As a cap to our offseason prospect rankings, we line up the minor league talent in every organization from 1-30.
Baseball America’s annual organization talent rankings reflect the total worth of each farm system’s prospects (all players who haven’t exceeded 130 at-bats, 50 innings or 30 relief appearances in the major leagues; big league service time isn’t a factor). The rankings are a product of BA editors, and John Manuel wrote the capsules for each team.
Each club’s Top 10 Prospects list has been updated to reflect offseason acquisitions and adjustments made for our Top 100 Prospects list (Top 100 rank is in parentheses).
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Gregory Polanco, of (10)
2. Jameson Taillon, rhp (22)
3. Tyler Glasnow, rhp (46)
4. Austin Meadows, of (49)
5. Nick Kingham, rhp (64)
6. Alen Hanson, ss (76)
7. Reese McGuire, c (81)
8. Josh Bell, of
9. Harold Ramirez, of
10. Luis Heredia, rhp
1. Pittsburgh Pirates
2013 Rank: 7.
2012 Rank: 11.
How They Got Here: Team president Frank Coonelly and general manager Neal Huntington rebuilt the Pirates through research and development. They spent nearly $29 million on the 2010-11 drafts and have invested heavily in the international market as well, producing impact young big leaguers who led the team to the playoffs for the first time in 21 years and a perch atop our talent rankings.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: OF Willy Garcia doesn’t control the strike zone but has the power, athleticism and arm to fit the right-field profile.
2014 Rookies: The proximity to the major leagues of top prospects OF Gregory Polanco and RHP Jameson Taillon help make this the game’s top farm system. Both should emerge as key big league pieces sometime in 2014, as could RHP Nick Kingham and SS Alen Hanson. RHPs Brandon Cumpton and Stolmy Pimentel also figure to see time in Pittsburgh.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Xander Bogaerts, ss/3b (2)
2. Henry Owens, lhp (40)
3. Jackie Bradley, of (50)
4. Blake Swihart, c (73)
5. Garin Cecchini, 3b (74)
6. Mookie Betts, 2b (75)
7. Allen Webster, rhp (88)
8. Trey Ball, lhp (89)
9. Brandon Workman, rhp
10. Matt Barnes, rhp
2. Boston Red Sox
2013 Rank: 6.
2012 Rank: 9
How They Got Here: Boston attacked the draft under the old rules aggressively, investing heavily and seeing benefits from their $11 million 2011 class, which produced five members of the system’s Top 10. Improved efforts on the international front yielded top prospect SS Xander Bogaerts.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: 3B Rafael Devers and OF Manuel Margot hope to keep the formerly fallow international program humming. Devers signed for $1.5 million last year and impressed in instructional league, and he’ll make his debut in 2014.
2014 Rookies: Bogaerts takes over the shortstop gig after Stephen Drew wasn’t re-signed. OF Jackie Bradley was battling reclamation project Grady Sizemore for the center-field job, while righty RHP Allen Webster should be first in line if the big league rotation needs reinforcements.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Byron Buxton, of (1)
2. Miguel Sano, 3b (6)
3. Alex Meyer, rhp (45)
4. Kohl Stewart, rhp (52)
5. J.O. Berrios, rhp
6. Lewis Thorpe, lhp
7. Trevor May, rhp
8. Danny Santana, ss/2b
9. Jorge Polanco, ss/2b
10. Eddie Rosario, 2b/of
3. Minnesota Twins
2013 Rank: 10.
2012 Rank: 20.
How They Got Here: The Twins have gotten what they paid for, spending top dollar on higher-drafted players and top Latin American talent. Top prospect OF Byron Buxton was the No. 2 overall pick in 2012, and Miguel Sano got $3.9 million in 2009; his elbow surgery this year shouldn’t dim his long-term outlook. The Twins also have traded for power arms to add pitching depth.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: 1B Kennys Vargas, initially signed as a nondrafted free agent out of Puerto Rico, has tremendous raw power and surprising feel for hitting. He needs to polish his all-around game, but his bat could carry him.
2014 Rookies: The Twins aren’t counting on C Josmil Pinto, but he should earn plenty of at-bats in a time-share with veteran Kurt Suzuki. RHP Mike Tonkin could break into the bullpen sooner than later.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Javier Baez, ss (5)
2. Kris Bryant, 3b (8)
3. C.J. Edwards, rhp (28)
4. Albert Almora, of (36)
5. Jorge Soler, of (41)
6. Pierce Johnson, rhp (87)
7. Arismendy Alcantara, 2b/ss (100)
8. Jeimer Candelario, 3b
9. Dan Vogelbach, 1b
10. Arodys Vizcaino, rhp
4. Chicago Cubs
2013 Rank: 12.
2012 Rank: 14.
How They Got Here: The Cubs have hoarded power bats in the draft with SS Javier Baez and 3B Kris Bryant as well as internationally with $30 million man OF Jorge Soler. The Cubs have added most of their pitching via trades, including RHPs C.J. Edwards, Arodys Vizcaino and Corey Black.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: The Cubs paid RHP Jen-Ho Tseng $1.625 million in July 2013 after an up-and-down amateur career in Taiwan. The 6-foot-1, 200-pound 19-year-old looked healthy and improved in spring training, with a three-pitch mix that should allow him to make a full-season roster.
2014 Rookies: Baez started playing second base in spring training and should hit his way to the North Side in the second half of the season. A year after he was supposed to take over as closer, Japanese import RHP Kyuji Fujikawa was working his way back from Tommy John surgery and should work his way into the bullpen mix if he is back to his previous form.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Carlos Correa, ss (7)
2. George Springer, of (18)
3. Mark Appel, rhp (39)
4. Mike Foltynewicz, rhp (59)
5. Lance McCullers Jr
6. Jon Singleton, 1b (82)
7. Vince Velasquez, rhp
8. Domingo Santana, of
9. Michael Feliz, rhp
10. Asher Wojciechowski, rhp
5. Houston Astros
2013 Rank: 9.
2012 Rank: 26.
How They Got Here: No team ever has torn down a big league team (admittedly, a bad one) as thoroughly as the Astros, who have traded players from Michael Bourn and Hunter Pence to Bud Norris and Wandy Rodriguez for prospects. All of those prospects have given the organization significant depth, but Houston has drafted most of its high-impact, potential cornerstone talent, such as 2012 No. 1 pick SS Carlos Correa and 2013 No. 1 RHP Mark Appel.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Jandel Gustave is another example of the Astros’ ability to develop velocity. Gustave has bumped up his fastball to the 95-98 mph range with a fairly clean delivery.
2014 Rookies: He won’t start the season in Houston, but OF George Springer is too good to be down in the minors for long. 1B Jon Singleton could join him in the lineup if he can overcome his off-field issues (he spoke to reporters in spring training about an addiction to marijuana). An impressive spring could catapult RHP Mike Foltynewicz to the majors for the second half.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Austin Hedges, c (27)
2. Matt Wisler, rhp (44)
3. Max Fried, lhp (53)
4. Hunter Renfroe, of (80)
5. Casey Kelly, rhp
6. Rymer Liriano, of
7. Jace Peterson, ss
8. Burch Smith, rhp
9. Keyvius Sampson, rhp
10. Joe Ross, rhp
6. San Diego Padres
2013 Rank: 14.
2012 Rank: 3.
How They Got Here: San Diego spent aggressively under the old draft rules, including $3 million for top prospect C Austin Hedges in 2011. Hedges has plenty of impressive arms to handle behind the plate, as the Padres have drafted such pitchers as LHP Max Fried and RHPs Joe Ross, Zach Eflin and Walker Weickel. Still, relative bargain RHP Matt Wisler may be the best arm of the bunch.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: LHP Juan Oramas had Tommy John surgery in 2012 but came back with three average pitches, pitching well in Double-A and winter ball in his native Mexico. He could be a rotation option, as early as 2014.
2014 Rookies: 1B Tommy Medica had a strong September and should earn at-bats at first base (and possibly left field) in San Diego this season, at least in a platoon. RHPs Casey Kelly and Burch Smith already have seen big league time, and if healthy, both should be able to contribute for manager Bud Black. Wisler, who has yet to pitch past Double-A, could join them in the second half.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Oscar Taveras, of (3)
2. Carlos Martinez, rhp (31)
3. Kolten Wong, 2b (58)
4. Stephen Piscotty, of (70)
5. Marco Gonzalez, lhp
6. Tim Cooney, lhp
7. Alex Reyes, rhp
8. James Ramsey, of
9. Rob Kaminsky, lhp
10. Randal Grichuk, of
7. St. Louis Cardinals
2013 Rank: 1.
2012 Rank: 10.
How They Got Here: Fresh off its second BA Organization of the Year award in three seasons, St. Louis fell from the top spot only because it graduated so much impact talent. Three of its most exciting players—top prospect OF Oscar Taveras and RHPs Carlos Martinez and Alex Reyes—are products of its improved international department.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: The Cardinals believe in the athleticism and power/speed potential of SS/OF Kenny Peoples-Walls, and hope a shift to center field relaxes him at the plate and helps him make consistent contact.
2014 Rookies: Martinez still is considered a prospect for our rankings (which do not consider service time), but he’s no longer rookie-eligible. 2B Kolten Wong will open the season as the everyday starter.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Kyle Zimmer, rhp (23)
2. Yordano Ventura, rhp (26)
3. Raul A. Mondesi, ss (47)
4. Jorge Bonifacio, of (90)
5. Miguel Almonte, rhp
6. Sean Manaea, lhp
7. Hunter Dozier, 3b
8. Bubba Starling, of
9. Jason Adam, rhp
10. Christian Binford, rhp
8. Kansas City Royals
2013 Rank: 18.
2012 Rank: 2.
How They Got Here: The Royals have drafted early for a long time—their first-round pick has come in the first half of the first round every year since 1995. In recent years they have spent for top talents such as RHP Kyle Zimmer and raw players such as OF Bubba Starling. Rene Francisco’s international scouting department has yielded dividends both on the mound and in the field.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: He’s a ways off, but 1B/OF Samir Duenez already owns an all-field approach, bat speed and a feel for hitting.
2014 Rookies: No big league starter threw harder in 2013 than RHP Yordano Ventura, who earned a rotation spot with a scintillating spring. LHPs Chris Dwyer and Donnie Joseph should be on the Omaha-K.C. shuttle.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Rougned Odor, 2b (42)
2. Jorge Alfaro, c (54)
3. Joey Gallo, 3b (60)
4. Nick Williams, of (97)
5. Michael Choice, of (98)
6. Alex Gonzalez, rhp
7. Luis Sardinas, ss
8. Luke Jackson, rhp
9. Travis Demeritte, ss/3b
10. Ronald Guzman, 1b
9. Texas Rangers
2013 Rank: 3.
2012 Rank: 1.
How They Got Here: Texas’ international aggressiveness, particularly in the Dominican Republic and Venezuela, is well documented and has proven successful. Texas hasn’t been as successful drafting, especially hitters, but has a chance to break that streak with a high-ceiling group that played together at low Class A Hickory in 2013.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Jose Leclerc has made one start as a pro and the Rangers pondered a shift to the rotation in 2014 after striking out 11.7 per nine out of the Hickory bullpen. They left him in the pen but he had a strong spring.
2014 Rookies: It’s unlikely the Rangers will have a rookie whose season will match LHP Martin Perez in 2013 or Yu Darvish in 2012. But OF Michael Choice, acquired from division-rival Oakland in an offseason trade, will get at-bats and is ready after a solid Triple-A season. 2B Rougned Odor, the club’s top prospect, could play his way into the second-base mix after Jurickson Profar’s injury.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Noah Syndergaard, rhp (16)
2. Travis d’Arnaud, c (38)
3. Rafael Montero, rhp (68)
4. Dominic Smith, 1b (92)
5. Kevin Plawecki, c/1b
6. Wilmer Flores, 2b/3b
7. Amed Rosario, ss
8. Brandon Nimmo, of
9. Gavin Cecchini, ss
10. Jake deGrom, rhp
10. New York Mets
2013 Rank: 16.
2012 Rank: 25.
How They Got Here: New York’s big league struggles have had one positive effect: more prospects. The Mets have focused on younger hitters in the draft, while acquiring top arms such as RHPs Zach Wheeler and Noah Syndergaard in trades for Carlos Beltran and R.A. Dickey. After plenty of hype last decade, the international program actually may produce players who help in New York.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Rob Whalen’s fastball exhibits good life and low 90s velocity, and his ability to throw it for strikes should help him move quickly and stay in a rotation role.
2014 Rookies: 2B/3B Wilmer Flores looks ready for a big league look, though his position remains an enigma. He could see time as the game’s slowest shortstop. RHP Rafael Montero survived Triple-A Las Vegas with premium command, positioning him to earn big league innings.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Jonathan Gray, rhp (12)
2. Eddie Butler, rhp (24)
3. Rosell Herrera, ss (86)
4. David Dahl, of (94)
5. Kyle Parker, 1b/of
6. Chad Bettis, rhp
7. Tom Murphy, c
8. Ryan McMahon, 3b
9. Trevor Story, ss
10. Raimel Tapia, of
11. Colorado Rockies
2013 Rank: 21.
2012 Rank: 17.
How They Got Here: Colorado has traditionally leaned on its international scouts for arms, from Ubaldo Jimenez to Jhoulys Chacin, but college draft picks RHPs Eddie Butler and Jonathan Gray hope to turn the franchise’s historic pitching struggles around. Meanwhile, Latin American prospects keep bubbling up through the system.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Johendi Jiminian flashes two above-average pitches with his fastball and power breaking ball. His raw delivery might push him to a bullpen eventually, but his arm strength and projectable frame intrigue.
2014 Rookies: RHP Chad Bettis shifts to the bullpen and could emerge as a closer option. Butler and Gray could pitch their way to Denver if they repeat their 2013 performances. 1B Kyle Parker could push for a big league spot if veteran Justin Morneau falters.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Dylan Bundy, rhp (15)
2. Kevin Gausman, rhp (20)
3. Eduardo Rodriguez, lhp (65)
4. Hunter Harvey, rhp
5. Jonathan Schoop, 2b
6. Tim Berry, lhp
7. Henry Urrutia, of
8. Mike Wright, rhp
9. Michael Ohlman, c
10. Suk-Min Yoon, rhp
12. Baltimore Orioles
2013 Rank: 17.
2012 Rank: 21.
How They Got Here: The Orioles have had success acquiring power arms, using first-rounders on pitchers in 2011 (Dylan Bundy), 2012 (Kevin Gausman) and 2013 (Hunter Harvey), as well as later in the draft (Tim Berry, Mike Wright) and internationally (Venezuelan LHP Eduardo Rodriguez). The lack of depth of hitters and poor track record in the Dominican Republic keep Baltimore out of the top 10.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: LHP Stephen Tarpley shined as a freshman at Southern California before transferring to junior college and entering the 2013 draft. He has a quick arm, athleticism and a fastball/slider combination that could keep him in a rotation.
2014 Rookies: Gausman should play an important rotation role after nearly exhausting his eligibility last year. 2B/3B Jonathan Schoop had a strong spring, and Manny Machado’s recovery from knee surgery makes it likely Schoop will open the year in Baltimore.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Masahiro Tanaka, rhp (4)
2. Gary Sanchez, c (35)
3. Slade Heathcott, of
4. Mason Williams, of
5. J.R. Murphy, c
6. Eric Jagielo, 3b
7. Aaron Judge, of
8. Ian Clarkin, lhp
9. Greg Bird, 1b
10. Luis Severino, rhp
13. New York Yankees
2013 Rank: 11.
2012 Rank: 13.
How They Got Here: The signing of RHP Masahiro Tanaka significantly boosts the Yankees in our rankings, though that acquisition masks a down year from the system last year at the upper levels. New York’s volume approach internationally, plus three first-rounders in a potentially strong 2013 draft, infused talent to the lower levels.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Bryan Mitchell has won this before. Still just 22, he remains on of the organization’s most tantalizing arms with two plus pitches at his best. The Yankees hope added maturity will help him translate big stuff into stronger results.
2014 Rookies: Tanaka plugs right into the front of the rotation. Role players such as LHPs Freddy Lewis and Vidal Nuno and C J.R. Murphy should play minor roles on an older team under pressure to win now.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Joc Pederson, of (34)
2. Corey Seager, ss (37)
3. Julio Urias, lhp (51)
4. Zach Lee, rhp (95)
5. Chris Anderson, rhp
6. Chris Withrow, rhp
7. Erisbel Arruebarrena, ss
8. Alexander Guerrero, 2b
9. Chris Reed, lhp
10. Jose Dominguez, rhp
14. Los Angeles Dodgers
2013 Rank: 19.
2012 Rank: 24.
How They Got Here: The Dodgers started acting like a big-market team again and have been rewarded with more than just Yasiel Puig. They spent in the draft for the likes of OF Joc Pederson and SS Corey Seager and have invested heavily internationally, with Puig and 17-year-old LHP Julio Urias the biggest keys.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Zach Bird has athleticism, an ideal pitcher’s body (6-foot-4, 205 pounds), and the hand speed to manipulate his fastball and spin a breaking ball. He’s raw but an exciting arm with upside.
2014 Rookies: Pederson will open the season in the minors but should be ready if the Dodgers need him in the outfield. 2B Alex Guerrero and fellow Cuban SS Erisbel Arruebarrena both figure to get big league time, while RHPs Chris Withrow and Jose Dominguez factor into the bullpen.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Aaron Sanchez, rhp (32)
2. Marcus Stroman, rhp (55)
3. D.J. Davis, of
4. Mitch Nay, 3b
5. Franklin Barreto, 3b
6. Daniel Norris, lhp
7. Roberto Osuna, rhp
8. Alberto Tirado, rhp
9. Dawel Lugo, ss
10. Sean Nolin, lhp
15. Toronto Blue Jays
2013 Rank: 15.
2012 Rank: 16.
How They Got Here: The Blue Jays system would rank among the best in the game had they not traded so much talent to the Mets (Noah Syndergaard, Travis d’Arnaud) and Marlins (Jake Marisnick, Justin Nicolino, Anthony DeSclafani) for R.A. Dickey, Jose Reyes and Mark Buerhle. Some pitching remains at the upper levels, but aggressive spending in Latin America can’t fill all the gaps in a system that traded that much talent and failed to sign first-round picks in 2011 and 2013.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: It’s a system full of sleepers, so picking only one is tough. Dominican RHP Miguel Castro has a good body (6-foot-5, 190 pounds), loud tools (his fastball touched 99 mph) and limited experience (17 innings above the Dominican Summer League).
2014 Rookies: 2B Ryan Goins showed a strong glove in a September callup. RHP John Stilson won’t open the year in Toronto but should pitch out of the bullpen, with No. 2 prospect Marcus Stroman a key wild card. He could start in the rotation in the second half or jump into the bullpen if the Jays contend. LHP Sean Nolin should earn some starts due to attrition in the big leagues.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Archie Bradley, rhp (9)
2. Braden Shipley, rhp (62)
3. Chris Owings, ss (66)
4. Aaron Blair, rhp
5. Jose Martinez, rhp
6. Stryker Trahan, c
7. Matt Stites, rhp
8. Brandon Drury, 3b
9. Jake Lamb, 3b
10. Jake Barrett, rhp
16. Arizona Diamondbacks
2013 Rank: 8.
2012 Rank: 4.
How They Got Here: General manager Kevin Towers has turned over the roster and farm system in his three-year tenure, holding onto top prospect RHP Archie Bradley but being aggressive in trading prospects otherwise if he thought the deal would help the big league club. The system still has enviable depth at shortstop and intriguing upside at the lower levels.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: 1B Daniel Palka has power to spare, which should earn him plenty of opportunities. The 2013 draft pick doesn’t need to rush, what with Paul Goldschmidt in Arizona, but he has the arm strength to play the outfield if he can improve his mobility.
2014 Rookies: Bradley and reigning Pacific Coast League MVP SS Chris Owings are close to big league ready and were pushing for roles in spring training. RHPs Matt Stites and Jake Barrett should see bullpen time if they stay healthy.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Robert Stephenson, rhp (19)
2. Billy Hamilton, of (43)
3. Phillip Ervin, of
4. Jesse Winker, of
5. Yorman Rodriguez, of
6. Michael Lorenzen, rhp
7. Carlos Contreras, rhp
8. Nick Travieso, rhp
9. Ben Lively, rhp
10. David Holmberg, lhp
17. Cincinnati Reds
2013 Rank: 15.
2012 Rank: 6.
How They Got Here: The Reds put together a long streak of hitting on first-round picks, from 2004 (Homer Bailey) through 2011 (top prospect Robert Stephenson). Holding the line on signing bonuses in the draft and internationally has sapped the system’s depth, though, especially among middle infielders and power arms.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Sal Romano fits the template as a fresh-armed, big-bodied Northeast prep pitcher. He needs to improve his changeup, but he has shown a good fastball and promising curve. His results haven’t been there in his first season and a half, but he has been durable and could take a development leap in 2014.
2014 Rookies: OF Billy Hamilton is the most anticipated Reds rookie in years and a fantasy darling thanks to being baseball’s fastest player. RHP Nick Christiani figures to earn innings in the big league bullpen, while C Tucker Barnhart will get playing time as a backup, especially if Devin Mesoraco isn’t healthy.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Francisco Lindor, ss (13)
2. Clint Frazier, of (48)
3. Trevor Bauer, rhp (83)
4. Tyler Naquin, of
5. Cody Anderson, rhp
6. Dorssys Paulino, ss
7. Ronny Rodriguez ss/2b
8. C.C. Lee, rhp
9. Jose Ramirez 2b/ss
10. Austin Adams, rhp
18. Cleveland Indians
2013 Rank: 20.
2012 Rank: 29.
How They Got Here: The Indians have taken more chances in the draft of late, and hit on preps such as top prospect SS Francisco Lindor, one of the game’s elite prospects. RHP Danny Salazar sped to the major league rotation ahead of schedule, a key sign of the international department’s return to significance. Overall the system lacks ideal depth, though.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Casey Shane is an example of the high-ceiling prep arm the Indians used to shy away from. The Texan has a strong frame and has shown plus velocity at times, but he needs plenty of development time.
2014 Rookies: The Indians aren’t counting on RHP Trevor Bauer, but he showed signs of life in spring training after a disastrous 2013. Lindor and LHP Kyle Crockett, a 2013 draft pick, could speed to Cleveland in the second half.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Kyle Crick, rhp (33)
2. Edwin Escobar, lhp (56)
3. Chris Stratton, rhp
4. Adalberto Mejia, lhp
5. Mac Williamson, of
6. Christian Arroyo, ss
7. Heath Hembree, rhp
8. Ty Blach, lhp
9. Joe Panik, 2b
10. Clayton Blackburn, rhp
19. San Francisco Giants
2013 Rank: 28.
2012 Rank: 23.
How They Got Here: The Giants’ focus on the big league roster often leads to low rankings for their farm system. The overall result has been just fine, with two World Series titles in the last four years, but San Francisco has seen some drafts fall short since its epic 2008 (Buster Posey, Brandon Crawford) and 2009 (Zack Wheeler, Brandon Belt) hauls. The organization’s love of high-ceiling arms remains intact, with several high-dollar bats (Gary Brown, Angel Villalona) falling short of hopes.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Keury Mella hasn’t reached full-season ball yet but has flashed mid-90s heat and an inconsistent breaking ball with power. His frame, high-energy approach and quick arm mark him as the next potential Giants pitching discovery.
2014 Rookies: RHP Kyle Crick won’t stay in the minors long if he can stay healthy, thanks to his 96-99 mph heater. RHP Heath Hembree has to throw more strikes to earn Bruce Bochy’s trust in the big league bullpen, and RHP Derek Law could join him. C Andrew Susac, an offensive-minded backstop who slugged .458 at Double-A last year, has an outside shot if the Giants decide to move Posey out from behind the plate.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Jake Odorizzi, rhp (67)
2. Hak-Ju Lee, ss
3. Taylor Guerrieri, rhp
4. Enny Romero, lhp
5. Alex Colome, rhp
6. Andrew Toles, of
7. Nick Ciuffo, c
8. Ryan Brett, 2b
9. Nate Karns, rhp
10. Kevin Kiermaier, of
20. Tampa Bay Rays
2013 Rank: 4.
2012 Rank: 8
How They Got Here: The Rays once found superstars in the draft, from Josh Hamilton and Carl Crawford to David Price and Evan Longoria. Drafting lower, as well as ignoring or missing on makeup (more than a dozen Rays farmhands have been suspended in the last three years for violations of baseball’s drug program), has thinned the system’s depth precipitously. The overall talent is buoyed by shrewd deals (such as for 2013 rookies Chris Archer and Wil Myers) and power arms from the international program.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Jose Mujica continues the trend of Rays power arms, after a strong debut in the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League last year. A $1 million signee, he has a classic loose, projectable arm and current fastball/changeup mix.
2014 Rookies: RHP Jake Odorizzi was on track to win the No. 5 starter’s job out of spring training. RHP Nate Karns, a trade pickup from the Nationals, and LHP C.J. Riefenhauser also factor into the big league staff, while OFs Brandon Guyer and Kevin Kiermaier could be role players.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Addison Russell, ss (14)
2. Billy McKinney, of
3. Raul Alcantara, rhp
4. Michael Ynoa, rhp
5. Renato Nunez, 3b
6. Max Muncy, 1b
7. Dylan Covey, rhp
8. Bobby Wahl, rhp
9. Daniel Robertson, ss
10. Billy Burns, of
21. Oakland Athletics
2013 Rank: 25.
2012 Rank: 7
How They Got Here: The A’s graduated RHPs Sonny Gray, A.J. Griffin and Daniel Straily to the rotation for back-to-back division winners, while trading prospects such as A.J. Cole (Nationals) and Michael Choice (Rangers). The system’s star, SS Addison Russell, could be next to move quickly. The organization hopes the 2013 draft restocked the pitching pipeline.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Dustin Driver didn’t have a huge senior season but entered 2013 as one of the draft class’ top prep arms. He’s physically mature, which should help him earn a full-season spot.
2014 Rookies: Russell is a good bet to hit his way to Oakland by the second half. RHP Arnold Leon, on the 40-man roster, figures to earn innings if healthy, while speedy OF Billy Burns figures to play a role for creative manager Bob Melvin.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Jose Abreu, 1b (29)
2. Erik Johnson, rhp (63)
3. Matt Davidson, 3b (72)
4. Marcus Semien, 2b/3b (91)
5. Tim Anderson, ss
6. Micah Johnson, 2b
7. Courtney Hawkins, of
8. Trayce Thompson, of
9. Chris Beck, rhp
10. Jacob May, of
22. Chicago White Sox
2013 Rank: 29.
2012 Rank: 27
How They Got Here: Former White Sox general manager Kenny Williams was known for aggressive trades that sapped the system of depth. New GM Rick Hahn had a disappointing big league club in 2013, so he traded for prospects while putting more money into the draft. The organization also is making a splash internationally for the first time in years.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Francellis Montas showed triple-digit velocity with the Red Sox before Chicago acquired him in the Jake Peavy trade. He hasn’t thrown that hard since the deal and likely fits as a reliever, but his arm strength is special.
2014 Rookies: RHP Erik Johnson should be a mainstay of the rotation, while 1B Jose Abreu got $68 million to anchor the lineup. Rule 5 pick C Adrian Nieto looked like he would make the team, while RHPs Daniel Webb and Jake Petricka are bullpen options.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Maikel Franco, 3b (17)
2. Jesse Biddle, lhp (71)
3. J.P. Crawford, ss (78)
4. Miguel Gonzalez, rhp
5. Roman Quinn, ss
6. Carlos Tocci, of
7. Ethan Martin, rhp
8. Cesar Hernandez, 2b/of
9. Aaron Altherr, of
10. Severino Gonzalez, rhp
23. Philadelphia Phillies
2013 Rank: 24.
2012 Rank: 27.
How They Got Here: The Phillies have hemorrhaged prospects in trades for years in an effort to hold open their window of contention in the big leagues, and their high-risk draft approach hasn’t had many hits of late. They have held onto aging major league assets rather than rebuilding, but at least can lean on a productive, efficient international program.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: OF/1B Kelly Dugan still swings and misses a lot, but he hit 20 homers last season, giving him a carrying tool and helping him profile for a corner spot.
2014 Rookies: Top prospect 3B/1B Maikel Franco should hit his way to Philadelphia this season, especially if Ryan Howard continues to struggle with his health. RHPs Miguel Gonzalez and Ethan Martin look like bullpen options, with 2B Cesar Hernandez filling multiple roles as a utility player.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Lucas Giolito, rhp (21)
2. A.J. Cole, rhp
3. Brian Goodwin, of
4. Matt Skole, 1b/3b
5. Sammy Solis, lhp
6. Michael Taylor, of
7. Jake Johansen, rhp
8. Steven Souza, of
9. Felipe Rivero, lhp
10. Tony Renda, 2b
24. Washington Nationals
2013 Rank: 13.
2012 Rank: 12.
How They Got Here: The Nationals have one of the big league’s best cores of 25-and-under talent and traded prospects in the offseason to fortify the roster for another playoff run. They have spent in the draft but are still rebuilding the international program from the Esmailyn Gonzalez affair.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Jefry Rodriguez has emerged as one of the top recent Latin American prospects the system has developed, with a projectable frame and fastball that has reached the mid-90s.
2014 Rookies: The Nats are looking for help on the bench from the likes of power-hitting SS Zach Walters, OF Steven Souza and versatile Jeff Kobernus.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Taijuan Walker, rhp (11)
2. D.J. Peterson, 3b/1b (85)
3. James Paxton, lhp (99)
4. Luiz Gohara, lhp
5. Edwin Diaz, rhp
6. Austin Wilson, of
7. Victor Sanchez, rhp
8. Tyler Marlette, c
9. Chris Taylor, ss
10. Danny Hultzen, lhp
25. Seattle Mariners
2013 Rank: 2.
2012 Rank: 6.
How They Got Here: After ranking No. 2 last year, Seattle fell off after graduating five of its Top 10 Prospects, while LHP Danny Hultzen had significant shoulder surgery. The upper levels of the system are thinner, though the international program has provided high-ceiling talent at the short-season levels.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: He’s still a bit raw, but OF Jabari Blash hit 25 home runs in 2013 and finished the year in Double-A. With power hard to come by in the game, Blash will keep getting chances to figure it out.
2014 Rookies: LHP James Paxton is penciled into the rotation, while RHP Taijuan Walker should earn starts if he can stay healthy. OF Abraham Almonte should contribute in center field and may even earn the everyday job. RHP Dominic Leone has the power arm to contribute in the bullpen.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Lucas Sims, rhp (57)
2. Christian Bethancourt, c (69)
3. J.R. Graha, rhp
4. Jason Hursh, rhp
5. Mauricio Cabrera, rhp
6. Jose Peraza, ss
7. David Hale, rhp
8. Victor Caratini, 3b/c
9. Tommy La Stella, 2b
10. Cody Martin, rhp
26. Atlanta Braves
2013 Rank: 26.
2012 Rank: 15.
How They Got Here: The Braves’ system was underrated last year, as Julio Teheran, Alex Wood and Evan Gattis impressed as rookies. The system has less talent at the upper levels but has intriguing arms and a productive international program. Tight draft budgets have hurt the organization’s depth.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Tyler Brosius spent two years as a little-used quarterback at North Carolina State before returning to baseball at the junior-college level. He showed two potential plus pitches in his pro debut and has a strong, physical frame.
2014 Rookies: RHP David Hale needs to be ready for a rotation spot after a spring of rotation injuries. 1B/OF Joey Terdoslavich factors in as a bench bat, and 2B Tommy La Stella could hit his way to Atlanta if Dan Uggla struggles again.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Andrew Heaney, lhp (30)
2. Colin Moran, 3b (61)
3. Jake Marisnick, of (79)
4. Justin Nicolino, lhp
5. Anthony DeSclafani, rhp
6. Brian Flynn, lhp
7. Jose Urena, rhp
8. Adam Conley, lhp
9. Avery Romero, 2b
10. J.T. Realmuto, c
27. Miami Marlins
2013 Rank: 5.
2012 Rank: 28.
How They Got Here: The Marlins have pushed prospects to Miami (Marzell Ozuna, Christian Yelich), some early and some like Jose Fernandez right on time. Their graduation has left a gap in the system, as have a few misses in the draft. A modest international signing budget also has led to a modest return.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: LHP Jarlin Garcia has a projectable frame, throws plenty of strikes with his low-90s fastball and has shown some ability with his changeup. He’s ready for his full-season closeup.
2014 Rookies: OF Jake Marisnick will battle Ozuna for the center-field job. LHP Brian Flynn has a shot at starts in a young, open-ended rotation, while RHPs Arquimedes Caminero, Sam Dyson and even Nick Wittgren should factor into the bullpen mix.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Nick Castellanos, of/3b (25)
2. Devin Travis, 2b (84)
3. Bruce Rondon, rhp
4. Robbie Ray, lhp
5. Jake Thompson, rhp
6. Jonathan Crawford, rhp
7. Corey Knebel, rhp
8. Eugenio Suarez, ss/2b
9. Domingo Leyba, ss/2b
10. Hernan Perez, 2b/ss
28. Detroit Tigers
2013 Rank: 27.
2012 Rank: 23.
How They Got Here: Detroit has invested in a few top prospects at the top of drafts, such as 3B Nick Castellanos, but a focus on winning now has resulted in trades and free-agent signings that have stripped the system of first-round picks. Detroit’s Venezuelan program has remained productive despite turmoil in that nation.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: Physical OF Steven Moya has just 41 walks in three tries at full-season ball, with 292 strikeouts. His power/speed combo and plus arm profile well for right field if he figures it out at the plate.
2014 Rookies: The Tigers shifted Castellanos back to third base after a season and a half on the outfield corners. 2B/SS Hernan Perez factors into the utility role, and corner OF Tyler Collins impressed new manager Brad Ausmus with a big spring.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Jimmy Nelson, rhp (96)
2. Tyrone Taylor, of
3. Mitch Haniger, of
4. Johnny Hellweg, rhp
5. Victor Roache, of
6. Taylor Jungmann, rhp
7. Orlando Arcia, ss
8. David Goforth, rhp
9. Devin Williams, rhp
10. Hunter Morris, 1b
29. Milwaukee Brewers
2013 Rank: 23.
2012 Rank: 26.
How They Got Here: Milwaukee graduated several prospects to the majors last year, including Khris Davis, Scooter Gennett and Tyler Thornburg, leaving the system looking a bit thinner. First-round failures such as Eric Arnett (2009, now released) and Jed Bradley (2011) haven’t helped improve the organization’s reputation for not being able to develop arms.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Tyler Wagner has good velocity and explosive movement on his sinker, helping him lead the minors with a 3.01 groundout/airout ratio among qualified starters in 2013.
2014 Rookies: Top prospect RHP Jimmy Nelson likely will move to the bullpen in the short term after the team signed Matt Garza. RHPs Rob Wooten and Johnny Hellweg could join him in the bullpen. 1Bs Hunter Morris and Jason Rogers have a shot at the wide-open first-base job.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Taylor Lindsey, 2b, (93)
2. C.J. Cron, 1b
3. Kaleb Cowart, 3b
4. R.J. Alvarez, rhp
5. Mark Sappington, rhp
6. Hunter Green, rhp
7. Ricardo Sanchez, rhp
8. Alex Yarbrough, 2b
9. Zach Borenstein, of
10. Cam Bedrosian, rhp
30. Los Angeles Angels
2013 Rank: 30.
2012 Rank: 19.
How They Got Here: The Angels have lost more draft picks than any organization in the last five years. They have traded prospects for big leaguers. And, for the triple whammy, they have taken a huge step back in the international arena. Mix in a poor 2010 draft, when the club had five of the first 40 picks, and the result is finishing No. 30 in our minor league talent rankings in back-to-back years.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Eduar Lopez spent two years in the Dominican Summer League, yet he has one of the system’s best fastballs. He’s far away but sticks out in a system thin on pitching.
2014 Rookies: A veteran-laden club won’t turn to many rookies this season, but LHP Brian Moran (a Rule 5 draft pick) and RHP R.J. Alvarez have a chance to contribute in the bullpen.
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