2011 Yankee Minor League Notes

[jacksonianmarch]

This is my top 50 as of right now. Obviously subject to change due to the AFL and instructs

 

1. Jesus Montero

2. Manuel Banuelos

3. Dellin Betances

4. Mason Williams

5. Austin Romine

6. Ravel Santana

7. Brett Marshall

8. Gary Sanchez

9. Slade Heathcott

10. Dante Bichette Jr.

11. Adam Warren

12. Tyler Austin

13. Cito Culver

14. Abraham Almonte

15. JR Murphy

16. David Phelps

17. Angelo Gumbs

18. Corban Joseph

19. Claudio Custodio

20. DJ Mitchell

21. Zoilo Almonte

22. Jose Ramirez

23. Bryan Mitchell

24. Graham Stoneburner

25. Rob Segedin

26. Taylor Morton

27. Ramon Flores

28. David Adams

29. Mikey O'Brien

30. Brandon Laird

31. Jake Cave

32. Gabriel Encinas

33. Andrew Brackman

34. Robert Lyerly

35. Nik Turley

36. Daniel Lopez

37. Mark Montgomery

38. Jordan Cote

39. Ben Gamel

40. Brandon Pinder

41. Caleb Cotham

42. Jose Rosario

43. Greg Bird

44. Chase Whitley

45. Zach Nuding

46. Connor Mullee

47. Daniel Burawa

48. Melky Mesa

49. Jose Quintana

50. Jairo Heredia

[BigPapiEnFuego]

AKA "The top 50 most likely to be traded for an overpaid veteran on the decline" list

[jacksonianmarch]

And they've done this lately?

[Meh]

No way should Montgomery be that low

[jacksonianmarch]

Montgomery is a reliever who got as high as Charleston. I think you have to manage ceiling as well as proximity when you make these rankings. Montgomery looks like a potential closer, but he also could flame out between A+, AA, or AAA. The relief role and the proximity holds him down, IMO. If he comes out and dominates Tampa and Trenton next yr, then he could be in the 10-15 range

[Meh]

I didn't have much time looking over your rankings too much so here's some more questions..

 

Andrew Brackman, are you rating him out as a RP or SP?

 

Jose Quintana has a lot of support, he's 49th for you though... looks like he had decent numbers too.

 

Gary Sanchez had a good year with the bat.. and even better when you think of his age and where he played. Are you this upset over his attitude problems? I mean for me... if I was a millionaire at 18 I might of been cocky too, hell I wasn't even a millionaire and was cocky.

 

Culver over Gumbs?

 

Kudos to you for giving Tyler Austin some respect.

[jacksonianmarch]

Brackman is a RP. He's in AAA, hence why he has an edge on Montgomery.

 

Quintana has some fringe stuff but good location. He's a lefty which is why he made the list. Sanchez is top 10, there is no big issue here. Culver over Gumbs mostly because of position. I think Gumbs ends up in the OF, and Culver projects as a solid big league shortstop.

[Divinity]

Took this Top 50 from someone on prospect daily, the comparisons are a little off, but a good write up none the less.

 

1- Jesus Montero – Catcher – 21 – 6’3 / 235

Quote:

Now in the Majors, Montero has been one of the best hitting prospects in baseball the past 3 years. Signed out of Venezuela at the tender age of 17, scouts rated his power and hitting ability as an “80” on a 20-80 scale. While his power is still under development, he has been a consistent performer in the MiL level and has consistently faced off against competition that is much older. His defense behind the plate is also much improved and he is now “mediocre/average” behind the plate rather than bad. Still, it’s his bat that will carry him.

 

MLB Comparison- Miguel Cabrera (with the bat)

2- Manny Banuelos – LHP – 20 – 5’11 / 155

Quote:

He is one of the top young arms in the minor leagues. Banuelos was signed as a 17 year old from Mexico. Since signing the one thing we always heard about him was his poise and pitchability. Blessed with 3 above average to plus pitches, Banuelos has done nothing but move up and excel in the minors. Last season he picked up extra speed on his fastball and now sits around 93 (before he sat 90). His strikeout pitch is his change-up but his curveball has shown the most improvement since signing. He has struggled with control this year but that could be due to harnessing his new fastball and playing against older and better competition. I think he wins a starting job out of Spring Training otherwise its AAA.

 

MLB Comparison- Cole Hamels

3- Dellin Betances – RHP – 23 – 6’8 / 260

Quote:

Given $1M to sign out of HS as an 8th round pick in the 2006 draft. The first thing you notice about Betances is his build. At 6’8 and 260 lbs, he is an imposing figure on the mound. Like most pitchers his size, Betances has trouble with control and mechanics. Stuff-wise, Betances can go toe-to-toe up against anyone. He has a high octane fastball that sits 94-95 and a legit big league curveball. His other offerings still need some help. He will start the season in AAA and will be one of the first call-ups if we need rotation help.

 

MLB Comparison- Josh Beckett

4- Gary Sanchez – Catcher – 18 – 6’2 / 220

Quote:

Signed out of the Dominican as a young 16 year old. Sanchez is Montero-lite with the bat but unlike Montero he projects to stick behind the plate as an above average catcher. Like some teenagers, Sanchez has dealt with some maturity issues. Luckily, from all accounts those issues are no longer present. Sanchez’ season ended early because of an injury but he had a very successful first full season. He showed plenty of pop (17 HR in 343 PA’s) as an 18 year old in A-ball. Tampa is the obvious next stop but there is a chance that he starts in Charleston.

 

MLB Comparison- Right handed Brian McCann? Simply put he has the talent to be a power hitting ML catcher

5- Austin Romine – Catcher – 22 – 6’0 / 220

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 2nd round of the 2007 draft. One thing about Romine is that he’s a very steady prospect. Doesn’t really have one tool that sticks out but does a lot of things well. He has showed gap power and solid plate discipline (this year in particular) when hitting. He has generally worked well with pitchers and is a solid catcher behind the plate. He is a good receiver and possesses a strong arm. He does get a little sloppy with his footwork at times but that can be corrected. His biggest strength according to PP is being able to lead a pitching staff. He will start in AAA next season.

 

MLB Comparison- Kurt Suzuki

6- J.R. Murphy – Catcher/3B – 20 – 6’0 / 190

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 2nd round of the 2009 draft. He and Romine were interchangeable. I went with Romine at 5 because of his ML readiness. Murphy has a better bat than Romine and projects to be better down the road. He has well above average plate discipline for a hitter so young. He has also improved greatly behind the plate that most scouts feel that he may have a future there. His season was cut short with some sort of leg injury but next year figured to be a big year for Murphy. Like Romine, Murphy has a great relationship with his pitchers and unlike most young players; Murphy has shown tremendous leadership qualities. He will likely start in Tampa next season.

 

MLB Comparison- Russell Martin

7- Slade Heathcott – CF – 20 – 6’1 / 190

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 1st round of the 2009 draft. He is a legit 4 tool player with the only tool missing is hitting fo0r power. He shows an advanced and a patient approach at the plate. Doesn’t mind taking the walk. Started hitting for some power this year but just like in years past he went down with a shoulder injury. Where Heathcott really excels though is on defense. He has very good speed which he uses to track down fly balls. His instincts are top notch and he has an extremely strong and accurate arm. He’s pretty much Brett Gardner with a cannon on defense. Should be in Tampa next season.

 

MLB Comparison- Brett Gardner

8- Mason Williams – CF – 20 – 6’0 / 150

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 4th round of the 2010 draft. Williams is probably one of the most toolsy and exciting prospect in the Yankees farm system. Coming into the year Williams was known for his exceptional speed and his defensive skills. There was some concern that he would be limited with the bat but he answered those with a great 2011 year down in Staten Island. A .349 BA and.863 OPS would do that for a guy. Scouts have been raving about his bat speed and the ability to consistently make hard contact at the plate. He should be in Charleston starting next season.

 

MLB Comparison- Grady Sizemore

9- Adam Warren – RHP – 24 – 6’2 / 215

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 4th round of the 2009 draft. Warren has moved up quickly since being drafted by the Yanks in 09. It was expected considering Warren was a successful college senior. He is a true fastball pitcher. His 4-seamer sits at 94 (can hit 97) and his 2-seamer sits at 91 and he has really good command of both pitches. The rest of his arsenal consists of a change-up (his preferred out pitch), a curveball that has shown promise but is still average at best and a mediocre slider. He’s a solid prospect but a lack of a true off-speed pitch is what keeps him from being a legit prospect. He will battle for a rotation spot but will likely start the season at AAA unless he’s traded.

 

MLB Comparison- Bartolo Colon?

10- Brett Marshall – RHP – 21 – 6’0 / 195

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 6th round of the 2008 draft. Marshall has every bit of talent to be the next great Yankee pitching prospect. Coming out of HS, Marshall (like most Texan pitchers) possessed a power 4-seam fastball that sat 94-95 and topped out at 97. After a disastrous 09 season and Tommy John surgery he changed his fastball grip. Now it’s more of a 2-seamer/sinker that still sits 92-95 but is a more efficient pitch. It’s a groundball and swing and miss pitch and is Marshall’s bread and butter. He has 2 good secondary pitches in his circle change and slider and both show plus potential. His change is ahead of his slider though. By a lot. He should start in AA next season.

 

MLB Comparison- Tim Hudson

 

11- David Phelps – RHP – 24 – 6’2 / 185

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 14th round of the 2008 draft. Since being drafted, Phelps has done nothing but perform. He doesn’t hurt himself (2.0 BB/9 ratio and a 0.6 HR/9 ratio for his career) and consistently provides innings for his team. He throws a 2-seam fastball that sits 92 which he uses to get quick outs and a 4-seam fastball that sits 93. He prefers his 2-seamer but has great command of both of them. He throws a big league slider and an above average curveball. His change-up is fairly average and he throws it to give hitters a different look. He doesn’t have one plus pitch but has 3 pitches that rate as ‘above league average’. He’s a personal fave. He should be one of the pitchers ‘battling’ for a spot but it’s likely he will return to AAA unless he’s traded.

 

MLB Comparison- Wade Davis

12- Corban Joseph – 2B – 22 – 6’0 / 168

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 4th round of the 2008 draft. Since being drafted by the Yankees, Joseph has shown an advanced approach at the plate. He’s extremely selective at the plate and doesn’t mind taking the walk. Over the past three seasons, Joseph has averaged over 50 BB’s per season. Joseph has also shown the ability to make good contact at the plate and has gap to gap power. He’s a video junkie and constantly watches film of his swing to make sure it’s short and sweet. Joseph doesn’t really have the speed you look for in a middle infielder. He’s an average defender at 2B. He can make the routine plays but has limited range. He should be in AAA next season but a return to AA isn’t out of the question.

 

MLB Comparison- Marco Scutaro

13- David Adams – 2B – 24 – 6’2 / 190

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 3rd round of the 2008 draft. If not for his injury issues he’d be a legit top 100 prospect. He has the talent to be a yearly .300 hitter. Has a short and compact swing. Patient approach. Great strike-zone discipline and a tireless work ethic. He has slightly above average speed but gets great reads on the base paths and is a very instinctive runner. He has also turned himself into a legit 2B, defensively. Still not great, but he isn’t terrible either. Coaches have also raved about his intangibles. He’s a workaholic and is known to be “gritty”. Depending on what happens with Joseph, I see Adams starting at AA but if he shows he’s healthy and productive I can see a call up to AAA.

 

MLB Comparison- Dustin Pedroia (Adams is THAT gritty)

14- Zoilo Almonte – CF/RF – 22 – 5’11 / 165

Quote:

Signed out of Dominican Republic as a 16 year old in 2005. Almonte was always a high-tool prospect but never seemed to put it together. He broke out in 2010 and followed that up with a very good 2011 campaign. He’s a switch hitter but shows more power from the left-side. He has clean hitting mechanics from both sides and does a solid job at making consistent contact. He has power to the opposite field and does a good job at hitting the ball there. He has above average speed and does a very good job at picking his spots to steal. He’s an above average defender. Takes good reads and has an ‘average RF arm.’ He’ll be in AA next season. Some vital 2011 stats (15 HR, 18 SB’s, 45 BB’s, .803 OPS between Hi-A and AA). I like Zoilo a bit more than others.

 

MLB Comparison- Randy Winn

15- Dante Bichette Jr. – 3B – 18 – 6’1 / 215

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 1st round of the 2011 draft. Bichette has one thing that a lot of ML scouts look for and that’s bloodlines. Son of former Rockie Dante Bichette, Jr. made immediate impact for the Yankees rookie league after signing. Dante’s bat is what got him selected and it’s his bat that is going to have to carry him. He has shown the ability to make consistently hard contact with the bat and also has shown deadly pitch recognition. He finished his debut season with a .335 BA, a .947 OPS and 31-43 BB-K ratio. Defensively he’s suspect at 3B right now but he’s still very young and has room to improve. He will start next season in SI and it will be fun to see if he can continue to hit as he moves on up.

 

MLB Comparison- Troy Glaus

16- Bryan Mitchell – RHP – 20 – 6’2 / 175

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 16th round of the 2009 draft. Mitchell has two pitches that project to be plus pitches down the road. His 4-seam fastball that sits 92-94 and a power curveball that has plus-plus potential. He gets good movement with both of his pitches. He also throws a change-up but it’s very inconsistent. 2011 has been an up and down year for Mitchell. He’s striking guys out at a good clip but his command has been very sketchy and he has the tendency to nibble. Next year will be a good developmental year for Mitchell. We’ll see if he can improve his command and how he’s developing his change-up. Charleston seems like the next stop.

 

MLB Comparison- Phil Hughes

17- Brandon Laird – 3B – 23 – 6’1 - 215

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 27th round of the 2007 draft. Laird has always been a guy that can hit. He hit his way up the Yankees affiliates. His breakout season was 2010 where he hit 25 HR’s and drove in 102 runs between AA and AAA. 2011 has been a let-down for Laird. What is strange is that he has lost the ability to take a walk. After averaging about 40 BB’s from 08-10, Laird has only drawn 17 BB’s in 2011. He still hit .260 and had 16 HR’s but his .288 OBP is not gonna get it down. On the plus side, Laird has greatly improved his defense. He was voted as the best defensive 3B in the Intl-League this year. Laird should compete for a bench job next year. Trade-bait candidate.

 

MLB Comparison- Kevin Kouzmanoff

18- Angelo Gumbs – 2B – 18 – 6’0 / 175

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 2nd round of the 2010 draft. Very young player. He was only 17 when he was drafted and made his debut that same year. Offensively, Gumbs’ best tool is his tremendous bat speed. He has very quick hands and that projects well as he gets older. He has shown moderate gap power but he will never really be a power hitter. Gumbs has elite speed. He is extremely fast and very athletic. He should be a demon on the base paths once he gets more experience. Due to his speed he has the skills to be a great defensive 2B. Good range, good hands, good arm. I think he starts in SI next year.

 

MLB Comparison- Luis Castillo

19- Melky Mesa – CF – 24 – 6’1 / 190

Quote:

Signed out of Dominican Republic as a 16 year old in 2003. One word to describe Mesa? Tools. Mesa has physical tools that can compare with anyone in the MiL level. He also has shown to be extremely inconsistent. It took Mesa about 4 years in the system to finally put it all together and have a good year. In 2010 Mesa had that breakout year. His batting line was .260/.338/.475 with 19 HR’s and 31 SB’s. In 2011 he moved up to AA and had a very inconsistent year. His pre all-star slash line was .211/.281/.368 and looked over matched. His post all-star line was .297/.381/.445. It was a tale of two halves for Mesa. Offensively he is very Alfonso Soriano like. He can hit any fastball. He can turn any fastball at any speed. He has struggle hitting breaking pitches and that might be his ultimate downfall. He has plus speed and athleticism but he doesn’t get the best reads and isn’t all that instinctual. Defensively he is a beast. Plus defender across the board and has a plus-plus arm in RF.

 

MLB Comparison- Nelson Cruz

20- Ravel Santana – CF – 19 – 6’2 / 160

Quote:

Signed out of Dominican Republic as a 16 year old in 2008. Another high upside and extremely talented international OF. Santana is a true 5-tool talent. He and Mason Williams are easily the two most exciting prospects in the system. After completely dominating the Dominican Summer League in 2010, Santana didn’t disappoint in 2011 with the Gulf Coast league. Santana had 23 extra base hits in 162 AB’s including 9 HR’s and a .929 OPS. The only downfall to his season was his k-rates. He averaged a strikeout per game. He also displayed good speed and stole 10 bases in 43 games. He has all the tools to be a plus defender as well. Plus speed, plus instincts and a plus-plus arm. He’s the total package. Why is he this low? His season ending injury. Apparently his ankle was broken in two places and there is concern that he might not have the same speed and explosion once he returns. If healthy, he should start in SI next season. He has top 5 talent.

 

MLB Comparison- Matt Kemp

 

21- Andrew Brackman – RHP – 25 – 6’10 / 230

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 1st round of the 2007 draft. Brackmonster was a horror show in Scranton this year. He finished the season with as many walks as strikeouts and had a 9 walk game. He struggled with mechanics, command, you name it. He showed promise in some starts for a few innings and then completely broke down the next. We hate AJ Burnett, now imagine a guy 10 times worse and you get Brackman’s 2011 campaign. With that said, Brackman still has the ‘stuff’ that translates well to the ML level. He throws a hard fastball that shows great sink and sits 94-95. He throws two different types of curveball and both have shown plus promise in the past. Brackman is on this list mainly for how filthy his stuff can potentially be. Next year is a make or break year for Brackman.

 

MLB Comparison- A.J. Burnette

22- Graham Stoneburner – RHP – 23 – 6’1 / 190

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 14th round of the 2009 draft. Another guy like David Adams. If not for his neck injury, Stoneburner had a chance to be much higher on this last. Sadly, even when he did come back from his injury, Stoneburner just wasn’t as effective as he had been. He struggled with control issues once he was back in AA. Stuff-wise, he’s a lot like Warren. He throws two fastballs but is more comfortable throwing his 2-seamer which is a deadly pitch. It sits 92-94 and shows good downward movement. His best secondary pitch is his slider which can be a plus pitch at times but disappears in some starts. His change is average and once showed big league potential. Next year will be a big year for him but in the end his future rests in the bullpen. His secondary pitches are just too inconsistent.

 

MLB Comparison- Fausto Carmona

23- Cito Culver – SS – 19 – 6’0 / 185

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 1st round of the 2010 draft. He was considered a reach when he was drafted and he still hasn’t really broken out yet. Offensively he doesn’t make solid contact on a regular basis. He has shown to be patient and take the walk which are the only plus things about him offensively right now. He’s a switch hitter but he has a huge platoon split. His batting average as a right hander is .324 where as his batting average from the left side is .224. Most scouts have taken a note of this and have recommended that he focuses on becoming a right handed hitter full-time. On defense he has had some trouble with the errors but all things considered he still has a chance to be a good defender there. His best defensive trait is his plus arm. Culver is here because he still has talent and projects to stay at SS long-term. There is value in playing a premium position (and being a high draft pick) and that’s what is helping Culver’s stock. I think he begins next season in SI.

 

MLB Comparison- Pre-2011 Asdrubal Cabrera

24- D.J. Mitchell – RHP – 24 – 6’0 / 160

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 10th round of the 2008 draft. He’s a true GB pitcher. His best pitch is his 2-seamer that sits 91 and gets him plenty of GB outs. He has developed a nice change and curveball over the past two seasons and both pitches can be out pitches on any given night. On the flip side, his secondary pitches also have a tendency to be very inconsistent. He had a great year in 2011 and some might be surprised to find him this low. The thing is he just doesn’t have the consistent arsenal or the consistent command to be a big league starter. I think he’s better suited in the BP. Like the rest of (Phelps, Warren, even Noesi) AAA starters from 2011 Mitchell is ML ready. We’ll see what the Yanks decide to do with him. Return to AAA is likely.

 

MLB Comparison- Jim Johnson (Orioles reliever that Montero raped)

25- Jose Quintana – LHP – 22 – 6’0 / 170

Quote:

Signed out of Colombia as a 16 year old by the Mets in 2006. I don’t know what happened to him but he was signed by the Yankees later and pitched for their DSL squad in 2008 and 2009. He made his stateside debut in 2010 pitching for the GCL squad and Charleston. 2011 was his standout season. He made 30 appearances (12 starts) for the Tampa team and pitched to a sub-3.00 ERA. His peripherals were very strong; over 7 K/9, less that a 3 BB/9 and less than a hit per inning. His fastball sits 90-92 in the rotation and he throws two big league secondary pitches in his curveball and his change-up. Both have shown potential. Given his success, you’d think he’d be higher on his list. My reserved ranking is due to his injury history and lack of a track record. Let’s see how he does next year when he will be a full-time starter.

 

MLB Comparison- Jonathan Niese

26- George Kontos – RHP – 26 – 6’3 / 215

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 5th round of the 2006 draft. Kontos was a pretty good starting prospect for the Yankees before his TJ surgery. He was claimed by the Padres in the Rule V draft but was returned shortly after. He was then moved to the BP and since then he has flourished. Not a particularly hard-thrower, Kontos sits in 91-92 range with his fastball that he spots well and combines that with a devastating slider. His slider sits around 83 and is a true out pitch. It might be surprising to see Kontos as the first reliever ranked (considering other power arms in the lower levels) but he’s ML ready and can help the BP right now. Kontos has been exceptionally sharp in 2011 for AAA with a 3.50 K/BB ratio and a shiny 2.62 ERA.

 

MLB Comparison- Chad Qualls

27- Abe Almonte – CF – 22 – 5’9 / 205

Quote:

Signed out of Dominican Republic as a 16 year old in 2005. Almonte is another one of the toolsy international signees that have underperformed. Some of that might have to do with the shoulder surgery he had a couple seasons back. Anyway, he started the 2011 off dreadfully and by the all-star break he was hitting just .218 with a sub .300 OBP. There was some frustration but he turned it around in the 2nd half and hit .314 with a .369 OBP (.854 OPS). Like Mesa, it was a tale of two halves for Almonte. As for a mini scouting report. Plus speed (30 SB’s in 2011) and plus defender in CF. Offensively he has great bat speed and an advanced approach. He takes his walks. He’s a switch-hitter but a natural right-handed hitter and he had more success as a right-handed hitter last year as well (.319 BA, compared to a .251 from the left side).

 

MLB Comparison- Coco Crisp

28- Jack Cave – OF – 18 – 6’0 / 180

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 6th round of the 2011 draft. Cave signed for 825K on deadline day and figures to be the next high end OF prospect to join the system (Mason Williams in 2010 and Heathcott in 2009 being the others). He was recently named the #1 prospect in the Coastal Plain League where he played against college players and held his own. His final batting line was .326/.423/.442. Scouts were impressed with his bat speed and solid approach. He’s also a good runner and has a plus arm in the OF (hit 94 consistently from the pitching mound as a starter).

 

MLB Comparison- J.D. Drew

29- Ramon Flores – 1B/LF – 19 – 5’10 / 150

Quote:

Signed out of Venezuela as a 16 year old in 2008. The dude needs to eat a cheeseburger or something. He has a very slight build at 5’10 and 150 lbs. He had a good start to his season in 2011 but then faltered in the 2nd half. His OBP sat at .375 by the all-star but he only managed a .329 OBP the rest of the way. Offensively, Flores is all about patience. He has good bat control and rarely swings at pitches out of the zone. He has a tendency to take too many pitches/strikes at times. He has steady power for a guy his size also. He’s a good defender in LF. He isn’t a burner but takes good routes to the ball and has an accurate arm. Simply put, Flores just doesn’t have the tools that some of the other OF’s in the system have and his small stature limits his ceiling.

 

MLB Comparison- David DeJesus

30- Tommy Kahnle – RHP – 22 – 6’1 / 220

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 5th round of the 2010 draft. He has arguably the best stuff out of any BP arm in the minors. He had a very nice 2011 season where he gave up less than a hit per inning, only 1 HR in over 80 IP and over 12 K/9. His issue was command and he finished the season with a 5.4 BB/9 ratio. If he can clean that up, he’s a special reliever. Kahnle has a power 4-seam fastball and he sits 95-98 with it. It’s also ‘easy velocity’ according to scouts. His out-pitch is a devastating change-up which grades out as a plus pitch. Tampa seems like the next stop.

 

MLB Comparison- Leo Nunez

[Divinity]

31- Jairo Heredia – RHP – 21 – 6’1 / 190

Quote:

Signed out of Dominican Republic as a 16 year old in 2006.Prior to the 2009 season, Heredia was on his way to becoming one of the best Yankee pitching prospect in the system. He was more though off than Arodys Vizcaino. Sadly, he stumbled in Hi-A and his fastball velo fluctuated which caused him to sink as a prospect. He returned with a vengeance in 2011 but had his season cut short due to injury. Heredia sits 89-92 with his fastball and commands it well. It’s fairly straight. His strength as a pitcher lies in his secondary pitches. Both his curveball and change-up have been said to have plus potential.

 

MLB Comparison- Ian Kennedy

32- Jose Ramirez – RHP – 21 – 6’1 / 155

Quote:

Signed out of Dominican Republic as a 17 year old in 2007. There was a lot of promise coming into the 2011 season for Jose Ramirez. It was reported that the Yankees were willing to trade Arodys Vizcaino because they had so much faith in Ramirez. He had put up back to back really good seasons at the lower levels and there was a lot of promise. Ramirez just didn’t deliver. He struggled mightily in Tampa and then had trouble in Charleston as well. His K-rates were still good and his BB and HR rates were fairly normal. He just didn’t pitch well. This led to a 5.66 ERA overall between Tampa and Charleston in 103 innings. Ramirez throws a 4-seam fastball that sits 92-94 (can hit 96) with good movement. His out pitch is his change-up and it’s probably his best pitch overall (sitting at 80 mph). His curveball is very inconsistent. Its shows promise in some games and in some games it’s flat and very hittable. Ramirez also struggles with mechanics at times which lead to some command issues. Next year will be a big year for Ramirez.

 

MLB Comparison- Brad Penny

33- Mikey O’Brien – RHP – 21 – 5’11 / 185

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 9th round of the 2008 draft. Small for an ideal starter (5’11), O’Brien has exceeded expectations since being signed. After disappointing 2008 and 2009 seasons, he broke out in 2010 for the SI Yanks. He backed that up with a great 2011 campaign where he split time with Low-A and Hi-A affiliates. His final numbers included a 3.16 ERA in 119.2 IP and a 2.20 K/BB ratio. O’Brien has power stuff for a small guy. His fastball sits 91-93 and has the ability to touch 95. He has good command of his fastball. He throws a change and a curve as well. His curveball is his K pitch. Given his stature, I expect him to be a reliever down the road. He will probably begin the season in Tampa.

 

MLB Comparison- David Robertson

34- Tyler Austin – 1B/3B – 19 – 6’2 / 200

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 13th round of the 2010 draft. A guy you want to root for. He is a cancer survivor and a pretty talented prospect. Austin’s calling card is hit bat. He’s a very good hitter for his age and it’s his bat that is going to carry him. He has some raw power that he is still trying to develop and a good sense of what to do at the plate. He’s aggressive in the zone and puts the good contact on the ball consistently. Besides that there isn’t much to his game. He’s not fast but is an instinctive base-runner (18/18 in steal attempts). On defense his arm is his best trait but other than that he’s not a great defender. It will be interesting to see if he can continue to hit in the upper levels.

 

MLB Comparison- Martin Prado

35- Gabe Encinas – RHP – 19 – 6’3 / 195

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 6th round of the 2010 draft. Struggled during his first season of pro ball. His peripherals weren’t all that bad though. 8.1 K/9, 3.2 BB/9 and 0.5 HR/9. He had some bad BABIP luck and didn’t help himself with 11 wild pitches in 51 innings. Encinas is on this list because of his high upside. He throws a power fastball that sits 92-94 but most scouts think that it will be a touch higher once he fills out his form. Both of his secondary pitches (spike-curveball and a change-up) have plus potential but the command of both still needs refining. He can move up tons on the prospect lists if he does well next year. I think he could start for Charleston next season.

 

MLB Comparison- Gavin Floyd

36- Greg Bird – C/1B – 18 – 6’3 / 215

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 5th round of the 2011 draft. He was given the highest signing bonus (1.1M) of any player selected by the Yanks this year. 1B seems to be his position long-term since he doesn’t seem to have the athleticism to stick behind the plate. Offense is going to have to carry Bird to the big leagues. Recently, he was named the 2nd best prospect in the Cal Collegiate League. Bird (along with Bichette) give the Yankees farm system a boost in the power department. Besides the power, Bird is known for having a good work ethic and an advanced approach at the plate. He’ll be in one of the short season leagues, I’m guessing, next season.

 

MLB Comparison- Aubrey Huff

37- Chase Whitley – RHP – 22 – 6’4 / 220

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 15th round of the 2010 draft. The 3rd true reliever in these rankings. He was a two-way player in college and has moved up fairly quickly since signing. He struggled a bit after his call up to AA. His walks went up and his K rates for the whole season were low compared to years prior (still respectable). Whitley should be able to help the ML bullpen by next season if need be. He throws a 4-seamer and 2-seamer which sits 90-92. He prefers the 2-seamer. His out pitch is his change-up which is above big league average. He also has a developing slider which has shown some positive signs. He will probably start the season at AA with a AAA promotion in sight.

 

MLB Comparison- Matt Albers

38- Mark Montgomery – RHP – 21 – 5’11 / 205

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 11th round of the 2011 draft. 51 K’s in 28 innings pitched including 5 K’s in one inning. WTF? He’s a two pitch pitcher. He throws a fastball that sits 91-93 and a slider that sits 84-86. The slider is his out pitch and by the K’s he has gotten it’s very effective. If you go solely on stats, Monty would be much higher on this list. I have him a bit lower than others because of his fastball command and his shorter build. If he gets his fastball command under control he can be a future closer type pitcher. Right now his ceiling is probably a 7th inning guy.

 

MLB Comparison- Mark Melancon

39- Isaias Tejada – C – 19 – 6’0 / 190

Quote:

Can’t find much. I’m guessing he was signed in 2009 out of Dominican Republic as a 17 year old; He played in the DSL the next year and had moderate success. He broke out big time for the GCL Yankees in 2011. From an article I read on PP, they seem to rave about Tejada’s intangibles. His work ethic and passion for the game were noted. Offensively, his numbers speak for themselves. His batting line for the season is at .331/.402/.563 which includes one game for SI. Defensively, he’s still new to catching but shows a willingness to get better. Players at that position © and at that age (19) are always prospects. Hopefully we find more about him in the off-season. He should start at SI next year.

 

MLB Comparison- IDK- Don't have a legit scouting report or much info regarding him.

40- Taylor Morton – RHP – 19 – 6’3 / 195

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 9th round of the 2010 draft. Drafted 3 rounds after Encinas in the same draft there are some similarities between the two. Both were HS pitchers with a good build and good secondary pitches. Polish and a consistent 3rd pitch is what separates the two. Morton is still pretty raw and his fastball velo fluctuates from time to time. Anyway, he had a successful 2011 season. He finished the season with a 2.29 ERA between GCL and SI. He limited his BB’s (1.6 BB/9) but there was some concern regarding his low K-numbers (6.2 K/9). Morton’s fastball sits 90-93 and he has good downward movement on it. His best out pitch is his change-up which has plus potential but will likely take a backseat to his developing slider. It’s a hard slider sitting 85-86 but it’s inconsistent. It shows promise and his entire projection rests behind its development. SI looks to be the next stop.

 

MLB Comparison- Randy Wells

 

41- Yeicok Calderon – RF – 19 – 6’2 / 185

Quote:

Signed out of Dominican Republic as a 16 year old in 2008. Calderon was one of the Yankees top signings that year. After a couple of seasons where he torched the DSL competition, there was a lot of hype regarding his stateside debut in 2011. It sucks but Calderon had a tough first year. He struggled against breaking pitches and struggled to make contact. He did show promise as a power hitter though. His ISO for 2011 was .232 which is well above league average. As for his scouting report, Calderon is known as an aggressive hitter with a good eye and good power to all fields. Speed isn’t really a part of his game. He has a strong throwing arm but the rest of his defense can use some work.

 

MLB Comparison- Jermaine Dye

42- Rafael DePaula – RHP – 19 (?) – 6’3 / 210

Quote:

Signed out of Dominican Republic in 2010. DePaula is being investigated by the MLB for lying about his age/name and is still trying to get his USA visa. He has been regarded as the best international arm for the past year or two. His fastball sits comfortable in the 92-94 range and hits 96 on the regular. His best secondary pitch is his curveball and it grades out as a plus-plus pitch. If he had gotten his visa already, I would have put him after Sanchez on this list. He should be in Charleston once his issues are resolved.

 

MLB Comparison- Felix Hernandez

43- Claudio Custodio – SS – 20 – 5’10 / 155

Quote:

Signed out of Dominican Republic as a 19 year old in 2010. Custodio’s game is based off speed. He gets on base and he runs. This makes him an ideal lead-off candidate going forward. He also has some pop in his bat but that hasn’t translated to in-game power yet. Defensively, he has good range and an above average arm. He had a very good debut year stateside in 2011. A .325 BA, .433 OBP and 26 SB’s were all impressive. He was a bit ‘old’ for the league so let’s see how he progresses in the next couple of years. “Sleeper” prospect.

 

MLB Comparison- Emilio Bonifacio

44- Zach Nuding – RHP – 21 – 6’4 / 250

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 30th round of the 2010 draft. Big dude. He’s a power pitcher to the core. Like most power pitchers he has pretty poor control. He was a sleeper coming into the year and had a solid year. He finished his 2011 season with a 4.24 ERA (with 3 teams), a 7.6 K/9, 2.0 K/BB ratio and less than a hit per inning. He’s a 2-pitch pitcher for the most part. A fastball that consistently sits at 93-94 and a ‘big league’ slider. He has toyed with a split-finger as well but it’s a fringy pitch. Nuding is still young enough to continue his path as a starter but it is very likely that the bullpen is where his future home is.

 

MLB Comparison- Chris Perez

45- Ben Gamel – RF – 19 – 5’10 / 155

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 10th round of the 2010 draft. Unlike his brother Mat, Ben’s game is based of speed not power. On offensively, Gamel’s a pure-hitter and very good gap hitter. He’s patient at the plate and generally has good AB’s. He doesn’t have any other tools but he’s a good base runner and has good instincts in the OF. He’s also ‘gritty’. He had a good 2011 in Staten Island with a .289 BA and .373 OBP along with22 xbh in 190 AB’s. Some say that he’s a tweener (not fast enough for CF and not much power for a RF) and he will have to prove those people wrong.

 

MLB Comparison- Raul Ibanez

46- Ray Kruml – OF – 26 – 5’11 / 175

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 11th round of the 2008 draft. He doesn’t have much of a ceiling or any chance at being an everyday starter at the ML level. But he does offer elite speed and great defensive skills. He’s a natural CF but has plenty of experience playing both LF and RF. Offensively; he’s a good bunter and has good small-ball skills. He had a good 2011. He hit .290 with a .335 OBP in AA before getting promoted to AAA and struggling. He’s on this list because he can help the big league club right now as a reserve bench player.

 

MLB Comparison- Juan Pierre

47- Evan DeLuca – LHP – 20 – 6’1 / 195

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 44th round of the 2009 draft. DeLuca is very raw and a long-term project. He had an ‘ok’ season for SI in 2011. Pitching to a 4.27 ERA. He had good k-rated but god awful BB-rates. He has really good stuff which is one reason he’s on this list. His fastball sits 91-94 with good movement. He has a good curveball as well which is his probably his best pitch. He has a spike grip on it. He rounds out his arsenal with a developing change up. DeLuca’s biggest weaknesses are his mechanics and his inconsistent release points. Once he figures it all out, watch out. He will probably start in SI again.

 

MLB Comparison- Gio Gonzalez

48- Rob Segedin – 3B/LF/RF – 22 – 6’3 / 220

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 3rd round of the 2010 draft. Segedin’s best tool is his bat. He gets into good hitter counts and is a very good ‘pure-hitter’. He doesn’t mind hitting behind in the count and can drive the ball well to the opposite field. He doesn’t have the power that one would expect from a 3B or a corner OF’er and that’s what limits his ceiling. Defensively, Segedin has a strong arm and projects to be a solid defender at both 3B and LF/RF. He got off to a great start in Charleston (.323 BA, .396 OBP) before getting a call-up to Tampa. He struggled there a bit. Tampa seems to be his starting team next season.

 

MLB Comparison- Melvin Mora

49- Wilmer Romero – OF – 17 – 6’1 / 185

Quote:

Signed out of Dominican Republic as a 16 year old in 2010. The top signee from 2010, Romero is a legit 5-tool prospect. His power grades out a 65-70 on the scout’s scale, he ran a 6.66 60 yard dash and his arm rivals Vladimir Guerrero’s. He’s this low on the list because of how young he is. It’s tough to properly project how well he will do until he comes to the US. He also struggled in the DSL this year. There isn’t much concern considering it was his first full season but we should, perhaps, temper our expectations for him. There is a chance he comes stateside next year but it’s also likely he spends another year in the DSL.

 

MLB Comparison- Carlos Beltran (that was the comparison when we signed him in 2010)

50- Rookie Davis – RHP – 18 – 6’4 / 235

Quote:

Drafted by the Yankees in the 14th round of the 2011 draft. A guy that might end up being the best pick from this 2011 draft class. Davis already has a legit pitcher’s body and some impressive stuff. The Yankees were obviously impressed and gave him an above slot deal, 550K, to sign. Davis throws a 4-seamer which sits 90-93. Most scouts feel that he can add another mile or two if he cleans up his mechanics. Davis also throws a curve and change. He’s more comfortable with his change right now but the curve is going to be his out pitch going forward. It has shown flashes but it’s still fairly inconsistent.

 

MLB Comparison- Ben Sheets

 

Honorable mentions (the next 30 in no particular order):

Quote:

Nik Turley, Daniel Burawa, Kyle Higashioka, Anderson Feliz, Eduardo Sosa, Kelvin De Leon, Shane Greene, Jose Pirela, Evan Rutckyj, Shaeffer Hall, Shane Brown, Fu Lin-Kuo, Matt Duran, Manny Barreda, Caleb Cotham, Mariel Checo, Austin Krum, Craig Heyer, Brett Gerritse, Branden Pinder, Robert Paullus, Daniel Camarena, Taylor Anderson, Justin James, Jordan Cote, Zachary Varce, Dan Brewer, Austin Jones, Josh Romanski, Prestan Claiborne.

[jacksonianmarch]

I have some qualms with the above...

 

Heathcott being compared with Gardner isnt a good comp. Slade hasnt proven he can steal bases with consistency, although he has the speed. And Heathcott has a lot more power than Gardner ever did.

 

JR Murphy's comp with Martin is also a little off. Murphy looks like he will have the better bat, but his defense still needs work. And we all know Martin's calling card is his glove.

 

Adams being top 15 I also have a little problem with. Adams has top notch talent, and I dont think the ceiling of Pedroia is off at all. It's just the ankle injury that continues to linger that dropped him in my mind

 

And in a system this deep, there is no room for ranking Ray Kruml. He has no chance in this organization

[Meh]

Slade should be comped to sizemore. A guy who can hit 25 homers, steal bases, low contact, high strikeouts, good if not great defense and injury concerns

[jacksonianmarch]

I think that is a good comp. Slade has 5 tool potential and will run through a wall to get the ball. Unfortunately, that is his problem, he keeps hurting himself diving and running into walls

[Meh]

I think that is a good comp. Slade has 5 tool potential and will run through a wall to get the ball. Unfortunately' date=' that is his problem, he keeps hurting himself diving and running into walls[/quote']

 

Personally I think they should ban Redbull and such drinks in the minors. You drink four or five of those and you're bouncing off walls, I don't know if Slade is drinking them but he's always so wired like Eric Brynes.

[jacksonianmarch]

I like his energy, I just wish he'd pull up a little instead of blowing his body out. Reminds me of Trot Nixon. He'd be injured yearly going all out. It's a 162 game marathon. He's gotta remember that

[jacksonianmarch]

Yankees declined Andrew Brackman's option, making him a FA. This concludes his Yankee career. He was a huge bust

[Palodios]

Yankees declined Andrew Brackman's option' date=' making him a FA. This concludes his Yankee career. He was a huge bust[/quote']

 

Cheers, here's to many more to come:thumbsup:

[Meh]

1. Jesus Montero C

2. Manny Banuelos LHP

3. Gary Sanchez C

4. Dellin Betances RHP

5. Mason Williams CF

6. Ravel Santana CF

7. Hector Noesi RHP

8. JR Murphy C

9. Slade Heathcott CF (I moved slade up one cause he's got a cool name haha)

10. Austin Romine C

11. Dante Bichette Jr 3B

12.Brett Marshall RHP

13. Adam Warren RHP

14. Tyler Austin 3B (Might be my favorite prospect)

15. Rafeal DePaula RHP (If he was in the states right now he might be 6th for me)

16. Angelo Gumbs SS/2B/CF (Predicting a 2011 breakout year)

17. David Phelps RHP

Hiroyuki Nakajima If he signs, then I'd throw him in here

18. Claudio Custodio SS

19. Cito Culver SS

20. Taylor Morton RHP (Morton and Mitchell was a coin flip for me, went with Morton cause he's younger)

21. Bryan Mitchell RHP

22. Jake Cave CF

23. David Adams 2B

24. Mark Montgomery RHRP

25. Jordan Cote RHP

26. Corban Joseph 2B

27. Zoilo Almonte OF

28. DJ Mitchell RHP

29. Ramon Flores LF

30. Greg Bird C

31. Matt Duran 3B

32. Isaias Tejada C

33. Graham Stoneburner RHP

34. Gabriel Encinas LHP

35. Jose Rosario 2B

36. Wilmer Romero CF (I've heard good things about him over the winter, big IFA signing from 2010 IIRC)

37. Chase Whitley RHRP

38. Melky Mesa OF

39. Abraham Almonte CF

40. Jose Ramirez RHP

41. Brandon Laird 3B (Never really liked him)

42. Nik Turley LHP

43. Rob Segedin 3B

44. Ben Gamel LF

45. Brandon Pinder RHRP

46. Daniel Camarena RHP

47. Yeicok Calderon RF ( might be too high on him, but love the name)

48. Evan Rutckyj LHP

49. Rookie Davis RHP

50. Mikey O'Brien RHP

51. Zach Nuding RHP

52. Robert Lyerly 1B/3B

53. Daniel Burawa RHRP

54. Jairo Heredia RHP

55. Daniel Lopez

56. Justin James OF

57. Brett Gerritse RHP

58. Josh Romanski LHP

59. Caleb Cotham RHP

60. Connor Mullee RHRP (I hope he comes back from his injury stronger than ever)

61. Eduardo Sosa OF

[jacksonianmarch]

I'd take Heredia off the list entirely. He just had another shoulder surgery. He's done as a starter as far as I am concerned

[Meh]

My prediction of the 2013 top prospects. I won't mention draft and ifa guys since I don't know who we'll pick up haha.

 

1. Manny Banuelos, I think he gets almost a full year in Triple-A. I can see Noesi and Betacnes being ahead of him in the DC and even to a lesser extent Warren and Phelps. He had kind of a meh year for a 'top prospect' but I think he really grows in terms of a pitcher this year.

2. Gary Sanchez, guy put up similar numbers to Xander of the Red Sox this year. I can see him starting in Tampa and ending his year in Trenton. I'm calling a 30 homerun season from him.

3. Mason Williams, I struggled to put him 2nd on the list. A true five tool talent.

4. Rafeal DePaula banking that he'll finally get his visa.

5. Jake Cave similar route Williams took.

6. Angelo Gumbs excited to see what this kid will do in a full season league.

7. Taylor Morton hoping for the best here!

8. JR Murphy Another solid year.

9. Dante Bichette Jr Won't be able to reproduce his 2011 season, but I see legit power numbers, everything else average.

10. Ravel Santana I can see a slow start, then turning it on towards the end.

 

I also predict Montero, Warren, Phelps, DJ Mitchell, Noesi, Betances and Zolio Almonte to graduate.

[jacksonianmarch]

Montero will graduate. Zoilo Almonte, in all likelihood will not. The Yanks still like him as a prospect, and bringing him up as anything more than an injury replacement would deaden his value. I hope Warren and Phelps both do not graduate. Well, I guess it depends on your definition. If you mean one game in the bigs, then maybe. But if you mean losing their rookie status, that'd be insane. If both of them lose their rookie status in 2012, then we're in deep trouble. I expect DJ Mitchell to be the swing man, so he'll lose his rookie status. Betances, I expect to be with us later in the season, but I am unsure if he will lose his rookie status in 2012. I think he and ManBan get one full year in AAA to settle in, then both graduate in 2013

[Meh]

Montero will graduate. Zoilo Almonte' date=' in all likelihood will not. The Yanks still like him as a prospect, and bringing him up as anything more than an injury replacement would deaden his value. I hope Warren and Phelps both do not graduate. Well, I guess it depends on your definition. If you mean one game in the bigs, then maybe. But if you mean losing their rookie status, that'd be insane. If both of them lose their rookie status in 2012, then we're in deep trouble. I expect DJ Mitchell to be the swing man, so he'll lose his rookie status. Betances, I expect to be with us later in the season, but I am unsure if he will lose his rookie status in 2012. I think he and ManBan get one full year in AAA to settle in, then both graduate in 2013[/quote']

 

I counted one of phelps/waren being traded. I just grouped that together. I think Almonte comes up and becomes the 4th OFer.

[diony]

How the hell is Brett Marshall ahead of Phelps and Warren on that list?

[Meh]

How the hell is Brett Marshall ahead of Phelps and Warren on that list?

 

Phelps is a backend of the rotation pitcher at best. He just gets hyped up cause he's closer to the majors. Warren I think could be a solid #3, but I think marshall could be a very good #3

[jacksonianmarch]

Phelps is a lot better than you give him credit for. He's got good stuff and has effectively dominated every level he's been at

[diony]

He's a rock solid 4th/5th starter. I'm sure he and Noesi had more upside than Nova back when Nova was a prospect.

[jacksonianmarch]

http://www.minorleagueball.com/2011/12/31/2673655/new-york-yankees-top-20-prospects-for-2012

 

 

1) Jesus Montero, C-DH, Grade A: What he did in the majors last year was not a fluke. It was at the high end of expectation, yes, and I wouldn't expect him to hit like that over 500 plate appearances at age 22. He may need some adjustment time, but his bat is truly outstanding and he wasn't just getting lucky. His glove isn't very good and while he's not a complete player in terms of contributing speed or defense, his hitting is so strong he still gets a Grade A from me.

 

2) Gary Sanchez, C, Grade B+: Excellent power production in full-season ball at age 18; that is rare. His glove needs work and he needs to take his career more seriously, but he has time to outgrow emotional immaturity.

 

3) Manny Banuelos, LHP, Grade B: Borderline B+. He got a B last year and I can't bump his grade up a notch given the command difficulties he had in Double-A. He's still a fine prospect, however, projecting as a number three starter if all goes well.

 

4) Dellin Betances, RHP, Grade B: Borderline B+. He's got plenty of stuff but command wobbles prevent the B+ at this time. Ceiling is a tad higher than Banuelos, but I'm less confident that he'll reach it. Depending on what happens with his command, he could develop into anything from a number two starter to a disappointing mop-up man.

 

5) Mason Williams, OF, Grade B: We need to see him higher than the New York-Penn League, but he showed progress with both the bat and the glove. Main question is how much power he'll develop. Grade may be a bit aggressive.

 

6) Dante Bichette, Jr, 3B, Grade B: Way ahead of where his father was at the same stage. Controls the strike zone well, doesn't strike out much for a young power hitter, and third base defense proved to be much better than expected.

 

7) David Phelps, RHP, Grade B-: I like him more than most people do. Has developed the secondary pitches needed to off-set the fastball, and was one of the few pitchers who didn't get killed in the Arizona Fall League. Could be a fourth starter if given a chance.

 

8) Ravel Santana, OF, Grade B-: Borderline C+. This grade assumes that the gruesome ankle injury doesn't permanently hurt his career. Very high ceiling with potent power/speed combo. High risk as most young tools players are. Yankees sources indicate that Santana's injury recovery is going well. He may start the season late, but is expected to retain 100% functionality.

 

9) Tyler Austin, 3B, Grade B-: Borderline C+. I don't know why this guy doesn't get more attention. Polished bat for a 19-year-old, defense needs work, has stolen 18 bases without getting caught in his career so far.

 

10) Adam Warren, RHP, Grade C+: Borderline B-: Often paired with Phelps. I like Phelps a little better even though Warren gets more press. For many teams Warren's ability to eat innings with decent stuff would get him a full rotation audition in 2012.

 

11) Austin Romine, C, Grade C+: I don't like Romine as much as a lot of other people do. His bat is stagnating and his performance doesn't match his reputation behind the plate, at least in terms of throwing out runners. Still, he should have a long career and at age 23 he can improve much further.

 

12) J.R. Murphy, C, Grade C+: Defense reports improving, but bat is erratic and he had adaptation issues in High-A before getting hurt. Still very young, 2012 would be his draft year if he had gone to college.

 

13) Cito Culver, SS, Grade C+: Good defensive reports, still very raw with the bat but was younger than most of his competition. Grade will rise when/if he makes offensive progress.

 

14) Brett Marshall, RHP, Grade C+: Fully recovered from Tommy John and had solid year in High-A. Good sinker, has cleaned up delivery, possible mid-rotation starter.

 

15) Slade Heathcott, OF, Grade C+: Has tools to rank as high as seven, but persistent shoulder problems are slowing his development. Power has been disappointing.

 

16) Angelo Gumbs, 2B, Grade C+: Makes a nice double play combo with Culver and they should move up together. Needs polish on both sides of the ball, but tools are here.

 

17) Nik Turley, LHP, Grade C+ Breakthrough candidate for 2012. Season ended early due to broken hand and as a result he doesn't get much attention. That will change if he brings the stuff and command he showed in Low-A forward to High-A. Mid-rotation upside.

 

18) Daniel Lopez, OF, Grade C+: Showed speed and some power potential in Gulf Coast League.

 

19) David Adams, 2B, Grade C: Has lost most of two seasons to injury. Average tools but should hit if his body lets him.

 

20) Ramon Flores, OF, Grade C; Draws walks, contributes touches of power and speed, but could end up stuck as a tweener.

 

OTHERS: Zoilo Almonte, OF; Miguel Andujar, 3B; Cesar Cabral, LHP; Dan Camarena, LHP; Jake Cave, OF; Jordan Cote, RHP; Claudio Custodio, SS; Rookie Davis, RHP; Matt Duran, 3B-1B; Ben Gamel, OF; Corban Joseph, 2B; Tommy Kahnle, RHP; George Kontos, RHP; Brandon Laird, RHP; Brad Meyers, RHP; Bryan Mitchell, RHP; D.J. Mitchell, RHP; Mark Montgomery, RHP; Brandon Pinder, RHP: Graham Stoneburner, RHP; Isaias Tejeda, C: Phil Wetherell, RHP; Chase Whitley, RHP.

 

[jacksonianmarch]

Sickels is interesting in how he rates players. His A level prospects are guys who will at worst be big league regulars and are destined for stardom. B level players are guys who could be stars but project to have solid big league careers. C level players are either interchangeable prospects at the upper levels of kids too deep in the minors to get a feel for where they will play out...

 

If you go based upon his rankings, then every player below AA should be a C, since without seeing these kids in the upper levels effectively takes away the assuredness you get by the criteria set forth to be a B or an A. So it is strange that 5 of our guys ranked B- or higher havent played in Tampa yet. Weird....

 

Here's my take on the list...

 

1. Montero- spot on. The bat will carry, his glove will always lag. At worst he's a big league 1b or DH, at best, he's an offense first catcher

 

2. Sanchez- quite possibly the second highest ceiling player in the system. I think he definitely has star power, but had a few hitches in his game last yr. Granted, he was 18 in long season, but I would not have him above Banuelos

 

3. Banuelos- I can understand having him as a B, but not for the reasoning set forth. I'd have it solely based on the command that he showed in 2011. His stuff is not middle of the rotation at all. He has elite stuff with command issues since he saw a velo bump. Not sure how a kid with 3 big league plus pitches and a 95mph fastball can have #3 starter stuff. That's absurd.

 

4. Betances- I'd have him as a B as well as I think his ultimate destination may be the pen. I agree that he has the higher upside compared to Banuelos and I agree that he has more hurdles than ManBan to cross to reach it.

 

5. Williams- I am fine with him being top 5. He was amazing last yr. Elite defense, great arm, elite baserunning, elite contact skills, minus power. He has all the tools of a gold glove caliber, leadoff hitting CFer. The only reason why he isnt challenging Montero for the top spot is that he hasnt even seen the long season leagues. He has plenty of chances to fizzle in the meantime.

 

6. Bichette- No qualms with him being top 10. The kid can rake, he can pick it and he has a great eye. He, like Williams, has the tools to be a middle of the order, solid defensive 3b at the big league level, but his proximity is his biggest issue

 

7. Phelps- Sickels is after my own heart here, I love Phelps as a prospect. He's not an ace, and I agree in his B- ranking. He's a guy who safely projects as a big league starter and has the upside of a #3. There is a lot to be said about that.

 

8. Santana- Not sure how he could downgrade Santana based on an injury that he should recover from by the time ST starts. He broke his ankle, gruesome or not, guys recover from it pretty well. This kid is undervalued still. He has 30-30 potential with a cannon in CF and the ability to play elite defense in CF. I'd have him above Bichette.

 

9. Austin- I am not the biggest believer in Austin. He mashes, but thats about it. He K's a fair amount, he doesnt really have a defensive position and his SBs were more due to his solid baserunning vs elite speed. In terms of skill, his power is the only thing that looks to be plus and his contact may get there. But he is a guy who looks to have a moderate ceiling, IMO. I could be wrong, but I am not sure his tools will translate well into the higher minors.

 

10. Warren- His stuff and endurance are better than Phelps, he lacks the polish Phelps has shown. No problem with him in the top 10, I do have a problem with him being a C. He will be a big leaguer for a long time barring injury. I just think he'll be dealt in the meantime

 

11. Romine- I can see where he is coming from, but SB% in the minors is a s***** stat to follow. Pitchers are typically working on something and holding runners isnt at the forefront. He is also a guy who based on his qualifications, should be a B. He safely projects as a defense first starting catcher who wont embarrass himself with the stick. He just isnt the masher people thought he was when he first came into the prospect forum.

 

12. Murphy- I am unsure how Sickels can kill the kid about his adjusting to High A when he only played 26 games. Its a SSS. Fact is, he improved his D significantly while starting at catcher full time and his bat showed enough to promote him. I am a big believer in his stick, not sure if he stays at C long term because he is so versatile. But his bat will play mostly anywhere. If he is moved off the position, his bat will pick up

 

13. Culver- I agree completely with Sickels here.

 

14. Marshall- throws ched, likely a reliever, no qualms with his report, but if he remains in the rotation, it is because his secondary pitches improve. And if his secondary pitches improve, his low 90s sinker and mid 90s 4 seamer will play into a top portion of the rotation role

 

15. Heathcott- The guys has tools to spare, he just cannot stay healthy. The power comment isnt really accurate since the guy just hasnt had a healthy shoulder since he started. If he can go a season without a shoulder surgery and still cannot hit for power, then I'd agree with him.

 

16. Gumbs- agree completely

 

17. Turley- shouldnt be top 20, IMO, not even close. But his SR is right on

 

18. Lopez- showed a 5 tool potential for a kid who was initially signed because he could make contact and run a 6.3 60 yd dash. The kid can fly.

 

19. Adams- agree on the spot, dont agree on the SR. He has tools to hit for gap power, a great eye and a good glove. He looks the part of an offense first starting 2b. Horrific foot injury has cost him two season. Intra-articular fractures a horrible. They arent as gruesome to look at, but are harder to recover from. His injury was much tougher to come back from than Santana's, even though Santana's looked worse

 

20. Flores- He's intriguing, but many are better.

 

Overall, not bad, but also a bit confusing

[suj11]

1. Jesus Montero C

2. Manny Banuelos LHP

3. Gary Sanchez C

4. Dellin Betances RHP

5. Mason Williams CF

6. Ravel Santana CF

7. Hector Noesi RHP

8. JR Murphy C

9. Slade Heathcott CF (I moved slade up one cause he's got a cool name haha)

10. Austin Romine C

11. Dante Bichette Jr 3B

12.Brett Marshall RHP

13. Adam Warren RHP

14. Tyler Austin 3B (Might be my favorite prospect)

15. Rafeal DePaula RHP (If he was in the states right now he might be 6th for me)

16. Angelo Gumbs SS/2B/CF (Predicting a 2011 breakout year)

17. David Phelps RHP

Hiroyuki Nakajima If he signs, then I'd throw him in here

18. Claudio Custodio SS

19. Cito Culver SS

20. Taylor Morton RHP (Morton and Mitchell was a coin flip for me, went with Morton cause he's younger)

21. Bryan Mitchell RHP

22. Jake Cave CF

23. David Adams 2B

24. Mark Montgomery RHRP

25. Jordan Cote RHP

26. Corban Joseph 2B

27. Zoilo Almonte OF

28. DJ Mitchell RHP

29. Ramon Flores LF

30. Greg Bird C

31. Matt Duran 3B

32. Isaias Tejada C

33. Graham Stoneburner RHP

34. Gabriel Encinas LHP

35. Jose Rosario 2B

36. Wilmer Romero CF (I've heard good things about him over the winter, big IFA signing from 2010 IIRC)

37. Chase Whitley RHRP

38. Melky Mesa OF

39. Abraham Almonte CF

40. Jose Ramirez RHP

41. Brandon Laird 3B (Never really liked him)

42. Nik Turley LHP

43. Rob Segedin 3B

44. Ben Gamel LF

45. Brandon Pinder RHRP

46. Daniel Camarena RHP

47. Yeicok Calderon RF ( might be too high on him, but love the name)

48. Evan Rutckyj LHP

49. Rookie Davis RHP

50. Mikey O'Brien RHP

51. Zach Nuding RHP

52. Robert Lyerly 1B/3B

53. Daniel Burawa RHRP

54. Jairo Heredia RHP

55. Daniel Lopez

56. Justin James OF

57. Brett Gerritse RHP

58. Josh Romanski LHP

59. Caleb Cotham RHP

60. Connor Mullee RHRP (I hope he comes back from his injury stronger than ever)

61. Eduardo Sosa OF

 

I am really routing for Connor. Hope he comes back stronger !

[jacksonianmarch]

Mullee has the goods. His stuff is amazing and he looked to be quite the steal before injuring his elbow. If he comes back as good or better, then we have our closer in waiting. He's that good

[jacksonianmarch]

Scout.com released their rankings....

 

Pertinent Yankees:

 

5. Montero

9. Banuelos

28. Betances

50. Sanchez

96. Williams

 

Pertinent Red Sox

42. Bogaerts

61. Kalish

63. Ranaudo

67. Swihart

68. Middlebrooks