Ranking All 30 MLB Teams on Homegrown Talent
February 6, 2015Ranking All 30 MLB Teams on Homegrown Talent
All 30 MLB teams emphasize building from within and cultivating their own homegrown talent. A lot of it has to do with payroll, as small-market teams are forced to get the most out of their controllable young assets, while big-market teams can afford to deal prospects and spend big in free agency
It's not always related to a market issue, though. For example, the St. Louis Cardinals continue to have more homegrown big league talent than anyone despite a relatively large payroll. Meanwhile, the Oakland Athletics have a somewhat small payroll to work with, but they're also thin on homegrown players.
What follows is a look at all 30 MLB teams ranked from worst to first on homegrown talent as we get set the start of spring training.
Methodology
First off, to be considered "homegrown," a player must have been drafted by an organization or signed by it as an amateur free agent, and I even decided to include foreign-born player who competed professionally in Japan, Cuba or Korea on this list.
At the top of each slide is a chart listing all of the team's "Notable Homegrown Players" with the year they were drafted or signed and their career WAR entering the season according to FanGraphs. Just below that I have provided a breakdown of how many of the projected eight (or nine in the AL) everyday position players for each team are homegrown, how many projected starting pitchers are homegrown and also how many of the projected 25-man roster are homegrown. All projections for that were taken from Roster Resource as far as how the Opening Day rosters shape up, so it should be noted that my opinion did not factor in there.
The total number of players set to make the 25-man roster is where I started in terms of ranking all 30 teams. Then I looked at how many of them were everyday position players or starting pitchers. Finally, superstar players trumped overall quantity in determining where teams fell.
I've also included a look at any homegrown prospects that might make an impact in the major leagues in 2015, with an emphasis on those players that appeared in his team’s specific top-10 prospect rankings.
30. Detroit Tigers
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| RHP Justin Verlander | 2004 | 47.3 |
| C Alex Avila | 2008 | 10.7 |
| 3B Nick Castellanos | 2010 | -0.7 |
| C Bryan Holaday | 2010 | 0.0 |
| IF Hernan Perez | 2007 | -0.5 |
Starting Position Players: 2/9
Starting Pitchers: 1/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 5/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
OF Steven Moya, C James McCann, RHP Buck Farmer, Perez
Analysis
The big one here for Detroit is obviously Justin Verlander, who has been a staple in the Detroit Tigers’ rotation since 2006 and one of the best pitchers in the game through the 2012 season. Other than that catcher Alex Avila was at least a productive regular last season, while former top prospect Nick Castellanos looks ready to improve upon a disappointing rookie season at the hot corner.
29. Oakland Athletics
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| LHP Sean Doolittle | 2007 | 5.7 |
| RHP Sonny Gray | 2011 | 4.8 |
| RHP A.J. Griffin | 2010 | 2.9 |
Starting Position Players: 0/9
Starting Pitchers: 2/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 3/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
None
Analysis
Billy Beane and the Oakland A's usually trades homegrown talent before it becomes overly expensive, stockpiling other people's high-end young talent in the process. As a result, they currently project to only have three homegrown players on their Opening Day roster, two of who are currently injured. Staff ace Sonny Gray and the team’s 2012 innings pitched leader A.J. Griffin are both in the 2014 rotation, while Sean Doolittle will likely resume duties as closer once he’s recovered from offseason shoulder surgery on his rotator cuff.
28. San Diego Padres
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| OF Will Venable | 2005 | 12.6 |
| LHP Cory Luebke | 2007 | 3.0 |
| 2B Jedd Gyorko | 2010 | 2.5 |
| RHP Nick Vincent | 2008 | 2.2 |
| 1B/OF Tommy Medica | 2010 | 1.0 |
| RHP Kevin Quackenbush | 2011 | 0.7 |
Starting Position Players: 1/9
Starting Pitchers: 0/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 6/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
RHP Matt Wisler, OF Rymer Liriano, IF/OF Cory Spangenberg
Analysis
This offseason saw the San Diego Padres ship off many of its top young players and prospects in deals that improves the team at the highest level, at times packaging four or five players in a trade so as to secure worthwhile return. Second baseman Jedd Gyorko had a nice rookie season in 2013 but battled injuries last season and fell into a sophomore slump. Beyond him, the Padres’ list of homegrown talent is comprised of upper-level prospects such as right-hander Matt Wisler and outfielder Rymer Liriano, whom are both candidates to see significant time in the major leagues in 2015.
27. Chicago Cubs
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| SS Starlin Castro | 2006 | 11.2 |
| C Wellington Castillo | 2004 | 6.8 |
| OF Jorge Soler | 2012 | 0.7 |
| IF/OF Arismendy Alcantara | 2008 | 0.2 |
| OF/IF Junior Lake | 2007 | 0.3 |
| RHP Blake Parker | 2006 | 0.4 |
| 2B Javier Baez | 2011 | -0.8 |
Starting Position Players: 3/8
Starting Pitchers: 0/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 4/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
3B Kris Bryant, Soler
Analysis
It’s hard not to be excited about the Chicago Cubs in 2015. After building arguably the best farm system in baseball, the Cubs took a step in the right direction last season with the promotions of prospects Javier Baez, Arismendy Alcantara and Jorge Soler. This year, all three players should crack the team’s Opening Day lineup, and it shouldn’t be long until slugger Kris Bryant joins them. Meanwhile, Starlin Castro will look to improve upon his bounce-back 2014 campaign in which he hit .292/.339/.438 in 134 games. As with some of other young, up-and-coming teams on this list, the Cubs’ collection of homegrown talent is sure to rank much, much higher within a few years.
26. Houston Astros
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| 2B Jose Altuve | 2007 | 8.1 |
| C Jason Castro | 2008 | 6.1 |
| LHP Dallas Keuchel | 2009 | 4.3 |
| OF George Springer | 2011 | 1.4 |
Starting Position Players: 3/9
Starting Pitchers: 1/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 4/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
SS Carlos Correa, RHP Mark Appel
Analysis
The Houston Astros have put together an impressive farm system and continue to build from the ground up, but the team doesn’t currently have much in the way of homegrown talent in the major leagues. Second baseman Jose Altuve took home the AL batting crown last season while catcher Jason Castro struggled to repeat his breakout 2013 campaign. And I don’t know about you guys, but I’m really looking forward to see George Springer back on the field.
25. Chicago White Sox
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| SS Alexei Ramirez | 2008 | 19.9 |
| LHP Chris Sale | 2011 | 17.1 |
| 1B Jose Abreu | 2014 | 5.3 |
| RHP Jake Petricka | 2010 | 0.8 |
| IF Carlos Sanchez | 2009 | -0.3 |
Starting Position Players: 3/9
Starting Pitchers: 1/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 6/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
LHP Carlos Rodon, 2B Micah Johnson
Analysis
The Chicago White Sox have added some nice pieces to the puzzle since the 2013 trade deadline, bypassing portions of the rebuilding process in favor more immediate success. A thin farm system—it’s much better than it was a year ago, however—means most of their current core group to build around has come from outside of the organization, with the exception being left-hander Chris Sale and sooner or later, Carlos Rodon.
24. Baltimore Orioles
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| C Matt Wieters | 2007 | 15.4 |
| 3B Manny Machado | 2010 | 10.1 |
| LHP Brian Matusz | 2008 | 4.8 |
| LHP Zach Britton | 2006 | 3.8 |
| RHP Kevin Gausman | 2012 | 2.6 |
| C Caleb Joseph | 2008 | 0.8 |
| 2B Jonathan Schoop | 2008 | 0.6 |
Starting Position Players: 3/9
Starting Pitchers: 1/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 7/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
RHP Dylan Bundy, 1B Christian Walker, RHP Zach Davies, RHP Mike Wright
Analysis
The Baltimore Orioles have balked at spending big in free agency over the years, instead building the team largely through the draft as well as trades. Third baseman Manny Machado suffered a gruesome knee injury in 2013 an played in only 82 games last season, but he remains one of the most promising young players in the game on both sides of the ball. Catcher Matt Wieters may never be the superstar many thought he'd be, but he's an above-average defensive catcher with plus power, and he could be in store for a big year with free agency on the horizon. Yet, Baltimore’s key to success continues to be the development of Kevin Gausman and Dylan Bundy, both of whom have ace potential.
23. New York Yankees
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| OF Brett Gardner | 2005 | 21.0 |
| RHP Ivan Nova | 2004 | 6.3 |
| RHP Masahiro Tanaka | 2014 | 3.2 |
| RHP Dellin Betances | 2006 | 3.2 |
| RHP Adam Warren | 2009 | 1.4 |
| C John Ryan Murphy | 2009 | 0.1 |
| C Austin Romine | 2007 | -0.4 |
Starting Position Players: 1/9
Starting Pitchers: 2/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 6/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
RHP Luis Severino, 2B/OF Robert Refsnyder, 1B Greg Bird, LHP Jacob Lindgren
Analysis
The retirement of Derek Jeter took one big name off the homegrown talent board, but his presence on such a list was replaced by two of the better arms in the league in right-handers Masahiro Tanaka and Dellin Betances. Brett Gardner is a solid everyday outfielder and really the only notable homegrown position player on the active roster, while Ivan Nova has a rotation spot waiting for him in 2015 once he’s fully recovered from Tommy John surgery. The Yankees have an intriguing crop of young players currently rising through the minor leagues, some of whom, such as Robert Refsnyder, Greg Bird and Jacob Lindren, could be ready to debut in 2015.
22. Cleveland Indians
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| 2B Jason Kipnis | 2009 | 9.2 |
| RHP Josh Tomlin | 2006 | 3.1 |
| 3B Lonnie Chisenhall | 2008 | 3.0 |
| RHP Danny Salazar | 2006 | 3.0 |
| RHP Cody Allen | 2011 | 2.4 |
| SS/2B Jose Ramirez | 2009 | 2.0 |
| LHP T.J. House | 2008 | 1.1 |
| C Roberto Perez | 2008 | 0.6 |
| LHP Kyle Crockett | 2013 | 0.3 |
Starting Position Players: 3/9
Starting Pitchers: 1/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 7/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
SS Francisco Lindor, 3B Giovany Urshela
Analysis
Jason Kipnis emerged as one of the top offensive second basemen in the game in 2013 only to take a step back last season, but it makes the 27-year-old a prime candidate for a rebound performance in 2015. Meanwhile, it’s only a matter of time until he’s joined by another future star in shortstop Francisco Lindor. Lonnie Chisenhall once again will get the chance to win the third-base job in spring training, but he now faces some competition at the position after the emergence of Giovany Urshela last season. On the pitching side of things, Cleveland has done a nice job hitting on late-round arms over the years, while the team’s best homegrown pitcher, right-hander Danny Salazar, is a strong candidate for a breakout performance in 2015.
21. Milwaukee Brewers
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| OF Ryan Braun | 2005 | 33.1 |
| C Jonathan Lucroy | 2007 | 15.5 |
| RHP Mike Fiers | 2009 | 4.1 |
| 2B Scooter Gennett | 2009 | 3.6 |
| RHP Wily Peralta | 2005 | 3.4 |
| OF Khris Davis | 2009 | 3.0 |
| RHP Jimmy Nelson | 2010 | 0.9 |
| RHP Tyler Thornburg | 2010 | 0.8 |
Starting Position Players: 4/8
Starting Pitchers: 3/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 9/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
None
Analysis
The Brewers lost their top homegrown pitcher when they traded Yovani Gallardo to the Rangers in late January, but they have two up-and-coming right-handers in Wily Peralta and Jimmy Nelson who are ready to compete for the title in his absence. The team’s best homegrown position player is, without question, Jonathan Lucory, as the 28-year-old led all catchers last season with 6.3 wins above replacement. Even Ryan Braun should post better numbers in 2015 after recovering from an offseason procedure on his right thumb. Scooter Gennett’s breakout 2014 season essentially ended Rickie Weeks’ reign over second base in Milwaukee, while 27-year-old outfielder Khris Davis showed good power with 22 home runs while playing in 144 games.
20. Toronto Blue Jays
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| LHP Brett Cecil | 2007 | 5.7 |
| RHP Marcus Stroman | 2012 | 3.3 |
| RHP Drew Hutchison | 2009 | 3.2 |
| RHP Aaron Loup | 2009 | 2.1 |
| RHP Aaron Sanchez | 2010 | 0.6 |
| RHP Chad Jenkins | 2009 | 0.3 |
| OF Dalton Pompey | 2010 | 0.2 |
| LHP Daniel Norris | 2011 | -0.1 |
| 2B Ryan Goins | 2009 | -0.3 |
Starting Position Players: 1/9
Starting Pitchers: 3/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 8/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
Aaron Sanchez, Daniel Norris, Dalton Pompey
Analysis
The Toronto Blue Jays project to have one homegrown player in their Opening Day lineup, 22-year-old center fielder Dalton Pompey, who ripped through three minor league levels last season before reaching the major leagues as a September call-up. Toronto’s pitching is a different story, however, as the team’s starting rotation is likely to feature three in-house products in Marcus Stroman, Drew Hutchison and Aaron Sanchez to begin the season, and left-hander Daniel Norris also should be in the mix throughout the year.
19. Texas Rangers
Notable Homegrown Players
| Players | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| RHP Yu Darvish | 2012 | 13.9 |
| LHP Derek Holland | 2006 | 13.0 |
| OF Leonys Martin | 2011 | 5.9 |
| LHP Martin Perez | 2007 | 2.9 |
| 1B/DH Mitch Moreland | 2007 | 1.7 |
| IF/OF Ryan Rua | 2011 | 0.6 |
| RHP Tanner Scheppers | 2009 | 0.6 |
| 2B Rougned Odor | 2011 | 0.5 |
| SS/2B Jurickson Profar | 2009 | -0.5 |
Starting Position Players: 3/9
Starting Pitchers: 2/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 9/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
3B Joey Gallo, RHP Chi Chi Gonzalez
Analysis
The Rangers’ collection of homegrown players is headlined by Yu Darvish and Derek Holland, both of whom have been worth more than 13 wins above replacement in their respective careers, and they also have left-hander Martin Perez coming back from Tommy John surgery around midseason.
Middle infielder Jurickson Profar was baseball’s top prospect going into 2013, but he spent most of the season shuffling around defensively and received inconsistent playing time. In 2014, a shoulder injury ended Profar’s season before it even began and ultimately opened the door for second baseman Rougned Odor, who batted .259/.297/.402 with 30 extra-base hits in 417 plate appearances with the Rangers in his age-20 season.
18. Minnesota Twins
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| 1B Joe Mauer | 2002 | 45.6 |
| LHP Glen Perkins | 2004 | 7.7 |
| 2B Brian Dozier | 2009 | 6.8 |
| LHP Brian Duensing | 2005 | 6.3 |
| SS/OF Danny Santana | 2007 | 3.2 |
| 3B Trevor Plouffe | 2004 | 3.1 |
| RHP Kyle Gibson | 2009 | 2.5 |
| C Josmil Pinto | 2006 | 1.0 |
| OF Oswaldo Arcia | 2007 | 0.5 |
| DH Kennys Vargas | 2009 | 0.4 |
| OF Aaron Hicks | 2008 | -0.8 |
Starting Position Players: 7/9
Starting Pitchers: 1/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 11/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
OF Byron Buxton, 3B Miguel Sano
Analysis
The Minnesota Twins are a team that will only continue to move up this list in the coming years, as they have one of the best farm systems in all of baseball, fronted by a pair of homegrown bats in Byron Buxton and Miguel Sano, to go along with a host of young players just beginning to scratch the surface of their potential in the major leagues.
All that said, Joe Mauer will remain the face of the franchise until Buxton arrives, playing alongside 2014 All-Star Brian Dozier on the right side of the infield. Oswaldo Arcia, Kennys Vargas and Josmil Pinto all have big-time raw power but come with defensive concerns at their respective positions, while Aaron Hicks will try to reclaim a spot in the outfield after batting .201 in 535 plate appearances over the last two years. The Twins don’t have many homegrown pitchers to show off at the moment beyond Kyle Gibson and closer Glen Perkins, but that should change over the next few years with high-ceiling prospects such as Jose Berrios, Kohl Stewart and Lewis Thorpe rising quickly through the minor leagues.
17. Boston Red Sox
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| 2B Dustin Pedroia | 2004 | 38.7 |
| RHP Clay Buchholz | 2005 | 14.1 |
| OF/2B Mookie Betts | 2012 | 1.9 |
| RHP Brandon Workman | 2010 | 1.4 |
| OF Rusney Castillo | 2014 | 0.9 |
| C Christian Vazquez | 2008 | 0.7 |
| SS Xander Bogaerts | 2009 | 0.6 |
| OF Jackie Bradley | 2011 | -0.1 |
Starting Position Players: 5/9
Starting Pitchers: 1/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 8/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
C Blake Swihart, LHP Henry Owens, 3B/LF Garin Cecchini, RHP Matt Barnes
Analysis
Boston’s ranking here is a product of the team’s wealth of homegrown talent at up-the-middle positions, but it also doesn’t hurt to have a veteran such Dustin Pedroia leading the pack. Mookie Betts and Xander Bogaerts are both 22 years old and have star potential, and it looks as though Cuban outfielder Rusney Castillo has impact potential on both sides of the ball based on his showing last September.
The Red Sox also have baseball’s top catching prospect in Blake Swihart, a 22-year-old switch-hitter with above-average defensive chops, as well as 6’6” left-hander Henry Owens. Both players are expected to open the season in Triple-A.
16. Arizona Diamondbacks
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| 1B Paul Goldschmidt | 2009 | 14.2 |
| OF A.J. Pollock | 2009 | 7.0 |
| RHP Josh Collmenter | 2007 | 6.3 |
| OF Ender Inciarte | 2012 | 2.9 |
| SS Chris Owings | 2009 | 2.2 |
| RHP Evan Marshall | 2011 | 0.7 |
Starting Position Players: 4/8
Starting Pitchers: 1/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 6/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
RHP Archie Bradley, RHP Aaron Blair, 3B/OF Yasmany Tomas
Analysis
The Arizona Diamondbacks only project to have six homegrown players on the Opening Day roster, but it's a quality group that includes four everyday position players. The real star here is clearly Paul Goldschmidt, who established himself as a bona fide superstar in 2013 and should anchor the lineup for years. Shortstop Chris Owings was a pleasant surprise last season and looked like a candidate for Rookie of the Year before suffering a shoulder injury, and center fielder A.J. Pollock also missed a good chunk of the season after an errant pitch broke his hand. The Diamondbacks added some serious power this offseason with the signing of 24-year-old Yasmany Tomas, though there are doubts about whether his bat will translate against major league pitchers. On the mound, right-hander Josh Collmenter currently represents the D-Backs’ top homegrown arm, though it shouldn’t be long until top prospects Archie Bradley and Aaron Blair receive a chance at the highest level.
15. Philadelphia Phillies
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| 2B Chase Utley | 2000 | 59.2 |
| LHP Cole Hamels | 2002 | 34.1 |
| C Carlos Ruiz | 1998 | 21.7 |
| 1B Ryan Howard | 1999 | 19.9 |
| LHP Jake Diekman | 2007 | 1.9 |
| RHP Ken Giles | 2011 | 1.7 |
| 1B/OF Darin Ruf | 2009 | 1.0 |
| RHP David Buchanan | 2010 | 0.6 |
| RHP Justin De Fratus | 2007 | 0.5 |
| IF Freddy Galvis | 2006 | 0.4 |
| 3B Cody Asche | 2012 | 0.4 |
| C Cameron Rupp | 2010 | 0.0 |
| IF/OF Cesar Hernandez | 2006 | -0.9 |
| OF Domonic Brown | 2006 | -1.2 |
Starting Position Players: 5/8
Starting Pitchers: 2/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 14/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
RHP Aaron Nola, 3B/1B Maikel Franco
Analysis
The Philadelphia Phillies stand out from a WAR standpoint as a result of having Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Carlos Ruiz and Cole Hamels all make their way through the farm system at roughly the same time. These days, however, they are all past their primes and with undesirable contracts, especially Howard. Hamels is still one of the best pitchers in the game, and it’s seemingly only a matter of time until he’s dealt for a big haul. Beyond that, the Phillies have a few power bullpen arms in right-hander Ken Giles and lefty Jake Diekman, and they’re likely to receive contributions from corner infielder Maikel Franco and 2014 first-round draft pick Aaron Nola at some point during the season.
14. Los Angeles Dodgers
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| LHP Clayton Kershaw | 2006 | 35.7 |
| OF Yasiel Puig | 2012 | 9.1 |
| RHP Kenley Jansen | 2004 | 8.3 |
| LHP Hyun-Jin Ryu | 2013 | 6.6 |
| C A.J. Ellis | 2003 | 6.3 |
| 1B/OF Scott Van Slyke | 2005 | 3.4 |
| LHP Paco Rodriguez | 2012 | 0.9 |
| OF Joc Pederson | 2010 | 0.1 |
| RHP Pedro Baez | 2007 | 0.0 |
Starting Position Players: 2/8
Starting Pitchers: 2/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 9/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
OF Joc Pederson
Analysis
It goes without saying that the Dodgers spot on this list is a product of Clayton Kershaw being a homegrown talent, although Yasiel Puig and closer Kenley Jansen certainly help to justify the ranking. The Dodgers would have been even higher if not for the offseason trades of Matt Kemp and Dee Gordon. Prospect Joc Pederson taking over in center field in 2015 marks the arrival of a new wave of talent for the Dodgers, with shortstop Corey Seager and left-hander Julio Urias, two of baseball’s top prospects, likely to arrive the following year.
13. Colorado Rockies
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| SS Troy Tulowitzki | 2005 | 34.0 |
| RHP Jhoulys Chacin | 2004 | 11.1 |
| 3B Nolan Arenado | 2009 | 5.7 |
| C Wilin Rosario | 2006 | 3.9 |
| OF Corey Dickerson | 2010 | 3.1 |
| OF Charlie Blackmon | 2008 | 2.9 |
| LHP Rex Brothers | 2009 | 2.7 |
| LHP Tyler Matzek | 2009 | 2.0 |
Starting Position Players: 5/8
Starting Pitchers: 2/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 8/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
RHP Jon Gray, RHP Eddie Butler
Analysis
The Colorado Rockies' best hitter (Troy Tulowitzki), best starting pitcher (Jhoulys Chacin) and best reliever (Rex Brothers) are all homegrown products. Add to that list 23-year-old third baseman Nolan Arenado, who won the Gold Glove as a rookie in 2013 and is only scratching the surface of his offensive potential, and catcher Wilin Rosario, a .277/.311/.484 hitter with 62 home runs over the first three full seasons of his career. Outfielders Corey Dickerson and Charlie Blackmon will look to build off their respective breakout performances in 2015, while the Rockies’ rotation is set to receive a much-needed boost from prospects Jon Gray and Eddie Butler.
12. Tampa Bay Rays
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| 3B Evan Longoria | 2006 | 39.5 |
| OF Desmond Jennings | 2006 | 12.1 |
| RHP Alex Cobb | 2006 | 7.9 |
| LHP Jake McGee | 2004 | 5.0 |
| LHP Matt Moore | 2007 | 4.6 |
| OF Kevin Kiermaier | 2010 | 3.8 |
| RHP Alex Colome | 2007 | 0.3 |
Starting Position Players: 3/9
Starting Pitchers: 3/6
Projected 25-Man Roster: 8/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
Colome
Analysis
The Tampa Bay Rays find themselves outside the top 10 of this list despite having eight homegrown players projected to make the Opening Day roster. That is because they still have one of the best rotations in all of baseball, even after trading David Price last July and then Jeremy Hellickson during the offseason. The trio of Alex Cobb, Matt Moore and Alex Colome were all developed in-house and have huge potential, both individually and collectively, although Moore isn’t expected back until mid-season after undergoing Tommy John surgery last April. Add to that an All-Star third baseman in Evan Longoria, a pair of solid outfielders in Desmond Jennings and Kevin Kiermaier and a hard-throwing setup man in Jake McGee, and it's clear the Rays belong this high.
11. Los Angeles Angels
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Signed/Drafted | Career WAR |
| RHP Jered Weaver | 2004 | 31.7 |
| OF Mike Trout | 2009 | 29.1 |
| SS Erik Aybar | 2002 | 19.1 |
| RHP Garrett Richards | 2009 | 5.6 |
| OF Kole Calhoun | 2010 | 4.7 |
| RHP Matt Shoemaker | 2008 | 2.3 |
| RHP Mike Morin | 2012 | 0.6 |
| 1B/DH C.J. Cron | 2011 | 0.0 |
| RHP Cam Bedrosian | 2010 | 0.0 |
Starting Position Players: 4/9
Starting Pitchers: 3/6
Projected 25-Man Roster: 9/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
None
Analysis
Having baseball’s best player in Mike Trout as a homegrown talent certainly helps the Los Angeles Angels' ranking here. The 23-year-old center fielder was taken with the 25th pick in the 2009 draft, and he has put together as impressive a start to his career as any player in the history of baseball.
Ace Jered Weaver was also developed in-house. He's been one of the best in the game over the past five seasons, going 80-42 with a 2.99 ERA and 1.09 WHIP while making 155 starts. Garrett Richards was dominant last season before suffering a gruesome knee injury in August, but the right-hander’s off-the-charts stuff and improved control makes him a candidate to replace Weaver at the front of the rotation in 2017.
10. Atlanta Braves
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| RHP Craig Kimbrel | 2008 | 11.4 |
| 1B Freddie Freeman | 2007 | 11.2 |
| SS Andrelton Simmons | 2010 | 9.1 |
| LHP Mike Minor | 2009 | 6.9 |
| RHP Julio Teheran | 2007 | 5.7 |
| LHP Alex Wood | 2012 | 4.1 |
| LHP Luis Avilan | 2005 | 0.9 |
| IF/OF Phil Gosselin | 2010 | 0.3 |
| RHP Shae Simmons | 2012 | 0.2 |
Starting Position Players: 3/8
Starting Pitchers: 3/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 9/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
2B Jose Peraza, C Christian Bethancourt
Analysis
A case can be made that the Atlanta Braves have one of the better homegrown rotations in the National League, with right-hander Julio Teheran leading a staff that includes Mike Minor and Alex Wood. The Braves also developed the most dominant closer in the game in Craig Kimbrel, and they have another young bullpen arm in Shae Simmons poised to make an impact in 2015.
Offensively, Freddie Freeman is a strong candidate to win a few batting crowns as he enters his prime—maybe even an MVP award—while shortstop Andrelton Simmons will look to bounce back from a disappointing 2014 season at the plate.
9. Miami Marlins
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| OF Giancarlo Stanton | 2007 | 19.5 |
| RHP Jose Fernandez | 2011 | 5.8 |
| OF Christian Yelich | 2010 | 5.7 |
| RHP Steve Cishek | 2007 | 5.3 |
| OF Marcell Ozuna | 2008 | 5.3 |
| RHP Tom Koehler | 2008 | 2.2 |
| RHP A.J. Ramos | 2009 | 1.1 |
| LHP Brad Hand | 2008 | -0.2 |
Starting Position Players: 3/8
Starting Pitchers: 2/6
Projected 25-Man Roster: 8/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
C J.T. Realmuto, RHP Jose Urena
Analysis
The Marlins decision to extend Giancarlo Stanton with a historic 13-year, $325 million contract thrust the team into win-now mode, and it wasn’t long before the club began to aggressively retool its big league roster around the 25-year-old slugger. Building a strong supporting cast around Stanton led the Marlins to trade multiple top prospects during the offseason, but they wisely held on to homegrown talents Jose Fernandez, Christian Yelich and Marcell Ozuna and established a solid team core for years to come. You can say what you want about owner Jeffery Loria and the rest of the Marlins’ front office, but they’re among the best in the business in developing and challenge young players.
8. Pittsburgh Pirates
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| OF Andrew McCutchen | 2005 | 33.9 |
| 2B Neil Walker | 2004 | 13.0 |
| OF Starling Marte | 2007 | 9.7 |
| 1B Pedro Alvarez | 2008 | 5.9 |
| RHP Gerrit Cole | 2011 | 4.5 |
| SS Jordy Mercer | 2008 | 3.7 |
| LHP Tony Watson | 2007 | 1.8 |
| OF Gregory Polanco | 2009 | 0.2 |
Starting Position Players: 6/8
Starting Pitchers: 1/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 8/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
RHP Jameson Taillon, 1B/OF Josh Bell, RHP Nick Kingham, 2B Alen Hanson
Analysis
The Pittsburgh Pirates reached the playoffs for the second time in as many years last season, as the organization’s terrific core of homegrown players was once again at the heart of their success. They could rank even higher on this list before 2015 is over if prospects such as Jameson Taillon, Josh Bell and Nick Kingham make the big league impact many think they will.
Andrew McCutchen is a bona fide superstar and perennial MVP candidate, but it might not be long until teammate Starling Marte challenges him for the award. Gerrit Cole is still a bit rough around the edges, but there are only few pitchers in the major leagues that possess his combination of size and stuff.
7. Kansas City Royals
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| OF Alex Gordon | 2005 | 26.8 |
| C Salvador Perez | 2006 | 10.8 |
| RHP Greg Holland | 2007 | 9.5 |
| RHP Luke Hochevar | 2007 | 9.4 |
| OF Jarrod Dyson | 2006 | 7.8 |
| 3B Mike Moustakas | 2007 | 5.3 |
| LHP Danny Duffy | 2007 | 4.0 |
| RHP Kelvin Herrera | 2006 | 3.6 |
| RHP Yordano Ventura | 2008 | 2.8 |
| 1B Eric Hosmer | 2008 | 2.4 |
| IF Christian Colon | 2010 | 0.7 |
| RHP Louis Coleman | 2009 | 0.6 |
Starting Position Players: 4/9
Starting Pitchers: 2/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 12/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
RHP Kyle Zimmer, LHP Brandon Finnegan
Analysis
The Giants may have won the 2014 World Series, but the season belonged to the American League Champion Kansas City Royals. General manager Dayton Moore’s vision of building a winning organization based on strong scouting and player development finally was validated, as the Royals introduced a collection of homegrown talents to a national audience last October.
Alex Gordon, Salvy Perez and closer Greg Holland each have appeared in back-to-back All-Star Games, and it probably won’t be long until first baseman Eric Hosmer and 23-year-old flame-thrower Yordano Ventura are elected to play in a Midsummer Classic. The Royals’ crop of potential impact players spread throughout the minor leagues should help them survive an inevitable turnover in the coming years, but they also have the necessary combination of high-end talent and depth to pull off a big trade.
6. San Francisco Giants
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| RHP Matt Cain | 2002 | 28.4 |
| RHP Tim Lincecum | 2006 | 27.4 |
| C Buster Posey | 2008 | 23.5 |
| LHP Madison Bumgarner | 2007 | 16.2 |
| 1B Brandon Belt | 2009 | 7.1 |
| SS Brandon Crawford | 2008 | 7.1 |
| RHP Sergio Romo | 2005 | 6.6 |
| 2B Joe Panik | 2010 | 1.6 |
| C Andrew Susac | 2011 | 0.8 |
Starting Position Players: 4/8
Starting Pitchers: 3/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 9/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
Susac, RHP Hunter Strickland, LHP Steven Okert
Analysis
The San Francisco Giants pitching staff propelled the team to its third World Series title in the last five years in 2015, as Madison Bumgarner became the greatest pitcher in WS history with five shutout innings out the bullpen in Game 7. A healthy Matt Cain should do wonders for the team’s rotation next season, where as Tim Lincecum’s future role is perpetually up in the air.
Buster Posey is the face of the franchise and arguably the best offensive catcher in the game, and the combination of Brandon Crawford and Joe Panik at shortstop and second base, respectively, give the Giants an unheralded but very solid double-play duo. Sergio Romo has been one of the more successful relievers in the past half-decade, but the right-hander will face late-inning competition next season from prospects Hunter Strickland, Steven Okert and Erik Cordier.
5. Seattle Mariners
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| RHP Felix Hernandez | 2002 | 47.2 |
| 3B Kyle Seager | 2009 | 13.5 |
| RHP Hisashi Iwakuma | 2012 | 7.7 |
| OF Dustin Ackley | 2009 | 6.7 |
| SS Brad Miller | 2011 | 3.3 |
| C Mike Zunino | 2012 | 1.7 |
| LHP James Paxton | 2010 | 1.7 |
| SS/2B Chris Taylor | 2012 | 1.4 |
| RHP Taijuan Walker | 2010 | 0.9 |
| RHP Dominic Leone | 2012 | 0.7 |
| RHP Yoervis Medina | 2005 | 0.6 |
| RHP Erasmo Ramirez | 2007 | 0.5 |
Starting Position Players: 4/9
Starting Pitchers: 4/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 12/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
3B/1B D.J. Peterson, SS Ketel Marte
Analysis
The Seattle Mariners' homegrown group is still more potential than production, but they definitely have the core of young talent to support the signing of big-name free agents such as Robinson Cano and Nelson Cruz.
The stud of the group is obviously ace Felix Hernandez, who has been in the Mariners rotation since 2005, when he was just 19 years old. He's one of the best in the game, and the team has him locked up through 2020 with options. Second-year starters Taijuan Walker and James Paxton will look to build off their promising rookie seasons, and both hurlers should find a spot in the Opening Day rotation.
Third baseman Kyle Seager has quietly established himself as an All-Star, although there was nothing quiet about the $100-plus million contract extension he received during the offseason. Middle infielders Brad Miller and Chris Taylor will compete at shortstop this spring, while 2012 first-round draft pick Mike Zunino will try to make more consistent contact at the plate.
4. New York Mets
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| 3B David Wright | 2001 | 52.0 |
| 2B Daniel Murphy | 2006 | 11.8 |
| LHP Jon Niese | 2005 | 9.8 |
| RHP Matt Harvey | 2010 | 7.1 |
| OF Juan Lagares | 2006 | 6.7 |
| IF Ruben Tejada | 2006 | 3.8 |
| RHP Bobby Parnell | 2005 | 3.6 |
| RHP Jake deGrom | 2010 | 3.0 |
| RHP Dillon Gee | 2007 | 2.5 |
| 1B Lucas Duda | 2007 | 2.2 |
| OF Kirk Nieuwenhuis | 2008 | 2.0 |
| SS Wilmer Flores | 2007 | 1.2 |
| RHP Jeurys Familia | 2007 | 0.2 |
| RHP Jenrry Mejia | 2007 | 0.2 |
Starting Position Players: 5/8
Starting Pitchers: 3/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 14/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
RHP Noah Syndergaard, LHP Steven Matz, C Kevin Plawecki, 2B Dilson Herrera, RHP Rafael Montero
Analysis
The New York Mets figure to have over half of their Opening Day roster made up of homegrown players, including three starting pitchers (Harvey, deGrom, Niese) and five position players. Third baseman David Wright is the cream of the crop here, though he’ll have to prove he’s healthy after an injury-plagued 2014 campaign, while first baseman Lucas Duda will attempt to build upon his breakout performance.
The Mets’ bullpen should be excellent for years to come thanks to the presence of Parnell, Mejia and Familia, and the organization’s outstanding farm system means they will receive plenty of additional help over the course of the season.
3. Cincinnati Reds
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| 1B Joey Votto | 2002 | 33.6 |
| RHP Johnny Cueto | 2004 | 17.0 |
| OF Jay Bruce | 2005 | 15.3 |
| RHP Homer Bailey | 2004 | 11.9 |
| 3B Todd Frazier | 2007 | 11.3 |
| LHP Aroldis Chapman | 2009 | 9.3 |
| RHP Mike Leake | 2009 | 8.6 |
| SS Zack Cozart | 2007 | 6.4 |
| C Devin Mesocaro | 2007 | 4.6 |
| OF Billy Hamilton | 2009 | 4.1 |
| RHP Sam LeCure | 2005 | 1.8 |
| LHP Tony Cingrani | 2011 | 1.0 |
Starting Position Players: 6/8
Starting Pitchers: 4/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 12/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
RHP Robert Stephenson
Analysis
Brandon Phillips basically was the only everyday position player on the Cincinnati Reds’ roster last season who was not developed in-house. All of the team’s top hitters in recent memory are homegrown talents: Votto, Bruce, Frazier, Mesoraco, Hamilton. Speaking of Mesoraco, the Reds paid him like the All-Star-caliber player he is over the offseason.
On the pitching side of things, Johnny Cueto and Homer Bailey are two of the better arms in the NL, and Mike Leake has quietly put together a very solid career at the back end of the rotation—something the Reds hope Tony Cingrani can do in 2015. Meanwhile, Aroldis Chapman is as unhittable as ever, while flame-throwing prospect Robert Stephenson should receive his first taste of the major leagues this season.
2. St. Louis Cardinals
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| C Yadier Molina | 2000 | 31.6 |
| 3B Matt Carpenter | 2009 | 11.9 |
| OF Jon Jay | 2006 | 11.6 |
| RHP Lance Lynn | 2008 | 9.8 |
| RHP Trevor Rosenthal | 2009 | 3.5 |
| 1B Matt Adams | 2009 | 3.3 |
| RHP Michael Wacha | 2012 | 3.0 |
| 2B Kolten Wong | 2011 | 1.7 |
| IF Pete Kozma | 2007 | 1.6 |
| RHP Carlos Martinez | 2010 | 1.4 |
| RHP Seth Maness | 2011 | 0.5 |
| LHP Kevin Siegrist | 2008 | 0.4 |
| LHP Sam Freeman | 2008 | 0.0 |
| C Tony Cruz | 2007 | -0.4 |
Starting Position Players: 5/8
Starting Pitchers: 3/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 14/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
LHP Marco Gonzales, OF Stephen Piscotty
Analysis
The St. Louis Cardinals reached the World Series in 2013 with a roster that featured 19 homegrown players. There was some turnover this offseason as a result of trades, but the Cards still project to have about 15 homegrown players on its Opening Day roster.
Making things even more impressive, six of those players were drafted after the 10th round, highlighting the Cardinals’ ability find value and cultivate talent where others don’t. On top of that, the emergence of Kolten Wong, Michael Wacha and Marco Gonzales last season shows just how successful the Cardinals are with their first-round draft picks. No team builds from within better than the Cardinals, and they should continue to contend long-term as a result.
1. Washington Nationals
Notable Homegrown Players
| Player | Drafted/Signed | Career WAR |
| 1B Ryan Zimmerman | 2005 | 35.3 |
| RHP Jordan Zimmermann | 2007 | 17.0 |
| SS Ian Desmond | 2004 | 16.5 |
| RHP Stephen Strasburg | 2009 | 15.2 |
| OF Bryce Harper | 2010 | 9.5 |
| 3B Anthony Rendon | 2011 | 8.1 |
| IF Danny Espinosa | 2008 | 6.9 |
| RHP Craig Stammen | 2005 | 4.5 |
| RHP Drew Storen | 2009 | 3.3 |
| RHP Aaron Barrett | 2010 | 0.6 |
| OF Michael Taylor | 2009 | 0.1 |
| 1B/OF Tyler Moore | 2008 | -0.3 |
Starting Position Players: 5/9
Starting Pitchers: 2/5
Projected 25-Man Roster: 12/25
Homegrown Top Prospects
OF Michael Taylor
Analysis
The Washington Nationals’ inability to win games up until 2011 afforded them the opportunity to pick No. 1 overall in back-to-back drafts, and they grabbed a pair of generational talents in Stephen Strasburg (2009) and Bryce Harper (2010). Both have already proved to be stars in the major leagues, but they are also capable of much more in the years ahead, especially Harper.
The left side of the infield of Ian Desmond and Anthony Rendon is as good as any in baseball offensively. Specifically, the sky seems to be the limit for Rendon, who earned himself some MVP votes with his breakout 2014 campaign. Meanwhile, prospect Michael Taylor should receive his share of playing time in 2015, and he has the potential to make the Nats’ even more exciting than it already is. Lastly, Craig Stammen and Drew Storen will continue to be key pieces to the bullpen, especially after the team decided to trade Tyler Ciippard during the offseason.