Prairie Dogs' Kevin Gelinas Rated No. 1 Independent Prospect by Baseball America

The North American League has gone through some drastic changes this year.

Since last year, it has seen a drastic 40 percent drop in attendance, and its reigning champion, the Edmonton Capitals, did not even return for the 2012 season. 

On a positive note, pitcher Kevin Gelinas of the NAL is the No. 1-rated player on Baseball America's list of Top 10 Independent League prospects under the age of 25.

Gelinas stands 6’5" and weighs 250 pounds, throws in the mid-90s and is left-handed. He was drafted in the 45^th round of the 2009 amateur draft out of Central Arizona College and also in the 44^th round of the 2010 draft by the New York Mets out of the University of Southern California, Santa Barbara. 

After completing his senior year, this former Gaucho joined the Abilene Prairie Dogs and put up some very good numbers. 

He was limited mostly one inning per appearance. In 22 games, he pitched 23 innings, struck out 29, walked five, recorded two saves and compiled a 3.13 ERA. 

According to the San Angelo Colts, his velocity caught the eye of the New York Yankees, who subsequently purchased his contract. Unfortunately, an injury shortened his stay in the Yankees system. Shortly thereafter, they sent him back to the Prairie Dogs. 

Whether Gelinas continues in a future closer role, the ranking provided by Baseball America can do nothing but bring more attention him and the independent game. 

What more could a player ask for? 

For the complete list, please see oursportscentral.com.

*The list was limited to players who were 25 or younger on September 1.

Top 10

1. Kevin Gelinas (Abilene)

2. Chris Cox (Quebec)

3. Jonathan Kountis (Lake Erie)

4. A.J. Nunziato (Washington)

5. Alfonso Yevoli (Washington)

6. Jason Martin (Abilene)

7. Buddy Sosnoskie (Fargo-Moorhead)

8. Robert Coe (St. Paul)

9. James Hoyt (Edinburg/Wichita)

10. Brandon Sinnery (London/Lincoln)