also aware of the realities of such a project and saddled with the occasional second thought; not because the list is rife with unexplainable error or incompetence, but because appetite and approach evolve with each new influence, conversation, and exchange of information. At the time of construction, we had more than 100 names for the final 50 spots on the list, and you can make a reasonable and articulate case for each player’s inclusion. We picked up our phones, touched our fingers to keys, and put our collective heads together and carved out the following list, which I’m honored to stand by. That’s not to say that I haven’t thought about tweaks or trims...

1. Jurickson Profar, SS, Rangers
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 4

2. Oscar Taveras, OF, Cardinals
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 23

3. Gerrit Cole, RHP, Pirates
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 9

4. Dylan Bundy, RHP, Orioles
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 6

5. Zack Wheeler, RHP, Mets
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 30

6. Jose Fernandez, RHP, Marlins
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 80

7. Wil Myers, CF, Rays
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 19

8. Byron Buxton, CF, Twins
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

9. Taijuan Walker, RHP, Mariners
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 14

10. Francisco Lindor, SS, Indians
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 17

11. Jameson Taillon, RHP, Pirates
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 13

12. Xander Bogaerts, SS, Red Sox
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 32

13. Kevin Gausman, RHP, Orioles
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

14. Billy Hamilton, CF, Reds
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: 22

15. Travis d'Arnaud, C, Mets
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 16

16. Shelby Miller, RHP, Cardinals
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 10

17. Tyler Skaggs, LHP, Diamondbacks
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 21

18. Albert Almora, CF, Cubs
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

19. Austin Hedges, C, Padres
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 94

20. Javier Baez, SS, Cubs
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 66

21. Miguel Sano, 3B, Twins
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 12

22. Addison Russell, SS, Athletics
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

23. Christian Yelich, CF, Marlins
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 33

24. Trevor Bauer, RHP, Indians
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 11

25. Jonathan Singleton, 1B, Astros
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 73

26. Carlos Correa, SS, Astros
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

27. Jackie Bradley, CF, Red Sox
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

28. Noah Syndergaard, RHP, Mets
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 93

29. Chris Archer, RHP, Rays
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

30. Mike Olt, 3B, Rangers
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 45

31. Archie Bradley, RHP, Diamondbacks
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 37

32. Aaron Sanchez, RHP, Blue Jays
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

33. Mike Zunino, C, Mariners
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

34. Trevor Story, SS, Rockies
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

35. Anthony Rendon, 3B, Nationals
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: 26

36. Jorge Soler, RF, Cubs
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

37. Nick Castellanos, 3B, Tigers
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 71

38. Matt Barnes, RHP, Red Sox
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

39. Rymer Liriano, RF, Padres
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 52

40. David Dahl, CF, Rockies
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

41. Kyle Zimmer, RHP, Kansas City Royals
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

42. Kaleb Cowart, 3B, Los Angeles Angels
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

43. Carlos Martinez, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 31

44. Gregory Polanco, CF, Pittsburgh Pirates
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

45. Trevor Rosenthal, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

46. Aaron Hicks, CF, Minnesota Twins
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

47. Gary Sanchez, C, New York Yankees
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: 40

48. Taylor Guerrieri, RHP, Tampa Bay Rays
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

49. Bubba Starling, CF, Kansas City Royals
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 27

50. Danny Hultzen, LHP, Seattle Mariners
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 35

51. Mason Williams, CF, New York Yankees
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: 99

52. Julio Teheran, RHP, Atlanta Braves
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: 5

53. Luis Heredia, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 42

54. Arodys Vizcaino, RHP, Chicago Cubs
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 62

55. George Springer, CF, Houston Astros
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 49

56. Michael Wacha, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

57. Nolan Arenado, 3B, Colorado Rockies
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 20

58. Adalberto Mondesi, SS, Kansas City Royals
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

59. Martin Perez, LHP, Texas Rangers
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 36

60. Oswaldo Arcia, RF, Minnesota Twins
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

61. Max Fried, LHP, Padres
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

62. Yordano Ventura, RHP, Royals
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

63. J.R. Graham, RHP, Braves
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking:

64. Kyle Gibson, RHP, Twins
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

65. Kyle Crick, RHP, Giants
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: N/A

66. Alen Hanson, SS, Pirates
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

67. Jesse Biddle, LHP, Phillies
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 84

68. Wily Peralta, RHP, Brewers
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 92

69. Allen Webster, RHP, Red Sox
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

70. Lucas Giolito, RHP, Nationals
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: N/A

71. Jake Marisnick, CF, Marlins
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 28

72. Nick Franklin, MI, Mariners
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 28

73. Justin Nicolino, LHP, Marlins
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

74. Brian Goodwin, CF, Nationals
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: N/A

75. Hak-Ju Lee, SS, Rays
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 65

76. Jorge Alfaro, C, Rangers
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 101

77. Casey Kelly, RHP, Padres
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 78

78. Robert Stephenson, RHP, Reds
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: N/A

79. Yasiel Puig, OF, Dodgers
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

80. Jonathan Schoop, 2B, Orioles
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 85

81. Chris Owings, SS, Diamondbacks
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

82. Michael Choice, CF, Athletics
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 39

83. Jake Odorizzi, RHP, Rays
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 47

84. Jedd Gyorko, 3B, Padres
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 57

85. Dan Straily, RHP, Athletics
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

86. Luis Sardinas, SS, Rangers
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

87. Zach Lee, RHP, Dodgers
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 70

88. Alex Meyer, RHP, Twins
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

89. Matt Davidson, 3B, Diamondbacks
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

90. Kolten Wong, 2B, Cardinals
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 88

91. Tony Cingrani, LHP, Reds
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: N/A

92. James Paxton, LHP, Mariners
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: 59

93. Christian Bethancourt, C, Braves
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: N/A

94. Tyrell Jenkins, RHP, Cardinals
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

95. Clayton Blackburn, RHP, Giants
Scouting Report (most recent): Coming soon
2012 Ranking: N/A

96. Dorssys Paulino, SS, Indians
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

97. Sean Nolin, LHP, Blue Jays
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

98. Michael Fulmer, RHP, Mets
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

99. Lewis Brinson, CF, Rangers
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

100. Tyler Thornburg, RHP, Brewers
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

101. Delino DeShields Jr., 2B, Astros
Scouting Report (most recent): Link
2012 Ranking: N/A

Notes

I love Jurickson Profar, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t give serious thought to fighting for Taveras for the no. 1 spot. Profar plays a premium position, can swing a great stick, and has a wonderful smile, so I’d be arguing an unwinnable case. But Taveras’ bat has a chance to stop wars (or start wars; whichever you prefer). I’ve never been more impressed with a young hitter than I am with Taveras. Watching him take a ball over the batter’s eye during batting practice at the Futures Game probably influenced this infatuation. I was attracted to him before, but after feeling his bat speed from 10 feet away, I started writing poetry in his name. His offensive potential is abnormal. That sh*t cray.

Courtney Hawkins: He’s a Texan with a ton of natural athleticism and power potential, but outside of my amateur sources, nobody wanted to turn up their microphones and be heard. Like the aforementioned 100 prospects that had a case to be on the back half of this list, Hawkins could just as easily be no. 60 as he could no. 101. If you believe in the bat, even from a corner spot, he belongs on the list. But if you have doubts about the overall promise of the stick and don’t like the direction the body is heading, even with the back-flipping athleticism that is currently present, the case for exclusion is just as strong and compelling. When I’m in the mood for ceiling, Hawkins belongs on the 101.

Why don’t people love Gerrit Cole? Is it the production? Is it the Southern California thing? I don’t get it. His on-paper stuff is the best in the minors. Is it because I have to say “on-paper stuff”? Okay, I get it.

Addison Russell (the shortstop) is a top-20 prospect. He should probably be higher. If the body is shortstop legit and the bat continues to progress, he could be no. 1 on the list next year. He’s that guy. Several scouts weren’t ready to go all-in yet because of the physical profile; mostly scouts who had eyes on Russell as an amateur and saw a thick upper body and lateral range that looked destined to leave the middle for the hot corner down the line.

If this were just the “Jason Parks makes a list of 101 prospects without any outside input or influence” list, I’d rank Chris Archer even higher. He’s not a teenager and the gap between present and future isn’t extreme, but so what? Have you seen him pitch? His stuff is NC-17 and can flash snuff film potential. The command needs work and the changeup is more flash than sustainable fire, but the slider is one of the best secondary offerings from a young arm you will see, and the fastball isn’t ordering from the kid’s menu. He might be my favorite young pitcher to watch in action. He’s either a no. 2 starter or one of the better late-inning relievers in the game. I’m smitten.

Adalberto Mondesi might seem like a guy with helium based on his on-the-field statistics/age. I don’t care about his numbers. Go watch this kid. Those who have seen him in person know what I’m talking about. He has “it,” and you know what that looks like when you see it. It’s part instinct and part tools, but it's full prospect. He’s special. Even if the production slumps in full-season ball, keep him on the radar. He has high-end impact potential. It’s there. Just wait.

Jesse Biddle might be too high, but my sources were high on him and I didn’t fight against it. It’s not special, but it has a very good chance to be solid, and that has a ton of value. Jason the ceiling horse isn’t overly impressed.

Robert Stephenson will be at least 30 spots higher in 2014. Maybe he should be that high now. Love the arm; love the approach.

Dan Straily. I wasn’t thrilled about putting him on the list in the first place, but I get it. He’s a very safe major-league starter, and even though the stuff isn’t crazy, it’s deep and very functional. I will admit a bias against safe and secure in favor of high and hazardous. It’s just my bag, man. I have a taste for high ceilings.

Rymer Liriano will miss the season after Tommy John surgery. While I'm sure it would affect his immediate ranking, its hard for me to gauge by how much. Obviously, the recovery will take a full season and the arm strength/accuracy could be slow to come back, but the hit/power/run tools should be able to stay in the same general range. This gives me hope that his status will recover. It's a setback and it sucks, but I don't think it's soul-crushing for his prospect status.

Lewis Brinson: He has the skills to be the top prospect in the Rangers system next year, and at least 50 spots higher on the 101 list. He’s a high-risk prospect, so let’s not start exchanging promise rings yet. But the tools are loud and the projection extreme, so when and if it clicks, it has a chance to be disturbingly good. A role 7 (all-star) future isn’t a drug-fueled hallucination. Everything else I write that is non-baseball related might be, though. Just a heads-up.

Yasiel Puig: Who knows? He’s either too high or too low. Sources either think he’s a no-brainer role 6 player or a guy who is all hype and will eventually bust before reaching the majors. Very little in between.

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=19694#.USuITwx-MC4.twitter
 
1) St. Louis Cardinals (ranked #5 last year): Strengths: Everything. They have pitching, hitting, high upside, and depth. They have a proven track record of player development. Weaknesses: none really. They could use a shortstop with a better bat but so could most teams.

2) Seattle Mariners (#4 last year): Strength: Good balance between hitting and pitching, strength up the middle with Zunino, Miller, Franklin; potential ace arms; good knack for finding underappreciated college hitters. Weaknesses: Persistent problems with Latin American prospects showing poor strike zone judgment and contact issues.

3) Tampa Bay Rays (#7): System was already strong and trade with Royals just adds more. Strength: considerable pitching depth; good mix of players who will be ready now/soon (Myers, Archer, Odorizzi) plus guys at lower levels with high upside. Weaknesses: upper level hitting other than Myers.

4) Texas Rangers (3): System in transitional phase but still among the best in the game, headlined by Profar and Olt. Strengths: lots and lots of high-upside players, strong up-the-middle depth, low-level bats with big upside. Weaknesses: pitching is not as good as the hitting, no one stands out as a future ace, needs to show they can develop the tools guys into actual players.

5) Pittsburgh Pirates (12): System improving rapidly. Strengths: high upside pitching arms (Cole, Taillon, Heredia) with depth to back them up, lots of C+ types. Breakthrough seasons from Alen Hanson and Gregory Polanco point to improvement in Latin American acquisitions. Weaknesses: big investments in high school pitching have not paid off. More hitting depth would be helpful.

6) San Diego Padres (2): This system is still persistently underrated. Jedd Gyorko is poster boy for that. Strengths: tons and tons of depth, large number of prospects in the B/B-/C+ range, could look even better if recent high school pitching drafts take off in '13. Weaknesses: hitting is weaker than pitching but it isn't bad, especially if Austin Hedges continues to hit. Expensive investments in high school tools players have not panned out (Donavan Tate, Everett Williams).

7) Minnesota Twins (17): Strengths: hitting. Oswaldo Arcia and Aaron Hicks will be ready to help the outfield sometime in 2013. Enormous upside in players like Miguel Sano and Byron Buxton, Max Kepler and Eddie Rosario. Weaknesses: lack of high upside arms although that's improved thanks to '12 draft and winter trades that brought in Alex Meyer and Trevor May. If new group of arms develops properly, this could be a top three system by end of '13.

8) Miami Marlins (29): Quick turnaround here. Strengths: star power at the top with Christian Yelich and Jose Fernandez. Trades have added some depth (Marisnick, Nicolino, Hechavarria, Dietrich, Brantly). Some sleeper pitching arms (Charlie Lowell, Mason Hope). Weaknesses: much of the improvement is due to trades and not internal development, especially on the hitting side.

9) Boston Red Sox (11): Very solid farm system. Strengths: Bogaerts can/will be an All-Star, and Bradley should be a strong regular. Good depth in Grade B-/C+ types. System could jump several spots next year if low-level sleepers (Cody Kukuk, Jose Vinicio for example) take a step forward. Weaknesses: some of the tools guys and livelier arms haven't developed as hoped.

10) Houston Astros (25 last year, ranked 11th on January 28th 2013, moved up to 10th on February 5th following Jed Lowrie trade): Another system that has improved rapidly. Strengths: 2012 draft class looks excellent thanks to inventive exploitation of new draft rules. Trades have dramatically improved system depth. Potential impact bats in Singleton, Correa, Springer. Weaknesses: pitching is weaker than hitting especially at the higher levels, no obvious rotation anchor types are close to the majors. It will take time for recent draftees to filter through system.

11) Chicago Cubs (20, ranked 10th on January 28th 2013, moved to 11th on February 5th following Jed Lowrie trade): Another system that has improved quickly. Strengths: hitting at the top: Javier Baez, Albert Almora, Jorge Soler, Dan Vogelbach is a very impressive quartet and there is depth beyond them. Good developments with recent Latin American prospects at the lower levels. Weaknesses: pitching is much, much weaker than the hitting. Improving that has to be a priority.

12) New York Mets (15): Strengths: strong at the top with trade acquisitions Zack Wheeler, Travis D'arnaud, and Noah Syndergaard all ranking as Grade A- prospects. Pitching in general is a strength, with large amount of depth behind the top group. Weaknesses: impact hitting behind D'Arnaud and Wilmer Flores.

13) Arizona Diamondbacks (9): Strengths: good group of pitching prospects, with Tyler Skaggs, Archie Bradley, Andrew Chafin, David Holmberg a sound group with several of C+/B- beyond them. Weaknesses: Impact hitting, though Adam Eaton and Matt Davidson can be regulars and Stryker Trahan must be watched closely. Overall a solid system.

14) New York Yankees (16): Strengths: quartet of young hitters at the top, with Gary Sanchez, Tyler Austin, Mason Williams, and Slade Heathcott all potential impact prospects, though all have some questions. Good depth in C+ types behind them. Weaknesses: impact pitching. I don't count Manny Banuelos as an automatic Tommy John recovery. Wildcard: Rafael DePaula, who could vault up lists quickly once he pitches against people his own age.

15) Cincinnati Reds (21): Strengths: pitching at the top with Robert Stephenson, Dan Corcino, Tony Cingrani and additional arms to back them up. Weaknesses: offense, once you get past Billy Hamilton and Jesse Winker though there are some bats at the lower levels that could develop. As with Arizona, this is a solid system in a transition phase and ranking here is no insult.

16) Colorado Rockies (13): Strengths: hitting at the top, with Trevor Story, David Dahl, Nolan Arenado, Kyle Parker all potential regulars if not more, with valuable role players behind them. Weaknesses: pitching. I like Edwar Cabrera, but he's unusual and everyone behind him has a red flag of some kind. As with Arizona and Cincinnati, this is a solid mid-range system with a lot to offer but some holes to fill.

17) San Francisco Giants (26): Strengths: Pitching! Kyle Crick, Chris Stratton, Clayton Blackburn are all strong rotation candidates for the future and there are some nice lefties too (Mike Kickham, Steven Okert, Josh Osich, Adalberto Mejia) plus bullpen material. Weaknesses: Hitting. I have a lot of mixed feelings about Gary Brown, Joe Panik, and Francisco Peguero. Can Mac Williamson be the needed impact bat?

18) Baltimore Orioles (19): This is where the big dropoff starts, as Orioles are clearly weaker than the teams ahead of them. Strengths: Dylan Bundy and Kevin Gausman are both potential aces and there are some decent arms backing them up though more depth will help. Weaknesses: with Manny Machado in the majors, hitting is a weak spot though I do like Jonathan Schoop. This system is improving but needs more time.

19) Los Angeles Dodgers (22): Strengths: Good hitting group at the top with Joc Pederson, Corey Seager, and Yasiel Puig. Some decent C+ pitching in the system. Weaknesses: general lack of depth, especially on pitching side with a group of arms that may or may not develop. I don't see Zach Lee as an ace at this point. System was thin due to financial limits but is turning around quickly due to monetary infusion. With the Logan White and his scouts unleashed, improvement should continue rapidly.

20) Philadelphia Phillies (24): Strengths: Good pitching depth with Jesse Biddle, Adam Morgan, Austin Wright standing out; they seem to find nice lefties. They also have a habit of finding Tyler Cloyd types that scouts don't like but who get people out. Some nice right-handers too with Ethan Martin and Jon Pettibone nearly ready to contribute, plus considerable bullpen material. Weaknesses: Hitting. Heavy investments in tools players have not panned out. Untoolsy Darin Ruf was a nice surprise though. Not a terrible system, clearly better than the teams behind them.

21) Kansas City Royals (6): James Shields trade cuts the heart out of this farm system, so they better win now. Strengths: some good arms remain headlined by Kyle Zimmer and Yordano Ventura. There are some intriguing tools guys at lower levels who could develop. Weaknesses: Overall hitting depth at the upper levels. Will Bubba Starling, Adalberto Mondesi, Orlando Calixte, Jorge Bonifacio, Cheslor Cuthbert, and Elier Hernandez put their tools to good use? Wildcard: right-hander Miguel Almonte.

22) Toronto Blue Jays (1): Another system gutted by recent trades by a team pushing to win in 2013. Remaining strengths: pitching, with Aaron Sanchez, Roberto Osuna, Marcus Stroman, and underappreciated Sean Nolin a nice quartet at the top and more live arms behind them. Weaknesses: they have a lot of tools guys who haven't shown they can play baseball yet. If they pan out, the Jays will move back up the list quickly.

23) Milwaukee Brewers (28): Strengths: Lots of B-/C+ types and potential role players which every team needs. A couple of nice pitchers at the top and ready to help with Wily Peralta, Tyler Thornburg. Weaknesses: impact talent, especially on the hitting side, although the 2012 draft could change that quickly if Victor Roache and Clint Coulter produce as expected. Not an elite system but not empty, and could look a lot better a year from now.

24) Cleveland Indians (27): I thought this system could take a big step forward but it didn't really happen. Strengths: Trevor Bauer and some lively arms behind him. Middle infield depth beginning with Francisco Lindor and Dorssys Paulino. Weaknesses: uninspired performances from young tools players at the lower levels, but there is still time for those guys to come around. The Indians remain an organization that could take a big leap forward in ‘13.

25) Washington Nationals (14): Graduations and trades have quickly weakened the talent down on the farm over the last year, but Mike Rizzo and company should be able to recharge quickly and the major league roster is young and strong. Strengths: Anthony Rendon and Brian Goodwin have star potential. Considerable raw material for a pitching staff. Weaknesses: They are banking a lot on injured pitchers recovering well. Many prospects are too old for their levels.

26) Atlanta Braves (8 last year, ranked 27th on January 28th, 2013, moved to 26th on February 4th following Jed Lowrie trade): System thinned out very quickly due to graduations, trades, injuries. Strengths: There is still good depth in pitching, though the highest ceiling arm (Julio Teheran) is enigmatic. Weaknesses: hitting. Tools players like Christian Bethancourt and Edward Salcedo are developing poorly with the bat.

27) Oakland Athletics (10 last year, ranked 26th on January 28th 2013, moved to 27th on February 4th following Jed Lowrie trade): Like the Nationals, graduations have quickly thinned the talent in the minors, but that's just fine at this point given how well many of the rookies performed last year. Strengths: 2012 draft brought in several interesting bats beginning with possible superstar Addison Russell. Good depth in potential relief pitching. Weaknesses: impact hitting and starting pitching at the upper levels.

28) Chicago White Sox (30): White Sox scouts can find players when given the resources to do so, but years of cheapskate draft strategy and poor non-Cuban Latin American focus have crippled system depth. Strengths: toolsy outfielders, with Courtney Hawkins looking excellent from 2012 draft. Weaknesses: overall depth, particularly with potential starting pitching. It will be interesting to see if new GM Rick Hahn can turn this around quickly.

29) Los Angeles Angels (18): Big drop now that Mike Trout has graduated and other players have been traded. Strengths: decent group of position players with Kaleb Cowart the best of the lot. Several potential bullpen arms. Weaknesses: impact pitching, especially potential starting pitchers. Overall depth.

30) Detroit Tigers (23): Very thin in all respects. Strengths: Nick Castellanos and Avisail Garcia could help soon, and there are some potential role players behind them. Bullpen arms. Weaknesses: lack of depth almost everywhere, particularly hitting.

http://www.minorleagueball.com/2013/1/28/3925786/2013-baseball-farm-system-rankings


lol @ the Royals
 

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