2024 PROSPECT RANKINGS 2.0
THE TOP 195: 3/19/24
Welcome to the second edition of our 2024 rankings (version 2.0).
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Before we launch into this edition of our 2024 Top Prospects, remember the thing about our ranks is that they are premised more on the production side (with higher level production having even greater weight -- i.e. what a prospect does at AAA is given higher regard than what happens at AA, A+, A, rookie ball -- especially considering the drop in production that most players experience after promotion). This is where we really differ from MLB Pipeline, Rotowire and others (especially MLB Pipeline, which historically also used a defensive component in their ranks).
This brings us to the next point, and that's why you should consider using our ranks. You should consider using our ranks because we're simply not regurgitating information from other ranks; instead, we are valuing players differently -- giving a real fantasy value that you can use to get ahead of your league rivals before the traditional ranks catch up! So, our goal is to be ahead of the rankings curve. We don't need the big ranking boards to tell us how good a player is, we already know, and aren't afraid to be out there first (like we were on Tyler Black and Connor Phillips and now on dozens, dozens more). So, take a chance with us and you may end up getting top talent before anyone else does! (of course, we're not going to hit on everyone: i.e. take Matt Gorski and Moises Gomez 2022 vs 2023).
As an aside, the MLB Pipeline and Roto ranks update fairly often (without an official release), so it can be hard to get a good historical comparator for those sites, but we try where we can. Speaking of MLB Pipeline, two forms of flattery occur (1) when MLB Pipeline follows us by ranking someone we've ranked first, and, (2) even better, when the big league club calls up a guy we've recognized before MLB Pipeline had them on the radar. And don't get us wrong, we love the guys over at MLB Pipeline, as that's the gold standard, but we think we can and do provide an assist.
Our Prospect ranks use indicators (↑) or (↓) showing movement from our last ranks, "New" for new to our list or NC for no change. Each player has a position noted, current team, current age, expected level for 2023, expected date to debut or date debuted. And finally, the last item of note is that we've tried to highlight the biggest departures between our ranks and that of MiLB Pipeline. Where we've elevated a prospect (noting a higher rank than MLB), we've highlighted that in yellow. Where we've demoted/devalued the player compared to MLB Pipeline, we've gone with blue (as in "cold" for us).
And off we go....
**The Note stuff:
1. We've graduated guys that are currently in the majors (who have accumulated 125PAs or 25IP) and these players are listed at the end of our top 205.
2. Sometimes we'll use A and A+ to designate the two Single A levels and sometimes we use "Low" A and "High" A, which leads us to guess a bit in Spring Training (as not even the players know yet where they'll be)
2024 MLB Season (3/19/24)
Top 195 Prospects 2.0
Top 5
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Jackson Holliday (BAL SS)
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Coby Mayo (BAL 3B)
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Evan Carter (TEX OF)
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Paul Skenes (PIT SP)
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Wyatt Langford (TEX OF)
1. (NC) Jackson Holliday SS BALT 20.3 AAA 2024 (MLB#13/#9/#1 | Roto #12/#15/#1/#2)
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. Then came 2023 and Jackson not only figured out low A (.396 Avg, 1.182 OPS), but A+ (.314 Avg, .940 OPS, 5 HRs, 17 SBs over 207 ABs) and AA (where the hit parade continued: .338 Avg/.928 OPS (142 ABs). We really want to be bearish here (and we weren't really impressed at the 2023 futures game), but he's obviously really really good already (with a 159 career wRC+, 4th best since 2019, min. 600 PAs, tied with Corbin Carroll) and only going to get better -- and the numbers he's putting up at this age at these levels are incredible (for any age). So, despite our desire to play contrarian and diverge a bit from MLB Pipeline, Roto and everyone else here, it is what it is, Holliday has earned #1. And ST only confirmed that. The only intrigue here is when will he debut.....
2. (↑) Coby Mayo 3B BAL 22.3 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/#76/#27/#30 | Roto #54/#60/#67/#32/#20)
At 6'5" 215+, Coby just looks like a 3B of the future. But, in 2022, the production didn't meet the projection as Coby hit fairly average in A+ (.251, .820 OPS, 14 HRs, 255 ABs, 62 K's) and AA (.250 Avg, .729 OPS, 5 HRs, 128 ABs, 50 K's). The wRC+ in 2022 (110) was even worse, placing Coby at just #546 among MiLB players. But, at just 21 (AA average was 23.8), Coby could afford to repeat and ace the AA test, which, in 2023, he did with a .307 Avg / 1.027 OPS, 17 HRs, 4 SBs across 347 PA's with a 14.7% walk rate (and a .296 ISO) powering Coby to not only a good wRC+, but at 177, the best in MiLB (min 150 PA's, 200 PA's 300 PA's!). That led to a promotion to AAA where Coby continued to hold his own (.267 Avg., .905 OPS, 217 ABs). Coby hasn't just taken a step forward, he's put himself in the big league promotion discussion. But, as loaded as Baltimore is, hold the Mayo, and let Coby tackle AAA!
3. (↑) Evan Carter OF TEX 21.7 MLB 2023 (MLB #56/#41/#11/#8/#5 | Roto #63/#29/#35/#31/#12)
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 (and which was needed after an underwhelming 2021 campaign in A ball -- .236 Avg, .825 OPS, 2 HRs over 106 ABs). That 2022 line generated a lot of buzz for 2023, with comps to Corbin Carroll's game, so what would Evan do? How about a .296 Avg, .889 OPS, 10 HRs and 11 SBs across 312 AA PAs (good for a 138 wRC+)...That also earned Evan a taste of the bigs where he hit .306/1.058 OPS over 62 ABs with 5 HRs! With a career MiLB 139 wRC+, good walk rates and very good speed (though that grade has dipped this year), Evan Carter is an exciting fantasy prospect and not only moves into our top 10 but, for us, jumps consensus #2 Jackson Chourio!
4. (↑) Paul Skenes RHP PIT 21.4 AA 2024 (MLB #3 | Roto #8)
The #1 pick in the 2023 MLB draft is legit and as about a no doubter as you can find. From his incredible, high 90s fastball (pumping 100-101 in his spring training starts) to his wipeout slider, the 6'6" 250lb Skenes was striking out nearly 50% of the batters he faced in the toughest conference in college baseball. As we expected last year, Skenes is going to be fast-tracked to the bigs, but his journey ended in AA in 2023 where he pitched just
two games (and 2.2 IP, 4 ER, 3 hits, 2BBs, 5 K's). Don't be put off by the short sample in 2023, as Skenes is ready to start in Pittsburg right now and will debut in 2024 (though it'll be short, and on an innings limitation, and maybe as a high leverage reliever!).
5. (↑) Wyatt Langford OF TEX 22.4 AAA 2024 (MLB #13/#6 | Roto #3/#1)
We were surprised that Wyatt was passed by DET at #3 (as the Tigers chose to go with a HS OF over the MLB ready University of Florida star). But, as we surmised last August, that didn't deter Wyatt who quickly shot up to AAA (demolishing pitching all the way through for the #1 wRC+ in MiLB (199) (min. 200 PAs). Then came Spring Training, check, no problem there Now we're starting the clock on how soon Wyatt will be starting for the WS champ Rangers. As of 3-19-24 Wyatt has breezed through 45 ABs with 12 Runs, 5 HRs, 17 RBIs a .378 AVG and 1.198 OPS. Wow. This guy will make the World Series Champ Rangers better, right now.
Top 6-10
​6. Jackson Chourio (MIL OF)
7. Colt Keith (DET 3B)
8. Chase DeLauter (CLE OF)
9. Junior Caminero (TB 3B)
10. Tyler Black (MIL 3B)
6. (↑) Jackson Chourio OF MIL 20.00 MLB 2024 (MLB #38/#10/#8/#5/#2 | Roto #89/#5/#6/#2)
The Brewer's top prospect started out hot in 2022 (.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 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 "stoked" a promotion to AA where 23 ABs just weren't enough time to evaluate (but 11 K's in those first 23 ABs made us think that
promotion came too early). For 2022 as a whole, Jackson's line resulted
in a wRC+ of 135 (123rd overall) and put Jackson squarely on everyone's
prospect radar (especially because of his age: 18), making Jackson a top 5
candidate (including at MLB Pipeline and Roto). In 2023, the Brew Crew
chose to keep Jackson at AA (as the youngest player there, at least at the
time), where over his first 322 PAs, he put together a below average:
.249 Avg/.714 OPS 21.4% K rate (89 wRC+). But then something clicked,
and Jackson went on a tear, raising his line to a .280 Avg/.851 OPS, 18.4%
K rate (112 wRC+). Now, the overall line wasn't great, nor is the career 123 wRC+. They're good, just not "great". The prospects sitting at or around a career 123 wRC+ (and having started pro ball at 17 like Jackson) include Luis Matos, Kyren Paris, Kevin Alcantara, Noelvi Marte, Rodolfo Nolasco, Christian Santana, Victor Bericoto, Omar Martinez, Moises Ballesteros and Marco Luciano (none of whom are guaranteed All Stars, or starters at this point or even 2024 major leaguers). Among all AA players with 500+ PAs in AA, Chourio finished 16th on that list for the year. That's not bad, and he was the youngest (Owen Cassie and Jasson Dominguez both hit better but were a year older). In the last 13 years, there were only a handful of players that hit better than Chourio at age 19 in AA (Nomar Mazara 157 wRC+, Isaac Paredes 142 wRC+, Jurickson Profar 127 wRC+). Chourio has great potential and while he's not jumping off the board in any category (.186 ISO, 6.9 SPD rating, .358 wOBA), those are solid numbers (especially for a 19 y.o.) And, Chourio held his own in Spring Training in 2024 (where he also looked like he's gained some good weight), earning his way onto the big league club (the long term contract signed before he played a major inning helped the cause too).
7. (↑) Colt Keith 3B DET 22.7 MLB 2024 (MLB NR/#87/#39/#25/#22 | Roto #202/#77/#73/#7/#13)
You may remember Colt's name from our SPOW ranks, as in 2022 he batted .301, .914 OPS, 9 HRs, 3 3Bs and 4 SBs over 216 PA's for a wRC+ of 150. Fast forward to 2023 and a promotion to AA and it was even better for Colt: .325 Avg / .976 OPS, 18 2Bs, 14 HRs over 276 PAs for an outstanding wRC+ of 162 Wow! 🚀🚀🚀🚀 With that line, Colt earned a promotion to AAA where he batted .287 (.890 OPS). Overall on the year, Colt returned a top 20 wRC+ of 140 (min 500 PAs). Among the numbers that stand out are good power (.247 ISO), a great wOBA (.405) and a modest K rate 21.0%. Colt will debut as Detroit's starting 3B out of the gate in 2024.
8. (↑) Chase DeLauter OF CLE 22.5 AA 2024 (MLB#85/#31) | Roto#68/#30)
Although the power was absent (.173 ISO), Chase had no problem hitting for average (.355 over 3 classes in 2023, 214 ABs, 159 wRC+). But the 6'4" 235 LB slugger has all the nature tools to hit the ball out of the park and perhaps just needs to tweak his launch angle to improve HR%. But we're not worried, Chase D is a star in the making.
9. (↓) Junior Caminero 3B/SS TBR 20.8 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/#60/#16/#6/#4 | Roto #123/#81/#54/#40/#6/#4)
Joining the Jackson duo (Holliday & Chourio) as the young phenoms
of the year is Junior Caminero. As good as Caminero was in 2022 when he hit .299, .864 OPS, 6 HRs, 2 SBs in just 26 Low A games, he was even better across two levels in 2023 (A+: .356 Avg/1.094 OPS, 9 2bs, 3 3bs, 11 HRs // AA: .309 Avg / .921 OPS, 5 HRs, 314 PAs) equating to the 9th best wRC+ (156) in MiLB (min. 400 PAs). That in turn led TB to give Junior a taste of life in teh bigs. If Caminero has a great Spring, he may end up at Tropicana to start the year, otherwise, we'd expect him to be assigned to AAA Durham. To have just turned 20 and be hitting better than average in AA was pretty good. To make your major league debut before you could enter a bar? Priceless. Caminero just gives off what feels like a major league vibe. Think a mini-Vlad here! We are!
10. (↓) Tyler Black 1B/3B/OF MIL 23.7 AA 2024 (MLB NR/#96/#51/#46 | Roto #202/#51/#37)
Let it all ride on Black! After a slow start to AA (batting average wise: .225), Tyler put it together to hit .273/.924 OPS, 16% BB rate (to a 20% K rate), 16 2Bs, 8 3Bs, 14 HRs (previous career high was 4), 47 SBs (pvs career high was 13) resulting in a 146 AA wRC+ (8th best among players with 300+ PAs). That line earned Tyler a promotion to AAA, where he continued with a positive numbers. With speed and tenacity and the ability to play 3 infield positions (and potentially even Center, as he did in 2022) look for Tyler to make MIL's opening day roster. And if you don't believe us, maybe you'll take Chourio's praise:
“I love hitting behind Black,” Chourio said of his teammate for half of last season in Biloxi. “I love being in the same lineup with him. I like the confidence that he carries himself with and how he plays the game.”
Top 11-15
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​11. Jackson Jobe (DET SP)
12. Jacob Misiorowski (MIL SP)
13. Dylan Crews (WAS OF)
14. Ricky Tiedemann (TOR SP)13.
15. Brock Porter (TEX SP)
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11. (↑) Jackson Jobe SP DET 21.8 AA 2024 (MLB#25/#38/#63/NR/#100/#54/#25 | Roto#139/#169/#72/#21)
We weren't as enamored by Jackson coming out of the draft (as MLB Pipeline was), nor were we smitten with MLB's initial #25 rank. Jackson then got out to a 5.09 ERA in Single A and just 43 K's in 40.2 IPs before rebounding to a 4.52 line in 18 starts (71K's in 61.2 IP). The rebound earned him a promotion to A+ (just 15.2 IP there in 2022 with good early results). The hard throwing righty (he hit 101 this Spring!) had a 50 grade on FanGraphs (reduced to 45+) got out to a late start in 2023, starting in Low A before advancing back to A+ where he went 40 IP with 54 K's and a 3.60 ERA. Both Pipeline and Rotowire are all over the place on Jackson. But, we can now all agree on one thing, Jackson is cemented in the top 25. But even higher for us due to the 32.6% K rate and the #1 xFIP (2.33) in MiLB (min. 60 IP).
12. (↓) Jacob Misiorowski SP MIL 21.11 AA 2024 (MLB #90/#86/#46/#36/#33 | Roto #52)
Jacob's first 54 IP in 2023 across A/A+/AA resulted in a stellar 2.98 ERA/1.09 WHIP, 79K's and just a .159 BAA (which had been an even more remarkable .135, along with a 2.53 ERA before giving up 4 ERs in 4 IP in his 7/22 AA debut). In fact, the first two AA starts were really bad (6.1 IP, 9 ERs, 6 HBP, 7 BBs, 12.79 ERA). We'll call it nerves as the lanky 6'7" fireballer settled after that, throwing 14.2 Innings with just 4 ERs allowed, 9 BBs, and an incredible 29 K's. After watching Misiorowski pump 100mph FB after 100 mph FB while striking out the side in the 2023 Futures Game (though, ironically, on non-fastballs, like it wasn't even fair), players weren't saying
"Misiorowski", they were saying "Miserablerowski!" And, after the game, we had the great pleasure of talking to Jacob as and came away as impressed with him as a person as we were with him as a future frontline SP1. Look for great things from the young fireballer, and go get him while he's still undervalued in other ranks, as he won't be for long. While Jacob was #2 for us in our initial pre-season ranks, we watched him pitch on 3/18 and though sitting at 95-96, he continued to struggle with command (walking 3 and hitting 2 batters); and yet was unhittable when he threw it over the plate (0 hits, 5 K's over 2.2 IP). As he acknowledged after the game, it's just mental for him "stop thinking, just throw the ball". Well for now, we're thinking a top 15 is a better spot than top 3.
13. (↓) Dylan Crews OF WAS 22.1 AA 2024 (MLB #4/#7 | Roto #4/#9)
The #2 draft pick (and the best hitter in college baseball) struggled after a promotion to AA (.208 Avg/.596 OPS) and then followed that up with a dismal Spring Training (.143 Avg, 11 K's over 28 ABs). But with above average power, hit tools and speed, Dylan will get it figured out. He just needs a year in the upper minors (AA and AAA).
14. (↓) Ricky Tiedemann LHP TOR 21.5 AAA 2024 (MLB#64/#32/#26/#31 | Roto #78/#19/#30/#45/#26)
Ricky exploded on our boards in 2022 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 last 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 be majors bound. Though a biceps strain sidelined Ricky in May/June to start 2023, he ended up pitching 42 innings (16.31 K/9), including 32 IP at AA where a 2.48 xFIP more accurately measured his success than the 5.06 ERA. I think we need to remind everyone how good Ricky is (but Spring Training 2024 didn't show exactly show us that: 3.2 IP, 3 ERs, 1 HR allowed, though with 3 K's).
15. (↓) Brock Porter SP TEX 20.9 A+ 2026 (MLB#94/#80/#60/#88 | Roto #207/#214/#178/#235)
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. Brock has been clocked as high at 98 on his FB and pairs that with a good curve and a great changeup and the early results in Low A have been great: 69.1 IP, 95 K's, 2.47 ERA, .160 BAA, 1.17 WHIP.
Top 16-20
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​16. Tink Hence (STL SP)
17. Colton Cowser (BAL OF)
18. Ben Rice (NYY 1B/C)
19. Sam Basallo (BAL C/1B)
20. Pete Crow-Armstrong (CHC OF)
16. (NC) Tink Hence SP STL 21.7 AA 2024 (MLB NR/#91/#77/#64 | Roto #298/#69/#91/#44)
We kept an eye on Tink Hence in 2022, even before a mid-west scout contacted
us about how good Tink was ("Think Tink" he said). But, initially we were too
bearish on Tink (as was Fangraphs with just a 40+ FV) -- despite his dominance
in2022 in Low A (52.1 IP, 81 K's, 15 BB's, .88 WHIP and an MiLB leading 1.94
xFIP) 2023 was more of the same -- 46 K's in 41.2 High A IP with a 2.81 ERA,
1.10 WHIP which earned Tink a promotion to AA where he started good -- 15 IP,
11 K's 1.80 ERA -- but ended bad (5.47 ERA, 54.1 IP, 53 K's, 60 Hits, .283 BAA,
1.51 WHIP) But look, he's just 21. With 3 plus grade pitches: change, curve and
a FB that can hit 99 but sits 95-97, Fangraphs increased Tink's FV to 50 for
2023). He'll figure out AA in 2024 and should be promoted to AAA before the
year is up. On a personal level, meeting Tink at the 2023 Futures Game in Seattle (on 7/8/23 where he struck out 1 over 1 IP) confirmed cool vibe status!
17. (NC) Colton Cowser OF BAL 24.0 MLB 2023 (MLB #40/#31/#14/#19 | Roto #143/#15/#19/#41)
And the run on pitchers stops! A meteoric riser in the MLB ranks was this guy, Colton Cowser. While 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), MLB Pipeline lagged behind Roto in recognizing Colton's value. But in 2023 when Colton got off to a fast start in AAA, earning him a promotion to the bigs on 7/5/23, MiLB followed suit. But the MLB promotion was not a hit (.115 Avg / .434 OPS) and the promotion was shot-lived. Still, the AAA year was a success (.300 Avg, .937 OPS, 17 HRs, 9 SBs, 399 PAs for a 136wRC+ (#76, players w/ 300+ PAs). But, was it elite? That wRC+ comes in 16th among AAA players, tied with Tyler Nevin and behind such players as Keston Hiura (137), Davis Schneider (142), Michael Busch (150), Christian Encarnacion Strand (155).
18. (NC) Ben Rice 1B/C NYY 25.1 AA 2024 (MLB NR/NY#30/NY#21/NY#13 | Roto #125)
What do we do with Ben Rice? I mean, he outhit Austin Wells who is the Yanks catcher in waiting (not to mention Pipeline's #7 NYY prospect). But then again, Rice outhit just about everyone else (everyone with at least 300 ABs). With an overall wRC+ of 183, Ben Rice put up the best MiLB year batting .324/ 1.048 OPS, .291 ISO, 5.4 Spd, .462 wOBA including .327 at AA with 16 HRs and 7 SBs for a wRC+ of 182 which was also tops in AA (min 200 ABs). Batting from the left side, we liked what we saw from Ben in Somerset in September. And, maybe best of all, he's a catcher 1st (and first basemen 2nd) which should help a quick ascent to the bigs (as long as he is able to hit AAA pitching in 2024).
19. (NC) Samuel Basallo C/1B BALT 19.7 AA 2025 (MLB#92/#46/#17 | Roto #123/#56)
Kudos to MLB Prospects on this one as they were out front on Basallo -- despite poor Fangraphs projections (at the time) and despite our leaving him off our own top 175. Basallo convinced us otherwise in 2023 by returning the 3rd best wRC+ (162) in MiLB (min 400 PAs) with a .313 Avg, .953 OPS, .239 ISO, 6.3 Spd and .434 wOBA. At just 19, Sam earned promotions all the way to AA (after knocking out 20 HRs in 467 PAs while swiping 12 bases). And with a low K rate (17.4% in A+) coupled with good patience (16.5 BB%), Basallo is an OBP machine.
20. (NC) Pete Crow-Armstrong OF CHC 22.0 AAA 2023 (MLB#28/#23/#15/#7/#12/#16 | Roto#23/#44/#65/#30/#17)
In 2022, 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. The jump to AA in 2023 was more of the same (.289 Avg /.898 OPS, 14 HRs and 27 SBs, 342 PA's -- good for a 136 wRC+). But the promotion to AAA came with bumps (29.7% k rate, 106 wRC+). Still, Chicago gave Pete C-A 19 PA's in the bigs. Although we'd expect Pete to start in AAA and earn his way back to Wrigley, it's possible that a strong Spring pushes Pete into the Chicago opening day lineup.
Top 21-25
21. Walker Jenkins (MIN OF)
22. Lazaro Montes (SEA OF)
23. Connor Phillips (CIN SP)
24. Wikelman Gonzalez (BOS SP)
25. Chase Dollander (COL SP)
21. (NC) Walker Jenkins OF MN 19.1 A 2026 (MLB #16/#10 | Roto #7)
We're probably too low on the Twins' 5 tool, toolsy top prospect (and 2023 draft #5 overall), but we'd just like to see more professional ABs.
22. (NC) Lazaro Montes OF SEA 19.5 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/SEA #12 | Roto #199/#93/#107/#121/#81/#28)
The 6'3" Lazaro Montes was literally 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 put Lazaro on everyone's radar. But,
a less than ideal K rate was cause for concern. In 2023, Lazaro was
promoted to the ACL then Class A where, across 156 PAs, Lazaro hit
.321 with 7 HRs for a .994 OPS and 165 wRC+. Lazaro walks a lot (13.5% in A ball) and worked on reducing his K rate to 25%. Lazaro should start 2024 at High A Everett where we're excited to see him in person.
23. (NC) Connor Phillips RHP CIN 22.10 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/#100/#68/#70 | Roto #397/#139)
Sporting a plus fastball (averaging 96.4 in MLB) and at least average secondary pitches, Connor had been one of 2023's best hurlers in AA: 3.34 ERA, 64.2 IP, and a whopping 111 K's (the 15.34 K/9 rate was 2nd in AA, min 50 IP)! Then came the promotion to AAA. Despite a good start, the 3.16 AAA ERA Connor had on 8/13/23 ballooned to 4.69 by 8/31 (40.1 IP) with walks being the biggest hindrance. The K rate also fell from 15.00 to around 9.00 K/9. Nevertheless, Connor was promoted to the bigs in September and received his first start on 9/5 (as maybe could have been imagined, it didn't go well: 5 ERs, 6 IP but 7 K's). Overall, the 20.2 innings Connor pitched on the big league level resulted in an unspectaculat 6.97 ERA but 26 K's and a survivable 1.50 WHIP resulting in an expected ERA of 4.67. We're confident Connor is going to have a better year 2 in the bigs. Will he be a dominant starter? Maybe not, but he should be a good SP2/3.
24. (NC) Wikelman Gonzalez SP BOS 22.0 AA 2024 (MLB NR/ BOS #11/BOS#9 | Roto#147/#103)
Although Wikelman carried a poor 5.14 ERA in A+, it was deceptively so as the 3.56 FIP gave us a better picture (though BBs raised his WHIP). And, Wikelman managed to strike out an incredible 105 batters in 63 IP. That missing bats ability carried Wikelman through 10 strong AA starts (48.1 IP -- 2.42 ERA). With a plus fastball, and an above average curve and change, Wikelman sneaks into our top 25 on a 13.58 K/9 rate -- best in MiLB (min. 100 IP).
25. (NC) Chase Dollander RHP COL 22.3 ----- 2025 (MLB #59 | Roto NR)
We love the fit with Colorado as Chase slots in as the Rockies best pitching prospect (by a lot) and, maybe, their #1 overall prospect (Pipeline says #3). With a high 90s fastball and wipeout slider (plus a good change and curve), Chase possesses the arsenal to step in as the Rockies SP1 (like now!) Unlike most of his 2023 draft compatriots, Chase didn't pitch in pro ball in 2023 so we'll have to wait and see where he ends up.
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Top #26-#50
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26. (↑) Heston Kjerstad OF BALT 25.1 MLB 2023 (MLB #53/#36/#24/#32 | Roto #125/#25/#33)
Serious medical issues prevented Heston from beginning pro ball with his draft mates, but since he was cleared to play, the former Razorback rolled through 4 classes of the minors (compiling a 133 wRC+ in 2023 over 543 PA's with a .303 Avg/.904 OPS and .397 wOBA good for a 133 wRC+, placing him tied at #29 among MiLB players with 500+ PAs). Heston rode that success all the way to MLB for 33 PA's in 2023 (sending Colton Coswer back down).
27. (↑) Thomas Saggese 2B/3B STL 21.11 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/ STL#9 | Roto #59)
Rotowire really likes Thomas Saggese and we can't blame them. Over the past 2 seasons (across A,AA, AAA), Thomas has hit .320 / .950 OPS (with good power and speed: .243 ISO/6.6 Spd) returning the 3rd best wRC+ (144) among players with 500+ PAs. That's pretty impressive, as were the 26 HRs and 12 SBs in 2023 (all while maintaining a K rate under 25% (23%).
28. (↓) Noelvi Marte SS CIN 22.5 MLB 2023 (MLB#29/#23/#16/#23/#21 | Roto #37/#43/#10)
After a slow start in 2023, Noelvi turned it on (much liked he did in 2022 when he hit .279 Avg, .829 OPS, 19 HRs, 10 SBs for an wRC+ of 131 -- good for #164 in MiLB). But, 2023 wasn't as successful as 2022, despite the promotion to the bigs. In 2023, in AA, Noelvi put together a line of .281/.820 OPS, 8 HRs, 10 Sbs (222 PAs) (117 wRC+), which earned him a promotion to AAA where he hit .280/.821 OPS over 167 PAs (105 wRC+). Though, over 123 MLB PAs, Marte hit .316 /.822 OPS (good for a 120 wRC+) While we've often wondered why we and everyone else continue to rank Noelvi so high when his stat lines are good, but not top 25 good, the thing is, like with Chourio, Noelvi is young for his level, and if you watch him in games, both the ABs and play are good. So, while we constantly value production over projection, Noelvi is more on the projection side (and suprised everyone with the well above average MLB production). But, now came a performance enhancing drug suspension and Noelvi is out 80 games (plus then minor league rehab and his star power has taken a hit).
29. (NC) Jordan Lawlar SS ARI 21.8 AAA 2023 (MLB#12/#11/#5/#10/#11 | Roto #5/#3/#6)
The 6th overall pick of 2021 had, at times, looked to be the best of the 2021 draft class, 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). In 2022, 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). But a repeat of AA in 2023 was an improvement: .263 Avg/.840 OPS 15 HRs, 33 SBs, 11.5% BB rate, 21.7 K rate over 410 PAs for a 122 wRC+ and .378 wRC+. That decent (but not super) line led to a promotion to AA where he excelled in 80 PA's (150 wRC+) leading to a suprising late season promotion to the bigs (that did not go well). At just 21, we'd expect Jordan to start out in AAA and if he can maintain the success he had in 2023, he'll be back up to the bigs, this time to stay.
30. (NC) Emmanuel Rodriguez OF MN 21.1 A+ 2025 (MLB#88/#76/#58/#48/#42 | Roto NR/#62/#53/#39/#75/#362)
In 2022, 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 was 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 boasted 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). Emmanuel's Spring Training 2023 got off to a positive start, but the campaign at A+ ball didn't: .197 Avg, .797 OPS (to start). While he recovered to a .240 Avg, .863 OPS (16 HRs/20 SBs, 455 PAs and a 145 wRC+ helped by a 20.2% BB rate) a very, very alarming 29.5 K rate has us concerned. Emmanuel was trying to hit everything out of the park, and, after that has failed, retooled a bit. In our mind, he'll also need to repeat A+.
31. (NC) Blake Dunn OF CIN 25.6 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/CIN#30/CIN#22/CIN#11 | Roto NR/#181)
Blake Dunn has been good, real good - across three years and four levels. In 2022, the former 15th rounder hit .290 / .963 OPS with 4 HRs and 18 SBs (across 127 Class A PAs), good for a 179 wRC+. in 2023, to follow that up, the bearded wonder dominated High A to the tune of .276 / .871 OPS, 8 HRs, 19 SBs (202 PAs) for a 149 wRC+. Not too bad, but Blake was a little old for A+ ball, so CIN promoted him to AA Chatanooga where, guess what? He also mashed: .332 Avg/ .989 OPS, 15 HRs, 35 Steals (357 PAs). Maybe "mash" isn't the right way to describe it and maybe its more like "wow, SPOW" as the 158 career wRC+, 8.7 Spd grade and .204 ISO have us excited about the Speed/Power Combo we love. Look for Blake in Louisville's lineup in 2024. And while we too our horn for the first to have Blake in any top 100, we would have him higher if not for his age.
32. (NC) Joe Boyle SP OAK 24.7 AA 2024 (MLB NR/CIN#28/OAK#20/OAK#10 | Roto NR/#152)
We liked Boyle even before he was traded to Oakland where he caught everyone's attention with his big league debut (3 starts, 16 IP, 15 K's 1.69 ERA, 2-0). The 6'7" Joe Boyle and his 3.29 career ERA over 237.2 IP is really good, but what pops is the 362 K's. With a 12.89 K/9 rate in 2023, Boyle was 4th in MiLB (100+ IP). That K rate is based on some serious gas (which averaged 97.8 in MLB). The only hiccup for big Joe has been an unsustainable walk rate (7.13 BB/9) which was 3rd worst in MiLB in 2023 - 100+ IP. That walk rate had folks talking about future "reliever" stuff, but both we and the Athletics believed that Joe was a frontline starter, and he is! And look what the A's have? Joe Boyle followed by Mason Miller, wow, good luck facing that.
33. (NC) James Wood OF WAS 21.6 AA 2024 (MLB #91/#34/#17/#8/#4/#7/#14 | Roto #65/#11/#18/#22/#19)
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 pretty athletic for his height, gets on base (career .439 wOBA) and doesn't strike out a ton (career 23.3% K rate). But, Wood hit a bit of a wall in 2023 in AA where he batted just .248/.826 OPS (but still had 18 HRs and 10 SBs across 368 PAs. And, like Vaun Brown, Wood holds a very good career wRC+ (143) (just behind Francisco Alvarez and ahead of Elly De La Cruz).
34. (NC) Joey Loperfido 1B/OF HOU 24.10 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/HOU#16/HOU#6 | Roto NR/NR/NR/#135)
How can such a big guy (6'3" 220) be so good at stealing bases? We don't know but 32 bags was pretty good in 2022, especially when it comes with a .438 wOBA (A+ ball) and a wRC+ of 166 at that level. So what could Joey do in 2023? AA was great: a .296 Avg, .940 OPS, 19 HRs and 20 SBs over 364 PAs equating to a 143 AA wRC+ putting Joey into the top 10 AA wRC+ (min. 300 PAs). That success lead to a promotion to AAA in 2023 where Joey really struggled in all facets over 138 PAs. We're betting he'll rebound and be back on track in 2024. But, with the great Spring he's had, Joey is actually now competing for a spot with the Astros (as a 4th outfielder/utility player).
35. (NC) Jonny DeLuca OF TBR 25.8 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/LAD#19/NR | Roto #122/NR)
Another far too low/non-existent rank from MLB Pipeine, DeLuca stormed into AAA (and passed his teammate Pages) by hitting the daylights out of AA pitching: .279 Avg / .970 OPS, 8 2Bs, 10 HRs, 9 SBs for a wRC+ of 149. Deluca has good speed and strikes out just 17.5% of the time, and hit well enough at AAA (.315 Avg/.923 OPS, 4 HRs, 3 SBs, over 80 PAs) to earn a promotion to the bigs (where he amassed 45 PAs for a 102 wRC+ in an injury shortened campaign). [Breaking News: DeLuca was traded to TB and has a chance to compete for the starting CF spot!]
36. (NC) Kyle Hurt SP LAD 25.4 AA 2023 (MLB NR/LAD#26/LAD#11/LAD#7 | Roto #144)
The MiLB leader in K/9 (14.87) in 2023 was this guy, Kyle Hurt. How does he do it? He brings the Hurt by pounding the strike zone with an above average Fastball (95.7 mph) paired with an above average changeup. We've watched Kyle on a number of occasions in 2023 and came away impressed each time. He's a big guy (6'3", 240) who commands the mound and says I'm coming right at you! And though, on May 25th, Kyle sported an incredible 1.33 ERA, there were hiccups after as the AA ERA ballooned to 4.15 as Kyle gave up runs in each of his last 10 starts (none of which has lasted more than 5 IP). But he continues to mow down batters at a historic rate -- 110 in 65 IP. LAD thought a change of scenery would help and promoted Kyle to AAA. And the Dodgers were right as Kyle pitched 27.0 AAA innings to a 3.33 ERA, 42 K's (1.11 WHIP). Although we're convinced Kyle is a starter, last year we predicted a MLB debut as a reliever, and we were right. We had hoped that LAD could find room in the rotation in 2024, but with the number of signings and trades, it's not looking good.
37. (↑) Everson Pereira OF NYY 22.11 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/#75/NYY#6 | Roto #142/#174/#36/#44/#15)
A short, compact, hard swing has played at every level (except the majors) for the now #75 MLB Pipeline rated NYY prospect (we were out ahead of Pipeline on Everson). In 2022, Everson hit .274, 9 HRs, across 288 ABs at A+ Hudson Valley which earned him a promotion to AA where he hit even better. Still, NYY chose to keep Everson at Somerset to start 2023 and he responded with a .291 Avg / .907 OPS, 10 2Bs, 10 HRs, 7 SBs for an wRC+ of 153 (to help improve on a career 124 wRC+). Promoted to AAA Scranton (on July 4), Everson hit a promising .312/.937 OPS, 8 HRs over 138 ABs before the promotion to the bigs (and an uninspiring .151 over his first 93 MLB ABs). But, given the chance in the bigs, Everson is going to hit. For now MLB has dropped him out of the top 100.
38. (↑) Owen Caissie OF CHI 21.8 AAA (MLB #64/#47 | Roto #38)
Owen had dropped off our radar with subpar performances in 2021 and 2022 but got his mojo back in 2023 (.289 Avg / .917 OPS, .230 ISO, 22 HRs, 7 SBs). Still the K rate is alarmingly high (31.1% with the .409 wOBA propped up a bit by a good 14.4% walk rate). And, Owen was a force this Spring, making a case to make the club (he didn't, but he could be first up).
39. (↑) Roman Anthony OF BOS 19.10 AA 2025 (MLB #35/#24 | Roto #11)
Where did this guy come from? A supplemental 2nd round pick in 2022, Roman blasted his way into the ranks in 2023 with a .272 Avg / .869 OPS, 14 HRs and 16 SBs across 3 levels good for a 143 wRC+. The speed is decent (6.0 grade) and he gets on base, what's not to like?
2024, we believe Everson will right the ship (but, will there be room in the outfield)?
40. (↑) Matt Shaw SS CHC 22.4 AA MLB 2024 (MLB #96/#54 | Roto #25)
The 13th pick of the 2023 draft has blown through the minors all the way to AA in year 1 of his pro career, batting .357 across 3 levels (157 ABs) with 8 HRs and 15 SBs, showing us that SPOW attribute we love.
41. (↑) Nolan Schanuel 1B/OF LAA 22.1 MLB 2023 (MLB #26/#95 | Roto #125/#107)
You have to love what LAA is doing with its prospects (treating them like professional baseball players and not holding them back: Silseth, Bachman, Neto, Cabbage, and then Nolan Schanuel who the Angels cycled through the ACL, Low A and into AA. And, in August, we predicted that if the 6'4" Nolan kept hitting, he would be the first 2023 draftee to debut in the bigs (and guess what?) After hittting .365 across 3 minors levels in 2023, Nolan hit .275 in the show across 109 ABs. The only missing element in this cool customer's rocket ascension has been the lack of power...but we're pretty sure that comes next.
42. (↑) Jared Jones SP PIT 22.1 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/#69/#62 | Roto #64/#52)
After breezing through AA (2.23 ERA/1.08 WHIP, 44.1 IP, 47 K's), Jared stumbled a bit in AAA (4.72 ERA, 82.0 IP, 99 K's, 1.32 WHIP), but we watched a pretty good start on July 7th (4.0 IP, 7 K's 1 ER). With 4 average to plus pitches, including a FB that can hit 100 (or 99.9 as it did July 28th) and that sits 94-98, Jared has the starter repertoire that should suit him well in Pittsburg. But, everyone, including us, would like to see a few games with donuts in the ER column as Jared went one stretch of giving up runs in 9 straight games -- while averaging just 5 IP across those starts.
43. (↑) Wade Meckler OF SFG 23.11 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/SF#11/SF#18 | Roto #333)
While Wade doesn't hit for power and doesn't steal a lot of bases, he can still hit (.354 AAA avg) and get on base (.465 OBP, AAA). And with a career 165 wRC+, 2023 was no fluke. In fact, Wade has put together the 7th best MiLB batting portfolio for the past 13 years (min. 450 PAs). The names on that list? (Juan Soto, Kyle Schwarber, Kris Bryant, Brandon Belt, Eric Hosmer, Wily Mo Pena) While Wade's minor league numbers didn't translate into immediate MLB success (as Wade was a bit overmatched in the bigs with 25 K's in 56 ABs) it was just a small sample. And, at just 23, we think he can make it, and be a plus major league outfielder. As of now, he reminds us of the Jay's Davis Schneider, and still a long way to go to remind us of another Wade...
44. (↑) Jett Williams SS NYM 20.4 AA 2025 (MLB #79/#78/#45 | Roto#48/#14)
Though the batting line of 2023 .263 Avg/ .876 OPS, 13 HRs didn't really stand out, the 104 walks to 118 K's with 45 SBs did. Those walks, an 8.3 speed grade and a wOBA of .412 translate into a really good career wRC+ of 143.
45. (↑) Abimelic Ortiz 1B TEX 22.1 AA 2025 (MLB NR/TEX#12 | Roto #118/#112)
This 6'0" 230 lb'er can hit the ball a long way, launching 33 of those 4 bag varieties in 454 PAs in 2023 (including the most hit in A+ (26), while holding down a .290 Avg in High A (157 wRC+, which was 2nd best among players with 300+ PAs). The K rate (27% in A+) still needs to come down but a .624 SLG% can also help us overlook that!
46. (↑) Adael Amador SS COL 20.9 AA 2025 (MLB#61/#68/#21 | Roto #146/#128/#91/#42)
In 2022 A ball, Adael posted 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 was a strong indicator of future success. That success led to a promotion to A+ in 2023, where Adael soared to a .302 Avg / .905 OPS, 9 HRs, 12 SBs acros 259 PAs (good for a 141 wRC+ and one of the biggest movers in MLB Pipeline and Roto' Top 100s). But, the hot year (134 wRC+) was tempered by the 35 AB reality check in AA (.143 Avg/.473 OPS). Adael will get another shot at AA in 2024 and we think he'll ace that test.
47. (↑) Colson Montgomery SS CHW 22.1 AA 2024 (MLB#57/#38/#29/#17/#9 | Roto #71/#44/#68/#35)
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). Although Colson got a late start to 2023, he was on fire after: .345 Avg / 1.069 OPS, 4 HRs, 58 ABs, leading to a promotion back to AA. Scouts say the comp is Cory Seager, but we're waiting on more power to show.
48. (↑) Kevin Alcantara OF CHC 21.8 AA 2025 (MLB#86/#75/#96/#71/#65 | Roto #68/#125/#169/#109/#131)
With as long as Kevin has been around (debuting in the DSL in 2019), you'd think he'd be 25, not 21. A 2021 trade from NYY to CHC might have slowed Kevin's promotion to A ball, but it didn't have any effect on his bat. And when given the chance in 2022 (at A Myrtle Beach), Kevin hit .273 (.811 OPS) with 15 HRs and 14 SBs but struck out far too often (123 in 428 ABs). The promotion to A+ in 2023 started slow (.225 Avg, .624 OPS, 3 HRs, 10 SBs in 138 ABs, 72 wRC+) but he picked things up to hit: .286 Avg / .807, 12 HRs, 15 SBs, 124 wRC+. While those weren't "incredible" stats, they were good and earned a promotion to AA. There's a lot of talent in this 6'6" frame and as Kevin grows into his body, expect the round trippers to increase exponentially.
49. (↑) Max Clark OF DET 19.3 A (MLB #15/MLB #13 | Roto #34/#55)
Max gets Pete C-A comps and that's a pretty good comparison to have for the speedy outfielder who should also hit for average with just enough pop to make it interesting. Maybe a future 20/20 guy? Or better, maybe the next Corbin Carroll? Well, before we get all worked up, Max has to adapt to professional baseball (and batting .154 in Low A didn't pass the first test). But, don't worry, he has all the skills to be a star.
50. (NC) Carson Williams SS TBR 20.8 AA 2025 (MLB#81/#72/#59/#23/#20 | Roto#145/#118/#195/#74/#60)
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). Still, TB promoted Carson to A+ ball to start 2023 and Carson hit pretty well: .254/.857 OPS, 23 HRs, 17 SBs, 31.8% K rate for a 131 wRC+). MLB took notice though and bumped him to #23 (now #19). The Rays also liked what they saw (and after the serious allegations against Wander Franco surfaced), TB fast tracked Carson AAA (where he was clearly overmatched -- 40% k rate). We'll see Carson at AA, where he needs to work on getting that k rate under 30%. The speed and power ability is there, it's just about contact.
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#51-100
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51. (↓) Matt Mervis 1B CHC 25.11 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/CHC#5/CHC#13/CHC#15 | Roto NR/#31/#38/#57/#103/#232)
After a stellar 2022 (5th in wRAA [41.6] and 15th in wRC+ [156]), it was a surprise to see CHC start Matt in the minors in 2023. Undeterred, Matt batted .286 with 6 HRs for a .962 OPS, which, coupled with the Cubs lack of production at 1B and DH, led to a MLB promotion on 5/5 (where Mervis Time struggled to a .167 Avg / .531 OPS with 1 HR over 90 PAs and a whopping 37.2% K rate). Returning to AAA, Matt hit 22 HRs in 441 PAs with a .282 Avg/.932 OPS for a 132 wRC+. Sure, that's not the year that Mervis had in 2022, but it was still very good ("good" for 7th best in AAA, min 400 PAs). And the good news for you is this gets you a deal on a trade (on the cheap)!
52. (↓) Harry Ford C SEA 21.1 AA 2025 (MLB #85/#65/#39/#25/#38 | Roto #107/#56/#79/#89/#74)
Ford is a highly touted athletic prospect that is Daulton Varsho 2.0 (the C/OF). In 2022, Ford struggled at the start 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 was hot and cold in 2023 at A+ Everett, ending with a .257 Avg / .840 OPS, 15 HRs and 24 SBs for a good .391 wOBA and 135 wRC+ (driven in large part by a high walk rate-18.3%- and low K rate-19.4%.
53. (↑) Andrew Painter RHP PHI 20.9 IL 2026 (MLB #54/#24/#6/#3/#12/#27 | Roto #134/#16/#28/#50)
Andrew may be a Painter by name but his occupation is electrician because the guy is lights out. Standing a tall 6'7", that downward angle and close release generate some serious heat with a 100mph FB, and, 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). But, after 2023 spring training, a UCL sprain shut him down, ultimately resulting in TJ surgery. We'll not see Andrew until 2025.
54. (NC) Jasson Dominguez OF NYY 21.1 MLB 2023 (MLB #37/#43/#74/#41 | Roto #166/#26/#30/#12/#23/#5)
Has there ever been as much international prospect hype as there was for Jasson Dominguez (and for so long)? And though "the Martian" hasn't exactly lived up to any of those lofty expectations, the hype was never his fault. Jasson hit well at A and A+ ball in 2022 but produced more on the basepaths (36 SBs) than in the power department (15 HRs). But, boy did he look good in Spring Training AND has put some significant muscle on his frame. Though the power numbers in AA Somerset weren't impressive, they were decent as Jasson hit .254/.781 OPS, 19 2Bs, 15 HRs and 37 SBs for an above average 118 wRC+ with a 25.6% k rate but just a .160 ISO. NYY suprisingly promoted Jasson to AAA where he smoked the league in 37 ABs and got a call up to the bigs where he hit 4 HRs in 33 PAs. Wow.
55. (↑) Marcelo Mayer SS BOS 21.4 AAA 2024 (MLB#7/#9/#3/#11/#15 | Roto #24/#33/#42/#55/#78)
The consensus #1 (1st year player) 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). In 2023, the Sox had Marcelo repeating A+ ball, where he has had no problem (.290 Avg/.890 OPS, 7 HRs, 5 SBs -- good for a wRC+ of 139) Then came the promotion to AA, which did not go according to plan (.189 Avg/.609 OPS, 6 HRs, 4 SBs, 25.8% K rate over 190 PAs for an wRC+ of 63). Marcelo will hit better in AA in 2024, it's hard to hit worse.
56. (↑) Ceddanne Rafaela OF/SS BOS 23.4 MLB 2023 (MLB#86/#79/#72/#76 | Roto #149/#102/#148/#93/#40)
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). Although Ceddane started cold in 2023 (.261 Avg/.651 OPS, 1 HR, 20 SBs in 143 PAs, for a very poor 81 wRC+), he hit his stride to finish his AA campaign at .294/.773 OPS, 6 HRs, 30 SBs, 266 PA's for a 108 wRC+ and earn a promotion to AAA where he hit for more power in 199 ABs, .312 Avg / .988 OPS, 14 HRs, but just 6 SBs for a .419 wOBA/ 140 wRC+. That production led to a promotion to Fenway in 2023 where Ceddanne struggled getting on base (.281 OBP) and striking out (31.5%). We really like Ceddanne's prospects with speed (6.7 in 2023) and power (.307), but he's going to have to be more patient at the plate.
57. (↓) Jacob Hurtubise OF CIN 26.4 AAA (MLB NR/CIN#24 | Roto NR)
Hurtawho? Yes, you Hurt right....Hurtubise is fast (100 SBs in 284 minor league games and a 9.0 Spd grade) as well as a solid all-around fantasy contributor (163 wRC+ across 455 PAs in AA and AAA in 2023, which was 2nd best among players with 400+ PAs). But up to 2023, Jacob was missing the power as part of his game. That changed in 2023 with a .492 SLG % in AA and a .460 SLG % in AAA (11 2Bs/10 3Bs/7HRs over 455 PAs). Jacob isn't going to hit 20 HRs, he may not hit 10. But, he's going to have some pop and steal you 50 bases while playing all three OF positions. And, best of all, he's probably available on the wire since he's not even in the MLB Cincy Top 30! The only thing keeping us from having him higher is his age...
58. (↓) Hayden Birdsong RHP SF 22.7 AA 2024 (MLB NR/SF#26/SF#10/SF#7 | Roto #246/#124)
Though the promotion to AA came with some knocks, it's still hard to ignore what the 6'4" 6th rounder did on the year (3.31 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 149 K's in 100.2 IP) with a K rate that placed him 2nd among MiLB hurlers with at least 100 IP in 2023. Pretty impressive.
59. (NC) Dalton Rushing 1B/C LAD 23.1 AA 2025 (MLB NR/#69/#43/#75 | Roto NR/#176/#2093/#99/#104)
Last year, we were convinced that Dalton was LADs best catching prospect (and MLB Pipeline even put Dalton as LAD's #1 overall prospect). But, now were not so sure. Dalton blew class A away, but, had just 128 PA's there. Still, the 8 HRs, .564 wOBA, 224wRC+ and just 16.4% K rate had us impressed. So we were looking forward to 2023 and Class A+, where Dalton continued the power barrage (18 2B, 15 HR) but struggled to hit for for average: .228. A still strong OPS of .856 helped by a 18.9% BB rate led to a good wRC+ (146) which salvaged an otherwise disappointing year (for us at least). Still, LAD named Austin it's MiLB All-Star (but not at catcher, at 1B, where he played less than a 1/3 of his games).
60. (↑) Termarr Johnson 2B PIT 19.9 A+ 2025 (MLB#29/#22/#44 | Roto #34/#21/#36)
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", to a reported 5'9" and now 5'8" frame). At 18, he held his own in low A, batting .275 with 1 HR and 4 SBs over 40 ABs. While the repeat year didn't seem as good (.244 Avg/ .841 OPS, 13 HRs, 7 SBs and a 26.7% K rate), the overall wRC+ of 141 exceeded last year's mark (of 139). The high BB% and good SLG (.448 is the key bump here, pushing the low A wOBA to .414). That resulted in a promotion to High A and a similar wRC+ of 142 (over 132 PAs). Look for Termarr to start again in High A and move to AA at some point in 2024.
61. (↑) Justyn-Henry Malloy OF/3B DET 24.1 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/DET #7/DET#8 | Roto #168/#122)
Justyn got off to a blazing start in AAA in 2023 but cooled as the year went on. Still, he got on everyone's radar with a .277 Avg, .891 OPS, 23 HRs, 89 runs (130 wRC+, .402 wOBA) over 611 PAs. With a career 132 wRC+ and .396 wOBA, 2023 year was no fluke. Justyn gets on base and hits for power and is knocking on the MLB door (PS ATL made a big mistake here).
62. (↑) Thayron Liranzo C LAD 20.8 A+ 2026 MLB NR/LAD #17/LAD#10 | Roto #277)
24 Home runs in 345 ABs? Yeah, that's pretty good. Sure it was Low A Rancho Cucamonga, but a .962 OPS is good anywhere. Is it too early to say we are looking at the LAD's best hitting prospect at C?
63. (↑) Trevor Werner 3B KC 23.6 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/ MLB #20 | Roto NR)
The Texas A&M product has a rocket arm. That's not going to get you fantasy stats, but it will get him into KC's lineup, and, once there, we think he can contribute. While the 2023 Low A sample of 135 PA's was far too small a sample, the 214 wRC+ was still pretty ridiculous (and #1 in the minors, min. 100 PAs) And, the homerun (we watched) during the Spring Breakout helped make a case to be the Royals #1 prospect! We were sold...(not that the Royals have a strong farm, but they have three guys we really like, with Trevor topping that list).
64. (↑) Ethan Salas C SD 17.9 A+ 2025 (MLB #47/#5/#8 | Roto #18/#22)
Ethan Salas is a top 20 prospect?
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But, San Diego has given into the hype with far too fast a promotion rate. While Ethan held his own as one of the youngest players in Low A (where he hit .267 / .837 OPS, 9 HRs over 191 ABs for a wRC+ of 122, which is not only pretty good, but incredible for a 17 y.o.), the promotion to High A didn't go so well (.200 Avg / .472 OPS, 35 ABs, 10Ks). So, why make it worse? Well, SD had its reasons and bumped Ethan up to AA San Antonio for 28 more ABs where he hit only .179. While there are incredible videos of HRs from Ethan, there are also some really bad ABs in between (and there are a lot more of them). Ethan is an incredible talent and the showing in Low A justified a top 75 status. But, top 10? We're not on the bandwagon yet
65. (↑) Cade Horton RHP CHC 22.7 A+ 2025 (MLB #45/#29/#26 | Roto #43/#23)
Cade pitched well in 2023, advancing from Low to High A while maintaining a low 2.98 xFIP (#2 among MiLB pitchers with 80+IP) across 88.1 innings w/ a 33.5% K rate and .190 Avg against. Fangraphs is guarded with just a 45+ FV. With a strong fastball plus slider and average curve, we're more bullish than Fangraphs but more bearish than our comparator ranks.
66. (↑) Graham Pauley 3B/2B SD 23.5 AA (MLB NR/SD#12/SD#8 | Roto #267)
The projections are not good for Graham (basically average to below average hit tool, power, speed, fielding)...but the performance has been elite for the former 13th rounder, as Graham continued to tear up MiLB in 2023 with a 168 wRC+ in A+ and a 141 wRC+ in AA combining for a 2023 line of 481 ABs, .308 Avg / .931 OPS, 32 2Bs, 5 3Bs, 23 HRs, 94 RBIs, 22 SBs and just 93 K's. So, we're going to disregard the projections and go with the production! And guess, we were right, as Graham made the Padres out of camp!
67. (NC) Xavier Isaac 1B TB 20.4 A+ 2025 (MLB #94/#58 | Roto #15)
A player we missed on last year, but Pipeline and Roto had right, was the former 29th pick of the 1st round, 6'3" 240 lb Xavier Isaac. With big time power and the ability to hit for average, Xavier is a player to keep an eye on.
68. (NC) Cole Young SS SEA 20.8 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/#70/#56/#37 | Roto #161/#136/#159/#49/#58)
There's a lot to like in the 20 year old SEA 1st rounder (and Noelvi Marte replacement). Cole had no problem in Low A Modesto (in 2022) but the 2023 repeat didn't go as well (.267 Avg / .825 OPS but 54 BB's to 52 K's with 17 SBs). Still, we predicted a promotion to A+ and not long after (hours not days), Cole was promoted to Everett where he hit well: .292 Avg/.883 OPS, 14 2Bs, 6 HRs, 5 SBs and a near equal BB/K rate (.89) And how about a deep stat here? Cole had the 3rd best wRC+ (142) among A+ batters who were in their age 19 year and had at least 200 PAs (The other 2? Roman Anthony and Jackson Holliday)
69. (NC) Lyon Richardson RHP CIN 24.3 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/CIN #25/CIN#14/CIN#9 | Roto NR)
What is up with CIN and developing pitching???? Joining Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Graham Ascraft, Connor Phillips, Chase Petty, Joe Boyle (traded to OAK) is this hard throwing (96.5 avg) right hander, Lyon Richardson. Pitching across three levels in 2023, Lyon was pretty dominant, compiling a 3.50 ERA and 100 K's in 69.1 IP (with just a .207 BAA). Now, we get it, 16.2 IP for the Reds, 4 starts and a woeful 8.64 ERA. But, Lyon was dominant through July 28th (1.85 ERA overall, 0.00 ERA at AAA). At that point, the wheels fell off, first with a MLB start on August 6 vs the Nationals (4 runs in 3 IP), which began a string of 8 starts giving up at least 1 ER (as as many as 7). We watched Lyon pitch in AA and AAA and we think he'll have success in MLB in 2024 -- he just has to limit walks and keep the ball in the park.
70. (↑) Zachary Cole OF HOU 23.7 AA (MLB NR/HOU #10/HOU#7 | Roto NR)
Showing speed (8.4) and power (.231 ISO) and a career 141, we like the early returns. On the other hand, a high K rate (31.8%) and poor MiLB career average (.258) have us a little concerned.
71. (↑) Andy Pages OF LAD 23.4 AAA 2024 (MLB#48/#66/#53/NR/LAD#6/LAD#3 | Roto#118/#221/#195/#234/#252)
2022 AA wasn't as kind to Pages (pronounced "Pahays"), as shown by the .236 Avg (.265 in A+ in 2021) but he still hit 26 HRs in 487 ABs (31 in 438 ABs in 2021). The 2022 overall wRC+ of 102 (#787) revealed an even worse campaign (comparatively). Andy has a great arm and very good pop but with slower than average speed and a 24.5% K rate. So with a career 128 wRC+ (55th best among MiLB players with 1000+ PAs from 2021-23), Andy looked to put 2022 behind and get his groove back in 2023. And in repeating AA, Andy did just that with a 144 wRC+ line: .284 Avg / .925 OPS and 25 BBs in 145 PA's to go with fewer K's (22.5% K rate) and a .211 ISO (despite just 3 HRs). That, in turn, was also good enough for LAD to promote Andy to AAA before an injury shut Andy down for the rest of the year. We're hot and cold on Andy (as Andy has been hot and cold), but hopefully you held as we think Andy's stock trends up.
72. (↑) Spencer Jones OF NYY 22.10 AA 2025 (MLB NR/#73/#84 | Roto NR/#121/#82/#104/#98/#70)
Can the 6'7" Jones be Aaron Judge 2.0? The Yankees maybe thought so when they took Spencer with the 25th overall pick in the 2022 draft. Then, in 22 games at Class A, Spencer hit .344 with 3 HRs (in 95 PA's) while showing off really good wheels (10 SBs and a Spd grade of 6.8). However, after starting hot in 2023 in High A, Spencer struggled to a .268 Avg, .787 OPS, 13 HRs but still stole 35 bases over 459 PA's PAs (though w/ a high 29.0% K rate). The resulting line? A decent, but not top 100 inspiring 114 wRC+ and .355 wOBA. Still, we like what we've seen (including a nice running Future's Game catch in center), and, we are convinced of Spencer's MLB potential. But, those K's have to come down. For now, Jones will work his craft in AA Somerset.
73. (↑) Yanquiel Fernandez OF COL 21.2 AA 2024 (MLB NR/#88/#49/#74 | Roto #42/#113)
If you're looking for the next big slugger (Vlad G type), Yanquiel Fernandez may be your guy. Advancing three levels in 2023, Yanquiel hit the ball out 17x in 268 High A PAs (while holding down a good .319 Avg/.954 OPS, 148 wRC+, .411 wOBA). But, then came the promotion to AA and dismal returns (.206 Avg/.624 OPS, 8 HRs over 237 PAs for a 69 wRC+, .281 wOBA). We joined Rotowire in being really high on Yanquiel when MLB Pipeline wasn't, but, like Roto, we're also now tempering those expectations.
74. (↑) Victor Scott II OF STL 23.1 AA 2024 (MLB NR/STL#20/STL#3 | Roto #114)
What an exciting player Victor Scott II is -- which was showcased in the 2023 Futures Game (with VS stealing 2B then 3B in the same inning, maybe the same AB). With 94 steals on the year (132 games) and a .303 Avg, Victor can hit and steal bases. But where he lacks is OBP (w/ a BB rate at just 7.4%) and power (.794 OPS .425 SLG). While we had hit on Victor Scott (the 2nd), MLB missed this one but that didn't deter Scott who is making a push to make the club out of camp!
75. (↑) Carlos Jorge 2B CIN 20.5 A+ 2026 (MLB NR/CIN#9/CIN#8 | Roto #58/#115)
Fangraphs grades Jorge with 55 speed (despite a 9.4 speed grade, 29 SBs this year and 54 the two years prior). Hmm. At just 5'10" 160, Carlos will surprise you with little pop too (12 HRs/.180 ISO in 2023). We like the SPOW guys and Carlos is one of them (not to mention the 10th best wOBA among players over the past 5 years, min 400 PAs). Although Rotowire looks to be put off by the subpar A+ performance (86 wRC+, 31.9% K rate), it was just 94 PAs. We're not giving up so easy.
76. (↑) Brady House 3B/SS WAS 20.9 AA 2025 (MLB#52/NR/#93/#67/#40/#48 | Roto#19/#77/#86/#106/#33/#20)
Neither us nor MLB Pipeline nor Roto know what to do with Brady (as Pipeline has gone from #52 to NR to #93 back to #67 in 18 months). For us, its been outside the top 175 to inside the top 100. So how did we get here? After being taken 11th overall, the 6'4" Brady wowed scouts with his expected plus power and all-around athleticism. But, in 2022, the baseball world over-projected and Brady hit just .278/.731 OPS, .097 ISO, w/ 3 HRs and 8 2Bs in 176 ABs (108 wRC+, good for #590 MiLB). That was not what the fantasy/baseball world expected especially considering he was going top 10 in dynasty rookie drafts 2 years ago. To begin 2023, WAS made the right decision in having Brady remain in Low A where improved to: .297 Avg / .869 OPS, 6 HRs, 5 SBs with a 10.1% BB rate & the K rate down to 21.5% for a 142 wRC+ (158 PAs). That earned Brady a promotion to A+ where hit about the same (145 wRC+, 68 PAs). That earned a promotion to AA (where over 148 PAs, Brady returned a good 127 wRC+). Brady has also improved on the speed grade (up to 5.7 from 3.1), but the power is still low (1.85 ISO) and, well, while Brady hasn't done enough to wow us in any category, he's still doing enough to hang around our top 100.
77. (↑) Jackson Merrill SS/CF SDP 20.11 MLB 2024 (MLB#83/#16/#9/#12 | Roto #140/#88/#20/#19/#12)
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).But, it was a limited sample and some of the success wasn't just Low A, but Complex Ball. Bring on 2023 and Class A+, which didn't start well: .223 Avg, .655 OPS over his first 103 PA's (84 wRC+). But, Merrill improved as the campaign went on to finish with 300 PAs in High A, 10 HRs, 10 SBs, .280 Avg/.752 OPS for a 111 wRC+. A 111wRC+ in Class A+ places Jackson at #117 among players with a minimum of 200 A+ PAs. #117 in Class A+..not all of Class A, not all of baseball. So why even have Jackson in the top 175? He's barely top 200 in Class A combined. Here's why...it's because he's a shortstop with 20/20 potential AND just 20. For players 20 or younger, Jackson would rank 18th (in Class A+). While the promotion to AA wasn't warranted and returned an uninspiring 104 wRC+ over 211 PA's, the takeaway is that Jackson was able to be an average AA player at age 20, going against players who were often 4 years older (on average). So, we cut Jackson some slack and see what happens in year 2 of AA. Of course, as with Ethan Salas and Jackson Chourio, we are also cognizant of the fact that just being younger than the competition and returning average results is NOT by itself a measure of success (hint hint MLB Pipeline and Rotowire). But, due to Jackson's athleticism and ability to learn and then play CF (basically in camp), lo and behold, the Padres need for a primary CF led to Jackson's surprising promotion (but is this CJ Abrams all over again? You may remember that SD brought Abrams up and stuck him out in LF where he learned to play and got by...before trading him to WAS).
78. (↑) Caleb Roberts C/OF AZ 24.1 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/AZ#30 | Roto NR)
We like Caleb Roberts, but apparently no one else does as he's not in AZ's top 30 (per MLB pipeline), nor in Rotowire's top 400. But, despite that, and despite a subpar first two professional years (in A ball and a short stint in AA in 2022), Caleb put it together in his age 23 year in AA, batting .278 / .905 OPS with 17 HRs, 11 SBs in 434 PA's (26.3% K rate) for a good 135 wRC+. We like the SPOW possibilities here with a 7.0 Spd rating and .245 ISO.
79. (↑) Curtis Mead 2B/3B TBR 23.4 MLB 2023 (MLB #35/#27/#34/#55 | Roto #32/#23/#14/#8/#10/#24)
The one constant for Mead was that he always hit, no matter where -- Australia, the US, A, AA, AAA...and in 2023, even MLB! Although 2023 wasn't as productive as past years (123 wRC+, bringing down his career 135 wRC+), we still viewed it as a success. The problem for Curtis last year is the slow start he got out to: .777 OPS, 3 HRs, 111 AAA ABs. So the year looked like this: a bad April, some time off in May/June, hit the re-set button, rejoin AAA Durham hit the cover off: .375 / 1.029 OPS bringing what was a .221 Avg up to .294 / .900 OPS, and an ISO up to .221 from .170. That hot streak led to 24 MLB games (19 at 3B) and a near major league average 95 wRC+. We don't know if TB has room for Curtis to start 2024, but if they do, we see a John Olerud type player here. A consistent, good average, low K's some power and decent defense.
80. (↑) Dylan Lesko SP SDP 20.6 A+ 2026 (MLB#98/#84/#63/#56 | Roto #134/#123/#136/#145/#82)
Dylan possesses three plus pitches (FB, Curve, Change) and Fangraphs grades him with a coveted 55 (1 of only 5 prospects graded at 55 or better). SD was aggressive in promoting Dylan to A+ where he should begin 2024. What we like so far is the ability to miss bats (52 K's in 33 IP).
81. (↑) Joendry Vargas SS LAD 18.4 DSL 2026 (MLB NR/LAD#13 | Roto #119)
The DSL MVP hit 7 HRs and stole 19 bases, while batting .328. At 6'4", with a strong arm, Joendry has a chance to play SS or 3B for the big club down the road. The sooner we can see him in Class A, the better (for everyone).
82. (↑) Michael Busch 2B LAD 26.4 AAA 2023 (MLB#42/#54/#44/#34/#51 | Roto #64/#162/#180/#260)
The overall 2022 line of a 118 wRC+ (#378 MiLB) didn't really stand out (with a low speed grades and slightly elevated K rate: 26.1%) (nor did a then career 124 wRC+), but in 2023, Michael put it together: .323 Avg / 1.049 OPS, 27 HRs, 26 2Bs, 27 HRs and almost as many walks (65) as K's (88) resulting in 150 wRC+ and a brief couple of cups of coffee with the Dodgers (72 ABs, which didn't go well: .167 Avg, .539 OPS). At now over 26, the clock is ticking and 2024 is do or die.
83. (↑) Jace Jung 2B DET 23.7 AA 2025 (MLB#71/#83/#73/#67/#60 | Roto #149/#176/#206/#134/#80)
The younger brother of the Rangers' Josh Jung, Jace didn't hit well in his first taste of pro ball at A+ West Michigan (.231 Avg, .706 OPS), but possesses good power and a chance to hit for average. Although 2023 got off to a slow start in a repeat of Class A+ (.242 Avg / .785 OPS, 4 HRs, 1 SB), Jace heated up to .254 Ag/ .842 OPS, 14 HRs, 5 SBs to earn a promotion to AA (where he hit even better: .284 Avg / .936 OPS, 14 HRs in just 183 ABs)
84. (↑) Ivan Herrera C STL 23.9 MLB 2022 (MLB NR/STL#4/STL#NR | Roto NR)
Ivan had a strong year at AAA Memphis (.297 Avg/.951 OPS, 10 HRs, 11 SB's and just 77 K's to 75 BB's) good for a 147 wRC+ (2nd best among players under 24). Pipeline had Ivan as STL's 4th best prospect in 2022, but dropped him by the final ranks in 2023 (though he has just 55 MLB ABs). Ivan is STL's home grown catcher of the future and the .297 Avg in 37 MLB ABs in 2023 helps!
85. (↑) Rece Hinds OF/3B CIN 23.6 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/CIN#13/CIN#10/CIN#16 | Roto NR/#104)
Moving to the OF from 3B seems to have helped jump start the batting side of Rece's profile as he's hit .269 /.866 OPS in AA this year with 23 HRs and 20 SBs good for an above average 121 wRC+ (but still an alarming 32.8% K rate). Expect to see Rece in Louisville in 2024!
86. (↑) Jonatan Clase OF SEA 21.10 AA 2024 (MLB NR/SEA #11/SEA#8/SEA#10 | Roto #241/#70/#109)
The year began really well for the diminutive Mariner's speedster (80 grade). Starting out at A+ Everett, Jonatan tore the cover off the ball, hitting .333/1.154 OPS with 7 HRs and 17 SBs for a wRC+ of 197 (5th best, 1 pt behind Junior Caminero), not to mention a selection to the Futures Game in Seattle. Then came the promotion to AA Arkansas and a major wall: .222 Avg/.727 OPS, 13 HRs, 94 wRC+, .333 wOBA...but an incredible 62 SBs over 489 PA's. While we love the speed power potentail, right now its more speed and we are more worried about the poor contact numbers (28% K rate in AA). Because he's just 21, he has time to turn it around in Arkansas in 2024.
87. (↑) Justin Crawford OF PHIL 20.2 A+ 2026 (MLB #80/#77 | Roto #370/#316)
Justin has great speed (9.4), hits for good average and doesn't strike out a lot (17.7%). But, the walks need to come up (8.2%) and we'd like to see some more pop (.135 ISO). But the 134 2023 wRC+ was good.
88. (↑) Eduardo Quintero OF LAD 18.6 DSL 2026 (MLB NR/LAD NR/LAD#20 | Roto #93)
We are aligned with Roto here (as MLB Pipeline didn't have Quintero in it's LAD top 30 before it's Jan 2024 update). To us, (and maybe to Roto), the best DSL year of any prospect (based on age, plate appearances and production) came from this guy, Eduardo Quintero, a 6'0" speedy outfielder that can really hit. .359 Avg/1.090 OPS, 54 Runs, 42 RBIs, 5 HRs, 22 SBs, .259 ISO, 9.3 Spd, 180 wRC+ (and just a 16% K rate over 212 PAs). We know, it's DSL, but that's some video game production.
89. (↑) Josue De Paula OF LAD 18.10 A 2026 (MLB NR/ LAD#9/LAD#4 | Roto NR/#194/#87/#24/#45)
Josue wasn't on a lot of fantasy radars. The American born De Paula moved to the Dominican Republic to play baseball and was signed by LAD as part of their international player pool. In the DSL, Josue cruised to the tune of a .349 Avg, .970 OPS, 5 HRs and 16 SBs (and walked more than he struck out: 14.3% to 13.9%) for a wRC of 161 (good for 9th in MiLB). LAD quickly promoted De Paula to Low A this year where he's hit .284 / .768 OPS, 2 HR, 14 SBs for a decent 118 wRC+ (340 PAs)
90. (↑) Yohandy Morales 3B WAS 22.5 AA 2025 (MLB NR/WAS#7/WAS#5 | Roto #337#157)
Slipping to the 2nd round was a suprise to us, but WAS didn't let the Miam 3B slip any farther than that. Yohandy is athletic and can hit for power, but in year 1 of the pros, he hit for average, but not average average, a really good average (.349/.917 OPS across 4 levels). As we said just after the draft, we think he's going to be a surprise stud who outhits most of the 1st round talent taken ahead of him!
91. (↑) Hurston Waldrep SP ATL 21.10 AAA 2024 (MLB#100/MLB#90 | Roto #53)
After being selected #24 overall from the University of Florida, Hurston blew through 4 levels, finally reaching AAA. The 1.53 ERA (on the year) was pretty impressive, as were the 41 K's in 29.1 innings. With the FB sitting 94-97 but reaching 99, Hurston relies on a split-finger FB and a plus slider.
92. (NEW) Mason Barnett SP KCR 23.4 AA 2024 (MLB NR/ KCR #6)
We watched Mason in the Spring Breakout (vs the Brewers) where he faced soon to be major leaguers Jackson Chourio, Jeferson Quero and Mason Black and though the line wasn't great: 1 2/3 IP, 2 H, 2 R (1 ER), 3 BB, 0 K, Mason was humming his FB in at 96-98 and looked pretty impressive to us.
93. (New) Colt Emerson SS SEA 18.8 A 2026 (MLB NR / SEA #4 / MLB #87 | Roto #44)
Colt has really turned heads in minor league camp. The kid can do it all.
94. (New) Dylan Beavers OF BALT 22.7 AA 2025 (MLB NR/BALT#9 | Roto#97/#84)
A 132 wRC+ in 2023, with a .383 wOBA and 6.7 spd means you can leave it to Beaver.
95. (↓) Kyle Manzardo 1B CLE 23.8 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/#73/#65/#50/#40/#58 | Roto #100/#7/#13/#29)
With Shenton's rise and Manzardo's fall, TB made Kyle expendable and shipped him to CLE in a 2023 deadline deal. Kyle's first complete year of pro ball (2022) was domination: High A -- .329 Avg, 1.072 OPS, 17 HRs; AA -- .323 Avg, .978 OPS, 5 HRs in 99 ABs. But the two most impressive 2022 stats for Kyle were the K to BB rate (65 K's to an almost even 59 BB's) and MiLB's 4th best wRC+ (172). But then came 2023 and major struggles in AAA (.238 Avg, .784 OPS, 19 2Bs, 11 HRs, 313 PAs, 93 wRC+ /pre-trade) which not only tabled the "major league ready" talk but sent Kyle packing to CLE where he fared better post trade: .256 Avg, .938 OPS, 6 HRs, .392 wOBA, 123 wRC+, having reduced the K rate rate (from 20.8% to 15.2%) and finding the power stroke, raising his ISO from .204 to .333)
96. (↑) River Ryan RHP LAD 25.7 AAA 2024 (MLB NR / LAD#8/ LAD#5 | Roto NR)
Parked at 96-98.7 in his final start of 2023, River can let it flow. While the swing and miss wasn't there (110 K's in 104.1 IP), River has a strong four pitch starter's mix.
97. (New) Noble Meyer RHP MIA 19.2 A 2026 (MLB #55/MLB#57 | Roto #108)
98. (New) Alan Roden OF TOR 24.4 AA 2024 (MLB NR/TOR #7 | Roto #146)
Roden isn't going to wow you in any category, but in professional year 2, the 3rd round pick put together a solid year across two levels (A+/AA). What we liked most was the return at AA (.310 Avg, .881 OPS, 6 HRs, 9 SBs, 147 wRC+, .402 wOBA and low K rate (15.3%).
98. (↑) Brooks Lee SS/3B MN 23.1 AAA 2024 (MLB #32/#31/#25/#18 | Roto #59/#73/#80/#52/#73)
After being selected #8 in the 2022 draft, the super advanced hitting Brooks skipped low A and had no problem with A+ in 2022 (.289 Avg, .849 OPS, 4 HRs, 97 ABs) before a quick promotion to AA where he also began in 2023. But, in 2023, Brooks struggled out to a .272 Avg, .800 OPS and just 7 HRs in 329 PAs (110 wRC+). Then something clicked as over the next 95 PA's, Brooks hit .373/ 1.117 OPS and 6 HRs to raise his overall wRC+ to 123. Ultimately, Brook hit an above average (120 wRC+) at AA, but then struggled over 168 PA's at AAA (78 wRC+). Brooks skill set is the gap to gap type hitter (maybe 20 HRs a year, maybe 10 SBs). While a good prospect (Carlos Correa thinks so too), we're not sure he's going to light the fantasy world on fire. There's been talk about Brooks making the Twins out of camp, but we'd like to see him pass the AAA test before he earns his MLB promotion.
99. (↑) Edwin Arroyo SS CIN 20.7 AA 2025 (MLB#52/#44/#24/#57/#67 | Roto#88/#46/#71/#239/#106)
Cincinnati picked up two premier SS prospects in the trade with the Mariners: Noelvi Marte and this guy, Edwin Arroyo. Although Edwin struggled for Cincy after the trade, he hit the heck out of Class A Modesto pre-trade. In 2023, Cincy bumped Edwin up to A+ and Edwin returned a decent 108 wRC+ (along the lines of his MiLB career average), which the Reds rewarded with a late season promotion to AA where Edwin was begin 2024 (where he would have been one of the youngest players). We see some 20/20 potential here, but the hit tool is currently lagging behind. But more bad news for Edwin as a shoulder injury will shut his 2024 down.
100. (NC) Chayce McDermott SP BALT 25.7 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/BALT#10/#9 | Roto NR / #344/#249)
While the strikeout numbers have always been good (352 in 244 IP), the results (run suppression) haven't always been there. But this year Chayce got out to a 2.70 AA ERA with 40 IP 49 K's, 1.18 WHIP before his last three AA starts pushed his ERA up to 3.56 (over 68.1 IP). In the game we watched, Chayce dominated an Erie Sea Wolves lineup that included the hot hitting Colt Keith and Dillon Dingler (where Chayce struck out 7 over 5 IP with a live fastball). Ultimately, Chayce's production resulted in a promotion to AAA where he excelled to a 2.49 ERA (64 K's in 50.2 IP) With a strong and deceptive FB which sets up an above average slider and passable curve, Chayce has the repertorie to start, and he will, in Baltimore in 2024! [Update: Baltimore brass say Chayce isn't ready. He is! But it'll be more AAA Norfolk Tides to start 2024]
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101. (↑) Ivan Melendez 1B AZ 24.2 AA 2025 (MLB NR/AZ#8 | Roto #380#300)
Anther 1B that can launch big flies is Ivan the DBack. At 6'3" 225, Ivan swings at every ball like he's going to hit it out -- resulting in 30 blasts in just 379 ABs, while carrying an outstanding .306 ISO (but a far too high 34.4% K rate across A+ and AA ball).
102. (↑) John McMillon RHP KCR 26.2 AAA 2023 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
Sure, putting a 26 year old reliever here is meh, but when you average 98.8 on your FB and 100mph on a sink and that fastball/sinker combo sets up your wipeout slider, you're worthy in our book and that worthy reliever is John McMillon who was lights out in 2023 including a 0.87 ERA and 13.06 K/9 rate in AA (20.2), after which he jumped to MLB where he pitched 4 innings (with 8 K's) before a forearm injury shut him down. While McMillon is set to start in AAA, it won't be long before he's in high leverage situations in KC.
103. (↑) Chase Hampton RHP NYY 22.5 AA 2024 (MLB NR/#95/#92 | Roto #79/#96)
In his first year of pro ball, Chase dominated High A (2.68 ERA, 47 IP, 77 K's, 1.00 WHIP, 14.74 K/9) to earn a promotion to AA where he continued to strike out batters at a decent clip (10.26 K/9) but was more hittable, giving up more HR/9 (1.21) as he pitched to a 4.37 ERA in 59.2 IP with 68 K's. But, the xFIP was better (3.85) and the 1.26 WHIP isn't bad. Chase has an above average FB, slider and curve and Fangraphs gives a 50 FV.
104. (↓) Justice Bigbie 1B/OF DET 25.2 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/DET#21 | Roto #217)
Justice put together his best year in 2023 across 3 levels, posting a .343 Avg / .942 OPS, 19 HRs, 6 SBs, including the 3rd best wRC+ (170) in AA (min 200 PAs). How he does in AAA will determine whether we see him in the DET lineup in 2024. Though he struggled in 58 PAs in his first taste of AAA. There's some appeal here, if Justice can repeat the AA success at AAA in 2024.
105. (↓) Brant Hurter LHP DET 25.6 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/DET #20/DET#12/DET#16 | Roto NR)
Although his fastball isn't going to break any radar guns, Brant does a great job of mixing pitches (slider/change), staying around the plate and getting batters out (without many walks): 3.28 ERA, 118 IP, 133 K's, just 33 BBs, 1.19 WHIP, and the 5th best xFIP (3.28) in MiLB (min 100 IP). Detroit was slow on the promotion here, so look for Brant to start in AAA or maybe, just maybe, straight to DET after a strong Spring.
106. (↓) Estevan Florial OF CLE 26.4 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/NY #30/NY NR | Roto NR)
With a career 123 wRC+ maybe it would appear to defy our logic to have Florial so high on our list. But, but he's helped by a 127 wRC+ over the past 2 years in AAA (including the 7th best wRC+ in AAA for under age 27 players in 2023, min 400 PAs). And, Estevan has hit the same or better than the following players over the same period/level: Triston Casas (127), Miguel Vargas (126), Michael Bush (125), Curtis Mead (124), Jarred Kelenic (122), Spencer Steer (120), Sal Frelick (118), Jarren Duran (117), Ronnie Mauricio (108) to name a few. [min. 400 PAs] With 60 grade speed and 55 raw power, 28 HRs and 25 SBs in AAA in 2023, we are still sky high on the potential of Florial! For more on Estevan, check out our blog here. [Breaking News: Estevan was traded to CLE which means he may actually get a legit chance to play! This was a great move by CLE. They were obviously following Florial, or.....our blog....and may have the next Adolis Garcia! But then Estevan may have all but blew his chance to make the team with a terrible Spring highlighted by an infamous reel of strikeouts]
107. ((↓) Hunter Goodman 1B/OF COL 24.5 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/COL#12 | Roto #229)
After swatting 33 HRs in 2022, the 70 graded power hitting Hunter followed that up with 30 long balls in 2023 and a promotion to COL (where, with his high leg kick and launch angle, he is made for). While Hunter is going to be up and down on average, there's no doubt he can hit it out.
108. (↓) Sam Bachman SP LAA 24.6 MLB 2023 (MLB NR; LAA#5/LAA#2/NR | Roto #268/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). There was some talk of a quick promotion to AAA in 2023, or even to MLB, until Sam went out and pitched to some hard contact at AA and a 5.81 ERA (26.1 IP / 29 K's). But, like with Nolan Schanuel, the Halos were aggressive in their plans and promoted Sam straight to MLB as a bullpen arm (and a good one at that), returning a 3.18 ERA in 17 MLB innings (14K's) while averaging 96.9 on his sinker. With 3+ pitches (Fangraphs says 2), a fastball that can reach 101 (and a weak Angels rotation ahead of him, especially with Ohtani gone), you have to think Sam has a bright future ahead (but hopefully as a starter).
109. (↓) Spencer Horowitz 1B/DH TOR 26.4 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/TOR #16 | Roto #299)
Spencer quietly put together a solid year in AAA, batting .337 while swatting 10 HRs and stealing 9 bases. Perhaps even more appealing for TOR was the high walk rate (16.1%) compared to a low K rate (14.9%) leading to a .425 wOBA and 144 wRC+. And, best of all, all of that led to a promotion to the show and a return of 106wRC+ (slightly above major league average). If Spencer can get his MLB walk and K rate back to his 2023 AAA level he will be an on base machine (despite being an undersized 1B and despite the lack of power that is endemic to the position).
110. (↓) Ben Brown RHP CHC 24.6 AAA 2024 (MLB NR /#70/#86/NR/CHC#11 | Roto #191/#232/#379)
Despite a breakout year in 2022 (104 IP, 149 K's, 3.38 ERA, between A+ and AA), the tall, lanky Ben Brown was barely on MLB Pipeline's radar to start 2023 (sitting about halfway down the Cubs top 30). When Ben followed that up with an astounding start to 2023, buzzing through AA (20 IP, 30 K's, 0.45 ERA, 0.95 WHIP), MLB Pipeline got up to speed and moved Ben up to #3 among Cubs prospects (now #5) and #70 overall (now #86). But then came the promotion to AAA where Ben really struggled (5.33 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, but a very good 100 K's in 72.2 IP [12.63 K/9]). Ben's FB can reach 98 but is more in the 92-97 range), which he pairs with a + slider and + curve, to earn a Fangraphs 50 FV. We've
watched a half dozen of Ben's starts in AAA and, despite the recent struggles, are convinced that the Cubs have a future frontline starter here (SP/SP3). But, Chicago began using Ben as a reliever -- hopefully just to keep innings down and not with the notion of making that permanent!
111. (↓) Daniel Espino RHP CLE 23.2 MiLB-IL 2024 (MLB #11/#53/#80/#99 | Roto #29/#35/#42/#76/#186)
Espino is hurt again and shut down for 2024 (as he was in 2023 after only 18.1 IP in 2022). While Espino can really sling it, reaching 102 mph on his heater while parked in the 97-100 range, Daniels's health is his achilles (though that's about the only thing healthy as he's suffered from kee tendinitis and shoulder problems, requiring the most recent surgery). He's a talent, but just can't stay on the field.
112. (↓) Nick Frasso RHP LAD 25.5 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/#65/#80 | Roto NR/#181/#267/#224/#296)
Coming over in a trade from TOR last year for Mitch White (read: stolen -- 76 K's in 54 IP in 2022with a 0.93 WHIP and 2.89xFIP), MLB had Nick penned as LADs 18th best prospect (we had him as our #117 overall). Then came 2023 and Nick Frasso had been LAD's best minor league pitcher for the first half of the season -- though he fell on hard times over the 2nd half with his sparkling 1.01 ERA (26.2 IP) ballooning to 4.18 on 8/9. Like Kyle Hurt, LAD felt a change would help and promoted Frasso to AAA OKC where he threw 19.1 innings for a 3.26 ERA, but just struck out 13 batters, while giving up 19 hits (.257 BAA). Frasso was not highly regarded by Fangraphs during the 2023 year (40+ FV), but he should have been. Frasso has used a good FB (that can reach 98, but mostly operates around 93-97) to set up a good change and decent slider.
113. (↑) Marco Luciano SS SFG 22.6 MLB 2023 (MLB#9/#16/#20/#26/#39 | Roto#36/#47/#63/#85/#77/#192)
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]. Well, that wasn't a great line either, but the overall body of work wRC+ of 126 placed him at around #400 of eligible MiLB players, which earned Marco a promotion to AA to start 2023, where, unsuprisingly, he struggled again. Hitting just .176 / .759 OPS with 4 HRs overall, but just 51 ABs. However, he put together a good month+ to bring his average up to .228 / .789 OPS, 11 HRs, 6 SBs (wRC 115), which was enough for SF to promote Marco to AAA where he hit well in just 27 PAs, and SF (who we know to be slow on the draw on these), quickly and surprisingly promoted Marco. Luciano is penciled in as the starter at Short, but whether you go get him (or how much you invest) depends on whether you believe us (and Roto) or you believe MLB Pipeline (and it's #39 ranking).
114. (↓) Austin Gauthier INF/OF LAD 24.10 AA 2024 (MLB NR/LAD #30/LAD #26 | Roto #268)
Austin recently dropped from our ranks but is back in with an astounding year 2023 in High A (195 wRC+) followed by a pretty good AA campaign (.293 Avg, 6 Hrs, 15 SBs, .390 wOBA, 129 wRC+). But, he was old for A+ and is even on the old side for AA.
115. (↓) Cade Cavalli RHP WAS 25.7 MLB 2022 (MLB #47/#55/#74/NR/WAS#4 | Roto #84/#111/#219/#174/#155)
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 99mph 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 in 2022) But, unfortunately, TJ surgery erased 2023 from the mix and 2024 is going to be a bit of a wild card -- is Cade going to retain that high octain 1st pitch Fastball?
116. (↓) Michael Arias RHP CHC 22.4 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/CHC#12 | Roto #182/#305)
The 24th best K rate (12.17 K/9) belongs to this baby Cub. But don't call Arias cute, since that 100 mph FB will come right at you, as batters in Class A have discovered. Though his first 15 starts (A-/A+) Michael compiled a strong 2.84 ERA, with 84 K's in 57.0 IP. After that, the wheels fell off a bit, Arias ended with a 5.77 ERA in AA, 39 IP, 46 K's,1.74 WHIP,.278 BAA, but a better xFIP: 4.28.
117. (↓) Shane Sasaki OF TBR 23.8 AA 2025 (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/#286/NR/#336)
In 2022, Shane hit .324 at Single A Charleston (while batting leadoff and playing CF) with a .907 OPS, .419 wOBA, 9 HRs and a whopping 47 SBs good for a wRC+ of 151 (#31 MiLB). So we were looking forward to 2023 and the promotion to A+. The year began well when Shane hit .290/ .776 OPS, 2 HRs, 9 SBs in 117 PAs (114 wRC+) tailed off to (.262 Avg/.741 OPS/104 wRC+) and then finished at a 130 wRC+ (.301 Avg/.840 OPS, 7 HRs, 12 SBs, 293 PAs). So while it was up and down, the end result was good. Expect Shane to start in AA in 2024 and let's hope he can put up similar numbers.
118. (↓) Jordan Beck OF COL 22.11 AA 2025 (MLB NR/#99/#81 | Roto #210/#96/#116)
The former 6th rounder has put together two strong years to start his professional career: .286 Avg / .931 OPS, .413 wOBA, 145 wRC+ but struggled with the promotion to AA (.240 Avg/.748 5 HRs over 223 PAs w/ a 31.8% K rate for a 108 wRC+).
119. (↓) Jud Fabian OF BALT 23.6 AA 2024 (MLB NR/ BALT #15/ BALT #13 | Roto #262)
Baltimore's farm is so stacked that MLB Pipeline has Jud (unfairly so) all the way down at #13. Jud was a stud in college (at the University of Florida, hitting 44 HRs in his final two years. After being selected in 2nd round in 2021 and then returning to college (where he mashed), Jud was again drafted, this time in the CB round (in 2022). And after, Jud went on to hit .386/1.322, 7 2Bs, 3 HRs in 44 ABs in Low A. But, after being promoted to A+, he really struggled. But in 2023, he made the necessary adjustments to hit .281/.882 OPS, 13 2Bs, 9 HRs in a repeat of A+. But like last year, another promotion has stumped him (AA: .176 Avg/.713 OPS, 288 PAs, 98 wRC+). We really like Jud (another 20/20 SPOW guy), but we'll need to see him pass the test at AA to get back into the top 100.
120. (↓) Ty Madden SP DET 24.1 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/DET#5 | Roto #294/#269)
Detroit's best MiLB pitcher in 2022 was this under the radar guy. Though he sports a slightly above average fastball, Ty's best pitch is a + slider. In 2022, that pitch helped him to a 3.43 ERA over 118 AA IP with 146 K's (11.14 K/9) and the 19th best xFIP.
121. (↓) Richard Fitts RHP BOS 24.1 AA 2024 (MLB NR/NYY #8/NYY NR/BOS #12 | Roto #248)
Behind a plus FB and slider combination (with a change mixed in) Fitts went 11-5 in 27 starts at AA (3.48 ERA, 152.2 IP, 9.61 K/9). While he was on his way to AAA Wilkes-Barre, NYY sent him to BOS in the Verdugo trade and now Richard finds himself in Portland on the other side of the heated East Coast rivalry.
122. (NC) Drew Gilbert OF NYM 23.6 AA 2024 (MLB #95/#69/#53 | Roto #82/#56/#36)
Gilbert "Drew" A+ ball in 2023 where he tore the cover off (.360 Avg / 1.107 OPS, 6 HRs, 4 SBs), earning a promotion to AA where over 264 PAs, Drew hit just .241/ .713 OPS, 6 HRs, 6 SBs for a AA wRC+ of just 91. But, a mid season trade to NYM helped right the ship to a 167 wRC+ over 154 PA's in Binghamton as many HRs (6) in half the ABs. But, with an average to slightly above Spd grade (5.5) and a similar mid-level ISO (.199 ISO), it may be hard to merit ranking Gilbert in the top 100 right now but he's pushing it.
123. (NC) Matthew Etzel OF BAL 21.10 A+ 2026 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
The 10th Rounder out of Southern Mississippi hit well in his first taste of pro ball, batting lead off and stealing 21 bases in just 30 games.
124. (↑) Brian Kalmer 1B CHC 23.6 A+ 2025 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
Former Gonzaga star (and 18th round pick) Brian Kalmer had little problem with low A in 2023, with 10 HRs in just 138 PA's on the way to a .358 Avg. But Brian needs to work his way to AA before we can get a better read.
125. (↑) Andrew Cossetti C/1B MIN 24.2 AA 2024 (MLB NR/MIN #25 | Roto NR)
15 Home Runs across 392 PAs with just a 20.2% k rate and a .960 OPS has us interested.
126. (↑) Jacob Burke OF CHW 23.1 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/CHW#28/CHW#23 | Roto #335/NR)
An 11th round pick out of Miami, Jacob Burke has impressed us with his speed and power mix, not to mention his flat out, 100% to the max play, reminding us a bit of Joey Wiemer (albeit a shorter version at 6'1"). Across 330 A/A+ ABs in 2023, Jacob hit .294/.831 OPS with 6 HRs and 19 SBs and a 6.9 speed grade.
127. (↑) Ethan O'Donnell OF CIN 22.0 A 2026 (MLB NR/CIN#23 | Roto NR)
128. (↑) Chase Petty RHP CIN 20.11 AA 2025 (MLB NR/CIN#5/MLB#98 | Roto #388/#307/#353/#266/#123)
Although capable of throwing in the upper 90s, Chase's best pitch is his slider (which is good, because it's the hardest pitch to hit in baseball). Although Chase pitched to a decent 3.48 ERA in 2022, it wasn't dominant, nor were the 96 K's in 98.1 IP. In 2023, Chase got off to a late start (May 10th) at High A Daytona where he threw 60 IP with just 61 K's, 1.95 ERA. While the ERA was great, the lack of K's were alarming, as was the BAA (.257). Still, we still predicted a promotion to AA, which happened (but just 2 starts, 8 IP). As it stands, unless Chase starts missing more bats, we're going a bit cold here.
129. (↑) Luisangel Acuna 2B/SS NYM 22.0 AA 2025 (MLB #44/#38/#66 | Roto #40/#77)
We love the speed (7.2, 55 SBs, 569 PAs) and BA (.294), but that's it. And the 107 wRC+ wasn't flattering.
130. (↑) Michael Arroyo SS/2B SEA 19.4 A+ 2026 (MLB NR/SEA #10/SEA#5/SEA#9 | Roto #126/#383)
Seattle's now 19 y.o. 2022 international phenom Michael Arroyo is a work in progress, as the introduction to Class A Modesto didn't go as well as planned: .234 Avg/.762 OPS (265 PAs). But with a good hit tool and decent speed, we're betting he turns it around.
131. (↑) Kyren Paris SS LAA 22.4 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/ LAA#4 | Roto #224)
132. (↑) AJ Vukovich OF/3B AZ 22.8 AA 2025 (MLB NR/ AZ#9/AZ#14 | Roto #341)
133. (↑) Dru Baker OF TBR 24.0 AA 2024 (MLB NR | Roto #352)
134. (↑) Joey Ortiz 2B/SS/3B MIL 25.8 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/#99/#61/#50/#63 | Roto NR/#123/#104/#81/#229/#144)
Joey flew under the radar in 2022 despite the promotion to AAA where he hit .346, .967 OPS, 4 HRs, 6 SBs for a AAA wRC+ of 154 (115 PA's). But it turns out it was too small a sample. In 2023, Joey continued to hit AAA pitching, but the success was moderated: .321 Avg, .885 OPS, 9 HRs, 11 SBs for a wRC+ of 121 - which earned Joey a 34 PA cup of coffee in the bigs (which didn't go as planned: .212 Avg, .448 OPS). While we think Ortiz is going to be an average to just above average major league player, he's going to be an above average hitting 2B!
135. (↑) Oliver Dunn 2B MIL 26.6 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/MIL#22 | Roto NR)
136. (↑) Dominic Fletcher OF AZ 26.6 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/AZ#14/AZ#11/NR) | Roto NR/#298)
What a year 2023 has been for the 5'9" former 6th Rounder. After lighting up the AAA, he went out and lit up MLB pitching, before a promised regression came and then a demotion back to AAA. On the year in AAA, Domini hit a respectable 120 wRC+, .291/.899, 10 HRs, 5 SBs, .400 wOBA (334 PA's) and a likewise above average 113 wRC+ in the bigs (102 PAs).
137. (↑) Noah Schultz LHP CHW 20.7 A+ 2026 (MLB#97/#61/#50 | Roto #268/#164)
138. (↑) Carlos Duran RHP LAD 22.8 A+ 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR/#311/NR)
Here's a name you may not have heard. The 6'7" Dominican can really sling it, both with a 99 mph FB and a hard breaking slider. Although he threw just 48.2 IP in 2022, he struck out 68 until TJ surgery ended the ride. Duran didn't pitch in 2023, but he's back, and healthy, in 2024 and throwing heat in LAD camp.
139. (↑) Jarlin Susana RHP WAS 20.0 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/WAS#5/WAS#12 | Roto #157/NR)
Jarlin Susana can throw the rock! Hitting triple digits in his starts, the imposing 6'6" 19 year old comes right at you. But, that also gets him in trouble as its coming in straight and if not located up, in or away, batters are able to square up, leading to a 5.14 ERA (63 IP, 62 K's and a 1.52 WHIP). Lots of potential here, but lately its been all struggles (and future MLB relief pitcher written all over).
140. (↑) Jairo Iriarte RHP CHW 22.1 AA 2024 (MLB NR / SDP#7/CHW#9 | Roto #102)
One of the main pieces in the Dylan Cease return, Jairo has a chance to pitch in the majors in 2024 and brings the heat!
141. (↓) Drew Thorpe RHP CHW 23.5 AA 2024 (MLB #99/MLB#85 | Roto #61)
A mini-run on pitchers continues with the MilB leader in xFIP (min 100 IP). While Drew Thorpe doesn't have the high octane fastball we like, he misses a ton of bats and induces a lot of weak contact on his way to a 2.52 ERA, 2.90 xFIP, and a likewise incredible 0.98 WHIP to go with an 11.76 (K/9). [Breaking news: Drew Thorpe has been acquired by the Padres in the Juan Soto trade and we are moving his MLB promotion timeline to 2024)
142. (↓) Gordon Graceffo SP STL 24.0 AAA 2023 (MLB#79/NR/STL#3/#6/#9 | Roto#87/#167/#212/#319/NR)
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). But, 2023 has had its bumps (4.92 ERA, 81 K's in 86.0 IP) including an April 28 start of 5 IP, 6 ERs, 2 HRs against a very good Durham (TB AAA) team, where the 4th [Tristan Gray HR off a slider] and 5th innings [Ben Gamel HR off a 92.8 mph FB] ultimately led to Gordon being shut down at that time. But Gordo returned on June 17 and was up and down. So what gives? Despite a FB that hit 99 on 4/28, Gordo could barely hit 94 in June (we saw that on 6/30, sitting at 89-94). But then, on 9/22 Graceffo was back up to 99.4, while sitting 94-98. Gordo pairs that plus FB with a plus slider, curve and changeup good for a 50 FV at Fangraphs. We don't now what's going on. Is this the 99 mph FB Graceffo or the 90 mph one? In Spring training it was more the 90mph one....giving us reason to move Gordon down again.
143. (↑) Mason Black RHP SF 23.9 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/SF #8 | Roto #138)
After looking pretty dominant in AA (3.57 ERA, 83 K's in 63 IP), the promotion to AAA came with some hiccups (5.50 ERA, 18 IP, 19 Hits, including 6 HRs when he gave up just 7 in 63 AA IP). But Mason made the adjustments on his way to a 3.86 ERA and 72 K's in 60.2 IP (11.28 K/9 rate and 4.02 xFIP on the year). We like Mason's heavy 90-92mph sinker but with a fastball that topped out at 95.4 in his last AAA start (and had only one pitch reach 95), we're concerned about being able to get the 4 seamer by major league hitters. But we'll call it arm fatigue as we've seen higher numbers earlier and we'll look forward to some starts in the Bay in 2024.
144. (↑) Tyler Fitzgerald 3B/OF SF 26.4 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/SF#30 | Roto NR)
Although the career 116 wRC+ doesn't jump off the page, Tyler has had good minor league numbers in the past (19 HRs in 2021, 21 HRs/20 SBs in 2022) but has been held back by a high K rate (32.9% in 2022). But in 2023, Tyler worked to reduce the K's (23.8% in AAA) and increase his walks (9.7%, AAA), resulting in a .373 wOBA (20 AA HRs, 29 SBs) to go with a .287 Avg. While the 103 wRC+ wasn't great, the .212 ISO in AAA and 8.0 Spd great were). Tyler has a chance to fill in as a utility player in SF and get ABs (especially with that great speed).
145. (↑) Buddy Kennedy 2B/3B/LF STL 25.5 AAA 2022 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
While the career 118 wRC+ doesn't wow us, 2023's 133 wRC+ did: .318 Avg/.925 OPS, 5 HRs, 3 SBs.
146. (↑) Christian Scott RHP NYM 24.9 AA 2024 (MLB NR/NYM#12/#5 | Roto #199)
Over the last 6 years, very few MiLB players have maintained FIPs below 2.60 (min 100 IP). Christian is one of 25. Of that list, only 13 have also struck out batters at a rate of at least 11 per 9 IP. Christian is on both lists (joining Chris Paddack, Andrew Painter, Tarik Skubal, Giovanny Gallegos, Colin Poche, Ricky Tiedemann, Joe Ryan, to name a few)
147. (↑) Robby Snelling LHP SD 20.3 AA 2025 (MLB#78/#60/#36 | Roto #153/#49)
148. (↑) Jacob Wilson SS OAK 22.0 A+ 2026 (MLB #76/#68 | Roto #266)
149. (↑) Roderick Arias SS NYY 19.6 ROK 2026 (MLB NR/NYY#6/MLB#86 | Roto #37/#43)
150. (↑) Jaison Chourio OF CLE 18.10 A 2026 (MLB NR / CLE#8/#8 | Roto #241)
151. (↑) Brock Wilkin 3B MIL 21.9 AA 2025 (MLB NR/MIL#7 | Roto #63)
152. (↑) Hector Rodriguez OF CIN 20.0 A+ 2026 (MLB NR/CIN#16/#13 | Roto #191)
153. (↑) Carson Whisenhunt LHP SF 23.5 AA 2025 (MLB #90/#70/#83 | Roto #152/#219)
154. (↑) Ricardo Cabrera SS CIN 19.5 A 2026 (MLB NR/CIN#9 | Roto #194)
155. (↑) Kevin Hidalgo 3B/SS COL 19.0 A 2026 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
156. (↑) Denzel Clarke OF OAK 23.10 AA 2024 (MLB NR/OAK#4 | Roto #271)191. ( )
157. (↑) Moses Brito LHP LAD 21.8 ACL 2026 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
The "other" player LAD received in the Mitch White to TOR deal was DSL prospect Moises Brito. In 2022, Moises had the 3rd best WHIP in MiLB while striking out 30.2% of batters faced, and a 1.79 ERA and 2.79 xFIP weren't bad either (of course its the DSL). And in 2023, in a repeat of the DSL, its been more of the same (2.36 ERA, 42 IP, 54K's). With the move, Stateside, Moses didn't fare well in the ACL in his lone start. So 2024 and Class A will tell us a lot!
158. (↑) Trey Dombroski LHP HOU 23.1 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/HOU#20/#22 | Roto NR)
Sure, it's Low A, but at 3.06, Trey put together the 2nd best xFIP in MiLB (min 100 IP). a 1.12 WHIP and 11.19 K/9 rate isn't bad either. He's not going to throw it by batters, but the offerings are just hard to hit.
160. (↑) Rayner Arias OF SFG 17.10 DSL 2027 (MLB NR / SFG#6 | Roto #150)
161. (↑) Wilmer Flores RHP DET 23.1 AAA 2024 (MLB#100/#95/NR/DET#10 | Roto #127/#152/#191/#222)
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 2022 with just 23 walks and 10 HRs given up. That type of production had FanGraphs increasing its 40+ grade to a 50! With Wilmer, you have to like his +FB (98mph) and +curve and a good 2022 xFIP (3.10)....but, we also have to recognize the difficulties in 2023. Repeating AA Erie (we don't know why), Wilmer got off to a rough start (6.15 ERA) before improving to a better 3.90 ERA over 80.2 IP (with an even better xFIP: 3.69) but with a reduced K rate (9.10 K/9).
162. (↑) Trace Bright RHP BAL 23.5 AA 2025 (MLB NR/ BAL#30/#17 | Roto NR)
Trace won't light up radar, but he strikes out a ton of batters (33.9% in 2023 for 147 K's in 99.2 IP, to go with a 3.97 ERA and 3.85 xFIP)
163. (↓) Tristin English 1B/3B/OF AZ 26.10 AAA 2023 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
Repeating AA, Tristan overwhelmed pitchers, batting .333 / 1.148 OPS, 6 HRs, 78 PA's (wRC+ 192), earning a promotion to AAA where continued to hit bombs: .293 Avg / .894 OPS, 17 HRs, 22.1% K rate, 114 wRC+200.
164. (↑) Vaun Brown OF SFG 25.9 AA 2024 (MLB NR; SF#6/#13/#17 | Roto NR/#168/#145/#181/#277/NR)
After an impressive 2022 campaign, (.347 Avg, 23 HRs and stealing 44 SBs) and an injury that delayed Vaun's 2023 campaign, Vaun stumbled to a 90 wRC+ with a line of: .221 Avg, 8 HRs, 15 SBs over 208 PAs. But, despite that really bad year, he still holds a 154 career wRC+ -- which since 2010, puts him at 15th best among MiLB players with 800+ PA's. Kris Bryant is #1, Brandon Belt #2, Julio Rodriguez #3, Vladimir Guerrero #4, Paul Goldschmidt #5. So you get the idea.
165. (↑) Tyler Locklear 3B/1B 23.4 SEA AA (MLB NR/SEA #8/SEA#11/#8 | Roto #105/#118)
Batting .311/.992 OPS, .438 wOBA (14 2Bs, 11 HRs, 7 SBs) at High A Everett, good for the 12th best 162 wRC+ (min 200 PAs) got our attention. But it was rough sailing at AA Arkansas (.260 Avg, .786 OPS).
166. (↑) Orelvis Martinez SS/3B TOR 22.4 AAA 2024 (MLB #37/#70/NR/#89 | Roto #119/#231/#73/#79)
One of the youngest players in AA in 2022, 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). Although 2023 started off worse: .151 Avg, .704 OPS, 11 HRs and just 16 Hits in 118 PAs with 30 K's (25.4%) for an 81 wRC+, Orelvis pulled it together to finish AA with a .226 Avg/.824 OPS 17 HRs (20.5% k rate) and a 122 wRC+ which earned him a promotion to AAA where he's hit an a MiLB average clip (105 wRC+). TOR would love to see Orelvis focus on reducing the K's and simply getting on base. Everyone knows the power is there (.259 AA ISO), but can he hit enough to get to the majors? As one of the youngest players at AAA, Orelvis still has time to work out the kinks.
167. (↑) Nathan Hickey C BOS 24.4 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/BOS#15/#18 | Roto NR/#307)
Hickey continues to put up solid numbers. In 2022 across A/A+ ball, it was a: .263 Avg, .937 OPS, 16 HRs, 62 RBIs (255 ABs, 63 BBs, 78 K's) for a surprisingly good wRC+ (155), 19th best in MiLB. And in 2023 it was more of the same. After starting in A+ ball, Nathan advanced to AA, putting up similar numbers for an overall line of .265/.858 OPS, with 24 2Bs, 19 HRs for a 134 wRC+. Although Nathan's wOBA was .424 in 2022, it fell to .383 in 2023 (as the a 19.2% walk dropped to 12.5%).
168. (↑) Nick Yorke 2B BOS 22.1 AA 2025 (MLB #51/#65/NR/#82/NR/BOS#8 | Roto #15/#48/#108/#100/#128)
Nick started 2022 strong in A+, but hit a block and stumbled to the end with a line of .231 Avg, .668 OPS, 11 HRs, 8 SBs over 337 ABs overall)...MLB had been so high on Nick (as high as #51). The good news was he was just 20 at the time. And, despite the poor production at High A in 2022, BOS felt Nick was ready for AA in 2023 (where he started hot and reached #82 on MLB Pipeline's top 100 before hitting a long rut and returning a final line of .268 Avg/.785 OPS, 13 HRs, 18 SBs for an wRC+ of 116. That mediocre production has Nick falling out of both our and MLB's top 100.
169. (↑) Gabriel Gonzalez OF SEA 20.2 A+ 2026 (MLB NR/#92/#66/#79 | Roto #53/#130)
Despite his youth, SEA had seen enough from the 19 y.o. in Modesto (.348 Avg / .933 OPS, 9 HRs, 8 SBs) to promote Gabriel to High A Everett where he hit .282 and 5 HRs in his first 44 PAs, and then tanked to a .233 avg/.677 OPS, 83 wRC+, .309 wOBA.
170. (↑) Druw Jones OF AZ 20.2 A 2026 (MLB#11/#13/#33/#78 | Roto #10/#14/#69/#81)
Druw Jones (Andruw Jones' son) is an ultra talented (5 Tool player), who AZ threw right into the mix starting off in A ball and which didn't just go not well but embarrassingly bad (.175 Avg, .483 OPS over 40 ABs). Well, at least the K's are palatable: 14 in 46 PA's. That led AZ to actually shut down Druw during May and then have him start in the ACL (for rehabilitation), where Druw also struggled (so now and was shut down again (June 19th). But, the silver lining is that Druw came back to Class A Visalia and hit a lot better than the first go around, finishing with a .252 Avg/.717 OPS, 2 HRs, 6 SBs over 111 ABs. Year one was not a lot of fun for Druw Jones.
171. (New) Jeferson Quero C MIL 21.5 AAA (MLB NR/MLB#35)
172. (↑) Edgar Quero C CHW 20.1 AA 2025 (MLB NR/#91/#65/#81/NR/CHW#5 | Roto NR/#169/#203/#241/#220)
After a pretty astounding year in low A, .312 Avg, .965 OPS, 17 HRs, 12 SBs, 73 BBs, .439 wOBA, 150 wRC+ over 413 ABs, the Angels were aggressive in promoting Edgard to AA (skipping A+) and after a hot start Edgar cooled off to a mediocre line: .243 Avg / .712 OPS, 3 HR, 1 SB, over 330 PAs for a 103 wRC+. With the trade to Chicago, Edgar had a chance to re-set, but returned a similar wRC+ (106)post trade: .277/.759, 3 HRs over 134 PAs. And, more insult to injury, MLB Pipeline replaced Edgar with the other Quero (Jeferson) in its top 100 (and we have too).
173. (↑) Kevin Parada C NYM 22.1 A+ 2025 (MLB #37/#36/#28/#89/NR/NYM#9 | Roto #86/#74/#97/#124/#295)
The former highly esteemed slugger from the college ranks (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. While we expected 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), pro ball (including A+) was no parade: .265 Avg / .787 OPS, 11 HRs, 1 SB, 382 PA's, 115 wRC+ The introduction to AA was far worse with a 70 wRC+ and a 38.3% K rate. Both MLB Pipeline and Roto are acknowledging what we said last year, Parada was overrated. It's not his fault the rankings overhyped him, with MLB Pipeline dropping Parada from the top 100.
174. (↑) Jake Thompson 1B/OF MIA 26.0 AA (MLB NR | Roto NR)
You're not going to find Jake Thomspon on many (if any) ranks. Why? Because he was old for college (and bounced betwen SD State, KY and OK State) and wasn't drafted! When MIA signed Jake, they bypassed the complex league and started him in 2022 (at age 24) at single A where Jake hit fine, but not remarkably. In 2023, MIA jumped Jake up to A+ where he hit 16 HRs in 339 PAs with a low K rate 18.0% and good walk rate (11.2%) for a .409 wOBA and 153 wRC+. Let's see how the corner outfielder and undersized 1B (6'0") handles AA in 2024.
175. (↑) Dillon Dingler C DET 25.6 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/DET #14/DET #11/#14 | Roto NR)
Detroit's future backstop can really Ding it: 14 in 2022 and 16 so far in 2023 (in 324 AB's). But a good year at AA (131 wRC+) didn't translate to success at AAA (56 wRC+, 109 PAs). A 31.2% K rate also didn't help.
176. (↑) Aaron Palensky OF 25.6 NYY AAA 2025 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
Love the mustache, hate the AA and AAA production. After having little problem with High A (.352 Avg/1.178 OPS, 12 HRs, 10 SBs, 143 PAs), Aaron really struggled out of the gate in Somerset. But, if you watch him bat, you'd never guess it. And despite the .183 Avg /.710 OPS, 226 PAs, 99 wRC+, .327 wOBA, NYY was aggressive and promoted Aaron to AAA Wilkes-Barre for 40 PAs where he hit about the same (so at least it didn't get worse, though the K rate did: increasing to 32.5% from 23.5%)
177. (↑) Zach Kokoska OF COL 25.5 A+ 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
What do we do with a near 25 year old destroying High A? Well, we have to put him somewhere, especially after hitting .303 / .961, 16 HRs, 18 SBs over 322 PAs for a 154 wRC+ (Matt Holliday type numbers!) Promote this guy already!
178. (↑) Bradlee Beesley OF CHC 26.1 AA 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
After a mediocre start to his professional career, CHC didn't really know where to place Bradley and came out cautious with games at A+ (even though Bradley had already advanced to AA). Being far too old for High A, it took only 60 PAs for CHC to promote Beesley back to AA where this time, he got out super hot: .264 Avg/.975 OPS, 7 HR, 10 SBs 134 PAs, .433 wOBA, 157 wRC+ before going stone cold over the next 140 PAs and ending with still just the same 7 HRs, a 29% K rate and an wRC+ of just 113. While we love the 9.2 Spd rating, the .262 ISO fell to .183 as Bradlee sputtered to the end.
179. (↑) Austin Wells C NYY 24.8 AAA 2024 (MLB#82/#76/NR/NYY#7/#5 | Roto #87/#80/#96/#121/#89)
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. In 2022, the wRC+ of 145 (good for 59th in MiLB) helped him do that. But, the 2023 wRC+ line (of 104) wasn't as kind as the .240 Avg/.760 OPS /.346 wOBA weighed down the wRC+ measure of success despite 24 2Bs, 17 HRs and .202 ISO (in 429 PAs). Austin didn't earn a promotion to AAA, but he's there.
180. (↑) Yofran Medina 1B LAD 19.2 ACL 2026 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
The 6'4" Venezuelan destroyed the DSL in 2023 (5 HRs, 1.204 OPS, 204 wRC+, 106 PA's), but, it was just the DSL and it was a repeat of 2022. Let's see how he does in the ACL and Low A in 2024
181. (↑) Austin Shenton 1B TB 26.2 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/TB #26/#8 | Roto #147)
Although not a real big guy or your prototypical first baseman, Austin hit 29 HRs in 2023 in just 473 ABs across AA and AAA. That's pretty good, as was the 1.035 OPS in AAA. He's knocking at the big league door and may push Aranda out.
​182. (↑) Keiner Delgado SS NYY 20.2 A 2026 (MLB NR/NY#24/#21 | Roto NR/#303/#226/#263)
Although Keiner spent 2022 in the Dominican Summer League, he dominated that circuit in a way that few have. Batting .310 with 34 SBs in 54 games, the 5'8" switch hitting middle infielder showed patience at the plate (58 BBs to just 28 K's) while swatting 3 HRs, 4 3Bs and 16 2Bs (for a 1.010 OPS) AND the top wRC+ in MiLB in 2022 (178) for players 27 and under, which also earned him SS of the year honors in the DSL. Only 10 players posted an wRC+ of 178 or higher in the DSL (over the past 7 years) including Andres Gimenez (CLE 2B/SS) who hit .297 in the bigs last year with 17 HRs (for a MLB wRC+ of 140). By comparison, the Mariners' Julio Rodriguez had a wRC+ of "just" 161 in the DSL. For 2023, with no reason to repeat DSL, NYY started Keiner in the FCL and he's hit as well he did in the DSL last year (.293 Avg/.898 OPS, 8 HRs, 36 SBs, 239 PA's) with one exception, the BB% is down (24.4% to 15.1%) bringing his OBP down from .504 to .414 (still very good of course) -- but we are talking complex league AND the 138 wRC+ was a drop off from his 2022 line.
183. (↑) Enmanuel Tejada 2B/3B/SS NYY 19.3 A (MLB NR | Roto#260)
Keiner's teammate in the DSL and in the FCL league is this guy, Enmanuel Tejada. Although Keiner out-performed Enmanuel in the DSL, it was the reverse in the FCL, but mostly because of a 20.3% BB rate for Tejeda in 2023. While DSL and CPX results aren't necessarily very good at predicting success in the higher minors, they also can't hurt and show us speed, power and contact rates. Like Delgado, Tejada has the speed and contact skills that we're looking forward to seeing in Low A.
184. (↑) Carlos Sanchez 3B/SS/OF CIN 19.2 A 2025 (MLB NR/CIN#24/#26 | Roto NR)
Like Tejada and Delgado, Reds international prospect (and top 30 overall prospect), Carlos Sanchez has gotten off to good start to his professional career (152 wRC+, 7.8 Spd grade, .456 wOBA over 376 PAs)) and we'll have a better idea of how good he is after a full year in A ball.
185. (↓) Jesus Rodriguez 1B/C NYY 21.11 A+ 2025 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
After being named 1st Team 1B in the FCL (.439 wOBA, .348 Avg/1.120 OPS, 12.6% K rate), Jesus got off to a slow start in Low A in 2023 before rebounding to a .297 Avg/ .804 OPS, 6 HRs, 15 SBs for a 121 wRC+ which wasn't spectacular but which led to a promotion to High A where Jesus hit very well (172 wRC+) over 112 PAs (hitting HRs and stealing bases at a 33% higher clip).
186. (↑) Ronny Mauricio 2B/SS/3B NYM 22.11 IL 2023 (MLB #53/NR/#94/#56/#87/NR | Roto #231/#146/#76/#47)
Maybe Ronny doesn't get as much credit as he should. Think Alfonso Soriano here (2022: .259 Avg, .768 OPS, 26 HRs, 20 SBs and 125 K's in 509 ABs [23.1%]) But, the overall 2022 line at AA, comparatively speaking, was not great (wRC+ 104, #700 in MiLB). To start 2023, Ronny had the promotion birds chirping when he got off to a hot start: .351 Avg / .976 OPS, 22 2Bs, 7 HRs, 9 SBs, wRC+ of 141. But then he fell back to earth and a 108 wRC+ -- while still holding a line of .292 Avg/.850 OPS, 23 HRs, 24 SBs. Pretty good right? And that's despite impatience at the plate [6.6% BB]. The call up to the majors finally came and Ronny had some good moments (despite the .248 Avg and 80 wRC+). And so 2024 looked promising, until Ronny tore his ACL putting him into IL terriroty and a long rehab.
187. (↑) David Festa RHP MIN 23.10 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/MN#7/MN#9/#5 | Roto #174/#295/#327/#143/#156)
After a great start to 2022 (A ball, then A+), striking out 78 batters in 66.1 IP and sporting a cool 1.76 ERA & 2.51 xFIP [5th in MiLB at the time]) David struggled towards the end to finish with an xFIP of 3.75 (#322 MiLB) and a more modest K rate of 9.38 per 9. 2023 has been up and down too, with David getting off to a hot start before cooling to an unsightly 5.15 ERA over 64.2 AA innings with 84 K's (11.69/9) but a high 1.44 WHIP. After a good couple of AA starts (Aug 6, 13, 23) which brought David's ERA down to 4.39, Minny promoted David to AAA where he continued that recent string of good starts, pitching to a 2.92 ERA and 15 K's in 12.1 IP (but far to high a WHIP: 1.54) By the end of the season, the 6'6" Festa had an average fastball (sitting at 93-96) to pair with at least an average slider and change; but the 11.60 (K/9) and 3.77 xFIP on the year were good, placing him 29th and 53rd respectively (min 90 IP). Fangraphs is bullish with a 50 FV (since only five pitchers have a 55 or 60 grade).
188. (↑) Connor Norby 2B BALT 23.9 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/BAL#7 | Roto#98/#25/#31/#34/#102)
The line at AAA Norfolk in 2023 looks pretty good: .290 Avg, .842 OPS, 21 HRs, 10 SBs in 633 PA's., but the wRC+ (109) and wOBA (.370) aren't as kind (as the .193 ISO and 7.1% walk rate held Connor back).
189. (↑) Zach DeLoach OF CHW 25.7 AAA (MLB NR/SEA#26/NR | Roto NR)
Zach just quiely goes about his business, batting .286/.868 OPS, 30 2Bs, 23 HRs good for a 111 wRC+ -- just a touch below his career 113 wRC+. A deep stat about DeLoach is his being 2nd in wRC+ in AAA among players with 600 PAs (behind Justyn-Henry Malloy). Of course, only 6 players qualified with 600+ PAs so maybe the positive is durability. BBut, what you get from Zach is day to day consistency. Maybe no wow, but decent production.
190. (↑) Alberto Rodriguez OF SEA 23.5 AA 2025 (MLB NR/SEA #25 | Roto NR)
Despite his success in Class A+ in 2023: .306/.973 OPS, 30 2Bs, 7 3Bs, 11 HRs, .266 ISO, 6.7 Spd rating (for a 158 wRC+), Alberto has been off the prospect radar. But SEA recognized Alberto's success at A+ and promoted to AA where, at about 1 year below the average age, he was an average level player (102 wRC+, .291 Avg/.746 OPS, .346 wOBA over 202 PAs). So what do we do? hang out hat on the 158 wRC+ from A+ where he was a tad old, or we we get excited about being a replacement level AA player? We say let's temper expectations.
191. (↑) Luis Morales RHP OAK 21.6 A+ 2026 (MLB NR/ OAK#5/#3 | Roto #185)
192. (↑) Ryan Clifford 1B/OF NYM 20.6 A+ 2026 (MLB NR/NYM#6/#4 | Roto #257)
193. (↑) Sebastian Walcott SS TEX 18.0 A+ 2026 (MLB #96/#62/#71 | Roto #21/#65)
.154 in A+ wasn't inspiring, but he's just 17 and, he hit 7 HRs in limited time in the ACL.
194. (↑) Oliver Carrillo 1B/OF SDP 22.0 DSL 2026 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
195. (↑) Jared Serna 2B NYY 21.1 A+ 2026 (MLB NR/NYY#30/NYY#18 | Roto NR/#385/NR)
How about this off the radar prospect? Well, this future Bronx Bomber comes in the form of the rather diminutive Jared Serna (5'6" - 168). But don't let the stature fool you, as Serna hit 6 HRs in 129 ABs in the FCL sporting a .965 OPS (to go with 16/20 SBs). That production resulted in a promotion to A ball in Tampa where, in 2023, Serna compiled a .283 Avg /.833 OPS, 21 2Bs, 19 HRs, 19 SBs over 443 PAs with just a 16.9% K rate (good for 123 wRC+). that led to a promotion to Hudson Valley where Jared had 109 ABs but a power outage (0 HRs/.389 SLG). We see a repeat of A+ to start 2024.
Noticeable omissions (from our ranks)
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Rhett Lowder RHP CIN 21.10 A+ 2026 (MLB#41 | Roto #97)
Mick Abel SP PHIL 22.5 AAA 2024 (MLB#41/#45 | Roto #177/#201)
Sitting 91-95 isn't going to wow us. but the 2023 BAA of .193 and 1.26 WHIP were decent.
Anthony Solometo LHP PIT 20.7 AA 2024 (MLB #89/#84 | Roto#78/#168)
Aidan Miller 3B PHIL 19.7 A 2026 (MLB #90 | Roto #90)
Samuel Zavala OF SDP 19.6 A+ 2026 (MLB #93 | Roto #114)
Tommy Troy SS AZ 22.0 A+ 2025 (MLB #97 | Roto#61/#66)
Jacob Melton OF HOU 23.4 AA 2026 (MLB NR/HOU #1 | Roto #226)
Blake Mitchell C KCR 19.3 ACL 2027 (MLB NR/KC #1 | Roto NR)
Chase Davis OF STL 22.3 A 2025 (MLB NR/STL#3 | Roto#62/#213)
Jacob Berry 3B/OF MIA 22.8 AA 2025 (MLB#49/#61/#71/NR/MIA#4 | Roto #143/NR | DF NR)
Sure, MIA took Jacob #6 overall in the 2022 draft and he was a top college hitter....but, with the lack of speed and average power, Jacob is going to really need to hit to stick -- and the .248 Avg, .705 OPS from 2022 doesn't get us there nor does the .233 Avg in 2023 w/ .673 OPS over 430 PAs.
Cam Collier 3B CIN 19.2 A 2026 (MLB NR/#69/#56/NR/CIN#5 | Roto #78/#45/#69/#205/#170)
Brayden Taylor 3B TB 21.8 A 2025 (MLB NR/TB#5 | Roto#66/#87)
Miguel Bleis OF BOS 19.4 A 2026 (MLB #82/NR/BOS#5 | Roto #166/#184)
Landon Sims RHP AZ 22.6 ACL 2025 (MLB NR/AZ#6 | Roto #135/#156/#274 | DR#75)
Ryan Bliss 2B/SS SEA 24.1 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/SEA#14 | Roto NR/#365| DR #112)
Clayton Beeter RHP NYY 25.3 AAA 2024 (MLB NR/NYY#14 | Roto NR/#354/#202 | DR #146)
After being traded from the Dodgers in 2022, 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. In repeating AA ball in 2023, Clayton looked good pitching to a 2.08 ERA in 60.2 IP with 76 K's. After a promotion to AAA, it was more of the same (at first) with a 3.26 ERA and 30 's over the initial 19.1 IP before he was roughed up a few times and concluded with a 4.94 ERA over 71.0 IP, 89 K's. While the K rate was good, the WHIP wasn't (1.48), and the xFIP fell outside the top 200 pitchers. Fangraphs has Clayton rated with just a 40 FV, and we watched Clayton throw on 6/30, as he operated in a less than dominating 90-93 range over 5.2 IP while giving up 4 ER. In his final 2023 start, the velo was up to 95.6 (which was a big improvement from the last time we watched), but mostly sat 92-94. We ended up selling our shares here.
Robert Perez Jr. 1B/OF SEA 23.1 AA 2024 (MLB NR/SEA#19/SEANR | Roto NR/#321/#348/NR | DR 161)
Brock Jones OF TB 22.4 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/ TB#11 | Roto NR/#233/#214/NR | DR 17)
Alex Ramirez OF NYM 20.6 A+ 2025 (MLB#96/#81/NR/NYM#5/NYM#11 | Roto#67/#92/#149/#282/NR | DR175)
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Recent gradutions (and exclusions): Mason Miller (#2); Christian Encarnacion-Strand (#3); Henry Davis (#4); Zack Gelof (#22); Logan O'Hoppe (#26); Jonathan Aranda (#28); Mark Vientos (#33); Jordan Westburg (#34); AJ Smith-Shawver (#43); Endy Rodriguez (#54); Sal Frelick (#57); Masyn Winn (#58); Tyler Soderstrom (#82); Kyle Harrison (#87); Dominic Canzone (#113); Oswald Peraza (#125); Enmanuel Valdez (#128); Bo Naylor (#130); Gavin Stone (#145); Quinn Priester (#168)
**Fangraphs wRC+ statistics used (though 12/1/23), with a Min 200 Plate Appearances or 40 IP
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