jays4life19

What a collapse by the Yankees lol.

Yesss!

It's Andrew Miller time.

We have a ball game!

f*** yes!

CA Monnnnn Lindor

Yelp

Nooooo Indians. At least CC Sabathia is pitching.

Let's Go Indians!

And with that..it's time to watch the Indians game.

Anddd they pull him lol

Lol yeah, it doesn't pay very well... Cubs were an underdog though!

I have the Astros, Indians, Cubs and Dodgers today.

Dammit that would have been a great comeback by the bucs

lol

1. Amed Rosario, SS, Las Vegas (Mets) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_mets77.jpg 3ds_mets77Age: 21 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 189 Signed: Dominican Republic, 2012 Rosario already boasted some of the best tools among minor league shortstops, including terrific athleticism and the strongest throwing arm in the PCL. This season he added much more polish, paving the way to his Aug. 1 callup to the Mets. The shortstop has great hands, plus range and high reliability. "One thing he learned this year was how to position himself," Las Vegas manager Pedro Lopez said, "how to better learn swings and take control over the infield . . . Especially last year, some of the errors he made were staying back on balls and relying too much on his arm." Rosario's approach at the plate also improved drastically. He established career highs with a .328 average and seven home runs. He also stole 19 bases with plus-plus speed. "He's still aggressive," Lopez said, "but he's staying away from those marginal pitches and focusing on pitches he can drive." AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 393 66 129 19 7 7 58 23 67 19 6 .328 .367 .466 2. Lewis Brinson, OF, Colorado Springs (Brewers) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_brewers79.jpg 3ds_brewers79Age 23 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-3 Wt.: 195 Drafted: HS—Coral Springs, Fla., 2012 (1/Rangers) ADVERTISING Brinson recorded a 1.005 OPS in a 23-game trial in the thin air of Colorado Springs last year after coming over from the Rangers in the Jonathan Lucroy trade. The five-tool center fielder continued to rake in the PCL this season, hitting .331 and showing plus power and speed. Key to Brinson's continuing maturation as a player is improved discipline at bat and in the field. He walked more and struck out less this season than in any previous primary assignment, while also working to improve his jumps and routes in the outfield. He also learned a lot from three callups to Milwaukee, even though he barely hit .100 in those stints. "I think the biggest thing is realizing (pitchers) aren't going to throw you strikes unless you make them throw you strikes," Colorado Springs manager Rick Sweet said. ". . . You have to make them throw strikes by not chasing out of the zone." AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 299 66 99 22 4 13 48 32 62 11 5 .331 .400 .562 3. Derek Fisher, OF, Fresno (Astros) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/HoustonAstros.png HoustonAstrosAge: 24 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-3 Wt.: 205 Drafted: Virginia, 2014 (1s) Fisher finally put all the pieces of his offensive identity together this season. He hit more than 20 home runs for the third straight season and cut his strikeout rate back below 20 percent before the Astros called him up in July. "He tried to use his (above-average) speed early in his career by putting the ball on the ground and running," Fresno manager Tony DeFrancesco said. "Now he's got his swing path probably elevated a little bit. He has exceptional exit velocity . . . He's being more selective at the plate. He's really focused on his swing decisions." Fisher's altered batting approach didn't cost him in other departments. He stole 16 bases in 84 games in the PCL. DeFrancesco said he expects Fisher to stay at left field in the majors, though he has the versatility for center and right. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 343 63 109 26 1 21 66 35 74 16 10 .318 .384 .583 4. Alex Verdugo, OF, Oklahoma City (Dodgers) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_dodgers82.jpg 3ds_dodgers82Age: 21 B-T: L-L Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 205 Drafted: HS—Tucson, 2014 (2) Verdugo added to his reputation as one of the more disciplined young hitters in the minors by finishing with more walks (52) than strikeouts (50) and cutting his strikeout rate down to 10 percent. The leap in home run power Verdugo showed at Double-A in 2016 with a career-high 13 longballs didn't carry over to this season, but he continued to hit for average by spraying the ball around and driving the gaps with 27 doubles and four triples. His swing doesn't feature much loft, so remaining sharp in center field will be imperative. Verdugo has speed despite his muscle-bound frame and a strong throwing arm, which allows him to profile in center in the majors. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 433 67 136 27 4 6 62 52 50 9 3 .314 .389 .436 5. Paul DeJong, SS, Memphis (Cardinals) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_cardinals81.jpg 3ds_cardinals81Age: 24 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-1 Wt.: 195 Drafted: Illinois State, 2015 (4) DeJong hit 13 home runs in 48 games in Memphis before the Cardinals called him up, and he quickly morphed into one of big club's most potent offensive players with plus power while starting games at shortstop and second base. DeJong worked extensively with Memphis manager Stubby Clapp on his form at shortstop early this season. "His aptitude is outstanding," Clapp said. "He just needed to learn how to use his feet to get his momentum through the ball, to help his arm get it across the infield. He's average in terms of range, but if he gets to the ball, he's going to catch it." Because DeJong doesn't command the strike zone—he had six times as many strikeouts as walks this season—he probably won't hit for a high average. "He's able to hit off the fastball and make adjustments," Clapp said. "He makes hitting as basic and easy as you can." AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 177 27 53 9 0 13 34 9 46 0 2 .299 .339 .571 6. Dominic Smith, 1B, Las Vegas (Mets) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_mets77.jpg 3ds_mets77Age: 22 B-T: L-L Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 239 Drafted: HS—Gardena, Calif., 2013 (1) A career .302 hitter in the minors, Smith stepped up his power production at Las Vegas by smashing a career-high 16 home runs and 34 doubles. The Mets called him up on Aug. 11. While his power numbers have increased the past two seasons, Smith hasn't changed his approach much. He projects for solid-average power, while hitting the ball to the off field enough to hit for a plus average. Thickly built but more athletic than he appears, Smith has plus hands and footwork at first base. "His plate discipline is what stands out," Las Vegas manager Pedro Lopez said. "He's not going out there just to hit home runs. He has power, but he stays within himself. He stays up the middle with his approach, and most of his home runs come by hitting the ball the opposite way." AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 457 77 151 34 2 16 76 39 87 1 1 .330 .386 .519 7. Carson Kelly, C, Memphis (Cardinals) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_cardinals81.jpg 3ds_cardinals81Age: 23 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 220 Drafted: HS—Portland, Ore., 2012 (2) Drafted as a third baseman out of high school, Kelly learned to play catcher after turning pro. He broke out offensively at Double-A in 2016 and continued to develop this season in the PCL with enhanced selectivity and a career-high 10 homer runs. "When he's on time, he's dangerous," Memphis manager Stubby Clapp said. "It's just being consistent with his load phase and squaring up the ball." A big reason why the Cardinals in late July called up Kelly, who is lauded for his ability to work with a pitching staff, is because he's the heir apparent to Yadier Molina. He has a good arm and good footwork with a durable body, but his ability to call a game could separate him from other young catchers. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 244 37 69 13 0 10 41 33 40 0 2 .283 .375 .459 8. Jack Flaherty, RHP, Memphis (Cardinals) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_cardinals81.jpg 3ds_cardinals81Age: 21 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-4 Wt.: 205 Drafted: HS—Los Angeles, 2014 (1) Flaherty blitzed through Double-A this year, allowing just 10 runs and just 11 walks in 10 starts with Springfield. He pitched effectively at Memphis, recording a 2.18 ERA between the two stops, before the Cardinals called him up on Sept. 1. Flaherty still gets most of his work done with his fastball. He can hit 96 mph, but more importantly, he can locate the pitch and keep it down. "He's just aggressive," Memphis manager Stubby Clapp said. "He's got a heavy fastball, and he's aggressive with it. There's no fear on the mound." Flaherty could still use a deeper repertoire, however. He used a changeup in high school but has relied more on a slider and a curveball as a pro. None is a plus pitch at this point, hence his reliance on the fastball. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 7 2 2.74 15 15 0 85 73 26 26 10 24 85 .233 9. Ryan McMahon, 1B/2B, Albuquerque (Rockies) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_rockies79.jpg 3ds_rockies79Age: 22 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 185 Drafted: HS—Santa Ana, Calif., 2013 (2) McMahon reduced his strikeout rate markedly this season to about 18 percent, all while maintaining power and connecting for a career-high 20 home runs. He has a long, lean frame and large strike zone, but he improved his plate coverage this season by leveling his swing. He lost loft in his swing in the process, but enhanced selectivity helped his power play. Drafted as a third baseman, McMahon has struggled to find a position. He first learned to play first base in 2016 and then added second base this season. He has the athleticism to man second and third as a fringe-average defender but probably fits best at first. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 289 46 108 23 2 14 56 21 53 4 3 .374 .411 .612 10. Luke Weaver, RHP, Memphis (Cardinals) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_cardinals81.jpg 3ds_cardinals81Age: 24 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 170 Drafted: Florida State, 2014 (1) Weaver continues to dominate despite a rail-thin frame. His fastball still sits in the mid-90s, and he has command of that as well as his changeup, cutter and slider. He has sharp control with a walk rate of just 1.8 per nine innings in 53 minor league starts. "He competes," Memphis manager Stubby Clapp said. "Even when he doesn't have his best stuff, he's not giving in . . . He's strong and wiry and he's got good arm whip." Weaver has had issues with durability, which isn't surprising considering his frame, but he surpassed 100 innings for the second straight season and showed much more comfort at the big league level when the Cardinals called him up three different times. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 10 2 2.55 15 15 0 78 63 24 22 3 19 76 .222 11. Josh Hader, LHP, Colorado Springs (Brewers) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_brewers79.jpg 3ds_brewers79Age: 23 B-T: L-L Ht.: 6-3 Wt.: 185 Drafted: HS—Millersville, Md., 2012 (19/Orioles) Rocked for a 5.22 ERA in 14 starts for Colorado Springs last year and a 5.37 mark this year in 12 more, Hader showed plus stuff in the PCL and morphed into a starring role—as a setup reliever—when called up to the Brewers on June 10. Hader's combination of mid-90s fastball and Wiffle-Ball slider confounded hitters, especially lefthanders. Though he dominated in the bullpen, the Brewers haven't ruled out a return to the rotation next year. That's because Hader throws a third pitch, a changeup, to give him a viable three-pitch mix. "He's got the stuff," Colorado Springs manager Rick Sweet said. "He's got the pitches. He just wasn't ready as a starter." W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 3 4 5.37 12 12 0 52 49 32 31 14 31 51 .253 12. Chris Shaw, OF, Sacramento (Giants) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_giants83.jpg 3ds_giants83Age: 23 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-4 Wt.: 235 Drafted: Boston College, 2015 (1) The hulking lefthanded batter slammed 24 home runs this season despite playing half his games in spacious parks at Double-A Richmond and then Sacramento. "He's got big-time power," Sacramento manager Dave Brundage said. "He's a pretty polished guy, even though he's not a finished product." Like most power hitters, Shaw trades some strikeouts for his plus power, but he hits the ball hard enough for an average hit tool. The bigger question is his future position. Drafted as a first baseman, Shaw won't play there for the Giants as long as they have Brandon Belt, thus he spent the season learning left field, an apprenticeship he will continue in the Arizona Fall League. While more comfortable at first base, Shaw has become playable in left field, albeit with limited range and arm strength. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 336 42 97 25 1 18 50 20 106 0 0 .289 .328 .530 13. Brandon Woodruff, RHP, Colorado Springs (Brewers) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_brewers79.jpg 3ds_brewers79Age: 24 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-4 Wt.: 215 Drafted: Mississippi State, 2014 (11) Following a breakthrough 2016 season in which he rose to Double-A, Woodruff looked sharp at Colorado Springs but had his big league debut delayed two months to Aug. 4 by a hamstring injury. Woodruff's sturdy frame, 94 mph fastball that reaches 96 and a power slider make him a probable workhorse starter. He struck out 8.4 batters per nine innings in the PCL, one year after leading the minors with 173 whiffs. He still has issues with control, but that can be expected with his velocity and movement. "He's a power pitcher," Colorado Springs manager Rick Sweet said. "He can manipulate his slider. The key for him is his aggressive style. He goes after hitters. It's just a matter of keeping that quality command all the time." W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 6 5 4.30 16 16 0 75 78 44 36 8 25 70 .266 14. Matt Chapman, 3B, Nashville (Athletics) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_athletics79.jpg 3ds_athletics79Age: 24 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 210 Drafted: Cal State Fullerton, 2014 (1) Chapman always has struck out frequently, and that rate shows no sign of abating. He whiffed 31 percent of the time while at Nashville and held that rate after being called up to the Athletics on June 15. Chapman's power is plus-plus, particularly to his pull side, and he demonstrates the patience to stay away from pitches out of the zone. "He is so strong that when he can at least touch the ball with the barrel, great things happen," Nashville manager Ryan Christenson said. While Chapman is a below-average hitter for average, his power, defense and arm—which grades at the top of the scale—are impact big league tools. "His athletic ability is unbelievable," Christenson said. "He's one of the best third basemen I've ever seen." AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 175 30 45 6 2 16 30 25 63 5 4 .257 .348 .589 15. Willie Calhoun, 2B/OF, Round Rock (Rangers) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_rangers83.jpg 3ds_rangers83Age: 22 B-T: L-R Ht.: 5-8 Wt.: 187 Drafted: Yavapai (Ariz.) JC, 2015 (4/Dodgers). With a quick, compact swing, Calhoun packs a lot of power and muscle into his 5-foot-8 frame, and he doesn't have to sacrifice contact to access his power. The Dodgers traded him to the Rangers in July as the headlining prospect for Yu Darvish. Calhoun bashed 31 home runs at his two PCL stops this season, one year after hitting 27 at Double-A. He has enough feel for the barrel and using the middle of the field to yield an average hit tool. Calhoun's problem is finding a defensive home. His hands are too hard for second base, and he's too short for first base, so left field is going to be his path forward. He shows average range and athleticism in the outfield. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 486 80 146 27 6 31 93 42 61 4 2 .300 .355 .572 16. Matt Olson, 1B, Nashville (Athletics) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_athletics79.jpg 3ds_athletics79Age: 23 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-5 Wt.: 230 Drafted: HS—Lilburn, Ga., 2012 (1s) Like other young sluggers such as Cody Bellinger or Joey Gallo, Olson is Three True Outcomes hitter, but his home runs and walks come frequently enough that they mitigate his strikeouts. Called up to the Athletics in June with a .364 career on-base percentage in the minors, Olson's patience and power translated to the majors instantly. "He (works the count) to get his pitch, because when he does that, he can leave the yard to any part of the yard," Nashville manager Ryan Christenson said. Olson received extensive minor league work at both first base and right field, which will give Oakland multiple options to get his bat in the lineup. First base, though, is his most comfortable position because he has quick feet and an average, accurate arm. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 294 56 80 16 1 23 60 45 83 3 0 .272 .367 .568 17. Franklin Barreto, SS/2B, Nashville (Athletics) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_athletics79.jpg 3ds_athletics79Age: 21B-T: R-R Ht.: 5-10 Wt.: 190 Signed: Venezuela, 2012 (Blue Jays) Barreto produced a career high 15 home runs in 111 games at Nashville as one of the youngest position players in the league. His strikeout rate also spiked to 28 percent in the PCL before becoming untenable in two callups to the Athletics. If he gets that under control, he should hit for average. "His numbers are all going to continue to rise as he improves what he's swinging at," Nashville manager Ryan Christenson said, ". . . (but) he still has to tighten up his discipline and slow down and wait for his pitch." Barreto's body has matured at a young age, which along with his error-prone, sometimes lackadaisical play at shortstop has hastened his move to second base. He's a plus runner who knows how to steal bases. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 469 63 136 19 7 15 54 27 141 15 8 .290 .339 .456 18. Victor Caratini, C/1B, Iowa (Cubs) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_cubs79.jpg 3ds_cubs79Age: 24 B-T: B-R Ht.: 6-1 Wt.: 215 Drafted: Miami Dade JC, 2013 (2/Braves) The Cubs acquired Caratini in 2014 when they shipped Emilio Bonifacio and James Russell to the Braves. The switch-hitter found his power stroke in 2017 with a career-high 10 home runs at Iowa, resulting in multiple big league callups to the Cubs. A natural righthanded hitter, Caratini improved his production from the left side by learning to meet the ball out front more frequently. With solid command of the strike zone, he should hit for average. Caratini is an average receiver with a fringe-average arm who threw out 27 percent of basestealers. Drafted as a third baseman before committing to catcher, he also plays first base regularly but lacks profile power to play there every day. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 292 50 100 27 3 10 61 27 48 1 0 .342 .393 .558 19. Harrison Bader, OF, Memphis (Cardinals) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_cardinals81.jpg 3ds_cardinals81Age: 23 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 195 Drafted: Florida, 2015 (3) Bader has played all three outfield positions during his time in the Cardinals organization, but Memphis manager Stubby Clapp thinks his home is obvious: center field. "He needs space to roam," he said. "He has too much speed to be stuck in a corner." The Cardinals seemed to agree. Bader saw most of his work in center during his two callups. Bader has shown significant power in three pro seasons and has the speed to contribute double-figure stolen bases. He could profile as a leadoff batter if he can improve his discipline and strikeout rate. "Once he develops a two-strike approach, he's going to be really good," Clapp said. "He just has to be better at selecting pitches and figure out what pitchers are trying to do to him." AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 431 74 122 18 1 20 55 34 118 15 9 .283 .347 .469 20. Brett Phillips, OF, Colorado Springs (Brewers) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_brewers79.jpg 3ds_brewers79Age: 23 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 185 Drafted: HS—Seminole, Fla., 2012 (6/Astros) Phillips had a rough 2016 season at Double-A Biloxi, but an assignment to hitter-friendly Colorado Springs restored his confidence this season. He drove the ample gaps at PCL parks to produce 19 home runs, 23 doubles and 10 triples. His all-fields hitting approach allowed him to hit .305 after bottoming out at .229 last year, despite identical strikeout rates of 30 percent. "He's probably one of the best players I've had in terms of maturing (baseball-wise) during a season," Colorado Springs manager Rick Sweet said. ". . . He doesn't chase (pitches) as much. He's still swinging and missing a lot, but he's swinging and missing in the zone." Phillips can play all three outfield spots with above-average speed but is on track to be a corner outfielder in the majors. Read more at http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/2017-pacific-coast-league-top-20-prospects/#3gSs2Xjfwuqsqe32.99

PCL top 20 time

Eastern League time. Allford @9. ______ 1. Rafael Devers, 3B, Portland (Red Sox) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_redsox83.jpg Age: 20 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 195 Signed: Dominican Republic, 2013 From the beginning of the EL season until the moment he left on July 15, Devers ranked among the very best prospects in the minors. His tools, especially offensively, were obviously impressive, but he also wowed managers with the ease with which he played. Devers this season developed into an all-fields hitter, a departure from the days when teams had the lefthanded batter shifted heavily to his pull side. He hits a fastball as well as anyone—as demonstrated when he hit an opposite-field home run on a 104 mph fastball from Aroldis Chapman in the big leagues— but didn't show particular vulnerability to offspeed stuff, either. Devers projects as an above-average hitter with above-average or better power. He has improved defensively and should stick at third base with decent range as well as soft hands and an above-average arm. The Red Sox, who traded many high-profile prospects last winter, look wise for keeping Devers, a potential cornerstone player who sparked Boston's offense in the second half. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 287 48 86 19 3 18 56 31 55 0 3 .300 .369 .575 2. Victor Robles, OF, Harrisburg (Nationals) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_nationals81.jpg Age: 20 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 185 Signed: Dominican Republic, 2013 After wowing scouts and managers in his full-season debut last year, Robles began the year back at high Class A Potomac before zooming to the EL in the second half and a surprise big league callup in September. Scouts agree on Robles' defensive impact potential, but at the plate they are a split camp. Some see a future leadoff-type hitter with the ability to spray the ball from gap to gap and use his plus-plus speed to take extra bases. Others see Robles, because of his already strong hands and forearms, as a player who will develop enough power to hit in the middle of the order. He still needs to refine his instincts on the basepaths and perhaps adjust his approach to keep him from getting hit by so many pitches, but he has all-star potential. ADVERTISING Robles is sure-fire center fielder with range in all directions and a well above-average throwing arm that will play in an outfield corner, if necessary. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 139 24 45 12 1 3 14 12 22 11 3 .324 .394 .489 3. Austin Hays, OF, Bowie (Orioles) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_orioles87.jpg Age: 22 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-1 Wt.: 195 Drafted: Jacksonville, 2016 (3) Among the biggest breakout players of 2017, Hays quickly made the Orioles look smart for drafting him out of Jacksonville in the third round last year. He tore up the Carolina and Eastern leagues with eerily symmetrical ferocity while showcasing impressive tools. Baltimore called him up in September to participate in the wild-card race. As one manager described Hays: "Good doesn't do him justice. He's an unbelievable player who can do anything on the field." Managers saw a player who can hit any pitch with authority. His 32 home runs overall ranked him second in the minors behind Astros first baseman A.J. Reed. Hays split time in center field in Bowie with Cedric Mullins, and though he would be fine in center in the majors, his plus-plus arm makes him a perfect fit for right field. He doesn't have the plus foot speed typical of center fielders, but managers saw him make up for it with excellent routes and jumps. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 261 39 86 17 2 16 54 13 45 1 1 .330 .367 .594 4. Brendan Rodgers, SS/2B, Hartford (Rockies) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_rockies85.jpg Age: 21 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 180 Drafted: HS—Lake Mary, Fla., 2015 (1) The third overall pick in 2015, Rodgers more than held his own in Double-A in his age-20 season. He went from the hitter's paradise of high Class A Lancaster to a pitcher's park in Hartford and still swatted six home runs in 38 games. He returned to Lancaster for the California League playoffs. Scouts laud Rodgers for his offensive abilities and project him to hit for both average and power. He has good bat-to-ball skills and above-average raw power to all fields, though he tends to be a little overaggressive in his approach and often leans out over the plate, making him susceptible to inside pitches. Defensively, Rodgers faces still questions about his future position. Managers think he needs to improve his range to stay at shortstop, while others want to see him enhance his internal clock on throws to first base. He's got enough range for second base and enough arm for third. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 150 20 39 5 0 6 17 8 36 0 2 .260 .323 .413 5. Francisco Mejia, C, Akron (Indians) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_indians77.jpg Age: 21 B-T: B-R Ht.: 5-10 Wt.: 180 Signed: Dominican Republic, 2012 Mejia showed standout abilities on both sides of the ball during the first half of the season, but he hit just .220 in the second while his OPS dropped nearly 250 points. At the plate, Mejia shows smooth, quick, balanced line-drive swings from both sides of the plate. He doesn't have standout power, but he has the potential for double-digit home runs when he finishes maturing physically. The Indians had him work on not expanding the strike zone but also wanted to retain his aggressiveness. Scouts viewed Mejia as one of the better defensive catchers in the EL initially, though managers who saw him late said he seemed disengaged and fatigued on defense. He even started one game at third base and will play more there in the Arizona Fall League. Mejia has a well above-average arm that he shows off on pickoff attempts, but he must polish his receiving and blocking technique. Most importantly, he needs to increase his stamina. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 347 52 103 21 2 14 52 24 53 7 2 .297 .346 .490 6. Scott Kingery, 2B, Reading (Phillies) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_phillies83.jpg Age: 23 B-T: R-R Ht.: 5-10 Wt.: 180 Drafted: Arizona, 2015 (2) For the first half of the season, Kingery was the unquestioned best player in the league. Like many Phillies players who advance to Reading, a notorious home run park, his power spiked in a big way. After hitting just eight home runs in his previous two seasons, Kingery slammed 18 in 69 games with Reading and led the minors in that category for a time. It wasn't just a Reading illusion—he produced similar rates of power on the road. Kingery has a chance to be an impact offensive player capable of double-digit homers and steals, thanks to plus speed. On defense, Kingery shows above-athleticism and quick hands needed to stay at second base. He played outfield for a time in college and could play there in the majors, if necessary. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 278 62 87 18 5 18 44 28 51 19 3 .313 .379 .608 7. Chris Shaw, OF/1B, Richmond (Giants) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_giants83.jpg Age: 23 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-4 Wt.: 235 Drafted: Boston College, 2015 (1) Shaw made a big impact in the short time he spent in the EL. He began his career as a first baseman, but the Giants began transitioning him to left field in Richmond and he stayed there at Triple-A Sacramento. Shaw's calling card is his big-time raw power. Managers raved about his batting-practice shows, with one comparing it to what he saw out of Joey Gallo years earlier. He's a tireless worker when it comes to maintaining his swing, and he projects as a thumper who can hit for average and power in the middle of the order. Managers who saw Shaw in the outfield in EL were surprised at his athleticism, though he can improve his throwing by adopting a longer, outfielder's arm stroke. His range is average laterally, but he still needs work going back and in on balls hit straight at him. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 133 16 40 10 0 6 29 18 26 0 0 .301 .390 .511 8. Jorge Mateo, SS/OF, Trenton (Yankees) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/3090.png Age: 22 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 190 Signed: Dominican Republic, 2012 Mateo did not reach Double-A until late June of his sixth pro season, but once he reached the EL all of the tools he was lauded for in the low minors shined. Mateo starred for Trenton until the Yankees packaged him, James Kaprielian and Dustin Fowler in a trade to the Athletics for Sonny Gray. Mateo's calling card is his top-of-the-scale speed. He needs to work on refining his approach at the plate to chase fewer pitches out of the zone, but at his best he's a leadoff-type hitter who can spray balls from gap to gap and create havoc on the basepaths. He has sneaky power and slugged better than .500 at both of his Double-A stops. His speed makes him one of those players who can manufacture runs without the benefit of a hit. Mateo has the plus range and strong arm to play shortstop, where Oakland kept him after the trade. His athleticism plays in the middle of the field. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 120 26 36 9 3 4 26 15 32 11 7 .300 .381 .525 9. Anthony Alford, OF, New Hampshire (Blue Jays) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_bluejays76.jpg Age: 23 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-1 Wt.: 215 Drafted: HS—Petal, Miss., 2012 (3) After a breakout 2015 season, Alford's career stalled a bit in his return to high Class A Dunedin in 2016 after he sustained a knee injury and later a concussion. Promoted to Double-A this season, he made his major league debut on May 19 but five days later broke his left wrist. When healthy, Alford showed the same athleticism that helped him earn a two-sport contract that allowed him to play college football at two stops before adopting baseball full-time in 2015. At the plate, he showed a combination of on-base skills, speed and gap power that evaluators think will mature into home run power as he grows as a hitter. Multiple EL managers compared Alford with Rondell White for his grace and athleticism in the outfield. His breaks on balls were so good, one manager said, that it looked like he got going before the ball was hit. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 245 41 76 14 0 5 24 35 45 18 3 .310 .406 .429 10. Miguel Andujar, 3B, Trenton (Yankees) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/3090.png Age: 22 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 215 Signed: Dominican Republic, 2011 Andujar started slowly in his return to Double-A and posted just a .668 OPS in April. He took off over the next two months after making a mechanical adjustment to his stride that helped him better lay off pitches out of the zone. From May 22 until he was promoted to Triple-A, he hit .416/.455/.634. Andujar has above-average raw power and should have the bat to profile at third base. Andujar's defense continues to improve, and he and Trenton defensive instructor Lino Diaz paid special attention to improving his footwork at third base. His hands are soft enough and his arm is strong enough, but he has a tendency to lower his arm slot, which leads his throws astray. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 253 30 79 23 1 7 52 12 38 2 3 .312 .342 .494 11. Justus Sheffield, LHP, Trenton (Yankees) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/3090.png Age: 21 B-T: L-L Ht.: 5-11 Wt.: 200 Drafted: HS—Tullahoma, Tenn., 2014 (1/Indians) Sheffield was part of the four-player package the Indians sent to Yankees for Andrew Miller in July 2016 and showed plenty of positive signs this season at Double-A around a lengthy disabled-list stint with a strained oblique. The lefthander sports a three-pitch mix fronted by a fastball that sits between 92-95 mph and touches as high as 97. He couples his fastball with a slider and changeup that waver in their consistency but project as plus for some scouts. His changeup is a touch behind his slider at this point, but he has shown the ability to command his entire arsenal. Evaluators are split on Sheffield's future. Some see him as a No. 2 starter, while others see a back-end starter or a potentially dominant reliever based on his shorter stature and durability questions. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 7 6 3.18 17 17 0 93 94 43 33 14 33 82 .258 12. Domingo Acevedo, RHP, Trenton (Yankees) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/3090.png Age: 23 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-7 Wt.: 250 Signed: Dominican Republic, 2013 One of the most surprising things about Acevedo, given his massive 6-foot-7 frame and delivery, is his ability to command his fastball. He walked just 1.9 batters per nine innings at Trenton this season. Opposing managers marveled at the way Acevedo can place his fastball, which parks in the mid-90s and can touch as high as 98 mph, nearly anywhere within the strike zone. His mid-80s changeup is his go-to offspeed pitch and can flash plus. His low-80s slider is below-average and still needs to be refined. The Yankees worked hard with Acevedo on commanding his fastball in the zone and learning to throw his offspeed pitches for strikes. He tends to throw mostly fastballs, so the Yankees mandated he go offspeed in certain counts, even against his instincts. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 5 1 2.38 14 14 0 79 65 23 21 8 17 82 .223 13. Michael Chavis, 3B, Portland (Red Sox) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_redsox83.jpg Age: 22 B-T: R-R Ht.: 5-10 Wt.: 210 Drafted: HS—Marietta, Ga., 2014 (1) Portland didn't have to wait long after Rafael Devers was promoted to Triple-A Pawtucket to find a replacement at third base. Chavis got the bump from high Class A Salem on June 22 and immediately made an impact. Chavis swatted 14 home runs in half a season in Double-A and finished the year with 31, tied for fifth place in the minors. His power is obvious, but managers around the league did find holes in his swing. In particular, they noted a weakness on hard stuff inside and offspeed pitches in general, which could compromise his chance to hit for average. Chavis has improved defensively at third base but is not a lock to stick there despite having arm strength suitable for the position. Given his background as a shortstop and his athleticism, he faces a possible move to second base. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 248 39 62 18 0 14 39 20 56 1 0 .250 .310 .492 14. Tanner Scott, LHP, Bowie (Orioles) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_orioles84.jpg Age: 23 B-T: R-L Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 230 Drafted: Howard (Texas) JC, 2014 (6) Though he made 24 starts this year and not a single relief appearance, Scott is going to be a reliever. He lasted into the fourth inning only once all season and by design typically went exactly three. The Orioles are working to develop Scott as a multi-inning relief ace by having him work as a starter to use all his pitches in a variety of situations. He works primarily with two pitches—a fastball that sits between 98-100 mph and a devastating sweeping slider. He has a changeup as well, but leans heavily on the first two pitches. Scott's command and control grade as below-average—he walked 46 hitters in 69 innings—but managers around the league noted his misses weren't often by much. He needs to throw more first-pitch strikes instead of having to battle back after ball one. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 0 2 2.22 24 24 0 69 45 17 17 2 46 87 .188 15. Ryan McMahon, 1B/2B, Hartford (Rockies) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_rockies82.jpg Age: 22 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 185 Drafted: HS—Santa Ana, Calif., 2013 (2) Until this year, McMahon had played predominantly third base with some first base thrown in. The Rockies keyed on his athleticism, agility and good-but-not great power when they shifted him to second base on occasion at Hartford. Though he has some trouble with fastballs on the inside half, McMahon profiles as a line-drive type of hitter whose power could play up with Coors Field as his home park. He leveled out his swing plane this season and improved his contact rate and plate coverage. His speed grades as below-average. McMahon is understandably raw at second base and still has to improve his footwork and the finer points of the position. He is most comfortable at first base, where he started the majority of the time this year. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 181 28 59 16 2 6 32 20 39 7 0 .326 .390 .536 16. D.J. Stewart, OF, Bowie (Orioles) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_orioles87.jpg Age: 23 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 230 Drafted: Florida State, 2015 (1) The lone EL hitter to hit 20 home runs and steal 20 bases this season, Stewart had a redemptive season after struggling in 2016. He's deceptively athletic for his 230-pound frame with fringe-average speed to go with his strength. Stewart has incredibly quick hands and a strong knowledge of the strike zone, which helped him tap into his power more often this season. He also has adjusted his batting stance since college, going from a deep squat with a stiff front leg to something more traditional. He's a below-average defender in left field with a below-average arm, but managers around the league saw a little improvement later in the year. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 457 80 127 26 2 21 79 65 87 20 4 .278 .378 .481 17. Erick Fedde, RHP, Harrisburg (Nationals) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/3081.png Age: 24 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-4 Wt.: 180 Drafted: Nevada-Las Vegas, 2014 (1) In a season in which he made his big league debut, Fedde pitched for two affiliates and in two different roles. He began the year in the Harrisburg rotation, moved to the bullpen in late May (in case he was needed in the Nationals' highly combustible big league bullpen), and then shifted back to the rotation at Triple-A in early July. As a starter, Fedde works with a full four-pitch arsenal with his fastball and slider as his two best weapons. His low- to mid-90s fastball has touched 97 mph and features armside sink and bore, His slider is an average pitch that projects as plus, and his changeup has average potential as well. Fedde needs to refine his command and should battle for a spot in the big leagues if he doesn't return to Triple-A in 2018. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 3 3 3.04 17 7 0 56 45 21 19 4 18 54 .215 18. Cedric Mullins, OF, Bowie (Orioles) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_orioles84.jpg Age: 22 B-T: B-L Ht.: 5-8 Wt.: 175 Drafted: Campbell, 2015 (13) Along with Austin Hays and D.J. Stewart, Mullins helped make the Bowie outfield the best in the EL in the second half of the season. Mullins skipped high Class A Frederick and rewarded the Orioles for their confidence around stints on the disabled list with left hamstring pulls. Managers around the league raved about Mullins' play in center field, which included plenty of highlight-reel catches to rob hitters of extra bases. He played right field at times this year to help get Hays reps in center field and handled the experience well. EL managers also noted big-time bat speed with more power than expected considering Mullins' compact frame. The switch-hitter made plenty of contact this year and has above-average speed to leg out infield hits. Though he swiped just nine bases in 16 chances this year, managers around the league expect double-digit totals as he matures. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 309 53 82 19 1 13 37 27 58 9 7 .265 .319 .460 19. Beau Burrows, RHP, Erie (Tigers) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_tigers78.jpg Age: 20 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 200 Drafted: HS—Weatherford, Texas, 2015 (1) In a system now brimming with power arms, including 2017 first-rounder Alex Faedo and August trade pickup Franklin Perez, Burrows stands as one of the best. In his second full season, he made it to the EL, where he was one of the youngest arms on the circuit. Burrows' fastball sits in the low 90s and peaks in the high 90s in short bursts. What makes the fastball so effective is its excellent late finish, which one scout likened a rising fastball. He's also adept at using his fastball both above and below the batter's hands depending on the situation. Burrows added a slider to his 12-to-6 curveball, but both pitches need to be sharpened, as does his changeup. His athleticism bodes well for his ability to refine his offspeed pitches. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 6 4 4.72 15 15 0 76 79 40 40 5 33 75 .269 20. Christin Stewart, OF, Erie (Tigers) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_tigers76.jpg Age: 23 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 205 Drafted: Tennessee, 2015 (1) Stewart earned renown as an amateur for his power, which has translated completely to pro ball. Last season he hit 30 home runs before following up with 28 this season to tie for 15th in the minors. He's made adjustments to keep his bat in the hitting zone longer and gets to his power consistently thanks in part to strong plate discipline, which also produces walks. Stewart hit just .227/.301/.396 with nine of his 28 homers on the road and away from a cozy home park in Erie. He will have to continue to hit because he has minimal defensive value. Opposing managers saw well below-average speed and range in left field, as well as tentative jumps and a below-average arm. Read more at http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/2017-eastern-league-top-20-prospects/#EuRmILOVyutbokF4.99

1. Sixto Sanchez, RHP, Lakewood (Phillies) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_phillies80.jpg Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-0. Wt.: 185. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2015. The Phillies didn't want to stretch Sanchez out too much in 2017. He was kept on a tight pitch limit while in Lakewood–he never topped 80 pitches and usually was held to between 65-75. But he still managed to go five or more innings nearly every time out because of how efficient he was. Sanchez is the rare 18-year-old who combines exceptional stuff (95-100 mph fastball) and advanced control. His command in the zone continues to improve, but his ability to throw strikes is already above-average. Shorter pitchers (Sanchez is 6-foot) often have a problem with home runs because their fastball lacks plane. It's not been an issue for Sanchez, as he's allowed one home run in three pro seasons. Sanchez's curveball, slider and changeup all show flashes of being above-average pitches, but none of the trio is yet there. That's about the biggest complaint anyone lodged against one of baseball's best young pitching prospects. His combination of stuff and control makes him much more advanced than the average teenager. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO 5 3 2.41 13 13 0 67 46 19 18 1 9 64 2. Estevan Florial, OF, Charleston (Yankees) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/3090.png Age: 19. B-T: L-R. Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 189. Signed: Haiti, 2015. A clever pitcher with a plan could get Florial out, as he can be induced to expand his strike zone to chase. But there was no more feared hitter in the league, because if the pitcher left anything hittable in the strike zone, no one in the league could do more to punish him. He could line a single, smash a double or crank a home run. And with his plus-plus speed, he could do damage on the basepaths as well. Before being promoted to high Class A Tampa, Florial excelled long enough to finish fourth in the league in batting, third in slugging and third in on-base percentage. Florial has excellent bat speed with the power to be a 20-plus home run hitter in the big leagues. He is a 70 runner and provides above-average defense in center field. He's a higher-risk, high ceiling prospect who has further refinement to come, but special tools. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 344 64 102 21 5 11 43 41 124 17 7 .297 .373 .483 3. Leody Taveras, OF, Hickory (Rangers) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_rangers82.jpg Age: 18. B-T: B-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 185. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2015. Taveras' production was modest, but that wasn't shocking considering he played much of the year as an 18-year-old. Evaluators still love the swing and expect in the long-term he'll be an impact up-the-middle defender and bat. "He's a runner with a great swing and a plus arm," said one pro scout. "He has bat speed and he's a solid defender who stays in center field." Taveras should add more power as he matures, but his all-fields approach portends higher batting averages in his future as well. A switch-hitter who showed more power from the left side, scouts thought his righthanded swing was more fluid, so he should be fine long-term against both righties and lefties. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 522 73 130 20 7 8 50 47 92 20 6 .249 .312 .360 4. Alec Hansen, RHP, Kannapolis (White Sox) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_whitesox85.jpg Age: 22. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-7. Wt.: 235. Drafted: Oklahoma, 2016 (2). Hansen returned to Kannapolis after joining the Intimidators for a two-start cameo to wrap up 2016. He showed improved control and confidence this year, dominating in his 13 starts before being promoted. He struck out 15 against Greensboro in one start and reached double digits in strikeouts in three of his final six starts for Kannapolis. Hansen dominated with a 93-95 mph fastball that generated swings and misses, but his biggest out pitchers were his pair of breaking balls. Most scouts liked his curveball the best, as he can tighten it up to a 78-80 mph tight power curve or loosen up for a get-over early count strike. His slider was less consistent but also flashed plus. His changeup is a fringy fourth pitch. Not everyone was enamored with Hansen. His mound presence put off some evaluators, and his velocity sometimes wavered later in games. Considering he was bumped from the Oklahoma rotation in 2016, he's come a long way in the past year. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO 7 3 2.48 13 13 0 73 57 27 20 3 23 92 5. Cristian Pache, OF, Rome (Braves) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_braves82.jpg Age: 18. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 185. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2015. In center field, Pache was a fearless omnivore who gobbled up bleeders just beyond shortstop while capably tracking back on balls to the warning track. He led the league's outfielders in total chances, range factor, assists and double plays. He's an elite center fielder defensively with top of the scale speed and a 60 arm to go with his 70 glove. "He's the most aggressive outfielder I've seen all year," said one scout. At the plate, Pache has more work to do. His hands work well and he has good bat-to-ball skills, but his long swing will limit his ability to hit for average. He has very little power now and doesn't try to lift the ball, but his frame, especially his broad shoulders, leads scouts to believe he could have at least 10-12 home run power down the road. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 469 60 132 13 8 0 42 39 104 32 14 .281 .335 .343 6. Ian Anderson, RHP, Rome (Braves) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_braves79.jpg Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-3. Wt.: 170. Drafted: HS—Clifton Park, N.Y., 2016 (1). The third pick in the 2016 draft cruised through Sally League lineups regularly, but you won't find his name anywhere among the league's pitching leaders. Coming off a 2016 season where he threw few innings because he's from a cold-weather state (New York), the Braves kept a very close watch on Anderson's innings–he threw only 21.2 innings from July 1 until the season's end. But when he did pitch, Anderson often dominated with a 92-95 mph fastball and a plus curveball as well as an improved changeup that now flashes average. Anderson changes a batter's eye level regularly as he works up in the zone with four-seam fastballs then buries a big-breaking curve. Anderson's changeup is less developed, but it did flash as average at its best, which is a step forward from last year. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO 4 5 3.14 20 20 0 83 69 30 29 0 43 101 7. Andres Gimenez, SS, Columbia (Mets) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_mets80.jpg Age: 18. B-T: L-R. Ht.: 6-0. Wt.: 165. Signed: Venezuela, 2015. While fans were streaming into Spirit Communications Park to watch Tim Tebow, they also got a chance to see a potentially key part of the Mets' future. Gimenez was one of the youngest players in the league (a full 11 years younger than Tebow), but he more than held his own at the plate with a short, contact-oriented swing. Some managers were shocked when they figured out he was only 18, as he has an approach and plan at the plate of a more experienced hitter. Gimenez makes his biggest impact right now defensively. He's a twitchy athlete and an easy plus runner. He's an above-average defender with a quick release and an accurate if average arm. He does already show the ability to be accurate from multiple arm slots, a prerequisite for shortstops. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 347 50 92 9 4 4 31 28 61 14 8 .265 .346 .349 8. Carter Kieboom, SS, Hagerstown (Nationals) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_nationals80.jpg Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 190. Drafted: HS—Marietta, Ga., 2016 (1). A significant hamstring injury almost wiped out Kieboom's season. He missed three months, but did return to action in mid-August showing some rust but logging just enough at-bats to qualify for the Top 20. But pre-injury, Kieboom showed the potential to be a middle-infielder with above-average offensive production. He has plenty of bat speed, the advanced baseball IQ that could be expected out of a baseball rat from a baseball family (his brother Spencer is a catcher in the Nationals' system). Pre-injury, he used the entire field and showed excellent contact ability. Defensively, Kieboom draws more mixed reviews. His arm and first step are fringy for a shortstop, but his hands and actions are fine. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 179 36 53 12 0 8 26 28 40 2 2 .296 .400 .497 9. Colton Welker, 3B, Asheville (Rockies) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_rockies84.jpg Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 195. Drafted: HS—Parkland, Fla., 2016 (4). Welker's slash line was helped a good bit by the Tourists' hitter-friendly home park where he hit .400/.449/.584. But scouts were impressed by Welker's approach, his bat control, timing and his knowledge of the strike zone. And he did hit .302/.355/.419 on the road, so he wasn't just a McCormick Field creation. Welker's power should develop as he matures, as he does have gap power now. But he's a hit-first line-drive third baseman.Defensively Welker needs to improve his footwork but his hands work well and he has an above-average accurate arm. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 254 32 89 18 1 6 33 18 42 5 7 .350 .401 .500 10. Adonis Medina, RHP, Lakewood (Phillies) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_phillies80.jpg Age: 20. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 185. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2014. The Phillies had a very deep Lakewood rotation last year, but it was even deeper this year thanks to Sanchez, Medina, JoJo Romero and Ranger Suarez. Medina took the biggest step forward of that group as he refined his breaking ball, which helped his excellent fastball play even better. Medina's fastball is a 93-97 mph monster with outstanding sink. His slider shows lots of promise. It needs more power, but it's showing the potential to be an above-average pitch. He also throws a loopier, slower curveball and a promising changeup. But it's Medina's fastball that primarily carved up hitters in 2017. The 20-year-old finished third in the league with 133 strikeouts. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO 4 9 3.01 22 22 0 120 103 47 40 7 39 133 11. Bryse Wilson, RHP, Rome (Braves) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_braves73.jpg Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 225. Drafted: HS—Hillsborough, N.C., 2016 (4). Wilson's 91-95 mph sinking fastball dominated the SAL. He aggressively worked in and out, showing advanced control and command of the pitch. Generally he kept the ball down in the zone and finished second in the league in ERA (2.50), third in strikeouts (139) and fourth in opponent average (.211). Scouts loved his athleticism and his aggressive makeup on the mound and consistently rated him as a better prospect than Rome's equally successful lefty Joey Wentz. Some scouts don't really like Wilson's arm action, which includes a wrap in his takeaway, but it hasn't kept him from throwing strikes. His curveball is a 12-to-6 breaker, but it is more of a power pitch with modest depth and his changeup is fringe-average. Some scouts don't believe he'll ever be able to consistently throw his breaking ball because of his arm action, but others believe he will find a breaking ball because of his feel for pitching. He can already locate all three of his pitches. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO 10 7 2.50 26 26 0 137 105 45 38 8 37 139 12. Micker Adolfo, OF, Kannapolis (White Sox) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_whitesox79.jpg Age: 20. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-3. Wt.: 200. Signed: Dominican Republic, 2013. Adolfo easily wins the SAL award for most improved. Lost at the plate in a half season in Kannapolis in 2016, Adolfo improved his stance with a wider base, calmed down his pre-swing movement and stopped swinging at every curve and slider that bounced in front of the plate. Adolfo is still an aggressive hitter who still needs further strike-zone refinement, but that shouldn't discount the significant improvements he made this year. If he can continue to make further refinements he is a prototype right fielder with a near top-of-the-scale arm, average foot speed and plus raw power. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 424 60 112 28 2 16 68 31 149 2 0 .264 .331 .453 13. Daniel Johnson, OF, Hagerstown (Nationals) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_nationals68.jpg Age: 22. B-T: L-L. Ht.: 5-10. Wt.: 185. Drafted: New Mexico, 2016 (5). Johnson was one of the stars of the first half of the SAL season. He finished tied for second in home runs (17) despite being promoted out of the league in late July. Surgery has improved Johnson's eyesight and its effects were apparent. He showed the hand-eye coordination to spoil pitchers' pitches and work deep counts to find a pitch he could drive. His swing is compact, but he has the strength and bat speed to drive the ball. Johnson is a plus runner, but he doesn't read the ball off the bat well enough yet to project as a center fielder. He's fine in right field with a plus arm that plays very well. His speed plays better on the bases than out of the batter's box. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 327 61 98 16 4 17 52 22 70 12 9 .300 .361 .529 14. Joey Wentz, LHP, Rome (Braves) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_braves73.jpg Age: 19. B-T: L-L. Ht.: 6-5. Wt.: 210. Drafted: HS—Prairie Village, Kan., 2016 (1s). Wentz dominated the SAL, finishing fourth in the league in ERA (2.60), strikeouts (152) and opponent average (.209). Considering his pedigree—he's a supplemental first-round pick who signed for first-round money—one would be fair to expect him to rank higher. Even as they watched him dominate, scouts were rarely blown away by Wentz's stuff. His plus changeup was too much for all but the most advanced SAL hitters, but lefties with a good changeup often have their way at low Class A. What Wentz didn't show was another above-average pitch. His 89-93 mph fastball has good plane and he locates it well, but scouts saw it as an average offering. His breaking ball is well below-average right now. What concerned scouts the most is that they didn't see all that much projection. Even with no further development, Wentz has a shot to be a back-end starter, but he needs to add more arm speed and velocity to project as a front-end starter. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO 8 3 2.60 26 26 0 132 99 44 38 4 46 152 15. Riley Pint, RHP, Asheville (Rockies) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_rockies81.jpg Age: 19. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-4. Wt.: 195. Drafted: HS—Overland Park, Kan., 2016 (1). The No. 4 overall pick in 2016, Pint is a work in progress. He struggles to repeat his delivery consistently and he's behind in counts too often. Even with well above-average velocity—he generally sat 94-97 mph—hitters rarely were blown away by Pint and they often took comfortable swings. The Rockies wanted Pint to focus on fastball command and improving his changeup, so they largely shelved his potentially plus breaking ball. But he doesn't repeat his delivery well enough to consistently locate the heater yet. He leaves his fastball up in the zone too often and hitters generally took advantage. His final outing of the season put a poor cap on his year—he gave up nine runs without recording an out. Pint still has the makings of a flamethrowing front-end starter, but he's got to tone down his delivery, stay back over the rubber and improve his command and control by at least two grades. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO 2 11 5.42 22 22 0 93 96 67 56 3 59 79 16. Jake Burger, 3B, Kannapolis (White Sox) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_whitesox85.jpg Age: 21. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 210. Drafted: Missouri State, 2017 (1). Burger doesn't really pass the eye test. At first glance he doesn't look like he's athletic enough to stick at third base. But the more coaches and scouts watched him, the more impressed they became. He's faster than he looks (he turned in average run times to first base) and he made all the plays at third base, with plenty of arm strength for the position. Burger has some stiffness, but he's strong and muscular and he has legitimate plus power. His power comes from a combination of strength and bat speed. He looks to pull anything on the inner half right now, but he'll have to adjust to show he can do something when pitchers nibble on the outer half. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 181 21 49 9 2 4 27 13 28 0 1 .271 .335 .409 17. Mickey Moniak, OF, Lakewood (Phillies) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_phillies83.jpg Age: 19. B-T: L-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 185. Drafted: HS—Carlsbad, Calif., 2016 (1). Scouts had a hard time figuring out what to think of Moniak, which is understandable after the top pick in the 2016 draft hit .236/.284/.341, ranking him among the least-productive hitters in the league. That's a concern because Moniak's hit tool is vital to his potential, because he is less physical with less power projection than most top picks. Scouts generally graded his future power potential as either a 30 or 40 on the 20-80 scouting scale with his narrow shoulders likely limiting his ability to get significantly bigger and stronger. Moniak is a plus runner who should be able to stay in center field with a lot of work, but the consistency of his reads needs to improve. Despite his lofty defensive reputation as an amateur, some pro evaluators graded him as a below-average defender. But Moniak's biggest improvement will have to come at the plate. Scouts like his swing and his quick hands, but he rarely drove the ball this year and hit a large number of easy-out ground balls. Scouts still see Moniak as a future big leaguer, but there's much less confidence in him being an impact player. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 466 53 110 22 6 5 44 28 109 11 7 .236 .284 .341 18. Blake Rutherford, OF, Kannapolis (White Sox) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_whitesox82.jpg Age: 20. B-T: L-L. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 192. Drafted: HS—Canoga Park, Calif., 2016 (1). Much like fellow 2016 prep first-rounder Mickey Moniak, Rutherford's first full season was a disappointment. Unlike Moniak, Rutherford had to deal with a midseason trade as well. The Yankees traded him to the White Sox in a deal that sent Todd Frazier, David Robertson and Tommy Kahnle to New York. Rutherford's overall stats suffered because he ran out of gas in August, when he hit .205/.287/.244. But scouts liked his mature approach at the plate and saw a future everyday corner outfielder with excellent instincts, feel for the game and an ability to get on base and hit for average. Rutherford played all three outfield spots in Charleston and Kannapolis, but evaluators were confident that his fringe-average speed would eventually lead to him to the corners. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 396 52 103 25 2 2 35 38 76 10 4 .260 .326 .348 19. Sheldon Neuse, SS/3B, Hagerstown (Nationals) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/3081.png Age: 22. B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-0. Wt.: 195. Drafted: Oklahoma, 2016 (2). Neuse got to showcase his versatility when the third baseman slid to shortstop after Carter Kieboom injured his hamstring. While stretched at shortstop, Neuse has a strong arm and a quick first step. He is a polished third baseman with good footwork and above-average range. He can also play second base and has excellent instincts. Neuse's best work is done at the plate, where he shows plus raw power and solid feel for hitting as well. After the Athletics acquired him in the Sean Doolittle deal, they pushed him more aggressively and he hit in high Class A and Double-A. Neuse is a fringe-average runner, but he knows how to take advantage of what's given to him, which explains how he swiped 12 bags for Hagerstown. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 292 40 85 19 3 9 51 25 66 12 5 .291 .349 .469 20. Brian Miller, OF, Greensboro (Marlins) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/1027.png Miami MarlinsAge: 22. B-T: L-R. Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 185. Drafted: North Carolina, 2017 (1s). A supplemental first-round in June out of North Carolina, Miller moved just an hour west from Chapel Hill to Greensboro and kept on hitting like he was still in the Atlantic Coast Conference. He had the third-best batting average (.322) in the league from July 1 until the season ended. A plus runner who looked very comfortable in center field, Miller has an easy swing with a lot of fluidity and good bat control. It's a very opposite-field heavy approach right now, which prevented him from showing the power that's expected of most everyone in 2017. Miller's defense, speed and contact ability give him a pretty high floor as a backup outfielder, but he'll have to start pulling the ball and using his lower half more to hit for more power to be a regular. Read more at http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/2017-south-atlantic-league-top-20-prospects/#YSB2OMYxZbRr3X5S.99

Slow board day....South Atlantic top 20...

Interesting article on MLBTR on TJS injuries. https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2017/09/predicting-tommy-john-surgeries-the-2017-update.html

The Jays want Pham

Gross

I feel like Jaysfan4ever with these walls of text.

1. Ronald Acuna, OF, Gwinnett (Braves) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_braves83.jpg BravesAge: 19 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 180 Signed: Venezuela, 2014 Acuna began the year in high Class A before pushing all the way to Gwinnett and getting better at every level. He has a mature hitting approach, tantalizing tools and all-star potential. Acuna's bat speed is elite, which will produce above-average power or better. He has excellent feel to hit and the ability to drive the ball to all fields. More power could come as Acuna continues to develop physically, with 30 home runs a possibility. On top of that, Acuna is currently a plus-plus runner, though he needs to become a more efficient basestealer and improve his decision-making on throws. He has plus arm strength from center field, and evaluators have pegged him as an above-average to plus defender. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 221 38 76 14 2 9 33 17 48 11 6 .344 .393 .548 2. Yoan Moncada, 2B, Charlotte (White Sox) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_whitesox85.jpg 3ds_whitesox85Age: 22 B-T: B-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 205 Signed: Cuba, 2015 (Red Sox) Moncada showed power, patience and speed at Charlotte in his first year in the White Sox system. While that sort of offense had not fully translated to the big league level following his July 19 callup, he has some of the best tools in baseball. Moncada's primary issue moving forward will be one of makeup and mindset. Multiple evaluators questioned his mentality and effort level, noting lackadaisical play and preparation. While he has plus power and speed, his ability to hit for average is an open question. Moncada's strikeout rate surged this season, and some scouts don't like the switch-hitter's swing from the right side. Scouts were impressed with Moncada's defensive progress at second base, noting his improving his actions and instincts. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 309 57 87 9 3 12 36 49 102 17 8 .282 .377 .447 3. Rhys Hoskins, 1B/OF, Lehigh Valley (Phillies) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_phillies83.jpg Age: 24 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 225 Drafted: Sacramento State, 2014 (5) A year after cracking 38 home runs in Double-A, Hoskins continued to rake as the IL's top power hitter. He was leading the league with 29 home runs when the Phillies called him up on Aug. 10 and finished as the IL leader for on-base percentage (.385), slugging (.581) and RBIs (91). In the majors, he became the fastest player ever to reach 10 homers—just 17 games. Evaluators were impressed with Hoskins' approach at the plate, both in terms of feel for the strike zone—a career low 16 percent strikeouts—and ability to make adjustments. The advanced timing in his load alleviated previous concerns he would only be a mistake hitter. His power should play as plus-plus because he drives the ball to all fields. Cited as being anywhere from adequate to a good defender at first base, Hoskins lacks the fluidity and athleticism to be an impact glove at his natural position or in left field. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 401 78 114 24 4 29 91 64 75 4 2 .284 .385 .581 4. Brent Honeywell, RHP, Durham (Rays) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_rays5.jpg 3ds_rays5Age: 22 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 180 Drafted: Walters State (Tenn.) JC, 2014 (2s) Honeywell used a five-pitch mix to great success in his first stint at Triple-A. He ran up a 4.91 ERA through his first 12 starts but lowered that to 2.35 in his final 12 starts as he focused on getting a more consistent release point and better extension on his fastball. Honeywell sits 92-93 mph and hits 96 with his fastball and backs it up with a wide array of secondary weapons. Known for his screwball, he throws the pitch just a few times per game and instead uses a plus changeup as his go-to secondary. He can throw it in any count, whether for called strikes on the black or for chases out of the zone. Honeywell has two breaking balls: a slider with potential to be an out pitch and an early-count curveball. Honeywell profiles as a No. 3 starter or perhaps better if he can improve his pacing and hold his velocity deeper into games. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 12 8 3.64 24 24 0 124 130 55 50 11 31 152 .268 5. Willy Adames, SS, Durham (Rays) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_rays5.jpg 3ds_rays5Age: 22 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 200 Signed: Dominican Republic, 2012 (Tigers) Adames advanced to Triple-A and produced a near carbon copy of his 2016 season in Double-A, with similar rates for strikeouts, walks and power production. Adames got out of the gate cold by hitting .230 with a .653 OPS through May before shortening his stance to avoid lunging. From June 1 to the end, he hit .303/.389/.455 with eight of his 10 home runs. Adames doesn't stand out for his power or speed—both are fringe-average to average—but his hitting approach and defensive ability should allow him to be a dynamic player. The best defensive shortstop with the best infield arm in the IL, Adames will be a plus defender in the majors, according to evaluators. His arm flashes plus and his infield actions and coachability are separators. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 506 74 140 30 5 10 62 65 132 11 5 .277 .360 .415 6. Ozzie Albies, 2B/SS, Gwinnett (Braves) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_braves83.jpg BravesAge: 20 B-T: B-R Ht.: 5-9 Wt.: 160 Signed: Curacao, 2014 Albies made positive defensive strides at second base while showing that his poor first look at Triple-A last season probably was a case of growing pains. He earned his first big league callup in August. The switch-hitting Albies excelled as a righthanded batter (.970 OPS, 12 percent strikeouts) but faces serious questions about his lefthanded swing (.707, 20 percent) in a performance trend that has held steady in his career. Still, IL managers were bullish on his batting potential and think he's young enough to figure out the holes in his swing. Some believe he could grow into average power while being a menace on the basepaths. A plus runner, Albies stole 21 bases at a 91 percent success rate in the IL for his most efficient season yet. At second base he shows the above-average arm, plus quickness and plus range to be a plus defender. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 411 67 117 21 8 9 41 28 90 21 2 .285 .330 .440 7. Bradley Zimmer, OF, Columbus (Indians) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_indians83.jpg Age: 24 B-T: L-L Ht.: 6-5 Wt.: 220 Drafted: San Francisco, 2014 (1) Zimmer slugged just .308 in the IL in 2016 during a 37-game trial, but he bounced back with Columbus this year to earn a callup to the Indians in mid-May. Zimmer made more contact this season to enable him to tap into his power, but because of a hitch in his load, he probably will strike out frequently (30 percent this season) and be a below-average hitter. He does most of his damage versus righthanders and offers little power in same-side matchups. Zimmer offers significant value as a plus-plus defender in center field and as a plus-plus runner—he went 27-for-31 on stolen bases attempts between Triple-A and the majors—giving him a high floor as at least a strong-side platoon player. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 126 22 37 11 2 5 14 14 43 9 3 .294 .371 .532 8. Scott Kingery, 2B, Lehigh Valley (Phillies) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_phillies83.jpg Age: 23 B-T: R-R Ht.: 5-10 Wt.: 180 Drafted: Arizona, 2015 (2) Kingery was the most impressive pure hitter in the IL for some managers, and while his short, compact stroke and high average was not surprising, his power production certainly was. Kingery hit 26 home runs between Double-A Reading and Lehigh Valley, blowing away his previous full-season high of five in 2016. Going to a homer-friendly park in Philadelphia will help him maintain his power gains and have at least average power. Managers rave about Kingery's baseball IQ. He's a smart and proficient baserunner, has great defensive instincts and a good approach at the plate, though he could stand to draw more walks. Some evaluators give Kingery a chance to be a plus defensive second baseman, while others say solid-average, but his offensive potential could make him an impact player. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 265 41 78 11 3 8 21 13 58 10 2 .294 .337 .449 9. Chance Adams, RHP, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (Yankees) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/3090.png Age: 23 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-1 Wt.: 210 Drafted: Dallas Baptist, 2015 (5) Adams continued to show advanced feel for a four-pitch mix during his first stint at Triple-A, where his transition from college reliever to pro starter successfully continued. He threw a career high 150.1 innings this season, only adding to his case as a high-probability mid-rotation starter. Adams uses a fastball that ranges from 91-95 mph and has good movement, a short, downward-breaking curveball and a firm slider that he frequently buries and can use as an out pitch. Additionally, he's shown feel for a changeup with some armside fade. One evaluator said that between Adams' four offerings, he has a chance for three above-average pitches with above-average control. Another was impressed with how well he held his stuff and delivery during the season. He drew comparisons with Bud Norris and Jordan Zimmermann. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 11 5 2.89 21 21 0 115 81 39 37 9 43 103 .197 10. J.P. Crawford, SS, Lehigh Valley (Phillies) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_phillies83.jpg Age: 22 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 180 Drafted: HS—Lakewood, Calif., 2013 (1) Crawford started the season so poorly, hitting .194 with a .565 OPS through 56 games, that the Phillies game him a 10-day mental break. The plan worked. From June 20 onward he hit .280/.381/.522 in the IL with 13 of his 15 home runs. He made his big league debut on Sept. 5. Managers and scouts alike noticed poor defense and body language from Crawford during the first half, which seemed to stem from his prolonged batting slump. An above-average defender at shortstop with an above-average arm, he committed 12 errors through his first 66 games but just five through his last 61, which included time at second and third base in August. Crawford is an above-average hitter and runner, and though his power is just fringe-average, his plate discipline is a separator, as indicated by a league-leading 79 walks. He draws nearly as many walks as strikeouts and has a career .367 on-base percentage in the minors. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 474 75 115 20 6 15 63 79 97 5 4 .243 .351 .548 11. Sean Newcomb, LHP, Gwinnett (Braves) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_braves83.jpg BravesAge: 24 B-T: L-L Ht.: 6-5 Wt.: 255 Drafted: Hartford, 2014 (1/Angels) The Braves called up Newcomb on June 10 after he struck out 11.5 batters per nine innings through 11 IL starts. He continued to miss bats—and hand out walks—in Atlanta. IL evaluators were impressed with Newcomb's 94-97 mph fastball and 78-82 curveball—cited by most as plus pitches—and one manager said the control he showed against his team was better than the numbers would suggest. One scout even evoked the name Jon Lester as a high-end comparison. Newcomb's future hinges on improving his well below-average control as well as the development of his changeup, which showed flashes of promise in the IL and induced myriad swings and misses in the majors. A future as a high-leverage reliever is possible if he doesn't improve in these areas. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 3 3 2.97 11 11 0 58 45 23 19 3 33 74 .212 12. Tyler Glasnow, RHP, Indianapolis (Pirates) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_pirates81.jpg 3ds_pirates81Age: 24 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-8 Wt.: 220 Drafted: HS—Santa Clarita, Calif., 2011 (5) Few prospects polarize scouts like Glasnow, who has two power weapons to perplex IL competition—he ranked third with 140 strikeouts in just 15 starts—but enough rough edges to run up a 7.45 ERA in 12 big league starts this year before the Pirates demoted him on June 15. Glasnow sits 96-100 mph with his fastball and pairs it with a devastating 80-83 curveball along with a well below-average 90-92 changeup. Despite big stuff, he has been hit hard at the big league level over parts of two seasons because he lacks command. The 6-foot-8 Glasnow struggles to consistently repeat his mechanics, a career-long concern, and if he isn't able to streamline his delivery, he is likely destined for the bullpen. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 9 2 1.93 15 15 0 93 57 21 20 6 32 140 .176 13. Lucas Giolito, RHP, Charlotte (White Sox) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_whitesox85.jpg 3ds_whitesox85Age: 23 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-6 Wt.: 255 Drafted: HS—Los Angeles, 2014 (1/Nationals) Giolito continues to frustrate evaluators because he routinely flashes up to three plus pitches and seems to have his control and delivery figured out—only to lapse and lose the strike zone during his next outing. The inconsistency is particularly jarring for a ballyhooed first-rounder like Giolito, but he did rank fourth in IL this season with 9.4 strikeouts per nine innings. Giolito's pitched more in the low 90s this season than the mid- to upper-90s of the past. He mixed in a low- to mid-80s slider, mid- to upper-70s curveball and a changeup that flashed above-average. Several evaluators said that the lower fastball velocity allowed Giolito to get a better feel for commanding the pitch, and a more simplified delivery could help as well. Still others question his athleticism and ability to consistently repeat his mechanics at 6-foot-6 and wonder if he'd be better suited to a bullpen role. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 6 10 4.48 24 24 0 129 122 66 64 17 59 134 .253 14. Jacob Faria, RHP, Durham (Rays) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_rays5.jpg 3ds_rays5Age: 24 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-4 Wt.: 235 Drafted: HS—Cerritos, Calif., 2011 (10) Faria earned his first big league callup after 11 starts with Durham, where he pitched off of an impressive fastball-changeup combination to great success. Faria's stuff isn't overpowering. He sits 92-94 mph with his fastball and throws a pair of fringe-average breaking balls and a plus changeup in the low 80s that is his separator. His changeup baffles even big league batters, who can't touch the pitcher whether in the zone or not. Faria also tinkered with an upper-80s cutter that showed promise during his time with Durham. Most evaluators peg Faria as a future No. 4 starter, but he's shown a habit of out-pitching his expectations and peripherals based on his deception and feel for sequencing. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 6 1 3.07 11 11 0 59 44 23 20 7 22 84 .204 15. Miguel Andujar, 3B, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (Yankees) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/3090.png Age: 22 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 215 Signed: Dominican Republic, 2011 Andujar began the season at Double-A Trenton before earning a promotion to the IL on June 19. At both stops he produced power while also making frequent contact. Andujar drew rave reviews from managers and scouts for his uncanny ability to barrel baseballs with authority as well as his energetic nature on the field. He hit all nine of his Scranton home runs to his pull side, but he uses the off field enough to develop an above-average hit tool. His bat speed and natural strength suggest he will develop home run power to the opposite field in time. Scouts are mixed on Andujar's ability to stay in the dirt, with some projecting him to a corner outfield spot. He has a plus arm, quick-twitch actions and a strong work ethic at third base, but below-average footwork and hard hands could be too much to overcome. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 227 36 72 13 1 9 30 17 33 3 0 .317 .364 .502 16. Clint Frazier, OF, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (Yankees) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/3090.png Age: 23 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-1 Wt.: 190 Drafted: HS—Loganville, Ga., 2013 (1/Indians) The Yankees acquired Frazier in July 2016 when they sent Andrew Miller to the Indians. He appeared in the IL for a month last season but made big strides this year by improving his walk and strikeout rates on his way to a callup to New York on July 1. With plus bat speed, Frazier delivered power in Triple-A and the majors this season, but some evaluators think he always will pair home runs with strikeouts and low batting averages because of a limiting, rigid swing. With sufficient pitch recognition, though, he can be an impact power hitter. An above-average runner with a plus arm, Frazier has the tools to turn into an above-average defender in either outfield corner, with the versatility to play center if needed. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 273 46 70 19 2 12 42 37 69 9 2 .256 .344 .473 17. Dustin Fowler, OF, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (Yankees) image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/3090.png Age: 22 B-T: L-L Ht.: 6-0 Wt.: 195 Drafted: HS—Dexter, Ga., 2013 (18) Fowler turned in his best season with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to earn a callup to New York on June 29—but that's where the good news would end. Before he could step to the plate for the first time, he suffered a season-ending knee injury after running into a wall in foul territory in the first inning. The Yankees traded him a month later to the Athletics as part of the price for Sonny Gray. One scout said Fowler has a chance to be "Kiermaier lite" defensively, referencing the Rays' two-time Gold Glove center fielder Kevin Kiermaier. His arm is below-average. Fowler has good barrel control and above-average speed but doesn't walk much. He hit a career-high 13 home runs in the IL but is more of a gap hitter who racks up extra bases and stolen bases with his wheels. AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG 297 49 87 19 8 13 43 15 63 13 5 .293 .329 .542 18. Lucas Sims, RHP, Gwinnett (Braves) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_braves83.jpg BravesAge: 23 B-T: R-R Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 220 Drafted: HS—Snellville, Ga., 2012 (1) After walking 6.6 batters per nine innings during his first Triple-A stop last year, Sims cut that rate to 2.8 this year while striking out 10.3 per nine and posting a 3.75 ERA to earn his first big league callup on Aug. 1. Hit hard as a starter in Atlanta, Sims moved to the bullpen after running up a 5.73 ERA and .293 opponent average. Sims still has a chance to start but faces questions about how well his fastball—which sits in the low 90s—will play at the big league level without steps forward from his other offerings. He throws a firm upper-80s slider/cutter, an upper-70s curveball with little depth but late break and a mid-80s changeup that needs work. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 7 4 3.75 20 19 0 115 95 49 48 19 36 132 .224 19. Jake Bauers, OF/1B, Durham (Rays) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/3ds_rays5.jpg 3ds_rays5Age: 21 B-T: L-L Ht.: 6-1 Wt.: 195 Drafted: HS—Huntington Beach, Calif., 2013 (7/Padres) A gifted young hitter who advanced to Double-A as a 19-year-old in 2015, Bauers remained one of the youngest players in his league this year in the IL. Scouts rave about his swing and approach in the box, and he ranked second in the IL with 78 walks and fifth in on-base percentage (.368). Bauers has yet to tap into his above-average raw power consistently—which he'll need to do as a corner player—but he continues to walk at a high rate and has no trouble driving the ball to all fields. He could mature into a plus hitter with above-average power. A natural first baseman, Bauers has good footwork and soft hands around the bag. The Rays were grooming him as a corner outfielder because he's an average runner—he stole 20 out of 23 bases this year—and good athlete without huge raw power. Scouts assessed Bauers' outfield play as below-average to abysmal, but Durham manager Jared Sandberg said he made progress during the season. The Rays put him back at first after trading Casey Gillaspie at midseason. W L ERA G GS SV IP H R ER HR BB SO AVG 12 8 3.64 24 24 0 124 130 55 50 11 31 152 .268 20. Chance Sisco, C, Norfolk (Orioles) | image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/bba_video_icon_red.png bba_video_icon_red image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1002.png Baltimore OriolesAge: 22 B-T: L-R Ht.: 6-2 Wt.: 195 Drafted: HS—Corona, Calif., 2013 (2) Sisco hit a career-high seven home runs but a career-low .267 in the IL while continuing to progress as a catcher, where he caught 94 games, good for another career high. The Orioles called up their top-rated prospect in September. Some evaluators say Sisco's blocking and receiving have improved behind the plate, but his throwing is still below-average. He threw out just 23 percent of basestealers this season, the worst rate among qualified IL catchers, and will need to improve his footwork and release on throws. Orioles officials noted improved throwing in the second half prior to his big league promotion. Sisco has a chance to be a solid offensive catcher—he's a career .311 hitter in the minors—in a league where most catchers don't hit. When he's locked in, he can hit good velocity where it's pitched, but he'll need to avoid slipping into a grip-it-and-rip-it pull approach that surfaced at times this season. Sisco shows good power to all fields and scouts are convinced home runs will come later. Read more at http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/2017-international-league-top-20-prospects/#yg7tItFQ04RoYESX.99