All 30 MLB Teams' Prospect of the Year for 2014

The minor league season may be over, sadly, but our process of rolling out end-of-season awards is just beginning.

Having already looked at the top prospects at each level by position as well as each team’s biggest disappointment, it’s now time to highlight the stars from each organization.

Because so many players' respective performances resulted in promotions to a higher level during the season—in some cases to the major leagues—we determined that pitchers needed at least 100 innings and hitters 450 plate appearances to qualify for this list, thus eliminating any potential concerns about small sample sizes. Along those same lines, we tried to avoid players who received significant playing time in the major leagues, though exceptions were made in some cases.

With all that being said, here is each team’s Prospect of the Year for 2014.

Baltimore Orioles: C Chance Sisco

2014 Stats: 478 PA, .340/.406/.448, 34 XBH (5 HR), 63 RBI, 42 BB, 79 K (114 G)

A second-round draft pick in 2013, Chance Sisco hit the snot out of the ball in his full-season debut at Low-A Delmarva en route to a South Atlantic League-leading .340 batting average. The 19-year-old catcher overcame a .245 batting average in April to bat at least .321 in each subsequent month, highlighted by a .404 clip over 24 games in June.

In general, Sisco was white-hot during the second half of the season, batting a robust .361/.424/.456 with 18 extra-base hits and 40 RBI in 66 games. The left-handed batter did most of his work against right-handed pitching (.894 OPS, 28 XBH), though he still held his own against same-side arms (.706 OPS).

Sisco’s bat is ahead of his defense, however, which is evidenced by his 16 passed balls and 20 percent caught stealing rate this season in 74 games behind the plate. It was also the reason he appeared in 40 games as Delmarva’s designated hitter.

Honorable Mentions: RHP Hunter Harvey (3.18 ERA, 10.9 K/9), 1B Christian Walker (.846 OPS, 26 HR), RHP Zach Davies (3.35 ERA, 8.9 K/9), 3B Drew Dosch (.783 OPS, 31 XBH) and RHP Tyler Wilson (3.67 ERA, 8.5 K/9).

Boston Red Sox: 2B/OF Mookie Betts

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2014 Stats: 464 PA, .346/.431/.529, 87 R, 46 XBH (11 HR), 65 RBI, 33 SB, 61 BB, 50 K (99 G)

MLB: 164 PA, .283/.362/.434, 26 R, 13 XBH (4 HR), 12 RBI, 5 SB, 16 BB, 23 K (41 G)

After a breakout full-season debut last year across both Class A levels, Mookie Betts entered 2014 as one of the better second-base prospects in the minor leagues.

Right on cue, the 21-year-old took the Eastern League by storm to begin the season, batting .355/.443/.551 with 27 extra-base hits and 22 stolen bases in 54 games. The red-hot start at Double-A Portland led to a quick promotion to Triple-A Pawtucket, and he began splitting playing time between the keystone and outfield.

Betts was called up to the major leagues for the first time and debuted June 29, but he spent the following two months bouncing between Triple-A and The Show. However, Betts has been a fixture in Boston’s everyday lineup since mid-August, and he’s rewarded the organization for the opportunity by batting .307/.397/.475 with 20 runs, 10 extra-base hits and four stolen bases over his last 116 plate appearances (27 games).

Honorable Mentions: LHP Henry Owens 17-5, 2.94 ERA, 9.6 K/9), C Blake Swihart (.810 OPS, 46% CS%), RHP Anthony Ranaudo (14-4, 2.61 ERA), OF Manuel Margot (.818 OPS, 42 XBH, 42 SB).

New York Yankees: OF Aaron Judge

2014 Stats: 563 PA, .308/.419/.486, 45 XBH (17 HR), 78 RBI, 89 BB, 131 K (131 G)

Aaron Judge, the No. 32 overall selection in the 2013 draft, was unable to make his professional debut last summer due to a quad injury, which in turn cast doubt about how he'd fare when thrust into full-season ball the following year.

Well, the 22-year-old outfielder answered those questions by batting .333/.428/.530 with nine home runs, 15 doubles and 45 RBI in 65 games for Low-A Charleston before moving up to High-A Tampa.

Judge’s production carried over in the pitcher-friendly Florida State League, where he posted a .283/.411/.442 batting line to go along with eight home runs, nine doubles and 33 RBI in 66 games.

The 22-year-old is the size of many NBA small forwards but has a surprisingly compact swing, while his approach and pitch recognition (89 walks, 131 strikeouts in 563 plate appearances) proved to be more advanced than expected. As long as he stays healthy, Judge has the potential for 20-plus home runs with a high on-base percentage while playing a solid right field in the major leagues.

Honorable Mentions: RHP Luis Severino (2.46 ERA, 10.1 K/9), 2B/OF Robert Refsnyder (.884 OPS, 58 XBH) and OF Jake Cave (.764 OPS, 34 XBH).

Tampa Bay Rays: 2B Ryan Brett

2014 Stats: 459 PA, .303/.346/.448, 39 XBH (8 HR), 38 RBI, 27 SB, 24 BB, 74 K (107 G)

Ryan Brett fared well this season at Double-A Montgomery after getting a brief taste of the level in late 2013, as he set career highs in batting average (.303), hits (128), doubles (25), triples (six), home runs (eight), total bases (189) and games played (107). It also marked the 22-year-old right-handed hitter’s third consecutive season with at least 26 stolen bases (27, to be exact).

A career .297/.354/.435 batter with 248 runs scored and 134 steals in 372 minor league games, Brett profiles as an everyday second baseman at the highest level thanks to his contact skills and speed. He appears poised to make his debut at some point in 2015, though that also depends on how the Rays' offseason plays out.

Honorable Mentions: OF Mikie Mahtook (.820 OPS, 61 XBH), LHP Blake Snell (3.19 ERA, 9.3 K/9) and C Justin O’Conner (.782 OPS, 55% CS%).

Toronto Blue Jays: LHP Daniel Norris

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2014 Stats: 12-2, 124.2 IP, 2.53 ERA, 1.025 WHIP, .212 BAA, 3.1 BB/9, 11.8 K/9 (26 G/25 GS)

MLB Stats: 2.1 IP, 3 H, ER, 2 BB, 2 K (3 G)

We were the only ones to rank Norris as a preseason top-100 prospect out of all the major prospect outlets, and the left-hander made us proud by racing through the minor leagues and making stops at three different levels en route to an eventual September call-up.

The 21-year-old began the season at High-A Dunedin, where he pitched to a 1.22 ERA and 79-16 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 66.1 innings before moving up to Double-A New Hampshire. He scuffled a bit in the Eastern League, posting a 4.54 ERA in 35.2 innings, but continued his bat-missing ways by fanning 49 hitters during that span.

With the Toronto Blue Jays clinging to their dream of a playoff berth, Norris was promoted to Triple-A Buffalo after only eight Double-A starts, hinting at a possible late-season call-up for the talented southpaw. Well, after impressing with 3.18 ERA and 38-8 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 22.2 innings at the minor’s highest level, Norris had his contract purchased by the Blue Jays when rosters expanded.

Norris made his highly anticipated debut Sept. 5 against the Boston Red Sox, entering the game in the seventh inning to face David Ortiz with two outs and the tying run on second base. The outcome couldn’t have been better for the 21-year-old left-hander, as he struck Ortiz out looking on a sharp, 3-2 curveball to preserve the lead.

Norris has appeared in two games out of Toronto’s bullpen since then and was charged with his first run in the major leagues Monday against the Baltimore Orioles.

Honorable Mentions: RHP Kendall Graveman (14-6, 1.83 ERA), OF Dalton Pompey (.861 OPS, 40 XBH, 43 SB) and SS Franklin Barreto (.865 OPS, 33 XBH, 29 SB).

Chicago White Sox: RHP Tyler Danish

2014 Stats: 129.2 IP, 2.08 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, .237 BAA, 33 BB, 103 K (25 GS)

Selected by the Chicago White Sox in the second round of the 2013 draft, Tyler Danish pitched his way to Low-A Kannapolis last summer in his professional debut and returned there this spring to begin his first full campaign.

The 20-year-old right-hander—in his age-19 campaign—was utterly dominant in his return to the South Atlantic League, as he posted a stellar 0.71 ERA and failed to yield a home run over his first 38 innings (seven starts).

Danish got off to a shaky start at High-A Winston-Salem following a mid-May promotion, but he eventually settled in and emerged as one of the Carolina League’s top pitchers for the last two months of the season.

Though he was nearly four years younger compared to the rest of the league, that didn’t prevent him from posting a 1.49 ERA with 57 strikeouts over his final 66.1 innings (12 starts). He also threw strikes at a 64 percent clip during that span and held opposing hitters to a paltry .214/.275/.328 batting line.

Danish has the potential to be a solid No. 3 pitcher, with a low-90s sinker thrown from highly deceptive low arm slot, and he has the makings of another White Sox pitcher who climbs the organizational ladder very quickly.

Honorable Mentions: SS Tim Anderson (.809 OPS, 37 XBH), RHP Francellis Montas (1.44 ERA, 8.9 K/9) and 2B Micah Johnson (.754 OPS, 30 XBH, 22 SB).

Cleveland Indians: SS Francisco Lindor

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2014 Stats: 567 PA, .276/.338/.389, 31 XBH (11 HR), 62 RBI, 28 SB (16 CS), 49 BB, 97 K (126 G)

Francisco Lindor continued his surge toward the major leagues this season, as he once again hit for both average and modest power, demonstrated a discerning eye at the plate and stole his share of bases.

Lindor returned to Double-A Akron to begin the season and held his own as one of the Eastern League’s youngest players by batting .278/.352/.389 with 22 extra-base hits and 25 steals in 88 games.

The Cleveland Indians moved him up to Triple-A Columbus in July, suggesting that the 20-year-old defensive wizard might get his first taste of the major leagues in September. However, even after dealing Asdrubal Cabrera at the trade deadline, the organization decided not to call up Lindor for the season’s final month. Though he batted a very respectable .273 over 38 games at minor’s highest level, the switch-hitter’s on-base percentage dropped to .307 and he stole just three bases in 10 attempts.

After swiping 25 bags in 32 attempts in 2013 (78.1 percent), Lindor also took a step back on the basepaths this season with a 63.6 percent success rate (28 for 44) between the two levels.

Even if Lindor’s bat doesn’t develop as hoped, he still has the potential to enjoy a long, successful career in the major leagues based on his defensive prowess, superb makeup and ability to control the speed of the game. However, even modest offensive production could make Lindor a perennial All-Star.

Honorable Mentions: OF Tyler Naquin (.795 OPS, 21 XBH, 14 SB), SS Erik Gonzalez (.780 OPS, 34 XBH, 21 SB), RHP Mitch Brown (3.31 ERA, 8.2 K/9) and 1B Jesus Aguilar (.905 OPS, 50 XBH).

Detroit Tigers: Of Steven Moya

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2014 Stats: .276/.306/.555, 71 XBH (35 HR), 105 RBI, 16 SB, 23 BB, 161 K (133 G)

MLB: 2-for-5, R, K

Steven Moya’s nearly elite raw power has long ranked among the best in the minor leagues, but a rash of injuries—including Tommy John surgery—caused him to fall behind the developmental curve, which is why he reached Double-A Erie for the first time this year in his sixth professional campaign.

Suffice it to say that Moya helped to make up for the lost time in a big way, as he was named MVP of the Double-A Eastern League after leading the circuit in home runs (35), RBI (105), extra-base hits (71) and slugging percentage (.555)—all career highs. On top of that, his 35 bombs, 286 total bases, 71 extra-base hits and 105 RBI were single-season franchise records for Erie.

The Tigers rewarded Moya for his breakout performance with a September call-up, a decision that was made easier by the 23-year-old outfielder’s spot on the team’s 40-man roster.

After picking up his first big league hit in his first at-bat, Moya has gone 2-for-5 with one strikeout for the Tigers.

Honorable Mentions: LHP Kevin Ziomek (2.27 ERA, 11.1 K/9), RHP Austin Kubitza (10-2, 2.34 ERA, 9.6 K/9), 2B Devon Travis (.817 OPS, 37 XBH, 16 SB) and C James McCann (.770 OPS, 41 XBH).

Kansas City Royals: RHP Christian Binford

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2014 Stats: 8-7, 140.2 IP, 2.88 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, .246 BAA, 22 BB, 139 K (26 G/22 GS)

Christian Binford breezed through the Florida State League to begin the season, posting a 2.40 ERA and 92-11 strikeout-to-walk ratio over his first 82.2 frames at High-A Wilmington (14 starts). The 21-year-old right-hander’s success—which followed an impressive full-season debut in 2013—led to a midseason promotion to Double-A Northwest Arkansas.

Despite his age and relative lack of experience, the 6’6” right-hander held his own in the challenging Texas League, registering a 3.19 ERA and 38-6 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 48 innings (eight starts).

With 130-plus innings already under his belt, the Kansas City Royals opted to move up Binford to Triple-A Omaha for the final month of the season and put him in the bullpen, giving the club another potential late-inning reliever for its playoff hunt.

However, after allowing six runs on 16 hits in 10 innings with Omaha, Binford ultimately was not named as one of Kansas City’s September call-ups. That being said, his overwhelming success this season has the right-hander primed to make his big league debut in 2015, possibly during the first half.

Honorable Mentions: LHP Sean Manaea (3.11 ERA, 10.8 K/9) and OF Lane Adams (.804 OPS, 43 XBH, 38 SB).

Minnesota Twins: RHP Jose Berrios

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2014 Stats: 12-8, 140 IP, 2.76 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, .227 BAA, 38 BB, 140 K (25 GS)

Jose Berrios opened eyes last season in his full-season debut for Low-A Cedar Rapids, so it wasn’t surprising when the 20-year-old began 2014 with a dominant showing in pitcher-friendly Florida State League. Specifically, the right-hander posted a 9-3 record with a 1.96 ERA and 109-23 strikeout-to-walk ratio over his first 96.1 innings (16 starts) at High-A Fort Myers.

As expected, Berrios received a second-half promotion to Double-A New Britain, and, as expected, the youngster was challenged as one of the Eastern League’s youngest pitchers. He still managed to post a solid 3.54 ERA and 1.11 WHIP over 40.2 innings, but the right-hander's respective strikeout and walk rates (28-12 strikeout-to-walk ratio) took a hit against older hitters.

The Minnesota Twins confidently sent Berrios to Triple-A Rochester for the final month of the season—despite the fact that he dealt with shoulder discomfort in late July—but he struggled in his only start at the minor leagues' highest level, allowing six runs on seven hits and three walks in three innings.

He may be just 6’1”, 187 pounds, but the right-hander is loaded with arm strength, reportedly hitting 101 mph in his start July 20. For that same reason, there have been and will always be concerns about his long-term durability.

Honorable Mentions: RHP Alex Meyer (3.52 ERA, 10.6 K/9), RHP Trevor May (2.84 ERA, 8.6 K/9) and SS/2B Jorge Polanco (.748 OPS, 36 XBH, 17 SB).

Houston Astros: Of Teoscar Hernandez

2014 Stats: 553 PA, .292/.362/.535, 67 XBH (21 HR), 85 RBI, 33 SB, 51 BB, 153 K (119 G)

Teoscar Hernandez jumped on the prospect radar during his 2013 full-season debut, as the toolsy outfielder batted .271/.328/.435 with 47 extra-base hits and 24 stolen bases in 123 games for Low-A Quad Cities.

Assigned to High-A Lancaster for the 2014 season, Hernandez took advantage of the hitter-friendly environments of the California League to bat .294/.376/.550 with 58 extra-base hits, 75 RBI and 31 stolen bases in 96 games.

The 21-year-old moved up to Double-A Corpus Christi for the final month of the season and held his own against older pitchers in the Texas League, with a .284/.299/.474 batting line and nine extra-base hits in 23 games.

Hernandez’s power/speed combination could turn him into a center fielder who hits 15-plus home runs and steals 20-plus bases on an annual basis. However, after striking out 288 times compared to 100 walks over the last two years, his approach and pitch recognition (and therefore his hit tool) will need considerable refinement before reaching the major leagues.

Honorable Mentions: 3B Rio Ruiz (.823 OPS, 50 XBH), LHP Josh Hader (3.28 ERA, 9.9 K/9), RHP Nick Tropeano (3.03 ERA, 8.7 K/9) and 2B Tony Kemp (.859 OPS, 121 R, 41 SB).

Los Angeles Angels: 2B Alex Yarbrough

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2014 Stats: 592 PA, .285/.321/.397, 47 XBH (38 2B), 77 RBI, 6 SB, 33 BB, 124 K (136 G)

Alex Yarbrough's production this season mirrors the numbers he put up last year during his full-season debut at High-A Inland Empire, when he batted .313/.341/.459 with 53 extra-base hits and 80 RBI. This year, he did it in a less hitter-friendly environment, however, as he led the Texas League in both hits (155) and doubles (38).

A switch-hitter, the 23-year-old Yarbrough fared better from the left side of the plate this season (.750 OPS) but he still held his own as a righty (.651 OPS). He also put together a handful of notable hit streaks, including a pair of seven- and eight-gamers, as well as one 14-game hitting streak.

Yarbrough doesn’t project as an impact everyday player at the highest level, but his well-rounded skills on both sides of the ball should at least help him carve out a role as a useful utility player.

Honorable Mentions: RHP Cam Bedrosian (2.00 ERA, 16.4 K/9) and RHP Victor Alcantara (3.81 ERA, 8.4 K/9).

Oakland Athletics: 1B Matt Olson

2014 Stats: 634 PA, .262/.404/.543, 111 R, 69 XBH (37 HR), 97 RBI, 117 BB, 137 K (138 G)

Matt Olson, the No. 47 overall pick in the 2012 draft, ranked second in the Low-A Midwest League last year (in his full-season debut) with 23 home runs. This year, the 20-year-old slugger led the California League and ranked third in all of the minors with 37 home runs. He also paced the league with 111 runs scored, 278 total bases and 117 walks.

The California League is hitter-friendly, but Stockton is slightly slanted toward pitchers, which makes Olson's higher output at home (.262/.402/.591 with 21 homers) as opposed to on the road (.262/.406/.496 with 16 homers) all the more impressive.

Honorable Mentions: SS Daniel Robertson (.873 OPS, 55 XBH), 3B Renato Nunez (.853 OPS, 60 XBH, 96 RBI), RHP Seth Streich (3.16 ERA, 9.2 K/9) and OF Jaycob Brugman (.860 OPS, 52 XBH).

Seattle Mariners: 3B/1B D.J. Peterson

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2014 Stats: 547 PA, .297/.360/.552, 63 XBH (31 HR), 111 RBI, 45 BB, 116 K (123 G)

D.J. Peterson was viewed as the most advanced college hitter—arguably the top overall hitter—in the 2013 draft class due to his potential for plus hit and power tools. He showcased both last summer in his professional debut, which, unfortunately, ended prematurely after an errant pitch fractured his jaw.

With the injury behind him entering 2014, Peterson make quick work of the California League with a .997 OPS, 18 home runs and 73 RBI in his first 65 games at High-A High Desert. The 22-year-old cooled off a bit following a midseason promotion to Double-A Jackson but still batted a very respectable .261/.335/.473 with 13 home runs, eight doubles and 38 RBI in his first taste of the Southern League.

Peterson may not remain at third base long term, but his bat is good enough to support a move to first base. One thing is certain: After hitting 31 home runs and 31 doubles in his first full professional season, the 22-year-old will have everyone’s attention entering 2015.

Honorable Mentions: OF Gabby Guerrero (.814 OPS, 48 XBH, 18 SB), 3B Patrick Kivlehan (.870 OPS, 61 XBH, 103 RBI), SS Ketel Marte (.746 OPS, 42 XBH, 29 SB), C Tyler Marlette (.867 OPS, 42 XBH) and RHP Edwin Diaz (3.33 ERA, 8.6 K/9).

Texas Rangers: 3B Joey Gallo

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2014 Stats: 537 PA, .271/.394/.615, 64 XBH (42 HR), 106 RBI, 87 BB, 179 K (126 G)

Joey Gallo led all minor league hitters in 2013 with 40 home runs and then broke that mark this season with 42, falling one shy of Kris Bryant’s MiLB lead. The 20-year-old’s impressive campaign began at High-A Myrtle Beach, where his refined approach and shorter swing produced a .323/.463/.735 batting line with 21 home runs and respective strikeout and walk rates of 26.0 and 20.7 percent over 246 plate appearances (58 games).

The slugger hit another 21 dingers in 68 games following a midseason promotion to Double-A Frisco, but his approach was exploited by Texas League pitchers and resulted in a .232/.334/.524 batting line with respective strikeout and walk rates of 39.5 and 12.4 percent over 291 plate appearances.

Despite his struggles in the Texas League, Gallo took a huge step forward overall, as he tightened his approach and trimmed his strikeout rate without sacrificing any power.

Honorable Mentions: OF Nomar Mazara (.840 OPS, 43 XBH, 89 RBI), RHP Chi Chi Gonzalez (2.66 ERA, 1.18 WHIP) and OF Nick Williams (.794 OPS, 49 XBH)

Atlanta Braves: 2B Jose Peraza

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2014 Stats: 499 PA, .339/.364/.441, 79 R, 33 XBH (11 3B), 60 SB, 17 BB, 47 K (110 G)

After opening eyes last year with a .288 batting average and 64 steals in his full-season debut at Low-A Rome, Peraza, 20, jumped on the fast track to the major leagues by batting .342/.365/.454 with 97 hits and 35 stolen bases in his first 66 games at High-A Lynchburg.

At the time of his promotion to Double-A, Peraza was riding a 14-game hitting streak, during which he was batting .426/.444/.656, and he also was leading the Carolina League in batting average, stolen bases and hits (97).

Peraza continued to rake in the Southern League, despite serving as one of its younger everyday players, as he batted .335/.363/.422 with 11 extra-base hits and 25 steals in 44 contests.

Between both levels, the right-handed hitter batted .339 with 159 hits and 60 stolen bases in 110 games.

The Atlanta Braves shifted Peraza from shortstop to second base this season in deference to Andrelton Simmons, which could give the organization one of the best double play combinations in baseball for years to come.

Honorable Mentions: C Christian Bethancourt (.716 OPS, 26 XBH), RHP Cody Martin (3.52 ERA, 8.2 K/9) and OF Kyle Wren (.715 OPS, 46 SB).

Miami Marlins: C J.T. Realmuto

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2014 Stats: 423 PA, .299/.369/.461, 39 XBH (8 HR), 62 RBI, 18 SB, 41 BB, 59 K (97 G)

J.T. Realmuto always has held a spot in my heart, and not just because he batted .595 with 28 home runs in 42 games as a high school senior while also setting national records with 88 hits and 119 RBI.

The 23-year-old struggled last season at Double-A Jacksonville, but he’s improved across the board this year in his second tour of the Southern League, raising his OPS by .167 points while setting career highs in doubles (25), total bases (173), RBI (62), walks (41) and stolen bases (18).

Realmuto’s spot on the Miami Marlins' 40-man roster resulted in an earlier-than-expected call-up this season in the wake of Jarrod Saltalamacchia suffering a concussion, and he held his own by going 4-for-20 with five RBI. He recently returned to the major leagues after guiding Double-A Jackson to a Southern League title and will try to make a case for a spot on next year’s Opening Day roster.

Honorable Mentions: RHP Domingo German (2.48 ERA, 8.3 K/9), LHP Justin Nicolino (14-4, 2.85 ERA), LHP Andrew Heaney (3.28 ERA, 9.4 K/9), 2B Avery Romero (.790 OPS, 31 2B), C Austin Barnes (.870 OPS, 13 HR).

New York Mets: LHP Steven Matz

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2014 Stats: 140.2 IP, 2.24 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, .251 BAA, 2.2 BB/9, 8.4 K/9 (24 GS)

The New York Mets selected Steven Matz in the second round of the 2009 draft, but the left-hander underwent Tommy John surgery after signing and didn’t make his professional debut until 2012. Since then, however, the 23-year-old has made up for the lost time with a dominating ascent through the Mets system.

Matz began his first season at the High-A level by posting a 2.21 ERA with 62 strikeouts in 69.1 innings in the Florida State League, earning a midseason promotion to Double-A Binghamton. The southpaw was even more impressive in the Eastern League, registering a 2.27 ERA with 69 strikeouts in 71.1 innings.

Matz also pitched to 1.28 ERA with 48 strikeouts and nine walks over his final 42.1 innings (seven starts), and he struck out a season-high 11 batters over 7.1 innings Sept. 12 and helped the B-Mets capture the Eastern League crown.

The 6’2”, 200-pounder left-hander primarily relies on a low- to mid-90s fastball with heavy sink and still needs to refine his secondaries, but his performance at a pair of advanced levels this season was very encouraging and has him poised to make an impact in 2015.

Honorable Mentions: C Kevin Plawecki (.825 OPS, 35 XBH), OF Brandon Nimmo (.820 OPS, 40 XBH, 97 R), 2B Dilson Herrera (.858 OPS, 51 XBH, 23 SB), RHP Marcos Molina (1.77 ERA, 0.84 WHIP, 10.7 K/9) and SS Matt Reynolds (.859 OPS, 43 XBH, 20 SB).

Philadelphia Phillies: SS J.P. Crawford

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2014 Stats: 538 PA, .285/.375/.406, 69 R, 44 XBH (11 HR), 48 RBI, 24 SB, 65 BB, 74 K (123 G)

J.P. Crawford turned in an impressive professional debut last summer after the Philadelphia Phillies selected him with the No. 16 overall pick in the draft, reaching Low-A Lakewood as a 19-year-old. This year, Crawford emerged as one of the game’s better shortstop prospects in his first full professional campaign, finishing the year strong when many of his peers from the 2013 draft were wearing down.

Crawford began the season at Low-A Lakewood and received a well-deserved midseason promotion—around the time he appeared in the Sirius XM All-Star Futures Game—to High-A Clearwater after batting .295/.398/.405 with 19 extra-base hits and as many strikeouts as walks (37).

The left-handed hitter’s average fell by just .020 points over 63 games in the pitcher-friendly Florida State League, and he maintained his strong plate discipline and actually showed more over-the-fence power than expected with eight home runs.

Honorable Mentions: 3B Maikel Franco, OF Kelly Dugan (.818 OPS, 24 XBH) and OF Dylan Cozens (.717 OPS, 47 XBH, 23 SB).

Washington Nationals: OF Steven Souza Jr.

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2014 Stats: 419 PA, .345/.427/.577, 45 XBH (18 HR), 77 RBI, 28 SB, 52 BB, 80 K (100 G)

Steven Souza Jr. turned in a breakout performance in 2013 and followed it up with a strong showing in the Arizona Fall League, but his age (25) and lack of prospect hype (third-round draft pick in 2007) still had him flying under the radar heading into 2014.

However, that changed in a big way this season at Triple-A Syracuse, as the 6’4”, 225-pound outfielder paced the International League in batting average (.345), on-base percentage (.427) and slugging (.577), in addition to tallying 18 home runs, 25 doubles, 77 RBI and 28 stolen bases in 100 games. Souza also saw time with the Washington Nationals this season on a few separate occasions and is currently in the major leagues, but he’s yet to make an impact at the highest level, with one hit in 15 at-bats over 16 games.

Souza is the type of player who will surprise people once given consistent playing time, as his combination of size, athleticism, tools and secondary skills profile favorably in a big league outfield. However, it’s hard to see him getting an extended look in the Nats' overcrowded outfield anytime soon unless there’s a trade and/or injury.

Honorable Mentions: RHP Lucas Giolito (2.20 ERA, 10.1 K/9), OF Michael Taylor (.915 OPS, 46 XBH, 37 SB) and SS Wilmer Difo (.831 OPS, 52 XBH, 49 SB).

Chicago Cubs: 3B Kris Bryant

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2014 Stats: 594 PA, .325/.438/.661, 118 R, 78 XBH (43 HR), 110 RBI, 15 SB, 86 BB, 162 K (138 G)

Kris Bryant has done nothing but blow past all expectations since the Chicago Cubs selected him second overall in the 2013 draft. The 22-year-old third baseman continued his surge toward the major leagues this year—in his first full professional season—by putting up monster numbers between the Double- and Triple-A levels.

Specifically, the 6’5”, right-handed hitting slugger led the minor leagues (qualified hitters only) in home runs (43), slugging percentage (.661), OPS (1.098) and wOBA (.472). He also ranked second in runs (118) and fourth in RBI (110), and he batted .325 with a .438 on-base percentage in 594 plate appearances.

Though he was snubbed of a September call-up, Bryant won’t need much time in the minor leagues next season and should join the Cubs once service time is no longer an issue.

Honorable Mentions: C/OF Kyle Schwarber (1.061 OPS, 38 XBH), RHP Pierce Johnson (2.54 ERA, 8.7 K/9), RHP Corey Black (3.47 ERA, 8.6 K/9) and RHP Jen-Ho Tseng (2.40 ERA, 1.3 BB/9).

Cincinnati Reds: RHP Michael Lorenzen

2014 Stats: 4-6, 120.2 IP, 3.13 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, .253 BAA, 44 BB, 84 K (24 GS)

Michael Lorenzen's success as a starting pitcher this season was a pleasant surprise, as the right-hander had served as Cal State Fullerton's closer and center fielder prior to his selection by the Cincinnati Reds (No. 38 overall) in the 2013 draft.

The 22-year-old blew past expectations in his first full season as a starter (and at the Double-A level nonetheless), as his improved command and feel for multiple pitches allowed him to turn over Southern League lineups and work relatively deep into starts. His overall command and changeup require refinement, but the 6’3”, 195-pound right-hander proved this year that he’s more than a late-inning arm.

Plus, with his two-way background, Lorenzen was also an offensive threat for Pensacola, posting a .757 OPS with one home run (a grand slam off Archie Bradley), three doubles and seven RBI in 38 plate appearances.

Honorable Mentions: OF Jesse Winker (.917 OPS, 35 XBH) and RHP Ben Lively (3.04 ERA, 10.2 K/9).

Milwaukee Brewers: C/DH Clint Coulter

2014 Stats: 529 PA, .287/.410/.520, 42 XBH (22 HR), 89 RBI, 73 BB, 103 K (126 G)

Selected by the Milwaukee Brewers with the No. 27 overall pick in the 2012 draft, Clint Coulter, now 21, had an impressive professional debut after signing but then struggled mightily last year and battled injuries in what was supposed to be his full-season debut.

However, he made up for the lost developmental year this season by leading the Midwest League in numerous categories, including OPS (.930), home runs (tied, 22) and OBP (.410).

It will be a challenge for Coulter to remain behind the plate, as he isn’t particularly agile at 6’3”, 222 pounds and struggles with both blocking and receiving. Luckily, the right-handed hitter looks as though he’ll have the power and secondary skills to warrant a full-time move to first base when the time comes.

Honorable Mentions: SS Orlando Arcia (.738 OPS, 38 XBH, 31 SB), OF Tyrone Taylor (.715 OPS, 45 XBH, 23 SB) and RHP Taylor Williams (2.72 ERA, 9.3 K/9).

Pittsburgh Pirates: RHP Tyler Glasnow

2014 Stats: 12-5, 124.1 IP, 1.74 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, .174 BAA, 4.1 BB/9, 11.4 K/9 (23 GS)

Tyler Glasnow opened eyes last year in his full-season debut at Low-A West Virginia, as the 6’7” right-hander led the South Atlantic League in ERA (2.18), opponents' batting average (.142), strikeouts (164) and K/9 (13.26).

Well, the 21-year-old's follow-up campaign at High-A Bradenton was eerily similar, as he paced the Florida State league in ERA (1.74), WHIP (1.05) and opponents’ batting average (.174) while ranking second in strikeouts (157) and strikeouts per nine innings (11.4 K/9).

Glasnow was especially dominant during the second half of the season, with a 9-2 record, 1.65 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 109 strikeouts over 81.2 innings (14 starts). Meanwhile, he issued just 29 walks—one more than he allowed in 42.2 innings during the first half—while holding opposing hitters to a .177 average.

Honorable Mentions: OF Austin Meadows (.881 OPS, 20 XBH), OF Josh Bell (.834 OPS, 35 XBH), SS/2B Alen Hanson (.768 OPS, 44 XBH, 25 SB), RHP Nick Kingham (3.34 ERA, 6.7 K/9) and SS JaCoby Jones (.851 OPS, 47 XBH, 17 SB).

St. Louis Cardinals: LHP Rob Kaminsky

2014 Stats: 8-2, 100.2 IP, 1.88 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, .194 BAA, 31 BB, 79 K (18 GS)

Left-hander Rob Kaminsky, the No. 28 overall pick in the 2013 draft, enjoyed an impressive full-season debut at Low-A Peoria, pacing all Midwest League pitchers (with at least 100 innings) with a 1.88 ERA and holding opposing hitters to an overall batting line of .194/.266/.251 over 407 plate appearances.

The 20-year-old southpaw didn’t miss as many bats as expected this season, but his pure stuff and ability to attack hitters suggests that will come with experience. Either way, Kaminsky’s handedness, present feel for pitching and lack of physical projection could have him moving quickly toward starting next year.

Honorable Mentions: RHP Alex Reyes (3.62 ERA, 11.3 K/9), OF Rowan Wick (.990 OPS, 39 XBH), RHP Samuel Tuivailala (5 SV, 14.6 K/9) and LHP Marco Gonzalez (2.43 ERA, 8.6 K/9).

Arizona Diamondbacks: 3B Jake Lamb

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2014 Stats: 460 PA, .327/.407/.566, 54 XBH (14 HR), 79 RBI, 50 BB, 99 K (103 G)

MLB: 96 PA, .225/.271/.382, 10 R, 7 XBH (3 HR), 10 RBI, 6 BB, 31 K (27 G)

Jake Lamb, a sixth-round draft pick in 2012 out of the University of Washington, battled injuries last year and was limited to only 64 games at High-A Visalia. But he still turned in a solid full-season debut, with a .303/.424/.558 batting line, 20 doubles and 13 home runs in 283 plate appearances.

The 23-year-old third baseman didn’t disappoint as one of our top breakout prospects entering the season, as he destroyed Southern League pitching to the tune of a .318/.399/.551 batting line, 14 home runs, 35 doubles and 79 RBI over 103 games at Double-A Mobile.

Specifically, an adjustment to Lamb’s swing this spring allowed him to create better leverage through the ball and, in turn, tap into his above-average raw power more consistently. He’d been a doubles machine throughout his career, but Lamb began clearing more fences and realizing his power potential.

He was rewarded with a promotion to Triple-A Reno in early August, but he quickly found himself starting for the Arizona Diamondbacks after going 9-for-18 with five extra-base hits over five games at the minor’s highest level.

Lamb has mostly scuffled during his time in Arizona, batting just .225/.271/.382 with three home runs, three doubles, 10 RBI and 31 strikeouts in 27 games. However, the left-handed hitter is on pace for a strong finish to his first taste of The Show, with a .348 average and four extra-base hits in his past 23 plate appearances (seven games).

Honorable Mentions: RHP Braden Shipley (3.86 ERA, 9.1 K/9), RHP Aaron Blair (3.56 ERA, 10.0 K/9), 3B Brandon Drury (.872 OPS, 66 XBH, 95 RBI), SS Andrew Velazquez (.796 OPS, 32 XBH, 50 SB) and OF Justin Williams (.870 OPS, 21 XBH).

Colorado Rockies: OF Raimel Tapia

2014 Stats: 539 PA, .326/.382/.453, 42 XBH (9 HR), 72 RBI, 33 SB, 35 BB, 90 K (122 G)

Outfielder Raimel Tapia was another one of our top breakout prospects for 2014 who ultimately blew past all reasonable expectations.

Tapia, 20, showcased an assortment of loud tools and advanced secondary skills this season at Low-A Asheville, as he finished third in the South Atlantic League in batting average (.326) and hits (157) and fourth in on-base percentage (.382) and stolen bases (33).

Asheville’s home field is a notoriously hitter-friendly park, with a ridiculously short right field porch that caters to left-handed hitters such as Tapia. Therefore, it’s not surprising that he did most of his damage at home this season, with a robust .350/.391/.534 batting line, all nine home runs and 16 doubles in 60 games. That being said, he still held his own on the road with a .304/.374/.377 batting line and 14 doubles, but it obviously pales it comparison to the power he showed in Asheville.

Tapia’s still raw in his approach, but he has the bat-to-ball skills and bat speed to contend for a batting title in his prime and could be in the majors by mid-2016.

Honorable Mentions: 3B Ryan McMahon (.860 OPS, 67 XBH, 102 RBI), OF David Dahl (.827 OPS, 63 XBH, 21 SB), RHP Jon Gray (3.91 ERA, 8.2 K/9), LHP Tyler Anderson (1.98 ERA, 8.1 K/9) and RHP Antonio Senzatela (15-2, 3.11 ERA).

Los Angeles Dodgers: SS Corey Seager

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2014 Stats: 526 PA, .349/.402/.602, 89 R, 75 XBH (20 HR), 97 RBI, 40 BB, 115 K (118 G)

Corey Seager struggled at High-A Rancho Cucamonga during the final month of the 2013 regular season, batting just .160 with 31 strikeouts in 27 games following a promotion from Low-A Great Lakes.

However, that wasn’t the case in Seager’s second tour of the California League, as the 20-year-old mastered the level with a robust .352/.411/.633 batting line, 34 doubles, 18 home runs and 70 RBI in 80 games.

The hitter-friendly parks of the Cal tend to inflate hitters’ numbers, so it was great to see Seager continue his torrid production after moving up to Double-A Chattanooga. In his first taste of the Southern League, the 6’4”, 215-pound shortstop batted .345/.381/.534 with two home runs, 16 doubles and 27 RBI in 37 contests.

Overall, Seager amassed 75 extra-base hits and led all minor leaguers with 50 doubles. On top of that, he actually fared equally well against same-side pitchers as he did righties this season, posting a 1.065 OPS and 24 extra-base hits in 126 plate appearances against southpaws compared to a .984 OPS with 51 extra-base hits in 400 plate appearances.

Regardless of whether he sticks at shortstop or moves to third base, Seager’s bat will have him hitting in the middle of a big league lineup sooner rather than later. And that fact that his production translated at the Double-A level, outside the hitter-friendly California League, during the second half only further confirmed his status as a top-tier prospect.

Honorable Mentions: LHP Julio Urias (2.36 ERA, 11.2 K/9), OF Joc Pederson (1.017 OPS, 54 XBH, 30 SB) and OF Scott Schebler (.921 OPS, 65 XBH, 73 RBI).

San Diego Padres: OF Rymer Liriano

Lenny Ignelzi/Associated Press

2014 Stats: 486 PA, .291/.362/.473, 48 XBH (14 HR), 66 RBI, 20 SB, 43 BB, 116 K (115 G)

MLB Stats: 102 PA, .228/.294/.283, 13 R, 3 XBH (HR), 5 RBI, 4 SB, 7 BB, 28 K (31 G)

Rymer Liriano appeared to be on the fast track to the major leagues headed into the 2013 season, but he suffered an elbow injury during the spring that ultimately required season-ending (Tommy John) surgery.

Fully healthy for 2014, Liriano has quickly reminded everyone why he’s been one of the San Diego Padres’ more highly touted prospects for the last several years. The outfielder was assigned to Double-A San Antonio to begin his season—the level at which he left off prior to the elbow injury—where be batted .264/.335/.442 with 20 doubles and 14 home runs over 99 games.

Facing various injuries and dealing with a lack of production at the highest level, the Padres promoted Liriano to Triple-A El Paso in late July, and the 23-year-old responded to the challenge by batting .452 (28-for-62) with 16 extra-base hits and 13 RBI in 16 games.

Liriano’s outstanding showing in the Pacific Coast League and spot on the team’s 40-man roster prompted the Padres to call him up Aug. 11. He made his presence felt at the highest level, with a booming home run in his third career game.

He’s mostly struggled in his first taste of the big leagues this season, but Liriano appears to be turning the corner as of late, with five hits in his last 10 at-bats spanning three games.

Honorable Mentions: SS Trea Turner (.854 OPS, 23 XBH, 23 SB), OF Hunter Renfroe (.812 OPS, 57 XBH, 75 RBI), RHP Joe Ross (3.92 ERA, 7.8 K/9) and RHP Tayron Guerrero (1.45 ERA, 10.2 K/9).

San Francisco Giants: LHP Ty Blach

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2014 Stats: 8-8, 141 IP, 3.13 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, .261 BAA, 39 BB, 91 K (25 GS)

A fifth round draft pick in 2012, Ty Blach got everyone’s attention last year in his professional debut by leading the hitter-friendly California League in ERA (2.90) and walks per nine innings (1.2 BB/9).

Moved up to Double-A Richmond for 2014, the 23-year-old left-hander continued his under-the-radar climb to the major leagues by posting a 3.13 ERA over 141 innings (25 starts). Blach pitched especially well over his final five starts, with a 1.10 ERA and 25 strikeouts in 32.2 innings.

The southpaw lacks a dominant pitch, but his fastball, slider and change each project to be average or better at maturity and should play up thanks to his plus command.

Honorable Mentions: RHP Clayton Blackburn (3.31 ERA, 8.6 K/9), LHP Steven Okert (24 SV, 12.1 K/9), RHP Luis Ysla (2.45 ERA, 8.5 K/9), SS/2B Matt Duffy (.842 OPS, 31 XBH, 20 SB) and SS/2B Christian Arroyo (.734 OPS, 26 XBH, 62 RBI).

*All stats courtesy of MiLB.com, Baseball-Reference or FanGraphs, unless otherwise noted.