2023 PROSPECT RANKINGS

Our 2023 Prospect ranks use indicators (↑) or (↓) showing movement from our last rank (7/12/22), "New" for new to our list or no change "NC" (If the rank is within about 3 spots of our last rank).  Each player has a position noted, current team, current age, expected level for 2023, expected date to debut or date debuted and MLB Pipeline's recent ranks, as well Rotowire's ranks with the last number being the 1/18/23 rank)

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1. (NC) Grayson Rodriguez  RHP  BAL   23.1  AAA  2023 (MLB#4 | Rotowire was #11/then #18 now 17)

A lat injury put the GrayRod train on a temporary hold (delaying what, at that time, looked to be a last and final AAA start on 6/2/22).  Before the injury, Grayson compiled a remarkable 2.09 ERA, xFIP 2.70 (#9 in MiLB), striking out 80 batters over 56 innings (37.4% for a K/9 of 12.86).  When he returned in September (which was suprisingly quick), Grayson was eased into action in High A before working his way back to Norfolk.  Over 6 starts, Grayson put up mixed results: 9 ERs in 15.2 IP (5.35 ERA) but a whopping 29 Ks. Don't let the post injury returns deter you, Rodriguez is not only the best pitching prospect in baseball, but the best overall prospect! He should have a dominant Spring and we should see him at the top of Baltimore's 2023 rotation with DL Hall.

2.  (NC)  Daniel Espino      RHP  CLE   21.11  AA  2023  (MLB was #11/new #15 | Roto #29/#35/#42)   

Espino can really sling it, reaching 102 mph on his heater while parked in the 97-100 range. That +++ FB anchors a 2.45 ERA with 35 K's in 18.1 IP.  Fangraphs gives a 60 future value/grade to Espino putting him on short list shared only by Shane Baz and Grayson Rodriguez -- making his stats and stuff (scouting praise) equally impressive.  The problem for Espino, though, is not his stuff but his body. From knee tendinitis to shoulder problems, Espino was only able to muster those 18.1 innings in 2022. That means that in 2023, he could be limited to 50-70.  Look for Espino in Cleveland either in relief role in late 2023, or a delayed entry to 2024 where he'll cement himself at or near the top of the Guardian's rotation.

3.  (↑)  Hunter Brown        RHP   HOU  24.4   MLB  2022   (MLB #84/#68 | Roto #130/#36/#27)

What's not to like about Hunter?  A 100mph FB, a great ERA (2.55 -- #9th among pitchers with 60+IP), an xFIP of 3.26 and a K rate of 11.38 per 9IP (134 K's, 106 IP). And Hunter didn't stop when HOU made the call, as Hunter was even better with a sparking 0.89 ERA and 22 K's in 20.1IP.  Hunter was fairly widely available in dynasty leagues in early 2022 as, at that time, he was barely cracking MLB's top 100.  Who will be this year's Hunter Brown?

4. (↑) Gavin Williams         RHP   CLE   22.10  AA   2023   (MLB #79/#53 | Roto: #43/#39/#29)

Although his microscopic 1.40 ERA, xFIP 2.44 (then 2nd best in MiLB) took a hit late in the season (to rise to 3.46 xFIP), Gavin possesses a FB that can reach triple digits and a K rate approaching 12 per 9 IP. Although FanGraphs has the FutureValue of Gavin at just 45+, those values are subject to re-evaluation, and look for Fangraphs get up to speed and a 60/65 rating. MLB recently had Gavin as the 3rd best prospect within the CLE system, while we have him as their #1.  Go get him if you can!

5.  (NC) Esteury Ruiz          CF   OAK   23.10  AAA   2022   (MLB: still NR | Roto #77/#42/#40)

All the metrics tell us how good he is, and then so do our eyes -- as we literally watched this guy play every day.  The in-house opinion? MLB, the Athletic and Rotowire (and everyone else) have been way behind the game on MiLB stolen base leader Ruiz (who swiped 85 SBs, beating out 2nd place by 14!).  But it's not just the steals, it's an wRC of 118 (#1 MiLB), wRAA of 42.5 (#4), a wOBA of .434 (#19 MiLB) and an wRC+ 156 (#14).  Esteury also doesn't strike out a ton (17.4% K rate) while walking a fair share (12.2% BB) -- all the while maintaining an incredible OPS of .974 (#21 MiLB)........Folks, those are incredible numbers.  Sure, its ONE year from Ruiz (though the speed/steals were already there), but it's ONE bonkers, off the chart, incredible year.  And, it's no fluke, this guy is going to be an everyday player, and, a bona fide star.  Ok, so we read recently about Ruiz' below average exit velocities which concerned some teams, but low exit velocity or not, 16 HRS in 541 PA's isn't too bad if you ask us. And, does it matter for a guy who gets on base and then steals more bases? Ruiz basically has a 40% chance of being on base every time up (a single [.275-.310 projected MLB Avg] + BB [10-15% BB rate]) plus a 15% chance of doubling (+.400 OBP + steal [based on 80% success rate on SB attempts on 75% of OBP]).  Who doesn't want that guy in their lineup?  Still, with the in-season trade from SD to MIL it was almost if Ruiz was unwanted.  Then came the trade to Oakland and Ruiz has to feel wanted and ecstatic!  (Note: MLB updated its OAK top 30 to place Ruiz at #6 after not having Ruiz in SD's top 30 to start 2022 and only at SD#29 in June 2022)  Look for Esteury to take over the Athletics CF job (where he'll replace the non-hitting Pache) and absolutely thrive at the top of the batting order.  Those that say ATL killed OAK in the trade for Sean Murphy have never seen Ruiz play (Mueller and Royber aren't bad either).  Oakland may have swung and missed on Pache, but Oakland swung, singled, stole and scored with Ruiz.

6.  (↑) Ezequiel Tovar       SS    COL    21.4    MLB     2023  (MLB #58/#27 | Roto #33/#16/#25)

Some thought Tovar should have made the Rockies out of camp in 2021.  AA thought so too: .318 Avg, .931 OPS, 13 HRs, 17 SBs, wRC+ 153 (#17 MiLB AA).  After the Rockies promoted Tovar to AAA and he continued to hit, it was time to give Zeke a little taste of the majors (and there should be much more of that in 2023).  After a stellar campaign in 2022, MLB moved Tovar up to #27 in its ranks. Looks as though minors production does matter!

7.  (NC) Jordan Walker    3B      STL     20.7   AAA     2023    (MLB #6 | Roto #4/#4/#4)

Having hit .306 with 19 HRs, 31 2Bs, 22/27 SBs and an OPS  of .898 (#101 MiLB], Jordan is ready for AAA Memphis.  Although there may not be a spot for Jordan Walker in STL at the moment, his easy swing and big power (without having to overswing -- 21.6% K rate), coupled with above average athleticism have Jordan projected as a future MLB star.  Although a much bigger version (and an infielder over an outfielder), Jordan reminds us of a Willie McGee out there: the swing, the gait, the demeanor.  If so, are we looking at a future All-Star?

8. (↑) Andrew Painter      RHP    PHI   19.8    AAA     2023   (MLB #54/#24 | Roto #134/#17/#16)

Andrew may be a Painter by name but his occupation is electrician because the guy is lights out. Standing 6'7" (6'7" + 1/2 with cleats), that tall frame and downward angle is generating some serious heat with a 100mph FB, 3 plus pitches leading to 155 K's in 103.2 IP in 2022, including 37 K's in 28.1 AA innings (2.54 AA ERA). With an overall ERA of 1.56 (on the year) and a 2.64 xFIP [10th best MiLB], Andrew has fast tracked his arrival.  FanGraphs gives Painter a coveted 60 FV (making him one of only 4).

9.  (↑)  James Wood         OF    WAS     20.4   A+      2024    (MLB #91/#34 | Roto #65/#11/#11)

Though injuries (and a trade) blunted his 2022 campaign, James Wood still put together a .313 Avg with 12 HRs and 20 SBs (.956 OPS) across 293 ABs which was good for a 150 wRC+ (35th in MiLB).  The 6'7" slugger is athletic, gets on base (career .439 wOBA) and doesn't strike out a ton (career 23.3% K rate).  And the 75 K's in 2022 (21.6%) to 50 BBs (14.4%) isn't a bad ratio.  SD gave up a lot to get Soto (but obviously it had to, if the Padres wanted Soto).

10. (↑)   DL Hall               LHP    BAL     24.3   MLB    2022    (MLB #67 | Roto #133/#85/#62)

What is it with us and pitching?? (that makes 6 of our top 10 [and 7 of 11] starting pitchers!) 

Healthy again, DL Hall put together a string of good starts in AAA to make the leap to the bigs!  But, not only was the major league debut a little concerning (5.93 ERA), so were some of the minor league numbers. Most impressive for Hall is the K ratio (striking out a whopping 137 batters over 84.1 IP).  Of course, he walked 50 and gave up 67 hits (including 10 HRs), resulting in an overall ERA of 4.48 (1.39 WHIP).  DL Hall is a fairly polarizing prospect with 3 plus pitches, a 98 mph FB (he averaged 96.2 in MLB) and a 55 grade from FanGraphs (which puts him into a virtual tie at #5). But, a high ERA (minors and majors) and up and down stuff (literally) has many (including MLB) dropping DL Hall down the prospect list.  DL Hall is going to have great games in the bigs and he's going to have some clunkers. Hopefully the great ones are a lot more plentiful than the not so great. 

11.  (↑) Eury Perez          RHP      MIA     19.8   AA   2024   (MLB #16/#9 | Roto #30/#19/#18)

​At an intimidating 6'8" with a 99 heater and maybe more in the tank (and 3 potential + pitches), Eury Perez projects to be a frontline starter.  However, Eury didn't make the jump from AA to AAA as the production fell off the projection a bit and found Eury ending the campaign with a 4.08 ERA (though jut a 3.52 xFIP which is good for #30 across MiLB).  Still Eury struck out a pretty incredible 12.72 per 9 IP.  So, not to worry, despite the up and down season, there's not just a lot of buzz here, but substance.  Fangraphs agrees, making Eury its top rated pitcher with a 65 FV.

12.   (New) Endy Rodriguez   C/OF    PIT   22.8    MLB  2023  (MLB#97| Roto #172/#57/#43)

Endy slugged his way through two levels in 2022 (A+ and AA) earning a promotion to AAA to finish the year (where his audition was spectacular: .455 Avg, 1.208 OPS.  With an overall wRC+ of 166 (including a league leading 199 at AA), Endy had arguably the 7th best MiLB season in 2022 (all players, all factors considered).  With good speed for a catcher and K rate under 20% (at 19.0%), Endy is currently on Pittsburg 40 man roster with a chance to not just make the Pirates team out of Spring but become a full time player and part-time catcher.

13.   (↑) Kerry Carpenter        RF        DET    25.4     MLB  2022  (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/NR)

Where is the love for MiLB's #16 HR hitter (and #6 in wRC+ [168])? Despite 30 HRs, a .313 Avg and a promotion to AAA (where Kerry placed 4th in AAA wRC+ for players with 130PAs), MLB still doesn't have Kerry ranked in Detroit's top 30, and Roto is MIA.  Despite the off the prospect radar background, Detroit knew what it had when it promoted Kerry and when he hit .252 with 6 HRs in just 113 PA's.  The only bummer to us (about Kerry's game) is the lack of speed.   

14. (↑) Matt Mervis            1B          CHC     24.6     AAA    2023  (MLB NR | Roto NR/#31/#38)

When are we going to see 2016's 39th Round pick, Matt Mervis? (Well, to be fair, Mervis opted to attend Duke over signing back in 2016 and then went undrafted in the shortened 5 round 2020 draft) Fast forward to now, after batting .309 across three levels in 2022, and swatting an incredible 36 HRs (tied for 3rd in MiLB)....all while leading all of MiLB in RBIs with 119, maybe its MERVIS Time! Until then, what is left for Matt in the minors (especially after placing 5th in wRAA [41.6] and 15th in wRC+ [156]?

15.  (NC)  Taj Bradley      RHP     TBR     21.9    AAA    2023   (MLB #34/#20 | Roto #69/#27/#49)

A strong showing in AA to start the 2022 MiLB campaign (1.70 ERA) led to a promotion to AAA...which came with a few hiccups and an ERA of 3.66.  Still, 2022 was a success as a whole with a stellar 2.57 ERA and 141 K's across 133.1 IP.  With a ++ FB that can reach 99 and a ++ slider, Taj is one pitch away from being an SP1.

16.  (NC) Cade Cavalli    RHP     WAS     24.4    MLB      2022   (MLB #47/#55 | Roto #84/#111/#117) 

A real tough start to Cade's 2022 season saw his ERA go as far North as 9.00 (on 4/24/22), leaving many wondering whether Cade was AAA (much less MLB) ready. Well, hold the Cavalli, as the ERA came down to 3.71 with a stretch of great 3 starts (during which he went 15 IP, 4 ER, 16 K's). That earned a call to the bigs (and one start that didn't go well: 14.54 ERA, 4.1 IP, 6 hits, 2 BB's but 6 K's).  Cade likely has to learn to pitch and not simply throw -- since even a 100mph heater is hittable (when major league batters are sitting on it because the secondary pitches can't be thrown for strikes). Fangraphs has Cade graded as a 55FV with FOUR plus pitches including a heater that can reach 102 (but Cade averaged "just" 95.6 in MLB)

17.  (↑) Bobby Miller       RHP     LAD    23.9    AAA     2023  (MLB#26 | Roto #85/#108/#48)

Some high heat for the 6'5" hurler, but also some struggles in AA to the tune of a 4.45 ERA.  Still, Miller compiled a cool 117 K's over 91 IP in 19 starts. That production earned him a promotion to AAA where he struck out 28 in 21.1 IP (3.38 ERA). FanGraphs has Miller graded at a 50 FV with a ++FB reaching 102 which he pairs with a +slider.  (BTW, in case you're counting, that's 10 pitchers in our top 20, but don't worry, there's just 23 in our top 100)

18. (↑)  Royce Lewis          SS       MN    23.6   MLB  2022    (MLB#58 | Roto #2/#14/#9)

Introducing Royce Lewis, your old/new Twins SS.  Royce has been the presumed long term homegrown SS for MN since he was drafted first overall in 2017.  But injuries and a really bad 2019 slowed the Royce train.  But after two years off (the 2020 pandemic and a 2021 ACL tear), Royce rebounded in 2022 in a big way, hitting .313 at AAA (.939 OPS) which earned him a promotion to the bigs (2x) (before re-injuring his ACL). Look for Royce to rejoin MN in mid-to-late 2023 (either pushing Royce to 2nd or Correa to 3rd)

19.  (New) Jackson Holliday   SS    BALT   19.1   A     2025    (MLB#13 | Roto #12/#12)

2022 #1 overall pick Jackson Holliday stormed out of the gate in Rookie Ball, only to find himself struggling in low A (.238 Avg, 42ABs. 0 HRS, 10Ks, 1 SB). But, he was just 18 and it was just 42 ABs.  Expect Jackson to find his stroke and be promoted to A+ by the end of the year.

20.   (↓) Matt Gorski              OF    PIT     25     AAA    2023   (MLB NR | Roto #392/#320/#393)

Our placing Gorski in the top 10 (on 6/17/22) sent some shockwaves across fantasy ranks.  This was because no one had Gorski that high (he's barely inside of MLB's Pittsburg top 30 [old rank is #29, new rank is #22]).  But he deserved that.  After the 2020 minors year was wiped out due to Covid, Matt returned to pro ball (A+) with a relatively up and down 2021, low average, but showing decent power and speed (.223 Avg, .710 OPS with 17 HRs and 18 SBs).  While the low average may have prevented the jump to AA, the other numbers were still very good. Then in 2022 (between A+ and AA), Matt put it all together, matching 2021's HR total (17) in just 146 A+ PA's (vs 401ABs in 2021) -- while improving in all other facets of the game (including ISO .318 [#8 MiLB], OPS .956 [#30] and K rate -- 28.6%, down from 31%).  With a wRC+152 [#27 MiLB] (not far from Corbin Carroll's 157) and a wRAA of 22 (83rd best), the 6'4" (former 2nd rounder) Gorski put together a tremendous year in the minors (including being named Pittsburgh's MiLB batter of the year).  Had it not been for the Covid year, we're pretty sure the 6'4" suprisingly uber athletic Gorski would be playing in Pittsburgh already.

21.   (↓)  Henry Davis          C       PIT       23.3     AA     2023   (MLB #19 | Roto #21/#82/#92)

Another player with a high ceiling is this guy.  But, what sets Henry Davis apart is a high floor. If you were to build a prototypical catcher [robot or human] Henry Davis is the model. Davis just looks like a catcher, and has the hit tool unlike any other, save maybe his clone, Adley R. After a quick run through A+ (wRC+ 177, 1.035 OPS, 5 HRs, 5 SBs), Davis hit a wall in AA Altoona: .207 Avg, 4 HRs over 116 ABs. Look, we're not thrilled with the numbers but we're convinced Henry D will bounce back in 2023. Overall the wRC+ of 136 put him even with Francisco Alvarez (but with better speed and fewer K's, but less power)

22.  (↑) Vaun Brown          OF       SFG      24.6      AA     2023  (MLB NR | Roto NR/#168/#145)

It was a travesty that Vaun wasn't even in MLB's 2022 top 30 San Francisco Giant prospects (until the final ranks from MLB, appearing at #10).  And, it was also a travesty that San Fran decided to place Vaun in A ball (instead of A+) to start.  Vaun took both in stride by batting .346 slugging 14 HRs and stealing 23 bases (to just 3 CS).  That earned Vaun a promotion to A+ Eugene where he got to play with the blue chip Giants prospects (Luciano, Matos)....and then outplay them! That on the field play earned Vaun an end of year promotion to AA.  An old draftee (10th round, 2021), SF just underplaced, undervalued, underVauned Vaun who finished 1st in wRAA (47.3), 3rd in MiLB in wRC+ (175), & 5th in wOBA (.464).  A Spd grad of 9.3 won't hurt his long term outlook either. This guy wants it and won't be a Richmond Flying Squirrel for long as he'll be knocking on the Bay door in 2023.

23.  (NC)  Elly De La Cruz    3B/SS      CIN   21   AA    2024   (MLB#50/#14 | Roto #26/#6/#6)

Everyone loves Elly De La Cruz (and by everyone, we mean everyone doing fantasy ranks). Batting .304 w/ an OPS of .945, 28 HRs and 47 SBs (just 6 CS) in 2022, you can see why. After getting off to a cool start to 2022, Elly heated up (and kept heating) to the tune of the 27th best ISO (.282) and 37th best wRC+ (150) Those are all very good metrics, but the one that hurts is the far too high strikeout rate (30.8%) which lowered his wOBA to .409 (75th best). At 6'5" you're getting the non-prototypical SS (maybe somewhat like the Pirates O'Neil Cruz).

24.  (↑) Logan O'Hoppe     C     LAA     22.11    MLB    2022  (MLB #89/#64 | Roto #154/#67/#65)

Logan pretty well destroyed AA, and when the fightin' Phils sent him to LAA in a late season trade, the Angels couldn't resist a September call up. Having hit .283 with 26 HRs (.960 OPS), Logan looks to be middle of the lineup type bat. With a K rate of just 16.6% and an wRC+ of 159 (#10 MiLB in 2022), it's time we recognize how good Logan is.  In fact, he's very arguably the best hitting catcher this side of the Pecos.....well, in all of MiLB!

25.  (New)  Druw Jones        OF      AZ       19.2       A      2025  (MLB#11 | Roto #10/#10)

Taking a swing at the fences here with Andruw Jones' son, the ultra talented (5 Tool player), Druw Jones -- who at just 19 years old and coming out of HS will get his first taste of pro ball in the ACL.

26.   (↑) Brett Baty              3B/OF     NYM  23.2   MLB   2023   (MLB#18 | Roto #103/#32#32)

Over his first 260 ABs in AA in 2022, Baty was sporting just a .273 average (.830 OPS, .369 wOBA) with 11 HRs which was good but not awe inspiring.  And then he hit the switch.  Over the next 80 ABs, Brett batted nearly .400 to raise his avg to .312 (.943 OPS) with 8 more round trippers (nearly doubling his HR ouput in a 1/3 of the ABs). That hot streak not only got Brett to AAA but a call to the bigs (where he hit just .184 over 38 ABs but 2 memorable HRs and a sensational experience to build on). With a wRC+ of 158 (#12 MiLB) Brett has solidified himself (in our view) as the Mets #1 prospect.

27.  (↓) Moises Gomez          OF      STL      23.10    AAA   2023  (MLB NR | Roto #213/#384#255)

Oh Moises, where have you been?  After being released by TB, Gomez was signed to a minors contract by STL and has given the redbirds more than they could have ever asked for, except maybe the exact profile that Moises was originally predicted to have (when he debuted with TB). Early this year, Moises led all of the Minors with a wRC+ of 214, literally performing more than twice as well as the average minor leaguer.  Since then, he cooled off, but still ended the year in AAA with an impressive wRC+ of 149 (#41 MiLB), a wRAA of 34.2 (#14 MiLB) and the 7th best isolated power metric in MiLB (.330) which was behind a minor league leading 39 round trippers (and 94 RBIs, #27 MiLB). So, can we sit by and deny the phenomenal year Moises had?  To not have Moises Gomez in your top 30 or even your top 50 is telling us that minor league stats are meaningless.  And how does MLB Pipeline rank Moises just as the Cards #30 prospect when STL made Moises its co-minor league player of the year along with its #1 (Jordan Walker and #3 Gordon Graceffo)? Baffling. For more on Moises, see: https://www.vivaelbirdos.com/2022/4/21/23035151/a-look-at-moises-gomez 

28. (↑) Gavin Stone               RHP         LAD     24.3     AAA    2023   (MLB NR/#77 | Roto #99/#50#47)

Reaching 97/98 on his FB and mixing in a plus changeup, the University of Central Arkansas product (and UCA's highest ever draft pick) Gavin Stone flat out dominated AA hitters (1.60 ERA, 12.04/9 K rate, 2.08 xFIP) on his way to debuting at AAA OKC where he was even better (1.16 ERA, 33 K's in 23.1 IP) and passing over the likes of Bobby Miller! Although overshadowed by the "other" LAD pitching prospects (like Miller), Stone was not only been LAD's best minor league pitcher this year, but arguably, all of MiLB! 

29.  (↑) Kyle Harrison            LHP        SFG      21.5     AAA      2024     (MLB#21 | Roto #48/#22/#28)

Although Kyle wasn't seen as a fireballer, his FB has clocked as high as 98 and Kyle does a good job mixing pitches/location/movement which all resulted in dominant starts at A+ in 2022 before a promotion to AA Richmond which didn't start well (2 starts, 9.1 IP, 7.71 ERA) but since has grooved into a nice 3.11 ERA with 127 K's over  84.0 IP.  Kyle has two plus pitches with his slider being better than the FB and FanGraphs gives Kyle a strong 55 FV.

30.  (New) Kyle Manzardo     1B        TBR      22.5      AAA      2024   (MLB NR | Roto #100/#8/#7)

Debuting in MLB Pipeline's top 100 (and #4 on MLB's TBR Top 30), is the Rays up and coming future 1st basemen. With an advanced plate approach, Kyle dominated High A (.329 Avg, 1.072 OPS, 17 HRs) to earn a promotion to AA where he continued to hit (.323 Avg, .978 OPS, 5 HRs in 99 ABs).  But the two most impressive stats for Kyle are the K to BB rate (65 K's to an almost even 59 BB's) and MiLB's 4th best wRC+ (172). It won't be long before Kyle is dominating AAA and knocking on the major league door.

31. (↑) Christian Encarnacion-Strand   3B   CIN   23.1     AAA   2023 (MLB NR | Roto #233/#63/#52)

With all their trades, Cincinnati revamped what had been a weak minor league system into one of the most promising. Obtaining Strand from Minnesota was one of those moves. In 2022, in 484 ABs across A+ and AA, Christian hit a whopping 32 HRs while batting .304 (.955 OPS) for a wRC+ of 152 (good for 27th, tied with our guy Gorski).  While Strand may be known as an average fielder, Cincy has to find a way to get his bat into their lineup. 

32.  (NC)   Noelvi Marte          SS       CIN        21.2     A+     2024    (MLB#17 | Roto #37/#43/#37)

After a hot start in Everett class A+, the NW temps cooled and so did Noelvi, but he picked back up to make himself a candidate for promotion to AA. But, before that could happen, Noelvi became the centerpiece in a trade with CIN (as SEA went all in to make the playoffs for the first time in 21 years).  The new uni and confines didn't stop Marte as he picked up where he left off to finish the year with a line of .279 Avg, .829 OPS, 19 HRs and 23 SBs which equated to an wRC+ of 131 (good for #164 in MiLB)

33.  (↑) Colton Cowser        OF        BAL      22.9   AAA       2023   (MLB #40 | Roto #143/#15#22)

Colton excelled in AA in 2022, batting .341 (1.037 OPS) with 10 2Bs and 10 Hrs in 176 ABs (resulting in an wRC+ of 184, which was tops in MilB, min 140 PA's). That earned Colton a promotion to AAA where he hit a bit of a wall (.219 Avg, .768 OPS, 38 K's in 105 ABs). It's possible Colton debuts in 2023 but the O's have so much young talent so it may be difficult to find him a home (unless Cedric Mullins or Anthony Santander get moved).

34. (↑) Ricky Tiedemann          LHP       TOR       20.4     AA    2024  (MLB#64/#33 | Roto #78/#23/#19)

Ricky exploded on our boards after pitching to a 1.80 ERA and striking out an incredible 49 batters over 30 IP in low A which (at that time) was good for a MiLB best 2.37 xFIP (and a 42.5% K rate) with batters hitting just .109 (lowest in MiLB).  Not only did the promotion to A+ not slow Tiedemann down, but the 2.39 ERA and 54 K's over 37.2 IP only served to springboard him to AA where he made 4 starts and struck out 14 over 11 IP.  While he has an arsenal of offspeed pitches to get outs, Ricky T hit 99mph this Spring. If he can keep his top 25 metrics (i.e. the 2.87 xFIP and 0.86 WHIP), he'll not only tear up AA and AAA but will be majors bound. 

35.   (↓) Anthony Volpe         SS        NYY        21.9    AAA    2023    (MLB #6 | Roto #17/#7/#8)

After destroying A+ ball, Volpe hit a wall in AA though he improved as the season went on to increase his average to .251 with 18 HRs. That earned him a promotion to AAA where he hit another wall (.236 Avg and 30.3% K rate) but 50 SBs on the year (the speed doesn't slump element helps balance the other bad metrics).  Still, you can't steal bases if you can't get on base.  Volpe is just 21 so let's say he's got all the tools, but we're not sold on his ability to make consistent contact at the upper levels (.802 OPS in 2022 which placed him poorly at #434 among eligible MiLB players, and a 117 wRC+ which came in at just #398 among MiLB players)

36. (↓) Emmanuel Rodriguez   OF         MN      19.11    A+      2024   (MLB #92 | Roto NR/#62/#53)

The player with the #2 wRC+ (at 196) [min 150ABs] was this, seemingly out-of-nowhere budding star (albeit before injury, and just 199PAs).  So how did Emmanuel get there?  The #1 reason is the willingness to take a walk (28.6%) and then walk more than striking out (26.1%).  But it wasn't all bases on balls as Emmanuel also boasts a balanced line of .272 Avg, 1.044 OPS (good for #4 MiLB if he had 1 more PA), 9 HRs, 11 SBs.  But alas, a knee injury had Emmanuel out for the remainder of the year.  Still, he made his mark on us (and then MLB Pipeline followed us, naming E-Rod their Twins #3 prospect and #92 overall).

37. (↓)  Francisco Alvarez      C       NYM    21.1    AAA    2022 (MLB#1 | Roto #62/#57/#50)

After being promoted to AAA Alvarez quickly found himself atop MLB Pipeline's rankings as their #1 prospect. Not long before that Francisco had 8 HRs and a 128 wRC+ (giving him an ok, but not great comparative line).  However, Alvarez started clicking on all cylinders in the middle of 2022, soaring to 18 AA HRs (at that time, tying Vinnie Pasquantino but taking 21 more PA's to get there and doing it at AA while Vinnie did it at AAA).  In AAA, over 158 ABs, Alvarez added 9 more HRS (for 27 on the year which tied him for 33rd).  But, he hit just .234 in AAA. So why did MLB make the .234 hitting Alvarez its top prospect? 27 HRs is good, real good. But a .234 Avg is not. And while a wRC+ of 136 is also good, it wasn't #1 great, as it came in just 114th among MiLB players. And while maybe you don't need speed from a catcher, a 1.5 SPD grade is real bad. Then add the K's -- while the K rate of 24.8% isn't horrendous its not great either. All in all, putting Alvarez at #1 was a major stretch. After we called out MLB Pipeline , MLB has regain some of their magical senses and moved Francisco down to #3.  Cisco is no doubt a Mets farm favorite, had a good year, and is a name for us to keep an eye on, but his numbers (and projections) simply didn't justify a top rank (even if you add in defense, which of course we're not, which is good, because that defense is subpar to average at best). 

38. (New) Gordon Graceffo   SP       STL       22.10      AAA     2023  (MLB#79 | Roto #87/#167/#243)

The STL minors co-player of the year pitched to a 2.97 ERA across 139.1 IP in 2022 striking out 139 (so right at 9.00 per 9 IP).  And Gordon can dial it up, reaching 99/100 MPH on his FB to pair with a plus slider, curve and changeup.  Gordo looks to be the real deal in Redbird land.

39.  (New) Tink Hence       SP         STL    20.5   A+   2024    (MLB NR/#91 | Roto #298/#69/#85)

We kept an eye on Tink Hence last year, even before a mid-west scout contacted us to tell us how good Tink was ("Think Tink" he said).  And maybe we were just to bullish on Tink...until now.  With just 52.1 IP in 2022 (in low A), maybe it was also hard to fully evaluate Hence, but it's hard not to acknowledge how dominant he was in those games (81 K's, 15 BB's, .88 WHIP and MiLB leading 1.94 xFIP)  Still, FanGraphs has just a 40+ FV grade on Tink despite three plus pitches: a changeup, curve and a FB that can hit 99 but sits 93-96. So, as we Tinker with our ranks, look for Hence to start in A+ and move his way to AA in 2023.

40.  (NC)  Jackson Chourio   OF        MIL      18.10     AA    2024  (MLB #38/#10 | Roto #89/#5/#5)

The Brewer's top prospect started out hot (.324 BA, 12 HRs and 10 SBs across 250 Low A ABs (good for a .435 wOBA, #29 in MiLB at that time). But the strike outs (28.2%) were a major concern. Still, Jackson earned the call to A+ where he didn't fare as well (.252 Avg, .805 OPS, but hit for more power: 8 HRS in 127 ABs).  That power stroke earned the promotion to AA where 23 ABs just weren't enough time to evaluate (but 11 K's in those first 23 ABs tend to make us think that the promotion came a bit too early).  On the year, Jackson's line resulted in a wRC+ of 135 (123rd overall).

41. (↓) Curtis Mead             2B/3B       TBR   22.2    AAA  2023  (MLB #35 | Roto #32/#23/#14)

The one constant for Curtis is that he hits, no matter where: Australia, the US, A, AA, AAA...In 2022, it was a .298 Avg, .922 OPS and a 142 wRC+ (#75)  Tampa Bay will have to find Curtis Mead ABs, and it may be at 2B (or as a UTIL guy) and 2nd, 7th or 8th in the order.

42.  (New) Brooks Lee         SS/3B       MN   21.11   AA    2024  (MLB #32 | Roto #59/#73)

The one guy that most reminds us of Curtis Mead is Brooks Lee. After being selected #8 in the 2022 draft, the super advanced hitting Brooks skipped low A and yet had no problem with A+ (.289 Avg, .849 OPS, 4 HRs, 97 ABs) before a quick promotion to AA where he'll start out in 2023.  But maybe Brooks won't stay at SS (since MN has Royce and now Correa (again)), but Brooks could play a utility role and/or hold down 2nd, 3rd, OF and bat 2nd, 5th or 6th.

43. (New) Tyler Gentry           OF       KC     23.11   AA     2023  (MLB NR | Roto #342/#141/#154)

The Royals #8 prospect really turned it on in 2022. Repeating A+ ball, Tyler hit .336, .950 OPS in 128 ABs before a promotion to AA where Tyler fared even better: .321 Avg, .972 OPS, 16 HRs, 8 SBs over 274 ABs. On the year, Tyler had a wRC+ of 152 (good for 37th in MiLB)

44. (New) Evan Carter           OF     TEX      20.4  AA     2024  (MLB #56 | Roto #63/#29/#34)

Evan Carter has the SPOW (speed/power) tools that Dynasty Focus appreciates.  And while 2022 wasn't necessarily a "wow" kind of year in A+ (.287 Avg, .864 OPS. 11 HRs, 26 SBs), the overall line of 140 wRC+ (84th best) was pretty good (which was needed after an underwhelming 2021 campaign in A ball -- .236 Avg, .825 OPS, 2 HRs over 106 ABs.

45.  (↓)  Josh Jung              3B        TEX    24.11    MLB    2022  (MLB#31 | Roto #25/#13/#13)

Shoulder surgery is not a good thing, unless you're studying Orthopedics. But Josh made a faster than expected recovery to parlay that into a September promotion to the Bigs (wait, what, he did?) If you remember back to 2021, Josh Jung belted 19 HRs (.990 OPS) in 304 ABs while batting .326. In comparison, 2022 didn't go as well (.273 BA in AAA) but 6 HRs in 99 ABs meant the power was back.  That power led to a promotion Arlington where Josh hit just .204 but showed he can hit HRs in the bigs too: 5 in 98 ABs. With 102 plate appearances, Josh won't remain on this list for long. 

46.  (↑) Bryan Mata             RHP       BOS       23.7        AAA    2023  (MLB NR | Roto #278/#111/#241)

After recovering from Tommy John surgery, Bryan rejoined Boston's minor league system and quickly progressed to AAA where he pitched to a 3.47 ERA with 30 K's in 23.1 IP.  On the year, Bryan threw 83 innings with a very good 2.49 ERA and 105 Ks to 46 walks (3.64 xFIP). Mata boasts a + FB (capable of reaching 99), a + curve and a + changeup and looks to be an SP3 for a suddenly pitching rich Red Sox farm.

47.  (↑) Pete Crow-Armstrong     OF       CHC   20.10   A+    2023   (MLB #78 | Roto #23/#37/#44)

Pete C-A hit for high average in A ball (.354), HRs (7) and SBs (13) good for a wRC of 168, and found himself promoted to A+ where he continued to hit (.287 across 265 ABs with 9 HRs and 19 SBs). But the wRC+ fell outside the top 100 players in High A. Peter C-A may be a candidate to start in AA.

48.  (NC) Diego Cartaya      C          LAD        21.4    A+   2024   (MLB #8 | Roto #109/#56/#75)

A slow start in A ball made Diego a bit of a forgotten figure to some, but he has legit power and is a legit future star in MLB -- a wRC+139 [93rd best in MiLB] reminds us of that.  But Diego needs to cut down a bit on a 26.7% K rate (which of course would only increase in the majors). but the wOBA of .400 (#109 MiLB) is a good sign and a strong predictor of future MLB success.

49. (↑) Sal Frelick                  OF        MIL        22.8    AAA   2023 (MLB #46 | Roto #116/#68/39)

Sal stops our run of 5 straight pitchers!  We watched Sal a lot because we watched Nashville a lot, where Frelick hit .365 (.943 OPS) with 4 HRs and 9 SBs (good for the 16th best wRC+ in AAA at 155).  Overall, across three levels, Frelick compiled a 137 wRC+ (good for 107th best in MiLB [the 155 wRC+ in AAA placed him 1st among under age 28 prospects with 200+ ABs]). Sal appears to have a very good hit set, doesn't strike out much (11.2%) but lacks big power.  He should be a threat to hit .300 in the bigs and steal 20 bases.

50.  (NC) Sam Bachman            SP         LAA       23.3    AA     2023   (MLB NR | Roto #268/NR/NR) 

A late start kept Sam off the prospect radar in 2022, but he put together a decent 3.92 ERA in AA (though just 30 K's in 43.2).  With 3+ pitches (Fangraphs says 2), a fastball that can reach 101 (and a weak Angels rotation ahead of him, especially if Ohtani is traded), you have to think Sam has a bright future ahead.  But hopefully for us its not a bullpen arm...

51.   (↓) Jordan Lawlar           SS        ARI     20.6      AA     2024       (MLB#12 | Roto #5/#3/#3)

The 6th overall pick of 2021 has at times been the best of the 2021 draft class, and in 2022, AZ thought so too as Jordan rocketed through the DBacks minor league system (Rookie ball to A to A+ to AA Amarillo).  But, at each stop, the production declined (which of course is understandable). Between A/A+ ball, Jordan hit over .300, over .900 OPS, while swatting 12 HRs and swiping 37 bases (over 74 games) for an wRC+ of 155. In AA, though, the production dropped to a .212 Avg, and .652 OPS and a 28.9% K rate (with just 2 SBs over 20 games) (wRC+ of 65).  So the question is: Can Jordan replicate the A+ type production in AA? 

52.  (↓)  Marcelo Mayer           SS        BOS     20.1    A+     2024   (MLB#7 | Roto #24/#28/#33)

The consensus #1 rookie prospect for 2022 dynasty drafts had good start to A ball, hitting .291, 7 HRs and 12 SBs over 189 ABs.  Although Meyer had just 1 HR over his first 84 ABs, he picked up a little pop as the year went on and ended with 13 in 350 ABs (17 SBs) with a wRC+ of 143 (good for #70 in MiLB).  At just 20 years of age, Marcelo has lots of time to wow us and move up the charts.

53. (↓)  Joey Wiemer          OF        MIL      23.11  AAA   2023  (MLB #63/#84 | Roto #61/#177/#103)

The Brew Crew's minor league player of the year in 2021, Joey Wiemer, ran and hit [and looked] like his hair was on fire: mashing 27 HRs and stealing 30 bases.  After the promotion to AA in 2022, Joey got off to a fast start, batting .284 (wRC+137) which also eventually earned him another promotion to AAA where he struggled to an overall 2022 line of: .256 Avg, .801 OPS, 21 HRs, 31 SBs with an wRC+ of just 109 (#567 in MiLB). Strikeouts are a big issue for Wiemer (26.8% with just a 10% BB rate).  While it goes against our logic to have Wiemer in our top 100 (much less top 60), we can't help it, as we love to watch this kid play.

54.  (New) Oscar Colas              OF       CHW     24.4   AAA   2023  (MLB#95 | Roto #355/#105/#59)

The Cuban phenom Oscar Colas is about to hit the windy city. After rocketing up the White Sox minor league ranks (and blowing through each level), Oscar finds himself at AAA Charlotte. But if he keeps hitting as he did in 2022 (.314 Avg, .895 OPS 23 HRs, 24 2Bs (wRC+137, #112MiLB), this will be more than a weather report!

55.  (↑)  Sean Bouchard       LF       COL     26.8    MLB   2022   (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/NR)

Sean used a heckuva minor league breakout year to earn a call up to the majors (and didn't stop there, where he hit .297 with 3 HRS in 74 ABs).  Overall, in AAA, Sean hit 20 HRs, stole 12 bases and compiled a 1.039 OPS while generating the 28th best wOBA in MiLB (.429) and 35th best wRC+ (150).  Sean has good power and surprising speed. We'd be very surprised if he doesn't thrive in COL. 

56.  (↓) Miguel Vargas          1B/3B/OF  LAD    23.2   AAA    2022   (MLB#71/#41 | Roto #10/#9) 

After a slow start to AAA, Vargas really picked it up to complete the campaign with a line of of .304 Avg, 17 HRs, .915 OPS, 16 SB's and just a 14.6% k rate, good for an wRC+ of 129 (#194). Vargas has a bright future in LA (whether at 2B, 3B, or the OF), and gave us glimpses of that with his call up to LAD.
57. (↑) Tyler Soderstrom     C/1B      OAK      21.2    AAA    2023  (MLB#47 | Roto #44/#51/#57)

A horrendous start to 2022 had the Tyler fanclub paddling to shore, but the ship righted itself as Tyler navigated through A+, AA and into AAA. On the year, Tyler hit .267 (.825 OPS) with 29 HRs and 105 RBIs but a disappointing 26.1% K rate and perhaps an even more disappointing wRC+ of 116 (#418 MiLB). With both Shea Langeliers and Tyler Soderstrom waiting in the wings, you can see why the A's had no problem trading Murphy.

58. (New) Lazaro Montes     OF       SEA    18.3  ACL   2025  (MLB NR, SEA #10 | Roto #199/#93/#107)

The 6'5" Lazaro Montes was Seattle's biggest international signing in

2021 (and big also meant standing taller than another pretty big guy: 

Nelson Cruz). So with all the hype, what was Lazaro going to do in his

first taste of pro ball in the DSL? How about 10 HRs in 176 ABs, an

OPS of 1.007 and a wRC+ of 162 (good for 8th in MiLB in 2022).

That type of firepower should put Lazaro on everyone's radar (and

we'll be the first to make that official).  However, the current problem

for Lazaro is the K rate (33.2%). But look for Lazaro to find his way to the AZ complex league and then Low A Modesto in 2023.

59. (New)  Austin Wells        C        NYY      23.5   AA   2024  (MLB#82 | Roto #86/#87/#80)

Austin flew through the minor leagues in 2022, posting an overall line of .277 Avg, .897 OPS, 20 HRs, 13.9% BB rate and a surprising 16 SBs. Austin isn't known as a very good defensive catcher though, so he'll really have to hit to make and stick in the majors. the wRC+ of 145 (good for 59th in MiLB) will help him do that.

60. (New) Robert Perez Jr.    1B/OF   SEA   22.7    A+      2024  (MLB NR | Roto NR/#321/#348)

After two years in Single A Modesto, the M's finally promoted Robert to A+ Everett where he thrived (batting .342, 1.060 OPS, 7 HRs, 35 games) for an wRC+ of 193 (#1 in A+). 

61. (New)  Addison Barger   3B/SS    TOR  23.2    AAA    2023   (MLB NR | Roto NR/#112/#130/#130)

The Jays' #14 prospect flew through the minors last year (A+/AA/AAA), seemingly hitting better with each promotion. On the year, Addison hit .308, .933 OPS, 26 HRs, 91 RBIs and 9 SBs over 467 ABs for an wRC+ of 151 (improving on his career 126 wRC+) and placing 31st in MiLB.  Addison needs to  work to keep that career 26.1% K rate South of 25%.

62. (↑)  Masyn Winn           SS        STL    20.10   AA   2024 (MLB #90/#51 | Roto #75/#70)

Masyn is a pitcher/SS who focused on playing the field in 2021 and that decision paid dividends in 2022. Although the promotion to AA came with a major dip in production (down to a wRC+ of 117 (#398) after posting as high as 167 wRC+ in A+ (21st best in MiLB at the time), Masyn will rebound. And the 8.8 spd rating is legit (43 SBs, 8 3Bs)!  And, those of you that watched the futures game saw Masyn throw a 99 mph heater from short to 1st!  Masyn is uber talented on defense and will certainly contribute on offense (batting leadoff, 2nd or 9th).

63. (New) Ceddanne Rafaela  OF/SS  BOS  22.4   AA   2024  (MLB#96 | Roto #149/#95/#102)

Ceddanne is another guy that hit (and stole) his way into the rankings in 2022: .299 Avg, .880 OPS, 21 HRs, 86 RBIs, 28 SBs (wRC+134 tied with Triston Casas at #133).  The 5'8" 150lb Ceddanne displayed surprising power in 2022 to pair with great speed but whose numbers dipped a bit from A+ to AA (.278 Avg, .824 OPS). Don't be surprised to see Ceddanne in AAA in 2023. 

64. (New) Jackson Merrill        SS         SDP   19.9    A         2025 (MLB#83 | Roto #140/#88/#26)

2021 1st Rounder Jackson Merrill had a very good 2022, hitting .339 (.906 OPS) with 6 HRs and 11 SBs good for a wRC+ of 135 (#122 overall, tied with the likes of Jackson Chourio and just behind Francisco Alvarez.

65. (New) Jonathan Aranda     1B/2B     TBR     24.8    MLB   2022  (MLB NR | Roto #82/#67/NR)

Jonathan Aranda can hit. While he didn't show it in 87 PA's at the major league level (.192 Avg, .264 wOBA), he will in 2023. In AAA in 2022, Aranda held a .400 wOBA over 465 PA's which was just behind guys like Alek Thomas (.402) and Corbin Carroll (.406) and ahead of players like Miguel Vargas (.397) and Gunnar Henderson (.393)

66. (New) Connor Norby      2B       BALT     22.7     AAA   2023  (MLB NR | Roto #98/#25/#31)

Connor quietly put together a darn good year, .279 Avg., .886 OPS, 29 HRS, 16 SBs with most of that production coming at AA where Connor had a .412 wOBA (tied for 32nd with Curtis Mead and James Outman (and just behind Brett Baty). Although he's not viewed as a slugger, 29 HRs will tell you otherwise.  What we can tell you is he looks to be a solid 2B that may get a chance in 2023.

67.  (↑) Cole Henry             RHP      WAS    23.5   AAA    2023   (MLB NR | Roto #204/NR/NR)

Cole Henry boasts 3 plus pitches, including a 99 MPH FB. But injuries (like TOS) have slowed Cole's progress the talent and despite a 1.71 ERA 0.79 WHIP.

68.  (↓)  Brennen Davis        OF       CHC    23.2   AAA  2022  (MLB#29/#48 | Roto #34/#53/#79)

Some 2022 pre-season ranks had Brennen as high as #4 (e.g. Rotowire). But, striking out 40% of the time will hurt both your real and fantasy worlds. We haven't given up on this five tool player, but he needs to work on the hole in his swing, maybe choke up, get a smaller bat and reduce the K rate.  Improve that average and confidence and then let the power play.  Brennan has a super high ceiling, but there's great risk here. Brennen has also been on the shelf since May 3rd (and the Cubs promoted another OF, Velasquez, during the last opening at the MLB level), as a back procedure/surgery kept Brennen out for the rest of the year.

69. (↓) Triston Casas             1B         BOS     23    MLB   2023  (MLB #15/#25 | Roto #18/#20/#21)

Casas possesses the ability to hit for power and average (but its average, average).  A slow start in AAA in 2022 tempered expectations before an injury brought the promotion talk to a stop.  When he returned, he hit well enough (overall .273 Avg, 11 HRs, .863 OPS, 264 ABs, 134 wRC+) to earn a promotion to the Sox where he hit just .197 with 5 HRs over 76 late season ABs.  Despite his size 6' 4", 252lbs, Casas doesn't strike out as much as other slugging 1B (21.0%) while possessing a decent walk rate (14.7%). 

70. (New) Wenceel Perez    2B/SS    DET   23.2   AA    2024  (MLB NR | Roto NR/#202/#373)

Wenceel broke out in a big way in 2022, batting .295, .902 OPS with 14 HRs while swiping 18 bags on his way to a .392 wOBA and 143 wRC+.  Wenceel's previous HR high was 4, but the speed was always there. MLB has him at just #15 in the DET top 30.  Obviously, this is another prospect we're high on that the rankings world hasn't caught up to.

71.  (New) Cole Waites        RP        SFG    24.6  MLB  2022  (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/NR)

We know, you're like Wait, who?  Cole Waites was pretty dominant in 2022 crossing three levels in MiLB (A+, AA and AAA) sporting a 1.94 ERA (#43 MiLB), 2.38 xFIP (3rd best), .168 Avg against (48th best MiLB) and an astounding 44.2% K rate (2nd best in MiLB) that is founded on a 100mph heater that he can throw, a lot, coming in as a reliever.  The Giants didn't waste a lot of time getting Cole into the bigs where we'll see him there again in 2023.

72. (↑) Mick Abel              RHP      PHIL    21.4   AA    2024  (MLB #54 | Roto #125/#158/#137)

Abel hasn't moved as fast as many would have hoped despite pretty good stuff (3 plus pitches, including a 99mph FB).  2022 was a bit more promising, as Mick advanced to AA where he held a 3.52 ERA  struck out 27 in 23 IP. FanGraphs has Mick at a 55FV and believes his curve will be his best pitch. 

73.  (↑) Harry Ford           C          SEA   19.3   A     2025   (MLB #85/#65 | Roto #107/#58/#56)

Ford is a highly touted athletic prospect that is Daulton Varsho 2.0 (the C/OF).  Ford struggled at the beginning of low A ball in Modesto (.248 Avg, .784 OPS)​​ before turning a corner and finishing with a .274 Avg, .863 OPS, 11 HRs and 23 SBs.  Ford should start out 2023 in A+ Everett (where we'll go watch him in person) and eventually make his way to AA Arkansas.  After that, a good year at AAA Tacoma in 2024/25 should have SEA considering a promotion to the bigs.  
74. (↑) Jordan Westburg      SS         BAL    23.11   AAA  2023   (MLB #94 | Roto #288/#112/#69)

It's rare that a prospect can hit so mediocre at AA (.247 Avg, 9 HRs, 3 SBs, 27.4% K rate) but then annihilate AAA. But that's what Jordan did at first (.319, .974 OPS, 22.5% K rate) before cooling off to a .273 AAA avg, .869 OPS. Still, on the  year, it was a decent body of work (wRC+126 #233 overall) with the 27 HRs standing out the most. Look for Jordan to join Gunnar in BALT's INF in 2023.

75.  (New) Kevin Parada       C         NYM   21.4      A       2025   (MLB #37 | Roto #86/#74)

The former college slugger (2022 11th overall pick) finds himself in an awkward position in NY with Alvarez being such a glamorized prospect.  And, defensively, Parada may not be an upgrade over Alvarez, so we're not sure of NYM's plan here.  But, look for Kevin to hit his way through the Minors and be ready for NY in 2025 (if he's not packaged in a trade for starting pitching before then).

76.  (New)  Clayton Beeter      RHP      NYY   24.3   AA       2023  (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/NR)

After being traded from the Dodgers, one of our favorite, but forgotten hurlers found some footing in AA  Somerset throwing 25.1 innings with a 2.13 ERA and 41K's.  Home runs were a problem in Tulsa for the hard throwing righty, but not at Somerset.  Look for NYY to promote Clayton to AAA in 2023 with a chance for Beeter to be better in the bigs.

77. (↓) Enmanuel Valdez      2B/3B    BOS  23   AAA   2023  (MLB NR | Roto NR/#218/#272)

It would be hard to spot Enmanuel in MLB's top 30 for HOU (before the trade to BOS), but you would have found him at #174 in the 2022 MiLB ranks (wRC+ 131) behind an OPS of .918 and 28 HRs (tied for 28th) and a relatively low K rate (21.6%) for a power guy. Speaking of power, its a lot coming from a guy that's just 5'9" (but 191lbs).

78. (New)  Zack Gelof             3B      OAK   23.3    AAA    2023  (MLB#94 | Roto#45/#61/#144)

A favorite of ours from 2021, Zack didn't hit as much for average in 2022 (.270 Avg) but still hit pretty well (.815 OPS, 18 HRs, 13 SBs) with the power numbers being roughly on pace with 2021 (though the speed numbers were down).  Zack has a good approach at the plate and an advanced swing and should end up playing in the Bay in 2023.

79.   (↓) Max Meyer         RHP      MIA       23.9     MLB    2022   (MLB #22/#43 | Roto #46/#119/#97)

As a result of two bad starts (giving up 14 earned runs over 8.1 IP), Meyer went from a sparkling 1.72 ERA, xFIP of 2.97 [30th among pitchers] and 39K's in 31.1 IPs to a rather ugly 4.54 ERA.  Those dismal outings were followed by elbow trouble (ulnar nerve), but Meyer returned on June 17th and was pretty good in 4 starts reducing his ERA from 4.54 to 3.69 (and xFIP to 3.57).  With a FB capable of triple digits and a wipeout slider, Meyer has two ++ pitches to pair with an average changeup. But, in the majors, Meyer's fastball averaged just 94.8 mph with a lot of direct contact (16.7% barrel rate).  While the average exit velocity off Meyer was high at 89.4 mph, that was the same as Gerrit Cole and Luis Severino with the metric separating the three being the barrel rate (as Cole was at 9.5% / Severino at 6.9%). After TJ surgery in August, Meyer may not pitch until 2024.

80.  (↓)  Orelvis Martinez      SS/3B    TOR   21.2   AA    2024   (MLB #37/#70 | Roto #119/#255/#254)

One of the youngest players in AA, Orelvis has mashed 30 HRs (#16 MiLB), but hit just .203 (.732 OPS) while striking out 28.5% of the time for a wRC+ of just 96 (#969 MiLB). Not good.  TOR would love to see Orelvis focus on reducing the K's and simply getting on base. Everyone knows the power is there, but can he hit enough to get to the majors?

81. (NC) Luis Campusano        C        SD       24.3    AAA     2022  (MLB #55/NR | Roto #241/NR/NR)

Luis keeps getting chances in the bigs (2020, 2021, 2022), but just hasn't hit enough to stick. But he had another good AAA campaign in 2022 -- batting .298, .846 OPS, 14 HRs across 319 ABs.  And yet, MLB has just dropped him everywhere.
82.  (↓)  Robert Hassell III       OF       WAS   21.4   A+  2023  (MLB #22| Roto #9/#45/#84)       

San Diego gave up a very promising prospect, but obviously received a generational talent in Soto. Hassell put  together a stellar campaign for the Padres in 2022 (Pre-trade), batting .299 with 10 HRs and 20 SBs (.846 OPS). But after the trade, things didn't go so well, and yet, the Nationals felt compelled to promote Hassell to AA despite struggling at their A+ affiliate (Wilmington).  Ideally Hassell finds a bit more power to go with what has really shown to be average speed.

83. (↓)  Zac Veen                  OF        COL   21.1   A+   2024   (MLB #23 | Roto #108/#126/#60)         

Speed is the name of the game for Veen. After a slow start at A+ ball in Spokane, Veen picked it up and earned a promotion to AA. But the overall line: .245 Avg, .724 OPS, 12 HRs, wRC+ of 104 (24.4% K rate) was not only not good, it was bad (#728 MiLB)...and that despite a whopping 55 SBs (13th in MiLB)

84. (New) Dylan Lesko        SP        SDP      19.4   ACL   2026  (MLB#98 | Roto #134/#123)

Dylan possesses three plus pitches (FB, Curve, Change) but didn't pitch after being drafted. The book on Dylan is unwritten so we'll see in 2023!

85. (New) Gavin Cross        OF        KC       21.11   A     2024  (MLB#72 | Roto #164/#133)

Wait, Gavin who?  Selected 9th overall by the Royals in 2022, Gavin may be a surprise top 100, but the kid can hit. And though it was a short sample in 2022 (109 ABs), Gavin put on a clinic: .312 Avg, 1.070 OPS, 8 HRs, 4 SBs.  He'll need to bring down the K's (24.8%) while continuing to be patient at the plate (23.2% BB rate)

86. (New) Shane Sasaki      OF      TBR      22.6    A+    2024  (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/#286)

How has the Hawaiian born Sasaki flown under the radar for so long (he's not even in MLB's top 30) and why did TB keep him in A all year?  We don't know.  But we do know that Shane hit .324 at Single A Charleston (while batting leadoff and playing CF) with a .907 OPS, .419 wOBA with 9 HRs and a whopping 47 SBs good for a wRC+ of 151 (#31 MiLB). 

87. (New) Elijah Green          OF    WAS   19.1    A    2025  (MLB#28 | Roto #33/#23)

The 2022 5th overall pick appeared to hit well in Rookie Ball (.302 Avg, .939 OPS, 2 HRs in 29 ABs) but the 21 K's (right about 50% of his ABs) tells another story.  Elijah will either start in A ball (or be there soon enough). If he wants to make it to A+ in 2023, he needs to get his K rate down into the 30% range.  Other than that, he's fast, with big power (and has a great future ahead).

88. (New) Adael Amador    SS          COL    19.8     A   2025  (MLB#61 | Roto #146/#128/#114)

Despite a very thin frame (6'0" 160lbs), Adael hit like Joey Gallo in A ball, posting a .292 Avg, .860 OPS, 26 SBs and a surprising 15 round trippers. Adael also has a great command of the plate (incredible for a 19 year old) as he drew 87 walks to just 67 K's.  Although the 128 wRC+ didn't place Adael very high (#213 MiLB) the .402 wOBA is a good indicator of future MLB success.

89. (New) Brock Porter      SP     TEX     19.5    ROK   2026  (MLB#89 | Roto #207/#214/#178)

Texas is stockpiling some top arms and Brock Porter is no exception.  MLB Pipeline's highest rated pitcher in the 2022 draft (and Baseball America's #7 overall) somehow fell to the 4th round and was scooped up by TEX who lured him away from Clemson.  Though we don't have any professional baseball stats yet, Brock has been clocked as high at 98 on his FB and pairs that with a good curve and a great changeup.

90. (New) Termarr Johnson    2B   PIT    18.5    A   2025  (MLB#29 | Roto #34/#20)

The 4th overall pick in the 2022 draft, Termarr wowed scouts with his patience at the plate, great hit tool and surprising power (from a 5'7" frame).  At 18, he held his own in low A, batting .275 with 1 HR and 4 SBs over 40 ABs.

91. (↓) Niko Kavadas          1B      BOS      24.3    AA   2024  (MLB NR | Roto NR/#96/#217)

Here we go digging into the deep ranks of prospects. But actually, we didn't have to dig too deep. This former 11th round pick was the MiLB leader in wOBA for a long while (with a .479 mark for players with 300+ PA's). That earned Niko a couple of promotions, eventually stopping at AA.  Overall on the year, Niko hit .280 with a .990 OPS and wRC+ of 170 (good for 5th best in MiLB).  Oh and that wOBA? That ended up at .446 (#11 in MiLB). That's pretty good, as were the 26 HRs, 86 RBIs .280 Avg across 393 PA's.  The K rate is far too high (29.5%) but Niko also walks a lot (19.8%).  BTW, Niko looks like that old school Boston player (think Kevin Millar), the kind of guy that you wouldn't know was an athlete if he was standing next to you at the store (but who goes out and gets it done). All said, we like what we've seen.  And if Triston Casas can't find success at the plate, BOS may give Niko a shot!
92. (↓) Jakson Reetz           C       KC       27     AAA    2023  (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/NR)

27 is our cut-off for prospects and we're not normally having too many who are actually 27.  But Jakson turns 27 on January 3rd and, plus, we really like him.  Even though he was released by MIL in 2022 (after 1st being added to the 40 man), he was named the AA Southern League's MVP. How about that? You play that good and get released? And, it wasn't just good, but real good (.281 Avg, 22 HRs, 58 RBIs in 273 PA's, 165 wRC+).  Overall on the year (AA and AAA), Jakson hit .264, .934 OPS with a 141 wRC+ (#78 MiLB).  KC is loaded at catcher (Salvador Perez, MJ Melendez) so what are they going to do here?

93. (NC) Colson Montgomery   SS   CHW  20.11   AA    2025 (MLB#57 | Roto #71/#44/#55)

We liked Colson coming out of the 2021 draft.  But year 1 in ROK ball was pretty uneventful (.287 Avg, .758 OPS, 94 ABs, 0 HRs, 0 SBs).  Colson turned it up a bit in year in low A where he hit .324 (.900 OPS) with 4 HRs over 170 ABs. That production led to a promotion to A+ that Colson managed with a .258 Avg, .804 OPS and 5 HRs over 132 ABS. That line though, was not deserving of a promotion to AA, but CHW did it anyway, only to see Colson hit .146 over 48 ABs (with 15 K's to 2 BB's). Overall on the year, Colson's wRC+ came in at 125 (good for #252 among MiLBers)

94. (New) Carson Williams     SS     TBR    19.5     A      2025  (MLB#81 | Roto #145/#118/#150)

Carson could compete with Colson for best young SS in the years to come. At just 19, Carson batted .252 and hit 19 HRs at Single A Charleston while stealing 28 bases. But, struck out a whopping 168 times (in 452 ABs) (33% K rate)

95. (↓)  Oswald Peraza           SS     NYY   22     AAA    2023   (MLB#50 | Roto #162/#30/#24)

Oswald got off ice cold but got on a roll to earn a promotion to the big leagues where he hit .306 across 49 ABs. Not a bad audition.  And, it was better than Oswald hit in AAA: .259, .777 OPS, 19 HRs, 33 SBs good for a wRC+ of just 106 (#663 in MiLB).

96. (↓) Marco Luciano         SS/3B     SFG       21   AA     2024   (MLB #9/#16 | Roto #36/#47/#63)

Remember when some boards were touting Marco as the #1 overall prospect?  Hello overshoot.  After a horrendous 2021 campaign in A+ where Marco ranked something like 220 out of 240 A+ ball eligible IF/shortstops, Luciano tried to rebound in 2022 [.269 Avg, .817 OPS, 11 HRs, 257 PA's]. This isn't a great line, but the overall body of work wRC+ of 126 placed him at around #400 of eligible MiLB players, which will likely earn Marco a promotion to AA to start 2023.  And when he gets there, Marco should work on increasing his patience at the plate (and bring up the BB rate from 10.1%).

97. (New) Alec Burleson    OF       STL       24.2    AAA   2022  (MLB#88 | Roto #242/#155/#147)

The 6'2" burly Burleson pretty much blasted his way into the top 100 (and the Cards lineup) hitting .331 (.904 OPS) in Memphis with 20 HRs and just 67 K's. 

98. (↑) Wilmer Flores           RHP     DET   21.10  AA  2023 (MLB#100 | Roto #127/#152/#191)

There's a lot to like about Wilmer. The 6'4" righty pitched to a 2.79 ERA with 130 K's in 103.1 IP in 2021 with just 23 walks and 10 HRs given up. While FanGraphs gives Flores just a 40+ grade, you have to like his +FB (98mph) and +curve and, we have to recognize the 56th best xFIP in MiLB: 3.10

99. (New) Owen White     RHP     TEX      23.4     AA     2023  (MLB#59 | Roto #170/#232#161)

Although he didn't dominate A+ in 2022 (3.99 ERA) the 81 K's in 58.2 IP caught a lot of folks' attention, including TEX brass who promoted Owen to AA Frisco where he pitched even better (2.49 ERA, 23 K's in 21.2 Innings to just 4 BBs).  FanGraphs grades Owen at a 50 with his slider being his best pitch (off a FB that sits 92-95).  Pinpoint accuracy is also in the repertoire and Owen will need it if he can't generate more power behind his offerings.

100. (↓) Liover Peguero        SS       PIT       22.1    AA    2022   (MLB #44/#64 | Roto #51/#249/#290)

Liover started 2022 super hot, hitting for power and stealing bases.  When PIT needed help at SS due to injury, the Pirates went with Liover over Cruz, but after his short stint in the majors, Liover returned to Altoona to put up some pretty poor numbers for a final line of .259, .692 OPS, 10 HRs, 28 SBs for an wRC+ of just 88 good for #1123 in MiLB. For a contact guy, Liover needs to work on getting on base as his wOBA of .306 is really bad.