MLB Power Rankings: Breaking Down Baseball's Top 100 Prospects
MLB power rankings have been popping up across the baseball landscape in recent weeks, as pitchers and catchers have reported and position players will be arriving before the month draws to a close.
Spring training isn't just about seeing baseball's established stars get ready for the season; it's also about getting to see some of your favorite team's best young talent fighting to prove they're ready for a shot with the big club, rather than stagnating in the minors.
But with so many minor leaguers and upcoming rookies, how can you know who to follow?
Look no further than our list of baseball's top 100 prospects. These are the guys who would qualify for the Rookie of the Year award in their division—which means they've had fewer than 130 at-bats or 50 innings pitched in the major leagues.
You won't see Washington Nationals sensation Stephen Strasburg, Cleveland Indians stud catcher Carlos Santana, or several other big-name youngsters on this list because of that, but you will see some of the best talent Major League Baseball's farm system has to offer.
Some of them are close to the big leagues, but may not be top-tier talents, while others are still at least a couple of years from the bigs but have incredibly high ceilings.
Without further ado—let's get to it, shall we?
100. Josh Vitters, 3B, Chicago Cubs
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Age: 21
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 200 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double A
Scouting Report: Vitters has one of the sweetest swings you'll see and he plays a mean third base. The third overall pick in 2007, Vitters has the potential to be a star in the big leagues, with the pop in his bat projecting fairly well to the majors.
So why's he so far down the list? He's not exactly the most selective hitter in the world, and when he sees a pitch he likes, thinks he likes, or could possibly like, he swings for the fences.
He struggled to a .290 OBP in Double-A ball last year, but he's still got the potential to make a big impact in the majors in a year or two, assuming his pitch selection improves.
99. Aaron Sanchez, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays
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Age: 18
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: There were some dirty looks shot in the direction of the Blue Jays' table when they snagged the 6'4" righty with their supplemental first-round pick last season. With a fairly clean delivery and a fastball that tops out around 95 mph, Sanchez is one of the easiest arms to project in the minors.
His curveball is about average, but Sanchez needs some work on his changeup. If he can get it sorted out, he could turn out to be quite the steal for the Blue Jays.
98. Adeiny Hechevarria, SS, Toronto Blue Jays
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Age: 21
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double A
Scouting Report: With Hechevarria, it's all about the glove. The Cuban import is one of the most electric fielders you're going to find. He's got the skills to make highlight plays on a regular basis and the arm to make the throws necessary to be a big league shortstop.
However, he's far from perfect—his offense is still incredibly raw. He's not a bad hitter, but he's less advanced than his age would suggest. His bat might have been rushed to Double-A, but make no mistake, this guy's got the glove to make a mark someday in the big leagues.
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97. Jake McGee, LHP, Tampa Bay Rays
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Age: 24
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 190 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Back in 2008, McGee was one of the Rays' better pitching prospects. With a live fastball and a biting slider, he was seen as a potential strong starter—assuming he learned a changeup.
Fast forward to 2011 and you'll find a kid who battled elbow issues in 2009 and is still trying to figure out his change. His fastball hits in the 92-96 range, and his slider's as good as ever, but the change is most definitely a below-average pitch.
For the moment, McGee looks like a potentially dominant bullpen arm, as his slider and fastball are plenty good enough to make hitters swing and miss for an inning or two as a closer.
Until that change shows signs of improvement, look for him to stay in the 'pen.
96. James Jones, OF, Seattle Mariners
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Age: 22
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Single A
Scouting Report: Jones wasn't a terribly heralded prospect coming out of Long Island University, mostly because he was seen as a pitcher rather than an outfielder.
But the Mariners took a chance moving him out there, and it looks like a real steal. Over the course of last season Jones showed incredible growth as a hitter, including posting a.322 average after the All-Star break.
If Jones continues to hit like this, flashing both contact and power, we could see his smooth swing in the big leagues sooner rather than later.
95. Ruby De La Rosa, RHP, Los Angeles Dodgers
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Age: 21
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 170 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Ruby de la Rosa had a breakthrough in 2010 and was really one of the only Dodgers prospects to do so.
With a nasty fastball that peaks around 97 mph, he's capable of bringing elite-level heat and he controls it better than you'd expect for a 21-year-old—walking just 37 batters in 110 innings last year.
His changeup has good fade away from right-handed hitters and he's still working the kinks out of a breaking ball that's stuck between a slider and a curve, but lacks the bite of either one.
He could bulk up a bit, but make no mistake; he's got a truly live arm, and one you're sure to hear about in the years to come.
94. Nolan Arenado, 3B, Colorado Rockies
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Age: 19
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 205 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Arenado has had scouts raving since high school, and with good reason.
His swing is beautiful—generating good power and loft, while maintaining a flat plain and minimizing torque on his hips, lowering the chances of injury.
He's an adequate fielder who's working to get better and he's got the makeup to be driven to get to the bigs one way or another.
If he gets there, look for him to show 20-homer potential and average defense when he gets there.
93. Zach Lee, RHP, Los Angeles Dodgers
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Age: 18
Height: 6'3'
Weight: 190 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: High School
Scouting Report: Somehow, the Dodgers may have gotten the steal of the 2010 Rule 4 draft in Lee, a promising righty who told every scout who watched him that he was LSU bound.
But, after L.A. took him in the first round, they managed to get him to spurn the Tigers and focus on baseball.
Lee's a phenomenal athlete with electric stuff that could see a boost in velocity as he gets older and bulks up a bit.
He's got a decent change and once he sorts his breaking pitch out, look for Lee to start shooting up the minor league ladder—and this list.
92. Drake Britton, LHP, Boston Red Sox
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Age: 21
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 200 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Britton underwent Tommy John surgery in 2009, but his 2010 showed that he may have actually benefitted from the procedure. His velocity crept up slightly last season and he's hitting 95 on a consistent basis, while topping out at 97.
His curveball and change showed massive improvements as well, although his breaking ball is still a work in progress.
Still, as a fireballing lefty who hits his spots (mostly) and throws strikes, Drake merits a spot on this list.
91. Andrew Brackman, RHP, New York Yankees
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Age: 25
Height: 6'10"
Weight: 240 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: After blowing out his elbow in 2009, Brackman's 2010 debut was a slow build back towards the level he was at prior to the injury.
He improved each month and his control and velocity approached the levels they were before.
However, with his beanpole build and light workload last season, it remains to be seen whether he can make the transition to major-league starter.
But, even if he's a bullpen guy, expect his stuff to translate fairly well to the majors.
90. Chris Owings, SS, Arizona Diamondbacks
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Age: 19
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 170 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Owings is still very much a project in most aspects of his game, but make no mistake; he's got some tremendous upside.
He's shown great range at shortstop, although he struggles coming onto balls in front of him and has a plus arm. His pop is good for someone his size, and he's capable of driving the ball to right center.
He's got a short swing and typically takes a good path to the ball.
However, he's still two or three years from reaching his potential and has only played one full season of professional ball.
89. Jordan Walden, RHP, Los Angeles Angels Of Anaheim
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Age: 23
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 240
Hits:Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Walden battled some injury issues in 2009, and his control slipped as a result. But in 2010, the big right hander was moved to the bullpen and now the Angels have a potential top-tier closer on their hands.
Walden's always had a gun, but since moving to the 'pen, he's been on a completely different plane. His fastball's topping triple digits—with fantastic movement that makes him downright filthy to hit.
He mostly relies on the fastball, but does have a nice slider he'll throw as a put-away.
If he keeps dropping those fastball bombs, he could turn out to be quite the gem.
88. Matt Davidson, 3B, Arizona Diamondbacks
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Age: 19
Top 2010 Level: A
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Scouting Report: Davidson has one of the best bats in the Diamondbacks' system right now. He can launch the ball in batting practice and has started to show his pop in games.
His defense was a major issue prior to being drafted, but if you believe the D-Backs, he's improved to the point that he's locked in at third. He doesn't walk much, but his power forces pitchers to pitch around him.
Assuming everything goes as projected (and really, when does it ever?) Davidson could be a star someday.
87. Wilson Ramos, C, Washington Nationals
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Age: 23
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 220 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Remember Ramos? He was one of the AL's top catching prospects with the Twins prior to last season, when an injury to Joe Mauer forced him into duty.
Eventually, he was sent to the Nationals—for whom he's become one of their premier prospects—thanks largely to his bat.
He's shown good to great pop—even if his patience isn't great—and he projects as an above-average hitter in the bigs.
However, his defense behind the plate still needs work, as does his ability to call a game. But if that improves, Ramos could turn out to be quite the player for the Nats.
86. Matt Harvey, RHP, New York Mets
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Age: 21
Top 2010 Level: College
Scouting Report: The Mets grabbed one of the more perplexing prospects in college baseball when they nabbed Harvey in last year's first round.
The righty was hitting 97 on the gun and had good sink on his fastball during his junior year—while his changeup is one of the more developed of all the incoming prospects this season.
He flashes a slider and a curve, and both have looked sharp.
His mechanics aren't great, and could pose an injury risk down the road if the Mets can't fix it.
Even so, the former Tar Heel looks like a potential high-end starter, if his recent form holds.
85. Jurickson Profar, SS, Texas Rangers
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Age: 17
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Profar was one of baseball's top overall prospects when the Rangers signed him, but the general consensus was that his future was on the mound.
Instead, the Rangers have put him at shortstop and the results have been much better than anyone would have guessed.
The youngster has shown superb range and instincts at short and has a superb arm.
His hitting is still raw, but he's shown the potential to be a strong hitter with above average contact and power.
Profar's still a ways off, and his path at short might be blocked by 22-year-old phenom (and current big-league starter/breakout star) Elvis Andrus. But, even if it's not in Texas, Jurickson looks big-time.
84. Chris Carpenter, RHP, Chicago Cubs
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Age: 24
Top 2010 Level: AAA
Scouting Report: Carpenter has all the tools and accuracy to be a major league starter and not a bad one, either.
His fastball touches 99 mph out of the bullpen and sits in the mid-90s in the rotation, with a good breaking ball and a show-me change that's been improving.
So why isn't Carpenter with the big club? He cannot stay healthy. He's been banged up almost since he first entered college at Kent State—and the big right-hander has battled elbow issues throughout his career.
If he was able to hold up for a full season as a starter, you bet he'd be higher. But since his status is in doubt in the rotation, he slips into the lower 20.
83. Chris Carter, OF, Oakland Athletics
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Age: 24
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 220 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Carter is the Athletics' best power prospect, but saw his projections take a serious hit with a bad start last season. His power is still off the charts and he showed good plate patience in Triple-A.
His fielding is still an area of concern and he's probably going to be a DH in a year or so when he's ready to be called up. He got a 70 at-bat cup of coffee last season, so he could start the year in the bigs, but I wouldn't be surprised if he was down in Triple-A just to get the kinks worked out.
Still, Carter can rake and if he's able to get off to a fast start this season, expect him to get a phone call from Billy Beane sooner rather than later.
82. Brody Colvin, RHP, Philadelphia Phillies
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Age: 20
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: A
Scouting Report: Colvin has emerged as the Phillies' second-best pitching prospect in their system, but the right-hander still has a-ways to go before he's big league ready.
Right now, he's all about bringing the gas and he routinely touches 95 on the gun. His throwing motion gives his heater a downward tilt, but his changeup and breaking pitches are still maddeningly inconsistent, although they show flashes of brilliance.
If his off-speed stuff comes around, Colvin could be an excellent No. 2 starter.
81. Alex Torres, LHP, Tampa Bay Rays
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Age: 22
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 175 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Torres is looking like yet another in a long line of stellar Tampa Bay pitching prospects, and he could turn out to be quite the diamond in the rough.
He's only 5'10", but routinely hits 95 with his fastball, which has great movement. He's also got a superb changeup and his curve has great bite and rotation.
So why hasn't he come past Double-A?
He has a nasty habit of walking hitters and has never finished with fewer than one walk per two innings, which isn't good.
But, he's shown improvement and even if the command never comes around, Torres could be a valuable bullpen arm.
80. Tyler Skaggs, LHP, Arizona Diamondbacks
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Age: 19
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Skaggs was the best piece Arizona got for Dan Haren and the lefty is showing some superb control in the minors. He's already projected as a third starter, and if his fastball, changeup and breaking ball all continue to improve, he'll wind up being much better than that.
He's at least three years away, but he's definitely a bright spot in the D-Backs prospect pool.
79. Ben Revere, OF, Minnesota Twins
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Age: 22
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 175 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Revere's biggest asset is his speed and this kid can fly.
He might not have the best instincts in center field, but his athleticism and speed more than make up for it.
He hits for contact and looks like a good slap-hitter in the majors. He won't be a star by any stretch, but he could easily be a solid regular for the Twins in 2011.
78. Nick Castellanos, 3B, Detroit Tigers
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Age: 18
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Rookie ball
Scouting Report: This kid could wind up being a stud for the Tigers at third. He has yet to play a full season in the minors, but has shown incredible power for a high-schooler. His hands and wrists are strong and his hip rotation is solid as well.
He's one of the more athletic players around and his defense is strong enough that he played shortstop in college.
Obviously, he hasn't proven he can do it in the pros yet, but all indications are he's going to be a good player.
77. Tanner Scheppers, RHP, Texas Rangers
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Age: 24
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 200 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: Scheppers is another fragile fireballer on this list. He's shown great speed and movement on his heater and his breaking ball and change are coming along quite nicely.
However, he's battled injury issues—particularly in his throwing shoulder—which make him a risky prospect for Texas.
76. Jake Odorizzi, RHP, Kansas City Royals
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Age: 20
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 175 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Here's the thing with Jake and a couple of other guys in this list as well: we don't know if they've got anything other than a live fastball.
And make no mistake, in the case of Odorizzi, who was one of the key cogs in the Zack Greinke trade, it's a good fastball. He's a good athlete and his delivery is clean and largely risk-free.
But he still lacks a consistently solid breaking ball; without it, he may not be anything better than a bullpen arm.
A very good bullpen arm, mind you, but still a bullpen arm.
75. Christian Freidrich, LHP Colorado Rockies
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Age: 23
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 215 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: No one's quite sure what to make of Christian Friedrich. In the various top 100 lists I've looked at over the last couple of months, I've seen him ranked anywhere from in the top 50 to barely cracking the list at all.
So, who's right? Friedrich has the potential for four above average pitches and can throw all of them for strikes whenever he wants to.
So what's not to like? Durability.
We don't know whether he can last an entire season, because he hasn't done it yet. Until he stays healthy and productive for a full year, he stays low on the list.
74. Yasmani Grandal, C, Cincinnati Reds
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Age: 22
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 215 lbs
Hits: Switch
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Rookie
Scouting Report: The Reds continued to stockpile catching prospects when they grabbed this former Miami Hurricane in the first round last season. The switch hitter is one of the minors' best defensively behind the plate and has a serious cannon to gun down baserunners. He's skilled at calling a game, and is almost ready for the bigs defensively.
So why so low? Grandal's hitting is still a work in progress.
He's great from the left side, but his right-side hitting leaves much to be desired and he frequently struggles mightily against left-handed pitching.
Add to that the fact that the Reds have another elite catcher in Devin Mesoraco and Grandal might be trapped, which limits his rank.
73. Jaff Decker, OF, San Diego Padres
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Age: 20
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 190 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Decker is all bat—thanks to some good pop, a compact swing and fantastic plate discipline.
In the field, he's got a serious gun and is capable of rifling down baserunners from just about anywhere in the outfield.
But Jaff's defense leaves some to be desired. While his athleticism isn't bad for a guy his size, it's not exactly good when compared to some of the others on this list.
Still, his star is on the rise and he should turn out to be quite the hitter.
72. Simon Castro, RHP, San Diego Padres
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Age: 22
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: Castro isn't going to blow you away with his stuff; in fact, in terms of velocity, he sits right at average, or even a bit below the average fastball speed of most of the guys on this list.
But his accuracy is superb and he's got great movement on his breaking ball.
He doesn't walk a ton of batters and while he doesn't project much higher than a No. 3 pitcher in a rotation, he could have much better upside as a reliever.
71. Zack Cox, 3B, St. Louis Cardinals
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Age: 22
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 215 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Fall League
Scouting Report: Cox was blasted by numerous scouts who saw him in the Arizona Fall League, but don't let the naysayers fool you: this kid's got potential.
His bat is extremely developed and he flashed excellent power and contact in college.
His body isn't ideal for scouts at third, but, given reports about his work ethic at Arkansas, it shouldn't be too much of an issue.
If it's not, we could be hearing a lot more about Cox in the next few years.
70. Oswaldo Arcia, OF, Minnesota Twins
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Age: 19
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Switch
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Rookie
Scouting Report: This kid was a supernova in 2010 by tearing the Appalachian League to bits in his debut season. He's one of the most promising offensive outfielders in the minors right now, thanks to his identical switch-hit stances that are equally potent.
He's got great raw power, good speed and has shown the ability to be a big-time defensive player in the outfield.
Arcia's got a little ways to go still, but if last year was any indication, the Twins have a potential star on their hands.
69. Tony Sanchez, C, Pittsburgh Pirates
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Age: 22
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: This kid has been improving since the second he stepped on the field at Boston College.
He walked on for the Eagles; by his senior year, he was their best player. His behind-the-plate skills are solid and Sanchez' hitting is showing consistent improvement.
He's flashed good raw power; while his swing could use some improvement (he keeps his weight too far forward, which limits his pop to slapping hits), he's shown the work ethic to become quite the player.
As long as he keeps his work ethic high (and there's been nothing to indicate that he won't), Sanchez should turn out to be quite the catch for the Pirates.
68. Drew Pomeranz, LHP, Cleveland Indians
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Age: 22
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 230 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: College
Scouting Report: The hefty left-hander out of Ole Miss was quite the grab for the Indians in last year's draft. He's got the size to be a top-tier starter and while his velocity (89-95 on his fastball) isn't excellent, it's nothing to sneeze at either.
He's got a strong curveball—one of the better ones in Cleveland's minor league system—but his changeup's a work in progress.
His biggest hurdle to becoming a starter is his control and it could be tough to fix. His delivery is conducive to wildness—unless it gets fixed, his ceiling is that of a dominant reliever.
Still, hard to argue with his talent—I'm sure the Indians can deal with "only" getting an elite reliever out of Pomeranz.
67. Dellin Betances, RHP, New York Yankees
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Age: 22
Height: 6'8"
Weight: 245 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Betances has the stuff to be a top starter and the build to match. His fastball tops out at 95-98, and his changeup has been above average. He's definitely one of the Yanks' better minor league arms; with some work, he could be quite the starter.
But Betances' curve is very much a work in progress, ranging from an elite pitch with fantastic bite to an awfully easy-to-hit breaking ball.
His delivery is too short for someone of his size and his release point could be an issue.
His athleticism isn't great, and he's not a good fielder, but the potential for a top-tier starter is there.
66. Dee Gordon, SS, Los Angeles Dodgers
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Age: 22
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 150 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Gordon's got the speed and the leather to be a big-league player within the next year and he flies on the basepaths. He knocks line drives by the bunches thanks to a quick, slicing swing that slaps the ball into the gap.
So why so low rank? He has to get stronger.
His body hasn't filled out at all and until it does, he's going to be nothing better than a defensive specialist.
65. Trey McNutt, RHP, Chicago Cubs
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Age: 21
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 205 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: McNutt's been shooting up the organization's prospect rankings since the Cubs made him a 32nd round flier pick—and with good reason.
His fastball is solid, consistently hitting 91-95 and touching 97 on occasion.
His breaking ball looks sharp, and his change has good dip and deception to it.
He hits his spots fairly well and he's getting better.
McNutt's still a work in progress, and his delivery's a little rough at times. In the end, you can bet this won't be the last we hear of him, though.
64. Hank Conger, C, Los Angles Angels Of Anaheim
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Age: 22
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 220 lbs
Hits: Switch
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Conger has all the skills teams look for in their starting catchers. His hitting is solid, with a more lofty swing from the left and a more mechanically smooth swing from the right.
Behind the plate, he's still learning, but is rapidly getting better. His footwork needs improvement, but isn't awful—and he's got a plus arm.
But Conger's stamina is a major issue going forward; it remains to be seen whether he can hold up behind the plate for 120-130 games a season.
In the end, he's definitely the best catcher in the Angels' system and you can bet you'll see him in an Angels uniform next season.
63. Anthony Ranaudo, RHP, Boston Red Sox
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Age: 22
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 240 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: College
Scouting Report: The Red Sox got a real bargain when they picked this big righty out of LSU late in the first round.
The general consensus was that Ranaudo was a high first-round pick, thanks to a fastball that tops out around 95, but has enough motion to generate serious swings and misses.
His curveball has the potential to be devastating, but while his changeup is there, it's more of a show-me pitch than a consistent weapon in his arsenal.
The only reason he's not in the top 50 is his elbow. If it's fine now, he's an excellent No. 2 starter. If it's not, it could affect his development in a big way, impacting his potential.
62. Carlos Matias, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals
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Age: 19
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Prep
Scouting Report: Matias might have the best arm of any prospect in the Cardinals system—depending on how this season goes, he could be one of the best names on this list next season.
There were questions about his age, but St. Louis felt confident enough in their investigation that they signed him to a $1.5 million deal.
His fastball maxes out at 98 and he's got a curveball that has looked like an out pitch. His changeup projects well, and his command is fantastic.
He's still extremely young and has a ways to go, but right now he's looking like a star in the making.
61. Grant Green, OF, Oakland Athletics
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Age: 23
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single A
Scouting Report: Green was a highly-touted recruit out of college whose stock has lost some luster, but make no mistake; he's still got bunches of talent.
His glove is decent, but his arm is scattershot and his footwork is sub-par at best. Many industry experts see him potentially moving to third base, but he's got the athleticism to make shortstop work.
He showed great power in Single-A last year and his bat has great potential, but he doesn't walk much and isn't great on the basepaths.
Grant is still very much a work in progress, but if he can put it all together, he's still capable of being quite the player at either shortstop or third.
60. Yonder Alonso, 1B/OF, Cincinnati Reds
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Age: 23
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: The slugging first baseman made his major league debut during a brief September call-up and the results were promising. Alonso's showing the power that made him a first-round pick for the Reds, even after a three-month slump between Double-A and Triple-A last season; which can be chalked up to rust after breaking his hammate bone in 2009.
He's reliable defensively and a good hitter, although he does struggle against lefties.
Now, if only the Reds didn't have the defending NL MVP at first base, Alonso would be ready to go.
59. Travis D'Arnaud, C, Toronto Blue Jays
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Age: 22
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: D'Arnaud was one of the biggest reasons why the Blue Jays were willing to make the Roy Halladay trade prior to last season and he remains the team's best long-term catching prospect.
He's a stellar defender who has a great rapport with his pitchers—and a great arm. D'Arnaud's bat is incredibly well-developed at this stage, hitting for a good balance of contact and power.
He had some injury issues last season, but if it's a one-time thing, D'Arnaud's turning out to be quite the prospect.
58. Jason Kipnis, 2B, Cleveland Indians
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Age: 23
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 175 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Kipnis was an outfielder at Arizona State who the Indians have converted to a second baseman. So far, the results have been extremely positive.
He's shown great athleticism at the position and many scouts think he's already playable at second. He struggles a bit on the double play turn, but it's something that should come around with more time.
His bat is above-average for a second baseman and he's quick through the zone, displaying power that should translate to 10 or so home runs in the bigs—along with fantastic knowledge of the strike zone.
All in all, Kipnis is looking like he's close to big-league ready and could turn out as an All-Star soon.
57. Randall Delgado, RHP, Atlanta Braves
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Age: 20
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 200 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Delgado's a solid prospect, even if he's not at the level of some of the other young arms in the Braves' system. His fastball consistently hits 94 and can touch 97 on occasion with good movement. His changeup is phenomenal and is still easily his second-best pitch.
Delgado's curveball is very much a work in progress, as are his control and the consistency of his throwing motion.
But given the improvements he's made, his ceiling now is excellent as a second or third starter, assuming his curveball comes around.
If it doesn't? He's got a definite future in the bullpen.
56. Nick Franklin, SS, Seattle Mariners
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Age: 19
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 175 lbs
Hits: Switch
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: One of the few elite prospects in the Mariners system, Franklin showed surprising power to go along with his strong fielding skills.
He's a much better hitter from the left side than the right, but he's not a lost cause on that side, either.
He's a good enough athlete to play either second base or short and has the makeup to be a big-time player.
Assuming his power explosion wasn't a fluke, Nick could definitely turn out to be an excellent, balanced player.
55. Matt Dominguez, 3B, Florida Marlins
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Age: 21
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 205 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Dominguez is a fantastic third base prospect for the Marlins, who projects with plenty of star potential to go around.
He's one of the best fielders in recent memory and should give the Marlins—who've lacked a good defensive player at the hot corner since Mike Lowell—a serious boost.
His bat is still a work in progress, as he struggles against off-speed stuff, but when he gets a hold of a fastball, watch out. His contact is solid and his swing is smooth, but he cuts off his power in the process.
If he can sort out his plate issues, he feels like a future All-Star. If he doesn't, he'll still be an above-average regular who delivers stellar defense.
54. Hak-Ju Lee, SS, Tampa Bay Rays
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Age: 20
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 170 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Lee was one of the key pieces in the Matt Garza trade and there's a reason the Rays wanted him.
His bat flashes average power with a superb contact rate and he's one of the faster players to come out of the Cubs system.
He's got a strong arm and his defense at short is excellent, even if he's still fairly young.
Lee's still extremely raw and has less experience (and fewer miles on the tires) than your average 18-year-old American prospect.
He's a few years off, but for Rays fans, he's someone definitely worth keeping an eye on.
53. Wilmer Flores, SS, New York Mets
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Age: 19
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 175 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Flores looked like a star as an 18-year-old at the dish last season, showing great power, a good eye and a smooth swing.
His athleticism makes him a logical shortstop, but, given his size, third base, first base or right field seem like the likely destinations for him.
He's definitely quite a way off from where he will end up, but right now, things are looking very good for this sweet-swinging teen.
52. Billy Hamilton, SS, Cincinnati Reds
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Age: 20
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 160 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Hamilton is a good enough shortstop prospect that the Reds are using stop-gap veterans until he's ready to go.
He's a slick fielder with a cannon, who has the athleticism and instincts to play one of the toughest defensive positions on the field.
Offensively, he's not going to hit 20 home runs and might not even hit 10, but with his speed and ability to slap the ball to all fields, he doesn't need to.
He's not ready yet, but if his development continues the way Cincinnati expects it to, he could be an All-Star at shortstop.
51. Zach Stewart, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays
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Age:
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 175 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Stewart looks like a solid second or third starter, thanks to a fastball that touches 96 with sink and tail, a change that looked pretty darned good, a slider that looked even better and a curveball that shows good depth—even if the control is lacking.
In fact, it's that lack of control that bumps Zach down the ranks.
Because of the nature of his fastball and the natural break in all his pitches, he has a nasty habit of walking hitters.
In the end, though, the walks could wind up being part of the deal with Stewart and he should still prove to be a valuable starter, even if some think he'd be better served out of the 'pen.
50. Zach Wheeler, RHP, San Francisco Giants
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Age: 20
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Wheeler's got everything a scout looks for in a No. 1 starter: build, arm strength and mentality.
He's got a fastball that hits 96, a slider that shows good break, a change that he's still working on and a big, slow, diving curveball.
He battled injury issues in the first half of 2010 and his control is still a little iffy, as is his throwing motion.
But he looks like the latest in the Giants' line of ace-caliber pitchers coming out of their system, provided he can stay healthy.
49. Willin Rosario, C, Colorado Rockies
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Age: 21
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 190 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Rosario can hit well whenever he's on the field.
He's got big-time power and at homer-happy Coors Field, the mind boggles at what he could do.
He's also got a gun behind the plate, capable of firing down baserunners with ease. He's not a bad defensive catcher and calls a fairly solid game.
So what's the issue?
He's not on the field much.
At all.
He's battled injury issues in each of his first two professional seasons and it remains to be seen whether he can stay healthy and productive for a full season.
If he can, he's a definite top-tier catcher.
48. Jean Segura, 2B, Los Angeles Angels Of Anaheim
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Age: 20
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 155 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Segura has the potential to be the player the Angels hoped Howie Kendrick would be before injuries derailed his promising career, thanks to a bat that shows surprising pop, as well as a knack for getting the bat on the ball.
His speed on the basepaths is excellent and he's looking pretty polished offensively.
Defensively, Segura's still a work in progress, but he is capable of playing either second or short depending on where the Angels need him.
His star is definitely on the rise; if he keeps hitting like he did last year, he'll find himself a Halo sooner rather than later.
47. Arodys Vizcaino, RHP, Atlanta Braves
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Age: 20
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Vizcaino is a transplant from the Yankees system and was one of their top arms.
His velocity tops out around 96 on his fastball—with good movement—and he has an above-average curveball, with fantastic control.
His changeup is decent, but with his arm slot, he tends to give certain hitters a peek at what's coming before he delivers.
He's still nursing a torn ligament in his elbow from last season and given his slight build and fast arm motion, he's a serious injury risk.
But, in the end, the talent is too much to ignore.
46. Anthony Rizzo, 1B, San Diego Padres
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Age: 21
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 220 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Rizzo came to the Padres in the Adrian Gonzalez deal this offseason and while he's not going to make San Diego forget their superstar first baseman, he's a more-than-adequate replacement.
Rizzo showed serious power in the minors last season and has been getting stronger for the last two seasons after being diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2008.
His fielding is solid—while he's not going to win gold gloves at first right now, it is improving.
His biggest issue is plate discipline; he doesn't take a ton of pitches and while he's only 21, it's something the Padres are going to have to try and sort out soon.
Even with the free-swinging, Rizzo is looking like a kid with All-Star potential, who should bring some much-needed pop to the Padres' lineup.
45. Brett Jackson, OF, Chicago Cubs
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Age: 21
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 210
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Jackson doesn't have a ton of flaws in his game. He's a good hitter with good discipline and pop, is solid on the basepaths and has a good enough glove in the outfield to help solve the black hole in Wrigey's centerfield.
So, what's the issue?
He does everything fairly well, but isn't great at anything. He struggled a bit in double-A last season and isn't going to solve all the Cubs' problems.
Still, in the end, he's looking like a regular in the outfield, even if he's not a sure-fire All-Star.
44. J.P. Arencibia, C, Toronto Blue Jays
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Age: 25
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: The jury's still out on Arencibia as a major league prospect, even after he made it to the top of the heap last season.
He can do two things extremely well: throw out baserunners and hit the ball a mile. He doesn't take pitches, he doesn't have great mobility behind the plat, and his handling of pitchers is just above average.
But given the state of catching in the majors and the fact that he can be inserted into the Jays' lineup right now, he winds up higher in the list than more complete prospects like Travis D'Arnaud, who's at least a couple of seasons away from getting the full-time call.
43. Gary Sanchez, C, New York Yankees
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Age: 18
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: The Yankees are loaded with a trio of promising catching prospects, and Sanchez could wind up being the best and most balanced of the bunch.
He's still incredibly young at just 18, but has flashed both the defensive skill and ability to handle pitchers necessary to be a big-league catcher.
When you add his smooth, quick swing that allows him to hit for both power and average—and gives him great potential at the plate—you get a guy who could turn out to be an extremely valuable commodity for the Yankees in a few years.
He's further away than either Austin Romine or Jesus Montero, but if he continues to improve, look for Sanchez to be the Yanks' true catcher of the future.
42. Jarred Cosart, RHP, Philadelphia Phillies
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Age: 20
Height 6'3"
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Cosart is the top pitching prospect in a Phillies system that has been pretty well picked over by trades in recent months, but that doesn't mean he's not a top prospect.
He's got a fastball that tops out between 95-98, with good control over that and his slider and curve. He had elbow trouble last season, but came back and showed little ill effect from the injury.
He's still a work in progress, but if his beanpole physique fills out, he looks like a potential workhorse in a few years, capable of shouldering a 200+ inning workload year -in and year-out.
41. Jose Iglesias, SS, Boston Red Sox
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Age: 21
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 175 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Iglesias is widely viewed as the best defensive shortstop prospect in recent memory. He's technically flawless and he's got a plus arm with good—if not great—range.
He gets to a ton of ground balls with a quick release and great instincts.
His bat isn't going to wow you, but he makes good contact despite his lackluster plate patience.
Even without pop, he's going to be an above-average shortstop thanks to his special glove skills.
40. Chris Archer, RHP, Tampa Bay Rays
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Age: 22
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Archer was another key cog in the deal that sent Matt Garza to the Cubs and he's projecting as a number two starter, thanks to his fastball and slider.
His fastball tops out at 93-95 and he can hold it through seven innings. His slider's hitting in the 85-88 range and has stellar snap on it.
But Archer's changeup is still very much a work in progress—unless it comes around, he'll likely end up as a top-tier bullpen arm, coming out near the end of games.
Archer's still got plenty of time though and could prove to be yet another valuable piece in what could be a dominant Rays rotation in the next few seasons.
39. John Lamb, LHP, Kansas City Royals
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Age: 20
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: Lamb is yet another Royal who finds himself in the top half of this list and his position here is very much deserved.
He doesn't have the upside of some of Kansas City's other arms, but he's the most likely to find himself in the rotation.
His fastball tops out consistently in the 91-93 range, but he places it incredibly well.
His curveball is looking great, and he's got it pretty well under control. His change is solid, but it's easily his worst pitch and it looks shaky at times.
Still, he's pitching like a first-round pick and if his change gets close to the level of his other two pitches, he'll be a strong starter.
Even if it doesn't, Lamb could definitely be a middle-of-the rotation guy.
38. Miguel Sano, 3B, Minnesota Twins
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Age: 17
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Rookie
Scouting Report: Sano has all the upside in the world right now at the plate. He's got great contact and a smooth swing, projecting with above-average power.
His speed is lackluster, but given the kind of bat he's got, it doesn't matter.
The problem is that Sano won't stick at shortstop and probably won't stick at third base, despite a fantastic arm.
He'll probably wind up in right field or at first base; at 17, he's still incredibly young, but his stock is skyrocketing.
37. Lonnie Chisenhall, 3B, Cleveland Indians
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Age: 22
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 200 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Chisenhall had a rough go of things in 2010, battling injury issues and struggling at the plate early in the year. However, after his stint on the disabled list, the third baseman started hitting more in line with projections, flashing a good mix of contact and power.
He's got a sweet swing—one of the minor league's prettiest.
But, Chisenhall struggles against lefties—and his glove is merely average at third.
Given another year or so in the minors, you can bet we'll see his beautiful swing in the majors.
36. Derek Norris, C, Washington Nationals
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Age: 21
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Norris has a bad rep amongst scouts; because his bat is good, so they assume he can't catch.
But his glove is average and given his bat, that's perfectly acceptable. He's got some of the best plate discipline you'll see in the minors and he's got great power.
He had a rough season in 2010 after breaking his hammate bone the year prior, but now that he's fully healed, he should be back to his ball-blasting ways.
35. Jordan Lyles, RHP, Houston Astros
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Age: 20
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: Lyles is pretty much the lone bright spot in an Astros system bereft of elite prospects, but he's definitely deserving of his spot on this list.
He doesn't have the flame-thrower most of the prospects on this list have, topping out around 92 on his fastball.
He's got a sharp curve and cutter and his change is his out-pitch right now.
His control on the breaking balls isn't great, but it's coming around. He doesn't project as quite a number one at this point, but if his curve and splitter come around, he's got four plus-pitches that he can get hitters out with.
34. Mike Minor, LHP, Atlanta Braves
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Age: 22
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Minor's not here because he's going to dominate one day; after all, his fastball tops out around 92 or so, and he lacks a ton of upside, but out of everyone below him, he might be the most major league ready prospect thus far.
He's got excellent control and a plus changeup with a curveball that's starting to round into form.
He's not an ace, but as a ready-to-go starter who could wind up in the middle of the rotation in a year or two, he deserves a decent spot on the list.
33. Kyle Gibson, RHP, Minnesota Twins
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Age: 23
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: Gibson, much like Minor, isn't going to blow you away with his stuff, but much like most of the Twins' recent pitching prospects, his uncanny control and breaking stuff make him a high-probability prospect.
He hits 94 or so on the gun, but he can place it better than most prospects and brings an above-average slider and change to the table.
He's got plenty of room to put on muscle, which means he could jump another mile-an-hour or two in velocity and while he doesn't look like anything better than a number two starter, he's almost ready to go now—and should make an impact with the Twins' rotation sometime after the All-Star break.
32. Chris Sale, LHP, Chicago White Sox
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Age: 21
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 170 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Sale's high marks are almost wholly dependent on whether or not the White Sox are right about him becoming a starter.
He's got a funky arm slot that causes havoc for lefties and hits the mid 90s on the gun. With a plus changeup and a slider that flashes plus, he's capable of being a solid starter.
However, many around the industry see him as a darned good reliever—a guy who can slam the door on hitters for an inning or two with his stuff and his delivery.
Even if that's his future, Sale's going to be good, but if the Sox are right, he could turn out to be quite a valuable arm.
31. Devin Mesoraco, C, Cincinnati Reds
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Age: 22
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 220 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: Mesoraco is the other big catching prospect in the Reds farm system and the former first round pick is finally starting to live up to his potential.
Devin hadn't looked like the first-round pick he was through two-and-a-half seasons, but in 2010, things clicked. He hit .302 with 26 home runs and 75 RBI last year, bringing plenty of big pop to the plate.
Behind the plate, he's a great receiver—even if he's been battling finger issues because of the glove he uses.
Even so, his star is back on the rise and you can bet this youngster will get a look at the big club in 2011.
30. Brett Lawrie, 2B, Toronto Blue Jays
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Age: 20
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 213 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Lawrie is all about the bat and it's a good one.
He's got a fantastic swing, one of the best right-handed ones you'll find in the minors and projects with solid power, particularly for a middle infielder.
He's got great speed on the basepaths and his glove is decent, although the Jays may opt to move him to the outfield.
So what's the issue with the former top prospect in Milwaukee?
His makeup. His demeanor and frequent clashes with coaches helped speed his departure from the Brewers' system. If the Jays can get through to him and get him on track, the Shaun Marcum trade could turn out awfully good for Toronto.
29. Freddie Freeman, 1B, Atlanta Braves
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Age: 21
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 220 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Freeman's one of those guys who keeps performing above his levels despite the lack of a tool that pops out at you. He's got line-drive power and makes good, hard contact thanks to a short path to the ball despite his long arms.
He doesn't walk a ton, but gets on base enough through his good contact. He doesn't hit a ton of home runs—something that's going to have to be improved if he's going to stay at first—but his glove and arm are both above average.
In the end, Freddie's value is most enhanced by the fact that he's ready to be the Braves' first baseman tomorrow, something few other prospects can claim.
28. Jonathan Singleton, 1B/OF, Philadelphia Phillies
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Age: 19
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 215 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Singleton's one of the most promising power hitters in the low minors at this point and the big first baseman has been drawing comparisons to a certain hefty slugger currently plying his trade in the majors for the Phillies.
He's big, athletic and can hit the ball a mile, thanks to his size and a swing that ranks among the most picturesque in the minors.
He's got a great eye at the plate and he's already looking like someone who will be an above-average defender at first, if the Phillies keep him there.
His stock drops slightly if they move him into the outfield, but even there, Singleton's glove should be no-worse than average and his power is enough to make him a star.
27. Jameson Taillon, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates
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Age: 19
Height: 6'7"
Weight: 225 lbs.
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: High School
Scouting Report: Taillon was the best high-school arm in the 2010 draft, with good reason.
His fastball sits consistently between 93-97, with a slider that's already looking like an out-pitch. He's got plenty of growth still to do, but is looking polished despite being just 19.
His change needs work and his motion could use a bit of slowing down, so he's far from fully-baked.
But, if he keeps it up, the future looks awfully bright for this kid—and the Pirates, who haven't had a big-name prospect pan out in quite a while.
26. Jarrod Parker, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks
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Age: 22
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Parker saw his stock take a bit of a hit in 2010 after missing the entire season on the disabled list after Tommy John surgery.
But given the way he threw in rehab and instructional league, he's as good as ever.
His fastball tops out at around 97 with good movement and he's got four plus-level pitches. His slider still looks like an out pitch, while his changeup flashed above-average prior to his injury.
If he's truly back, you can bet Parker's going to be one of baseball's top pitching prospects heading into 2012.
25. Tyler Matzek, RHP, Colorado Rockies
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Age: 20
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Matzek was the top high school arm in the 2009 draft, but his stock took a bit of a hit after a somewhat disappointing full-season debut.
However, it was less his fault than it was a series of mixed-messages coming from coaches, who felt the need to tinker with his mechanics.
He throws three or four pitches above average, including both a two-seam and four-seam fastball.
His conditioning still needs work and he's still young, but his star should resume its luster with a full 2011 season back with his old pitching motion.
24. Manny Machado, SS, Baltimore Orioles
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Age: 18
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Machado is one of the most potential-laden prospects around, even if he ends up being too big for shortstop.
With a bat that projects for power and average as he gets stronger—with the athleticism to play shortstop and run the bases well, Manny could stick at short even if he gets bigger.
Add that to a glove that would make him an above-average player at either short or third (even if his footwork needs work), and you've got a player who looks like a future star on the left side of the infield.
23. Martin Perez, LHP, Texas Rangers
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Age: 19
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Was there a prospect who saw his stock take more of a hit in 2010 than Perez? Despite his young age, Perez found himself in double-A last season and things did not go as planned, with an ERA well over 5.00.
His velocity took a bit of a hit and his control was a bit wonky.
But, make no mistake, Perez is still quite the prospect, and projects as a staff-ace.
He's got good stuff, with good movement and his changeup and breaking ball project as plus-level pitches.
This is going to be a crucial year for him—if he can get it together, last year's struggles could be nothing more than an aberration.
22. Casey Kelly, RHP, San Diego Padres
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Age: 21
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Kelly's another promising young arm, close behind the Padres best young guns, who was another piece of the Adrian Gonzalez deal.
He battled an injury last year which dented his reputation, but his velocity, which hits between 88 and 94, is solid.
His curveball is sharp and his accuracy is superb.
Even with the injury and the fact that he has yet to survive a full season without getting hurt, he projects as a fantastic number two starter in Petco behind Mat Latos.
21. Aaron Hicks, OF, Minnesota Twins
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Age: 21
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits: Switch
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Hicks is without a doubt a top-10 prospect in terms of talent. He's a five-tool talent—who hits for power, average and has shown fantastic speed and defense in the outfield.
But, Hicks is very much a work in progress, as his plate discipline is still pretty bad and he can't hit righties, which dropped his stock.
If the Twins can address these concerns, he's going to be something truly special.
20. Jacob Turner, RHP, Detroit Tigers
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Age: 19
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Turner brings the gas in a serious way and it's the biggest reason why he's so high on this list.
He hits 97-98 with regularity and he's consistently in the 91-95 range. His curve is looking better in each start. While his change is pretty raw, it projects as a top-tier pitch.
Expect Turner's star to continue to climb after his strong finish to 2010 (in his last 35 innings, he allowed just six earned runs and striking out 33) and he could even wind up with a September call-up if things go brilliantly as he moves up the ladder.
19. Matt Moore, LHP, Tampa Bay Rays
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Age: 23
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 200 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Moore is almost a completed pro prospect at this point, with a fastball that ranges 93-95 and touches 97 on occasion.
His curveball is choice and his change is still above average, with the stamina to go deep in games.
The only thing standing between Matt and the bigs right now is his control, which could prove tricky.
If he can get that sorted out, expect to see him pitching in what is looking like a fantastic Rays rotation in the not too distant future.
18. Brandon Belt, 1B/OF, San Francisco Giants
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Age: 22
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 220 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: The Giants took a flyer on Belt during the 2009 draft, hoping they could figure out how to tap into his considerable potential. So far, the results have produced a major star in their system.
He's got serious pop in his bat, with good patience at the plate and good contact.
His fielding is solid and while his running is merely average, with his pop, it won't really matter.
Expect him to be a big impact call-up at some point this season.
17. Manny Banuelos, RHP, New York Yankees
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Age: 19
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 155 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Banuelos is a pint-sized fireballer in the Yankees system and is looking like a potential star in the making at this point.
He hits 94 with his fastball with regularity, has excellent control and his changeup is above-average as well.
His curveball is looking like a prime-time pitch with two plane break and he controls all three pitches exceptionally well.
There are still some delivery adjustments to be made here, but Banuelos is looking pretty close to being major-league ready despite still being a teenager.
16. Shelby Miller, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals
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Age: 20
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: There has been plenty of debate in the Cards' system as to whether Miller or Carlos Matias (number 62) is the better arm, but Miller is further along and is seen as the more likely candidate to hit the bigs.
His fastball hits 98 on occasion and he's got fantastic control over the pitch. His change has become a viable weapon and his curve is looking like a potential-out pitch.
His flyball-ground ball numbers have been a bit off from what the Cards would like and he's probably another two years from the big leagues, but Miller projects as a top-of-the-order starter.
15. Michael Pineda, RHP, Seattle Mariners
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Age: 22
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 180 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: Pineda was a lost cause in 2009 thanks to Tommy John surgery, but returned with a vengeance in 2010, with improved velocity.
Pineda's fastball hits the upper 90's with occasional forays into triple digits last year, with great control of the pitch.
His slider is looking better than ever and he pairs it with a split-change that can be downright devastating at times.
He struggles with consistency on his breaking pitches, but with each season, he moves closer to being 1a to Felix Hernandez's number one.
14. Wil Meyers, C, Kansas City Royals
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Age: 20
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 190 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Myers is one of several elite prospects in the Royals' system and part of what the organization hopes will be the start of a renaissance.
He absolutely decimated high-A-pitching last season and projects to be a phenomenal big-league hitter.
He's got a couple flaws in his swing, but nothing so troubling as to require serious changes.
He's currently a catcher, but the Royals are trying him in the outfield—wherever he goes—he's got the athleticism to be successful.
Wil's got a little time before he's big-league ready, but wherever he winds up, you can bet he's bound for stardom.
13. Mike Moustakas, 3B, Kansas City Royals
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Age: 22
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 230 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: Moustakas might have the most beautiful swing in all of minor league baseball—this kid can rake.
He tore apart both double-A and triple-A pitching last year—flashing superb power, even if his pitch selection was questionable at times.
His fielding is average at best and subpar at worst, but his arm is one-of-a-kind.
Even if his glove never gets better, he's going to be something special and Moustakas should be a slugging stud for some time to come.
12. Kyle Drabek, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays
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Age: 23
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 190 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Drabek is ready to roll in 2011, even if he's not quite ace material yet. His fastball is excellent and he pairs it with a fantastic curveball, improving changeup, a cut fastball that he can use against lefties and a two-seam fastball that is also solid.
His control is good enough to pitch in the majors and while he's not fully baked yet, he's good enough to be strong in the bigs while finishing off his development.
Expect Drabek to be a serious factor for the Jays in the forseeable future.
11. Desmond Jennings, OF, Tampa Bay Rays
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Age: 24
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 200 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Jennings is the reason why the Rays were willing to let Carl Crawford walk in free agency. He can flat out fly on the basepaths and hits for average with good patience.
But, his swing was a little wonky last season and needs to get back to it's 2009 state to stick in the bigs.
He's a little injury prone, but his glove and bat make him a top prospect at this point. Look for him to wreak havoc on the basepaths all season for the Rays in 2011.
10. Zach Britton, LHP, Baltimore Orioles
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Age: 23
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 195 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: Britton is a unique pitcher with the chance to be something special. He's a lefty with a filthy, power-sinking fastball, topping out around 94.
His slider is a bona fide out-pitch and his change is a solidly average pitch in his arsenal as well.
He's got the capability to force ground outs or miss bats, depending on how his stuff is that day.
Britton's command is a little wonky at times and he struggles on rare occasion against right-handers.
But, even with those flaws, Britton is an excellent number two starter—if he sorts out his control out, he could see ace level in his future.
9. Dustin Ackley, 2B, Seattle Mariners
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Age: 22
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: Ackley's got a bright future despite the Mariners' decision to move him to second base, which is quite the risk.
He's a phenomenal hitter, but is still a work in progress.
His defense continues to improve at second thanks to his phenomenal athleticism, but his technique could still use some work.
He's got a great swing and gets moderate power out of his bat—assuming things get off to a better start in 2011, expect at least a September call-up for the Ms' top prospect.
8. Julio Teheran, RHP, Atlanta Braves
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Age: 20
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 150 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Right now, Teheran is primarily a two-pitch starter, but those pitches are doozies. His fastball runs 91-95 consistently, but he's capable of hitting 97 or higher when he wants to.
His changeup is lights-out as well—to those pitches he adds a curve that flashes brilliance with regularity.
His delivery is smooth, his windup long, but fast.
If his curve comes around consistently, Julio will be an ace—but even if it doesn't, there's still a good chance that he'll turn out to be quite the rotation leader.
7. Aroldis Chapman, LHP, Cincinnati Reds
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Age: 23
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: We all know what Chapman is capable of, with his arm that clocks 105 on the gun.
We know his control can be a bit sketchy and that he could be injury prone as a starter.
So, the question becomes, will he be a starter, or will the Reds opt to keep him safe in the bullpen? If his arm holds up in the rotation, he could be like no one we've ever seen before.
If he stays in the bullpen, he'll still be as dominant as he would be as a starter, but the impact is lessened.
No matter what, look for Aroldis to continue to grow into the once in a generation arm we all hope he'll be.
6. Eric Hosmer, 1B/OF, Kansas City Royals
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Age: 21
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 215 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Double-A
Scouting Report: Hosmer had the breakout season most people figured he'd have in 2010, flashing the power, contact and patience we were all hoping he'd deliver.
The 21-year old is a stellar hitter with a smooth swing and his eye is unparalleled in the minors.
His glove and arm are special too—while he's capable of playing right field, Hosmer is locked in at first by the Royals.
Expect to be hearing a lot more about him in the next few years.
5. Jesus Montero, C, New York Yankees
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Age: 21
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 225 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Triple-A
Scouting Report: Montero is here for mostly one reason: his bat. But rest assured, it's a good one.
He hits for spectacular power and shows stellar discipline at the dish—no matter what, we know he'll hit in the majors.
The issue is his defense; it's not bad, but his size limits his mobility and while his arm is strong, his delivery to second is slow.
Despite that, the Yankees are going to be very pleased with this pop-laden, sweet-swinging young bat for the forseeable future.
4. Domonic Brown, OF, Philadelphia Phillies
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Age: 23
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 200 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Left
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Expect Brown to be in the majors to start 2011 because there's nothing left for him to do in the minors. He destroyed triple-A pitching last year and while he struggled in Philly, the only way someone with all of his skills is going to learn to hit big league pitching is to face it.
Brown's a true five-tool player capable of hitting for power, showing good discipline at the plate and flashing plus speed.
His glove is stellar and his arm is above average as well.
Now, all he's got to do is show it in the bigs.
3. Bryce Harper, C/OF, Washington Nationals
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Age: 18
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 225 lbs
Hits: Left
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Fall Instructional
Scouting Report: I'm sure you've heard of sweet-swinging phenom Bryce Harper by now.
He looked solid in the instructional league last fall, showing off the pop that made him the most-hyped first pick this side of Stephen Strasburg.
His glove is rounding into shape in the outfield, but he's got the athleticism to pull off the move.
Even if his defense isn't ready, his pitch recognition will be the deciding factor in how swiftly he moves through the farm system.
If he can get more discerning of off-speed and breaking pitches, he's got MVP potential.
If he doesn't, well, he should still be darned good.
2. Jeremy Hellickson, RHP, Tampa Bay Rays
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Age: 23
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 185 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Majors
Scouting Report: Hellickson is the best prospect in a stacked Rays system and looks like a sure-fire bet to be the second starter behind David Price in the future.
He's got four above-average pitches (fastball hits at 94, change, sharp curve and a nasty little cut-fastball), and his control is excellent.
The big knock on him is that his fastball is straight, but as long as he keeps mixing up his pitches, Hellickson should be a stellar complement to the fireballing Price.
1. Mike Trout, OF, Los Angeles Angels Of Anaheim
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Age: 19
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 210 lbs
Hits: Right
Throws: Right
Top 2010 Level: Single-A
Scouting Report: Trout has emerged as the best prospect out of the 2009 draft behind only Stephen Strasburg, and considering the Angels got him 25th, he was quite the steal.
He's unbelieveably fast and disciplined on the basepaths and he's got stellar range in centerfield.
At the plate, Trout has uncanny discipline and a swing that delivers good pop while also providing a strong average. He's got a superb work ethic and it's truly tough to find a flaw in his game.
Given his dominance in high and low-A last year, expect Trout to enjoy a meteoric rise up the Angels' farm system—he projects as a superstar by the time he hits his mid-20's.
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