2023 Official MLB Season Thread

[ThePeoplesChamp_]

Rumors about signing Bryce Harper.

Signs Gerardo Parra instead.

They always sign guys a few years too late.

 

[dland24]

Johnny Cueto's horse died. Sad. RIP.

 

[Bend_The_Knee]

Here's another Top 100 Prospects List, but by John Sickels of The Athletic:

Spoiler

John Sickels’ Top 100 prospects for 2019

By John Sickels Feb 11, 2019

74

Here is my current take on the Top 100 MLB prospects for 2019.

The list is tilted toward fantasy value but with some “real baseball” factors included. Rankings are based on sabermetric analysis as well as subjective factors including scouting reports, video, in-person observations (when possible), word of mouth and my own intuition and judgment. A list based entirely on “real baseball” factors or industry reputation would look rather different.

Like all prospect lists, this is a moving target. Your mileage may vary on any particular player depending on your time horizon and fantasy farm context.

1) Vladimir Guerrero Jr., 3B, Toronto Blue Jays, (Grade A): Very rare combination of bat speed, raw power, plate discipline and general polish belies his age; annihilated Double-A and Triple-A (.381/.437/.636) and just 19 years old; defense at third base isn’t terrible, in my opinion; arm works, but he may wind up at first base eventually if he loses too much range; ceiling: a cross between his father and Miguel Cabrera; ETA 2019.

2) Fernando Tatis Jr., SS, San Diego Padres, (Grade A): Originally signed by White Sox, traded to Padres for James Shields, a trade that will go down in infamy; hit .286/.355/.507 in Double-A at age 19, with 16 homers and 16 steals; you can make a good case for Tatis at No. 1 ahead of Vlad; explosive athlete with power, speed; doesn’t have Vlad’s supernatural strike zone judgment but is more athletic and has greater defensive value; ETA 2019.

3) Eloy Jiménez, OF, Chicago White Sox, (Grade A): Signed by Cubs in 2013, traded to Sox in 2017 and blossomed into their best hitting prospect, hitting .337/.384/.577 with 22 homers in Double-A/Triple-A; big improvements in pitch recognition and swing mechanics combined with 70-grade raw power give him little left to prove in the minors at age 22; would be No. 1 prospect in many classes; ETA 2019.

4) Wander Franco, SS, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade A): It is difficult for a rookie ballplayer to rank this high, but Franco hit a stunning .351/.418/.587 with 11 homers, 27 walks, and just 19 strikeouts in the Appalachian League and has the tools to back that up; switch-hitter with premium approach, excellent feel for the barrel, superb eye, growing power; glove needs polish, but he’s only 17; ceiling: Francisco Lindor; ETA 2021.

5) Forrest Whitley, RHP, Houston Astros, (Grade A): Top pitching prospect in baseball, first-round pick in ‘16, missed much of ‘18 with drug-abuse suspension and minor injuries but posted 3.76 ERA with 34/11 K/BB in 26 innings at Double-A; age 21, 94-98 fastball with movement, excellent change-up, good curve, slider, cutter, throws strikes; all the physical and mental attributes for a top-of-rotation arm; ETA late 2019.

6) Victor Robles, OF, Washington Nationals, (Grade A-): Missed much of ’18 with elbow injury but came back in mid-summer, hit .278/.356/.386 in 40 games in Triple-A, then .288/.348/.525 in 21 games in the majors; stole 22 bases combined; blazing speed and plus defense play immediately; still just 21; may be inconsistent in short term but with long-term, multi-category impact; ETA 2019.

7) Nick Senzel, INF, Cincinnati Reds, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2016 on verge of promotion to MLB last year when injuries struck, limiting him to 44 games in Triple-A; hit .310/.578/.509 before getting hurt; very polished, age 23; should hit for high batting average, high OBP, solid power; versatile glove; watch for spring health reports; ETA 2019.

Royce Lewis, SS, Minnesota Twins, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2017, still only 19 years old; hit .292/.352/.451 in A-ball with 14 homers, 28 steals; excellent athlete with undeniable speed and growing power; relatively polished approach at the plate should keep offense consistent; good chance to stay at shortstop long-term; ceiling: Barry Larkin; ETA 2021.

9) Kyle Tucker, OF, Houston Astros, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2015 hit .332/.400/.590 in Triple-A at age 21; 24 homers, 20 steals; hit just .141/.236/.203 in 28 MLB games, but nothing left to prove in minors, just needs to play; should impact with power and OBP; ETA 2019.

10) Alex Kirilloff, OF, Minnesota Twins, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2016, he missed ’17 with Tommy John surgery but came back healthy in ’18; destroyed A-ball at .348/.392/.578, 44 doubles, 20 homers; outstanding bat speed projects well for both average and power at higher levels; tools fit in right field but bat plays anywhere; ETA late 2020.

11) Jesus Luzardo, LHP, Oakland Athletics, (Grade A-): Third-round pick by Nationals in 2016, traded to A’s for Sean Doolittle; 2.88 ERA with 129/30 K/BB in 109 innings between A, Double-A, and Triple-A; plus fastball in mid-90s plays up due to contrast with excellent change-up, solid curve; throws strikes and will be ready soon; No. 2 starter potential; ETA 2019.

12) Mackenzie Gore, LHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2017, age 19, 4.45 ERA with 74/18 K/BB in 61 innings in A-ball; missed time with blisters; ERA misleadingly high; keys here are mid-90s fastball, full arsenal with strong slider, curve, change-up combo; usually throws strikes; excellent mound presence; No. 2 starter potential; ETA 2021.

13) Bo Bichette, SS, Toronto Blue Jays, (Grade A-): Second-round pick in 2016, still just age 20, hit .286/.343/.453 with 43 doubles, 11 homers, 32 steals in Double-A; some of those doubles may become homers eventually; steals bases with instinct and polish rather than pure straight-line speed; some risk he moves to second base but bat will certainly play there; ETA late 2019.

14) Brendan Rodgers, INF, Colorado Rockies, (Grade A)-: First-round pick in 2015, age 22, hit .268/.330/.460 with 17 homers, 12 steals in Double-A; more power than Bichette and will go into a friendlier home park but strike zone judgment needs more work; expect inconsistent OBP/BA, but power and Coors could mask approach issues; ETA late 2019.

15) Jo Adell, OF, Los Angeles Angels, (Grade A-): First-round pick in 2017, reached Double-A at age 19, hit .290/.355/.543 overall between Single-A and Double-A, with 20 homers, 15 steals; obvious power/speed impact potential; plate discipline needs tightening but so far it hasn’t hurt him; some risk but a very high ceiling; possible 20/20 type; ETA 2020.

16) Keston Hiura, 2B, Milwaukee Brewers, (Grade B+): First-round pick in 2017, age 22, hit .293/.357/.464 with 13 homers, 15 steals in Single-A and Double-A; draws praise for pure hitting skills and above-average power that may increase further; limited to second defensively but ready soon; ETA 2019.

17) Casey Mize, RHP, Detroit Tigers, (Grade B+): First-round pick in 2018 from Auburn, 3.95 ERA with 14/3 K/BB in 14 innings in A-ball after long college season; extremely polished with superior control, plus fastball, splitter, slider; won’t need long in minors; main worry is durability but future No. 2 starter if health holds; ETA 2020.

1 Dylan Cease, RHP, Chicago White Sox, (Grade B+): Sixth-round pick by Cubs in 2014, traded to Sox in Jose Quintana deal; 2.40 ERA with 160/50 K/BB in 124 innings in Single-A and Double-A, just 82 hits allowed; can hit 100 mph and regularly works at 96-97 mph; excellent curveball, but slider, change-up, and command can be erratic; has made good progress; No. 2 upside; ETA late 2019.

19) Ian Anderson, RHP, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): First-round pick in 2016, age 20, 2.49 ERA in 119 innings in Single-A and Double-A, 142/49 K/BB, with just two homers allowed; mid-90s fastball with above-average curveball and solid change-up; strong command for his age; looks like future workhorse; ETA 2020.

20) Brendan McKay, LHP, Tampa Bay Rays. (Grade B+): Age 23, first-round pick in 2017 from Louisville; 2.41 ERA in 78 innings in A-ball; 103/14 K/BB was spectacular; missed time with oblique injuries; excellent command of low-90s fastball, cutter, curveball, change; also a prospect as a first baseman but I think his future impact on the mound will be greater; ETA 2020.

SPECIAL CASE: Yusei Kikuchi, LHP, Seattle Mariners: Age 27, coming over from Japan after years of success with the Seibu Lions; best pitch is slider but has mid-90s fastball and full secondary arsenal; posted 3.08 ERA, 153/45 K/BB in 164 innings in 2018, and 1.97 ERA with 217/49 K/BB in 188 innings in 2017; not a typical prospect due to age and experience and thus doesn’t show up on many prospect lists, but he’s a rookie by MLB rules and should be an above-average starter; ETA 2019.

21) Alex Reyes, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals, (Grade B+): Age 24, long-time resident of top prospect lists but still a rookie due to injuries, missing 2017 with Tommy John and almost all of 2018 with lat injury; posted 0.00 ERA in 23 innings combined between four levels (including 4 IP with St. Louis) with 44/7 K/BB before getting hurt; where you rank him on the stairway depends on your risk tolerance but the song remains the same: Reyes is enormously talented, but can he stay healthy?; ETA 2019.

22) Brent Honeywell, RHP, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B+): Age 23, missed 2018 with Tommy John surgery; like Reyes, placement of Honeywell hinges on how you weigh injury concerns; mid-90s heater when healthy along with plus screwball, slider, change-up, command, make-up, all hallmarks of future No. 2 or strong No. 3 starter; ETA 2019.

23) Luis Urias, 2B, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Signed out of Mexico in 2013, hit .296/.398/.447 in Triple-A at age 21; 30 doubles, eight homers; hit .208 in 48 MLB AB but he’s better than that; solid doubles power with good eye at the plate, should provide plenty of OBP; very reliable with the glove at second; ready for the job; ETA 2019.

24) Francisco Mejia, C, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Age 23, acquired from the Indians last summer; hit .293/.338/.471 with 14 homers in Triple-A; .179 with three homers in 56 MLB AB; switch-hitter with genuine power, has tools to be solid defender though needs polish with receiving; still projects as a regular catcher if Padres are patient with the glove; ETA 2019.

25) Keibert Ruiz, C, Los Angeles Dodgers, (Grade B+): Age 20, signed out of Venezuela in 2014, hit .268/.328/.401 with 12 homers in Double-A; very young for the level; defense excellent, bat coming along with power and good contact hitting ability; projects as a regular, no question; could rank ahead of Mejia depending on how you value defense; ETA 2020.

26) Sixto Sanchez, RHP, Miami Marlins, (Grade B+): Age 20, signed by Phillies in 2015, limited to 47 innings in A-ball by sore elbow but dominated; 2.51 ERA with 45/11 K/BB; can hit 100 mph, and throws strikes with curve and change-up; very high ceiling but with significant questions about durability like many pitchers in his range; ETA 2021.

27) Chris Paddack, RHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Age 23, eighth-round pick in 2015, ridiculous numbers with 2.10 ERA, 120/8 K/BB in 90 innings in Single-A/Double-A; just 66 hits allowed; excellent change-up and insane control help low-90s fastball play up; mid-rotation projection but that may be underestimating him; ETA late 2019.

2 Mitch Keller, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates, (Grade B+): Age 22, second-round pick in 2014, excellent in Double-A (2.72, 76/32 in 86 innings) but wobbled some in Triple-A (4.82, 57/22 in 52, 59 hits); stuff is fine at 93-97 mph with a good curve but location and change-up inconsistent; No. 3 starter projection; ETA 2019.

29) A.J. Puk, LHP, Oakland Athletics, (Grade B+): Age 23, first-round pick in 2016, missed all of ’18 with Tommy John surgery; nasty power stuff with fastball up to 97, wicked slider, change-up showing good progress before injury; overpowering at his best with No. 2 upside; track spring health reports closely; ETA 2020.

30) Triston McKenzie, RHP, Cleveland Indians, (Grade B+): Age 21, comp-round pick in 2015, 2.68 ERA with 87/28 K/BB in 91 innings in Double-A; low-90s heater plays up due to plus curve, solid change-up and control, excellent mound presence; main worry is durability but has stuff and feel to be No. 3 starter; ETA late 2019.

31) Mike Soroka, RHP, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 21, first-round pick in 2015, posted 2.00 ERA in 27 innings in Triple-A, then 3.51 ERA in 26 innings in MLB with combined 52/13 K/BB but pitching time limited by shoulder trouble; heavy 92-94 fastball, slider, curve, change all solid, throws strikes; ready to be No. 3 type if health OK; ETA 2019.

32) Taylor Trammell, OF, Cincinnati Reds, (Grade B+): Age 21, comp-round pick in 2016, hit .277/.375/.406 in A-ball, with 25 steals, eight homers; enormously fun to watch in person with blazing speed, developing power, sharp defense despite questionable arm; could be top-of-the-order force; ETA late 2020.

33) Justus Sheffield, LHP, Seattle Mariners, (Grade B+): Age 22, first-round pick by Indians in ’14, traded to Yankees in ’16 then to Mariners this past fall; 2.48 ERA in Double-A/Triple-A with 123/50 K/BB in 116 innings, with 82 hits allowed; lively fastball into mid-90s, excellent slider, but change-up and overall command still spotty; expect ups-and-downs but mid-rotation upside; ETA 2019.

34) Kyle Wright, RHP, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 23, first-round pick in 2017 from Vanderbilt; 3.46 ERA with 133/51 K/BB in 138 innings in Double-A/Triple-A; classic right-handed starter with 94- to 97-mph fastball, curve, slider, change; all pitches very good, but command can be erratic; No. 3 starter projection with a chance to be more; ETA 2019.

35) Michael Kopech, RHP, Chicago White Sox, (Grade B+): Age 22, 3.70 ERA with 170/60 K/BB in 126 innings in Triple-A; hurt elbow and will miss ’19 with Tommy John surgery; 96-100 mph when healthy with vicious slider; tough to rank with the injury so YMMV (Your Mileage May Vary); ETA 2020?

36) Austin Riley, 3B, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 21, comp-round pick in 2015, hit .294/.360/.522 with 19 homers in Double-A/Triple-A; has issues with contact (129 whiffs) and approach but bat speed and power compensated so far; glove can stick at third base; could have short-term consistency issues but regular projection is obvious; ETA late 2019.

37) Yordan Alvarez, OF, Houston Astros, (Grade B+): Age 21, signed by Dodgers out of Cuba in 2016 then traded to Astros; hit .293/.369/.534 with 20 homers in Double-A/Triple-A; plus power from the left side combined with good strike zone judgment should make him consistently productive; not much speed but OBP and SLG are the draws here; ETA late 2019.

3 Touki Toussaint, RHP, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 22, first-round pick by Diamondbacks in 2014; famously electric arm took large step forward in ’18, with 2.38 ERA, 163/53 K/BB in 136 innings in Double-A/Triple-A; fanned 32 in 29 MLB innings with 4.03 ERA; still needs tighter control but fun to watch with mid-90s fastball and crazy-good curve; ETA 2019.

39) Hunter Greene, RHP, Cincinnati Reds, (Grade B+): Age 19, first-round pick in 2017, 4.48 ERA with 89/23 K/BB in 68 innings in Single-A before going down with sore elbow; surgery not needed however; 96-102 mph heat; fastball can be straight but slider and change coming along; dominant in weeks before the injury, still elite if healthy; ETA 2021.

40) Alex Verdugo, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers, (Grade B+): Age 22, second-round pick in 2014, hit .329/.391/.472 in Triple-A, then .260/.327/.377 in 77 MLB AB; polished hitter with enough bat speed to project additional power; not much left to prove at minor league level; should be .280, 20 homer bat at his peak; ETA 2019.

41) Jesus Sanchez, OF, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B+): Age 21, signed in 2014, hit .301/.331/.462 in Single-A but just .214/.300/.327 after moving up to Double-A; scouting reports remain positive; whip-like bat speed and high contact rate should lead to strong averages though he could use more patience; speed and arm fit in right field; ETA 2020.

42) Carter Kieboom, SS, Washington Nationals, (Grade B+): Age 21, first-round pick in 2016, hit .280/.357/.444 with 16 homers, 31 doubles in A/Double-A; stands out for bat speed and growing power; tools solid across the board as well as sound instincts; may wind up at second base but upside should not be underestimated; ETA 2020.

43) Gavin Lux, SS, Los Angeles Dodgers, (Grade B+): Age 21, first-rounder in 2016, hit .324/.399/.514 with 15 homers, 13 steals in Single-A/Double-A; already a polished hitter and added power with maturity; runs very well; probably 2B long term but should be very good there; ETA 2020.

44) Joey Bart, C, San Francisco Giants, (Grade B+): Age 22, first-round pick in 2018 out of Georgia Tech, hit .298/.369/.613 in short-season ball, with 13 homers in just 181 at-bats; college star had strong debut, and no question about power but needs some work with strike zone and defensive polish; we need to see him at higher levels but can be an impact player; ETA 2021.

45) Sean Murphy, C, Oakland Athletics, (Grade B+): Age 24, third-round pick in 2016, hit .288/.358/.498 in Double-A though missed time with hamate injury; solid hitter with good power potential; defense is excellent and will get him to the majors even if bat needs more development time; more short-term value than Joey Bart but ceiling isn’t quite as high, so rank accordingly depending on your context; ETA late 2019.

46) Danny Jansen, C, Toronto Blue Jays, (Grade B+): Age 23, 16th-round pick in 2013, hit .275/.390/.473 in Triple-A, and .247/.347/.32 in 81 MLB at-bats; very strong strike zone judgment helps him get to average power; throwing needs more work, but age and offensive potential auger well for long-term outlook; ETA 2019.

47) Yusniel Diaz, OF, Baltimore Orioles, (Grade B+): Age 22, acquired from Dodgers in Manny Machado deal, hit .285/.392/.449 with 11 homers, 12 steals, 59 walks in 354 at-bats in Double-A; nice approach, draws walks and makes consistent hard contact; still learning to tap his power but crushes on the right day; strong throwing arm and speed give him defensive value; ETA late 2019.

4 Peter Alonso, 1B, New York Mets, (Grade B+): Age 24, second-round pick in 2016, hit .285/.395/.579 with 36 homers in Double-A/Triple-A; dominant campaign boosted industry stock considerably; reputation is that he’s been held back by defensive questions but 70-grade power and patient approach proved impossible to ignore in these days of exit velocity lust; ETA 2019.

49) Jonathan India, 3B, Cincinnati Reds, (Grade B+): Age 22, first-round pick in 2018 (fifth overall), from University of Florida; hit .240/.380/.433 in Rookie ball and Single-A; balanced prospect with good plate discipline and growing power, strong glove at third but can also play short; few weaknesses overall, just needs to play; ETA 2021.

50) Matt Manning, RHP, Detroit Tigers, (Grade B+): Age 21, first-round pick in 2016, 3.29 ERA with 154/51 K/BB in 118 innings between A and Double-A; intimidating at 6’6″ with 92-96 mph heat; curveball is a strikeout pitch, change-up needs more work but has promise; No. 3 starter potential assuming continued command progress and good health; ETA 2021.

51) Andres Gimenez, SS, New York Mets, (Grade B+): Age 20, signed in 2015, hit .281/.347/.409 with 38 steals between Single-A and Double-A; line-drive hitter with mature approach for his age, above-average speed; projects as potent leadoff man, though more power may come in time; glove is also above-average but may move to second base regardless; ETA late 2020.

52) Cristian Pache, OF, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 20, signed in 2015, hit .279/.307/.410 in Single-A and Double-A with nine homers; plus speed, plus throwing arm, and average raw power that can increase further; plate discipline needs work and OBP will be an issue without adjustments; defense is Gold Glove caliber; upside: the 2013-2014 version of Carlos Gomez; ETA 2021.

53) Luis Patino, RHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Age 19, signed in 2016, breakout season in A-ball with 2.16 ERA, 98/24 K/BB, just 65 hits allowed in 83 innings; fastball is 92-98 mph with movement, hard slider, viable curve and change; overpowering in general, but needs more consistent command; No. 2 upside and reputation growing; ETA 2022.

54) DL Hall, LHP, Baltimore Orioles, (Grade B+): Age 20, first-round pick in 2017, 2.10 ERA with a 100/42 K/BB in Low-A; high-K, low-Hit profile with low/mid-90s fastball and plus curve; change-up and control need work but typical for his age; mid-rotation upside; ETA 2022.

55) Ke’Bryan Hayes, 3B, Pittsburgh Pirates, (Grade B+): Age 22, first rounder in 2015, hit .293/.375/.444 in Double-A; 31 doubles; not a home run guy yet but those may come eventually; strong sense for the zone, makes contact, outstanding defender at third base, with plus makeup; ETA 2020.

56) Nolan Jones, 3B, Cleveland Indians, (Grade B+): Age 20, second-rounder in 2016, hit .283/.405/.466 with 19 homers, 89 walks in A-ball; potent left-side power with high strikeout rate but lots of walks and has hit for average so far; glove needs work; ceiling: midway between Kyle and Corey Seager; ETA 2021.

57) Nick Madrigal, 2B, Chicago White Sox, (Grade B+): Age 21, first-rounder in 2018, hit .303/.353/.348 in 155 at-bats in Single-A; incredible bat-to-ball ability with good eye, speed, fine defense, pop to the gaps; won’t need much time; ETA 2020.

5 Luis Garcia, INF, Washington Nationals, (Grade B+): Age 18, hit .298/.336/.406 in Single-A, with 12 steals; not much power yet but extremely young and will get stronger; draws praise for approach, contact, bat speed, as well as defense; do not underestimate; ETA 2021.

59) Josh James, RHP, Houston Astros, (Grade B+): Age 25, obscure prospect a year ago but improved dramatically after sleep apnea treatment and workout program; 3.23 ERA in 114 innings in Double-A/Triple-A, 171/49 K/BB; 29/7 K/BB with 2.35 ERA in 23 innings in majors; fastball up to 100 mph; at his best when mixing in solid slider and change; can start or relieve and dominate in either role; get your sleep study done and get a CPAP; ETA 2019.

60) Isaac Paredes, INF, Detroit Tigers, (Grade B+): Age 19, signed by Cubs out of Mexico, traded to Tigers in 2017; hit .278/.359/.456 with 15 homers, 51 walks, just 76 strikeouts between Single-A and Double-A; very good approach with growing power and youth; shortstop for now but probably a 2B long-term, bat should play anywhere; underrated in general; ceiling: Dan Uggla; ETA 2021.

61) Brusdar Graterol, RHP, Minnesota Twins, (Grade B+): Age 20, posted 2.74 ERA with 107/28 K/BB in 102 innings in Single-A; stayed healthy after previous injury history; nasty slider, heavy heater in mid-90s, inconsistent change-up has potential; No. 3 starter upside with bullpen the backup plan; ETA 2021.

62) Adrian Morejon, LHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Age 19, signed out of Cuba in 2016, 3.30 ERA with 70/24 K/BB in 63 innings in Single-A; 95-mph fastball, plus change-up and developing curve; much more polish than most pitchers his age; main concern is workload/durability; No. 3 starter potential; ETA 2021.

63) Jon Duplantier, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks, (Grade B+): Age 24, third-rounder in 2016, 2.69 ERA in 67 innings in Double-A with 68/28 K/BB; dominance dates back to college with fastball up to 95 mph, plus slider and curve; strong mound presence; main problem is health; No. 3 starter talent but long track record of injuries knocks down his stock for many evaluators; ETA 2019.

64) Luis Robert, OF, Chicago White Sox, (Grade B+): Age 21, high-profile signing from Cuba, .269/.333/.360 in A-ball; stole 15 bases but injuries limited him to 186 at-bats and inhibited performance; no homers but scouts see considerable bat speed and power potential, projecting 20/20 possibilities; high ceiling but there’s risk; ETA 2020.

65) Ryan Mountcastle, 3B, Baltimore Orioles, (Grade B+): Age 21, hit .297/.341/.464 with 13 homers in Double-A; pure hitter with growing power, should contribute high batting averages; main problem is weak defense and poor arm; may move to left field; ETA 2020.

66) Nolan Gorman, 3B, St. Louis Cardinals, (Grade B+): Age 18, first-rounder in ’18, hit .350/.443/.664 in Rookie ball then .202/.280/.426 after moving up to Single-A, acceptable given that he was just weeks out of high school; massive power, 70-grade, with patient approach; might stick at third base but bat will play anywhere; ETA 2022.

67) Jared Kelenic, OF, Seattle Mariners, (Grade B+): Age 19, Mets first-rounder in ’18, traded to Mariners, hit .286/.371/.468 with 15 steals in Rookie ball; scouts project batting average, power, and speed, the complete package; main question is center defense plus simple need to prove out in full-season ball; ETA 2022.

6 Vidal Brujan, 2B, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B+): Age 20, switch-hitter with speed, swiped 55 bases in Low-A with .320/.403/.459 slash line, 63 walks; gap power may increase; impressive leadoff potential though needs to get more efficient with the stealing (caught 19 times); ETA 2021.

69) Ronaldo Hernandez, C, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B+): Age 21, hit .284/.339/.494 with 21 homers in Low-A; needs to improve receiving but has arm and athleticism to stick with more reps; bat looks very good especially for power; ETA late 2021.

70) Dakota Hudson, RHP, St. Louis Cardinals, (Grade B+): Age 24, first-rounder in 2016, posted 2.50 ERA in 112 innings in Triple-A with 87/38 K/BB, then 2.63 ERA in 27 innings in MLB; stands out for heavy sinker and hard slider, high ground-ball rate; set-up man for now but may start eventually; ETA 2019.

71) Christin Stewart, OF, Detroit Tigers, (Grade B+): Age 25, hit .263/.363/.488 with 25 homers in Triple-A, then .267/.375/.417 in 60 MLB at-bats; power and patience legitimate; older and with less athleticism than other guys in this range but a proven, consistent producer for power; ETA 2019.

72) Matthew Liberatore, LHP, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B+): Age 19, first-round pick in ’18, 1.38 ERA with 37/13 K/BB in 33 innings in Rookie ball; low-90s fastball, plus curve, slider and change-up too; early performance very good; No. 3 starter projection, perhaps more, but will need innings, etc.; should move up lists quickly as others graduate; ETA 2023.

73) Brady Singer, RHP, Kansas City Royals, (Grade B+): Age 22, first-round pick in 2018 from University of Florida, didn’t pitch in pro ball for workload reasons; successful college ace due to fastball/slider combo, will need reps for change-up but not expected to be long-term issue; No. 3 starter upside; ETA 2021.

74) Jordan Groshans, SS-3B, Toronto Blue Jays, (Grade B+): Age 19, first-round pick in 2018, hit .296/.353/.446 in Rookie ball; relatively polished hitter with projectable power in 6’4″, 190-pound body; likely a third baseman long term and a good one; maximal outcome comp: mixture of Ryan Zimmerman, David Wright, and Nick Castellanos; ETA 2022.

75) Logan Allen, LHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade B+): Age 21, 2.54 ERA in 149 innings, 151/51 K/BB in Double-A/Triple-A; low-90s fastball, very good change-up, breaking stuff decent by consensus but still seems underrated to me; viewed as possible No. 4 starter by many but that may be selling him short; ETA 2019.

76) Bryse Wilson, RHP, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B+): Age 21, 3.44 ERA with 143/36 K/BB in 126 innings between Single-A, Double-A, and Triple-A; often overlooked in pitching-rich Braves system but still an elite prospect; 92- to 96-mph fastball, strong slider and workable change; mid-rotation potential but would also be fine reliever; ETA 2019.

77) Victor Victor Mesa, OF, Miami Marlins, (Grade B+): Age 22, signed out of Cuba for over $5 million as Marlins rebuild farm system; scouts love his speed, defense, arm strength but opinions on the bat are mixed, particularly with power; watch spring reports closely for read on ETA.

7 Taylor Widener, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks, (Grade B): Age 24, 2.75 ERA with 176/43 K/BB, 99 hits allowed in 137 innings in Double-A; often overlooked but performance on-par with other elite prospects and he’s got enough stuff with low-90s, reliable slider, change-up, solid command to be a “sneak up on us” type; ETA 2019.

79) Jazz Chisholm, SS, Arizona Diamondbacks, (Grade B): Age 21, hit .272/.328/.513 with 25 homers, 17 steals in Single-A; exciting to watch with power/speed mix; broad-based fantasy potential but has strike zone issues to address at higher levels (149 whiffs against 39 walks); high risk, high reward; ETA late 2020.

80) Jonathan Loaisiga, RHP, New York Yankees, (Grade B): Age 24, 2.89 ERA with 67/8 K/BB in 56 innings in Single-A/Double-A; 5.11 ERA in 25 MLB innings with 33/12 K/BB; can start or relieve; mid-90s fastball with curve, change that flash plus; probably opens in Triple-A; has durability concerns; ETA 2019.

81) Tony Santillan, RHP, Cincinnati Reds, (Grade B): Age 21, second-round pick in 2015, posted 3.08 ERA in 149 innings between Single-A and Double-A, with 134/38 K/BB; fastball in mid-90s, and secondaries erratic but command took large step forward in ’18; don’t overlook him; ETA 2020.

82) J.B. Bukauskas, RHP, Houston Astros, (Grade B): Age 22, first-round pick in 2017, posted 2.14 ERA at five levels (finishing in Double-A) with 71/24 K/BB and just one homer allowed in 59 innings; overpowering with fastball and slider, change has progressed as well; future role remains unclear but talent obvious; ETA 2020.

83) Daulton Varsho, C, Arizona Diamondbacks, (Grade B): Age 22, comp-round pick in 2017, hit .286/.363/.451 in Single-A, with 11 homers, 19 steals in 304 at-bats while missing time with hamate injury; very athletic for a catcher; defense underrated and he has hit quite well so far; ETA late 2020.

84) Ryan Weathers, LHP, San Diego Padres, (Grade B): Age 19, first-round pick in ’18, 3.44 ERA in 18 innings, 18/4 K/BB between Rookie ball and Single-A; extremely polished for his age, working all quadrants with solid fastball, curve, change; can make older hitters look foolish; ETA 2021.

85) Drew Waters, OF, Atlanta Braves, (Grade B): Age 20, second-round pick in ’17 hit .293/.343/.476 in Single-A with nine homers, 23 steals; switch-hitter with plus speed and growing power, but needs tighter strike zone to be a leadoff man; ETA late 2021.

86) Alec Bohm, 3B, Philadelphia Phillies, (Grade B): Age 22, first-round pick in ’17, hit .224/.314/.290 in 107 at-bats in New York-Penn League; disappointing but scouting reports remain solid; expected to hit for both power and average; certainly has the physical tools to do it; ETA late 2021.

87) Dustin May, RHP, Los Angeles Dodgers, (Grade B): Age 19, third rounder in 2016, 3.39 ERA with 122/29 K/BB in 133 innings in Single-A/Double-A; heavy sinking fastball in mid-90s, mixed with curve, change, cutter; unusually good command from a 6’6″ pitcher; ETA 2020.

8 Brandon Lowe, 2B, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B): Age 24, hit .297/.391/.558 in Triple-A then .233/.324/.450 in 129 AB in majors; still retains rookie eligibility; power/patience seem entirely legitimate, and batting average may creep up eventually; should be solid regular; ETA 2019.

89) Miguel Amaya, C, Chicago Cubs, (Grade B): Age 19, hit .256/.349/.403 with 12 homers in A-ball; good defender who could be excellent in time; power took a step forward and he controls zone reasonably, giving breakout potential as a prospect; ETA 2021.

90) Corbin Martin, RHP, Houston Astros, (Grade B): Age 23, second-round pick in 2017, 2.51 ERA with 122/35 K/BB, just 88 hits allowed in 122 innings in Single-A/Double-A; low-90s heater with strong command of curve, slider, change; mid-rotation potential but easy to overlook in deep system; ETA 2020.

91) Hans Crouse, RHP, Texas Rangers, (Grade B): Age 20, second rounder in 2017, 2.47 ERA in 55 innings in Single-A, 62/19 K/BB, just 43 hits allowed; tops out at 98-99 mph, also has plus slider; off-speed stuff needs more work but expected to improve; could leap up the list as workload established; ETA 2021.

92) Franklin Perez, RHP, Detroit Tigers, (Grade B): Age 21, came over from Astros in 2017 Justin Verlander trade; missed most of 2018 with lat strain and shoulder soreness; mid-90s fastball with plus curve and solid control when healthy; potential No. 3 starter; ETA 2021.

93) Estevan Florial, OF, New York Yankees, (Grade B): Age 21, hit .283/.354/.361 with 16 steals in 294 at-bats in Single-A, but season shortened by hamate injury; exciting speed with more power than the SLG% implies, and swing can look raw; high-ceiling tools with commensurate risk; ETA 2021.

94) Garrett Hampson, INF, Colorado Rockies, (Grade B): Age 24, hit .311/.382/.462 with 36 steals in Triple-A, .275/.386/.400 in 40 MLB at-bats; draws walks, steals bases, can surprise with occasional power, and versatile; ETA 2019.

95) Nico Hoerner, SS, Chicago Cubs, (Grade B): Age 21, first rounder in 2018 from Stanford, hit .327/.450/.571 in 49 AB between Rookie ball and Single-A; very impressive in Arizona Fall League; excellent plate discipline with touches of speed and power; ETA 2021.

96) Griffin Canning, RHP, Los Angeles Angels, (Grade B): Age 22, second rounder in 2017, 1.97 ERA with 49/19 K/BB in 46 innings in Double-A, but 5.49, 64/22 with 68 hits in 59 innings in Triple-A; more human at the higher level; fastball 93-94 mph, full arsenal with curve, slider, change; throws strikes but could improve location; mid-rotation potential; ETA late 2019.

97) Nathaniel Lowe, 1B, Tampa Bay Rays, (Grade B): Age 23, 13th-round pick in 2016, broke out in ’18 with .330/.416/.568 with 27 homers, 68 walks, 90 whiffs between Double-A/Triple-A; altered swing to add loft, tap strength and power while maintaining strike zone command; ETA 2019.

9 Michael Chavis, 3B, Boston Red Sox, (Grade B): Age 23, first rounder in 2014, missed 80 games with PED suspension, but hit .298/.381/.538 in Double-A/Triple-A after returning; impact power with gradually improving approach; bat looks good but glove problematic; ETA 2019.

99) Julio Pablo Martinez, OF, Texas Rangers, (Grade B): Age 22, signed out of Cuba in 2018, hit .252/.351/.436 in Northwest League, with 11 steals, eight homers in 234 at-bats; lefty hitter with speed, patience, and more power than typical for a guy who is just 5’9″; ETA 2021.

100) Trevor Larnach, OF, Minnesota Twins, (Grade B): Age 21, first rounder in 2018 from Oregon State, hit .303/.390/.500 in Rookie ball and Single-A; strong strike zone judgment with plenty of bat speed and power after retooling swing in college; could advance more rapidly than many players with more press; ETA 2021.

Beyond the Top 100 – MLB Team Sleepers
Here are some prospect sleepers to consider for fantasy players working within deep farm system contexts.

The main idea is to identify minor-league prospects who are not currently listed on most aggregate top 100 prospect lists but who have breakout potential within the next two or three years.

Arizona Diamondbacks: Andy Yerzy, C; Emilio Vargas, RHP
Atlanta Braves: CJ Alexander, 3B; Huascar Ynoa, RHP
Baltimore Orioles: Adam Hall, SS; Brenan Hanifee, RHP
Boston Red Sox: Brandon Howlett, 3B; Kutter Crawford, RHP
Chicago Cubs: Carl Roederer, OF; Yovanny Cruz, RHP
Chicago White Sox: Luis Gonzalez, OF; Jimmy Lambert, RHP
Cincinnati Reds: Mike Siani, OF; James Marinan, RHP
Cleveland Indians: Brayan Rocchio, SS; Luis Oviedo, RHP
Colorado Rockies: Grant Lavigne, 1B; Justin Lawrence, RHP
Detroit Tigers: Wenceel Perez, SS; Elvin Rodriguez, RHP
Houston Astros: Luis Santana, SS; Jayson Schroeder, RHP
Kansas City Royals: Kyle Isbel, OF; Yefri Del Rosario, RHP
Los Angeles Angels: D’Shawn Knowles, OF; Patrick Sandoval, LHP
Los Angeles Dodgers: Miguel Vargas, 3B; Edwin Uceta, RHP
Miami Marlins: Jose Devers, SS; Zac Gallen, RHP
Milwaukee Brewers: Je’Von Ward, OF; Zack Brown, RHP
Minnesota Twins: Luis Arraez, INF; Jordan Balazovic, RHP
New York Mets: Shervyen Newton, SS; Simeon Woods-Richardson, RHP
New York Yankees: Antonio Cabello, OF; Roansy Contreras, RHP
Oakland Athletics: Jameson Hannah, OF; Brian Howard, RHP
Philadelphia Phillies: Luis Garcia, SS; David Parkinson, LHP
Pittsburgh Pirates: Calvin Mitchell, OF; Braxton Ashcraft, RHP
San Diego Padres: Xavier Edwards, SS; Pedro Avila, RHP
San Francisco Giants: Marco Luciano, SS; Logan Webb, RHP
Seattle Mariners: Dom Thompson-Williams, OF; Erik Swanson, RHP
St. Louis Cardinals: Dylan Carlson, OF; Johan Oviedo, RHP
Tampa Bay Rays: Moises Gomez, OF; Resly Linares, LHP
Texas Rangers: Jonathan Ornelas, INF; Yerry Rodriguez, RHP
Toronto Blue Jays: Samad Taylor, 2B; Hector Perez, RHP
Washington Nationals: Israel Pineda, C; Jake Irvin, RHP

Thanks. Will start reading in a bit.

 

[frink85]

Mega contracts are not good investments. I dont think is collusion. It's more like a market correction.

On MLBN the hosts had David Samson said the same thing, teams getting weary of giving out these mega contracts only to see crap return on them. They brought up Pujols and Heyward specifically. If you can get equal/almost equal stats for a lot less, you have to. Can’t get caught up in the big name.

 

[Bend_The_Knee]

How about non-guaranteed contracts?

I know the union would never approve it

 

[kingfoamnyc]

After year 4 of a 200 plus million dollar deal baseball needs to allow teams to restructure and pay the player the remaining balance in increments 4-5 mill over 30 years if their performance falls off a cliff. Have the first four years front loaded then Bobby Bonilla them

 

[macbk]

 

[RyGuy45]

On MLBN the hosts had David Samson said the same thing, teams getting weary of giving out these mega contracts only to see crap return on them. They brought up Pujols and Heyward specifically. If you can get equal/almost equal stats for a lot less, you have to. Can’t get caught up in the big name.

The big difference this year though is it's almost an unheard of age range of 26-34 if you sign Harper or Machado to an 8 year deal.

Side note, David Samson is a *%+& idiot and the fact that MLB actually had him on talking about any of this is embarassing.

 

[JCMojica24]

Just renewed the NT Champions League

Let me know if y’all are down for this season and we can go from there!

RyGuy45 @champcruthik nomnom @eracism @h3at23 @bigpat630 @Retroballer stick @suavamente
xxpizzo

 

[xxpizzo]

Nola

now thats how you keep an Ace around

 

[bishopstrongbow]

Nola

now thats how you keep an Ace around

Super team friendly deal as well

 

[nick.]

Nola

now thats how you keep an Ace around

Y'all got an absolute steal

 

[RyGuy45]

Just renewed the NT Champions League

Let me know if y’all are down for this season and we can go from there!

RyGuy45 @champcruthik nomnom @eracism @h3at23 @bigpat630 @Retroballer stick @suavamente
xxpizzo

In!
Any chance we take a look at adjusting some settings, or should we keep it all same?

Personally, I wouldnt mind a harder cap on weekly acquisitions

 

[JCMojica24]

In!
Any chance we take a look at adjusting some settings, or should we keep it all same?

Personally, I wouldnt mind a harder cap on weekly acquisitions

Oh yeah we def can make some changes I’m open to all suggestions. Once everyone is confirmed we can start discussing potential changes.

 

[xxpizzo]

In as well again

think buy in was $30 ? in for that again as well

 

[macbk]

Excellent deal for the Phillies. Nola is the goods, he came around something major in 2018.

 

[stick]

That Nola deal is a straight steal. Now please just throw the bank at Machado and Harper.

Also JCMojica24 I'm in for the fantasy league again.

 

[rolaholic]

 

[JCMojica24]

In as well again

think buy in was $30 ? in for that again as well

That Nola deal is a straight steal. Now please just throw the bank at Machado and Harper.

Also JCMojica24 I'm in for the fantasy league again.

It was 35 and we can keep it there if everyone wants.

 

[stick]

That's fine with me.

 

[mrdozo]

All I know is MLB should impose a signing deadline.

This **** is ridiculous. If you aren't signed by 2/17 when full squads have to show up then you aren't eligible to be signed until a certain date etc.or something.

You impose a signing deadline and you make your F.Agency more interesting. This **** is polar vortex cold. Then they wonder why they trail behind other sports as far as popularity.

2 of the top 10 players in the MLB at age 25 in a free agency year and there's little to no chatter / coverage on it.

****s wild

A deadline is a genius idea and will be a catalyst for the both parties involved. MLB should do it. You cant be upset with the teams tho, investing $300 million
Little to no chatter ?
Dude, every day theres an "update" on both Machado & Harper with no new info and speculation. Im tired of reading the updates on those 2 when there hasnt been any.

Mega contracts are not good investments. I dont think is collusion. It's more like a market correction.

I agree 100%
Players think committing $300 million to one player is easy and should be done quickly. Get outta here with that. Thats a lot of $ for any organization.

Im not surprised both those guys are still unsigned. I'd love to see what offers they've rejected.

 

[bishopstrongbow]

I mean from a Yankees standpoint, I wouldn't even bother with Manny.

Pay 275-300M to him, or continue to take advantage of the situation you have: Miguel Andujar who hit .298 27 Hrs 90+Rbis and is 23 years old on a rookie scale what 4-500k salary? You gotta milk that **** for all you can get. He's nowhere near Manny's potential all around but with the people in the lineup around him its GREAT team value. Baseball is being run by math and #'s now and that's simple math.

You could make a case for them going after Bryce though, they could use his bat from the left side.

mrdozo I meant little to no chatter in being that there's no REAL news. I mean as a WhiteSox fan I'm over here getting my rocks off to secret rawlings posts and Manny in a grainy video wit a Sox hat on taking cuts in the cage . I mean like actual news. It's all just B.S posturing from agents / teams and they are using these twitter guys as the voice to get their message out.

I don't blame the teams at all, math has started to run baseball. Simple math.

I think players are noticing it. I mean Nola took a BEYOND team friendly deal, just to guarantee his money, instead of reaching Free Agency at age 28? Crazy.
Just 4-5 Years ago Samardzjia got 20M's per year and he's nowhere near Nola level. Rumors that Arenado is willing to resign wit Colorado and is just asking for a fair deal.

Things have changed

 

[nomnom]

in!

does yahoo allow multiple owners btw, I know ESPN does. JCMojica24

 

[JCMojica24]

in!

does yahoo allow multiple owners btw, I know ESPN does. JCMojica24

Not sure. You trying to get multiple squads?

 

[nomnom]

Not sure. You trying to get multiple squads?

Nah, I wanna share the same team with a buddy haha.