Ranking All 30 MLB Farm Systems Post-Trade Deadline
Luke Strickland@LSTRICK21Contributor IIIAugust 3, 2015Ranking All 30 MLB Farm Systems Post-Trade Deadline

The 2015 MLB trade deadline has come and gone and left farm systems around the league with vastly different rosters.
So after a flurry of notable transactions, we are re-ranking each team's farm system?
When grading an organization's prospect pool, two things matter: quantity and quality.
Teams with multiple impact prospects like the Los Angeles Dodgers, Minnesota Twins and Washington Nationals will obviously be ranked higher. But teams like the Atlanta Braves and Pittsburgh Pirates should also be commended for accumulating 10 to 15 promising youngsters. In the end, prospects that look like future All-Stars will always win out.
These rankings are obviously fluid, as top talents are graduating from prospect status left and right around the big leagues. But after the 2015 draft and trade deadline, this list is an accurate representation of each team's potential future success.
Make sure to let your voice be heard in the comments section below. Do you agree with these rankings? Who should be higher? Lower?
Let's get started.
30. San Diego Padres

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. OF Hunter Renfroe | AA | 2016 |
2. RHP Colin Rea | AAA | 2015 |
3. SS Jose Rondon | AA | 2017 |
4. RHP Austin Smith | ROK | 2019 |
5. OF Travis Jankowski | AAA | 2017 |
6. SS Ruddy Giron | A | 2018 |
7. RHP Jacob Nix | ROK | 2018 |
8. OF Michael Gettys | A | 2018 |
9. RHP Tayron Guerrero | AA | 2016 |
10. OF Rymer Liriano | AAA | 2015 |
Additions: None
Losses: None
Plenty was made of San Diego Padres general manger A.J. Preller's decision to stand pat at the deadline.
But looking at the organization's farm system, Preller's conservative approach turned out to be a wasted opportunity to replenish the lower ranks.
By trading for Matt Kemp, Justin Upton, Craig Kimbrel and Wil Myers before the season, the Padres parted with a handful of useful prospects that figure to be reliable big leaguers. As exciting as last winter was, failing to recoup any value after a disappointing first half was just plain foolish.
San Diego's lone worthwhile prospect at the moment is outfielder Hunter Renfroe, but even he has seen his value diminish the season. Renfroe has fallen to No. 85 on MLB.com's top 100 due to .327 on-base percentage and concerning strikeout numbers.
29. San Francisco Giants

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. RHP Tyler Beede | AA | 2017 |
2. SS Christian Arroyo | A+ | 2017 |
3. RHP Phil Bickford | ROK | 2018 |
4. SS Lucius Fox | N/A | 2019 |
5. RHP Sam Coonrod | N/A | 2017 |
6. RHP Kyle Crick | AA | 2016 |
7. SS Jalen Miller | ROK | 2019 |
8. 1B Christopher Shaw | A- | 2018 |
9. LHP Steven Okert | AAA | 2015 |
10. LHP Josh Osich | AAA | 2015 |
Additions: None
Losses: RHP Keury Mella, 1B Adam Duvall
The San Francisco Giants were able to acquire Mike Leake at the deadline for a mid-level prospect, but the club is still suffering from a lack of organizational depth.
San Francisco's farm was so barren that four newcomers entered their top 10 since last month's rankings. Phil Bickford, Jalen Miller and Christopher Shaw were all taken in the 2015 draft, while Lucius Fox was signed as an international free agent.
Right-handers Tyler Beede and Kyle Crick have swapped places since the beginning of the season. Beede's stock is rising after a solid campaign, while Crick has walked nearly as many hitters as he's struck out in 2015.
28. Los Angeles Angels

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. LHP Sean Newcomb | A+ | 2017 |
2. RHP Christopher Ellis | AA | 2017 |
3. RHP Victor Alcantara | A+ | 2017 |
4. RHP Joe Gatto | ROK | 2018 |
5. LHP Nate Smith | AA | 2015 |
6. INF Roberto Baldoquin | A+ | 2016 |
7. RHP Nick Tropeano | AAA | 2015 |
8. C Taylor Ward | ROK | 2018 |
9. 3B Kyle Kubitza | AAA | 2015 |
10. OF Jahmai Jones | ROK | 2019 |
Additions: None
Losses: RHP Eduar Lopez, SS Eric Stamets
Like the Giants, the Los Angeles Angels couldn't quite land that big fish at the deadline.
Instead of acquiring Justin Upton, Carlos Gomez or Carlos Gonzalez, the Halos were forced to settle on Shane Victorino, David Murphy and David DeJesus. That trio may be enough to push the Angels into the postseason, but the club had to shop in the clearance aisle because it really didn't have much to offer.
Left-handed pitching prospect Sean Newcomb was L.A.'s lone trade chip, but he was likely untouchable. He is a dynamite talent and is currently ranked 24th on MLB.com's top 100. After Newcomb, Christopher Ellis (3.55 ERA) and Nate Smith (2.48 ERA) improved their value on the mound this season.
Offensively, Taylor Ward (.349, 19 RBI) has performed like a first-round pick in his first taste of pro ball, while Kyle Kubitza earned a cup of coffee in the majors after success in Triple-A.
27. Miami Marlins

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. RHP Tyler Kolek | A | 2018 |
2. LHP Jarlin Garcia | AA | 2017 |
3. LHP Justin Nicolino | AAA | 2015 |
4. LHP Adam Conley | AAA | 2015 |
5. 1B Josh Naylor | ROK | 2018 |
6. RHP Kendry Flores | AAA | 2015 |
7. RHP Trevor Williams | AA | 2016 |
8. LHP Brett Lilek | A- | 2018 |
9. OF Austin Dean | A+ | 2017 |
10. OF Isael Soto | A | 2018 |
Additions: RHP Jeff Brigham, RHP Kevin Guzman, RHP Victor Araujo, RHP Ivan Pineyro, SS Elliot Soto, C Tomas Telis, LHP Cody Ege
Losses: None
The Miami Marlins are another team that hasn't lived up to expectations in 2015. The Fish did, however, trade veterans Mat Latos, Dan Haren, Sam Dyson and Michael Morse to add some depth to the farm system.
The Marlins have to be slightly disappointed with No. 1 overall prospect Tyler Kolek and his development this season. The right-hander has an elite arm, but walks have been an issue while in Single-A. On a positive note, lefty Adam Conley and right-hander Kendry Flores have thrown the ball well in 2015.
Miami's farm system isn't overly impressive on paper, but most of its young core is already in the big leagues. Still, its lack of impact talents after Kolek keeps it from progressing out of the bottom of the pack.
26. Toronto Blue Jays

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. OF Dalton Pompey | AAA | 2015 |
2. RHP Jonathan Harris | A- | 2018 |
3. OF Anthony Alford | A+ | 2018 |
4. RHP Sean Reid-Foley | A+ | 2018 |
5. C Max Pentecost | A- | 2017 |
6. OF Vladimir Guerrero Jr. | N/A | 2020 |
7. SS Richard Urena | A+ | 2018 |
8. 1B Rowdy Tellez | A+ | 2018 |
9. RHP Connor Greene | A+ | 2017 |
10. 3B Mitch Nay | A+ | 2017 |
Additions: None
Losses: LHP Daniel Norris, RHP Miguel Castro, RHP Jeff Hoffman, RHP Jesus Tinoco, LHP Matt Boyd, LHP Jairo Labourt, RHP Jimmy Cordero, RHP Alberto Tirado, LHP Rob Rasmussen, LHP Jacob Brentz, LHP Nick Wells
The Toronto Blue Jays and general manager Alex Anthopoulos shocked the baseball world with two blockbuster trades, acquiring David Price and Troy Tulowitzki before the deadline.
While Toronto's major league product significantly improved over the past week, the organization's farm system took a big hit.
Just look at all those losses. Of those departed prospects, Daniel Norris, Miguel Castro and Jeff Hoffman were in Toronto's top six last month. The Blue Jays do have some talent left over, especially in outfielders Dalton Pompey and Anthony Alford, right-hander Jonathan Harris and catcher Max Pentecost.
It's hard to hate Anthopolous' go-for-it mentality, and this isn't a criticism of his deadline strategy. But the fact remains that the Blue Jays dealt away a huge chunk of their future to address the present and have fallen down the farm-system rankings.
25. Seattle Mariners

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. OF Alex Jackson | A- | 2018 |
2. SS Ketel Marte | AAA/MLB | 2016 |
3. LHP Luiz Gohara | A- | 2018 |
4. INF D.J. Peterson | AA | 2016 |
5. RHP Edwin Diaz | AA | 2017 |
6. INF Patrick Kivlehan | AAA | 2016 |
7. OF Tyler O'Neill | A+ | 2017 |
8. OF Luis Liberato | A- | 2019 |
9. LHP Ryan Yarbrough | A+ | 2016 |
10. 1B/OF Jordy Lara | AA | 2016 |
Additions: LHP Rob Rasmussen, LHP Jacob Brentz, LHP Nick Wells. RHP Adrian Sampson
Losses: None
The Seattle Mariners had a relatively quiet deadline, adding a few prospects for reliever Mark Lowe and infielder Dustin Ackley.
Seattle's farm system is headlined by two impressive position players in outfielder Alex Jackson and shortstop Ketel Marte.
Marte has skyrocketed up prospect lists around the baseball world and has been recently promoted to the big leagues. The speedy infielder hit .321 in the minors with 20 stolen bases before being called up to The Show. Jackson hasn't had the same success in Single-A, hitting .201 on the year.
Because of those two, Seattle's farm inches just ahead of some of the other poor systems in the big leagues.
24. Baltimore Orioles

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. RHP Hunter Harvey | A | 2017 |
2. RHP Dylan Bundy | AA | 2016 |
3. OF D.J. Stewart | A- | 2018 |
4. 3B Jomar Reyes | A | 2018 |
5. 1B Christian Walker | AAA | 2015 |
6. RHP Mychal Givens | AA/MLB | 2015 |
7. RHP Mike Wright | AAA | 2015 |
8. C Chance Sisco | A+ | 2017 |
9. RHP Tyler Wilson | AAA | 2015 |
10. RHP David Hess | A+ | 2017 |
Additions: OF Junior Lake (no longer has prospect status)
Losses: RHP Zach Davies, SS JaCoby Jones
On paper, Baltimore has two of the top pitching prospects in the minor leagues.
Unfortunately, the game isn't played on paper, and both Hunter Harvey and Dylan Bundy have watched their value diminish with consistent injury issues this season.
Harvey hasn't thrown a pitch in 2015 and might not return in any capacity this season. Bundy has looked electric at times over the last few months, but a shoulder injury has kept him from taking on a full workload.
Aside from those two hurlers, the O's don't have much else to work with. Due to a lack of talent, first-round draft pick D.J. Stewart slid into the No. 3 spot. On the plus side, right-hander Mychal Givens (1.79 ERA) and catcher Chance Sisco (.372 OBP) have played well in 2015 and look like worthwhile prospects.
But without a healthy Bundy and Harvey, the O's can't be considered a top farm system.
23. Chicago White Sox

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. SS Tim Anderson | AA | 2016 |
2. RHP Carson Fulmer | A+ | 2017 |
3. RHP Frankie Montas | AA | 2016 |
4. RHP Spencer Adams | A | 2018 |
5. 2B Micah Johnson | AAA | 2015 |
6. 3B Trey Michalczewski | A+ | 2017 |
7. RHP Tyler Danish | AA | 2016 |
8. OF Micker Adolfo | ROK | 2019 |
9. OF Courtney Hawkins | AA | 2017 |
10. OF Jacob May | AA | 2017 |
Additions: None
Losses: None
A late stretch of good play kept the Chicago White Sox from adding to its farm system, which could use another impact player or two.
The White Sox do have a phenomenal shortstop prospect in Tim Anderson. In Double-A, Anderson is hitting .303 with 39 steals on the season. If he continues to produce as 2015 closes, there's no reason Anderson can't be Chicago's everyday shortstop next season.
On the mound, first-round pick Carson Fulmer is one of the top prospects from the 2015 draft. The former Vanderbilt star will spend the rest of the year in High-A and should be in Double-A to start 2016. Right-hander Frankie Montas has also emerged as an intriguing talent due to elite strikeout stuff.
After that talented trio, the farm falls off a bit.
22. Kansas City Royals

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. SS Raul Adalberto Mondesi | AA | 2017 |
2. RHP Ashe Russell | ROK | 2018 |
3. RHP Kyle Zimmer | AA | 2016 |
4. RHP Miguel Almonte | AAA | 2016 |
5. OF Bubba Starling | AA | 2017 |
6. OF Jorge Bonifacio | AA | 2016 |
7. RHP Scott Blewett | A | 2018 |
8. LHP Foster Griffin | A | 2018 |
9. C Chase Vallot | A | 2018 |
10. RHP Nolan Watson | ROK | 2019 |
Additions: None
Losses: LHP Sean Manaea, LHP Brandon Finnegan (no longer has prospect status), LHP Cody Reed, LHP John Lamb, RHP Aaron Brooks
For the Kansas City Royals, the window to win a World Series is right now. General manager Dayton Moore approached the deadline with that mindset, acquiring Johnny Cueto and Ben Zobrist.
But, as you would expect, adding two talents of that magnitude took its toll on the farm system. The Royals said goodbye to four left-handed pitchers, including highly touted prospects Sean Manaea and Brandon Finnegan.
Despite those losses, Kansas City will be pleased to hang on to talented shortstop Raul Adalberto Mondesi. The 20-year-old is already an elite defender with plus speed and the skills to become a 10-15 homer guy one day in the big leagues.
On the mound, first-round pick Ashe Russell and right-handers Kyle Zimmer and Miguel Almonte give the Royals quality young arms to build around.
Kansas City's farm system definitely took a step back at the deadline, but there's still a handful of talented prospects to be excited about.
21. Oakland A's

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. SS Franklin Barreto | A+ | 2017 |
2. 1B/OF Matt Olson | AA | 2016 |
3. LHP Sean Manaea | AA | 2016 |
4. SS Richie Martin | A- | 2018 |
5. 3B Matt Chapman | A+ | 2017 |
6. INF Renato Nunez | AA | 2016 |
7. SS Chad Pinder | AA | 2016 |
8. C Jacob Nottingham | A+ | 2018 |
9. RHP Dakota Chalmers | ROK | 2019 |
10. LHP Dillon Overton | AA | 2017 |
Additions: LHP Sean Manaea, C Jacob Nottingham, RHP Casey Meisner, RHP Daniel Mengden, RHP Aaron Brooks
Losses: None
The Oakland A's never made a serious run at playoff contention and had plenty of assets to flip at the deadline. So naturally, general manager Billy Beane got what he could for the likes of Scott Kazmir, Ben Zobrist and Tyler Clippard.
Catcher Jacob Nottingham (.371, 14 HR) was the centerpiece of the Kazmir deal, while left-hander Sean Manaea (3.03 ERA) was the key acquisition for Zobrist. Even Clippard landed right-hander Casey Meisner (10-4, 2.51 ERA), who ranks 11th in Oakland's system according to MLB.com.
At the top of the list are two potential impact players in shortstop Franklin Barreto (.298, 12 HR) and slugger Matt Olson (13 HR). Barreto, who came over in the Josh Donaldson deal, is Oakland's future at short, while Olson continues to impress with his power potential.
Beane did well to add three top-11 prospects for three rental pieces. Oakland still has a ways to go if it wants to crack the top half here, but it's headed in the right direction.
20. Detroit Tigers

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. LHP Daniel Norris | AAA | 2015 |
2. OF Steven Moya | AAA | 2015 |
3. OF Derek Hill | A | 2018 |
4. RHP Buck Farmer | MLB | 2015 |
5. RHP Michael Fulmer | AA | 2017 |
6. RHP Beau Burrows | ROK | 2019 |
7. RHP Spencer Turnbull | A | 2017 |
8. LHP Matt Boyd | AAA | 2015 |
9. RHP Luis Cessa | AAA | 2016 |
10. LHP Kevin Ziomek | A+ | 2017 |
Additions: LHP Daniel Norris, RHP Michael Fulmer, LHP Matt Boyd, LHP Jairo Labourt, SS JaCoby Jones, RHP Luis Cessa
Losses: None
Detroit Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski took it to the last minute, but he finally accepted his team's fate as a seller at the trade deadline.
Dombrowski flipped David Price, Yoenis Cespedes and Joakim Soria for multiple impact prospects, four of which have entered Detroit's top-10 list.
The prize of the Price trade was left-hander Daniel Norris. The 22-year-old has struggled with command at times this season, but he's still considered one of the top southpaws in the minor leagues. Fellow lefty Matt Boyd also came over in the same deal.
Dombrowski was able to turn Cespedes, a free-agent-to-be, into two right-handers in Michael Fulmer and Luis Cessa. Fulmer has been lights-out in Double-A this season and is a fantastic get for a rental like Cespedes.
At the beginning of the season, Detroit would have ranked near the bottom of this list. But Dombrowski's ability to be realistic with his team allowed him to replenish a farm system that was in desperate need of an influx of talent.
19. Cincinnati Reds

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. OF Jesse Winker | AA | 2016 |
2. RHP Robert Stephenson | AAA | 2016 |
3. LHP Amir Garrett | A+ | 2017 |
4. C Tyler Stephenson | ROK | 2019 |
5. RHP Keury Mella | A+ | 2017 |
6. RHP Nicholas Travieso | A+ | 2017 |
7. SS Alex Blandino | A+ | 2017 |
8. SS Blake Trahan | ROK | 2018 |
9. LHP Cody Reed | AA | 2018 |
10. RHP Antonio Santillan | ROK | 2018 |
Additions: LHP Brandon Finnegan (no longer has prospect status), RHP Keury Mella, LHP Cody Reed, LHP John Lamb, 1B Adam Duvall
Losses: None
The Cincinnati Reds added multiple prospects for starting pitchers Johnny Cueto and Mike Leake, but they could have really altered the perception of their farm system by fully committing to the rebuild.
As it was, the Reds acquired left-handers Brandon Finnegan, Cody Reed and John Lamb for Cueto and right-hander Keury Mella and first baseman Adam Duvall for Leake.
Finnegan is no longer a prospect, but the 22-year-old has tremendous upside. Even if he doesn't stick as a starter, the southpaw has the strikeout stuff to become a lockdown closer and was the centerpiece of the Cueto deal.
The addition of Mella was an underrated move considering Leake's rental status. The 21-year-old has an electric arm and could be in the big leagues as early as 2017.
No, the Reds farm system isn't as good as it could be. But it's better now, and that's an important step in the right direction.
18. St. Louis Cardinals

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Status | ETA |
1. RHP Alex Reyes | AA | 2017 |
2. OF Stephen Piscotty | AAA/MLB | 2015 |
3. RHP Jack Flaherty | A | 2018 |
4. LHP Marco Gonzales | AAA | 2015 |
5. OF Magneuris Sierra | ROK | 2018 |
6. SS Edmundo Sosa | ROK | 2018 |
7. OF Nick Plummer | ROK | 2019 |
8. OF Charlie Tilson | AA | 2017 |
9. RHP Luke Weaver | A+ | 2017 |
10 LHP Tim Cooney | AAA | 2015 |
Additions: None
Losses: LHP Rob Kaminsky, OF Malik Collymore
The St. Louis Cardinals made only minor moves at the deadline, with No. 3 preseason prospect Rob Kaminsky being the only significant loss from the farm system.
Trading Kaminsky could sting down the road, but obviously the Cardinals' strength lies in their organizational depth of starting pitching. Michael Wacha, Lance Lynn and Carlos Martinez are well-known commodities, but the Red Birds have plenty of talented hurlers in the minor leagues as well.
That starts with right-hander Alex Reyes, who has moved into MLB.com's top 20 prospects. In 16 starts this season, Reyes has posted a 2.16 ERA and fanned 112 batters. He's only 20, but Reyes has the potential to become a front-line major league starter.
After Reyes, right-hander Jack Flaherty (6-1, 2.87 ERA) and lefty Marco Gonzalez are both in St. Louis' top five. Offensively, outfielder Stephen Piscotty has already made his major league debut and Charlie Tilson has enjoyed a standout year in Double-A.
St. Louis is set at the major league level and has solid talent in the minors. What else should we expect from arguably the best-run organization in MLB?
17. Cleveland Indians

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. OF Bradley Zimmer | AA | 2017 |
2. OF Clint Frazier | A+ | 2017 |
3. LHP Rob Kaminsky | A+ | 2017 |
4. LHP Brady Aiken | N/A | 2018 |
5. OF Tyler Naquin | AAA | 2016 |
6. LHP Justus Sheffield | A | 2018 |
7. 1B Bobby Bradley | A | 2018 |
8. RHP Triston McKenzie | N/A | 2019 |
9. LHP Juan Hillman | ROK | 2019 |
10. RHP Cody Anderson | MLB | 2015 |
Additions: LHP Rob Kaminsky, LHP Jayson Aquino
Losses: None
2015 hasn't gone quite the way the Cleveland Indians envisioned it, but there's talent developing at the minor league level.
The Indians have two gifted outfielders that could turn out to be impact major leaguers. Bradley Zimmer (.291, 11 HR, 37 SB) is maybe the fastest-rising prospect in baseball, while Clint Frazier (12 HR, 13 SB) ranks in MLB.com's top 45.
Tyler Naquin (.297, 13 SB) has also enjoyed a fine 2015 campaign.
Cleveland's pitching depth received a significant improvement in the form of left-hander Rob Kaminsky (2.09 ERA) from the St. Louis Cardinals. The Indians also took a flyer on Brady Aiken in the 2015 draft. If Aiken is healthy, he's an elite talent with ace potential.
The Indians have a nice assortment of upside and depth on the farm. If Zimmer, Frazier and Aiken finish 2015 strong, this ranking will improve before the beginning of next season.
16. Tampa Bay Rays

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. SS Willy Adames | A+ | 2018 |
2. LHP Blake Snell | AAA | 2016 |
3. RHP Brent Honeywell | A+ | 2017 |
4. OF Garrett Whitley | ROK | 2019 |
5. SS Daniel Robertson | AA | 2016 |
6. RHP Taylor Guerrieri | AA | 2017 |
7. SS Adrian Rondon | ROK | 2019 |
8. C Justin O'Connor | AA | 2016 |
9. 2B Ryan Brett | AAA | 2015 |
10. 1B Casey Gillaspie | A+ | 2017 |
Additions: RHP Chih-Wei Hu, RHP Alexis Tapia, RHP Eduar Lopez
Losses: None
The Tampa Bay Rays organization hardly ever gets the attention it deserves, but it has quietly assembled a collection of talented minor league prospects.
That includes three shortstops in the top 10, with Willy Adames, Daniel Robertson and Adrian Rondon showing promise thus far in their careers. Adames (.271, 4 HR) is Tampa Bay's top prospect and the most likely to pan out.
Adames is talented, but Tampa Bay's most promising minor league development is the continued success of left-hander Blake Snell and right-hander Brent Honeywell. Snell (10-3, 1.28 ERA) has dominated in 2015, while Honeywell (109 K, 19 BB) has top-tier stuff and command.
With Snell, Honeywell and Adames atop their rankings, the Rays have three impact players in the organization. That gives Tampa Bay the edge over some of the other teams with mediocre farms.
15. Arizona Diamondbacks

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. SS Dansby Swanson | ROK | 2018 |
2. RHP Archie Bradley | MLB/AAA | 2015 |
3. RHP Aaron Blair | AAA | 2015 |
4. RHP Braden Shipley | AA | 2016 |
5. RHP Yoan Lopez | AA | 2016 |
6. LHP Alex Young | ROK | 2018 |
7. INF Brandon Drury | AAA | 2016 |
8. INF Domingo Leyba | A+ | 2018 |
9. OF Peter O'Brien | AAA | 2015 |
10. Wei-Chieh Huang | A | 2018 |
Additions: None
Losses: None
Drafting Dansby Swanson with the first overall pick of the 2015 draft gave the Arizona Diamondbacks a potential superstar. But the rest of the organization, while deep, lacks the multiple impact prospects necessary to move into the top 10.
Swanson is a stud and is already No. 12 on MLB.com's top 100 rankings. He's yet to play a professional game, but Swanson gives Arizona's farm some much-needed credibility with his bat, speed and defensive abilities.
The Diamondbacks also have a host of promising hurlers in the likes of Archie Bradley, Aaron Blair, Braden Shipley, Yoan Lopez and 2015 draftee Alex Young. Bradley's power arm makes him the one to watch, but Shipley, Blair and Lopez each posted a sub-4.00 ERA this season and have the potential to become solid major league starters.
As those young pitchers progress to the majors, Arizona's ranking will only rise. But for now, this is a solid organization that lacks the eye-opening talents that some of the other farms have to offer.
14. New York Mets

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. LHP Steven Matz | MLB | 2015 |
2. OF Michael Conforto | MLB | 2015 |
3. OF Brandon Nimmo | AAA | 2016 |
4. SS Amed Rosario | A+ | 2018 |
5. SS Gavin Cecchini | AA | 2016 |
6. 1B Dominic Smith | A+ | 2017 |
7. RHP Marcos Molina | A+ | 2018 |
8. SS Matt Reynolds | AAA | 2015 |
9. RHP Gabriel Ynoa | AA | 2016 |
10. SS Milton Reyes | ROK | 2019 |
Additions: None
Losses: RHP Michael Fulmer, RHP Luis Cessa, RHP Casey Meisner, RHP Rob Whalen, RHP John Gant
Kudos to Sandy Alderson. The much-maligned New York Mets general manager was able to improve his team's playoff chances without subtracting too much from a solid farm system.
Over the last few years, the Mets have graduated Noah Syndergaard, Jacob deGrom and Zack Wheeler to the big leagues. Lately, left-hander Steven Matz and outfielder Michael Conforto have joined those prospects in Queens.
Matz (2.19 ERA in Triple-A) wasn't considered in the same class as the rest of New York's elite young rotation, but he's pitched his way into the conversation. Although he's on the DL at the moment, Matz was 2-0 with a 1.32 ERA in two major league starts.
Conforto (.297, 12 HR in High-A, Double-A) has become the organization's top hitting talent. He's probably in the big leagues too early, but Conforto's plate discipline is impressive for a young player. Brandon Nimmo (.342 OBP) and Amed Rosario (.263, 11 SB) round out the Mets contingent in MLB.com's top 100.
The Mets are another team that's ranking is hurt by most of its young talent being on the big league roster. But there are still plenty of high-upside players on the farm, which puts the Mets in position to be good for a long, long time.
13. Milwaukee Brewers

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. SS Orlando Arcia | AA | 2016 |
2. OF Brett Phillips | AA | 2017 |
3. OF Trent Clark | ROK | 2019 |
4. OF Domingo Santana | AAA | 2015 |
5. OF Tyrone Taylor | AA | 2016 |
6. SS Gilbert Lara | ROK | 2019 |
7. OF Clint Coulter | A+ | 2017 |
8. RHP Devin Williams | A | 2018 |
9. RHP Jorge Lopez | AA | 2016 |
10. LHP Kodi Medeiros | A | 2019 |
Additions: OF Brett Phillips, OF Domingo Santana, RHP Zach Davies, LHP Josh Hader, RHP Adrian Houser, Yhonathan Barrios
Losses: None
A season in last place is always a bitter pill to swallow, but the silver lining of the Milwaukee Brewers' 2015 season may have just occurred at the trade deadline.
General manager Doug Melvin traded outfielders Carlos Gomez and Gerardo Parra, right-hander Mike Fiers and infielder Aramis Ramirez to significantly improve his team's future outlook.
By packaging Gomez and Fiers together, Melvin was able to acquire arguably the best prospect to change teams in outfielder Brett Phillips (.319, 16 HR, 15 SB). The 21-year-old can do it all and should quickly ease Brewers fans out of the Gomez era.
Because of Phillips' elite talent, powerful slugger Domingo Santana (.321, 16 HR) may seem like a throw-in in that deal. But Santana has as much raw power as any player in the minors and could hit 30 homers in the big leagues one day.
With elite shortstop prospect Orlando Arcia and first-round pick Trent Clark already in the organization, Milwaukee now has a farm system with multiple impact talents and much more depth than it had before the season.
12. Texas Rangers

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. 3B/OF Joey Gallo | AAA | 2015 |
2. OF Nomar Mazara | AA | 2016 |
3. RHP Dillon Tate | A- | 2017 |
4. OF Lewis Brinson | A+ | 2017 |
5. RHP Luis Ortiz | A | 2018 |
6. RHP Alex Gonzalez | AAA | 2015 |
7. OF/3B Ryan Cordell | AA | 2017 |
8. RHP Mike Matuella | N/A | 2018 |
9. RHP Luke Jackson | AAA | 2015 |
10. OF Eric Jenkins | ROK | 2019 |
Additions: None
Losses: RHP Jake Thompson, C Jorge Alfaro, OF Nick Williams, RHP Jerad Eickhoff, RHP Alec Asher, C Tomas Telis, LHP Cody Ege
Yes, the Texas Rangers gave up a great package of young talent to get Cole Hamels. But Texas had enough depth on the farm to pull off a blockbuster deal and still remain in the top half of MLB systems.
A big reason for that is general manager John Daniels' move to acquire Hamels without parting with his two key prospects: Joey Gallo and Nomar Mazara.
Gallo's ability is already well documented around the league. He's a prolific power hitter with improving plate discipline. MLB.com ranks him as the No. 8 prospect in baseball and he's nearly ready for everyday duty in Texas.
Unlike Gallo, who has had eyes on him for years now, Mazara has only suddenly worked his way into the top 20. But the 20-year-old is way ahead of schedule in Double-A, which is a testament to his ability.
Losing Jorge Alfaro, Jake Thompson and Nick Williams put a dent in Texas' depth, but first-round pick Dillon Tate, outfielder Lewis Brinson and right-hander Luis Ortiz give the club five prospects in the top 100.
The Rangers have taken a step back over the last few seasons, but Hamels gives them a chance to compete for a wild-card spot in 2015. The future remains bright despite the departure of three promising youngsters.
11. New York Yankees

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. RHP Luis Severino | AAA | 2015 |
2. OF Aaron Judge | AAA | 2016 |
3. SS Jorge Mateo | A | 2018 |
4. 1B Greg Bird | AAA | 2016 |
5. RHP James Kaprielian | N/A | 2017 |
6. 2B Robert Refsnyder | AAA | 2015 |
7. C Gary Sanchez | AAA | 2016 |
8. 3B Eric Jagielo | AA | 2017 |
9. LHP Ian Clarkin | A+ | 2017 |
10. LHP Jacob Lindgren | MLB | 2015 |
Additions: None
Losses: RHP Jose Ramirez, OF Ramon Flores
As shocking as it was to see the New York Yankees not pursue any upgrades at the deadline, it's refreshing to see the win-now club make decisions with a forward-thinking strategy.
General manager Brian Cashman has four prospects that figure to be a big part of New York's future: RHP Luis Severino, outfielder Aaron Judge, shortstop Jorge Mateo and first baseman Greg Bird.
Severino (No. 16 on MLB.com) is on the verge of a big league call-up, Judge (No. 21) is a physical specimen with 30-homer capability, Mateo is New York's shortstop of the future and Bird is Mark Teixeira's logical replacement at first base. With those four youngsters, the Yankees have a firm grip on the future while succeeding in the present.
The rest of the organization's top 10 is rounded out with depth. First-round pick James Kaprielian is an upside arm, infielder Rob Refsnyder has hit at every level of the minors and catcher Gary Sanchez has a laser and pop behind the plate.
The Yankees could have used a starter at the deadline, but sometimes the best moves are the ones you don't make. This was likely one of those cases.
10. Philadelphia Phillies

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. SS J.P. Crawford | AA | 2016 |
2. RHP Aaron Nola | MLB | 2015 |
3. RHP Jake Thompson | AA | 2015 |
4. OF Nick Williams | AA | 2016 |
5. C Jorge Alfaro | AA | 2016 |
6. SS Cornelius Randolph | ROK | 2019 |
7. OF Roman Quinn | AA | 2016 |
8. RHP Franklyn Kilome | A- | 2019 |
9. RHP Zach Eflin | AA | 2016 |
10. 2B Scott Kingery | A | 2018 |
Additions: RHP Jake Thompson, OF Nick Williams, C Jorge Alfaro, RHP Nick Pivetta, RHP Jerad Eickhoff, RHP Alec Asher, RHP Jimmy Cordero, RHP Alberto Tirado
Losses: None
Rejoice, Phillies fans! After a year of laboring, general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. aced the deadline by acquiring three fantastic prospects for Cole Hamels.
Philadelphia couldn't pry Joey Gallo or Nomar Mazara away from the Texas Rangers, but right-hander Jake Thompson, outfielder Nick Williams and catcher Jorge Alfaro comprise a nice consolation package. Thompson (No. 60 on MLB.com) is a hard thrower with front-line stuff, Williams (No. 64) can hit, run and defend and Alfaro has the power arm and bat that accompany a top catching prospect.
With the fantastic J.P. Crawford (No. 6), right-hander Aaron Nola (No. 22) and first-round pick Cornelius Randolph (No. 99), the Phillies now have six prospects in the top 100. Six. Hamels did plenty for the organization, and his last act for his old club was being a part of improving its future.
Amaro Jr. still has work to do to fully rebuild the Phillies, but the package he acquired for Hamels is a great start.
9. Washington Nationals

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. RHP Lucas Giolito | AA | 2016 |
2. SS Trea Turner | AAA | 2016 |
3. RHP Joe Ross | AAA/MLB | 2015 |
4. RHP Reynaldo Lopez | A+ | 2017 |
5. INF Wilmer Difo | AA | 2017 |
6. RHP Erick Fedde | A- | 2018 |
7. RHP A.J. Cole | AAA | 2015 |
8. OF Victor Robles | A- | 2019 |
9. C Jackson Reetz | A- | 2018 |
10. C Pedro Severino | AA | 2016 |
Additions: None
Losses: RHP Nick Pivetta
The Washington Nationals have only three prospects in MLB.com's top 100, but those youngsters are as elite as they come.
Right-hander Lucas Giolito (No. 3 on MLB.com) is the headliner. The 21-year-old is the best pitching prospect in the minors due to a devastating fastball-curveball combination. Throw in an improving changeup to keep left-handers at bay and command of all three offerings, and it's easy to see why Giolito is so highly regarded.
The Nationals also have one of the better shortstop prospects in baseball in Trea Turner. Turner (No. 13) is the complete opposite of current Washington shortstop and free-agent-to-be Ian Desmond. The 22-year-old hits for a high average and is capable of stealing 30 bases at the big league level. He'll likely be the Nats starting shortstop in 2016.
Finally, Joe Ross (No. 33) is already paying dividends in Washington and has likely pitched his way completely out of the minors. Both Ross and Turner were added in the Wil Myers three-team trade this offseason.
Reynaldo Lopez, Wilmer Difo and A.J. Cole are promising youngsters that add depth to the organization. But Washington's ranking is all about its trio of future stars, which gives it the edge over other farm systems.
8. Houston Astros

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. SS Alex Bregman | A+ | 2017 |
2. RHP Mark Appel | AAA | 2015 |
3. OF Daz Cameron | ROK | 2018 |
4. OF Kyle Tucker | ROK | 2018 |
5. RHP Vincent Velasquez | MLB | 2015 |
6. 1B A.J. Reed | AA | 2017 |
7. RHP Michael Feliz | AA | 2017 |
8. RHP Francis Martes | A+ | 2018 |
9. OF Derek Fisher | A+ | 2017 |
10. RHP Joe Musgrove | AA | 2017 |
Additions: None
Losses: OF Brett Phillips, OF Domingo Santana, C Jacob Nottingham, LHP Josh Hader, RHP Adrian Houser, RHP Daniel Mengden
With shrewd draft choices and trades over the years, the Houston Astros were able to part with multiple prospects to acquire Scott Kazmir, Carlos Gomez and Mike Fiers.
The loss of outfielder Brett Phillips will sting, as he's looking more and more like an All-Star every day. Domingo Santana and Jacob Nottingham have their flaws, but both figure to be dependable everyday players somewhere down the line.
But Houston snagged three of the top six draft prospects in its first three picks of the 2015 draft, which helped make general manager Jeff Luhnow's decision a little easier. Shortstop Alex Bregman (No. 27 on MLB.com), outfielder Daz Cameron (No. 62) and Kyle Tucker (No. 65) have replaced the names Houston included in its deadline deals.
The Astros also have two high-risk, high-reward arms in Mark Appel and Vincent Velasquez. There is risk with both, but if they pan out, Houston could add two more front-line arms to the fold.
Considering the moves the team made and the young talent in the majors, being ranked this high is promising for Houston's future plans.
7. Atlanta Braves

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. INF Hector Olivera | AAA | 2015 |
2. SS Ozhaino Albies | A | 2018 |
3. RHP Matt Wisler | MLB | 2015 |
4. RHP Touki Toussaint | A | 2018 |
5. LHP Kolby Allard | ROK | 2019 |
6. RHP Tyrell Jenkins | AAA | 2016 |
7. LHP Manny Banuelos | MLB | 2015 |
8. LHP Max Fried | A | 2018 |
9. RHP Lucas Sims | AA | 2017 |
10. 3B Rio Ruiz | AA | 2016 |
Additions: INF Hector Olivera, RHP Zachary Bird, RHP Rob Whalen, RHP John Gant
Losses: INF Jose Peraza
The Atlanta Braves haven't been very good in 2015, but president of baseball operations John Hart still might be worth a vote for MLB Executive of the Year.
Atlanta's farm system was in dire straits before the season, but Hart expedited the rebuilding process by trading Jason Heyward, Craig Kimbrel, Justin Upton and Evan Gattis. Of the organization's top 30 prospects, a whopping 15 have been acquired during Hart's regime.
Hart wasn't exempt from criticism at the deadline, as Braves fans weren't happy about parting with Alex Wood and top preseason prospect Jose Peraza. But while older, Hector Olivera is a significant upgrade over Peraza and is the impact bat the Braves have been looking for.
Atlanta's farm system is all about starting pitching. Matt Wisler, Touki Toussaint, Kolby Allard, Tyrell Jenkins, Manny Banuelos, Max Fried and Lucas Sims are all in the Braves' top 10. Offensively, middle infielder Ozhaino Albies has really come on and made Peraza expendable.
Olivera gives Hart and the Braves a potential star, but the Braves still don't have many jaw-dropping talents. What they do have is extreme depth, which is enough to push them into the top 10.
6. Pittsburgh Pirates

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. RHP Tyler Glasnow | AAA | 2016 |
2. OF Austin Meadows | A+ | 2017 |
3. 1B Josh Bell | AA | 2016 |
4. RHP Jameson Taillon | N/A | 2016 |
5. 2B Alen Hanson | AAA | 2015 |
6. C Reese McGuire | A+ | 2017 |
7. OF Harold Ramirez | A+ | 2017 |
8. SS Kevin Newman | A- | 2018 |
9. 3B Ke'Bryan Hayes | ROK | 2019 |
10. SS Cole Tucker | A | 2018 |
Additions: None
Losses: SS JaCoby Jones, RHP Adrian Sampson, LHP Jayson Aquino, RHP Yhonathan Barrios
Although sometimes overlooked, the Pittsburgh Pirates have a talented and deep farm system.
The gem of the system is right-hander Tyler Glasnow (No. 9 on MLB.com). The 6'8", 21-year-old has already advanced to Triple-A, and his fastball-curveball combination is only exceeded by Washington's Lucas Giolito. Fellow right-hander Jameson Taillon is also a big-time pitching talent, but he'll need to overcome an extensive injury past to reach his full potential.
In terms of position players, the Pirates have plenty of future big leaguers across various levels. Outfielder Austin Meadows (No. 28), infielders Josh Bell (No. 38) and Alen Hanson (No. 79) and catcher Reese McGuire have developed nicely in the minor leagues.
Pittsburgh has an enviable blend of quality and quantity. Glasnow, Meadows and a healthy Taillon give the Pirates the edge over an Atlanta Braves team that lacks some star power.
5. Colorado Rockies

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. SS Brendan Rodgers | ROK | 2019 |
2. RHP Jon Gray | AAA | 2015 |
3. OF David Dahl | AA | 2017 |
4. RHP Jeff Hoffman | AA | 2017 |
5. 3B Ryan McMahon | A+ | 2017 |
6. 2B Forest Wall | A- | 2017 |
7. RHP Mike Nikorak | ROK | 2019 |
8. LHP Kyle Freeland | ROK | 2016 |
9. OF Raimel Tapia | A+ | 2017 |
10. RHP Miguel Castro | AAA | 2017 |
Additions: RHP Jeff Hoffman, RHP Miguel Castro, RHP Jesus Tinoco
Losses: None
The Colorado Rockies decided to finally pull the trigger on a Troy Tulowitzki blockbuster, which helped push the organization's farm system into the top five.
In exchange for Tulo, the Rockies acquired right-handers Jeff Hoffman, Miguel Castro and Jesus Tinoco. Hoffman was the ninth overall pick in the 2014 draft and is already facing Double-A hitters. Castro and Tinoco are more risky prospects, but both have elite arm talent that could translate into a front-line starter or closer.
Hoffman and Castro have entered a top 10 that includes first-round pick Brendan Rodgers (No. 11 on MLB.com), Jon Gray (No. 35), David Dahl (No. 56), Ryan McMahon (No. 59) and Forest Wall (No. 95). Mike Nikorak, Kyle Freeland and Raimel Tapia aren't too far away from breaking into that top-100 class.
Colorado didn't have to trade Tulowitzki but received a favorable haul for its former star nonetheless. The future is bright in Colorado with plenty of talent ascending to the big leagues.
4. Chicago Cubs

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. C Kyle Schwarber | MLB | 2015 |
2. SS Gleyber Torres | A | 2018 |
3. OF Billy McKinney | AA | 2017 |
4. RHP Carl Edwards Jr. | AAA | 2016 |
5. RHP Duane Underwood | A+ | 2017 |
6. OF Albert Almora | AA | 2016 |
7. OF Ian Happ | A | 2018 |
8. RHP Pierce Johnson | AA | 2016 |
9. OF Donnie Dowees | A- | 2018 |
10. OF Mark Zagunis | A+ | 2017 |
Additions: None
Losses: RHP Ivan Pineyro, SS Elliot Soto
With Kris Bryant, Addison Russell, Jorge Soler and Javier Baez graduating from the Chicago Cubs farm system, there should have been some sort of decline in the organization's ranking.
But any drop-off in talent level hasn't been noticeable, as the Cubs are still blessed with one of the top systems in baseball.
Five of Chicago's top 10 prospects are also in MLB.com's top 100. Catcher Kyle Schwarber (No. 7), one of the most promising minor league hitters of 2015, has joined the Cubs, while Gleyber Torres (No. 36), Billy McKinney (No. 41), Carl Edwards Jr. (No. 66) and Duane Underwood (No. 80) give the organization tremendous value for future call-ups or trades.
The Cubs boasted baseball's premier farm system before the season, but promoting so many young players to the big leagues has understandably taken away from it. Still, Chicago's future is in phenomenal hands with young talent already contributing and more on the way.
3. Minnesota Twins

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. OF Byron Buxton | MLB | 2015 |
2. 3B Miguel Sano | MLB | 2015 |
3. RHP Jose Berrios | AAA | 2015 |
4. LHP Tyler Jay | A+ | 2018 |
5. SS Jorge Polanco | AAA/MLB | 2015 |
6. SS Nick Gordon | A | 2018 |
7. 1B/OF Max Kepler | AA | 2017 |
8. RHP Kohl Stewart | A+ | 2017 |
9. RHP Alex Meyer | AAA | 2015 |
10. LHP Stephen Gonsalves | A+ | 2017 |
Additions: None
Losses: RHP Chih-Wei Hu, RHP Alexis Tapia
With Byron Buxton and Miguel Sano still holding prospect status, the Minnesota Twins have the impact talents and depth that a top-five system must have.
Buxton (No. 1 on MLB.com) and Sano (No. 4) will grab most of the attention, and rightfully so. Buxton has been a premier talent since he was drafted in 2012 due to his five-tool skill set, and Sano's complete offensive game has drawn comparisons to a young Miguel Cabrera.
But Minnesota's spoils of riches don't end there. Right-hander Jose Berrios (No. 26), first-round pick Tyler Jay (No. 76), infielders Jorge Polanco (No. 89) and Nick Gordon (No. 91) are all in the top 100. Right-handers Kohl Stewart and Alex Meyer were top 100 prospects before the season began, and infielder/outfielder Max Kepler, lefty Stephen Gonsalves and outfielder Adam Brett Walker II could be by season's end.
When Buxton and Sano graduate sometime in 2015, Minnesota will probably fall out of the top five. But even without those two stars, the Twins have a top-10 system with several prospects ready to play important roles in the future.
2. Boston Red Sox

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. 2B Yoan Moncada | A | 2017 |
2. 3B Rafael Devers | A | 2018 |
3. OF Manuel Margot | AA | 2017 |
4. LHP Brian Johnson | AAA | 2015 |
5. LHP Henry Owens | AAA | 2015 |
6. OF Andrew Benintendi | A- | 2017 |
7. SS Javier Guerra | A | 2018 |
8. RHP Michael Kopech | A | 2018 |
9. RHP Anderson Espinoza | ROK | 2019 |
10. SS Deven Marrero | AAA | 2016 |
Additions: None
Losses: None
The Boston Red Sox have suffered through an embarrassing 2015 season, but good times are on the horizon with a deep and talented prospect class.
Headlined by infielder Yoan Moncada (No. 10 on MLB.com), the Red Sox have seven prospects in the top 100. Moncada is a phenomenal talent, as evidenced by the price tag the Red Sox paid for him earlier this season.
After Moncada, third baseman Rafael Devers (No. 15) and Manuel Margot (No. 31) give the Red Sox an impressive collection of position players. On the mound, left-handers Brian Johnson (No. 47) and Henry Owens (No. 48) are on the cusp of permanent big league stays.
Boston probably has the deepest system in baseball with prospects ready to hit the big leagues in each of the next four years. If the front office can spend wisely in free agency to put a team around its talented core, the Red Sox aren't too far away from returning to the postseason.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers

TOP 10 PROSPECTS
Name | Level | ETA |
1. SS Corey Seager | AAA | 2015 |
2. LHP Julio Urias | AA | 2016 |
3. RHP Jose De Leon | AA | 2016 |
4. INF Jose Peraza | AAA | 2015 |
5. RHP Grant Holmes | A | 2018 |
6. RHP Walker Buehler | N/A | 2018 |
7. OF Alex Verdugo | A | 2018 |
8. RHP Chris Anderson | AA | 2016 |
9. 1B/OF Cody Bellinger | A+ | 2018 |
10. RHP Yadier Alvarez | N/A | 2019 |
Additions: INF Jose Peraza
Losses: INF Hector Olivera, RHP Zachary Bird, RHP Victor Araujo, RHP Jeff Brigham, RHP Kevin Guzman
It's hard not to give the Los Angeles Dodgers the No. 1 spot in these rankings with talents like Corey Seager and Julio Urias inching toward the big leagues.
Seager (No. 2 on MLB.com) is a premier hitting talent, mashing at every level throughout his minor league career. Urias (No. 5) is only 18 but figures to break into the majors as a teenager with advanced stuff, command and poise.
But the Dodgers are more than those two potential stars. Right-handers Jose de Leon (No. 29), Grant Holmes (No. 67) and Walker Buehler have fantastic stuff and profile as front-line starters. In a flurry of moves to improve the major league product, L.A. was still able to add Jose Peraza (No. 30) from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for a package that included infielder Hector Olivera.
Seager and Urias will be in the big leagues by 2016 at the latest, making the Dodgers temporary place-holders at the top of this list. But for now, there's not a team with more impact at the minor league level than L.A.
Prospect lists courtesy of MLB.com.