2023 PROSPECT RANKINGS 3.0
THE TOP 175: 5/25/23**
With nearly two months of the 2023 baseball season gone, it's time for an update to our Top 175! Though, those two months are of AAA (less than that for the lower classes, and none yet for DSL), so while we probably should temper our knee jerk reactions (hot/cold starts), we have a wealth of graduations and we've seen enough from some players (approx 25-30% of the approx. 500-550 PAs for an average season) to either second guess our earlier choices, or to add prospects that weren't on our radar.
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But before we launch into our 2023 2.0 version, 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, save for Francisco Alvarez, which was the glaring exception).
Which brings us to the next point? Why should you use our ranks? Well, because we are not simply regurgitating information from other ranks, we are valuing players differentlly -- hopefully, 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 (like we were on Gunnar and Estuery Ruiz). 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. 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 2022 vs 2023, ah well).
The MLB Pipeline and Roto ranks below date back to Sept 2022, March 2023 and May 2023, and for some players, there's a 4th number dating back to May 2022). (So if you see MLB #5/#7/#9/#2, the first number would be May 2022, the last number May 2023). But, MLB Pipeline's ranks have been undergoing constant alterations (even without an official re-rank release--i.e. telling us). 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, but as that's the gold standard, we think we can help lift them.
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.
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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....
**Note: 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 175. Sometimes we'll use A and A+ to designate the two Single A levels and sometimes we use "Low" A and "High" A.
2023 MLB Season (May Update)
Top 175 Prospects 3.0
1. (↑) Gavin Williams RHP CLE 23.10 AAA 2023 (MLB #79/#53/#19 | Roto: #39/#29/#32)
Gavin has picked up where he left off, dominating AA (0.63 ERA, .063 WHIP) and earning a promotion to AAA where he continued his success (25.2 IP, 2.10 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, 36 K's). On 5/10, we watched Gavin dominate (5.2 IP, 10Ks, 1 ER) a MLB ready Louisville lineup that included prospect studs EDLC, CES, Mclain & two recent major leaguers in Will Benson and Jason Vosler. Although FanGraphs increased its FutureValue for Gavin from 45+ to 50, it's still far behind, as Gavin Williams and his 100mph heater and plus slider are nearly unhittable and worthy of a coveted 60 grade. Gavin coming in as our number 1 wasn't a big leap since he was #3 in our last rank but its good to see MLB move him up from 53 to 19. But most importantly, Gavin is ready to dominate on the big stage, in Cleveland!
2. (↑) Andrew Painter RHP PHI 20.1 AAA 2023 (MLB #54/#24/#6/#3/#12 | Roto #134/#16/#28)
Andrew may be a Painter by name but his occupation is electrician because the guy is lights out. Standing 6'7" (6'7" + 1/2 with cleats), that tall frame and downward angle is generating some serious heat with a 100mph FB, 3 plus pitches leading to 155 K's in 103.2 IP in 2022, including 37 K's in 28.1 AA innings (2.54 AA ERA). With an overall ERA of 1.56 (on the year) and a 2.64 xFIP [10th best MiLB], Andrew has fast tracked his arrival. FanGraphs gives Painter a coveted 60 FV (making him one of only 4). But, Andrew hasn't pitched spring training (due to a UCL sprain), so we are cautiously optimistic all is well here. Meanwhile, MLB and Roto both penalized Andrew by moving him down. Great, that means this is a trade opportunity for you (to try and get a discount).
3. (↑) Ricky Tiedemann LHP TOR 20.9 AA 2024 (MLB#64/#32/#26 | Roto #78/#19/#30)
Ricky exploded on our boards after pitching to a 1.80 ERA and striking out an incredible 49 batters over 30 IP in low A which (at that time) was good for a MiLB best 2.37 xFIP (and a 42.5% K rate) with batters hitting just .109 (lowest in MiLB). Not only did the promotion to A+ not slow Tiedemann down, but the 2.39 ERA and 54 K's over 37.2 IP only served to springboard him to AA where he made 4 starts and struck out 14 over 11 IP. While he has an arsenal of offspeed pitches to get outs, Ricky T hit 99mph this Spring. If he can keep his top 25 metrics (i.e. the 2.87 xFIP and 0.86 WHIP), he'll not only tear up AA and AAA but will be majors bound. (Note: a potential arm injury [reportedly a biceps tstrain] has sidelined Ricky for the time being).
4. (↑) Eury Perez RHP MIA 20.11 AA 2024 (MLB #16/#9/#13/#7 | Roto #30/#18/#29)
​At an intimidating 6'8" with a 99 heater and maybe more in the tank (and 3 potential + pitches), Eury Perez projects to be a frontline starter. However, Eury didn't make the jump from AA to AAA as the production fell off the projection a bit and found Eury ending the campaign with a 4.08 ERA (though jut a 3.52 xFIP which is good for #30 across MiLB). Still Eury struck out a pretty incredible 12.72 per 9 IP. So, not to worry, despite the up and down season, there's not just buzz here, but substance. Fangraphs agrees, making Eury one its top rated pitcher with a 60 FV [Note: Fangraphs had Eury at 65FV before its latest update). And in 2023, Eury pretty easily handled AA batters, compiling a 2.32 ERA (and 42 K's in 31 IP), which in turn earned him a call to the bigs (and a successful debut on 5/12/23: 4.2 IP, 2 ER, 7 K's, adn a second even better start vs the Nationals 5 IP, 1 ER, 6 K's, but a third that didn't go so well: 4.1 IP, 3 ER).
5. (↑) Elly De La Cruz 3B/SS CIN 21.4 AAA 2023 (MLB#50/#14/#10/#7/#4 | Roto #26/#6/#9)
Everyone loves Elly De La Cruz (and by everyone, we mean everyone doing fantasy ranks). Batting .304 w/ an OPS of .945, 28 HRs and 47 SBs (just 6 CS) in 2022, you can see why. After getting off to a cool start to 2022, Elly heated up (and kept heating) to the tune of the 27th best ISO (.282) and 37th best wRC+ (150) Those are all very good metrics, but the one that hurts is the far too high strikeout rate (30.8%) which lowered his wOBA to .409 (75th best). At 6'5" you're getting the non-prototypical SS (maybe somewhat like the Pirates O'Neil Cruz). Elly had a slow start to 2023 by sitting out the first three weeks due to injury, only to return and struggle to hit (.262 Avg/ .761 OPS over his first 65 ABs w/ 22K's). And then EDLC got it his groove back batting .324/ 1.301 OPS, 5 HRs over his last 10 games (37 ABs), including the hardest hit ball (118.8 MPH) in the minors OR majors for the year.
6. (↑) Christian Encarnacion-Strand 1B CIN 23.5 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/CIN#7 | Roto #233/#63/#60)
With all their trades, Cincinnati revamped what had been a weak minor league system into one of the best. Obtaining Strand from Minnesota was one of those moves. In 2022, in 484 ABs across A+ and AA, Christian hit a whopping 32 HRs while batting .304 (.955 OPS) for a wRC+ of 152 (good for 27th). And, in 2023 Strand didn't hit the brakes (batting .365 with a 1.136 OPS, 10 HRs over 96 ABs, but just two walks). Strand is the real deal and MLB Pipeline and Roto are way off here (even we were too Bearish with Strand at #31 in our pre-season rank. While Strand may be known as an average fielder, as ST showed, Cincy has to find a way to get his bat into their lineup.
7. (New) Mason Miller SP OAK 24.9 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/#97 | Roto #77)
Although a UCL sprain has shut Mason down for the time being, before that, he and his 101mph FB rocked onto the baseball scene after mowing down MiLB hitters (8.2 IP, 19 K's!!!), getting the quick call to a pitching desperate Oakland side, where he immediatley established his presence as the Athletics SP1 (3.38 ERA, 21.1 IP, 22 K's). With a FB that averaged an incredible 98.3 during his first 4 starts and three plus pitches (FB, slider, change), Mason has a bright future ahead. Fangraphs thinks so too with a 50 FV. As far as ranks go, he really wasn't on many radars before this year, having only thrown 14 IP in 2022.
8. (NC) Jackson Holliday SS BALT 19.5 A+ 2025 (MLB#13/#9/#3 | Roto #12/#15)
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. Fast forward to 2023 and Jackson had figured out low A (.392 Avg, 1.190 OPS), earning a promotion to A+ where he continued to dominate (.388 Avg, 1.201 OPS over 67 ABs). Look, despite our relative bearish stance on the baby-faced Holliday, he's really really good already and obviously only going to get better. But the numbers he's putting up at this age at this level is incredible (for any age).
9. (↓) Jordan Walker 3B STL 21.0 AAA 2023 (MLB #6/#4/#1 | Roto #4/#3)
After hitting .306 with 19 HRs, 31 2Bs, 22/27 SBs and an OPS of .898 (#101 MiLB) in AA, Jordan made his case for a Spring Training invite. There, Jordan wowed us, and more importantly, wowed the Cardinals which secured a roster spot out of camp. Jordan's MLB debut was stunning and he backed it up with a sweet 12 game hit streak. But then, the league caught up and Jordan cooled. And while he had held his own (.274, Avg .718 OPS), the Cardinals decided some AAA would help regain the launch angle and power stroke (Note: it hasn't, but we're not too worried yet). Jordan has an easy swing and big power (without having to overswing -- 21.6% K rate), coupled with above average athleticism. Although a much bigger version, Jordan reminds us of a Willie McGee out there: the swing, the gait, the demeanor, and maybe also as a future All-Star. But, and here's the kicker, Jordan Walker has a career 132 wRC+. Now that's not bad. I mean its pretty good. Most MiLB players will never have a 132 wRC+ in any year, much less their career. But, it does put him in with players like Jordan Westburg (who is pretty darn good too, but not top 10), Steven Kwan, Victor Caratini, Joe Adell, Robbie Grossman, Matt Chapman, Christian Walker, Jarren Durran, Mike Brousseau, Nick Solak, Nick Gonzales, Tyler Freeman, Brendan Donovan, Seth Beer, Mike Ford, Brad Miller, Cal Raleigh, Jesse Winker. But there are also guys that really excel from this wRC+ output (guys like Rafael Devers, Randy Arozarena, Jeremy Pena, Bryan Reynolds, Bobby Witt, Gleyber Torres, Trea Turner, Taylor Ward except this year's Taylor Ward), but there are fewer and fewer as you head down the wRC+ list. So, while this doesn't necessary mean anything, its just one of those predictor things that doesn't look as surefire good...
10. (↑) Kyle Manzardo 1B TBR 22.10 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/#73/#65/#50 | Roto #100/#7/#13)
MLB Pipeline was a little slow to recognize the Rays next superstar (but Roto wasn't). With an advanced plate approach, Kyle dominated High A (.329 Avg, 1.072 OPS, 17 HRs) to earn a promotion to AA where he continued to hit (.323 Avg, .978 OPS, 5 HRs in 99 ABs). But the two most impressive 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). As we predicted last year, Kyle wouldn't have a problem with AAA (.263 Avg, .887 OPS, 9 2Bs, 8 HRs, 133 ABs) and would be knocking on the major league door.
11. (↑) Matt Mervis 1B CHC 25.1 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/CHC #5 | Roto NR/#31/#38/#57)
After a stellar 2022 (5th in wRAA [41.6] and 15th in wRC+ [156]), it was a suprise to see CHC place Matt back in the minors to start 2023. Undetterred, 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 has struggled to a .220 Avg / .573 OPS with 1 HR over 41 PAs and a whopping 37.2% K rate). But, we're not worried, he'll figure it out. But this gets you a deal on a trade!
12. (↑) Logan O'Hoppe C LAA 23.3 MLB 2022 (MLB #89/#64/#53/#42 | Roto #154/#67/#65/#56)
Logan pretty well destroyed AA, and when the fightin' Phils sent him to LAA in a late season trade, the Angels couldn't resist a September call up. Having hit .283 with 26 HRs (.960 OPS), Logan looks to be middle of the lineup type bat. With a K rate of just 16.6% and an wRC+ of 159 (#10 MiLB in 2022), it's time we recognize how good Logan is. In fact, he's very arguably the best hitting catcher this side of the Pecos.....well, in all of MiLB! And, in Anaheim, Logan didn't let up, batting .283 with an .886 OPS to cement his job as the starting catcher for the Angels (current injury notwithstanding).
13. (↑) Henry Davis C PIT 23.8 AA 2023 (MLB #19/#57/#48 | Roto #21/#82/#92/#120)
Another player with a high ceiling is this guy. But, what sets Henry Davis apart is a high floor. If you were to build a prototypical catcher [robot or human] Henry Davis is the model. Davis just looks like a catcher, and has the hit tool unlike any other, save maybe his clone, Adley R. After a quick run through A+ (wRC+ 177, 1.035 OPS, 5 HRs, 5 SBs), Davis hit a wall in AA Altoona: .207 Avg, 4 HRs over 116 ABs. Look, we weren't thrilled with those numbers but we were convinced Henry D would bounce back in 2023. Overall the wRC+ of 136 (through 2022) put him even with Francisco Alvarez (but with better speed and fewer K's, but less power). And guess what? In 2023 Henry Davis is back to being Henry Davis (.309 Avg, 1.124 OPS, 9 HRs, 94 ABs) and ready for a promotion to AAA, which gives the Pirates a problem (albeit a good problem): they have 2 of the best catching prospects in baseball. Your problem? It's making a trade for Henry while MLB (and especially Rotowire) have him so lowly ranked.
14. (↑) Colton Cowser OF BAL 23.2 AAA 2023 (MLB #40/#31 | Roto #143/#15/#19)
Colton excelled in AA in 2022, batting .341 (1.037 OPS) with 10 2Bs and 10 Hrs in 176 ABs (resulting in an wRC+ of 184, which was tops in MilB, min 140 PA's). That earned Colton a promotion to AAA where he hit a bit of a wall (.219 Avg, .768 OPS, 38 K's in 105 ABs). But, that changed in 2023 where the meteoric rise continues due to a .331 Avg, 1.023 OPS, 7 HRs, 5 Sbs, 139 ABs with an astounding 35 BB's which is almost on par with his 40 K's. It's possible Colton debuts in 2023 but the O's have so much young talent so it may be difficult to find him a home (unless Cedric Mullins or Anthony Santander get moved).
15. (New) Nolan Jones OF COL 25.0 AAA 2023 (MLB NR | Roto #229)
Say hello to the forgotten Nolan Jones. Back in both 2020 and 2021, Nolan Jones was Cleveland's top prospect and ranked as high as #36 on MLB Pipeline's top 30. But since then, we've forgotten about Nolan. After his unremarkable debut with Cleveland (86 ABs, .244 Avg, .681 OPS), and the trade to the Rockies, Nolan had fallen off everyone's radars. But, in 2023, Nolan Jones said:
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As Nolan reminded us just how good he is: .362 Avg / 1.209 OPS, 11 2Bs, 2 3Bs, 12 HRs, 5 Sbs for the 2nd best wOBA (.510) in MiLB (trailing only Jackson HOlliday). You should think about going and
getting Jones the 6'4" slugger before he starts hitting 4-baggers in Denver! [Update, Nolan was just called up today, 5/26/23, for his second chance at the majors]
16. (↑) Kyle Harrison LHP SFG 21.9 AAA 2024 (MLB#21/#18/#17 | Roto #48/#22/#28/#38)
Although Kyle wasn't seen as a fireballer, his FB has clocked as high as 98 and Kyle does a good job mixing pitches/location/movement which all resulted in dominant starts at A+ in 2022 before a promotion to AA Richmond which didn't start well (2 starts, 9.1 IP, 7.71 ERA) but then grooved into a nice 3.11 ERA with 127 K's over 84.0 IP. In 2023, Kyle has struggled as of late, raising his ERA to 4.73 in 26.2 IP but striking out 47 batters -- with the 27 walks creating a lot of damage. Kyle has three plus pitches (FB/Slider/Changeup) and FanGraphs gives Kyle a a near top value 55 FV. And remember, the ball flies out of the PCL.
17. (↑) Mark Vientos 3B/2B/DH NYM 23.5 MLB 2022 (MLB NR/NYM #7 | Roto #141/#207/#226)
All Mark did was hit .280 (.877 OPS) with 24 HRs at AAA in 2023 (which was enough to earn him an MLB promotion). But while Mark has a propensity to hit long balls, he had an even likelier propensity to strike out, 122 in 378 ABs. After a positive ST, Mark set out to dominate AAA, and that he did, being one of MiLB's best players in 2023 (169 wRC+) behind a .333 Avg / 1.104 OPS, 13 HRs and just 34 K's in 166 PAs (20.5%). That has earned a longer look in NY and Mark aims to stay this time around. Why MLB and Roto don't see Mark's obvious talent is beside us! Go get him!
18. (↓) Endy Rodriguez C/OF PIT 23.0 AAA 2023 (MLB#97/#55/#45 | Roto #172/#57/#45)
Endy slugged his way through two levels in 2022 (A+ and AA) earning a promotion to AAA to finish the year (where his audition was spectacular: .455 Avg, 1.208 OPS. With an overall wRC+ of 166 (including a league leading 199 at AA), Endy had arguably the 7th best MiLB season in 2022 (all players, all factors considered). With good speed for a catcher and K rate under 20% (at 19.0%), Although he was on Pittsburg's 40 man roster, the Pirates opted to reassign Endy to AAA to begin 2023 where Endy has struggled (.245 Avg/.784 OPS, 122 PAs, 98 wRC+). But he'll get the ship righted (as he still holds a career 146 wRC+, on par with Brett Baty, Andrew Vaugn, Yandy Diaz, Bo Bichette).
19. (↑) Noelvi Marte SS CIN 21.7 AA 2024 (MLB#17/#29/#23 | Roto #37/#43)
After a slow start in 2023, Noelvi has turned it on (much liked he did in 2022), batting .276/.807 OPS, 5 HRs, 7 Sbs (143 PAs) (122 wRC+), looking to improve on 2022's line of .279 Avg, .829 OPS, 19 HRs and 23 SBs, wRC+ of 131 (which was good for #164 in MiLB in 2022). And for his career, Noelvi holds a 127 wRC+ which is in line with Jonathan India, Amed Rosario, Mark Canha, Mike Massey and Mark Vientos.
20. (↑) Tink Hence SP STL 20.9 A+ 2024 (MLB NR/#91/#77/#64 | Roto #298/#69/#91)
We kept an eye on Tink Hence last year, even before a mid-west scout contacted us to tell us how good Tink was ("Think Tink" he said). And maybe we were just too bearish on Tink...until now. With just 52.1 IP in 2022 (in low A), maybe it was also hard to fully evaluate Hence, but it's hard not to acknowledge how dominant he was in those games (81 K's, 15 BB's, .88 WHIP and MiLB leading 1.94 xFIP) Still, FanGraphs had just a 40+ FV grade on Tink in 2022 despite three plus pitches: a changeup, curve and a FB that can hit 99 but sits 93-96. (Fangraphs has since increased Tink's grade to 50 for 2023) So, as we Tinker with our ranks, look for Hence to recover from his early season injury, dominate A+ and move his way to AA in 2023. [Note: Tink pitched 3 scoreless innings, 5 K's on 5/12 in his return to the Peoria rotation, before a bit of a hiccup in his next start on 5/18: 4 ER, 5 IP]
21. (↓) Taj Bradley RHP TBR 22.2 MLB 2023 (MLB #34/#20/#18 | Roto #69/#27/#48)
A strong showing in 2022 in AA (1.70 ERA) led to a promotion to AAA...which came with a few hiccups and an ERA of 3.66. Still, after an overall stellar 2.57 ERA and 141 K's across 133.1 IP in 2022, Taj was promoted in 2023 and impressed with a 3.52 ERA and 23K's in 15.1 IP. With a ++ FB that can reach 99 and a ++ slider, Taj is [was] really
one pitch away from being an SP1 (except that he
plays for TB which, as always, is pitching rich).
Then came a AAA demotion, where Taj really struggled
to an 11.25 ERA in 16.0 IP, 5 HRs. 9 BBs, just 13 K's.
But then came the promotion (again) and more
dominance: 5 IP, 2 ER, 4 K akin to a scene out of
Storks: https://youtu.be/ZfjNDpZQvhk
22. (↓) Vaun Brown OF SFG 24.11 AA 2023 (MLB NR; SF#5 | Roto NR/#168/#145/#181)
It was a travesty that Vaun wasn't even in MLB's 2022 top 30 San Francisco Giant prospects (until the final ranks from MLB, appearing at #10 and now as SF's #5). And, it was also a travesty that San Fran decided to place Vaun in A ball (instead of A+) to start. Vaun took both in stride by batting .346 slugging 14 HRs and stealing 23 bases (to just 3 CS), which earned him a promotion to A+ Eugene where he got to play with the blue chip Giants prospects (Luciano, Matos)....and then outplay them! That on the field play earned Vaun an end of year promotion to AA. An old draftee (10th round, 2021), SF just underplaced, undervalued, underVauned Vaun who finished 1st in wRAA (47.3), 3rd in MiLB in wRC+ (175), & 5th in wOBA (.464). A Spd grad of 9.3 won't hurt his long term outlook either. This guy wants it and won't be a Richmond Flying Squirrel for long as he'll be knocking on the Bay door in 2023. But, for now, after a ST injury bug stalled the start to the minor league year, SF started Brown off in A ball (before moving him to A+ Eugene where he's compiled just 20 ABs so far but batted .300/.941 OPS). Come on SF, let's get Vaun back to Richmond!
23. (New) Ben Brown RHP CHC 23.4 AAA 2023 (MLB NR; CHC #6 | Roto #191)
Three weeks ago Ben Brown was barely on MLB Pipeline's radar (sitting about halfway down the Cubs top 30). Though MLB Pipeline has Ben up to #6 among Cubs prospects that's still a below value slot. After a breakout year in 2022 (104 IP, 149 K's, 3.38 ERA, between A+ and AA), Ben followed that up with an astounding start to 2023, buzzing through AA (20 IP, 30 K's, 0.45 ERA, 0.95 WHIP), which led to a promotion to AAA where Ben had fared exceptionally well until his last start (4 IP, 7 ER, 3 HRs). Still, the overall line is a decent one and it was just one bad start of 7 for the season -- and the only one in which Ben had given up more than 1 run in the game. With a + FB (that can reach 98 but is more in the 94-96 range), a + slider and + curve, Ben has three strong pitches that and a Fangraphs 50 FV that put him on the verge of a major league promotion.
24. (↑) Junior Caminero 3B/SS TBR 19.10 A 2025 (MLB NR/#60 | Roto #123/#81/#54/#40)
As good as Junior Caminero was in 2022 when he hit .299, .864 OPS, 6 HRs, 2 SBs in just 26 Low A games, Junior has been even better in 2023 in High A (.355 Avg / 1.108 OPS, 8-2bs, 3-3bs, 9 HRs for the 8th best wRC+ in MiLB (100+ PAs). Along with Mason Miller, Mark Vientos, Tanner Bibee and Ben Brown, Caminero (was #161) make up our biggest moves into the Top 25.
25. (↓) James Wood OF WAS 20.8 A+ 2024 (MLB #91/#34/#17/#8 | Roto #65/#11/#11/#18)
Though injuries (and a trade) blunted his 2022 campaign, James Wood still put together a .313 Avg with 12 HRs and 20 SBs (.956 OPS) across 293 ABs which was good for a 150 wRC+ (35th in MiLB). The 6'7" slugger is athletic, gets on base (career .439 wOBA) and doesn't strike out a ton (career 23.3% K rate). And the 75 K's in 2022 (21.6%) to 50 BBs (14.4%) isn't a bad ratio. SD gave up a lot to get Soto (but obviously it had to, if the Padres wanted Soto). Thus far in 2023, Wood has hit well for a level below where he should be, posting a .276 Avg / .880 OPS / 7.4 Spd rating but a 29.1% K rate over 141 PA good for a 132 wRC+ (#167 across MiLB for players with 100+ PAs).
26. (↑) Jackson Chourio OF MIL 19.2 AA 2024 (MLB #38/#10/#8/#5/#2 | Roto #89/#5/#6)
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 major concern. Still, Jackson earned the call to A+ where he didn't fare as well (.252 Avg, .805 OPS, but hit for more power: 8 HRS in 127 ABs). That power stroke "stoked" a promotion to AA where 23 ABs just weren't enough time to evaluate (but 11 K's in those first 23 ABs tend to make us think that the promotion came too early). For 2022 as a whole, Jackson's line resulted in a wRC+ of 135 (123rd overall) and put Jackson squarely into everyone's top prospects lists becuase of his age at the time (18). But, some of these lists have gone far far overboard in making Jackson a top 5 candidate (including MLB Pipeline and Roto). In 2023, the Brew Crew chose to keep Jackson at AA (as the youngest player there), where he's responded as well as you could expect from a 19 year old: .270 Avg, 21.6% K rate over 148 PAs with a .727 OPS good for an exactly average 101 wRC+ across MiLB putting him at #468 across MiLB (100+ PA's), BUT, #1 among 19 y.o.'s [Note: the 101 wRC+ is up from a low of 82 just 2 weeks ago] Jackson has great potential (and is just 19) but he's not jumping off the board at us in any category (.152 ISO, 5.3 SPD rating). Shouldn't we pump the brakes here a little bit? This situation reminds us of Orelvis Martinez. We're not hating on Chourio, we're just being realistic here (and yes, we've watched him, seen exit velos)....let's not get too crazy here (yet).
27. (↑) Gordon Graceffo SP STL 23.2 AAA 2023 (MLB#79/NR/STL#5 | Roto #87/#167/#212)
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 (4.91 ERA, 20 K's in 22 IP) including a most recent 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) ultimatley led to Gordon being shut down for the time being. Despite the recent hiccups, Gordo looks to be the real deal in Redbird land with a FB that hit 99 in that last start on 4/28 (but mostly sat 92-96), to pair with a plus slider, curve and changeup good for a 50 FV at Fangraphs.
28. (↑) Royce Lewis SS MN 23.11 MLB 2022 (MLB#58/#45#36 | Roto #2/#14/#9/#11)
Introducing Royce Lewis, your old/new Twins SS. Royce has been the presumed long term homegrown SS for MN since he was drafted first overall in 2017. But injuries and a really bad 2019 slowed the Royce train. But after two years off (the 2020 pandemic and a 2021 ACL tear), Royce rebounded in 2022 in a big way, hitting .313 at AAA (.939 OPS) which earned him a promotion to the bigs (2x) (before re-injuring his ACL). With his hot start at AAA in 2023 (3 HRs in 18 ABs, .444 Avg), look for Royce to rejoin MN this summer (either pushing Royce to 2nd or Correa to 3rd).
29. (↓) Daniel Espino RHP CLE 22.4 AA 2023 (MLB #11/#16/#52 | Roto #29/#35/#42/#76)
Espino can really sling it, reaching 102 mph on his heater while parked in the 97-100 range. That +++ FB anchors a 2.45 ERA with 35 K's in 18.1 IP. Fangraphs had a 60 future value/grade to Espino putting him on short list shared only by Shane Baz and Grayson Rodriguez -- making his stats and stuff (scouting praise) equally impressive. The problem for Espino, though, is not his stuff but his body. From knee tendinitis to shoulder problems, Espino was only able to muster those 18.1 innings in 2022. Coming into 2023, you knew Espino would be limited in innings pitched. But no one thought that number would be zero! But, yet another injury (resulting in right shoulder surgery) has derailed Espino's promising career. And even Fangraphs took notice, dropping Espino's FV to 50. So what do you do here? Is this a Sixto Sanchez situation? Oodles of talent but just can't stay on the diamond.
30. (↑) Evan Carter OF TEX 20.9 AA 2024 (MLB #56/#41/#11 | Roto #63/#29/#35)
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 .302 Avg, .856 OPS, 4 HRs and 8 SBs... With a career MiLB 139 wRC+, good walk rates and very good speed, Evan Carter is an exciting fantasy prospect.
31. (↑) Francisco Alvarez C NYM 21.6 MLB 2022 (MLB#1/#3/#1/grad | Roto #62/#57/#46)
After being promoted to AAA Alvarez quickly found himself atop MLB Pipeline's rankings as their #1 prospect, then #3 then #1 again (smh). In AAA in 2022, over 158 ABs, Alvarez added 9 more HRS (for 27 on the year which tied him for 33rd, and resulted in a wRC+ of 136). But, he hit just .234 in AAA with a 1.5 SPD grade, plus a K rate of 24.8% (plus subpar defense). Despite being disappointed at his return to AAA in 2023 (over a call to start in the bigs), Cisco continued to power his way through Syracuse (.250 Avg, 1.056 OPS) to "earn" a return to NY where he's hit .216/.667 OPS over 80 PA's. While maybe that's not a total disaster, it's just not great either (and that despite a 2 HR night on May 9th). Roto has the better rank here.
32. (↑) Marcelo Mayer SS BOS 20.5 A+ 2024 (MLB#7/#9/#5 | Roto #24/#33/#42)
The consensus #1 rookie prospect for 2022 dynasty drafts had good start to A ball, hitting .291, 7 HRs and 12 SBs over 189 ABs. Although Meyer had just 1 HR over his first 84 ABs, he picked up a little pop as the year went on and ended with 13 in 350 ABs (17 SBs) with a wRC+ of 143 (good for #70 in MiLB). In 2023, the Sox had Marcelo repeating A+ ball, where he has had no problem (.316 Avg/.938 OPS, 5 HRs, 4 SBs -- good for a top 85 wRC+ of 147) At just 20 years of age, Marcelo has lots of time to wow us and move up the charts.
33. (↑) Oscar Colas OF CHW 24.8 AAA 2023 (MLB#95/#74 | Roto #355/#105/#59/#36)
After rocketing up the White Sox minor league ranks (and blowing through each level), Oscar found himself in the Windy City...but a .211 Average (and worse, a .541 OPS) relegated Oscar to AAA Charlotte where Oscar has regained his stroke (.339 Avg, .932 OPS, 62 ABs). If Oscar can keeps hitting (as he did in 2022: .314 Avg, .895 OPS 23 HRs, 24 2Bs, wRC+137, #112MiLB), this will be a short stint in the minors.
34. (↑) Jordan Westburg SS BAL 24.3 AAA 2023 (MLB #94/#74/#52 | Roto #288/#112/#52)
It's rare that a prospect can hit so mediocre at AA (.247 Avg, 9 HRs, 3 SBs, 27.4% K rate) but then annihilate AAA. But that's what Jordan did in 2022, at least at first (.319, .974 OPS, 22.5% K rate) before cooling off to a .273 AAA avg, .869 OPS. Still, 2022 was a decent body of work (wRC+126 #233 overall) with the 27 HRs standing out the most. 2023 has been no let down as Jordan has jumped out to an impressive .313 Avg, 1.010 OPS, 12 HRs in 144 ABs. Look for Jordan to join (or, gasp, replace) Gunnar in BALT's INF soon!
35. (New) Andrew Abbott LHP CIN 23.11 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/#99 | Roto NR)
For the first month of the MiLB season there was perhaps no more a dominant pitcher than Andrew Abbott, pitching to a 1.15 ERA in AA 15.2 IP, 36K's, and then following that up with a 1.80 ERA in 2 AAA starts (10 IP, 15 K's) before a hiccup over the last two starts (10 IP, 8 ER, 4 HRs, 14 K's) raising Andrew's AAA ERA to 4.50 before regaining his edge and striking out 8 over 5 innings of no run ball on 5/19. Overall, its been a very promising body of work for the young hurler who doesn't rely on the overpowering fastball, but rather a mix of pitches to generate high swing and miss rates. Man, where is Roto here?
36. (↑) Edouard Julien 2B MN 24.1 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/#85 | Roto#258/#89/#67/#58)
2022 was a another good year for Edouard: .300 Avg, 17 HRs, 19 SBs, giving Edouard a career wRC+ of 149 (similar to Vinnie Pasquantino and J.D. Davis). So what would Julien do in 2023? Well, more of the same! After the promotion to AAA, Edouard has just kept getting on base: .272 Avg / .898 OPS, 4 HRs, 3 SBs for a 135 wRC+ [132 PA's]. A big part of that line is a keen eye and a 19.7% walk rate. Although the Twins gave Julien a brief call up in April, it didn't stick, but it and he will soon! [Update: The Twins called EJ up 5/20]
37. (↑) Nick Frasso RHP LAD 24.7 AA 2023 (MLB NR; LAD#9 | Roto NR/#181/#267)
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 has been LAD's best minor league pitcher of the year (to date). Frasso (along with the next two pitchers on our list) is not highly regarded by Fangraphs (40+ FV), but he should be. Pitching to a 1.01 ERA in 26.2 IP with 36 K's, Frasso has used an overpowering FB to set up a good change and decent slider. Together, the arsenal has been almost unhittable for AA batters and Nick is staring down a promotion to AAA or straight to the show! (though an injury on May 6th has kept Nick from pitching through today 5/19). MLB has Frasso up to LAD's 9th best prospect, but we have him up to our 39th overall! Not a bad trade by LAD....
38. (New) Emmet Sheehan RHP LAD 23.6 AA 2024 (MLB NR; LAD#13 | Roto #155)
LAD's 2nd best minor league hurler in 2023 (thus far)? Well that's this guy, Emmet Sheehan. Like Frasso, Sheehan has a big time fastball (that can hit 97 with movement), but a better changeup (though the slider and curve are deemed to be below average pitches). Using the fastball to set up the change, Emmet has struck out an incredible 58 AA batters in 34.0 IP, along with a 1.85 ERA. Fangraphs is behind on Emmet, giving him just a 40+ FV. Like Frasso, a call up to AAA should be imminent.
39. (↑) Carson Williams SS TBR 19.11 A+ 2025 (MLB#81/#72/#59 | Roto #145/#118/#195)
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 has hit even better: .287 Avg / .934 OPS, 6 HRs, 8 SBs for a strong 147 wRC+.
40. (↓) Bobby Miller RHP LAD 24.1 MLB 2023 (MLB#26/#24/#21 | Roto #85/#108/#62)
Some high heat for the 6'5" hurler, but also some struggles in AA to the tune of a 4.45 ERA. Still, Miller compiled a cool 117 K's over 91 IP in 19 starts. That production earned him a promotion to AAA where he struck out 28 in 21.1 IP (3.38 ERA). FanGraphs has Miller graded at a 50 FV with a ++FB reaching 102 which he pairs with a +slider. Bobby made his 2023 on 4/29 and it went well (,3.1 IP, 1 ER, 2K's), but starts two and three didn't go as well (4.3 IP, 11 runs, 7 earned, 4 K's). But start number four (6 IP, 1 ER, 6 K's) helped Bobby get back on track as he looks to join the big club in 2023. [Note, Bobby M was just called up and will start his 1st MLB game on 5/23/23. This was too early for Bobby, but LAD is facing a series of injuries to starting pitching, so unless they looked to AA (& N. Frasso has been out since 5/6), Bobby and his 100+ heater were staring at them from OKC]
41. (New) Jonatan Clase OF SEA 21.0 AA 2024 (MLB NR; SEA #12 | Roto #241)
What a year for the dimunitive Mariner's speedster. 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). But then came the promotion to AA Arkansas and a bit of a wall: .220 Avg/.693 OPS, 2 HRs but 10 SBs over 50 ABs.
42. (↑) Spencer Jones OF NYY 22.0 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/NY#3 | Roto NR/#121/#82/#104)
Can the 6'7" Jones be the next Aaron Judge? The Yankees maybe thought so when they took Spencer with the 25th overall pick in the 2022 draft. 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). The encore in High A has been good too: 139 wRC+ on a .292 Avg, .914 OPS, 7 HRs, 10 SBs in 135 PAs but too high a K rate: 32.6%.
43. (New) Matt McLain INF CIN 23.9 MLB 2023 (MLB#73/NR/#94 | Roto #233)
After an underwhelming 2022 in AA (116 wRC+ .232 Avg, .816 OPS, 28.1% K rate) we dropped Matt out of our Top 175 and MLB dropped him from their Top 100.
Well guess what?
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After the average slipped to .232 (in 2022) as the power increased (17 HRs in 103) we didn't know what Matt was becoming (a power hitter over a contact one). But the speed was also always there (27 SBs in 2022) which made the strikeouts more frustrating. So fast forward to 2023 and Matt worked out whatever kinks he had last year, batting .348 / 1.148 OPS, 12 HRs, 10 SBs and a 193 wRC+. It was so good, that CIN couldn't resist making Matt the first call up among EDLC and CES.
44. (↑) Clayton Beeter RHP NYY 24.7 AA 2023 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
After being traded from the Dodgers, one of our favorite, but forgotten hurlers found some footing in AA Somerset throwing 25.1 innings with a 2.13 ERA and 41K's. Home runs were a problem in Tulsa for the hard throwing righty, but not at Somerset. In 2023, repeating AA ball, Clayton has looked good pitching to a 3.48 ERA in 33.2 IP with 43 K's and may be an option in NY this year. And, despite 3 plus pitches, Fangraphs has Clayton (under) rated with just a 40 FV.
45. (↑) Pete Crow-Armstrong OF CHC 21.2 AA 2023 (MLB #78/#28/#23/#15 | Roto #23/#44/#65)
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 has been more of the same (.276 Avg /.789 OPS, 4 HRs and 10 SBs, 115 PA's -- good for a 115 wRC+ [320th best in MiLB, 100+ PA's]
46. (New) Jonny DeLuca OF LAD 24.10 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/LAD#20 | Roto #122)
We'll go back to back Dodger prospects here, but MLB has them misnumbered. 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, plus he's off to a good start in AAA.
47. (↑) Andy Pages OF LAD 22.5 AAA 2024 (MLB #48/#66 | Roto #118/#221/#195/#234)
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 136 wRC+, Andy looked to put 2022 behind and get his groove back in 2023. Repeating AA this year, 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 -- just one step away from the bigs. We're hot and cold on Andy (as Andy has been hot and cold), but hopefully you held...
48. (↑) Tyler Freeman 3B/SS CLE MLB 24.0 MLB 2022 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
Cleveland's #2 prospect back in 2020 (after strong Class A seasons), fell off the prospect radar with an unspectacular 2022: 104 wRC+ (AAA), which made us forget (too quickly) the 130 wRC+ in 2021 (AA). All Tyler needed was to get adapted to AAA pitching (it turns out) so he could do this in 2023: .329 Avg / .950 OPS, 2 HRs, 10 SBs, 13.8% K rate, .436 wOBA, 153 wRC+. That output earned Tyler a recall to CLE where Tyler has hit to a respectable 115 wRC+ line: .316 Avg, .771 OPS, 20 PAs.
49. (↓) Curtis Mead 2B/3B TBR 22.7 AAA 2023 (MLB #35/#33/#27 | Roto #32/#23/#14/#8)
After I give props to Roto, then go and rank Curtis #8. Look, the one constant for Mead was that he always hit, no matter where -- Australia, the US, A, AA, AAA...And in 2022, that meant a .298 Avg, .922 OPS and a 142 wRC+ (#75 MiLB). But then came 2023: .221 Avg, .646 OPS, 2 HRs, 95 PA's. We already had Manzardo ahead of Mead, but now he has been overcome by Caminero and soon Carson Williams...
50. (↑) Zack Gelof 3B OAK 23.7 AAA 2023 (MLB#94/NR/OAK #3 | Roto#45/#61/#142)
A favorite of ours from 2021, Zack didn't hit as much for average in 2022 (.270 Avg) but still hit pretty well (.815 OPS, 18 HRs, 13 SBs) with the power numbers being roughly on pace with 2021 (though the speed numbers were down). In 2023, after a slow start (.256 Avg, .805 OPS, 1 HR), Zack has really turned it on with a .298 Avg, .933 OPS, 3 HRs and an impressive 12 SBs (wRC+ 126) . Zack has a good approach at the plate and an advanced swing and should end up playing in the Bay in 2023.
51. (New) Bryan Woo RHP SEA 23.4 AA 2023 (MLB NR/SEA#6 | Roto #264)
I know, Woo who? With a very good fastball and average to plus secondary pitches (slider, change), Bryan Woo has gotten off to hot start at AA Arkansas (1.85 ERA, 0.82 WHIP, 34 IP, 49 K's just 7 BBs) and well outpitched Bryce Miller (who the M's suprisingly promoted to the show). We've watched two recent starts and came away impressed -- it Woo benefit you to add Bryan to your NA list!
52. (↑) Jasson Dominguez OF NYY 20.3 AA 2024 (MLB #37 | Roto #166/#26/#30/#12)
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. But there's promise here, top 50 promise. 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. But, none of that has really helped in AA Somerset where Jasson has hit a disappointing .198 /.745 OPS with 6 HRs and 14 SBs but a suprisingly average 103 wRC+ due to the 19.4% walk rate, bringing that career 121 wRC+ down.
53. (↑) Cole Henry RHP WAS 23.10 A 2023 (MLB NR/WAS#12 | Roto #204/NR)
Cole Henry boasts 3 plus pitches, including a 99 MPH FB. But injuries (like TOS) have slowed Cole's progress the talent and despite a 1.71 ERA 0.79 WHIP. And voila, we got our first look at Cole Henry in 2023 at Class A Fredericksburg on 5/16/23 going 3 IP, and allowing just 1 hit to go with 5 K's -- a very very promising start, which he followed on 5/21 with 4 IP, 6 K's and no ERs.
54. (↓) Druw Jones OF AZ 19.6 A 2025 (MLB#11/#13 | Roto #10/#14)
Druw Jones (Andruw Jones' son) is an ultra talented (5 Tool player), who AZ threw right into the mix starting off in A ball which hasn't just gone un-well but been embarrassingly bad (.175 Avg, .483 OPS over 40 ABs). Well, at least the K's are palatable: 14 in 46 PA's. So why have a near top 50 or even a top 100 rank here? Well, the answer is oodles of talent and just 19, with the full expectation that he'll turn it around.
55. (↑) Blake Sabol C/OF SFG 25.4 MLB 2023 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
Blake Sabol hit above average in AA, but really found his stride in AAA, striking out less (21.8% compared to 26.0% in AA), walking more (16.8% to 9.2%) hitting better (.296 Avg to .281) and with more power (.247 ISO to .205). That AAA line resulted in a wRC+ of 157 which would put Blake in the top 10 for AAA wRC+ with a min of 100 AB. But, Pittsburg chose not to protect him in the Rule 5 draft, so Cincy selected him and then shipped Blake to San Francisco where he, as we predicted, he would have a chance to play, and has he ever: .280 Avg / .803 OPS, 5 HRs, 13 RBI (while splitting C and OF duties). Now up to 100 PA's, Blake won't continue on this list for long!
56. (↑) Austin Wells C NYY 23.10 AA 2024 (MLB#82/NR/NY#2 | Roto #87/#80/#96)
Austin flew through the minor leagues in 2022, posting an overall line of .277 Avg, .897 OPS, 20 HRs, 13.9% BB rate and a surprising 16 SBs. Austin isn't known as a very good defensive catcher though, so he'll really have to hit to make and stick in the majors. the wRC+ of 145 (good for 59th in MiLB) will help him do that. The 2023 line in AA (at 137 wRC+ but just 70 PAs) is better than it looks due to strong power numbers: .238 Avg, 6 HRs, .885 OPS, .333 ISO.
57. (↑) Harry Ford C SEA 20.3 A+ 2025 (MLB #85/#65/#39 | Roto #107/#56/#79)
Ford is a highly touted athletic prospect that is Daulton Varsho 2.0 (the C/OF). Ford struggled at the beginning of low A ball in Modesto (.248 Avg, .784 OPS)​​ before turning a corner and finishing with a .274 Avg, .863 OPS, 11 HRs and 23 SBs. Ford began 2023 in A+ Everett (where he has hit a decent .258/.840 OPS 4 HRs/6 SBs with a 20.5% BB rate carrying him to a 134 wRC+) and should eventually make his way to AA Arkansas.
58. (New) Heston Kjerstad OF BALT 24.3 AA 2024 (MLB #53 | Roto #125)
Serious medical issues prevented Heston from beginning pro ball with his draft mates, but since he was cleared to play, he's been on a roll, including this year's 175 wRC+ based on a .318 Avg / 1.021 OPS, 9 HRs, 21 Runs, 19 RBIs, low 16% k rate, .451 wOBA (over 150 PA's).
59. (↓) Kerry Carpenter RF DET 25.8 MLB 2022 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
Where is the love for MiLB's 2022 #16 HR hitter (and #6 in wRC+ [168])? Despite 30 HRs, a .313 Avg and a promotion to AAA (where Kerry placed 4th in AAA wRC+ for players with 130PAs), MLB still didn't have Kerry ranked in Detroit's top 30, and Roto was MIA. Despite the off the prospect radar background, Detroit knew what it had when it promoted Kerry and when he hit .252 with 6 HRs in just 113 PA's. Kerry started 2023 in DET (in a DH timeshare with Cabrera) and was off to a fair start (wRC+ 103) before an injury which will temporarily sideline the slugger. The only bummer to us (about Kerry's game) is the lack of speed.
60. (↓) Tyler Soderstrom C/1B OAK 21.6 AAA 2023 (MLB#47/#39/#30 | Roto #44/#51/#57)
A horrendous start to 2022 had the Tyler fanclub paddling to shore, but the ship righted itself as Tyler navigated through A+, AA and into AAA. On the year, Tyler hit .267 (.825 OPS) with 29 HRs and 105 RBIs but a disappointing 26.1% K rate and perhaps an even more disappointing wRC+ of 116 (#418 MiLB). In 2023 in AAA, Tyler has posted a below average (88 wRC+/.306 wOBA) line of .266 Avg/.829 OPS, 8 HRs, 36 K's in 154 PA's. But with both Shea Langeliers and Tyler Soderstrom waiting in the wings, you can see why the A's could trade Murphy....
61. (↑) Luis Ortiz RHP PIT 24 MLB 2022 (MLB NR/PIT#8 | Roto #390/#93/#123)
The hard throwing Ortiz struggled in AA in 2022 (to the tune of a 4.64 ERA and 3.76 xFIP) but the Pirates made the decision to call him up anyway, and it went fairly well (4.50 ERA and a 9.56 K/9 rate). Strikeouts haven't really been a problem for Luis. More problematic has the fact that he's been fairly hittable (100 hits in 114.1 IP), given up too many walks (about 3 BBs per 9 innings) and the long ball (20 in 124.1 IP). But, after throwing 32.1 innings with a 2.23 ERA, the Pirates had seen enough and called Ortiz up. In his first two starts, that "hittability" thing had become a problem: 8 IP, 14 hits, .359 Avg, 2.38 WHIP, but Ortiz' 3rd start is what we had hoped for (7.2 IP, 2 ER, 4 K's)
62. (↑) Dalton Rushing C LAD 22.3 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/#69 | Roto NR/#176/#83/#99)
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 and we placed Dalton at #125. So we were looking forward to 2023 and Class A+, where Dalton has continued the power barrage: .259 Avg, .973 OPS, 8 2B, 7 HR (157 PAs) with almost as may walks (35) as K's (37) for the #16 overall wRC+ (179) in MiLB. Those lines caught MLB's attention who have him up to #69. We'll do one better at 62.
63. (↓) Emmanuel Rodriguez OF MN 20.3 A+ 2024 (MLB #92/#88/#76 | Roto NR/#62/#53/#39)
The player with the #2 wRC+ (at 196) [min 150ABs] was this, seemingly out-of-nowhere budding star (albeit before injury, and just 199PAs). So how did Emmanuel get there? The #1 reason is the willingness to take a walk (28.6%) and then walk more than striking out (26.1%). But it wasn't all bases on balls as Emmanuel also boasts a balanced line of .272 Avg, 1.044 OPS (good for #4 MiLB if he had 1 more PA), 9 HRs, 11 SBs. But alas, a knee injury had Emmanuel out for the remainder of the year. Still, he made his mark on us (and then MLB Pipeline followed us, naming E-Rod their Twins #3 prospect and #92 overall). Emmanuel's Spring Training 2023 got off to a positive start, but so far the campaign at A+ ball hasn't: .176 Avg, .734 OPS and a very, very alarming 32 K's in 70 PAs. Emmanuel was trying to hit everything out of the park, and since that failed, he's trying to retool his approach (which obviously isn't working just yet). He almost needs to go back to basics, choke up, chin in shoulder, smaller bat, you name it!
64. (↑) Nathan Hickey C BOS 23.2 A+ 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
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. When looking at wRC+, there's usually one underlying stat that stands out, and for Nathan, it was a 19.2% walk rate that drove a wOBA of .424.
65. (↑) Elijah Green OF WAS 19.5 A 2025 (MLB#28/#46/#38/#65 | Roto #33/#23/#41)
The 2022 5th overall pick appeared to hit well in Rookie Ball (.302 Avg, .939 OPS, 2 HRs in 29 ABs) but the 21 K's (right about 50% of his ABs) tells another story. That story followed Elijah into low A where he's hit just .245/.684 OPS with 55 K's in 127 PA's (43.3%) (99 wRC+). If Elijah wants to make it to A+ in 2023, he needs to get his K rate down into the 30% range. Other than that, he's fast, with big power (and has a great future ahead, of course, on projections, not production as this is another ones of those, along with Druw Jones).
66. (↓) Sal Frelick OF MIL 23.1 AAA 2024 (MLB #46/#30/#24 | Roto #116/#68/#39/#31)
We watched Sal a lot in 2022 because we watched Nashville a lot. There Frelick hit .365 (.943 OPS) with 4 HRs and 9 SBs (good for the 16th best wRC+ in AAA at 155). Overall, across three levels in 2022, Frelick compiled a 137 wRC+ (good for 107th best in MiLB [the 155 wRC+ in AAA placed him 1st among under age 28 prospects with 200+ ABs]). Then came a starring role in the WBC and Sal's star status was rising. However, the return to AAA was not as kind as Frelick got off to a poor start: .232 Avg, .628 OPS (but it was just 56 ABs before an injury shut him down for the year). Sal has a very good hit set, doesn't strike out much (11.2%) but lacks big power. He should be a threat to hit .300 in the bigs and steal 20 bases.
67. (↑) Coby Mayo 3B BAL 21.5 AA 2024 (MLB NR/BALT#9 | Roto #54/#60/#67)
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) before a promotion to AA where the average stayed but the power numbers dropped and the K's rose (.250 Avg, .729 OPS, 5 HRs, 128 ABs, 50 K's). The wRC+ on the year (110) was even worse, placing Coby at just #546 among MiLB players. But, at just 21 (AA average is 23.8), Coby could afford to repeat and ace the AA test, which, in 2023, he pretty well did: .261 Avg / .857 OPS with 4 HRs in 143 PA's with a 15.4% walk rate (and a .262 ISO) powering Coby to a suprisingly good 140 wRC+.
68. (↑) Cole Young SS SEA 19.10 A 2025 (MLB NR/#70 | Roto #161/#136/#159)
There's a lot to like in the 19 year old SEA 1st rounder (and Noelvi Marte replacement) who had no problem in Low A Modesto (in 2022) but the 2023 repeat of Low A hasn't gone as well (.265 Avg / .826 OPS but 27 BB's to 27 K's and 10 SBs. Look for Cole to be promoted to A+ Everett sometime this summer.
69. (↑) Colt Keith 3B DET 21.5 AA 2024 (MLB NR/#87 | Roto #202/#73/#77/#73)
You may remember Colt's name from our SPOW ranks, as in 2022 he batted .301, .914 OPS with 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 its been even better for Colt: .318 Avg / .964 OPS, 9 2Bs, 9 HRs over 174 PAs for an wRC+ of 157. Wow.
70. (↑) Brock Porter SP TEX 19.11 A 2026 (MLB#89/#94/#80 | Roto #207/#214/#178)
Texas is stockpiling some top arms and Brock Porter is no exception. MLB Pipeline's highest rated pitcher in the 2022 draft (and Baseball America's #7 overall) somehow fell to the 4th round and was scooped up by TEX who lured him away from Clemson. 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: 22.1 IP, 31 K's, 1.21 ERA.
71. (↑) Chase Petty RHP CIN 20.1 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/CIN#8 | Roto #388/#307/#353)
Although boasting a 100mph FB, Chase's best pitch is his slider (which is good, because it's the hardest pitch to hit in MLB 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. We'd expect Chase to settle in (he's not even 20 yet) and start to dominate hitters at A+ and AA. Chase got off to a late start (May 10th) and has just thrown 8 innings (good ones though: 2 ER, 9 K's to just 2 BB's, 1.13 ERA, 0.75 WHIP)
72. (↑) Joey Loperfido 1B/OF HOU 24.0 AA 2024 (MLB NR/HOU#16 | Roto NR/NR/NR)
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 (in A+) ball and a wRC+ of 166 at that level. So what could Joey do in 2023? How about a .309 Avg, .994 OPS, 5 HRs and 8 SBs over 94 AA ABs? Yeah, that's pretty good (and we didn't eve mention the high 15.5% BB rate and relative low 21.9% k rate) which has equated to a 148 wRC+ making Joey not only a strong prospect but maybe on your list of pick-ups.
73. (↓) Lazaro Montes OF SEA 18.7 ACL 2025 (MLB NR, SEA #10 | Roto #199/#93/#107/#121)
The 6'5" Lazaro Montes was Seattle's biggest international signing in
2021 (and big also meant standing taller than another pretty big guy:
Nelson Cruz). So with all the hype, what was Lazaro going to do in
his first taste of pro ball in the DSL? How about 10 HRs in 176 ABs,
an OPS of 1.007 and a wRC+ of 162 (good for 8th in MiLB in 2022).
That type of firepower should put Lazaro on everyone's radar (and
we've been the first to make that official). However, the current
problem for Lazaro is the K rate (33.2%). But look for Lazaro to find his way to the AZ complex league in 2023.
74. (↓) Jonathan Aranda 1B/2B TBR 25.0 AAA 2022 (MLB NR | Roto #82/#67/NR)
Jonathan Aranda can hit. While he didn't show it in 87 PA's at the major league level (.192 Avg, .264 wOBA), he will in 2023. In AAA in 2022, Aranda held a .400 wOBA over 465 PA's which was just behind guys like Alek Thomas (.402) and Corbin Carroll (.406) and ahead of players like Miguel Vargas (.397) and Gunnar Henderson (.393). In 2023, although the average has dipped, every other part of Aranda's game is up: .255 Avg, .924 OPS, 7 HRs, 19.4% BB rate in 144 PAs (139 wRC+).
75. (↑) Brayan Rocchio 2B/SS CLE 22.4 MLB 2023 (MLB #86/#69/#75/#63 | Roto #22/#35/#50)
Across two levels in 2022, Bryan batted .257 (.756 OPS) with 18 HRs and 14 SBs, and hoped that 2023 could improve on the career 116 wRC+. At just 22 years old, Brayan put together a top 50 AAA start to 2023 (.338 Avg / .882 OPS, 13 2Bs, 3 3Bs, 1 HR, 10 SBs and just a 13.1% K rate resulting in a 126 wRC+). That caught CLE's eye and Brayan received his first taste of the big leagues on May 16th, going 1/2.
76. (↓) Gavin Stone RHP LAD 24.7 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/#77/#56/#46 | Roto #99/#47/#25)
Although scouts reported Gavin reaching 97/98 on his FB while dominating hitters in 2022 (1.60 ERA, 12.04/9 K rate, 2.08 xFIP in AA; 1.16 ERA, 33 K's in 23.1 IP at AAA), the University of Central Arkansas product (and UCA's highest ever draft pick), hasn't found the same success in 2023. After making his major league debut on 5/3 (4 IP, 4 ER, 1 BB, 2 K's), Gavin returned to AAA OKC for a start on 5/9 where his FB sat 90-95, topping out at 95.9. The result was still good (5.1 IP, 1 ER, 4 K's but 4 BBs) Gavin is soon to get another chance for LAD (with May hurt and B.Miller struggling), but for his best pitch (the change) to be successful, his 4-seamer needs to be operating more in that 95-96 mph range. [Updated, Gavin was recalled and started for the @Dodgers on 5/22 with another poor outing: 4 IP, 5 ER, 1]
77. (↑) Michael Busch 2B LAD 25.6 AAA 2023 (MLB#42/#54/#44 | Roto #64/#162/#180)
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 career 124 wRC+), but in 2023, Michael put together a heck of a strong start: .301 Avg / .905 OPS, 3 HRs, 10 2Bs and more walks (24) than K's (23) resulting in 130 wRC+ and a brief cup of coffee with the Dodgers. If Michael keeps hitting AAA pitching, he'll get another chance soon enough.
78. AJ Smith-Shawver RHP ATL 20.6 A+/AA/AAA 2023 (MLB NR/ATL#4 | Roto #171)
AJ Smith-Shawver should be Atlanta's number one prospect (as he's already proven that on the diamond) starting in A+, dropping in at AA and then sitting in AAA, AJ Smith has had little trouble with MiLB hitters, pitching to a 1.09 ERA (3.00 in AA) with 45 K's in 33 IP, a .164 BAA, 0.94 WHIP. Utilzing an above average FB (which hit 96.9 in his last start against a tough Durham squad--Aranda/Manzardo), AJ sets up a plus slider and change and looks very comfortable out there sitting 93-96 with his FB (deep into the game).
79. (↓) Diego Cartaya C LAD 21.8 AA 2024 (MLB #8/#14 | Roto #109/#56/#75/#98)
A slow start in A ball in 2022 made Diego a bit of a forgotten figure to some, but he recovered to hita line resulting in a wRC+139 [93rd best in MiLB]. The concern in A ball in 2022 was the the 26.7% K rate, but Diego still held a very good wOBA of .400 (#109 MiLB). But once again, in 2023, Diego is off to another slow start (read: horrendous) over his first 107 PA's: .198 Avg, .651 OPS, 3 HRs, 33.6% k rate (wRC+ of 75).
80. (↓) Jordan Lawlar SS ARI 20.10 AA 2024 (MLB#12/#11/#9 | Roto #5/#3/#5)
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). 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 would result in positive numbers right? Not so far, over 137 PA's, Jordan has hit just .168 Avg, .653 OPS despite 5 HRs and 9 SBs resulting in a well below average wRC+ of 76 with a 30.7% K rate. Still, Jordan is just under 21, and can afford a set-back year.
81. (↓) Wenceel Perez 2B/SS DET 23.7 AA 2024 (MLB NR/DET#8 | Roto NR/#202/#395)
Wenceel broke out in a big way in 2022, batting .295, .902 OPS with 14 HRs while swiping 18 bags on his way to a .392 wOBA and 143 wRC+. Wenceel's previous HR high was 4, but the speed was always there. 2023 has seen a dip in production (in AA) with a .277 Avg, but just a .747 OPS, 2 HRs/9 SBs, 120 wRC+ (156 PAs). MLB recently moved Wenceel up from #15 to #8 in the DET top 30. Obviously, this is another prospect we're high on that the rankings world hadn't caught up to.
82. (↓) Brooks Lee SS/3B MN 22.3 AA 2024 (MLB #32/#31/#25 | Roto #59/#73/#80)
From a pure hitting standpoint, the one guy that most reminds us of Curtis Mead is Brooks Lee. After being selected #8 in the 2022 draft, the super advanced hitting Brooks skipped low A and yet had no problem with A+ (.289 Avg, .849 OPS, 4 HRs, 97 ABs) before a quick promotion to AA where he started again in 2023, but has struggled to the tune of a .252 Avg, .740 OPS and just 3 HRs in 155 PAs (98 wRC+)
83. (↓) DL Hall LHP BAL 24.8 AAA 2022 (MLB #67/#97/#82 | Roto #133/#85/#63)
Regaining his health in 2022, DL Hall put together a string of good starts in AAA to make the leap to the bigs! But, not only was the major league debut a little concerning (5.93 ERA), so were some of the minor league numbers. But, most impressive for Hall was the K ratio (striking out a whopping 137 batters over 84.1 IP). Of course, he walked 50 and gave up 67 hits (including 10 HRs), resulting in an overall ERA of 4.48 (1.39 WHIP). DL Hall is a fairly polarizing prospect with 3 plus pitches, a 98 mph FB (he averaged 96.2 in MLB in 2022) and a 50 grade from FanGraphs (was a 55 last year). But, a high ERA (minors and majors) and up and down stuff (literally) has many (including MLB) dropping DL Hall down the prospect list. 2023 is a good example, after another poor but brief MLB stint (3 IP, 6.00 ERA), DL has thrown 30.1 AAA innings w/ good results (3.56 ERA, 40 K's) but the velocity has been down. Take his May 10th start, e.g., DL's FB sat at 90-94, topping out at 94.5, well below his career averages; and yet he struck out 9 in 6 IP with 2 ERs given up (1 HR). DL Hall is going to have great games in the bigs and he's going to have some clunkers. Hopefully the great ones are a lot more plentiful than the not so great.
84. (New) Ryan Cusick RHP OAK 23.3 AA 2024 (MLB NR | Roto #222/NR/NR)
The former first rounder had a disastrous 2012, toting a 7.12 ERA across 43 IP which included a whopping 56 hits against. So what does Ryan do in 2023? He comes out and rebounds in AA, pitching to a 2.00 ERA across 27 innings, giving up just 16 hits (though walking a bit more per inning. Ryan carries some serious velo (100mph), and just needs to work on his secondary pitches of which the slider is the most promising.
85. (↓) Masyn Winn SS STL 21.2 AAA 2024 (MLB #90/#51/#50/#42 | Roto #75/#70)
Masyn is a pitcher/SS who focused on playing the field in 2021 and that decision paid dividends in 2022. Although the promotion to AA came with a major dip in production (down to a wRC+ of 117 (#398) after posting as high as 167 wRC+ in A+ (21st best in MiLB at the time). Masyn's 8.8 spd rating is legit (43 SBs, 8 3Bs)! And, those of you that watched the futures game saw Masyn throw a 99 mph heater from short to 1st! As one of the youngest players in AAA, Masyn struggled at first, but but has hit better as of late, putting together an underwhelming overall 83 wRC+ on a line of: .253Avg/.717 OPS, 5 HRs, 11 SBs. Masyn is uber talented on defense and will certainly contribute on offense (especially steals). But, a career 100 wRC says we're looking at a dud.
86. (↓) Adael Amador SS COL 20.1 A+ 2025 (MLB#61/#68 | Roto #146/#128)
Despite a very thin frame (6'0" 160lbs), Adael hit like Joey Gallo in A ball, posting a .292 Avg, .860 OPS, 26 SBs and a surprising 15 round trippers. Adael also has a great command of the plate (incredible for a 19 year old) as he drew 87 walks to just 67 K's. Although the 128 wRC+ didn't place Adael very high (#213 MiLB) the .402 wOBA was a strong indicator. Well, that success led to a promotion to A+ in 2023, where Adael has soared of late: .281 Avg / .864 OPS, 8 HRs, 7 SBs across 135 ABs (good for a 123 wRC+).
87. (↑) Owen White RHP TEX 23.9 AA 2023 (MLB#59/#66/#51 | Roto #170/#232#161)
Although he didn't dominate A+ in 2022 (3.99 ERA) the 81 K's in 58.2 IP caught a lot of folks' attention, including TEX brass who promoted Owen to AA Frisco where he pitched even better (2.49 ERA, 23 K's in 21.2 Innings to just 4 BBs). FanGraphs had graded Owen at a 50 with his slider being his best pitch (off a FB that sat at 92-95) but that was 2022. In 2023 FanGraps has Owen up to a 55 FV, with a slight uptick in velo (93-96). High spin rates and very good accuracy are also in the repertoire resulting in a decent 3.72 ERA but just 29 K's in 36.1 IP thus far.
88. (↑) Jackson Jobe SP DET 20.5 A+ 2024 (MLB#25/#38/#63/NR | Roto #139/#136/#169)
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 (98mph FB) has a 50 grade on FanGraphs but we're on a wait and see approach here.
89. (↑) Robert Hassell III OF WAS 21.9 AA 2023 (MLB #22/#35 | Roto #9/#45/#84)
San Diego gave up a very promising prospect, but obviously received a generational talent in Soto. Hassell put together a stellar campaign for the Padres in 2022 (Pre-trade), batting .299 with 10 HRs and 20 SBs (.846 OPS). But after the trade, things didn't go so well, and yet, the Nationals felt compelled to promote Hassell to AA despite struggling at their A+ affiliate (Wilmington). In 2023, in a repeat of AA, Robert is still struggling to put it together (.271 Avg, .765 OPS over 48 ABs) but a high walk rate (20.5%) has his wRC+ up to 114.
90. (↓) Bryan Mata RHP BOS 24.0 AAA 2023 (MLB NR; BOS#6 | Roto #278/#111/#266)
After recovering from Tommy John surgery, Bryan rejoined Boston's minor league system and quickly progressed to AAA where he pitched to a 3.47 ERA with 30 K's in 23.1 IP. In 2022, Bryan threw 83 innings with a very good 2.49 ERA and 105 Ks to 46 walks (3.64 xFIP). But 2023 hasn't been as successful, as Mata pitched to a 5.61 ERA in 25.2 IP with just 26 K's to 27 walks and 26 hits. Not a good showing. Although Mata boasts a + FB (capable of reaching 99), a + curve and a + changeup, he's going to be shut down for the time being and try and get healthy before a re-set.
91. (New) Estevan Florial OF NYY 25.5 AAA (MLB NR | Roto NR)
Despite the up and down journey between the bigs and the minors, Estevan hasn't let that movement keep his spirits down, batting .311 / 1.044 OPS, 9 HRs, 9 SBs across 148 AAA PAs, good for an impressive 161 wRC+ (and a decent career 121 wRC+).
92. (↓) Oswald Peraza SS NYY 22.11 MLB 2022 (MLB#50/#52/NR | Roto #162/#30/#26)
Oswald got off ice cold in 2022 but got on a roll to earn a promotion to the big leagues where he hit .306 across 49 ABs. Not a bad audition. And, it was better than Oswald hit in AAA: .259, .777 OPS, 19 HRs, 33 SBs good for a wRC+ of just 106 (#663 in MiLB). But then came ST 2023 and Volpe played himself into the Yankees starting lineup over Oswald out. So what did Oswald do? He turned it on in Scranton (after another slow start), and has hit .343 / 964 OPS, 4 HRs, 5 SBs for a wRC+ of 143. And, after being injured and demoted, looks like Oswald is playing himself back to N
93. (↑) Joey Ortiz SS BALT 24.6 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/#99/#83 | Roto NR/#123/#104/#81)
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). 2023 was a bit of a step back, but a strong: .320 Avg, .895 OPS, 8 2Bs, 3 HRs, 1 SB for a wRC+ of 121 - strong enough to earn Joey a promotion to the bigs.
94. (↓) Kevin Parada C NYM 21.9 A+ 2025 (MLB #37/#36/#28 | Roto #86/#74#97)
The former college slugger (2022 11th overall pick) finds himself in an awkward position in NY with Alvarez being such a glamorized prospect. And, defensively, Parada may not be an upgrade over Alvarez, so we're not sure of NYM's plan here. While we expect 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), 2023 A+ ball hasn't been all positive, but a still above average line of: 246 Avg, .777 OPS, 129 PAs, wRC+ 111.
95. (↑) Jared Serna 2B NYY 20.11 A 2025 (MLB NR/NYY#30 | Roto NR)
How about this off the radar prospect? Well, this future Bronx Bomber comes in the form of the rather diminutive Jared Serna (5'8" 168). But don't let the stature fool you, as Serna has 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 Serna has led off with a .333 Avg /.975 OPS and just a 11.6% K rate (good for 167 wRC+, #32 among MilB players w/ 100+ PAs).
96. (↑) David Festa RHP MIN 23.2 AA 2024 (MLB NR/MN#11 | Roto #174/#295/#327)
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 5.58 ERA over 30.2 AA innings with 37 K's. The plus fastball just hasn't been enough to carry the 6'6" Festa over an average slider and change.
97. (↓) Ceddanne Rafaela OF/SS BOS 22.8 AA 2024 (MLB#96/#86 | Roto #149/#95/#102/#148)
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). But like many of our top prospects, 2023 has been more of a struggle (.261 Avg/.651 OPS, with just 1 HR in 143 PAs, and despite 20 SBs, carrying a very poor 81 wRC+).
98. (↓) Cade Cavalli RHP WAS 24.9 IL 2022 (MLB #47/#55/#78 | Roto #84/#111/#219)
A real tough start to Cade's 2022 season saw his ERA go as far North as 9.00 (on 4/24/22), leaving many wondering whether Cade was AAA (much less MLB) ready. Well, hold the Cavalli, as the ERA came down to 3.71 with a stretch of great 3 starts (during which he went 15 IP, 4 ER, 16 K's). That earned a call to the bigs (and one start that didn't go well: 14.54 ERA, 4.1 IP, 6 hits, 2 BB's but 6 K's). Cade likely has to learn to pitch and not simply throw -- since even a 100mph heater is hittable (when major league batters are sitting on it because the secondary pitches can't be thrown for strikes). Fangraphs has Cade graded as a 55FV with FOUR plus pitches including a heater that can reach 102 (but Cade averaged "just" 95.6 in MLB) But, unfortunately, TJ surgery will erase 2023 from the mix.
99. (↑) Brady House SS WAS 19.11 A 2025 (MLB #52/NR/#93 | Roto #19/#77/#86/#106)
Neither us nor MLB Pipeline know what to do with Brady (as Pipeline has gone from 52 to NR to 93 in 18 months. For us, its been outside the top 175 to inside the top 100. So let's see how we got here: After being taken 11th overall, the 6'4" Brady wowed scouts with his apparent power and all around athleticism. So, in 2022, the baseball world over-projected would be a .278 Average, .731 OPS, .097 ISO, with just 3 HRs and 8 2Bs in 176 ABs (for a wRC+ of 108, good for #590 MiLB). That was not what the fantasy/baseball world expected of Brady especially considering he was going top 10 in dynasty rookie drafts 2 years ago. So, WAS made the right decision and had Brady stay in Low A to start 2023 and that's resulted in a a major improvement over his first 118 PA's: .283 Avg / .831 OPS, 3 HRs, 4 SBs with a 12.7% BB rate & the K rate down to 21.2% for an overall 134 wRC+. Brady's also improved on the speed grade (up to 6.0 from 3.1). Look for a promotion to A+ to come soon.
100. (↑) Everson Pereira OF NYY 22.1 AA 2024 (MLB NR | Roto #142/#174/#36/#44)
A short, compact, hard swing should play at every level for the now #4 rated NYY prospect. And that was the case in 2022 as Everson hit hitting .274, 9 HRs, 19 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 .283 Avg / .860 OPS, 9 2Bs, 6 HRs, 6 SBs for an wRC+ of 131 (to help improve on a career 124 wRC+)
101. (↓) Enmanuel Valdez 2B/3B BOS 24.5 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/BOS#17 | Roto NR/#218/#299)
It would be hard to spot Enmanuel in MLB's top 30 for HOU (before the trade to BOS), but you would have found him at #174 in the 2022 MiLB ranks (wRC+ 131) behind an OPS of .918 and 28 HRs (tied for 28th) and a relatively low K rate (21.6%) for a power guy. Speaking of power, its a lot coming from a guy that's just 5'9" (but 191lbs). So in 2023, in a suprising success story, the Red Sox chose to call up Enmanuel despite his hitting just .184 in AAA (.645 OPS). And yet, Enmanuel goes on to hit .293 in Boston (.866 OPS, 3HRs/3SBs, 58 ABs). Go figure.
102. (↑) Bo Naylor C CLE 23.3 AAA 2022 (MLB#75/#64 | Roto #159/#38/#51)
Bo is a better than average hitting catcher, which put him on the fast track to MLB (where he got his first taste in October). For 2022, he hit .262 (.888) with 21 HRs and 20 SBs (23.7% K rate and a 6.3 speed grade which is obviously a huge + for a catcher). Overall, the wRC+ of 139 placed Bo in the top 100 in 2022 (at #91). With a career MiLB 112 wRC+, Bo needed to put together another strong campaign in 2023, which he has: .264 Avg / .921 OPS, 9 HRs (130 wRC+). The catcher list in CLE isn't eexactly imposing so its just literally a matter of days before Bo gets a real chance to be the Guardians' starting backstop.
103. (↓) Luis Campusano C SD 24.3 MLB 2022 (MLB #55/NR | Roto #241/NR)
Luis keeps getting chances in the bigs (2020, 2021, 2022), but just hasn't hit enough to stick. But he had another good AAA campaign in 2022 -- batting .298, .846 OPS, 14 HRs across 319 ABs. Although injuries have slowed the 2023 campaign, Luis hit .238/.656 OPS in 7 games for the Padres and has a chance to be their starting catcher moving forward.
104. (New) Nick Yorke 2B BOS 21.1 AA 2023 (MLB #51/#65/NR/BOS#5 | Roto #15/#48/#108)
Nick started 2022 strong in A+, but hit 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 and man was he ever: .269 Avg / .873 with 6 HRs, 5 SBs for an wRC+ of 140 (helped by a 16.5% walk rate).
105. (↓) Shane Sasaki OF TBR 22.10 A+ 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/#286)
How has the Hawaiian born Sasaki flown under the radar for so long (he's not even in MLB's TB top 30)? And why did TB keep him in A all year? Well, we don't know. But we do know that Shane hit .324 at Single A Charleston (while batting leadoff and playing CF) with a .907 OPS, .419 wOBA, 9 HRs and a whopping 47 SBs good for a wRC+ of 151 (#31 MiLB). So bring on 2023 and a promotion to A+, where Shane has hit .290/ .776 OPS, 2 HRs, 9 SBs in 117 PAs. Not quite the double down year we had hoped, but still an above average 114 wRC+.
106. (New) Dominic Fletcher OF AZ 25.8 MLB 2023 (MLB NR/AZ#15 | Roto NR)
What a year for the 5'9" former 6th Rounder. Not only has he lit up AAA pitching (137 wRC+/ 109 PA's) but followed that with lighting up the major league circuit (146 wRC+/ 73 PA's). But, a career 118+ tell us that a regression will come. But ride it while you can!
107. (New) Ronny Mauricio SS NYM 22.1 AAA 2023 (MLB #53/NR/#94 | Roto #195/#231/#146)
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 line at AA last year, comparatively speaking, was not great (wRC+ 104, #700 in MiLB). But, hold those bets as Ronny has had quite a AAA run in 2023 which includes: .351 Avg / .976 OPS, 22 2Bs, 7 HRs, 9 SBs for a wRC+ of 141. So what do we do? Go on the career numbers (103wRC+) or this year's campaign, assuming he's put it all together? Hard not to wide the wave.
108. (↓) Zac Veen OF COL 21.5 AA 2024 (MLB #23/#27/#32 | Roto #108/#126/#60/#47) Speed is the name of the game for Veen. After a slow start at A+ ball in Spokane, Veen picked it up in 2022 and earned a promotion to AA. But the overall line: .245 Avg, .724 OPS, 12 HRs, wRC+ of 104 (24.4% K rate) was not only not good, it was bad (#728 MiLB)...and that despite a whopping 55 SBs (13th in MiLB) In 2023, its been more of the same for Veen and the Yard Goats with Zac batting .250/.714 OPS on 1 HR but 12 SBs, resulting in a very average MiLB wRC+ of 97 (which is pretty consistent with Veen's overhyped production thus far: 115 career wRC+ over 1133 PAs.
109. (↓) Dylan Lesko SP SDP 19.4 ACL 2026 (MLB#98/#100/#84 | Roto #134/#123/#136)
Dylan possesses three plus pitches (FB, Curve, Change) but didn't pitch after being drafted. The book on Dylan is unwritten so we'll see in 2023!
110. (↓) Robert Perez Jr. 1B/OF SEA 22.11 AA 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR/#321/#348)
After two years in Single A Modesto, in 2022, the M's finally promoted Robert to A+ Everett where he thrived (batting .342, 1.060 OPS, 7 HRs, 35 games) for an wRC+ of 193 (#1 in A+). And, in 2023, the M's did one better by placing Perez in AA Arkansas where he's hit above average (.285 Avg, .800 OPS, 6 HRs, for a wRC+ of 109).
111. (↓) Jackson Merrill SS SDP 20.1 A+ 2025 (MLB#83/#19/#16 | Roto #140/#88/#20)
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 2023 has been a harsher campaign: .223 Avg, .655 OPS in 103 PA's (84 wRC+) bringing Jackson's career wRC+ down to a mediocre 111.
112. (↓) Colson Montgomery SS CHW 20.11 AA 2025 (MLB#57/#38/#29 | Roto #71/#44/#68)
We liked Colson coming out of the 2021 draft. But year 1 in ROK ball was pretty uneventful (.287 Avg, .758 OPS, 94 ABs, 0 HRs, 0 SBs). Colson turned it up a bit in year in low A where he hit .324 (.900 OPS) with 4 HRs over 170 ABs. That production led to a promotion to A+ that Colson managed with a .258 Avg, .804 OPS and 5 HRs over 132 ABS. That line though, was not deserving of a promotion to AA, but CHW did it anyway, only to see Colson hit .146 over 48 ABs (with 15 K's to 2 BB's). Overall on the year, Colson's wRC+ came in at 125 (good for #252 among MiLBers). We're still waiting on Colson for 2023 though....
113. (↓) Sam Bachman SP LAA 23.8 AA 2023 (MLB NR; LAA#5 | 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 and a 5.81 ERA (26.1 IP / 29 K's). With 3+ pitches (Fangraphs says 2), a fastball that can reach 101 (and a weak Angels rotation ahead of him, especially if Ohtani is traded), you have to think Sam has a bright future ahead. But hopefully for us its not a bullpen arm...
114. (↑) Jack Leiter RHP TEX 23.1 AA 2024 (MLB#17/#45/#79 | Roto #96/#127/#166)
Overall in 2022, Leiter was basically pounded in AA as he went 3-10 (5.54 ERA, 1.55 WHIP, 11 HRs, .246 Avg against). But hey, he did have 109 K's in 92.2 IP. So 2023 had to be better, right? Well, it has been (4.38 ERA, 1.38 WHIP across 8 starts, 37 IP w/ a whopping 54 K's). Jack has given up runs in 6 of the 8 starts, but was real good in 2 of his last three starts (11 IP 0 ER's, 15 K's) and if he can string together about 5 more of those kind of performances, he may end up getting the call to Round Rock.
115. (↓) Andres Chaparro 3B NYY 24.0 AAA 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/#246)
Andres hadn't put together a decent minors year until 2022, but in 2022, he put together what wRC+ considered to be the 11th best. Of the numbers on the year, it was power that carried Chaparro. With a .296 Avg, Andres still managed aa .296 ISO (20 HRs in just 293 PA's and nearly all of that in AA). After 6 years in the low minors, it was time NY gave Andres a shot at AAA...and guess what? they did! Finally, after all those years toiling in the lower minors, Andres was promoted to AAA Scranton for the 2023 year where (except for the HRs) he has hit for an unremarkable 100 wRC+: .242 Avg/ .827 OPS, 11 HRs, 2 SBs (176 PAs).
116. (↑) Edgar Quero C LAA 20.1 AA 2024 (MLB NR/#91 | Roto NR/#169/#203/#253)
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 i promotion Edgard to AA (skipping A+) and Edgar responded with a good .267 Avg / .785 OPS, 9 2Bs, 1 HR, 1 SB, 25 BBs over 145 PAs for a 132 wRC+. It's really as much good plate discipline as anything that has Edgar's wOBA and wRC+ so high.
117. (↓) Max Meyer RHP MIA 24.2 MLB 2022 (MLB #22/#67/#43/#54 | Roto #46/#119/#101)
In 2022, as a result of two bad AAA starts (giving up 14 earned runs over 8.1 IP), Meyer went from a sparkling 1.72 ERA, 2.97 xFIP [30th among MiLB pitchers] and 39K's in 31.1 IPs to a rather ugly 4.54 ERA. Those dismal outings were followed by elbow trouble (ulnar nerve), but Meyer returned on June 17th and was pretty good in 4 starts reducing his ERA from 4.54 to 3.69 (and xFIP to 3.57). With a FB capable of triple digits and a wipeout slider, Meyer has two ++ pitches to pair with an average changeup. But, in the majors, Meyer's fastball averaged just 94.8 mph with a lot of direct contact (16.7% barrel rate). While the average exit velocity off Meyer was high at 89.4 mph, that was the same as Gerrit Cole and Luis Severino with the metric separating the three being the barrel rate (as Cole was just at 9.5% and Severino at 6.9%). After TJ surgery in August, Meyer won't pitch again until 2024.
118. (↓) Sean Bouchard LF COL 27.0 MLB 2022 (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/NR)
Sean used a heckuva minor league breakout year to earn a call up to the majors (and didn't stop there, where he hit .297 with 3 HRS in 74 ABs). Overall, in AAA, Sean hit 20 HRs, stole 12 bases and compiled a 1.039 OPS while generating the 28th best wOBA in MiLB (.429) and 35th best wRC+ (150). Sean has good power and surprising speed. We'd be very surprised if he doesn't thrive in COL.
119. (↓) Connor Norby 2B BALT 22.11 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/Balt#8 | Roto #98/#25/#31/#34)
Connor quietly put together a darn good year in 2022: .279 Avg., .886 OPS, 29 HRS, 16 SBs with most of that production coming at AA where Connor had a .412 wOBA (tied for 32nd with Curtis Mead and James Outman (and just behind Brett Baty). Although he's not viewed as a slugger, 29 HRs will tell you otherwise. AAA Norfolk in 2023 has come with a major regression: .270 Avg, .715 OPS, 3 HRs, 3 SBs in 193 PA's.
120. (New) Tyler Fitzgerald 2B/SS SF 25.8 AAA 2023 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
Although the career 116 wRC+ doesn't jump off the page, Tyler has put together a very good campain in 2023 to earn a promotion to AAA. Tyler has had good minor league numbers (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 has worked to reduce the K's (27.1%) and increase his walks (12.4%), resulting in a .447 wOBA to go with a .324 Avg.
121. (↑) Justin Foscue 2B TEX 23.10 AAA 2024 (MLB#78/NR/TEX#6 | Roto #117/#228/#205)
Justin had a decent 2022, batting .288 with an OPS of .850 (31 2Bs and 15 HRs) but the comparative, overall line of a 116 wRC+ (#417 overall) puts the 2022 line in more meh territory. With almost no speed (2.8 grade) and low walks (9.8%), we said that Justin is going to have to hit his way into a MLB lineup (which would mean well over .300 in AAA). Maybe he heard us, because in 2023 in AAA, Justin has gotten off to a .270 Avg, .848 OS with 10 2Bs, 3 3Bs, 5 HRs and 5 Sbs increasing both the walk rate (12.8%) and the speed grade (6.4) though still a somewhat disappointing 108 wRC+
122. (↓) Gavin Cross OF KC 22.3 A+ 2024 (MLB#72/#62/#72 | Roto #164/#133/#119)
Wait, Gavin who? Selected 9th overall by the Royals in 2022, and though it was a short sample in 2022 (109 ABs), Gavin put on a clinic: .312 Avg, 1.070 OPS, 8 HRs, 4 SBs. In 2023, the promotion to A+ has't gone as well: .198 Avg/.659 OPS/ 103 wRC+ [163 PA's] despite 6 HRs and 8 SBs. A big reason for the poor year, thus far, is the 32.0% K rate.
123. (↑) Jake Eder LHP MIA 24.7 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/ MIA#5 | Roto #266/#167#152)
With a plus FB and a 70 grade slider, Jake pitched to a 1.77 ERA and 99 K's in 71.1 IP in AA Pensacola in 2021 but elbow surgery has kept him out since.
124. (↑) Mason Montgomery SP TBR 22.7 AA 2024 (MLB NR/TB#6 | Roto #322/#173/#113/#94)
A devastating changeup (despite a FB that is just a tick above average) had the Rays #5 prospect and former 6th rounder, dominating MiLB ball last year: 1.81 ERA over 16 starts in A+ (69.2 IP) with an astounding 118 K's. (41.8% K rate, #1 MiLB at the time), followed by a promotion to AA and good line of a 2.48 ERA, 53 K's in 54.1 IP. In 2023, TB chose to keep Mason in Montgomery where he has struggled a bit to a 4.64 ERA but 46 K's in 33 IP.
125. (New) Ty Madden SP DET 23.3 AA 2024 (MLB NR/DET#5 | Roto #294)
At the moment, Detroit's best MiLB pitcher is this guy. Though he sports a slightly above average fastball, Ty's best pitch is a + slider. That pitch has helped him to a 3.23 ERA over 30.2 IP with 38 K's.
126. (New) Justyn-Henry Malloy OF/3B DET 23.3 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/ET #7 | Roto #168)
Justyn got off to a blazing start in AAA this year, and though he's cooled as of late, he got on everyone's radar with a .287 Avg, .891 OPS and 7 HRs (132 wRC+) over 202 PAs. With a career 133 wRC+ and .393 wOBA, this year was no fluke. Justyn gets on base and hits for power and may have a chance for a call-up this summer.
127. (New) Tyler Black OF/INF MIL 22.10 AA 2024 (MLB NR/ MIL #5 | Roto #202)
Although the batting average is down with the AA promotion in 2023 (.235 Avg), everything else is up! .890 OPS, 23% BB rate to a 21.8% K rate, 7 HRs (career high), 24 SBs (career high) resulting in a 153 wRC+. Those 24 swipes tie Tyler for 7th in MiLB (and 2nd on that list behind Jonatan Clase in HRs).
128. (New) Dillon Dingler C DET 24.8 AA 2024 (MLB NR/DET #14 | Roto NR)
Detroit's future backstop can hit Ding it a long way: 14 in 2022 and now 8 so far in 2023 (in just 104 PA's). the K rate is a tad high at 26% (over 109 PAs) but when you have a .326 ISO and 190 wRC+, no one is going to worry!
129. (New) Tsung-Che Cheng 2B/SS PIT 21.10 A+ 2025 (MLB NR PIT#29 | Roto NR)
Like Justyn-Henry, Tsung got off to a fast start this year (.294 Avg / .966 OPS, 6 HRs, 12 SBs, 154 wRC+) bringing his career MiLB wRC+ up to 139, and making us pretty interested. Standing just 5'7", Tsung packs a punch his swing and a kick in his step. He's likely a future 2B over arm/range issues, but could be a very good one (especially if he can keep up the power numbers).
130. (New) Joe Boyle SP CIN 23.9 AA 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
We really like the 6'7" Joe Boyle and his 3.36 career ERA over 150 IP and 238 K's. But 2023 hasn't been as kind, especially as of late as his once sparking ERA has ballooned to 5.76.
131. (↓) Wilmer Flores RHP DET 22.3 AA 2023 (MLB#100/#95/NR | Roto #127/#152/#191)
There's a lot to like about Wilmer. The 6'4" righty pitched to a 2.79 ERA with 130 K's in 103.1 IP in 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, we have to recognize the 56th best xFIP in MiLB in 2022 (3.10)....but, we also have to recognize the difficulty that 2023 has been to date. Repeating AA Erie (we don't know why), in 9 starts, Wilmer has pitched to a 4.95 ERA (down from 6.15) and just 27 K's in 36.1 IP while giving up 38 hits (including 3 HRs). With opponents batting .273 and a 1.46 WHIP, Wilmer needs to hit the re-set button.
132. (New) Drew Gilbert OF HOU 22.7 AA 2024 (MLB #95 | Roto #82)
After only 40 PA's in 2022 (great at CPX ball, not so much in low A), HOU started Drew out in A+ in 2023 where he tore the cover off (.360 Avg / 1.107 OPS, 6 HRs, 4 SBs), earning a promotion to AA where over 50 PA's, Drew has hit .317 / .880 OPS. With above average speed and the hot start this year, the Stros #1 prospect (and former 1st rounder) is someone to keep an eye on.
133. (New) Connor Phillips RHP CIN 22.0 AA 2024 (MLB NR/CIN #7 | Roto #397)
Sporting a plus fastball and at least average secondary pitches, Connor has been pretty darn good this year: 3.96 ERA, 36.1 IP, 65 K's (but has been prone to the long ball and given up too many walks (about .5 per IP). Cincy has some top arms and Connor is one of those!
134. (↑) Landon Sims RHP AZ 22.5 A 2025 (MLB NR | Roto #135/#156)
Mississippi State product Landon Sims is another fireballer that also sports a heckuva slider. But, is he going to get a chance to be a starter in the minors?
135. (New) Brant Hurter LHP DET 24.8 AA 2023 (MLB NR/DET #21 | Roto NR)
Although his fastball isn't going to break any radar guns, Brant does a great job of mixing pitches (slider/change) and getting batters out: 1.99 ERA, 40.2 IP, 46 K's, 1.08 WHIP. Look for a promotion to AAA and then maybe, just maybe, a shot in DET this year.
136. (New) Mike Vasil RHP NYM 23.2 AA 2024 (MLB NR/NYM #9 | Roto NR)
Like Brant Hurter, Vasil isn't going to blow a lot of people away with a blazing FB, but, like Brant, Mike can pitch (curve, slider, change) and get outs: 3.29 ERA, 41 IP, 48 K's, 0.78 WHIP.
137. (↑) Quinn Priester RHP PIT 22.3 AAA 2023 (MLB#44/#67 | Roto #181/#217/#118/#331)
After a long delay to start the season, Quinn was able to pitch 90.1 innings in 2022 (including 84.2 at AA and AAA) with an overall line of 3.29 ERA but a surprisingly low 89 K's in 90.1 innings (along with a pretty poor xFIP of 4.04). Quinn followed that up with a 4.12 ERA thus far in INDY, 44 K's in 43.2 IP. FanGraphs has a 50 Grade for Quinn with his best pitch being a ++ curve while his FB comes in a bit flat at 92-94 (topping at 96). We're thinking of Quinn as a back of the rotation guy with a 4.50-5.50 ERA in the majors.
138. (↓) Edwin Arroyo SS CIN 19.4 A+ 2025 (MLB #52/#44 | Roto #88/#46/#71)
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. We think the Reds received another gem here (so does MLB who have him even higher, at #44 overall). However, a career 107 wRC+ tells another story as do the struggles in High A in 2023: .189 Avg / .572 OPS, 4 HRs, 4 SBs, 132 ABs.
139. (↓) Jakson Reetz C KC 27.4 AAA 2023 (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/NR)
27 is our cut-off for prospects and we're not normally having too many who are actually 27. But, ah well, give the "kid" a chance! Despite being released by MIL in 2022 (after 1st being added to the 40 man), he was named the AA Southern League's MVP. How about that? You play that good and get released? And, it wasn't just good, but real good (.281 Avg, 22 HRs, 58 RBIs in 273 PA's, 165 wRC+). Overall on the year (AA and AAA), Jakson hit .264, .934 OPS with a 141 wRC+ (#78 MiLB). Jakson's new team (KC) is loaded at catcher, but that hasn't stopped Jakson from going ut and putting up a 130 wRC+ line: .277 Avg/ .965 OPS / .309 ISO over just 65 ABs
140. (↓) Orelvis Martinez SS/3B TOR 21.6 AA 2024 (MLB #37/#70/NR | Roto #119/#255/#231)
One of the youngest players in AA, Orelvis has mashed 30 HRs (#16 MiLB), but hit just .203 (.732 OPS) while striking out 28.5% of the time for a wRC+ of just 96 (#969 MiLB). TOR would love to see Orelvis focus on reducing the K's and simply getting on base. Everyone knows the power is there, but can he hit enough to get to the majors? Well, as bad as 2022 was, 2023 is worse: .151 Avg, .704 OPS, 11 HRs but just 16 Hits in 118 PAs with 30 K's (25.4%) for an 81 wRC+.
141. (↓) Addison Barger 3B/SS TOR 23.6 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/TOR#6 | Roto NR/#112/#130/#66)
The Jays' #14 prospect flew through the minors last year (A+/AA/AAA), seemingly hitting better with each promotion. On the year, Addison hit .308, .933 OPS, 26 HRs, 91 RBIs and 9 SBs over 467 ABs for an wRC+ of 151 (improving on his career 126 wRC+) and placing 31st in MiLB. But the Barg has stopped in AAA where rough seas (.237, .662 OPS) have halted the voyage to the bigs. Addison needs to work to keep that career 26.1% K rate South of 25%, which in AAA has balloned to 31% (27x in 86 PA's)
142. (↓) Matt Gorski OF PIT 25.6 AA 2023 (MLB NR; PIT #15 | Roto #392/#320/#393/NR)
A massive disappointment. That's how we'd characterize Matt's early returns in 2023. After putting it all together in 2022, matching 2021's HR total (17) in just 146 A+ PA's (vs 401ABs in 2021) and improving in all facets of his game (including ISO .318 [#8 MiLB], OPS .956 [#30] and K rate -- 28.6%, down from 31%) for a wRC+152 [#27 MiLB], the 6'4" (former 2nd rounder) Gorski has looked more like the 2021 version than the 2022 (batting just .212/.645 OPS at AA Altoona).
143. (↓) Niko Kavadas 1B BOS 24.3 AA 2024 (MLB NR/BOS#19 | Roto NR/#96/#257)
Here we go digging into the deep ranks of prospects. But actually, we didn't have to dig too deep. This former 11th round pick was the MiLB leader in wOBA in 2022 for a long while (with a .479 mark for players with 300+ PA's). That earned Niko a couple of promotions, eventually stopping at AA. Overall on the year, Niko hit .280 with a .990 OPS and wRC+ of 170 (good for 5th best in MiLB). And that wOBA ended up at .446 (#11 in MiLB). That's pretty good, as were the 26 HRs, 86 RBIs .280 Avg across 393 PA's. But, the K rate was far too high (29.5%) but countered by walking a lot (19.8%). So what would Niko do in 2023? Turns out, more of the same: .228 Avg / .856 OPS but a 23.9% walk rate (.420 OBP) resulting in a 140 wRC+. BTW, Niko looks like that old school Boston player (think Kevin Millar), the kind of guy that you wouldn't know was an athlete if he was standing next to you at the store (but who goes out and gets it done). And if Triston Casas can't find success at the plate, BOS may give Niko a shot!
144. (↓) Moises Gomez OF STL 24.9 AAA 2023 (MLB NR; STL#13 | Roto #213/#384#255/#274)
Moises ended 2022 with an impressive wRC+ of 149 (#41 MiLB), a wRAA of 34.2 (#14 MiLB) and the 7th best isolated power metric in MiLB (.330) which was behind a minor league leading 39 round trippers (and 94 RBIs, #27 MiLB). But, 2023 hasn't been as kind (.265 Avg, .773 OPS, 6 HRs, 25.9% K rate over 162 PA's), though like Gorski, Moises has picked it up over the last 10 games (.354 Avg, 1.138 OPS) For more on Moises' backstory, check out: https://www.vivaelbirdos.com/2022/4/21/23035151/a-look-at-moises-gomez
145. (↓) Josue De Paula OF LAD 18.0 DSL 2025 (MLB NR/ NY#10 | Roto NR/#194/#87)
Josue isn'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 looks to be keeping the 6'3" in the DSL for 2023 as he turns 18 on 5/24/23.
146. (↓) Keiner Delgado SS NYY 19.4 DSL 2026 (MLB NR | Roto NR/#303/#226/#261)
Although Keiner spent 2022 in the Dominican Summer League, he dominated that circuit in a way that few do. 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. Speaking of the DSL, over the past 7 years, only 10 players posted an wRC+ of 178 or higher in the DSL 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. With no DSL play yet, we're still waiting on the 2023 version of Keiner.
147. (↓) Jose Gerardo OF MIA 17.11 DSL 2026 (MLB NR/MIA#17 | Roto NR/#302/#228/#262)
What an exciting player MIA has here, a guy that can hit for power and steal bases and is just 17! Sure, like Delgado, its just just DSL stats that we're going on (and from 2022 at that), but they were very very good ones: .284 Avg, 11 HRs, .968 OPS, 18/19 SBs (218 PA's), .455 wOBA, good for a wRC+ of 156 (#16 in MiLB).
148. (↑) Royber Salinas SP OAK 22.1 AA 2024 (MLB NR | Roto #324/NR/NR)
We are only pretty sure the 6'3" 205 lb (listed) Royber isn't "just" 205 lbs (as reported by MLB pipeline over the last 2 seasons), but we are definitely sure that he was unhittable at times in 2022 -- striking out (at one point) 40.5% of batters (then 4th in MiLB) which led to a 3.12 xFIP (then 26th best in MiLB). Royber's vice had been walks (51 in 85.1 IP), otherwise, he put together a strong year (175K's in 109 IP) and caught the A's eyes, when they asked that he be included in the trade from ATL for Sean Murphy. Relying on an above average FB (that can reach 98), Royber needs to work on the slider and curve to stick as a starter. Of course, we should pump the brakes a bit since most of the positive stats were in low A while A+ wasn't as kind (4.10 ERA). So what would Royber's breakout encore look like in AA Midlan? Not good so far. 5.68 ERA with a .246 BAA but 43 K's in 31.2 IP with Royber relying too much on the FB, and if it comes in straight, its going out hard.
149. (↑) Connor Prielipp LHP MN 22.4 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/MN #5 | Roto #237/#125/#151)
TJ surgery had put a damper on Connor's college career, but now that he's recovered, he's looking to add mph to his FB and pair that with a devasting slider....but the first 2023 Class A+ start wasn't great: 4 IP, 5 H, 3 K's, 3 ER, 6.75 ERA, and then Connor was shut down.
150. (↑) Blake Walston LHP AZ 21.5 AAA 2023 (MLB#91/NR/AZ#6 | Roto #132/#248/#365)
If you're going to throw 90-94, you'd better having devastating secondary pitches (which become your primary pitch). And, last year's 5.16 ERA at AA (1.45 WHIP) told us the ending to that story. But 2023 in AAA was a whole new chapter, with a 2.60 ERA over 9 starts/45 IP but just 32 K's. With this type of production in the hitter friendly PCL, Blake is likely to get a chance with the D'Backs in 2023 but isn't going to blow many fastballs by hitters (think Marco Gonzalez here).
151. (New) Luken Baker 1B STL 26.2 2023 (MLB NR | Roto NR )
After a disastrous 2022 (.228 / .682 OPS, .301 wOBA, 78 wRC+) Luken has been as good in 2023 as he was bad last year (.316 Avg, 1.063 OPS, .456 wOBA, 165 wRC+). The 6'4", 280 lb Luken has always had above average power, but the 14 HRs in 208 AAA PA's this year (with just a 21.6% K rate) have been impressive.
152. (New) Kahlil Watson SS MIA 20.1 A+ 2025 (MLB#51/NR | Roto #92/#196/#186#127)
As soon as we write off Kahlil Watson, guess what? He becomes relevant again! Last year in Low A, Kahlil hit an undistinguished 101 wRC+ (#805) based on a .233 Avg, .712 OPS and 35.1% K rate (the 8.2 Spd grade is the only thing that saved Kahlil from being a below average minor league player). Having fallen from a high of #51 in MLP Pipeline's post 2021 draft rank, the former 16th overall pick had low expectations coming into A+ ball in 2023. So, maybe it was easier to come out of the gate an exceed them with a .272 Avg / .839 OPS, 2 HRs, 8 SBs, 19% BB rate to a 22.9 K rate for a 147 wRC+.
153. (New) Jordan Beck OF COL 22.1 A+ 2025 (MLB NR | Roto #210)
The former 6th rounder has put together two strong years to start his professional career: .303 Avg / .987 OPS, .437 wOBA, 157 wRC+ and is a prospect to keep an eye on.
154. (↓) Nick Gonzales 2B PIT 24 AAA 2023 (MLB #30/#93/NR/PIT#5 | Roto #41/#97/#192/#232)
Nick's star has fallen. From a high of #30 in the MLB top 100 to struggline to hang on as a top 10 PIT prospect. At AA Altoona in 2022, Nick hit .263, .812 (OPS), 7 HRs, 5 SBs (259 ABs), which apparently was good enough for PIT to deem Nick ready for AAA. So there, at AAA Indy in 2023, Nick has hit to a .263 Avg / .797 OPS with 4 HRs, 1 SB for a wRC of 98 which is great, if you like average for a MiLB'er.
155. (NC) Dustin Harris 1B/3B/OF TEX 23.10 AA 2024 (MLB NR/TEX#7| Roto #39/#72/#61)
After destroying A ball in 2021, AA presented more of a challenge to Dustin (.257 Avg, .817 OPS) in 2022 but he still managed to hit 17 HRs (20 in 2021) and steal 19 bases (25 in 2021) in far less ABs (331 vs 404 in 2021); but, we also saw the strikeout rate rise significantly to 19.4%. TEX chose to return Dustin to AA Frisco in 2023 and Dustin has had an even tougher time: .217 Avg / .757 OPS, 4 HRs, 16 SBs for a 105 wRC+.
156. (NC) Loidel Chapelli 2B CHW 21.1 A+ 2025 (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR)
Loidel is fast, but can also hit with power while not striking out. Although the 183 PAs in DSL didn't qualify Loidel for our official wRC+ battle, the 181 wRC+ would have been among the best. But, that was DSL. What would Loidel do when he came Stateside? Well, the White Sox were aggressive with the Cuban (what is up with CHW and Cuban prospects??) and started him off in A+ (skipping both the ACL and Low A) and Loidel responded fairly well to the challenge: .239 Avg / .806 OPS, 5 2Bs, 2 3Bs, 4 HRs, 8 SBs for a decent 122 wRC+.
157. (↓) Kumar Rocker RHP TEX 23.2 AA 2024 (MLB NR | Roto #114/#303/#333)
From the 2021 injury/signing debacle to 2022 3rd overall pick, Kumar was ready to show NYM what they missed out on. Unlike what TEX did with Leiter, the Rangers chose to be less aggressive in Kumar's first pro competition with a placmeent at High A Hickory where Kumar pitched to a decent 3.86 ERA in 28 IP with 42 K's until...guesss what?.....the Mets were right, Kumar needs TJ surgery!
158. (↓) Luis Torres 1B LAA 19.4 DSL 2026 (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/NR)
The DSL player of the year at 1B hit .345 with 8 HRs and 8 SBs in 59 games for a wOBA of .455 and a wRC+ of 156.
159. (↓) Jose Rodriguez OF MN 17.11 DSL 2026 (MLB NR | Roto NR/#299/#208/#240)
How can we not include the MVP of the DSL? After batting .289, .966 OPS with 13 HRs, 15 2Bs, 3 3Bs and 5 SBs (over just 190 Abs), Jose has put himself on the prospect radar.
160. (↓) Cristofer Torin 2B/SS AZ 18.0 DSL 2026 (MLB NR/AZ#16 | Roto NR)
At just 17, Torin was patient at the plate (18.3% BB rate, 9.9% K rate) and can fly (21 SBs). He used those attributes to put together a .450 wOBA and 153 wRC+ in DSL ball (oh by the way, he can pitch too: maybe a little bit Masyn Winn here?)
161. (↑) Enmanuel Tejeda SS NYY 18.6 DSL 2026 (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/#292)
Enmanuel's biggest assets are his wheels (with 11 SBs in 46 DSL games, 7.3 Spd grade), but he's getting on base (.463 OBP) and showing some pop (.493 SLG) while striking out just 13.3% of ABs.
162. (↑) Moses Brito LHP LAD 20.10 DSL 2025 (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/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).
163. (↑) Blade Tidwell LHP NYM 21.11 A+ 2025 (MLB NR | Roto NR/NR/#339)
The hard throwing righty has a chance to be the next homegrown Mets ace, but first, must figure out how to navigate Class A+ hitters (6.56 ERA, 23.1 IP, 35 K's but 18 BB's/20 Hits for an unsettling 1.63 WHIP).
164. (↑) Brock Jones OF TB 22.2 A+ 2025 (MLB NR/ TB#12 | Roto NR/#233/#214)
We think Brock is going to consistently make our SPOW list with enough HRs and SBs to consistently be in the top 150 MiLB batters, but Brock has gotten off to a late start (just 6 games) in A+ Bowling Green so jury is out.
165. (↑) Carlos Duran RHP LAD 21.10 A+ 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR/#311/NR)
Here's a name you may not have heard. The 6'7" Duran can 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 won't pitch in 2023, but we'll look for him in 2024
166. (↑) Cam Collier 3B CIN 18.6 A 2025 (MLB NR/#69/#56 | Roto #78/#45/#69)
Cincy's 1st rounder (#18) overall, got off to a pretty good start in ROK ball (.370 Avg, 1.144 OPS), but what was most impressive to us was the 7 walks to 6 K's. But, 2023 hasn't been so kind as Cam is struggling in Low A to the tune of: .216 Avg / .671 OPS w/ 2 HRs, 3 SBs over 97 ABs.
167. (↓) Brandon Pfaadt SP AZ 24.7 MLB 2023 (MLB#90/#59/#33 | Roto #291/#70/#41/#22)
What an amazing year 2022 was for Brandon, or was it? He compiled a 3.83 ERA and a whopping 218 K's across 167 IP (with just 33 BBs). And all this despite the hitter friendly parks of the PCL. Despite Fangraphs high 55 FV grade (and three plus pitches), the downside is a FB that sits 91-95, a pretty high average against (.251), an ok WHIP (1.16) (#315 among MiLB pitchers), a terrible .333 BABIP (#1402 among MiLB pitchers) and a meh 3.90 xFIP (#443, 40+ IP). That brings us to 2023 where Brandon pitched to 3.91 ERA in 25.1 hitter friendly PCL AAA innings with 30 K's but 5 HRs
allowed. That was enough for AZ to give
Brandon the call, and the results were as AAA
would project: 7.65 ERA, 20.0 IP, 14 K's, 7 HRs
(though Brandon's start on May 14 vs SF was his
best: 5 IP, 1 solo HR given up). With a fastball
sitting right at league average (93.4), Brandon
has to reoly on movement and placement of that
pitch as well as his slider and change to get
swings and misses. Unfortunately though, his
good spin rates are not yielding good results.
168. (↓) Kevin Alcantara OF CHC 20.10 A+ 2024 (MLB#86/#75 | Roto #68/#125/#169)
With as long as Kevin has been around (debuting in the DSL in 2019), you'd think he'd be 25, not almost 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). But, the promotion to A+ hasn't gone as well (.225 Avg, .624 OPS, 3 HRs, 10 SBs in 138 ABs, resulting in a an exceedingly poor 72 wRC+). 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.
169. (New) Zach Kokoska OF COL 24.7 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 .336 / 1.173, 11 HRs, 10 SBs over 142 PAs for a 201 wRC+ (Matt Holliday type numbers!)
170. (New) Zach Dezenzo 2B/3B HOU 23.0 A+ 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
Like Kokoska, the 6'4" Dezenzo has gotten off to a noticeable hot start in A+ ball in 2023: .411 Avg, 1.116 OPS, 4 HRs, 6 SBs, 12.6% BB rate for a 194 wRC+. Though, like Kokoska, Dezenzo is a big old for A ball, the results put him in the conversation at #161.
171. (↓) Jace Jung 2B DET 22.7 A+ 2025 (MLB#71/#83/#73 | Roto #149/#176/#206)
The younger brother of TEX 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. While we had hoped that Jace would bounce back from a disappointing 2022, he hasn't (thus far), putting up only a midly better line in a repeat of Class A+ (.242 Avg / .785 OPS, 4 HRs, 1 SB) (though wRC+ likes that line due to the 17.1% walk rate).
172. (↓) Brennen Davis OF CHC 23.6 AAA 2024 (MLB#29/#48/#92/#81/NR | Roto#34/#53/#79/100)
Some 2022 pre-season ranks had Brennen as high as #4 (e.g. Rotowire). But, striking out 40% of the time will hurt both your real and fantasy worlds. We haven't given up on this five tool player, but he needs to work on the hole in his swing, choke up, get a smaller bat...reduce the K rate and improve that average and confidence; and then, let the power play. Brennan has undeniable top physical traits and athletic ability, but there's obviously great risk here and Brennen hasn't lived up to anyone's expectations (mostly his own). While 2023 isn't a make it or break it year, it is for a top 100 prospect rank and Brennan has sunk that with a .189 Avg, .597 OPS, 3 HRs, 122 PAs, sub 68 wRC+, but hey the K's are WAY down (16.6%). Looks like its time for a change of scenery for Brennen.
173. (New) Tristin English 1B/3B/OF AZ 26.0 AAA 2023 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
Repating AA, Tristan overwhelmed pitchers, batting .333 / 1.148 OPS, 6 HRs, 78 PA's (wRC+ 192), earning a promotion to AAA where he hasn't slowed: .351 Avg / 1.078 OPS. Overall in 2023, over 147 PAs Tristin has returned the 19th best wRC+ on the year (178, min. 100 PAs) and 11th best wOBA (.481)
174. (New) Buddy Kennedy 2B AZ 24.7 AAA 2022 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
While the career 121 wRC+ doesn't wow us, this year's 170 wRC+ does (.483 wOBA, 18.1% BB/12.2% K rate, ISO .211).
175. (New) Chayce McDermott SP BALT 24.9 AA 2023 (MLB NR | Roto NR)
While the strikeout numbers have always been good for Chayce (249 in 165 IP), the results (run suppression) haven't always been there. But this year is a different story: 2.70 ERA 40 IP 49 K's, 1.18 WHIP. In the game we watched Chayce, he dominated an Erie Sea Wolves lineup that included the hot hitting Colt Keith and Dillon Dingler (where Chayce struck out 9 over 5 IP with a live fastball).
​
Noticeable omissions (from our ranks)
(↓) Cole Waites RP SFG 24.11 AAA 2022 (MLB NR | Roto NR | DF #72)
We know, you're like Wait, who? Cole Waites was pretty dominant in 2022 crossing three levels in MiLB (A+, AA and AAA) sporting a 1.94 ERA (#43 MiLB), 2.38 xFIP (3rd best), .168 Avg against (48th best MiLB) and an astounding 44.2% K rate (2nd best in MiLB) that was founded on a 100mph heater that he can throw a lot coming in as a reliever. The Giants didn't waste a lot of time getting Cole into the bigs in 2022 and we saw him there briefly in 2023, but Cole is REALLY struggling this year in AAA (6.14 ERA 14.2 IP 11 K's, 1.98 WHIP), and we saw velo topping at 96.9 in his most recent (5/28) MiLB appearance which means not only isn't he fooling anyone, he is no longer throwing it by everyone.
(↓) Termarr Johnson 2B PIT 18.5 A 2025 (MLB#29/#22 | Roto #34/#21 | DF #90/NR)
The 4th overall pick in the 2022 draft, Termarr wowed scouts with his patience at the plate, great hit tool and surprising power (from a 5'7" frame). At 18, he held his own in low A, batting .275 with 1 HR and 4 SBs over 40 ABs, but the repeat year hasn't gone as well (.254 Avg/ .736 OPS, 1 HRs, 1 SBs and a dismal 32 K's in just 71 ABs (35.5% K rate)
(↓) Will Benson OF CIN (Traded) 24.11 AAA 2022 (MLB NR | Roto NR | DF#94/NR)
Will wasn't on our list to start the year because of all the highlight reel catches he made in center for Cleveland, but instead, because the former 1st rounder had a heck of a 2022 AAA year before the promotion to the bigs: .278 Avg, 17 HRs, 75 Runs scored, 16 SBs for an wRC+ of 153. But then came the trade to CIN and the dismal performance to start 2023 in MLB followed by a very average performance in AAA (wRC+ 100, .179 Avg, 29.1% K rate but 25.6% BB rate to save his OBA) leaves Benson barely hanging on to an honorable mention on our list.
(↓) Marco Luciano SS/3B SFG 21 AA 2024 (MLB #9/#16/#20 | Roto #36/#47/#63/#85 | DF#105/NR)
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, over the last 10 games, he's starting to put it together (.318 Avg, .989 OPS, 1 HR)... though there's still a long way to go to respectability here.
(↓) Liover Peguero SS PIT 22.5 AA 2022 (MLB#44/#64/NR/PIT#6 | Roto#51/#249/#321 | DF#111/NR)
Liover started 2022 super hot, hitting for power and stealing bases. When PIT needed help at SS due to injury, the Pirates went with Liover over Cruz, but after his short stint in the majors, Liover returned to Altoona to put up some pretty poor numbers for a final line of .259 Avg / .692 OPS, 10 HRs, 28 SBs for an wRC+ of just 88 good for #1123 in MiLB. Repeating AA in 2023, Liover hoped to improve on a dismal 2022, and he's done that, a little: .266 Avg / .749 OPS, 2 HRs, 11 SBs (for an wRC+ of 108)
(↓) Brandon Walter LHP BOS 26.8 AAA 2023 (MLB NR/BOS#7 | Roto #113/#224 | DF #116/NR)
Although overshadowed by other arms in the BOS system (Bello, Mata), the Red Sox #7 prospect put together a great 2022 season at AA with a 2.47 xFIP (2nd in MiLB) while striking out 12.19 batters per 9 innings. Then came the promotion and a rude awakening in AAA, in part in having to rely on a FB that is major league average. Those troubles in AAA continued into 2023 where Brandon sports a 5.82 ERA and 1.63 WHIP across 8 starts (38.2 IP).
(↓) Jacob Gonzalez 1B/3B PIT 24.10 A+ 2024 (MLB NR | Roto #398/NR | DF #130/NR)
Despite not being ranked in the PIT top 30 (after coming over from SFG), in 2022 Jacob hit .305 across two levels (A/A+) striking out just 13.1% of the time with an OPS of .836 and wRAA of 18.2 (#123). But, there were issues: the age (24 in A+); and low relative power (ISO of .188), especially at the position. But with an overall body of work represented by an wRC+ 131 (#168 MiLB), we had Jacob in our top 175 to start the year. Since then, in 2023, he's hit AA at a well below average .253 Avg / .671 OPS, 88 wRC+.
(↓) Jesus Rodriguez 1B/C NYY 20.8 FCL 2025 (MLB NR | Roto NR | DF #140/NR)
After being named 1st Team 1B in the FCL (.439 wOBA, .348 Avg/1.120 OPS, 12.6% K rate), Jesus has really struggled in Low A: .247 Avg / .670 OPS, wRC+ 94
(↓) Reese Olson RHP DET 23.2 AAA 2023 (MLB NR | Roto #114/#189/#263 | DF #142/NR)
Despite an xFIP of 3.08 (#52 MiLB) and K rate of 33.1% (13.64 per 9), Reese Olson flew under the radar in 2022. The 11th ranked DET prospect has an above average Slider and Changeup. But, with an average FB and because the other offerings aren't lights out, we tended to overlook the 168 K's in 119.2 IP. Then came 2023 and the promotion to AAA Toledo, a 7.11 ERA in 31.2 IP (despite 37 K's) and Reese has been blasted back into oblivion.
(↓) PJ Hilson OF SFG 22.7 A 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR | DF #152/NR)
Hilson put up big numbers in 2022, but they were almost exclusively at the ACL. And the Giants probably kept him there to work on a far too high of a K rate (30%). When they finally let him go (to low A), he hit .375 and struck out just 13.3% of the time. With blazing speed and some pop, Hilson could get on the fantasy radar in 2023, but a late start and only 47 ABs hasn't helped.
(↓) Bryant Betancourt 1B/C COL 19.3 DSL 2026 (MLB NR | Roto NR | DR #154/NR)
After 11 HRs in 175 PA's in DSL ball (.319 ISO, .355 Avg, 12.0% K rate to 15.4% BB rate), Bryant has really struggled against better competition in Low A: .236 Avg / .606 OPS, 130 ABs.
(↓) George Valera OF CLE 22.6 AAA 2024 (MLB#31/#51 | Roto #40/#54/#129 | DR #158/NR)
We don't know what it is with MLB Pipeline and George Valera but his on the field play (2022: .250 Avg, 816 OPS, 26% K rate, just a 3.7 Spd rate, and wRC+121 which was just #312 among MiLB; and 2023: .188 Avg / .614 OPS, but just 16 ABs) constantly runs counter to the projections that MLB Pipeline expects for Valera. Sorry George, but until that production meets projection, you're out of our top 175.
(↓) Jordan Groshans 3B MIA (Trade) 23.7 AAA 2022 (MLB #85/NR | Roto #42/#296 | DF #160/NR)
Although the power has never shown from the 6'3" Groshans, the hit set was there until this year, where Jordan has dipped to .266 with an wRC+ of 93 (falling into the #1000s in MiLB). Still, there was trade interest and MIA scooped him up and Jordan rewarded the Marlins with a .301 Avg over 113 AAA ABs and a major league cameo in MIA. But then came 2023 and a dismal .216 / .604 AAA line over 162 ABs.
(↓) Will Frizzell 1B WAS 24.3 A 2024 (MLB NR | Roto NR | DF #164/NR)
Will the Frill! This former 8th rounder lit up Class A (.495 wOBA, .696 SLG, .377 Avg) at age 23 which he was a bit old for, so WAS followed our advice and quickly promoted Will to AA in 2023, where Will is in danger of being demoted from: .151 Avg / .527 OPS (71 ABs).
(↓) Alex Ramirez OF NYM 20.4 A+ 2025 (MLB #96/#81 | Roto#67/#92/#110/#149 | DF#165/NR)
Although pretty young for A+ ball, Alex Ramirez held his own, batting .278 with 5 HRs and 4 SBs across 54 games. The wRC+ was pretty pedestrian in that showing (106), but the 22.0% K rate and a .372 wOBA (6 HRs and 17 SBs) in Low A gave us hope for 2023. But, unfortunately, its been more of the same this year: .271 Avg / .747 OPS, 3 HRs, 4 SBs over 140 ABs in High A (wRC+ 105).
(↓) Peyton Graham SS DET 21 A 2025 (MLB NR/DET#6 | Roto NR/#236/#289 | DF #169/NR)
We want to be high on Peyton but 2023 has been a disappointment.
Jacob Berry 3B/OF MIA 22.0 A+ 2025 (MLB#49/#61/#71| Roto #143 | 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 .184 Avg in 2023 w/ .541 OPS over 131 PAs (53 wRC+)
Drew Romo C COL 21.9 AA 2025 (MLB#63/#84/NR/COL#3 | Roto NR | DF NR)
Although he's not graded out as having good speed, Drew stole 23 bases in just 79 games in low A 2021 and followed that up with 18 SBs in 101 games in A+ ball. But with an OPS of .693 and just 5 HRs in 2022, followed by a .209 Avg/.580 OPS in 2023, unlike MLB Pipeline, we're not getting too excited here.
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Recent promotions (and exclusions): Grayson Rodriguez (#1), Hunter Brown (#2), Estuery Ruiz (#4), Ezequiel Tovar (#5), Anthony Volpe (#9), Brett Baty (#26), Josh Jung (#44), Joey Wiemer (#52), Miguel Vargas (#56), Triston Casas (#69), Alec Burleson (#98), Tanner Bibee (#100), Kyle Stowers (#103), Drey Jameson (#129), Stone Garrett (#131), Gabriel Arias (#134), Ryne Nelson (#137), Luis Medina (#143), Zach Neto (#167)
**Fangraphs wRC+ statistics used (5/6 - 5/15/23), with a Min 200 Plate Appearances or 40 IP
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