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This year, I've changed the format of my ranking of the top 10 prospects in each organization. The criteria for organizing these lists are the same, but I've included a little more explanation of the state of the system, and discuss any prospects (top 10 and beyond) who might help the major-league team this year.
I've also folded the columns on sleeper prospects -- players who did not appear in the global top 100 but might make a big leap on to the middle of that list next year -- into these organizational reports, mentioning more than one prospect per team where it's warranted.
We'll start with the American League today and move to the National League tomorrow.
Houston Astros
Org rank: 4
Farm system overview
It's a big turnaround for Houston, a team that was last in these rankings just a few years ago and that saw virtually no return from the draft from 2005 through 2009, some of which look laughable in hindsight. Their 2010 draft class started to break through this year, their trade of Hunter Pence looks even better a year later, and they managed their bonus pool in the 2012 draft as well as any team. The big league club may be "Plan 9 from Outer Space" bad this year, but at least respectability is on the horizon.
2013 impact
Had Jonathan Singleton not been suspended for a second positive marijuana test, he would likely have spent four months or so as Houston's first baseman this year. Now he probably won't see the majors until late summer. Jarred Cosart, acquired in the Pence trade with Singleton and emerging prospect Domingo Santana, is always a candidate for a move to the bullpen, where his health and command issues won't be such a concern and where he could pitch in the majors immediately.
Sleeper
Aside from Santana, keep an eye on Teoscar Hernandez, a Dominican-born rightfielder with a great right-handed swing, a good body, and above-average or better run and throw tools.
Astros' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Carlos Correa, SS (24)
2. J. Singleton, 1B (32)
3. George Springer, OF (43)
4. D. DeShields Jr., 2B (83)
5. Jarred Cosart, RHP (86)
6. Mike Foltyniewicz, RHP
7. Robbie Grossman, LF
8. Lance McCullers Jr., RHP
9. Jonathan Villar, SS
10. Domingo Santana, OF
Los Angeles Angels
Org rank: 30
Farm system overview
The cupboard is nearly bare after years of trades, promotions, and lost draft picks, with the Angels the only team that didn't have a pick on the first day of the 2012 draft. Mike Trout and Jered Weaver, both first-rounders, are in the majors; Tyler Skaggs, a comp pick, and second-rounder Pat Corbin were traded for Dan Harenand are in the majors for Arizona. Their drafts have been fine but they've obtained almost nothing on the international front, with their top nine prospects right now all obtained through the draft.
2013 impact
Outfielder Kole Calhoun would be a great bench guy and extra outfielder, although the outfield in Anaheim is already fairly crowded. Lefty Nick Maronde will probably go to the minors to work as a starter, but he'd be an asset out of the 'pen if the need arises, as would their top selection in 2012, Florida Atlantic alum R.J. Alvarez, who has big stuff but a clear reliever's delivery.
Sleeper
I saw quite a bit of shortstop Jose Rondon in the Arizona Rookie League, one of the few age-appropriate players on a fairly old AZL Angels team; he's a shortstop with a wide stance but good hand-eye coordination, producing line drives and lots of contact. I should also make my annual mention of Taylor Lindsey, a fringy defensive second baseman who doesn't walk enough but has one of the sweetest swings in the minors.
Angels' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Kaleb Cowart, 3B (23)
2. Trevor Lindsey, 2B
3. C.J. Cron, 1B
4. Nick Maronde, LHP
5. Alex Yarbrough, 2B
6. Randal Grichuk, OF
7. Kole Calhoun, OF
8. Michael Clevinger, RHP
9. Cam Bedrosian, RHP
10. Jose Rondon, SS
Oakland Athletics
Org rank: 22
Farm system overview
The A's used a lot of rookies in 2012, led by Jarrod Parkerand Yoenis Cespedes, leaving the system a little thin after all of the graduations. They did restock with a strong draft, led by Addison Russell, a prep shortstop who raked in two short-season leagues and finished his first pro summer in full-season ball, something almost unheard of for a player taken out of high school. Their rookie-league club was loaded with a mixture of high-upside guys and lower-ceiling, high-probability guys, although most are too far away for serious top-100 consideration.
2013 impact
Dan Straily is ready to be someone's No. 5 starter now, with the hope that he might end up a league-average guy in a year or so; he led the minors in strikeouts last year without a real plus pitch, changing speeds well and throwing strikes. Grant Green could win the second base job after Jemile Weeks' abysmal 2012 season put his hold on the spot in jeopardy.
Sleeper
Nolan Sanburn had a first-round arm but slid to the second after a minor shoulder issue and because he's a sub-six-foot right-hander; he's got above-average velocity and an out-pitch curveball, earning comps to Ben Sheets and Roy Oswalt as someone who can succeed despite a lack of height because he can spin the ball and throw a lot of strikes.
Athletics' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Addison Russell, SS (10)
2. Sonny Gray, RHP
3. Michael Choice, OF
4. Dan Straily, RHP
5. Daniel Robertson, SS/3B
6. Miles Head, 3B/1B
7. Nolan Sanburn, RHP
8. Grant Green, 2B
9. Matt Olson, 1B
10. Renato Nunez, 3B
Seattle Mariners
Org rank: 8
Farm system overview
The Mariners still have starting pitching on the way, maybe not quite as potent a group as it appeared to have a year ago, but still enough that they're looking at a rotation surplus in the near term. Their first pick in 2012, catcher Mike Zunino, tore the cover off the ball in his pro debut, finishing in Double-A, and even if we discard those as small samples, on draft day he looked like someone who could move quickly to become a big-league regular.
2013 impact
Danny Hultzen had a horrid finish to his 2012 season, but he's healthy, and that puts him first in line for a big-league rotation job when one opens up, ahead of Brandon Maurer and James Paxton. Zunino should get there at some point this year, as should Nick Franklin if the team wants to swap out some defense for some offense at short. The bullpen could get a big jolt from Carter Capps, who doesn't get the press of Tigers relief prospect Bruce Rondon but is more ready to help a major league bullpen.
Sleeper
Victor Sanchez doesn't have the ideal body, listed at 6 feet and a big-boned 255 pounds, but he just turned 18 on Jan. 30 and already has a solid summer in the short-season Class A Northwest League under his belt. His arm works great and the stuff is already present, but the fastball command isn't quite where you want it to be yet. If you want a sleeper for the 2015 list, Brazilian lefty Luiz Gohara sits in the upper 80s with the shape and rotation for a plus curveball after a year or two in pro ball; he's got the size at 6-foot-3, 220 pounds, but will start the season at age 16 and has just begun getting real professional instruction.
Mariners' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Taijuan Walker, RHP (9)
2. Mike Zunino, C (15)
3. Danny Hultzen, LHP (66)
4. Nick Franklin, SS/2B (69)
5. Brandon Maurer, RHP
6. James Paxton, LHP
7. Victor Sanchez, RHP
8. Brad Miller, SS
9. Tyler Pike, LHP
10. Carter Capps, RHP
Texas Rangers
Org rank: 9
Farm system overview
They've got a few valuable, near-in guys in Jurickson Profar, Mike Olt, and the enigmatic Martin Perez, with righty Cody Buckel not too far behind. After that group, you have something of a gap until you get to the lower levels, where they had the Arizona Rookie League's strongest team of prospects, with a lineup full of possible impact bats. Their main international signing from 2012,Jairo Beras, hasn't even been able to play yet due to a one-year suspension that expires in July, although he'll be in extended spring training. They're probably thinner in pitching than they've been at any point in the last three or four offseasons, though.
2013 impact
Profar is ready to play everyday, but right now, he's blocked by Elvis Andrus at short andIan Kinsler at second. Kinsler could move to first for Profar to play second, which would make the team better right away. Olt is just as blocked, and moving him to first from third eats up a lot of his value, since he's a great defender. Perez has the stuff and might be worked in slowly this year if he starts off well in Triple-A. Wilmer Font may log some more big league time in a relief role, with a plus-plus fastball and a decent change.
Sleeper
The Rangers have a slew of candidates here, more than any team except maybe the Royals, but I was blown away by the changes Lewis Brinson made to his swing over the summer, setting up his hands a little lower and further back while shortening his stride, significantly improving his bat speed through the zone without any loss of power. His pitch recognition needs work, but he's got easy power from his hand strength, and as a plus runner who covers a lot of territory in center, he has star potential if he can show some mastery over the strike zone.
Rangers' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Jurickson Profar, SS (1)
2. Mike Olt, 3B (71)
3. Cody Buckel, RHP (90)
4. Martin Perez, LHP (93)
5. Lewis Brinson, OF
6. Nomar Mazara, OF
7. Joey Gallo, 3B
8. Jorge Alfaro, C
9. Luis Sardinas, SS
10. Luke Jackson, RHP
Chicago White Sox
Org rank: 28
Farm system overview
The team's selection of two prep players to start its 2012 draft was a great sign the White Sox might not be so reliant on lower-upside/higher-probability college guys under the new draft bonus system, which should help raise their rankings and make the system more productive in the future. First-rounder Courtney Hawkins is the most exciting position player prospect they've had in ages, and two pitchers from their 2011 class, Erik Johnson andScott Snodgress, had impressive full-season debuts and look like at least back-end starters.
2013 impact
Johnson is more likely than Snodgress to help the team this year, as he has more experience as a starter dating back to college. I also could see Brazilian right-hander Andre Rienzo contributing in at least a relief role, with an above-average fastball and plus cutter that could miss bats once through the order right away.
Sleeper
Snodgress can run it up to 96 mph with an above-average curveball and developing change, but as a reliever at Stanford, he didn't get the reps or develop the fastball command to be a fast-mover in pro ball. Chicago's top pick in 2011, outfielder Keenyn Walker, played hurt for much of his first pro season with knee and shoulder injuries but showed surprising patience and might have potential as a leadoff prospect.
White Sox's Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Courtney Hawkins, OF (74)
2. Carlos Sanchez, IF
3. Andre Rienzo, RHP
4. Trayce Thompson, CF
5. Erik Johnson, RHP
6. Scott Snodgress, LHP
7. Keenyn Walker, CF
8. Joey DiMichele, 2B
9. Jared Mitchell, OF
10. Chad Beck, RHP
Cleveland Indians
Org rank: 19
Farm system overview
The Indians have shortstops galore -- three or four of whom might end up as big league regulars in an optimistic scenario -- and a lot of young pitching that's three or four years away, but short-term help is really limited and they're very light on corner bats who'll have big offensive impact. Trading Shin-Soo Choo, who had a year left until free agency, for prospects was a good move, but they'll need to make a few more such conversions to jump-start the system.
2013 impact
Trevor Bauer, the main return for Choo, should go directly into their rotation. He needs to throw more strikes, especially when behind in the count, as big league hitters don't chase a lot of stuff out of the strike zone in fastball counts. Working with a more open coaching staff will help Bauer as well, as he was a poor fit with Kirk Gibson's desire for a team of clones.
Sleeper
Right-hander Danny Salazar came back from Tommy John, and gradually built up his velocity to where he was touching 99 mph and sitting 94-96 by year-end, with two average secondary pitches. He is not huge and needs to show he can pitch with that kind of raw stuff for a full season before I'd rank him as a top-100 guy.
Indians' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Francisco Lindor, SS (7)
2. Trevor Bauer, RHP (25)
3. Dorssys Paulino, SS (58)
4. Danny Salazar, RHP
5. Jose Ramirez, 2B/SS
6. Tyler Naquin, CF
7. Mitch Brown, RHP
8. Kieran Lovegrove, RHP
9. Ronny Rodriguez, SS
10. Tony Wolters, 2B/SS
Detroit Tigers
Org rank: 25
Farm system overview
Their system has been hit hard by trades and the loss of first-round picks by virtue of signing free agents -- their last top-40 pick was in 2009, and their highest pick in the past two drafts was 76th overall in 2011. They've swapped more than 20 minor leaguers the past few years in deals for major league players, which is a great use of a farm system but often hurts the club on snapshot rankings like mine. Right now, it's one premium bat, two risky guys who are big league ready and a lot of lottery-ticket types in the lower minors, some of whom are really intriguing but very far away.
2013 impact
Bruce Rondon throws 102 mph, which is pretty uncommon, but he doesn't command the ball thanks to a delivery with both effort and violence to it; he also has never thrown more than 55 innings in a season due to injuries. The Tigers seem determined to give him a chance in their major league 'pen this year, and he should at least miss some bats. Avisail Garcia might be an extra outfielder for them, but I'd like to see him play every day in the minors to see whether he can improve his plate discipline, allowing him to eventually get to some power.
Sleeper
Drafted in the 29th round in 2011 out of Coahoma Community College in Mississippi, right-hander Montreal Robertson has a great body at 6-foot-4, 220 pounds and an athletic delivery, and he'll show you 94-98 mph with some feel for his off-speed stuff. He lacks experience, especially against good competition, and the command isn't there yet, but his upside is tantalizing.
Tigers' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. N. Castellanos, RF/3B (38)
2. Avisail Garcia, RF
3. Bruce Rondon, RHP
4. Tyler Collins, OF
5. Danry Vasquez, OF
6. Eugenio Suarez, SS
7. Austin Schotts, CF
8. Jake Thompson, RHP
9. Casey Crosby, LHP
10. Montreal Robertson, RHP
Kansas City Royals
Org rank: 11
Farm system overview
Despite trading two of their top prospects, the Royals still just missed the top 10, a testament to how well they've drafted and developed the last few years, even if several of those players haven't yet made that key final adjustment to the majors. They're loaded with sleeper/breakout candidates, lots of guys you love when you see them even though you know, objectively, they're fairly low probability. Third baseman Cheslor Cuthbert fell off the top 100 this year after an abysmal 2012 season, in part the product of jumping out too often to try to go get the ball; I still love his swing and think his approach is good enough for him to eventually become an above-average regular.
2013 impact
If John Lamb is healthy -- he came back from 2011 Tommy John surgery this past August -- he could end up in the Royals' rotation in the second half of this year. Two minor league starters who could help the team in the bullpen this year: Yordano Ventura, who might sit near 100 mph in relief but doesn't have a consistent second pitch, and lefty Sam Selman, who had an awful spring at Vanderbilt in 2011 but gets it up to 97 with an arm action that looks more suited to relief.
Sleeper
Jorge Bonifacio is the biggest-upside hitter left in the system now that Wil Myers is gone. He's a high-contact guy who can murder a fastball and uses the whole field well when pitchers go off-speed. The Royals hope Adalberto Mondesi (Raul's son) is their Jurickson Profar, a shortstop with crazy instincts who makes in-game adjustments most players never learn how to make and who shows surprising power from wrist/forearm strength despite a modest frame.
Miguel Almonte works at 91-94 with a quick arm, flashing a plus change and curve, although I think he needs to use his lower half more. Kenny Diekroeger turned down first-round money out of high school from Tampa Bay, and if the Royals can undo the robotic mechanics he learned at Stanford, they might have a steal from their fourth-rounder. I could go on. It's a fun system.
Royals' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Kyle Zimmer, RHP (27)
2. Bubba Starling, CF (45)
3. Yordano Ventura, RHP
4. Jorge Bonifacio, OF
5. Adalberto Mondesi, SS
6. John Lamb, LHP
7. Jason Adam, RHP
8. Orlando Calixte, SS
9. Cheslor Cuthbert, 3B
10. Miguel Almonte, RHP
Minnesota Twins
Org rank: 2
Farm system overview
They're stacked, with center fielders, athletes, power bats and, in a new development for the Twins, a few power arms sprinkled in there as well -- this ain't your father's Twins system, packed with college command-and-control pitchers with 45-grade fastballs. They fared well in the trades of Denard Span and Ben Revere, and they went for upside in the 2012 MLB draft more than they'd done in the previous few seasons.
2013 impact
Aaron Hicks might be their everyday center fielder. I worry about his history of slow starts at new levels and what will happen if he makes a two-level jump to the majors, but his glove is ready and he will work the count. Kyle Gibsonis ready to start in the majors now with an above-average fastball, a plus slider and plus command, although he might not have 180 innings in him so soon after Tommy John surgery.
Sleeper
Jose Berrios is 92-94 with a hard downer curveball and feel for a change, although he doesn't get plane on the fastball and I don't love the arm action for a future starter. His pro debut was outstanding, as his stuff is probably ready for high Class A right now. German-born Max Kepler, long a favorite of mine, seemed to turn the corner this year with his approach and looks like he'll develop into a power-hitting corner outfielder who's above-average on defense.
Twins' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Miguel Sano, 3B (11)
2. Byron Buxton, CF (22)
3. Kyle Gibson, RHP (41)
4. Aaron Hicks, CF (49)
5. Oswaldo Arcia, OF (59)
6. Alex Meyer, RHP (61)
7. Eddie Rosario, CF/2B (65)
8. Jose Berrios, RHP
9. Max Kepler, OF
10. Trevor May, RHP
Baltimore Orioles
Org rank: 13
Farm system overview
The Orioles' system had dropped after a wave of promotions, including Matt Wieters and a passel of starting pitching prospects who have taken a few years to boost the big-league rotation. The 2012 season saw a big uptick in the value of what they had left in the minors --- Dylan Bundy emerged as the minors' best pitching prospect in 2012, while their first pick from last year's draft, Kevin Gausman, was one of the hottest names in Florida instructional league in September.
Several lower-round picks from 2012 also impressed in their pro debuts. They'd rank higher had Manny Machadonot lost his rookie eligibility in September, although it's a testament to how good he is that he could hold his own in the majors while learning a new position. Look for him to break out offensively in the next two seasons.
2013 impact
Bundy could help the team in long relief or in the rotation, depending on their long-term plan for him, which I hope involves letting him throw his wipeout cutter. LJ Hoes could surface in a bench role as a pinch hitter and reserve corner outfielder.
Sleeper
Nineteenth-rounder Josh Hader, a prep lefty out of a Maryland high school, added about 5 mph after signing, sitting 91-92 and touching 94 in two-inning stints in short-season ball, with a clean delivery from a low three-quarters slot and the ability to get to the breaking ball and changeup. Ninth-rounder Brady Wager, drafted out of Grand Canyon University, has a power sinker at 92-94 with a plus slider at 85-87 and could move very quickly as a reliever.
Orioles' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Dylan Bundy, RHP (3)
2. Kevin Gausman, RHP (26)
3. J. Schoop, 3B/2B (50)
4. E. Rodriguez, LHP (100)
5. Adrian Marin, SS
6. Nick Delmonico, 3B
7. Brendan Kline, RHP
8. L.J. Hoes, OF
9. Josh Hader, LHP
10. Brady Wager, RHP
Boston Red Sox
Org rank: 17
Farm system overview
A lot went right on the farm for Boston this year, with top prospect Xander Bogaerts making major strides on defense at shortstop, Jackie Bradley Jr., lighting everyone up with his plate discipline, and Matt Barnesand Henry Owens posting very strong full-season debuts. The system's real shortage is in big-league ready talent, with right-hander Allen Webster probably the closest, followed by Bradley, with anyone else who might debut this year a potential reserve or reliever at best.
Two of their biggest bonus signs from the last two drafts,Blake Swihart and Garin Cecchini, both bounced back after slow starts; I'd bet on at least one of the two making "the leap" in 2013, with Swihart the more likely of the two. Their system also has some intriguing second-tier prospects outside their top 10, like power-hitting first baseman Travis Shaw and the undersized defensive whiz Jose Vinicio, who makes hard line-drive contact now but will be challenged by better velocity unless he gets stronger.
2013 impact
Webster could help the team in the 'pen right now or as a mid-year rotation option if he can throw more strikes. Bradley is probably Jacoby Ellsbury's long-term replacement in center and could get a call-up this year, especially if Ellsbury is dealt. Lefty Drake Britton is the dark horse here, working at 94-97 at year-end with a four-pitch arsenal, and he could also break in as a reliever while he works on fastball command.
Sleeper
For future top-100 potential, pitcher Cody Kukuk and center fielder Manuel Margot are the best sleepers in the system. Kukuk missed much of the year after he was charged with driving under the influence, which was eventually dropped on a technicality; he's a big, physical lefty who sits in the low 90s with a possible out-pitch curveball. Margot can run and should be a plus defender in center, showing an unusually good approach for a prospect his age without any U.S. experience. Their 2012 fifth-round pick, Mike Augliera, works at 90-93 with plus sink and even better control, touching 95 in shorter outings but losing sink at the same time; he's most likely a reliever (and thus not a future top-100 guy) but could move quickly in that role.
Red Sox's Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Xander Bogaerts, SS (5)
2. Jackie Bradley Jr., CF (40)
3. Allen Webster, RHP (63)
4. Matt Barnes, RHP (79)
5. Henry Owens, LHP
6. Deven Marrero, SS
7. Blake Swihart, C
8. Gavin Cecchini, 3B
9. Zach Britton, LHP
10. Brian Johnson, LHP
New York Yankees
Org rank: 10
Farm system overview
The Yankees' system is top-heavy, with several elite prospects but not a ton of depth, led by the group of position players who started in low Class Charleston last year that could produce as many as three above-average or better regulars plus several other guys who'll have big-league value. The loss of Jose Campos for most of 2012 and for Manny Banuelos until 2014 hurts their pitching depth significantly, although the oft-injured Jose Ramirezwas extremely effective when healthy this year.
2013 impact
None of that elite group is likely to see the majors this year, so any impact would have to come from relievers like Mark Montgomery, whose 55-grade slider plays up to a 65-70 because hitters don't see it, and the fallen prospect Dellin Betances, who showed some signs of life as a one-inning reliever in the Arizona Fall League, airing it out and working around the zone a lot more than he can as a starter.
Sleeper
Their first-rounder in 2012, Ty Hensley, had a chance to go in the top 10, but was a casualty of the Pirates' last-minute decision to take Mark Appel; Hensley's physical revealed an abnormality in his shoulder that has never prevented him from reaching 98 mph, and if he can just show that kind of stuff and last for a 120-140 inning season in 2013, he's a likely top-100 guy. Yankees folks still love outfielder Ben Gamel's chance to hit and to show more power this year after adding some weight in his offseason conditioning program.
Yankees' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Gary Sanchez, C (18)
2. Mason Williams, CF (35)
3. Tyler Austin, RF (52)
4. Slade Heathcott, CF (56)
5. Ty Hensley, RHP
6. Jose Ramirez, RHP
7. Manny Banuelos, LHP
8. Jose Campos, RHP
9. Mark Montgomery, RHP
10. Angelo Gumbs, 2B
Tampa Bay Rays
Org rank: 3
Farm system overview
They're good, because they have to be. Some setbacks among high-profile prospects this year, like Hak-Ju Lee's mechanical issues at the plate and a few players getting suspended for using weed or speed, were balanced out by the James Shields trade, which netted two top-100 prospects and a former one, and strong full-season debuts by a few members of their 2011 draft class.
2013 impact
Wil Myers, acquired from Kansas City for Shields andWade Davis, has to get the majority of the playing time this year in right field, even if he starts the year in Triple-A to push back his free agency.Chris Archer will likely throw for the Rays in some role this year, with stuff that might be explosive in 1-2 inning stints, while Jake Odorizzi, also acquired from the Royals, is ready to pitch in the back of someone's rotation right now. The Rays aren't afraid to hand real playing time to their own prospects, but their pitching staff is pretty strong right now, so Archer, Odorizzi, Alex Colome, and their other arms may be waiting for opportunities.
Sleeper
Jake Hager just missed the Rays' top 10, but would have made most clubs' lists as a possible everyday shortstop who can handle it on defense while adding value with his bat. He struggled with plate discipline early in his first full pro year, but hit .295/.373/.443 in the second half, improving in every aspect of his game. He's got great feel for hitting and should grow into 15-homer power in time.
Rays' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Wil Myers, RF (4)
2. Taylor Guerrieri, RHP (47)
3. Chris Archer, RHP (53)
4. Jake Odorizzi, RHP (68)
5. Hak-Ju Lee, SS (78)
6. Alex Colome, RHP (81)
7. Richie Shaffer, 3B
8. Drew Vettleson, RF
9. Enny Romero, LHP
10. Mikey Mahtook, CF
Toronto Blue Jays
Org rank: 24
Farm system overview
There's almost no one left after the R.A. Dickey trade and the Marlins' fire-sale deal, although the Jays wouldn't deal top prospect Aaron Sanchez, who has the raw stuff and delivery to develop into an ace if he can develop average or better control. Their system's brightest lights after that are very young Latin American pitching prospects and the fruits of a value-packed 2012 draft.
2013 impact
If they want Marcus Stroman to pitch in their bullpen this year, he's ready, with a 92-95 mph fasttball and a knockout breaking ball (two, actually, that run together in velocity and break) and a solid change. John Stilson, who has a SLAP lesion in his shoulder and a violent delivery that won't hold up in a starting role, could also be pushed quickly to the majors, with now stuff that falls just below Stroman's. Lefty Sean Nolin could be their emergency starter this year, and Kevin Pillar could be the team's call-up if it needs an extra outfielder.
Sleeper
Catcher Santiago Nessy can really throw and has power, with a chance to be an above-average defensive catcher overall. He'll head to low Class A Lansing this year at age 20, with plate discipline the main thing he needs to work on right now. Lefty Daniel Norris' season was a disappointment overall, with his stuff still so inconsistent from start to start, but on the right day you'll see 94 mph with two above-average off-speed pitches.
Blue Jays' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Aaron Sanchez, RHP (19)
2. Robert Osuna, RHP (87)
3. Marcus Stroman, RHP
4. Matt Smoral, LHP
5. Sean Nolin, LHP
6. Anthony Alford, OF
7. D.J. Davis, OF
8. Adonys Cardona, RHP
9. Chase DeJong, RHP
10. Santiago Nessy, C
I've also folded the columns on sleeper prospects -- players who did not appear in the global top 100 but might make a big leap on to the middle of that list next year -- into these organizational reports, mentioning more than one prospect per team where it's warranted.
We'll start with the American League today and move to the National League tomorrow.
Houston Astros
Org rank: 4
Farm system overview
It's a big turnaround for Houston, a team that was last in these rankings just a few years ago and that saw virtually no return from the draft from 2005 through 2009, some of which look laughable in hindsight. Their 2010 draft class started to break through this year, their trade of Hunter Pence looks even better a year later, and they managed their bonus pool in the 2012 draft as well as any team. The big league club may be "Plan 9 from Outer Space" bad this year, but at least respectability is on the horizon.
2013 impact
Had Jonathan Singleton not been suspended for a second positive marijuana test, he would likely have spent four months or so as Houston's first baseman this year. Now he probably won't see the majors until late summer. Jarred Cosart, acquired in the Pence trade with Singleton and emerging prospect Domingo Santana, is always a candidate for a move to the bullpen, where his health and command issues won't be such a concern and where he could pitch in the majors immediately.
Sleeper
Aside from Santana, keep an eye on Teoscar Hernandez, a Dominican-born rightfielder with a great right-handed swing, a good body, and above-average or better run and throw tools.
Astros' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Carlos Correa, SS (24)
2. J. Singleton, 1B (32)
3. George Springer, OF (43)
4. D. DeShields Jr., 2B (83)
5. Jarred Cosart, RHP (86)
6. Mike Foltyniewicz, RHP
7. Robbie Grossman, LF
8. Lance McCullers Jr., RHP
9. Jonathan Villar, SS
10. Domingo Santana, OF
Los Angeles Angels
Org rank: 30
Farm system overview
The cupboard is nearly bare after years of trades, promotions, and lost draft picks, with the Angels the only team that didn't have a pick on the first day of the 2012 draft. Mike Trout and Jered Weaver, both first-rounders, are in the majors; Tyler Skaggs, a comp pick, and second-rounder Pat Corbin were traded for Dan Harenand are in the majors for Arizona. Their drafts have been fine but they've obtained almost nothing on the international front, with their top nine prospects right now all obtained through the draft.
2013 impact
Outfielder Kole Calhoun would be a great bench guy and extra outfielder, although the outfield in Anaheim is already fairly crowded. Lefty Nick Maronde will probably go to the minors to work as a starter, but he'd be an asset out of the 'pen if the need arises, as would their top selection in 2012, Florida Atlantic alum R.J. Alvarez, who has big stuff but a clear reliever's delivery.
Sleeper
I saw quite a bit of shortstop Jose Rondon in the Arizona Rookie League, one of the few age-appropriate players on a fairly old AZL Angels team; he's a shortstop with a wide stance but good hand-eye coordination, producing line drives and lots of contact. I should also make my annual mention of Taylor Lindsey, a fringy defensive second baseman who doesn't walk enough but has one of the sweetest swings in the minors.
Angels' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Kaleb Cowart, 3B (23)
2. Trevor Lindsey, 2B
3. C.J. Cron, 1B
4. Nick Maronde, LHP
5. Alex Yarbrough, 2B
6. Randal Grichuk, OF
7. Kole Calhoun, OF
8. Michael Clevinger, RHP
9. Cam Bedrosian, RHP
10. Jose Rondon, SS
Oakland Athletics
Org rank: 22
Farm system overview
The A's used a lot of rookies in 2012, led by Jarrod Parkerand Yoenis Cespedes, leaving the system a little thin after all of the graduations. They did restock with a strong draft, led by Addison Russell, a prep shortstop who raked in two short-season leagues and finished his first pro summer in full-season ball, something almost unheard of for a player taken out of high school. Their rookie-league club was loaded with a mixture of high-upside guys and lower-ceiling, high-probability guys, although most are too far away for serious top-100 consideration.
2013 impact
Dan Straily is ready to be someone's No. 5 starter now, with the hope that he might end up a league-average guy in a year or so; he led the minors in strikeouts last year without a real plus pitch, changing speeds well and throwing strikes. Grant Green could win the second base job after Jemile Weeks' abysmal 2012 season put his hold on the spot in jeopardy.
Sleeper
Nolan Sanburn had a first-round arm but slid to the second after a minor shoulder issue and because he's a sub-six-foot right-hander; he's got above-average velocity and an out-pitch curveball, earning comps to Ben Sheets and Roy Oswalt as someone who can succeed despite a lack of height because he can spin the ball and throw a lot of strikes.
Athletics' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Addison Russell, SS (10)
2. Sonny Gray, RHP
3. Michael Choice, OF
4. Dan Straily, RHP
5. Daniel Robertson, SS/3B
6. Miles Head, 3B/1B
7. Nolan Sanburn, RHP
8. Grant Green, 2B
9. Matt Olson, 1B
10. Renato Nunez, 3B
Seattle Mariners
Org rank: 8
Farm system overview
The Mariners still have starting pitching on the way, maybe not quite as potent a group as it appeared to have a year ago, but still enough that they're looking at a rotation surplus in the near term. Their first pick in 2012, catcher Mike Zunino, tore the cover off the ball in his pro debut, finishing in Double-A, and even if we discard those as small samples, on draft day he looked like someone who could move quickly to become a big-league regular.
2013 impact
Danny Hultzen had a horrid finish to his 2012 season, but he's healthy, and that puts him first in line for a big-league rotation job when one opens up, ahead of Brandon Maurer and James Paxton. Zunino should get there at some point this year, as should Nick Franklin if the team wants to swap out some defense for some offense at short. The bullpen could get a big jolt from Carter Capps, who doesn't get the press of Tigers relief prospect Bruce Rondon but is more ready to help a major league bullpen.
Sleeper
Victor Sanchez doesn't have the ideal body, listed at 6 feet and a big-boned 255 pounds, but he just turned 18 on Jan. 30 and already has a solid summer in the short-season Class A Northwest League under his belt. His arm works great and the stuff is already present, but the fastball command isn't quite where you want it to be yet. If you want a sleeper for the 2015 list, Brazilian lefty Luiz Gohara sits in the upper 80s with the shape and rotation for a plus curveball after a year or two in pro ball; he's got the size at 6-foot-3, 220 pounds, but will start the season at age 16 and has just begun getting real professional instruction.
Mariners' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Taijuan Walker, RHP (9)
2. Mike Zunino, C (15)
3. Danny Hultzen, LHP (66)
4. Nick Franklin, SS/2B (69)
5. Brandon Maurer, RHP
6. James Paxton, LHP
7. Victor Sanchez, RHP
8. Brad Miller, SS
9. Tyler Pike, LHP
10. Carter Capps, RHP
Texas Rangers
Org rank: 9
Farm system overview
They've got a few valuable, near-in guys in Jurickson Profar, Mike Olt, and the enigmatic Martin Perez, with righty Cody Buckel not too far behind. After that group, you have something of a gap until you get to the lower levels, where they had the Arizona Rookie League's strongest team of prospects, with a lineup full of possible impact bats. Their main international signing from 2012,Jairo Beras, hasn't even been able to play yet due to a one-year suspension that expires in July, although he'll be in extended spring training. They're probably thinner in pitching than they've been at any point in the last three or four offseasons, though.
2013 impact
Profar is ready to play everyday, but right now, he's blocked by Elvis Andrus at short andIan Kinsler at second. Kinsler could move to first for Profar to play second, which would make the team better right away. Olt is just as blocked, and moving him to first from third eats up a lot of his value, since he's a great defender. Perez has the stuff and might be worked in slowly this year if he starts off well in Triple-A. Wilmer Font may log some more big league time in a relief role, with a plus-plus fastball and a decent change.
Sleeper
The Rangers have a slew of candidates here, more than any team except maybe the Royals, but I was blown away by the changes Lewis Brinson made to his swing over the summer, setting up his hands a little lower and further back while shortening his stride, significantly improving his bat speed through the zone without any loss of power. His pitch recognition needs work, but he's got easy power from his hand strength, and as a plus runner who covers a lot of territory in center, he has star potential if he can show some mastery over the strike zone.
Rangers' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Jurickson Profar, SS (1)
2. Mike Olt, 3B (71)
3. Cody Buckel, RHP (90)
4. Martin Perez, LHP (93)
5. Lewis Brinson, OF
6. Nomar Mazara, OF
7. Joey Gallo, 3B
8. Jorge Alfaro, C
9. Luis Sardinas, SS
10. Luke Jackson, RHP
Chicago White Sox
Org rank: 28
Farm system overview
The team's selection of two prep players to start its 2012 draft was a great sign the White Sox might not be so reliant on lower-upside/higher-probability college guys under the new draft bonus system, which should help raise their rankings and make the system more productive in the future. First-rounder Courtney Hawkins is the most exciting position player prospect they've had in ages, and two pitchers from their 2011 class, Erik Johnson andScott Snodgress, had impressive full-season debuts and look like at least back-end starters.
2013 impact
Johnson is more likely than Snodgress to help the team this year, as he has more experience as a starter dating back to college. I also could see Brazilian right-hander Andre Rienzo contributing in at least a relief role, with an above-average fastball and plus cutter that could miss bats once through the order right away.
Sleeper
Snodgress can run it up to 96 mph with an above-average curveball and developing change, but as a reliever at Stanford, he didn't get the reps or develop the fastball command to be a fast-mover in pro ball. Chicago's top pick in 2011, outfielder Keenyn Walker, played hurt for much of his first pro season with knee and shoulder injuries but showed surprising patience and might have potential as a leadoff prospect.
White Sox's Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Courtney Hawkins, OF (74)
2. Carlos Sanchez, IF
3. Andre Rienzo, RHP
4. Trayce Thompson, CF
5. Erik Johnson, RHP
6. Scott Snodgress, LHP
7. Keenyn Walker, CF
8. Joey DiMichele, 2B
9. Jared Mitchell, OF
10. Chad Beck, RHP
Cleveland Indians
Org rank: 19
Farm system overview
The Indians have shortstops galore -- three or four of whom might end up as big league regulars in an optimistic scenario -- and a lot of young pitching that's three or four years away, but short-term help is really limited and they're very light on corner bats who'll have big offensive impact. Trading Shin-Soo Choo, who had a year left until free agency, for prospects was a good move, but they'll need to make a few more such conversions to jump-start the system.
2013 impact
Trevor Bauer, the main return for Choo, should go directly into their rotation. He needs to throw more strikes, especially when behind in the count, as big league hitters don't chase a lot of stuff out of the strike zone in fastball counts. Working with a more open coaching staff will help Bauer as well, as he was a poor fit with Kirk Gibson's desire for a team of clones.
Sleeper
Right-hander Danny Salazar came back from Tommy John, and gradually built up his velocity to where he was touching 99 mph and sitting 94-96 by year-end, with two average secondary pitches. He is not huge and needs to show he can pitch with that kind of raw stuff for a full season before I'd rank him as a top-100 guy.
Indians' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Francisco Lindor, SS (7)
2. Trevor Bauer, RHP (25)
3. Dorssys Paulino, SS (58)
4. Danny Salazar, RHP
5. Jose Ramirez, 2B/SS
6. Tyler Naquin, CF
7. Mitch Brown, RHP
8. Kieran Lovegrove, RHP
9. Ronny Rodriguez, SS
10. Tony Wolters, 2B/SS
Detroit Tigers
Org rank: 25
Farm system overview
Their system has been hit hard by trades and the loss of first-round picks by virtue of signing free agents -- their last top-40 pick was in 2009, and their highest pick in the past two drafts was 76th overall in 2011. They've swapped more than 20 minor leaguers the past few years in deals for major league players, which is a great use of a farm system but often hurts the club on snapshot rankings like mine. Right now, it's one premium bat, two risky guys who are big league ready and a lot of lottery-ticket types in the lower minors, some of whom are really intriguing but very far away.
2013 impact
Bruce Rondon throws 102 mph, which is pretty uncommon, but he doesn't command the ball thanks to a delivery with both effort and violence to it; he also has never thrown more than 55 innings in a season due to injuries. The Tigers seem determined to give him a chance in their major league 'pen this year, and he should at least miss some bats. Avisail Garcia might be an extra outfielder for them, but I'd like to see him play every day in the minors to see whether he can improve his plate discipline, allowing him to eventually get to some power.
Sleeper
Drafted in the 29th round in 2011 out of Coahoma Community College in Mississippi, right-hander Montreal Robertson has a great body at 6-foot-4, 220 pounds and an athletic delivery, and he'll show you 94-98 mph with some feel for his off-speed stuff. He lacks experience, especially against good competition, and the command isn't there yet, but his upside is tantalizing.
Tigers' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. N. Castellanos, RF/3B (38)
2. Avisail Garcia, RF
3. Bruce Rondon, RHP
4. Tyler Collins, OF
5. Danry Vasquez, OF
6. Eugenio Suarez, SS
7. Austin Schotts, CF
8. Jake Thompson, RHP
9. Casey Crosby, LHP
10. Montreal Robertson, RHP
Kansas City Royals
Org rank: 11
Farm system overview
Despite trading two of their top prospects, the Royals still just missed the top 10, a testament to how well they've drafted and developed the last few years, even if several of those players haven't yet made that key final adjustment to the majors. They're loaded with sleeper/breakout candidates, lots of guys you love when you see them even though you know, objectively, they're fairly low probability. Third baseman Cheslor Cuthbert fell off the top 100 this year after an abysmal 2012 season, in part the product of jumping out too often to try to go get the ball; I still love his swing and think his approach is good enough for him to eventually become an above-average regular.
2013 impact
If John Lamb is healthy -- he came back from 2011 Tommy John surgery this past August -- he could end up in the Royals' rotation in the second half of this year. Two minor league starters who could help the team in the bullpen this year: Yordano Ventura, who might sit near 100 mph in relief but doesn't have a consistent second pitch, and lefty Sam Selman, who had an awful spring at Vanderbilt in 2011 but gets it up to 97 with an arm action that looks more suited to relief.
Sleeper
Jorge Bonifacio is the biggest-upside hitter left in the system now that Wil Myers is gone. He's a high-contact guy who can murder a fastball and uses the whole field well when pitchers go off-speed. The Royals hope Adalberto Mondesi (Raul's son) is their Jurickson Profar, a shortstop with crazy instincts who makes in-game adjustments most players never learn how to make and who shows surprising power from wrist/forearm strength despite a modest frame.
Miguel Almonte works at 91-94 with a quick arm, flashing a plus change and curve, although I think he needs to use his lower half more. Kenny Diekroeger turned down first-round money out of high school from Tampa Bay, and if the Royals can undo the robotic mechanics he learned at Stanford, they might have a steal from their fourth-rounder. I could go on. It's a fun system.
Royals' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Kyle Zimmer, RHP (27)
2. Bubba Starling, CF (45)
3. Yordano Ventura, RHP
4. Jorge Bonifacio, OF
5. Adalberto Mondesi, SS
6. John Lamb, LHP
7. Jason Adam, RHP
8. Orlando Calixte, SS
9. Cheslor Cuthbert, 3B
10. Miguel Almonte, RHP
Minnesota Twins
Org rank: 2
Farm system overview
They're stacked, with center fielders, athletes, power bats and, in a new development for the Twins, a few power arms sprinkled in there as well -- this ain't your father's Twins system, packed with college command-and-control pitchers with 45-grade fastballs. They fared well in the trades of Denard Span and Ben Revere, and they went for upside in the 2012 MLB draft more than they'd done in the previous few seasons.
2013 impact
Aaron Hicks might be their everyday center fielder. I worry about his history of slow starts at new levels and what will happen if he makes a two-level jump to the majors, but his glove is ready and he will work the count. Kyle Gibsonis ready to start in the majors now with an above-average fastball, a plus slider and plus command, although he might not have 180 innings in him so soon after Tommy John surgery.
Sleeper
Jose Berrios is 92-94 with a hard downer curveball and feel for a change, although he doesn't get plane on the fastball and I don't love the arm action for a future starter. His pro debut was outstanding, as his stuff is probably ready for high Class A right now. German-born Max Kepler, long a favorite of mine, seemed to turn the corner this year with his approach and looks like he'll develop into a power-hitting corner outfielder who's above-average on defense.
Twins' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Miguel Sano, 3B (11)
2. Byron Buxton, CF (22)
3. Kyle Gibson, RHP (41)
4. Aaron Hicks, CF (49)
5. Oswaldo Arcia, OF (59)
6. Alex Meyer, RHP (61)
7. Eddie Rosario, CF/2B (65)
8. Jose Berrios, RHP
9. Max Kepler, OF
10. Trevor May, RHP
Baltimore Orioles
Org rank: 13
Farm system overview
The Orioles' system had dropped after a wave of promotions, including Matt Wieters and a passel of starting pitching prospects who have taken a few years to boost the big-league rotation. The 2012 season saw a big uptick in the value of what they had left in the minors --- Dylan Bundy emerged as the minors' best pitching prospect in 2012, while their first pick from last year's draft, Kevin Gausman, was one of the hottest names in Florida instructional league in September.
Several lower-round picks from 2012 also impressed in their pro debuts. They'd rank higher had Manny Machadonot lost his rookie eligibility in September, although it's a testament to how good he is that he could hold his own in the majors while learning a new position. Look for him to break out offensively in the next two seasons.
2013 impact
Bundy could help the team in long relief or in the rotation, depending on their long-term plan for him, which I hope involves letting him throw his wipeout cutter. LJ Hoes could surface in a bench role as a pinch hitter and reserve corner outfielder.
Sleeper
Nineteenth-rounder Josh Hader, a prep lefty out of a Maryland high school, added about 5 mph after signing, sitting 91-92 and touching 94 in two-inning stints in short-season ball, with a clean delivery from a low three-quarters slot and the ability to get to the breaking ball and changeup. Ninth-rounder Brady Wager, drafted out of Grand Canyon University, has a power sinker at 92-94 with a plus slider at 85-87 and could move very quickly as a reliever.
Orioles' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Dylan Bundy, RHP (3)
2. Kevin Gausman, RHP (26)
3. J. Schoop, 3B/2B (50)
4. E. Rodriguez, LHP (100)
5. Adrian Marin, SS
6. Nick Delmonico, 3B
7. Brendan Kline, RHP
8. L.J. Hoes, OF
9. Josh Hader, LHP
10. Brady Wager, RHP
Boston Red Sox
Org rank: 17
Farm system overview
A lot went right on the farm for Boston this year, with top prospect Xander Bogaerts making major strides on defense at shortstop, Jackie Bradley Jr., lighting everyone up with his plate discipline, and Matt Barnesand Henry Owens posting very strong full-season debuts. The system's real shortage is in big-league ready talent, with right-hander Allen Webster probably the closest, followed by Bradley, with anyone else who might debut this year a potential reserve or reliever at best.
Two of their biggest bonus signs from the last two drafts,Blake Swihart and Garin Cecchini, both bounced back after slow starts; I'd bet on at least one of the two making "the leap" in 2013, with Swihart the more likely of the two. Their system also has some intriguing second-tier prospects outside their top 10, like power-hitting first baseman Travis Shaw and the undersized defensive whiz Jose Vinicio, who makes hard line-drive contact now but will be challenged by better velocity unless he gets stronger.
2013 impact
Webster could help the team in the 'pen right now or as a mid-year rotation option if he can throw more strikes. Bradley is probably Jacoby Ellsbury's long-term replacement in center and could get a call-up this year, especially if Ellsbury is dealt. Lefty Drake Britton is the dark horse here, working at 94-97 at year-end with a four-pitch arsenal, and he could also break in as a reliever while he works on fastball command.
Sleeper
For future top-100 potential, pitcher Cody Kukuk and center fielder Manuel Margot are the best sleepers in the system. Kukuk missed much of the year after he was charged with driving under the influence, which was eventually dropped on a technicality; he's a big, physical lefty who sits in the low 90s with a possible out-pitch curveball. Margot can run and should be a plus defender in center, showing an unusually good approach for a prospect his age without any U.S. experience. Their 2012 fifth-round pick, Mike Augliera, works at 90-93 with plus sink and even better control, touching 95 in shorter outings but losing sink at the same time; he's most likely a reliever (and thus not a future top-100 guy) but could move quickly in that role.
Red Sox's Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Xander Bogaerts, SS (5)
2. Jackie Bradley Jr., CF (40)
3. Allen Webster, RHP (63)
4. Matt Barnes, RHP (79)
5. Henry Owens, LHP
6. Deven Marrero, SS
7. Blake Swihart, C
8. Gavin Cecchini, 3B
9. Zach Britton, LHP
10. Brian Johnson, LHP
New York Yankees
Org rank: 10
Farm system overview
The Yankees' system is top-heavy, with several elite prospects but not a ton of depth, led by the group of position players who started in low Class Charleston last year that could produce as many as three above-average or better regulars plus several other guys who'll have big-league value. The loss of Jose Campos for most of 2012 and for Manny Banuelos until 2014 hurts their pitching depth significantly, although the oft-injured Jose Ramirezwas extremely effective when healthy this year.
2013 impact
None of that elite group is likely to see the majors this year, so any impact would have to come from relievers like Mark Montgomery, whose 55-grade slider plays up to a 65-70 because hitters don't see it, and the fallen prospect Dellin Betances, who showed some signs of life as a one-inning reliever in the Arizona Fall League, airing it out and working around the zone a lot more than he can as a starter.
Sleeper
Their first-rounder in 2012, Ty Hensley, had a chance to go in the top 10, but was a casualty of the Pirates' last-minute decision to take Mark Appel; Hensley's physical revealed an abnormality in his shoulder that has never prevented him from reaching 98 mph, and if he can just show that kind of stuff and last for a 120-140 inning season in 2013, he's a likely top-100 guy. Yankees folks still love outfielder Ben Gamel's chance to hit and to show more power this year after adding some weight in his offseason conditioning program.
Yankees' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Gary Sanchez, C (18)
2. Mason Williams, CF (35)
3. Tyler Austin, RF (52)
4. Slade Heathcott, CF (56)
5. Ty Hensley, RHP
6. Jose Ramirez, RHP
7. Manny Banuelos, LHP
8. Jose Campos, RHP
9. Mark Montgomery, RHP
10. Angelo Gumbs, 2B
Tampa Bay Rays
Org rank: 3
Farm system overview
They're good, because they have to be. Some setbacks among high-profile prospects this year, like Hak-Ju Lee's mechanical issues at the plate and a few players getting suspended for using weed or speed, were balanced out by the James Shields trade, which netted two top-100 prospects and a former one, and strong full-season debuts by a few members of their 2011 draft class.
2013 impact
Wil Myers, acquired from Kansas City for Shields andWade Davis, has to get the majority of the playing time this year in right field, even if he starts the year in Triple-A to push back his free agency.Chris Archer will likely throw for the Rays in some role this year, with stuff that might be explosive in 1-2 inning stints, while Jake Odorizzi, also acquired from the Royals, is ready to pitch in the back of someone's rotation right now. The Rays aren't afraid to hand real playing time to their own prospects, but their pitching staff is pretty strong right now, so Archer, Odorizzi, Alex Colome, and their other arms may be waiting for opportunities.
Sleeper
Jake Hager just missed the Rays' top 10, but would have made most clubs' lists as a possible everyday shortstop who can handle it on defense while adding value with his bat. He struggled with plate discipline early in his first full pro year, but hit .295/.373/.443 in the second half, improving in every aspect of his game. He's got great feel for hitting and should grow into 15-homer power in time.
Rays' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Wil Myers, RF (4)
2. Taylor Guerrieri, RHP (47)
3. Chris Archer, RHP (53)
4. Jake Odorizzi, RHP (68)
5. Hak-Ju Lee, SS (78)
6. Alex Colome, RHP (81)
7. Richie Shaffer, 3B
8. Drew Vettleson, RF
9. Enny Romero, LHP
10. Mikey Mahtook, CF
Toronto Blue Jays
Org rank: 24
Farm system overview
There's almost no one left after the R.A. Dickey trade and the Marlins' fire-sale deal, although the Jays wouldn't deal top prospect Aaron Sanchez, who has the raw stuff and delivery to develop into an ace if he can develop average or better control. Their system's brightest lights after that are very young Latin American pitching prospects and the fruits of a value-packed 2012 draft.
2013 impact
If they want Marcus Stroman to pitch in their bullpen this year, he's ready, with a 92-95 mph fasttball and a knockout breaking ball (two, actually, that run together in velocity and break) and a solid change. John Stilson, who has a SLAP lesion in his shoulder and a violent delivery that won't hold up in a starting role, could also be pushed quickly to the majors, with now stuff that falls just below Stroman's. Lefty Sean Nolin could be their emergency starter this year, and Kevin Pillar could be the team's call-up if it needs an extra outfielder.
Sleeper
Catcher Santiago Nessy can really throw and has power, with a chance to be an above-average defensive catcher overall. He'll head to low Class A Lansing this year at age 20, with plate discipline the main thing he needs to work on right now. Lefty Daniel Norris' season was a disappointment overall, with his stuff still so inconsistent from start to start, but on the right day you'll see 94 mph with two above-average off-speed pitches.
Blue Jays' Top 10
Player, POS (Top 100 rank)
1. Aaron Sanchez, RHP (19)
2. Robert Osuna, RHP (87)
3. Marcus Stroman, RHP
4. Matt Smoral, LHP
5. Sean Nolin, LHP
6. Anthony Alford, OF
7. D.J. Davis, OF
8. Adonys Cardona, RHP
9. Chase DeJong, RHP
10. Santiago Nessy, C
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