2017 Prospect Projections (Running thread)

Prospect Projections for 2017

Intro

Greetings, everyone. I’ve decided to project where every top 10 prospect, within each respective organization will begin and end the 2017 season! I thought this comprehensive project will be fun and rewarding. Just a few notes. 1.) The top 10 prospects are taken from Baseball America. 2.) All rankings DO NOT reflect trades. Ex. Moncada is still ranked under Boston. 3.) I’ve added one HELIUM prospect for each system, along with their projections. 4.) Please provide any questions, comments or feedback if you’d like! 5.) Enjoy!


Arizona Diamondbacks

1. Anthony Banda, LHP
Begins: AAA Reno
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The Diamondbacks have one of the worst MLB systems and pitching is scant. Banda will be promoted to the show at some point.

2. Dawel Lugo, 3B
Begins: AA Jackson
Ends: MLB

Analysis: After being named to the 40 man roster, it’s all but certain when Lugo gets promoted to the show. September is the most likely time.

3. Domingo Leyba, SS/2B
Begins: AA Jackson
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Same as Lugo

4. Socrates Brito, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Even though he hit .179 in his brief MLB stint, Brito has great defensive ability to serve as Arizona’s 4th outfielder in 2017.

5. Jazz Chisholm, SS
Begins: Extended then Hillsboro (Short)
Ends: Hillsboro (Short)

Analysis: Chisholm has future utility written all over him, but he only played in Rookie ball last season.

6. Anfernee Grier, OF
Begins: Extended then Hillsboro
Ends: Low A Kane County

Analysis: Grier was handed $1.5 mil to sign due to his speed, but he’s incredibly raw

7. Taylor Clarke, RHP
Begins: AA Jackson
Ends: AAA Reno

Analysis: Clarke went from Low-A to AA in 2016. He’s not on the 40 man roster, but he has ceiling to force the D’Backs to promoting him to AAA.

8. Brad Keller, RHP
Begins: High-A Visalia
Ends: AA Jackson

Analysis: Keller had a rough go in the hitter friendly California League, but he will be ready for AA after a few starts.

9. Jon Duplantier, RHP
Begins: Kane County
Ends: High-A Visalia

Analysis: Even though he only threw one inning for Hillsboro, Duplantier is a 3rd round college arm. He should move quickly, but needs innings.

10. Curtis Taylor, RHP
Begins: Kane County
Ends: AA Jackson

Analysis: Like Duplantier, Taylor could move quickly and is more likely to reach AA due to being a fresh college arm.

HELIUM :

11.) Ryan January, C
Begins: Low-A Kane County
Ends: High-A Visalia

Analysis: January hit 10 homers for the Hops last season with a .197 ISO. That raw power could force the D’Backs to push the 18 year old fast.



Atlanta Braves

1. Dansby Swanson, SS
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Swanson has the potential to be a .280-.290 hitter this season.

2. Ozzie Albies, SS
Begins: AAA Gwinnett
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The Braves have been grooming Albies to play up the middle with Swanson. The promotion is inevitable.

3. Kolby Allard, LHP
Begins: High-A Florida
Ends: AA Mississippi

Analysis: The Double-A projection might be a stretch, but Allard has all of the tools necessary to handle an aggressive assignment by season’s end.

4. Mike Soroka, RHP
Begins: High-A Florida
Ends: AA Mississippi

Analysis: Like Allard, Soroka has all of the intangibles. However, Soroka’s control is impeccable and if he repeats his impressive 2016, Soroka will be in Double-A by midseason.

5. Ian Anderson, RHP
Begins: Low-A Rome
Ends: Low-A Rome

Analysis: Anderson will spend all year in Rome. He’s fresh out of high school, so the Braves will move him along slowly due to the wealth of advanced pitching talent in the system.

6. Ronald Acuna, OF
Begins: High-A Florida
Ends: AA Mississippi

Analysis: Acuna has the most ceiling in the system, to go along with 5 tool potential. Expect him to move quickly if he repeats 2016.

7. Kevin Maitan, SS
Begins: Extended, then GCL Braves
Ends: Danville (Rookie)

Analysis: Maitan will finish with Danville and attempt to cement his prospect hype. He’s still very young with raw tools.

8. Sean Newcomb, LHP
Begins: AA Mississippi
Ends: AAA Gwinnett

Analysis: Newcomb since coming over from LA has good stuff, but if he’s going to be a big leaguer his control and command must improve.

9. Patrick Weigel, RHP
Begins: AA Mississippi
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Weigel flew through the system in 2016, beginning with Rome and ending in AA. With an invite to spring training, the Braves like him a lot and could force his way to Atlanta.

10. Max Fried, LHP
Begins: High-A Florida
Ends: High-A Florida

Analysis: The Firefrogs rotation will feature Allard, Soroka, Toussaint and Fried. Expect the latter to stay in the FSL all season, due to lost development time.

HELIUM :

11. Matt Withrow, RHP
Begins: AA Mississippi
Ends: AAA Gwinnett

Analysis: Surprise, surprise. Another pitcher. Withrow isn’t overpowering, but he had more than a K per inning last year for Carolina. He must cut down on the walk rate, though.


Baltimore Orioles

1. Chance Sisco, C
Begins: AAA Norfolk
Ends: MLB

Analysis: One of the best hitting catchers, Sisco is close to MLB ready.

2. Cody Sedlock, RHP
Begins: Low-A Delmarva
Ends: AA Bowie

Analysis: The Orioles are notorious for being aggressive and ruining their pitching prospects. I’d expect Sedlock to be no different.

3. Ryan Mountcastle, SS
Begins: High-A Frederick
Ends: High-A Frederick

Analysis: Mountcastle is a good all around prospect, but in order to reach AA in 2017; he must rake.

4. Hunter Harvey, RHP
Begins: Disabled List
Ends: Arizona Fall League

Analysis: Havey will miss all of 2017 due to Tommy John surgery. He might get some AFL innings to prepare for 2018.

5. Trey Mancini, 1B
Begins: AAA Norfolk
Ends: MLB

Analysis: After an impressive showing in his brief MLB stint, expect Mancini to return to Norfolk.

6. Keegan Akin, LHP
Begins: Low-A Delmarva
Ends: High-A Frederick

Analysis: Akin has some of the best ceiling in the system. If the Orioles develop him as a reliever, he could reach AA instead. For now, he has all the tools to be a starter.



7. Austin Hays, OF
Begins: Low-A Delmarva
Ends: High-A Frederick

Analysis: Hays destroyed NYPL pitching last summer. He’s most likely a future 4th outfielder, but the Orioles can take their time developing him.

8. Jomar Reyes, 3B
Begins: High-A Frederick
Ends: AA Bowie

Analysis: Reyes took a major step back in 2016. If he makes adjustments, there’s no doubt he can reach AA.

9. Chris Lee, LHP
Begins: AAA Norfolk
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Lee is on the 40 man roster, so his promotion is inevitable. He’s not a big K guy, but he gets people out in typical reliever fashion.

10. Tanner Scott, LHP
Begins: AA Bowie
Ends: AAA Norfolk

Analysis: Scott had an awful 2016. His K per 9 ratio is a career 11.38, so there’s room for optimism.

HELIUM :

11. Garrett Cleavinger, LHP
Begins: High-A Frederick
Ends: AAA Norfolk

Analysis: After blowing away Low-A hitters, Cleavinger struggled at High-A with control. If he can iron that out, his fastball-curve combo is good enough for an aggressive promotion by season’s end.











TODAY: Boston, CHC and CWS


Boston Red Sox

1. Andrew Benintendi, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Because he didn’t reach the 130 at bat threshold, there’s a good chance Benintendi will win the AL Rookie of the Year.

2. Yoan Moncada, 3B/2B
Begins: AAA Charlotte
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Moncada needs a tad more seasoning in AAA after a brief MLB stint. He will be ready full time by mid May at the latest.

3. Rafael Devers, 3B
Begins: AA Portland
Ends: AA Portland

Analysis: Barring an offensive onslaught, Devers will stay all year in the Eastern League. Once Benintendi loses prospect status, he’ll be the crown jewel of the Red Sox system.

4. Michael Kopech, RHP
Begins: AA Birmingham
Ends: AAA Charlotte

Analysis: Kopech is becoming a celebrity by throwing a 3.5 ounce ball 110 MPH this offseason. He has the tools necessary to reach AAA and should make his MLB debut in 2018.

5. Jason Groome, LHP
Begins: Low-A Greenville
Ends: Low-A Greenville

Analysis: Groome has all the tools to become a great pitcher, but the Red Sox are destined to bring him along slowly and groom him (see what I did there?).

6. Sam Travis, 1B
Begins: AAA Pawtucket
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Before his season ended abruptly, Travis was projected to make his MLB debut. With a good spring training and some more seasoning, Travis is destined for a good 2017.

7. Mauricio Dubon, SS
Begins: AAA Colorado Springs
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Dubon can flat out hit. The trade to Milwaukee was the best thing for his future and with Arcia also at SS, the Brewers boast a wealth of infield talent up the middle.

8. Luis Alexander Basabe, OF
Begins: High-A Winston-Salem
Ends: AA Birmingham

Analysis: Another piece in the Chris Sale trade, Basabe along with Kopech and Moncada have bright futures in Chitown.

9. Bobby Dalbec, 3B
Begins: Low-A Greenville
Ends: High-A Salem

Analysis: Dalbec destroyed NYPL pitching last summer. He just missed mlbpipeline’s top 10 3B prospects list, but his raw power is something to behold.

10. Roniel Raudes, RHP
Begins: High-A Salem
Ends: AA Portland

Analysis: Overshadowed by Anderson Espinoza, Raudes has serious helium potential after holding his own as an 18 year old in Greenville last year.

HELIUM :

11. Mike Shawaryn, RHP
Begins: Low-A Greenville
Ends: AA Portland

Analysis: A 5th round college selection, Shawaryn had a pedestrian debut with Lowell. However, college pitchers in the Sox system tend to move quickly and Shawaryn has a good sinking action on his fastball to help him get to AA.



Chicago Cubs

1. Eloy Jimenez, OF
Begins: High-A Myrtle Beach
Ends: AA Tennessee

Analysis: Jimenez is baseball’s next super prospect. His showing in the 2016 Futures Game was quite indicative of what he can become.

2. Ian Happ, 2B/OF
Begins: AA Tennessee
Ends: AAA Iowa

Analysis: With the Cubs influx of young talent occupying big league spots, the Cubs can be patient with Happ.

3. Albert Almora, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Almora is there to stay after his World Series heroics.

4. Dylan Cease, RHP
Begins: High-A Myrtle Beach
Ends: High-A Myrtle Beach

Analysis: As the Cubs best pitching prospect, Cease will be developed slowly. He can be a number two starter if developed with care.

5. Oscar de la Cruz, RHP
Begins: High-A Myrtle Beach
Ends: AA Tennessee

Analysis: de la Cruz is being groomed as a reliever and is showing signs of promise. Already nearing 22 years of age, he’s ready for High-A.

6. Mark Zagunis, OF
Begins: AAA Iowa
Ends: MLB

Analysis: A former catcher, Zagunis has done nothing, but hit. Even if it’s a utility role, Zagunis will be ready.

7. Jeimer Candelario, 3B
Begins: AAA Iowa
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Candelario is ready for the show, but with Bryant at third for the next few years; he has nowhere to play. Regardless, he’s a good problem to have going forward.

8. Trevor Clifton, RHP
Begins: AA Tennessee
Ends: AAA Iowa

Analysis: Clifton doesn’t have overpowering stuff, but he is a workhorse. He’s not on the 40 man, so he’ll have to earn his keep.

9. D.J. Wilson, OF
Begins: Low-A South Bend
Ends: High-A Myrtle Beach

Analysis: Wilson has some serious wheels and with a good start in Low-A, Wilson will follow a similar path that Donnie Dewees took in 2016.

10. Jose Albertos, RHP
Begins: Extended then Eugene
Ends: Eugene (Short)

Analysis: The 17 year old had a brief stint in the Arizona Rookie League in 2016. Expect the Cubs to test him this season in short season ball.

HELIUM :

11. Thomas Hatch, RHP
Begins: Low-A South Bend
Ends: High-A Myrtle Beach


Chicago White Sox

1. Zack Collins, C
Begins: AA Birmingham
Ends: AA Birmingham

Analysis: Collins is a very good hitter, but his defense is shoddy. Expect the White Sox to take time developing him. If he switches to first base; however, he could make it to AAA Charlotte ahead of schedule.

2. Zack Burdi, RHP
Begins: AAA Charlotte
Ends: MLB

Analysis: No one flew through the system like Burdi did in 2016 going from rookie ball to AAA. There’s no doubt he’s almost ready for the bigs.

3. Carson Fulmer, RHP
Begins: AAA Charlotte
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Whether he sticks as a starter or a reliever, Fulmer is almost ready for the majors full time after a brief stint in 2016.

4. Spencer Adams, RHP
Begins: AA Birmingham
Ends: AAA Charlotte

Analysis: Adams has the tools to stick at starter and should get one step closer to the majors in 2017.

5. Alec Hansen, RHP
Begins: Low-A Kannapolis
Ends: High-A Winston Salem

Analysis: The 2016 2nd round pick needs more innings under his belt before spending the rest of 2017 in the Carolina League.

6. Jordan Stephens, RHP
Begins: AA Birmingham
Ends: AAA Charlotte

Analysis: Like Adams, will remain a starter and will continue developing in Birmingham.

7. Trey Michalczewski, 3B
Begins: AA Birmingham
Ends: AA Birmingham

Analysis: After a rough go at AA in 2016, Michalczewski will repeat the level. There’s still time for his ascension.

8. Jameson Fisher, OF
Begins: Low-A Kannapolis
Ends: High-A Winston Salem

Analysis: The 4th rounder in 2016 is ready to reach High-A after hitting .343 at Great Falls.

9. Alex Call, OF
Begins: High-A Winston Salem
Ends: AA Birmingham

Analysis: He’s scrappy, hits well and gets on base. Even though he’s most likely a future utility option, Call is what they look like in terms of his passion and baseball IQ.

10. Jake Peter, OF/2B
Begins: AAA Charlotte
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Even though he’s not on the 40 man roster, Peter is an advanced milb utility option that doesn’t strikeout a lot and should reach the show.

HELIUM :

11. Micker Adolfo, OF
Begins: Low-A Kannapolis
Ends: High-A Winston Salem

Analysis: Once a highly touted prospect, injuries have derailed him. If healthy, Adolfo has the tools to make everyone a believer again.

Today: CIN, CLE & COL



Cincinnati Reds

1. Nick Senzel, 3B
Begins: AA Pensacola
Ends: AAA Louisville

Analysis: Senzel is a hitting machine. There’s no doubt he will be the Reds opening day third baseman come 2018.

2. Cody Reed, LHP
Begins: AAA Louisville
Ends: MLB

Analysis: After a rough MLB stint, Reed will get some more seasoning in AAA with a quick promotion back to Cincinnati.

3. Amir Garrett, LHP
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Garrett is ready for the show after faring quite well in AAA last season.

4. Robert Stephenson, RHP
Begins: AAA Louisville
Ends: MLB

Analysis: With a triple digit fastball and a devastating curve ball, Stephenson just needs to refine his command and control.

5. Taylor Trammell, OF
Begins: Extended then Billings (Short)
Ends: Low-A Dayton

Analysis: Fresh out of high school, Trammell needs some more seasoning in extended spring. He should reach short season when it opens in June.

6. Jesse Winker, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Although his power potential has dropped like a rock, Winker still hit over .300 at Louisville last year. He’s ready for an MLB role with a good spring training.


7. Aristides Aquino, OF
Begins: AA Pensacola
Ends: AA Pensacola

Analysis: After a breakout 2016 with 23 home runs, Aquino is ready for an aggressive assignment to AA.

8. Sal Romano, RHP
Begins: AAA Louisville
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Romano is now on the 40 man roster, so a promotion will come at some point. Most likely towards September call ups. He was one of the most consistent pitchers in the Reds system last year.

9. Vladimir Gutierrez, RHP
Begins: Extended then Billings
Ends: High-A Daytona

Analysis: Gutierrez received $4.5 million to sign in late 2016 from Cuba. The Reds will start him off slow, but the sky’s the limit.

10. Tyler Stephenson, C
Begins: Low-A Dayton
Ends: High-A Daytona

Analysis: Stephenson missed some time last year with injuries and only hit .219. Since he’s a catcher, crucial development time was lost. I wouldn’t be surprised if he stayed in Low-A all season.

HELIUM :

11. Isaiah White, OF
Begins: Low-A Dayton
Ends: High-A Daytona

Analysis: Just coming over from the Marlins system, White is incredibly fast. If his pitch recognition improves, his ceiling will only increase in 2017.


Cleveland Indians

1. Francisco Mejia, C
Begins: AA Akron
Ends: AAA Columbus

Analysis: Last year’s hit streak king will open up in Akron after an impressive showing in Lynchburg. There’s an outside shot he makes it to the majors, but then Indians should develop him slowly. They have a good one on their hands.

2. Bradley Zimmer, OF
Begins: AAA Columbus
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Zimmer had a rough second half at AAA last year, including his awful 43% strikeout rate. Zimmer is not on the 40 man roster, so he’s going to have to earn his keep.

3. Triston McKenzie, RHP
Begins: High-A Lynchburg
Ends: AA Akron

Analysis: McKenzie has a fastball that’s the real deal. If he’s as dominant in 2017, there’s no doubt a quick promotion to Akron is in the cards. It would be aggressive, but McKenzie has a lot of ceiling.

4. Brady Aiken, LHP
Begins: Extended, then Low-A Lake County
Ends: Low-A Lake County

Analysis: Aiken, fresh off of TJ surgery won’t move quickly through the system in 2017. The Indians will take time developing him.

5. Bobby Bradley, 1B
Begins: AA Akron
Ends: AA Akron

Analysis: Bradley needs to cut down on the K rate and will spend all season working on his plate discipline at Akron.

6. Yu-Cheng Chang, SS
Begins: AA Akron
Ends: AA Akron

Analysis: Cheng is most likely a utility option down the road and is an incredibly good defender. He just needs to cut down on the strikeouts.

7. Will Benson, OF
Begins: Extended then Mahoning Valley (Short)
Ends: Mahoning Valley (Short)

Analysis: Benson, a Georgia outfielder has been often compared to Jason Heyward. Benson is incredibly raw, but offers some pop in his bat.

8. Nolan Jones, 3B
Begins: Extended then Mahoning Valley (Short)
Ends: Mahoning Valley (Short)

Analysis: Like Benson, Jones will follow a similar path. However, Jones fared better with a .259 average in the rookie level Arizona League. I’d like to see Jones hit for more average due to his lack of power.

9. Erik Gonzalez, SS/2B
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Gonzalez will serve as a backup to Kipnis and Lindor in Beliveland.

10. Greg Allen, OF
Begins: AA Akron
Ends: AAA Columbus

Analysis: Allen is a speedster that won it all with Akron last year. Expect him to continue his quest for Cleveland’s 4th outfielder role.

HELIUM :

11. Shane Bieber, RHP
Begins: Low-A Lake County
Ends: AA Akron

Analysis: After pitching to a 0.38 ERA with Mahoning Valley in 2016, Bieber will be ready for full season ball. He’s not overpowering, but he could very well be Cleveland’s most consistent minor league starter in 2017.


Colorado Rockies

1. Brendan Rodgers, SS/2B
Begins: High-A Lancaster
Ends: AA Hartford

Analysis: If Rodgers repeats his 2016 season to begin the year at High-A, he will be playing for Hartford by midseason.

2. Riley Pint, RHP
Begins: Extended then Boise (Short)
Ends: Boise (Short)

Analysis: With a 103 MPH fastball, Pint has an electric arm and knockout curveball. The Rockies should take their time with him, but it wouldn’t be fout of place to see him pitching for Low-A Asheville if the Rockies decide to go that route.

3. Jeff Hoffman, RHP
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: If Hoffman has a good spring training, he’s going to Colorado. If not, he’ll wind up there again at some point as he’s already had more than a cup of coffee at Coors.

4. Raimel Tapia, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Tapia hit .263 with Colorado down the stretch. With his good defensive ability, he’ll stick in the majors all season.

5. German Marquez, RHP
Begins: AAA Albuquerque
Ends: MLB

Analysis: After an ugly brief MLB stint, Marquez needs more time to develop. He will return to Coors, though.

6. Ryan Castellani, RHP
Begins: AA Hartford
Ends: AA Hartford

Analysis: Castellani had a decent season in 2016 and he will move that much closer in 2017.

7. Tom Murphy, C
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: With two previous MLB stints under his belt, the time is now for Murphy.

8. Kyle Freeland, LHP
Begins: AAA Albuquerque
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Freeland is ready to see some big league competition. He’s not on the 40 man, so he must prove his worth.

9. Ryan McMahon, 3B/1B
Begins: AA Hartford
Ends: AAA Albuquerque

Analysis: McMahon struggled in 2016, so a brief return to AA will do him some good.

10. Antonio Senzatela, RHP
Begins: AA Hartford
Ends: MLB

Analysis: After missing most of 2016 with various injuries, Senzatela will return to Hartford. He’s on the 40 man, so expect him to make his Coors Field debut later in the year.

HELIUM :

11. Salvador Justo, RHP
Begins: High-A Lancaster
Ends: AA Hartford

Analysis: He’s not the most overpowering guy, but Justo gets people out. He’s going to play most of 2017 as a 22 year old, so there’s a lot of time for his development.

Today: DET, HOU & KCR

Detroit Tigers

1. Matt Manning, RHP
Begins: Extended then Connecticut (Short)
Ends: Low-A West Michigan

Analysis: Manning almost averaged two K’s per inning in his GCL debut last summer. The Tigers are going to take their time with him in 2017.

2. Christin Stewart, OF
Begins: AA Erie
Ends: AAA Toledo

Analysis: Stewart can flat out rake, but his lack of defensive ability will keep him out of the majors for just one more year.

3. Beau Burrows, RHP
Begins: High-A Lakeland
Ends: High-A Lakeland

Analysis: Burrows is ready for more advanced competition after pitching to a respectable 3.15 ERA last year.

4. Tyler Alexander, LHP
Begins: AA Erie
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Alexander went from Short Season Connecticut to AA Erie in his first full Milb season. He’s not on the 40 man roster, but he should find his way to the majors by season’s end.

5. Kyle Funkhouser, RHP
Begins: High-A Lakeland
Ends: AA Erie

Analysis: Funkhouser will be developed as a reliever in the near future. If that happens this year, there’s an outside shot he finishes with AAA Toledo by the end.

6. JaCoby Jones, OF/3B
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The speedy outfielder is ready to stick in the show all season. The Tigers will most likely use him in the outfield moreso.

7. Mike Gerber, OF
Begins: AAA Toledo
Ends: AAA Toledo

Analysis: With 18 homers at AA Erie in 2016, Gerber is ready for a greater challenge.

8. Adam Ravenelle, RHP
Begins: AA Erie
Ends: AAA Toledo

Analysis: After a rough go at his first taste of AA baseball, Ravenelle looks to rebound in 2017.

9. Steven Moya, OF
Begins: AAA Toledo
Ends: MLB

Analysis: With two MLB stints under his belt, Moya will look to return to Comerica after beginning with the Mud Hens.

10. Derek Hill, OF
Begins: High-A Lakeland
Ends: High-A Lakeland

Analysis: After two stints with Low-A West Michigan, it’s time for the speedy Hill to move on.

HELIUM:

11. Mark Ecker, RHP
Begins: High-A Lakeland
Ends: AAA Toledo

Analysis: The Tigers 5th round pick out of Texas A&M missed a lot of bats between two levels in 2016 as a reliever. Expect him to move quickly if he progresses as planned.

Houston Astros

1. Francis Martes, RHP
Begins: AAA Fresno
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Martes exploded on the scene and went from Low-A to AA in just two seasons. He’s ready for tougher competition and should be pitching for the Astros as early as midseason.

2. Kyle Tucker, OF
Begins: High-A Buies Creek
Ends: AA Corpus Christi

Analysis: Tucker is one of the most enticing prospects in the game. With a solid start, he’ll reach AA by midseason.

3. David Paulino, RHP
Begins: AAA Fresno
Ends: MLB

Analysis: After a brief MLB stint, Paulino will return to Fresno after posting a 5.14 ERA in 7 MLB games.

4. Franklin Perez, RHP
Begins: High-A Buies Creek
Ends: High-A Buies Creek

Analysis: As an 18 year old in Low-A, Perez averaged 10.13 strikeouts per 9 innings. He’s ready for the Carolina League.

5. A.J. Reed, 1B
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: His .163 average last year wasn’t pretty, but Reed’s advanced plate discipline should keep him in the majors all year if he starts off with a convincing spring training.

6. Forrest Whitley, RHP
Begins: Extended then Tri City (Short)
Ends: Low-A Quad Cities

Analysis: After getting off to a rough start in the GCL, Whitley rebounded nicely with Greenville. Expect him to make his full season debut later in 2017.

7. Teoscar Hernandez, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: In 100 at bats with Houston last year, Hernandez posted a .190 ISO. Even if he sticks as a 4th outfielder, Hernandez is ready to stick in the show.

8. Yulieski Gurriel, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The 32 year old “rookie” will spend all of 2017 in Houston after posting a .262 average in 130 at bats in his first taste of the bigs.

9. Derek Fisher, OF
Begins: AAA Fresno
Ends: AAA Fresno

Analysis: With very little wiggle room in Houston’s outfield, Fisher will repeat Fresno. There’s a chance he’s added to the 40 man soon, but I doubt it.

10. Garrett Stubbs, C
Begins: AA Corpus Christi
Ends: AAA Fresno

Analysis: Stubbs only struck out 48 times in 326 at bats across two levels last season and hit .325. He will return to AA, but don’t expect him to be there for long.

HELIUM:

11. Myles Straw, OF
Begins: High-A Buies Creek
Ends: AA Corpus Christi

Analysis: Straw is arguably one of the fastest guys in the system. He also hit .374 in Low-A and followed that up by hitting .303 in 19 games with the JetHawks last season. He will return to the new High-A affiliate in Buies Creek, but his overall game should force the Astros hand to promote him.


Kansas City Royals

1. Josh Staumont, RHP
Begins: AAA Omaha
Ends: MLB

Analysis: In 18 starts at Wilmington in 2016, Staumont looked lost. The Royals promoted him anyway and he finished with a 3.04 ERA in 11 starts. With a good spring training, Staumont can begin with Omaha.

2. Matt Strahm, LHP
Begins: AAA Omaha
Ends: MLB

Analysis: After being promoted to the majors from AA Northwest Arkansas, Strahm was dominant in his first MLB stint. He’s on the 40 man roster, so Strahm might even crack the rotation out of spring training.

3. Hunter Dozier, 3B/OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: After posting a .212 ISO with AAA Omaha last season and a brief MLB stint, Dozier is ready to help the Royals in a super utility role.

4. Eric Skoglund, LHP
Begins: AAA Omaha
Ends: MLB

Analysis: He’s not on the 40 man roster, but if Skoglund’s control improves, he will be pitching for the Royals at some point. He’s not too overpowering, but has good-back end of the rotation stuff.

5. A.J. Puckett, RHP
Begins: High-A Wilmington
Ends: AA Northwest Arkansas

Analysis: If the Royals move Puckett to the pen, he could be one of the fastest risers in the system and end with Omaha. At his current projection, the Royals will develop him by ear.

6. Scott Blewett, RHP
Begins: High-A Wilmington
Ends: High-A Wilmington

Analysis: Jeez...another pitcher. Regardless, Blewett is most likely suited for the pen going forward. For now, the Royals will develop him slowly after two mediocre full seasons at Lexington.

7. Chase Vallot, C
Begins: High-A Wilmington
Ends: High-A Wilmington

Analysis: Vallot has been injured for most of his professional career, but he posted a .217 ISO in limited action last season. He’s ready for the Carolina League.

8. Ryan O’Hearn, 1B
Begins: AA Northwest Arkansas
Ends: AAA Omaha

Analysis: O’Hearn struck out 131 times in 112 games at AA last year. He’ll return to work on his plate discipline.

9. Jorge Bonifacio, OF
Begins: AAA Omaha
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Bonifacio had a nice season at Omaha last year and one could argue that he’s ready for the show right now. The problem is logjam in the outfield. It wouldn’t hurt for him to play everyday, as opposed to sitting on the bench.

10. Kyle Zimmer, RHP
Begins: AA Northwest Arkansas
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Limited to only 3 games last year after recovering from Tommy John, the Royals still awarded Zimmer with a 40 man roster spot. There’s a good chance you’ll see him in the bigs by September, as his days as a starter could be waning.

HELIUM:

11. Richard Lovelady, LHP
Begins: Low-A Lexington
Ends: AA Northwest Arkansas

Analysis: Aside from having an awesome last name, the 10th rounder in 2016 posted a ground out to air out ratio of 2.07 which means he throws a ton of ground balls. A lefty specialist at his peak, Lovelady could fly through the system.

TODAY: LAA, LAD & MIA

Los Angeles Angels

1. Jahmai Jones, OF
Begins: Low-A Burlington
Ends: High-A Inland Empire

Analysis: After hitting .321 with the Orem Owlz to begin 2016, Jones struggled on his promotion to Burlington. He’ll return there and continue to harness his five tool potential.

2. Matt Thaiss, 1B
Begins: High-A Inland Empire
Ends: AA Mobile

Analysis: Thaiss hit .292 at two levels in 2016, so he’s ready for a greater challenge this season.

3. Alex Meyer, RHP
Begins: AAA Salt Lake
Ends: MLB

Analysis: With three sub par stints in the majors, Meyer must prove he belongs. He’ll get a chance to do that in AAA Salt Lake, with a promotion to the bigs at some point. If injuries occur, he begins in the show.

4. Brandon Marsh, OF
Begins: Arizona league then Orem (Rookie)
Ends: Orem (Rookie)

Analysis: Marsh didn’t play in 2016, so don’t expect the 18 year old too advanced quickly.

5. Nate Smith, LHP
Begins: AAA Salt Lake
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The second AAA season went much better than the first for Smith. He’s on the 40 man, so expect to see him in the bigs at some point.

6. Taylor Ward, C
Begins: AA Mobile
Ends: AA Mobile

Analysis: Ward hit 10 home runs in 2016, but his average of .249 in the hitter friendly Cally league was sub par. One can argue that he will repeat High-A, but with his good defensive ability; he should be up for the challenge of AA.

7. Grayson Long, RHP
Begins: High-A Inland Empire
Ends: AA Mobile

Analysis: Long was awful last year in the Cally League, even though he averaged a K per inning. He will most likely return to High-A or the Angels will give him a change of scenery, similar to the Mark Appel syndrome.

8. Chris Rodriguez, RHP
Begins: Extended then Orem (Rookie)
Ends: Low-A Burlington

Analysis: The jury is still out if Rodriguez will stick as a starter, but the 4th rounder should advance to full season ball regardless.

9. Keynan Middleton, RHP
Begins: AAA Salt Lake
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The 3rd rounder from 2013 made it to AAA last season and was pedestrian at best. He’s on the 40 man, so the minimum if a cup of coffee in September.

10. Jaime Barria, RHP
Begins: Low-A Burlington
Ends: High-A Inland Empire

Analysis: Barria posted a 3.85 ERA in 25 starts last season at Low-A. There’s a good chance the 20 year old returns and gets a swift promotion to the Cally League.

HELIUM:

11. Cole Duensing, LHP
Begins: Extended then Orem (Rookie)
Ends: Low-A Burlington

Analysis: Even though he appeared in 8 Arizona League games in 2016, Duensing is quite intriguing. He has a good fastball with an advanced breaking ball, so the sky’s the limit.


Los Angeles Dodgers

1. Cody Bellinger, 1B/OF
Begins: AAA Oklahoma City
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Bellinger put up a .221 ISO with AA Tulsa in 2016. He only whiffed 94 times in 410 at bats. He’s ready for the majors by midseason as his raw power and high baseball IQ speaks for itself.

2. Yadier Alvarez, RHP
Begins: High-A Rancho
Ends: AA Tulsa

Analysis: Alvarez surpassed now traded Jose De Leon as the Dodgers best pitching prospect and for good reason. In only 14 pro starts, Alvarez has posted a K/9 ratio of 12.29. He’s ready to see how well his stuff profiles in the hitter friendly California League.

3. Jose De Leon, RHP
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Traded to the Rays for Logan Forsythe, the righty will become the Rays 5th starter with a good spring training. If not, he goes to Durham with a promotion in the cards.

4. Alex Verdugo, OF
Begins: AAA Oklahoma City
Ends: AAA Oklahoma City

Analysis: Verdugo posted a .273 average last year in Tulsa, so he’s ready to play in the PCL. He’s not on the 40 man, but if injuries arise, he’s that much closer.

5. Willie Calhoun, 2B/OF
Begins: AAA Oklahoma City
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Calhoun went from rookie ball to High-A in 2015. Then, he followed that up by posting a .215 ISO at AA Tulsa by smacking 27 homers in 2016. Calhoun is not on the 40 man, but if the Dodgers need some offensive firepower, Calhoun is your guy.

6. Andrew Toles, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: He hit .314 in 48 games of big league action in 2016, so Toles will be ready to assume the Dodgers 4th outfield role.

7. Yusniel Diaz, OF
Begins: AA Tulsa
Ends: AA Tulsa

Analysis: Diaz since defecting from Cuba has been impressive. Expect him to continue up the organizational ladder.

8. Brock Stewart, RHP
Begins: AAA Oklahoma City
Ends: MLB

Analysis: After a rough MLB stint in 2016, Stewart will refine his tools in OKC. Expect him to go up and down in 2017.

9. Gavin Lux, SS
Begins: Low-A Great Lakes
Ends: Low-A Great Lakes

Analysis: Lux had a nice pro debut with the AZL Dodgers and short season Ogden. He’ll give full season ball a crack in 2017.

10. Austin Barnes, C/2B
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Barnes should serve as Grandal’s backup in 2017 with two previous MLB stints notched in his belt.

HELIUM:

11. D.J. Peters, OF
Begins: High-A Rancho
Ends: AA Tulsa

Analysis: Peters hit .351 in 66 rookie league games with Ogden last year. He’s ready for the Cally league and should advance to AA in a hurry.


Miami Marlins

1. Braxton Garrett, LHP
Begins: Extended then Low-A Greensboro
Ends: Low-A Greensboro

Analysis: Garrett did not play in 2016 after being selected 7th overall last June. He’ll need some time in extended spring, but he has the talent to jump right into full season ball.

2. Luis Castillo, RHP
Begins: AA Pensacola
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Castillo has since been traded to the Reds and added to their 40 man roster. With Cincinnati’s pitching troubles, Castillo will help solidify the Reds bullpen at some point in 2017.

3. Tyler Kolek, RHP
Begins: Rehabilitation
Ends: Low-A Greensboro

Analysis: Kolek is expected to return in 2017 after missing last year to the dreaded Tommy John surgery. The Marlins will take their time with Kolek, in the hopes he can return to his pre-2014 draft form.

4. Brian Anderson, 3B
Begins: AA Jacksonville
Ends: AAA New Orleans

Analysis: The third baseman will return to Jacksonville after a rough 86 games there in 2016.

5. Dillon Peters, LHP
Begins: AA Jacksonville
Ends: AAA New Orleans

Analysis: The left hander posted a 1.99 ERA in only 4 appearances for the Suns. He’ll return to AA briefly before being promoted quickly to New Orleans.

6. Jarlin Garcia, LHP
Begins: AA Jacksonville
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The Marlins have been waiting for Garcia to pay dividends, even though he’ll only be 24 this season. He’s on the 40 man roster for now, so there’s a chance he ends at Marlins Park.

7. Edward Cabrera, RHP
Begins: Extended then Batavia (Short)
Ends: Batavia (Short)

Analysis: Cabrera pitched to a 4.21 ERA in the GCL last year, so short season ball should be his next stop.

8. Austin Dean, OF
Begins: AA Jacksonville
Ends: AAA New Orleans

Analysis: The year 2016 was one to forget for Dean. He had career worsts in batting average and strikeouts. He’ll return to Jacksonville to iron things out.

9. Stone Garrett, OF
Begins: Low-A Greensboro
Ends: High-A Jupiter

Analysis: One didn’t even need to be a regular follower of minor league baseball, to hear about what Josh Naylor did to Garrett in 2016. Regardless, Garrett bounced back nicely in the Australian Professional Baseball League. Hopefully his hot hitting carries into this April and beyond.

10. Thomas Jones, OF
Begins: Extended then Batavia (Short)
Ends: Batavia (Short)

Analysis: The 3rd rounder out of South Carolina will head to extended after a subpar season in the GCL. He’s similar to Garrett in terms of “toolsy” upside.

HELIUM:

11. Andy Beltre, RHP
Begins: AA Jacksonville
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Although he’s a two-pitch hurler, Beltre has missed bats. His fastball has good movement and it sits in the upper 90’s, with a slightly above average slider. As long as his control remains intact, Beltre could force the Marlins to add him to the 40 man, after passing on him to start 2017.

TODAY: MIL, MIN & NYM

Milwaukee Brewers

1. Lewis Brinson, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The time is now for Brinson after an incredible 2016 season. With a good spring training, he opens up in the show. If not, he goes back to AAA and rakes. At some point, Brinson will be in the majors.

2. Josh Hader, LHP
Begins: AAA Colorado Springs
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Hader has more than exceeded expectations after being selected in the 19th round of the 2012 draft. He’ll return to AAA before seeing Miller Park by midseason.

3. Luis Ortiz, RHP
Begins: AA Biloxi
Ends: AAA Colorado Springs

Analysis: Ortiz has been lights out since coming over from the Rangers. He’ll look to continue that trend in 2017.

4. Corey Ray, OF
Begins: High-A Carolina
Ends: AA Biloxi

Analysis: Ray only hit .247 with Brevard County last season in 57 games. He’ll join the new affiliate in Zebulon and should be promoted to Biloxi quickly.

5. Isan Diaz, SS/2B
Begins: High-A Carolina
Ends: AA Biloxi

Analysis: The middle infielder hit 20 home runs last year for Low-A Wisconsin, with a respectable .264 average. Diaz, who’s been compared to Robinson Cano, has the ability to make it to AA in 2017.

6. Trent Clark, OF
Begins: Low-A Wisconsin
Ends: High-A Carolina

Analysis: Since turning pro, Clark’s 4 home runs fall incredibly short of his pre-2015 draft projections. Only limited to 59 games last season due to injuries, Clark should return to Low-A in 2017.

7. Brandon Woodruff, RHP
Begins: AAA Colorado Springs
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The 11th rounder in 2014 went from rookie ball to scorching AA hitters last year. He’ll move onto AAA in 2017.

8. Phil Bickford, RHP
Begins: Suspended then High-A Carolina
Ends: AA Biloxi (Hopefully)

Analysis: Like in the movie “Bull Durham”, Bickford has all the talent in the world, but a five cent head. He was suspended a second time for substance abuse, so hopefully he sees the light and returns stronger than ever in 2017.

9. Lucas Erceg, 3B
Begins: High-A Carolina
Ends: AA Biloxi

Analysis: The 2nd rounder last summer hit .321 in 68 games across two levels, including 9 home runs. Erceg is ready for a greater challenge.

10. Marcos Diplan, RHP
Begins: High-A Carolina
Ends: AA Biloxi

Analysis: After dismantling hitters at Low-A Wisconsin, hitters got the best of Diplan at Brevard County. He’ll return to High-A and it shouldn’t be long before he joins Biloxi.

HELIUM:

11. Corbin Burnes, RHP
Begins: High-A Carolina
Ends: AAA Colorado Springs

Analysis: Last year’s 4th rounder pitched to a 2.02 ERA at two levels. His GO/AO ratio was 2.21, which means Burnes throws a ton of ground balls. These pitchers tend to move quickly and Burnes should be no different.

Minnesota Twins

1. Nick Gordon, SS
Begins: AA Chattanooga
Ends: AA Chattanooga

Analysis: Gordon is ready for AA after hitting .291 last year with Fort Myers. He should remain with the Lookouts all season.

2. Stephen Gonsalves, LHP
Begins: AAA Rochester
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The lefty posted a 1.82 ERA and went 8-1 in his final 13 starts of 2016 at Chattanooga. There’s no doubt Gonsalves is ready for the International League. He’s not on the 40 man roster, but Gonsalves has the tools necessary to force a big league promotion.

3. Alex Kirilloff, OF/1B
Begins: Low-A Cedar Rapids
Ends: High-A Fort Myers

Analysis: Once of the best raw bats in the 2016 draft, Kirilloff showed that he’s anything, but “raw” in his pro debut with rookie level Elizabethton. He hit .306 including 7 home runs, so there’s no doubt the Twins will start him in full season ball. Kirilloff has the offensive ability to move quickly.

4. Fernando Romero, RHP
Begins: AA Chattanooga
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Romero will play all of 2017 as a 22 year old after pitching to a 1.88 ERA with Fort Myers last year. He’s on the 40 man, so there’s a good chance Romero is pitching in Target Field in 2017.

5. Tyler Jay, LHP
Begins: AA Chattanooga
Ends: AAA Rochester

Analysis: Jay struggled at AA last year, so he’ll return there to begin 2017. If the Twins move him to the pen full time, there’s an outside shot he’s a major leaguer by season’s end. He’s not on the 40 man, so a lot has to go right.

6. Adalberto Mejia, LHP
Begins: AAA Rochester
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Mejia used his frequent flier miles in 2016. He should return briefly to Rochester, before a swift return to the show.

7. Kohl Stewart, RHP
Begins: AA Chattanooga
Ends: AAA Rochester

Analysis: The 4th overall pick in the 2013 draft fared well in AA, but only struck out 91 hitters in 143.2 innings overall in 2016. He’ll stick as a starter for now, but he’s most likely destined for the pen in the future.

8. Felix Jorge, RHP
Begins: AA Chattanooga
Ends: AAA Rochester

Analysis: Jorge’s strikeout totals took a huge hit in 2016. He’s on the 40 man, but I don’t expect the Twins to keep him there all year. If they do keep him on there, he’s most likely destined for the pen.

9. Daniel Palka, OF
Begins: AAA Rochester
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Palka has some serious pop, with 34 long balls across two levels. The problem? He whiffed 186 times. He’ll return to Rochester, before receiving a few cups of coffee.

10. Travis Blankenhorn, 3B/2B
Begins: Low-A Cedar Rapids
Ends: High-A Fort Myers

Analysis: The 3rd rounder in 2015 hit 10 homers in 59 games. He only played 25 games in Low-A, so there’s a good chance he begins in Cedar Rapids. He shouldn’t be there for long.

HELIUM:

11. Luis Arraez, 2B
Begins: High-A Fort Myers
Ends: AA Chattanooga

Analysis: Arraez hit .347 last year at Cedar Rapids including 165 hits with 37 falling for extra bases. Since coming over from Venezuela, Arraez has been a hitting machine. He’s out to prove that 2016 was no fluke.

New York Mets

1. Amed Rosario, SS
Begins: AAA Las Vegas
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Rosario hit .341 in 54 games at AA last season. He’s ready for a greater challenge and if injuries persist in New York, Rosario will be the next in line at Citi Field.

2. Dominic Smith, 1B
Begins: AAA Las Vegas
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Mets fans have heard his name since day one. In 2017, they’re going to see him in Citi Field if he replicates last season.

3. Justin Dunn, RHP
Begins: High-A Port St. Lucie
Ends: AA Binghamton

Analysis: The Mets first rounder out of Boston college pitched to a 1.50 ERA in 11 appearances for the short season Brooklyn Cyclones in 2016. He’s ready to skip over Low-A Columbia. If the Mets commit him to a reliever full time, he can reach AAA Las Vegas in a hurry.

4. Desmond Lindsay, OF
Begins: Low-A Columbia
Ends: High-A Port St. Lucie

Analysis: Lindsay showed solid contact with Brooklyn last summer and there’s no doubt he’s ready for full season ball.

5. Brandon Nimmo, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Nimmo has proven that he belongs in the majors. With a solid spring training, he will be the Mets 4th outfielder. It won’t be easy with six potential outfielders vying for a few spots, so there’s an outside chance Nimmo returns to Las Vegas here and there.

6. Gavin Cecchini, 2B/SS
Begins: AAA Las Vegas
Ends: MLB

Analysis: All Cecchini does is hit. The problem is there’s no place for him. He’ll return to Las Vegas with the hopes of sticking in the show full time.

7. Robert Gsellman, RHP
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: With Bartolo Colon gone, the Mets need a number five starter. It’s basically Gsellman’s to lose after answering the bell with a 2.42 ERA in 8 appearances for the Mets last season.

8. Thomas Szapucki, LHP
Begins: Low-A Columbia
Ends: High-A Port St. Lucie
Analysis: Szapucki has the highest ceiling of any pitcher in the Mets farm system. He was lights out with Brookyln last summer, so it’s time to see how his stuff profiles in full season ball.

9. Gabriel Ynoa, RHP
Begins: AAA Norfolk
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The Mets parted with the right hander, after showing some signs of promise in the big leagues last season. Ynoa will compete for a starting job in spring training, but he’s most likely headed back to the minors.

10. Tomas Nido, C
Begins: AA Binghamton
Ends: AA Binghamton

Analysis: Nido hit .320 in the Florida State League last year. He’s advanced only one level per season since signing in 2012, which it’s wise to project he’ll spend the entire 2017 season in the Eastern League.

HELIUM:

11. P.J. Conlon, LHP
Begins: AA Binghamton
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The Mets for the past couple of seasons have been forced to rely on the likes of lefty relievers Sean Gilmartin, Jerry Blevins and Josh Smoker. Although Conlon has been a starter, people within the organization believe Conlon has the stuff to make it to the big leagues in a hurry.

Actually Ynoa is in Baltimore now...


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MrMet said:

Actually Ynoa is in Baltimore now...


Sent from my iPhone using Freedom Card Board

Click to expand...

Looks like someone didn't read the five notes on the top of this post. Lol. I also mentioned in Ynoa's ranking that the Mets parted with him and his AAA projection reflects his new organization

jbone17 said:

Looks like someone didn't read the five notes on the top of this post. Lol. I also mentioned in Ynoa's ranking that the Mets parted with him and his AAA projection reflects his new organization

Click to expand...

Nope, just saw Mets and read that part


Sent from my iPhone using Freedom Card Board

Sorry for the long delay. Here are some more:

New York Yankees

1. Gleyber Torres, SS/2B
Begins: AA Trenton
Ends: AAA Scranton

Analysis: After being named the youngest Arizona Fall League MVP, Yankees GM Brian Cashman announced that Torres is starting with the Thunder. From there, the 20 year old controls his own destiny.

2. Clint Frazier, OF
Begins: AAA Scranton
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Frazier looked lost in AAA after coming over from Cleveland last summer. He’ll return to northern PA and will be playing in the Bronx before midseason.

3. Blake Rutherford, OF
Begins: Low-A Charleston
Ends: High-A Tampa

Analysis: Last year’s first rounder hit .351 in 33 games between two levels. He’s more than capable of handling an aggressive assignment to Charleston. He has the tools necessary to finish with Tampa, as well.

4. Jorge Mateo, SS/2B/OF
Begins: High-A Tampa
Ends: AA Trenton

Analysis: Mateo had an awful 2016, by almost anyone’s standards. He went from being a top 30 prospect, to the low 80’s. Mateo will return to the Florida State League and hope to reclaim his lost glory.

5. James Kaprielian, RHP
Begins: High-A Tampa
Ends: AAA Scranton

Analysis: If it weren’t for elbow inflammation, Kaprielian could be auditioning for a big league job. Instead, he’ll begin in the sunshine state until the weather gets warmer. He should fly through Trenton, before pitching for the Rail Riders by season’s end.

6. Aaron Judge, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The Yankees traded Carlos Beltran for a reason last summer and it was to make room for the big man from Fresno State. This spring, the starting right field position is Judge’s to lose.

7. Justus Sheffield, LHP
Begins: AA Trenton
Ends: AAA Scranton

Analysis: Sheffield got his first taste of AA baseball in the Eastern League playoffs last summer. It didn’t go so well. He’ll return to Trenton, with the hopes of being promoted in the second half of 2017.

8. Chance Adams, RHP
Begins: AAA Scranton
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The 5th rounder from Dallas Baptist in 2015 has pitched to a 2.21 ERA across 39 appearances. Adams has been the best kept secret and should pitch for the Yankees at some point. Whether he is a starter or reliever, remains to be seen.

9. Dustin Fowler, OF
Begins: AAA Scranton
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Fowler is the most patient Yankees hitter in the system. He will begin with Scranton, but there’s a chance he’s the future 4th outfielder for the Bronx Bombers.

10. Domingo Acevedo, RHP
Begins: High-A Tampa
Ends: AA Trenton

Analysis: Acevedo was on the verge of being promoted to Trenton in 2016 before injuries set him back. The Yankees will most likely keep him in warmer weather to start the 2017 season, but by mid May, Acevedo will be a Thunder.

HELIUM:

11. Yefrey Ramirez, RHP
Begins: AA Trenton
Ends: AAA Scranton

Analysis: Ramirez since being obtained in the rule five draft at the end of 2015 has been a beast. Across Low and High-A last season, he had more than a K per inning and opponents hit .183 against him. With this production, he should move quickly.


Oakland Athletics

1. Franklin Barreto, SS
Begins: AAA Nashville
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Barreto since coming over from Toronto has been a freak of nature. He’s on the 40 man roster, so there’s no doubt he’s in the A’s future plans.

2. A.J. Puk, LHP
Begins: High-A Stockton
Ends: AA Midland

Analysis: Puk was projected to go first overall in 2016, but a few spotty starts with the Florida Gators pushed him back a few spots. Puk fared well with short season Vermont, so he’ll join Stockton to begin 2017.

3. Matt Chapman, 3B
Begins: AAA Nashville
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The third baseman hit 36 home runs, but also whiffed 173 times in 2016. He’s not on the 40 man, so some adjustments are needed for him to make the show in September.

4. Jharel Cotton, RHP
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Since coming over from the Dodgers via trade, Cotton made it all the way to the majors last season. He’s averaged more than a K per inning his entire career, so he’s ready compete for a back end of the rotation spot this spring.

5. Frankie Montas, RHP
Begins: AAA Nashville
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The jury is out on whether the A’s view Montas as a starter, but he will reach the bigs again at some point in 2017.

6. Grant Holmes, RHP
Begins: High-A Stockton
Ends: AA Midland

Analysis: Holmes struggled last year in the Cally League. He will return there and refine his mechanics.

7. Chad Pinder, SS
Begins: AAA Nashville
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The A’s have a wealth of middle infield talent, therefore, expect Pinder to bounce between AAA and the show a lot in 2017.

8. Daniel Gossett, RHP
Begins: AAA Nashville
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Gossett is in the next tier of A’s pitching prospects that can have a profound impact in 2017. He just needs to cut down on the walk rate and a 40 man roster spot is his.

9. Richie Martin, SS
Begins: AA Midland
Ends: AA Midland

Analysis: There’s nothing particularly exciting about Martin’s game, except that he doesn’t strike out a lot. Most organizations would have him repeating Midland, but Martin has the upside to stay in AA all year with the hopes he’ll hit for better average.

10. Bruce Maxwell, C
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: After hitting .283 in 33 games of MLB action last year, Maxwell is more than capable as serving as backup catcher.

HELIUM:

11. Brandon Bailey, RHP
Begins: Low-A Beloit
Ends: AA Midland

Analysis: Although he’s not the biggest guy, Bailey has decent command and pitched to a 2.93 ERA in 43 innings last season. If the A’s develop him as a reliever, he will easily reach AA by season’s end.

Philadelphia Phillies

1. J.P. Crawford, SS
Begins: AAA Lehigh Valley
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Although his glove has been MLB ready for quite sometime, the Phillies are waiting on offensive consistency from Crawford. This could be the year where he puts it all together.

2. Mickey Moniak, OF
Begins: Low-A Lakewood
Ends: Low-A Lakewood

Analysis: Last year’s number one overall pick should start in full season ball this spring. There’s a chance the Phils aggressively push him to High-A Clearwater by season’s end, but it’s highly unlikely due to Moniak’s raw profile.

3. Jorge Alfaro, C
Begins: AAA Lehigh Valley
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Alfaro saw a few at bats with the Phillies last season after being called up from AA Reading. With Rupp as the starter, it’s likely Alfaro will play everyday in AAA as opposed to sitting the bench.

4. Nick Williams, OF
Begins: AAA Lehigh Valley
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Williams will compete for a big league job in camp, but he’s most likely to start in the minors with more advanced options ahead of him on the pecking order.

5. Sixto Sanchez, RHP
Begins: Extended then Williamsport (Short)
Ends: Low-A Lakewood

Analysis: If you pitch to a 0.50 ERA in 11 starts and go 5-0, people will be paying attention. Sanchez might be raw, but he’s slowly becoming a name to keep an eye on and should reach Lakewood by season’s end.

6. Rhys Hoskins, 1B
Begins: AAA Lehigh Valley
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Hoskins hit .281 and slugged .566 last season at AA Reading. With Playstation numbers like that, he’s ready for a big league promotion which should happen in the second half of 2017.

7. Franklyn Kilome, RHP
Begins: High-A Clearwater
Ends: AA Reading

Analysis: The first month of 2016 wasn’t so good for Kilome. He finished strong the rest of the way, by helping push Low-A Lakewood to the South Atlantic League championship series.

8. Roman Quinn, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Quinn has been through the ringer with countless injuries in his young career. He returned in 2016 by going from AA to the majors. He’s easily favored to be a starting outfielder for the Phillies in 2017.

9. Scott Kingery, 2B
Begins: AA Reading
Ends: AAA Lehigh Valley

Analysis: The 2015 2nd rounder from Arizona has been consistent since signing with the Phillies. He’s hit .271 in 197 total games and should reach AAA by midseason.

10. Dylan Cozens, OF
Begins: AAA Lehigh Valley
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Cozens can flat out rake. The only problem is his approach against lefties. He will move to AAA and hope to cut down on his strikeout rate overall.

HELIUM:

11. Cole Irvin, LHP
Begins: Low-A Lakewood
Ends: AA Reading

Analysis: Last year’s 5th rounder from Oregon will move quickly if the Phillies decide to commit him to the pen full time.

Three more on the docket!

Pittsburgh Pirates

1. Austin Meadows, OF
Begins: AAA Indianapolis
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Meadows is one injury away from the show. With a crowded Pirates outfield, they have the luxury of not rushing the 21 year old.

2. Mitch Keller, RHP
Begins: High-A Bradenton
Ends: AA Altoona

Analysis: When you’re ranked above a potential rookie of the year candidate, it speaks volumes. Keller surpassed Glasnow in the rankings and he’ll continue to impress in 2017.

3. Tyler Glasnow, RHP
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Make no mistake, Glasnow is ready. His first taste of the MLB was pedestrian, but when you’re projected to be an ace; anything is possible.

4. Josh Bell, 1B/OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Like Glasnow, the time is now for Bell. After a strong MLB stint last season, he should be here to stay.

5. Kevin Newman, SS
Begins: AAA Indianapolis
Ends: MLB

Analysis: It’s not everyday that you hit .320 and only strike out 36 times in 396 at bats. That’s exactly what Newman did between High-A and AA in 2016. He’s ready for AAA and could receive a cup of coffee in September.

6. Ke’Bryan Hayes, 3B
Begins: Low-A West Virginia
Ends: High-A Bradenton

Analysis: Hayes is a work in progress after hitting a respectable .263 in 65 games with the Power. He’ll most likely return there and should be promoted by June.

7. Steven Brault, LHP
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Whether he is to remain the 5th starter, or vy for a bullpen spot; Brault will be a major leaguer in 2017.

8. Cole Tucker, SS
Begins: High-A Bradenton
Ends: AA Altoona

Analysis: Tucker was plagued by the injury bug in 2016 and only hit .242 in 80 total games. He will return to Bradenton with the hopes of a healthy season.

9. Will Craig, 3B
Begins: High-A Bradenton
Ends: High-A Bradenton

Analysis: Craig hit .280 with short season West Virginia last season, so there’s no doubt he’s moving to full season ball. The only question is how fast he’ll move.

10. Elias Diaz, C
Begins: AAA Indianapolis
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Diaz received cups of coffee before, but with established veterans Cervelli and Stewart on the roster, it wouldn’t hurt for Diaz to get some more seasoning in AAA.

HELIUM:

11. Taylor Hearn, LHP
Begins: High-A Bradenton
Ends: AA Altoona

Analysis: Since coming over from Washington, Hearn has been lights out. He’s been used as a lefty reliever and has accumulated 75 strikeouts in 51.2 innings. Hearn could move quickly if he cuts down on the walks and the Pirates desperately need a lefty; strike-throwing machine.


San Diego Padres

1. Anderson Espinoza, RHP
Begins: High-A Lake Elsinore
Ends: High-A Lake Elsinore

Analysis: Espinoza bursted onto the scene in 2015 as a 17 year old when he reached Low-A Greenville. The Red Sox responded by trading him away to the Padres in 2016. Espinoza struggled, but people forget he’s only 19 for all of 2017.

2. Manuel Margot, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Another former Red Sox farmhand, Margot is ready to be the everyday center fielder in 2017.

3. Hunter Renfroe, OF
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Like Margot, Hunter’s time is now.

4. Cal Quantrill, RHP
Begins: High-A Lake Elsinore
Ends: AA San Antonio

Analysis: The Stanford product was still recovering from Tommy John surgery in 2016. With a new year, Quantrill should take big steps in his development.

5. Adrian Morejon, LHP
Begins: Extended then DSL Padres (Rookie)
Ends: DSL Padres (Rookie)

Analysis: Morejon has yet to throw a professional pitch and he’s only 17 years old. Coming over from Cuba is no small task, but scouts love his upside.

6. Luis Urias, 2B/SS
Begins: AA San Antonio
Ends: AAA El Paso

Analysis: The Padres liked Urias so much that he played 4 AAA games as a 19 year old in 2016, aside from hitting .330 in 120 games at High-A Lake Elsinore. Urias will get to play everyday in San Antonio and with his advanced approach, a promotion to AAA isn’t out of the question.

7. Jacob Nix, RHP
Begins: High-A Lake Elsinore
Ends: High-A Lake Elsinore

Analysis: Nix was selected in the 5th round of the 2014 draft by Houston, but didn’t sign due to an argument regarding a potential signing bonus. Instead, Nix was drafted one year later by the Padres and should begin 2017 in High-A, after a pedestrian season at Low-A Fort Wayne.

8. Michael Gettys, OF
Begins: AA San Antonio
Ends: AA San Antonio

Analysis: It was a bounce back season in 2016 for Gettys, after a miserable showing the year before. He hit .305 between two affiliates and it’s time for him to the next step.

9. Dinelson Lamet, RHP
Begins: AAA El Paso
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Lamet had another solid minor league campaign, with most of it being spent at AA. He’ll look to spend most of this season in AAA, before vying for some big league time in the second half.

10. Josh Naylor, 1B
Begins: High-A Lake Elsinore
Ends: High-A Lake Elsinore

Analysis: High-A Lake Elsinore will be stacked and Naylor will be apart of it. Since coming over from the Marlins organization, Naylor is very similar to Dominic Smith. It will be interesting to see how a healthy and refreshed Naylor profiles in 2017.

HELIUM:

11. Eric Lauer, LHP
Begins: High-A Lake Elsinore
Ends: AAA El Paso

Analysis: Lauer is a college lefty that has what scouts call “Pitchability”. He’s not going to be a wipe out lefty like Matt Moore, but his consistency should allow him to move quickly. He appeared at three affiliates in 2016.


San Francisco Giants

1. Tyler Beede, RHP
Begins: AAA Sacramento
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Beede started off rough with Richmond, but in the second half, it was another story. The former Vanderbilt product finished with a 2.81 ERA. He’s not on the 40 man roster, so Beede must continue to prove his MLB ready. There’s a good chance his MLB debut happens in the second half of 2017.

2. Christian Arroyo, 3B/SS
Begins: AA Richmond
Ends: AAA Sacramento

Analysis: Arroyo hit a respectable .274 average last year with Richmond, but beyond that, there wasn’t anything else to be excited about. Arroyo must find ways to get on base more often, due to his lack of power. Arroyo could make it to the show, but it would be a stretch.

3. Chris Shaw, 1B
Begins: AA Richmond
Ends: AAA Sacramento

Analysis: Shaw hit 21 home runs between two minor league affiliates in 2016. The downside was hit .246 average. Shaw will return to Richmond, but will be in AAA by mid May.

4. Bryan Reynolds, OF
Begins: High-A San Jose
Ends: AA Richmond

Analysis: The former Vanderbilt product could jump directly to AA Richmond, but some seasoning in San Jose is more likely. Regardless, all Reynolds did was hit in 2016. That trend should continue in 2017.

5. Andrew Suarez, LHP
Begins: AA Richmond
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The former Miami Hurricane made it to AA in 2016. If the Giants need lefty relief help down the stretch, there’s a good chance Suarez will be called upon to assist. He’s already on the 40 man roster, so half the battle is over.

6. Ty Blach, LHP
Begins: MLB
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Blach was incredible down the stretch for the Giants in 2016. He’s going to compete for a big league job this spring and it’s his job to lose.

7. Joan Gregorio, RHP
Begins: AAA Sacramento
Ends: MLB

Analysis: Gregorio struggled in AAA, so he’ll head back there to refine his mechanics. He’s on the 40 man, so as of now, he should get a cup of coffee in September.

8. Sandro Fabian, OF
Begins: Extended then Salem-Keizer (Short)
Ends: Low-A Augusta

Analysis: The 18 year old hit .340 with the AZL Giants including 20 extra base hits in only 42 games. He will begin in extended spring training, before finishing with Low-A Augusta.

9. Aramis Garcia, C
Begins: High-A San Jose
Ends: AA Richmond

Analysis: Garcia ended the season by playing 41 games in High-A. Although he hit .257, Garcia will need more time before a promotion to Richmond is in the cards.

10. Steven Duggar, OF
Begins: AAA Sacramento
Ends: AAA Sacramento

Analysis: In 60 games with Richmond, all Duggar did was hit. The outfielder from Clemson finished with a .321 average. He’ll begin 2017 in AAA, but there’s a slight chance he gets called up in September.

HELIUM:

11. Reyes Moronta, RHP
Begins: AA Richmond
Ends: MLB

Analysis: The right hander with San Jose struck out 93 batters in 59 innings last summer. The Giants placed him on the 40 man roster, so there’s an outside shot he’s in the Giants bullpen right out of spring training. If not, he goes to Richmond.