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Let's put the key in the ignition and see if this thing still works. After almost a year of not putting anything on this blog, I have decided with a new faster computer and an abundance of free time to start back up here. I can just picture a polite golf clap now from my two readers, my dad and my girlfriend. I will tread softly back into the blogosphere with a Twins Prospect ranking that will differ greatly from the last post last year. The previous ranking would be where I had them going into this current season.
1. SP Kyle Gibson - AA New Britain
Age: 22
Pre-Season Ranking: 3
Total Stats: 50.2 IP 1.60 ERA 50 K
AA Stats: 7.1 IP 0.00 ERA 10 K
The Twins 1st round pick in last year's draft had the expectation that he had the chance to be an ace and move quickly through the organization, but he has blown away the expectations. He already has a complete game 1-hitter to his name. His first start at the AA level may have been even a better start with 10 K's. If he doesn't strike out the batter they ground out. He has a ground out to fly out ratio of 3.57. Think Nick Blackburn but with Liriano's strikeout ratio. Baring injuries he won't be seen this year but he could easily be in the opening day rotation in 2011.
2. OF Aaron Hicks - Low A Beloit
Age: 20
Pre-Season Ranking: 1
Stats: .272 3 HR 10 RBI .395 OBP .800 OPS
By almost all publications he the biggest prospect in the Twins system. He was ranked as the 19th best prospect by Baseball America. He has shown flashes of the skill that has lead to all the rankings but he has been marked by inconsistency all year. He started the year batting 1-30, then hit around .400 for the next couple weeks. He has recently hit another rough patch hitting .194 in the last 10 games. The most encouraging aspect of his game so far is his patience at the plate. He has 25 walks so far on the season in which has lead to the one of the highest OBP in the farm system. He will spend most of the season in Beloit, but should get a taste of Fort Myers by July.
3. C Wilson Ramos - AAA Rochester
Age: 22
Pre-Season Ranking: 2
MLB Stats: .296 0 HR 1 RBI .321 OBP .729 OPS
AAA Stats: .160 3 HR 9 RBI .190 OBP .487 OPS
Even the Twins fan who doesn't track the minors at all is aware of Wilson Ramos. When Mauer went down with a bruised heel, he came up and made his presence felt. He even had people having heated debates on what to do with him. Some of the less intelligent fans calling for Mauer to move to 3rd to make room. He then did cool down and showed why he is still a prospect and not a finished product. He still has the potential to be an all-star catcher. I am of the camp that he can be a factor next year as the backup catcher and right-handed DH.
4. 3B Miguel Sano
Age: 17
Pre-Season Ranking: 4
While he has not officially been assigned to a team it is believed he will join the Gulf Coast Rookie League when they start in late June. Sano combined with Gibson where the 1st signs that the Twins budget had changed well before the re-signing of Mauer. He signed last summer for the second -largest bonus in team history right behind St. Mauer's. He profiles as a slugging 3rd baseman. It is hard to project a 17-year old but his ceiling would be a .300-35-120.
5. 3B Danny Valencia - AAA Rochester
Age: 25
Pre-Season Ranking: 6
Stats: .305 0 HR 20 RBI .343 OBP .747 OPS
He is known to many as the next 3rd baseman for the Twins. He is currently being blocked by the Gardenhire-Punto love fest. Don't get me wrong I have no problem that he is not currently up here but even if Punto is batting .180 I can still see him sticking with him and Valencia toiling away in upstate New York. He got off to a slow start and has still not hit a home run, but is currently on a 20 game hitting streak. I haven't reached it yet but the more at bats people like Tolbert, Harris and Casilla get the closer I will get to the boiling point that he is not in Minneapolis yet.
6. OF Ben Revere - AA New Britain
Age: 22
Pre-Season Ranking: 5
Stats: .279 1 HR 10 RBI .353 OBP .680 OPS 11 SB
I have never been a huge fan of his despite being back-to-back minor league player of the year in the organization, and his start in AA has not changed my opinion. He somehow has a lower slugging percentage than a on-base percentage. He has 34 hits on the year and only 4 extra base hits. There are signs that his success in the lower levels will not translate. The two biggest issues are that his batting average has decreased at every level with him hitting only .279 so far and that his stolen bases has gone down. He had 45 stolen bases last year and to date has only 11 in 15 attempts. You would have trouble to find a player that stolen bases go up as they hit the majors. The only way I see value for the Twins for him is he moves to 2nd base. I just can't see them making room for him on the roster by moving out Cuddyer, Kubel or Young when the best he could be is another Denard Span. My guess he is more likely to be traded than don a Twins uniform.
7. SP David Bromberg - AA New Britain
Age: 22
Pre-Season Rankings: 8
Stats: 37.2 IP 3.58 ERA 25 K
Bromberg was finally recognized as a big-time prospect in the system after repeating his Beloit stats and dominating in Fort Myers. He has not been outstanding in AA and has not been dominant with some of his control issues. That being said he is holding his own at age 22 and his star has not diminished. Some warning signs are the strikeout ratio has fallen considerably so far and only pitching 37 innings in 7 starts means he is not cruising out there. It looks like he is going to be passed by Kyle Gibson in line to jump in the rotation but he could be in the Twins rotation by 2011 or opening day 2012.
8. OF Angel Morales - Low A Beloit
Age: 20
Pre-Season Ranking: 7
Stats: .244 3 HR 18 RBI .324 OBP .714 OPS 10 SB
There was some that thought with his strong second half in Beloit he would start the season in Fort Myers. He hasn't exactly forced the Twins hand to promote him yet. He has never hit for a high average and has always had issues with strikeouts. He has increased his stolen bases showcasing his overlooked tool, speed. It also gets lost because he has been around for awhile that he is only 20 and the same age of Hicks. He and Hicks will likely see Fort Myers by the second half of this year.
9. RP Anthony Slama - AAA Rochester
Age: 26
Pre-Season Ranking: 9
Stats: 24.1 IP 1.85 ERA 27 K
I don't know what more he has to do to finally get his chance at the Majors. He has dominated at every level on his way up. He was dominant in Spring Training. Batters are currently hitting .123 against him. The standard line is that he needs to work on his control but he has walked only 9 batters in 24 innings. Alex Burnett got the call and has walked 10 in 17 innings and he's doing fine. They then say it is because he is not on the 40-man roster and they would have to make room, but Clay Condrey can easily be moved to the 60 day DL to make room. Even more frustrating was info that they may finally get rid of Crain but that it might be Kyle Waldrop who would get the call. Waldrop is also not on the 40-man roster. I know his stuff doesn't blow you away but results speak louder than any scouting report should.
10. SP Liam Hendriks - High A Fort Myers
Age: 21
Pre-Season Ranking: NR
Total Stats: 41 IP 1.32 ERA 47 K
High A Stats: 7 IP 1.29 ERA 8 K
He wasn't on anyone's top 10 list coming into the season. He was not in the top 30 by Baseball America and not in the top 50 on Twinkie Town, but his performance to this point can not be ignored. There have not been many scouting reports on him to this point so I don't know if his stuff will translate to the higher levels but the stats are amazing. Of the starters in the farm system he is second in ERA, strikeouts and leads the organization in WHIP with 0.56 and hitter batting average with .136. If he keeps it up he will certainly make a few lists next year.
Showing posts with label Aaron Hicks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Aaron Hicks. Show all posts
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Friday, July 24, 2009
Twins Prospect Power Rankings
1. 3B Danny Valencia AAA - Rochester
Age: 24
Total Stats: .307 12 HR 51 RBI
AAA Stats: .352 5 HR 22 RBI
I was in the minority having him as the best Twins prospect but a lot of minds have changed with the production he has had. If Crede ends up on the DL, the Twins might go with Valencia this year.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .312 2 HR 37 RBI 33 SB
With Denard Span already on the team, it is thought that Revere will likely be used more as trade bait. That is if the Twins ever make a trade.
3. OF Aaron Hicks Low A - Beloit
Age: 19
Stats: .216 1 HR 14 RBI 3 SB
The buzz surrounding him has dimmed given his struggles this year. It would not be surprising to see him start 2010 in Beloit again.
4. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Age: 21
Stats: .308 3 HR 18 RBI
This is officially a lost year for Ramos, which is disappointing but the talent is still there.
5. OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .258 14 HR 56 RBI
I would like to see him and Revere get some time in New Britain this year but that is not likely to happen.
6. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Age: 25
Stats: 54.1 IP 2.98 ERA 77 K
Is stuck in AA this year but he should be in the Twins bullpen next year.
7. OF Rene Tosoni AA - New Britain
Age: 23
Stats: .277 10 HR 53 RBI
Only got a pinch-hit appearance in the Futures Game but he used it to hit the game-winning double and win the MVP award.
8. RHP David Bromberg High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: 103.2 IP 2.86 ERA 92 K
Has struggled a little in July with a 3.91 ERA but the fact that that is struggling for him is a good sign.
9. RHP Carlos Gutierrez AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Total Stats: 91 IP 3.96 ERA 50 K
AA Stats: 36.1 IP 7.93 ERA 17 K
He is still on this list for his 1st half and the potential but he has been absolutely brutal in AA. He will definitely be starting 2010 in AA. Hitters are hitting .333 against him in AA. His WHIP in AA is 1.89.
10. 1B/C Danny Rams Low A - Beloit
Age: 20
Total Stats: .327 10 HR 32 RBI
Low A Stats: .286 4 HR 6 RBI
I said if he kept hitting he would make the list and he has not stopped hitting. He stikes out way too much but his numbers are video game numbers. In 110 at-bats he has 10 home runs and 24 extra base hits. On the year he has a slugging percentage of .736 and an OPS of 1.144. If you need to know how good that is Albert Pujols has similar numbers with a slugging percentage of .711 and OPS of 1.161.
Age: 24
Total Stats: .307 12 HR 51 RBI
AAA Stats: .352 5 HR 22 RBI
I was in the minority having him as the best Twins prospect but a lot of minds have changed with the production he has had. If Crede ends up on the DL, the Twins might go with Valencia this year.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .312 2 HR 37 RBI 33 SB
With Denard Span already on the team, it is thought that Revere will likely be used more as trade bait. That is if the Twins ever make a trade.
3. OF Aaron Hicks Low A - Beloit
Age: 19
Stats: .216 1 HR 14 RBI 3 SB
The buzz surrounding him has dimmed given his struggles this year. It would not be surprising to see him start 2010 in Beloit again.
4. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Age: 21
Stats: .308 3 HR 18 RBI
This is officially a lost year for Ramos, which is disappointing but the talent is still there.
5. OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .258 14 HR 56 RBI
I would like to see him and Revere get some time in New Britain this year but that is not likely to happen.
6. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Age: 25
Stats: 54.1 IP 2.98 ERA 77 K
Is stuck in AA this year but he should be in the Twins bullpen next year.
7. OF Rene Tosoni AA - New Britain
Age: 23
Stats: .277 10 HR 53 RBI
Only got a pinch-hit appearance in the Futures Game but he used it to hit the game-winning double and win the MVP award.
8. RHP David Bromberg High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: 103.2 IP 2.86 ERA 92 K
Has struggled a little in July with a 3.91 ERA but the fact that that is struggling for him is a good sign.
9. RHP Carlos Gutierrez AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Total Stats: 91 IP 3.96 ERA 50 K
AA Stats: 36.1 IP 7.93 ERA 17 K
He is still on this list for his 1st half and the potential but he has been absolutely brutal in AA. He will definitely be starting 2010 in AA. Hitters are hitting .333 against him in AA. His WHIP in AA is 1.89.
10. 1B/C Danny Rams Low A - Beloit
Age: 20
Total Stats: .327 10 HR 32 RBI
Low A Stats: .286 4 HR 6 RBI
I said if he kept hitting he would make the list and he has not stopped hitting. He stikes out way too much but his numbers are video game numbers. In 110 at-bats he has 10 home runs and 24 extra base hits. On the year he has a slugging percentage of .736 and an OPS of 1.144. If you need to know how good that is Albert Pujols has similar numbers with a slugging percentage of .711 and OPS of 1.161.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Twins Prospect Power Rankings
1. 3B Danny Valencia AAA - Rochester
Age: 24
Total Stats: .304 9 HR 37 RBI
AAA Stats: .405 2 HR 8 RBI
It is basically a forgone conclusion that he will be a September call-up and the starting 3rd basemen in 2010. He has had no problem adjusting to AAA.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .304 2 HR 31 RBI 29 SB
Has struggled a little bit lately hitting .264 in June and .195 in his last 10 games. He is still having a good year striking out only 25 times in 313 plate appearances. Joe Mauer has struck out 29 times in 246 plate appearances.
3. OF Aaron Hicks Low A - Beloit
Age: 19
Stats: .233 0 HR 8 RBI 2 SB
Has struggled so far in Beloit, but 13 games is too small of a sample size to make any judgments.
4. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Age: 21
Stats: .308 3 HR 18 RBI
Is apparently still far away from returning from a hamstring injury.
5. 1B/OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .262 10 HR 44 RBI
In the last 10 games he has gone .355-2-11 and went .293-4-15 in June.
6. RHP Carlos Gutierrez AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Total Stats: 82.2 IP 2.72 ERA 45 K
AA Stats: 28 IP 5.46 ERA 12 K
Finally had a good start in AA giving up 1 hit in 5 innings. Problem is that it was probably his last start of the year as they are moving him to the bullpen to limit his innings this year.
7. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Age: 25
Stats: 46.2 IP 2.70 ERA 65 K
Should be in Rochester. Should be in Rochester. Should be in Rochester.
8. OF Rene Tosoni AA - New Britain
Age: 23
Stats: .273 10 HR 47 RBI
Watch for him representing the World team on Sunday in the Futures Game.
9. RHP David Bromberg High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: 86.1 IP 2.71 ERA 76 K
Has only given up 4 home runs so far on the year and has an impressive 1.29 WHIP.
10. RHP Billy Bullock Rookie - Elizabethton
Age: 21
Stats: 5.1 IP 1.69 ERA 7 K
His professional career has gotten of to a very good start as the closer for Elizabethton.
Honorable Mention 1B/C Danny Rams Rookie - Elizabethton
Age: 20
Total Stats: .382 6 HR 23 RBI
Rookie Stats: .405 6 HR 20 RBI
Is not currently in my top 10 but needed a mention given the damage he is doing in Rookie ball. The second round pick in the 2007 draft is coming on strong. In only 11 rookie games he has 6 home runs, 20 RBI and an OPS of 1.486. The only issue is that he has struck out 17 times in 49 plate appearances. Another week or two of this and he will be in Beloit and on this list.
Age: 24
Total Stats: .304 9 HR 37 RBI
AAA Stats: .405 2 HR 8 RBI
It is basically a forgone conclusion that he will be a September call-up and the starting 3rd basemen in 2010. He has had no problem adjusting to AAA.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .304 2 HR 31 RBI 29 SB
Has struggled a little bit lately hitting .264 in June and .195 in his last 10 games. He is still having a good year striking out only 25 times in 313 plate appearances. Joe Mauer has struck out 29 times in 246 plate appearances.
3. OF Aaron Hicks Low A - Beloit
Age: 19
Stats: .233 0 HR 8 RBI 2 SB
Has struggled so far in Beloit, but 13 games is too small of a sample size to make any judgments.
4. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Age: 21
Stats: .308 3 HR 18 RBI
Is apparently still far away from returning from a hamstring injury.
5. 1B/OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .262 10 HR 44 RBI
In the last 10 games he has gone .355-2-11 and went .293-4-15 in June.
6. RHP Carlos Gutierrez AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Total Stats: 82.2 IP 2.72 ERA 45 K
AA Stats: 28 IP 5.46 ERA 12 K
Finally had a good start in AA giving up 1 hit in 5 innings. Problem is that it was probably his last start of the year as they are moving him to the bullpen to limit his innings this year.
7. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Age: 25
Stats: 46.2 IP 2.70 ERA 65 K
Should be in Rochester. Should be in Rochester. Should be in Rochester.
8. OF Rene Tosoni AA - New Britain
Age: 23
Stats: .273 10 HR 47 RBI
Watch for him representing the World team on Sunday in the Futures Game.
9. RHP David Bromberg High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: 86.1 IP 2.71 ERA 76 K
Has only given up 4 home runs so far on the year and has an impressive 1.29 WHIP.
10. RHP Billy Bullock Rookie - Elizabethton
Age: 21
Stats: 5.1 IP 1.69 ERA 7 K
His professional career has gotten of to a very good start as the closer for Elizabethton.
Honorable Mention 1B/C Danny Rams Rookie - Elizabethton
Age: 20
Total Stats: .382 6 HR 23 RBI
Rookie Stats: .405 6 HR 20 RBI
Is not currently in my top 10 but needed a mention given the damage he is doing in Rookie ball. The second round pick in the 2007 draft is coming on strong. In only 11 rookie games he has 6 home runs, 20 RBI and an OPS of 1.486. The only issue is that he has struck out 17 times in 49 plate appearances. Another week or two of this and he will be in Beloit and on this list.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Twins Prospect Power Rankings
1. Danny Valencia AAA - Rochester
Age: 24
Stats: .301 8 HR 33 RBI
Has shown that he was deserving of promotion to AAA on June 22 by hitting .500 (9-18) 1 HR 3 RBI in his first week. He is looking like a September callup.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .318 2 HR 30 RBI 28 SB
Is a model of consistency. There are some rumblings about moving him to second base because of his weak arm and a logjam in the outfield.
3. OF Aaron Hicks Low A - Beloit
Age: 19
Stats: .235 0 HR 3 RBI 1 SB
I have no idea why the Twins waited until the short-season started to move him to Beloit. Either he has a great eye or pitchers are pitching around him to get to the otherwise weak Beloit lineup because he has 5 walks in only 22 plate appearances.
4. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Age: 21
Stats: .308 3 HR 18 RBI
Was on an absolute tear in June hitting .400-2-6 but then strained his hamstring and is out for a month. He has only played in 36 games so far this year.
5. OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .264 9 HR 41 RBI
This may be a little high for him, but there is a large gap between the top 4 and the rest. He is the best power hitting prospect in the system as evidenced by him winning the Florida State League Home Run Derby. The best thing he has done is cut down on the strikeouts this year. In roughly the same amount of at-bats this year he has 57 strikeouts compared to last years 83.
6. RHP Carlos Gutierrez AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Stats: 73.2 IP 2.32 ERA 41 K
He has struggled in the promotion to AA by going 19 IP 5.21 ERA 8 K in four starts. AA batters are hitting .284 with 4 home runs against him while in High A they hit .192 and only 1 home run in 54.2 innings.
7. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Age: 25
Stats: 39.2 IP 2.50 ERA 55 K
With the rash of promotions around the minor league all-star games I have no idea why he is still in New Britain. He needs to be in Rochester if the Twins want him to help the bullpen next year.
8. OF Rene Tosoni AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Stats: .271 9 HR 45 RBI
Is the Twins representative in the Futures Game in St. Louis for the World team (He is from Canada). He is showing his potential after finally being healthy. One problem: he is hitting .143 against left-handed pitching.
9. RHP David Bromberg High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: 74.1 IP 2.66 ERA 69 K
Last start was a little rough but he is still a very good pitcher and has very good stuff.
10. RHP Billy Bullock Rookie - Elizabethton
Age: 21
Stats: 1 IP 0.00 ERA 2 K
Highest signed 2009 draft pick after being the Twins 2nd Round selection. Has a 96-98 mph fastball and needs to work on his second pitch, but as a college reliever he should move quickly up the system and could end this year in Beloit and will likely start 2010 in Fort Myers.
Age: 24
Stats: .301 8 HR 33 RBI
Has shown that he was deserving of promotion to AAA on June 22 by hitting .500 (9-18) 1 HR 3 RBI in his first week. He is looking like a September callup.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .318 2 HR 30 RBI 28 SB
Is a model of consistency. There are some rumblings about moving him to second base because of his weak arm and a logjam in the outfield.
3. OF Aaron Hicks Low A - Beloit
Age: 19
Stats: .235 0 HR 3 RBI 1 SB
I have no idea why the Twins waited until the short-season started to move him to Beloit. Either he has a great eye or pitchers are pitching around him to get to the otherwise weak Beloit lineup because he has 5 walks in only 22 plate appearances.
4. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Age: 21
Stats: .308 3 HR 18 RBI
Was on an absolute tear in June hitting .400-2-6 but then strained his hamstring and is out for a month. He has only played in 36 games so far this year.
5. OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .264 9 HR 41 RBI
This may be a little high for him, but there is a large gap between the top 4 and the rest. He is the best power hitting prospect in the system as evidenced by him winning the Florida State League Home Run Derby. The best thing he has done is cut down on the strikeouts this year. In roughly the same amount of at-bats this year he has 57 strikeouts compared to last years 83.
6. RHP Carlos Gutierrez AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Stats: 73.2 IP 2.32 ERA 41 K
He has struggled in the promotion to AA by going 19 IP 5.21 ERA 8 K in four starts. AA batters are hitting .284 with 4 home runs against him while in High A they hit .192 and only 1 home run in 54.2 innings.
7. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Age: 25
Stats: 39.2 IP 2.50 ERA 55 K
With the rash of promotions around the minor league all-star games I have no idea why he is still in New Britain. He needs to be in Rochester if the Twins want him to help the bullpen next year.
8. OF Rene Tosoni AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Stats: .271 9 HR 45 RBI
Is the Twins representative in the Futures Game in St. Louis for the World team (He is from Canada). He is showing his potential after finally being healthy. One problem: he is hitting .143 against left-handed pitching.
9. RHP David Bromberg High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: 74.1 IP 2.66 ERA 69 K
Last start was a little rough but he is still a very good pitcher and has very good stuff.
10. RHP Billy Bullock Rookie - Elizabethton
Age: 21
Stats: 1 IP 0.00 ERA 2 K
Highest signed 2009 draft pick after being the Twins 2nd Round selection. Has a 96-98 mph fastball and needs to work on his second pitch, but as a college reliever he should move quickly up the system and could end this year in Beloit and will likely start 2010 in Fort Myers.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Twins Prospect Power Rankings - Week 9
1. 3B Danny Valencia AA - New Britain
Age: 24
Stats: .284 6 HR 26 RBI
He is mired in a horrific slump hitting .074 in the month of June. He is still a top-notch prospect and the slump may be due to the fact he should be in AAA right now.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .327 1 HR 23 RBI 24 SB
Yes he has some issues with a slugging percentage of only .381, but he deserves a promotion to AA after the All-Star game that he will be participating in. He appears to a be a Denard Span carbon-copy.
3. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Age: 21
Stats: .292 1 HR 14 RBI
Has come back from his injury swinging. Since coming back he has hit .370 with 4 doubles and 5 RBI in 7 games. He will be in AA the entire year especially with Jose Morales in Rochester.
4. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
5. RHP Carlos Gutierrez AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Stats: 59.2 IP 1.96 ERA 36 K
Not a very good first start after getting a much deserved promotion from Fort Myers. He went 5 innings giving up 5 runs on 7 hits. This will be as far as he moves this year as there is talk of limiting his innings this year to 100 because he has never pitched that many innings before.
6. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Age: 25
Stats: 31 IP 2.90 ERA 47 K
Still strikes out an amazing amount of players but gives up a little too many hits and walks with a WHIP of 1.52. It would still be a crime if he is not in Rochester by the end of June.
7. 1B-OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .249 5 HR 28 RBI
Has not hit a home run in a long time but has a decent OBP of .327. He will spend the whole year in Fort Myers. The question is whether he will perform well enough to make it to New Britain next year.
8. 2B Brian Dinkelman AA - New Britain
Age: 25
Stats: .330 3 HR 32 RBI
Not alot of power but he has 14 doubles and is doing well driving in runs in the 3 hole for New Britain. They need to clear the logjam in Rochester to make room for him so he can be challenged.
9. OF Rene Tosoni AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Stats: .272 8 HR 32 RBI
Continues to produce hitting .379 in the last 10 games. He will likely spend the season in New Britain.
10. RHP David Bromberg High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: 56.2 IP 2.06 ERA 50 K
While a lot has been made of Carlos Gutierrez in Fort Myers, Bromberg has quietly been producing and stiking out more batters. With a lack of quality starters in New Britain outside of Gutierrez he should get a call up at some point this year but probably not until at least July.
With the MLB Draft tommorrow, I will post a very uninformed reaction to the draft, but it will list who was drafted. Who knows by the end of the year, one of those players may be on this list.
A site I like is TFLN (Texts From Last Night). Here is your TFLN of the Day:
(315): I told him to come back in 5mins cause i needed to take a few more shots before i could talk to him
Age: 24
Stats: .284 6 HR 26 RBI
He is mired in a horrific slump hitting .074 in the month of June. He is still a top-notch prospect and the slump may be due to the fact he should be in AAA right now.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .327 1 HR 23 RBI 24 SB
Yes he has some issues with a slugging percentage of only .381, but he deserves a promotion to AA after the All-Star game that he will be participating in. He appears to a be a Denard Span carbon-copy.
3. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Age: 21
Stats: .292 1 HR 14 RBI
Has come back from his injury swinging. Since coming back he has hit .370 with 4 doubles and 5 RBI in 7 games. He will be in AA the entire year especially with Jose Morales in Rochester.
4. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
5. RHP Carlos Gutierrez AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Stats: 59.2 IP 1.96 ERA 36 K
Not a very good first start after getting a much deserved promotion from Fort Myers. He went 5 innings giving up 5 runs on 7 hits. This will be as far as he moves this year as there is talk of limiting his innings this year to 100 because he has never pitched that many innings before.
6. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Age: 25
Stats: 31 IP 2.90 ERA 47 K
Still strikes out an amazing amount of players but gives up a little too many hits and walks with a WHIP of 1.52. It would still be a crime if he is not in Rochester by the end of June.
7. 1B-OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: .249 5 HR 28 RBI
Has not hit a home run in a long time but has a decent OBP of .327. He will spend the whole year in Fort Myers. The question is whether he will perform well enough to make it to New Britain next year.
8. 2B Brian Dinkelman AA - New Britain
Age: 25
Stats: .330 3 HR 32 RBI
Not alot of power but he has 14 doubles and is doing well driving in runs in the 3 hole for New Britain. They need to clear the logjam in Rochester to make room for him so he can be challenged.
9. OF Rene Tosoni AA - New Britain
Age: 22
Stats: .272 8 HR 32 RBI
Continues to produce hitting .379 in the last 10 games. He will likely spend the season in New Britain.
10. RHP David Bromberg High A - Fort Myers
Age: 21
Stats: 56.2 IP 2.06 ERA 50 K
While a lot has been made of Carlos Gutierrez in Fort Myers, Bromberg has quietly been producing and stiking out more batters. With a lack of quality starters in New Britain outside of Gutierrez he should get a call up at some point this year but probably not until at least July.
With the MLB Draft tommorrow, I will post a very uninformed reaction to the draft, but it will list who was drafted. Who knows by the end of the year, one of those players may be on this list.
A site I like is TFLN (Texts From Last Night). Here is your TFLN of the Day:
(315): I told him to come back in 5mins cause i needed to take a few more shots before i could talk to him
Monday, June 1, 2009
Twins Prospect Power Rankings - Week 8
1. 3B Danny Valencia AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .324 6 HR 24 RBI
Only 6 home runs may not be impressive but he has an impressive slugging percentage of .570 thanks to 9 doubles and 4 triples.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 21
Stats: .346 1 HR 23 RBI 21 SB
The dude just makes contact. When you have more stolen bases than strikeouts (15) in 179 AB you are doing something right.
3. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 21
Stats: On Sunday he appeared as a defensive replacement for the first time since May 8th when he broke his finger.
4. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
The wait for Aaron Hicks is near the end as Elizabethton starts their season on June 23.
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 25
Stats: 27 IP 3.00 ERA 41 K 10 SV
Had a couple bad appearances but still ready to be moved to AAA and I don't see why he hasn't been moved yet.
6. RHP Carlos Gutierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 6
Age: 22
Stats: 49.2 IP 1.09 ERA 32 K
I guess that is one way to keep your ERA low in his last start 7 runs were scored in 3.2 innings but he was only charged with 1 earned run because of 7 errors in the game. The problem is that 2 of them were his.
7. OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 21
Stats: .260 5 HR 27 RBI
Has gone a while without a home run but he is in a very pitcher friendly league as he is tied for 12th in home runs. Good news is that he is hitting .297 in the last 10 games and hit .318 in May.
8. 2B Brian Dinkelman AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 25
Stats: .337 3 HR 30 RBI
Despite his numbers the Twins promoted Steve Tolleson who was hitting .258-2-13 in AA to replace Alexi Casilla in Rochester. Yeah that makes sense.
9. DH Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 9
Age: 24
Stats: .261 6 HR 28 RBI
Has not played since May 22 and I have not been able to find out why. It must not be a big injury as he is not on the disabled list.
10. OF Rene Tosoni AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: NR
Age: 22
Stats: .266 8 HR 30 RBI
Struggled with injuries last year but showed enough to get moved to New Britain and has started to show why. In his last 4 games he has gone 6-13 with 2 HR and 8 RBI. Of those 6 hits only 1 is a single.
Demoted of List: OF Evan Bigley
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .324 6 HR 24 RBI
Only 6 home runs may not be impressive but he has an impressive slugging percentage of .570 thanks to 9 doubles and 4 triples.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 21
Stats: .346 1 HR 23 RBI 21 SB
The dude just makes contact. When you have more stolen bases than strikeouts (15) in 179 AB you are doing something right.
3. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 21
Stats: On Sunday he appeared as a defensive replacement for the first time since May 8th when he broke his finger.
4. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
The wait for Aaron Hicks is near the end as Elizabethton starts their season on June 23.
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 25
Stats: 27 IP 3.00 ERA 41 K 10 SV
Had a couple bad appearances but still ready to be moved to AAA and I don't see why he hasn't been moved yet.
6. RHP Carlos Gutierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 6
Age: 22
Stats: 49.2 IP 1.09 ERA 32 K
I guess that is one way to keep your ERA low in his last start 7 runs were scored in 3.2 innings but he was only charged with 1 earned run because of 7 errors in the game. The problem is that 2 of them were his.
7. OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 21
Stats: .260 5 HR 27 RBI
Has gone a while without a home run but he is in a very pitcher friendly league as he is tied for 12th in home runs. Good news is that he is hitting .297 in the last 10 games and hit .318 in May.
8. 2B Brian Dinkelman AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 25
Stats: .337 3 HR 30 RBI
Despite his numbers the Twins promoted Steve Tolleson who was hitting .258-2-13 in AA to replace Alexi Casilla in Rochester. Yeah that makes sense.
9. DH Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 9
Age: 24
Stats: .261 6 HR 28 RBI
Has not played since May 22 and I have not been able to find out why. It must not be a big injury as he is not on the disabled list.
10. OF Rene Tosoni AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: NR
Age: 22
Stats: .266 8 HR 30 RBI
Struggled with injuries last year but showed enough to get moved to New Britain and has started to show why. In his last 4 games he has gone 6-13 with 2 HR and 8 RBI. Of those 6 hits only 1 is a single.
Demoted of List: OF Evan Bigley
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Twins Prospect Power Rankings - Week 7
1. 3B Danny Valencia AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .339 5 HR 22 RBI
The Twins need to solve the logjam at 3rd base in Rochester because Valencia is wasting everyone's time dominating AA.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 21
Stats: .335 1 HR 20 RBI 18 SB
He clearly is a very good hitter but he is strictly a singles hitter. It is also a little concerning that he is only 18 for 28 on stolen base attempts. I think the Twins should still push him to AA at some point this year.
3. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 21
Stats: .269 1 HR 10 RBI
Has not played since May 8th due to a broken finger.
4. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
Many fans are growing impatient of not seeing him play.
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 25
Stats: 24.1 IP 2.59 ERA 38 K 9 SV
The Twins have determined he isn't ready yet for the Majors but why he is still in AA is beyond me. He is already 25 and dominating AA.
6. RHP Carlos Guetierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 22
Stats: 46 IP 0.98 ERA 29 K
All indications are that he will be moved to AA by June. He does not strike out a lot but batters are hitting .159 against him.
7. 1B/OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 9
Age: 21
Stats: .267 5 HR 26 RBI
Is in a little of a home run drought but is hitting .324 in his last 10 games and has an OBP of .346
8. 2B Brian Dinkelman AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 10
Age: 25
Stats: .343 3 HR 29 RBI
Is another player in AA who should be in AAA. The Twins have got to make room for him, Valencia and Slama to move up in June. Could be called up once they move Casilla back up.
9. 3B Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 24
Stats: .261 6 HR 28 RBI
Yes, he can hit, but he has no position to play and his main function right now is to block Valencia at 3rd base.
10. OF Evan Bigley High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: NR
Age: 22
Stats: .308 2 HR 22 RBI
Has not slowed down after getting called up from Beloit in the middle of May going .311-0-4 in 12 games at Fort Myers.
Promoted off List: RHP Anthony Swarzak
Players of Interest
2B Alexi Casilla: .328 0 HR 7 RBI 6 SB
C Jose Morales: .267 0 HR 5 RBI
RHP Phillip Humber: 25 IP 6.12 ERA 19 K
RHP Juan Morillo: 15 IP 3.00 ERA 19 K 7 BB
RHP Deolis Guerra: 46.1 IP 5.05 ERA 32 K
OF Angel Morales: .223 5 HR 20 RBI
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .339 5 HR 22 RBI
The Twins need to solve the logjam at 3rd base in Rochester because Valencia is wasting everyone's time dominating AA.
2. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 21
Stats: .335 1 HR 20 RBI 18 SB
He clearly is a very good hitter but he is strictly a singles hitter. It is also a little concerning that he is only 18 for 28 on stolen base attempts. I think the Twins should still push him to AA at some point this year.
3. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 21
Stats: .269 1 HR 10 RBI
Has not played since May 8th due to a broken finger.
4. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
Many fans are growing impatient of not seeing him play.
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 25
Stats: 24.1 IP 2.59 ERA 38 K 9 SV
The Twins have determined he isn't ready yet for the Majors but why he is still in AA is beyond me. He is already 25 and dominating AA.
6. RHP Carlos Guetierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 22
Stats: 46 IP 0.98 ERA 29 K
All indications are that he will be moved to AA by June. He does not strike out a lot but batters are hitting .159 against him.
7. 1B/OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 9
Age: 21
Stats: .267 5 HR 26 RBI
Is in a little of a home run drought but is hitting .324 in his last 10 games and has an OBP of .346
8. 2B Brian Dinkelman AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 10
Age: 25
Stats: .343 3 HR 29 RBI
Is another player in AA who should be in AAA. The Twins have got to make room for him, Valencia and Slama to move up in June. Could be called up once they move Casilla back up.
9. 3B Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 24
Stats: .261 6 HR 28 RBI
Yes, he can hit, but he has no position to play and his main function right now is to block Valencia at 3rd base.
10. OF Evan Bigley High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: NR
Age: 22
Stats: .308 2 HR 22 RBI
Has not slowed down after getting called up from Beloit in the middle of May going .311-0-4 in 12 games at Fort Myers.
Promoted off List: RHP Anthony Swarzak
Players of Interest
2B Alexi Casilla: .328 0 HR 7 RBI 6 SB
C Jose Morales: .267 0 HR 5 RBI
RHP Phillip Humber: 25 IP 6.12 ERA 19 K
RHP Juan Morillo: 15 IP 3.00 ERA 19 K 7 BB
RHP Deolis Guerra: 46.1 IP 5.05 ERA 32 K
OF Angel Morales: .223 5 HR 20 RBI
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Twins Prospect Power Rankings - Week 5
Note: With a lot of recent demotions by the Twins there are a lot of players in the minors that I do not deem prospects (prospects to me mean players that have yet to be on the teams 25 man roster). To cover them I have also added a section of players of interest.
1. 3B Danny Valencia AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .275 3 HR 9 RBI
Did not play this week due to a sore wrist but should be back at any time.
2. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 21
Stats: .269 1 HR 10 RBI
Is struggling a little on offense with a .289 OBP and a .344 SLG with only 5 extra base hits.
3. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 21
Stats: .308 1 HR 17 RBI 15 SB
Basically a singles hitter with only 3 extra base hits but he gets on base and steals a lot of bases when he does.
4. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 25
Stats: 15.1 IP 2.35 ERA 26 K
Has struggled a little recently but 26 strikeouts in 15 innings is a very good rate.
6. RHP Anthony Swarzak AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 6
Age: 23
Stats: 31 IP 2.03 ERA 23 K
A sign he is favor with the Twins brass. He has only walked 6 batters in 31 innings.
7. RHP Carlos Guetierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 22
Stats: 30 IP 1.50 ERA 19 K
Had his worst start of the season this year and it still was a quality start at 7 IP 3 ER and 6 K. Batters are only hitting .162 against him.
8. 3B Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 24
Stats: .286 5 HR 20 RBI
Had a big week taking the organization home run lead from Parmelee. Has a very respectable OPS of .903.
9. 1B/OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 9
Age: 21
Stats: .241 4 HR 21 RBI
Has done a good job recently cutting down the strikeouts striking out only 6 times in the last 30 at-bats. That may not sound impressive but before that he had struck out 15 times in 57 at-bats.
10. 2B Brian Dinkelman AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 10
Age: 25
Stats: .337 1 HR 17 RBI
Is hitting .436 in the last 10 games but only one extra base hit which was a double.
Players of Interest
2B Alexi Casilla - .429 (6 for 14) 0 HR 4 RBI 2 SB
C Jose Morales - .300 (6 for 20) 0 HR 4 RBI
RHP Phillip Humber - 10.2 IP 5.06 ERA 8 K
RHP Juan Morillo - 8 IP 3.38 ERA 10 K 4 BB
1. 3B Danny Valencia AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .275 3 HR 9 RBI
Did not play this week due to a sore wrist but should be back at any time.
2. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 21
Stats: .269 1 HR 10 RBI
Is struggling a little on offense with a .289 OBP and a .344 SLG with only 5 extra base hits.
3. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 21
Stats: .308 1 HR 17 RBI 15 SB
Basically a singles hitter with only 3 extra base hits but he gets on base and steals a lot of bases when he does.
4. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 25
Stats: 15.1 IP 2.35 ERA 26 K
Has struggled a little recently but 26 strikeouts in 15 innings is a very good rate.
6. RHP Anthony Swarzak AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 6
Age: 23
Stats: 31 IP 2.03 ERA 23 K
A sign he is favor with the Twins brass. He has only walked 6 batters in 31 innings.
7. RHP Carlos Guetierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 22
Stats: 30 IP 1.50 ERA 19 K
Had his worst start of the season this year and it still was a quality start at 7 IP 3 ER and 6 K. Batters are only hitting .162 against him.
8. 3B Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 24
Stats: .286 5 HR 20 RBI
Had a big week taking the organization home run lead from Parmelee. Has a very respectable OPS of .903.
9. 1B/OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 9
Age: 21
Stats: .241 4 HR 21 RBI
Has done a good job recently cutting down the strikeouts striking out only 6 times in the last 30 at-bats. That may not sound impressive but before that he had struck out 15 times in 57 at-bats.
10. 2B Brian Dinkelman AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 10
Age: 25
Stats: .337 1 HR 17 RBI
Is hitting .436 in the last 10 games but only one extra base hit which was a double.
Players of Interest
2B Alexi Casilla - .429 (6 for 14) 0 HR 4 RBI 2 SB
C Jose Morales - .300 (6 for 20) 0 HR 4 RBI
RHP Phillip Humber - 10.2 IP 5.06 ERA 8 K
RHP Juan Morillo - 8 IP 3.38 ERA 10 K 4 BB
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Twins Prospects Power Rankings
1. 3B Danny Valencia AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .275 3 HR 9 RBI
Is just consistent but has yet to make a huge push and might spend the entire year in AA.
2. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 21
Stats: .275 1 HR 8 RBI
Not a bad start for a 21 year old catcher in AA, but he has not hit for much power with 5 extra base hits in 80 at-bats.
3. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 21
Stats: .283 1 HR 14 RBI 12 SB
Batting average may not be as impressive as last year but a 12 walks and only 7 strikeouts is likely to impress the Twins brass.
4. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 25
Stats: 11.2 IP 2.31 ERA 20 K 3 SV
Struggled a little this week giving up his first runs, but the Star Tribune mentioned that Gardenhire has asked about Slama with the struggles of Dickey, Breslow and Ayala.
6. RHP Anthony Swarzak AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 23
Stats: 24 IP 2.25 ERA 17 K
Looks to have finally realized his potential the 2004 2nd round pick and has put the Banned Substance suspension of 2007 behind him.
7. RHP Carlos Guetierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 22
Stats: 23 IP 0.78 ERA 13 K
Somehow has yet to get a win despite a WHIP of 0.65 and batters are batting only .135 against him. He will be in New Britain by June if he continues.
8. 3B Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 6
Age: 24
Stats: .246 3 HR 15 RBI
20 strikeouts in only 70 at-bats is not a good sign. Combined with the 5 errors he has a lot of work to do if he wants to be the Twins third baseman of the future.
9. 1B/OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 10
Age: 21
Stats: .239 4 HR 16 RBI
Has actually hit .282 in the last 10 games. He is the only Twins minor leaguer with 4 home runs so far and is tied for 6th in the FSL in home runs.
10. 2B Brian Dinkelman AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: NR
Age: 25
Stats: .343 1 HR 15 RBI 2 SB
Has adjusted to AA very well and continues to produce. The problem for him is that he lacks power and speed that will make the Twins make room for him in the future. He is very similar to Matt Tolbert.
Fell from Rankings: Joe Benson
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .275 3 HR 9 RBI
Is just consistent but has yet to make a huge push and might spend the entire year in AA.
2. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 21
Stats: .275 1 HR 8 RBI
Not a bad start for a 21 year old catcher in AA, but he has not hit for much power with 5 extra base hits in 80 at-bats.
3. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 21
Stats: .283 1 HR 14 RBI 12 SB
Batting average may not be as impressive as last year but a 12 walks and only 7 strikeouts is likely to impress the Twins brass.
4. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 25
Stats: 11.2 IP 2.31 ERA 20 K 3 SV
Struggled a little this week giving up his first runs, but the Star Tribune mentioned that Gardenhire has asked about Slama with the struggles of Dickey, Breslow and Ayala.
6. RHP Anthony Swarzak AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 23
Stats: 24 IP 2.25 ERA 17 K
Looks to have finally realized his potential the 2004 2nd round pick and has put the Banned Substance suspension of 2007 behind him.
7. RHP Carlos Guetierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 22
Stats: 23 IP 0.78 ERA 13 K
Somehow has yet to get a win despite a WHIP of 0.65 and batters are batting only .135 against him. He will be in New Britain by June if he continues.
8. 3B Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 6
Age: 24
Stats: .246 3 HR 15 RBI
20 strikeouts in only 70 at-bats is not a good sign. Combined with the 5 errors he has a lot of work to do if he wants to be the Twins third baseman of the future.
9. 1B/OF Chris Parmelee High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 10
Age: 21
Stats: .239 4 HR 16 RBI
Has actually hit .282 in the last 10 games. He is the only Twins minor leaguer with 4 home runs so far and is tied for 6th in the FSL in home runs.
10. 2B Brian Dinkelman AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: NR
Age: 25
Stats: .343 1 HR 15 RBI 2 SB
Has adjusted to AA very well and continues to produce. The problem for him is that he lacks power and speed that will make the Twins make room for him in the future. He is very similar to Matt Tolbert.
Fell from Rankings: Joe Benson
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Twins Prospect Power Rankings - Week 2
1. 3B Danny Valencia AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .314 1 HR 2 RBI
Hasn't shown much power but has shown patience at the plate with 10 walks and a OBP of .478.
2. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 21
Stats: .220 1 HR 5 RBI
Has been a little streaky so far at the plate, but does not look overwhelmed at the AA level.
3. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
4. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 6
Age: 20
Stats: .316 1 HR 8 RBI 4 SB
Has continued to hit well at Fort Myers. Has hit .438 in the last 5 games.
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 24
Stats: 5 IP 0.00 ERA 9 K
Has continued his domination in AA. With the Twins bullpen issues it is very possible to see him up with the big club later this year at least by September.
6. RHP Anthony Swarzak AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 23
Stats: 2 Starts, 11 IP 0.82 ERA 9 K
Has had two very good starts with a WHIP of 0.82. Would likely be the first call-up to the rotation should someone go down for an extended period of time. That would change it Humber somehow clears waivers.
7. 3B Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 24
Stats: .219 1 HR 8 RBI
Is struggling to hit for average and already has 4 errors on the season. Not a very good start.
8. LHP Jose Mijares AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 9
Age: 24
Stats: 6.1 IP 0.00 ERA 4 K
Has seemed to have bounced back for terrible spring with only 1 walk in over 6 innings. If he continues he should be moved up to the Majors by May.
9. RHP Carlos Gutierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 22
Stats: 2 Starts 11 IP 0.82 ERA 8 K
The talk through the organization is that he could move up very quickly. With starts like he has had so far he could be in New Britain by June.
10. OF Joe Benson High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: NR
Age: 21
Stats: .343 1 HR 7 RBI 1 SB
Has been set back by injuries so far in his minor league career but is a great athlete and has gotten off to a very good start so far this year.
Fell out of rankings: Shooter Hunt
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .314 1 HR 2 RBI
Hasn't shown much power but has shown patience at the plate with 10 walks and a OBP of .478.
2. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 21
Stats: .220 1 HR 5 RBI
Has been a little streaky so far at the plate, but does not look overwhelmed at the AA level.
3. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
4. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 6
Age: 20
Stats: .316 1 HR 8 RBI 4 SB
Has continued to hit well at Fort Myers. Has hit .438 in the last 5 games.
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 24
Stats: 5 IP 0.00 ERA 9 K
Has continued his domination in AA. With the Twins bullpen issues it is very possible to see him up with the big club later this year at least by September.
6. RHP Anthony Swarzak AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 23
Stats: 2 Starts, 11 IP 0.82 ERA 9 K
Has had two very good starts with a WHIP of 0.82. Would likely be the first call-up to the rotation should someone go down for an extended period of time. That would change it Humber somehow clears waivers.
7. 3B Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 24
Stats: .219 1 HR 8 RBI
Is struggling to hit for average and already has 4 errors on the season. Not a very good start.
8. LHP Jose Mijares AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 9
Age: 24
Stats: 6.1 IP 0.00 ERA 4 K
Has seemed to have bounced back for terrible spring with only 1 walk in over 6 innings. If he continues he should be moved up to the Majors by May.
9. RHP Carlos Gutierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 22
Stats: 2 Starts 11 IP 0.82 ERA 8 K
The talk through the organization is that he could move up very quickly. With starts like he has had so far he could be in New Britain by June.
10. OF Joe Benson High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: NR
Age: 21
Stats: .343 1 HR 7 RBI 1 SB
Has been set back by injuries so far in his minor league career but is a great athlete and has gotten off to a very good start so far this year.
Fell out of rankings: Shooter Hunt
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Twins Prospect Rankings - Week 1
1. 3B Danny Valencia AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .286 0 HR 0 RBI
Showed off MLB ready glove during spring training and did not embarrass himself at the plate hitting .429
2. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 9
Age: 21
Stats: .176 1 HR 2 RBI
Has an absolute cannon of an arm, throwing out 3 of 4 stolen base attempts in spring training. Also hit .375 in spring training
3. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
Twins showed off their conservatism again by not sending Aaron Hicks to Beloit. He may not be as fortunate as Ben Revere who took advantage of injuries last year to dominate Beloit.
4. 3B Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 24
Stats: .250 1 HR 4 RBI
Missed parts of spring training due to WBC, but showed the offensive game when he was around hitting .429. Issue for him is Valencia is much better defensively.
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 24
Stats: 2 IP 0.00 ERA 3 K
Very impressive first outing in AA.
6. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 6
Age: 20
Stats: .111 0 HR 1 RBI 1 SB
Only 1 hit so far but already has 1 stolen base.
7. RHP Anthony Swarzak AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 23
Stats: 4 IP 0.00 ERA 4 K
Not a bad first start, but the ability of the Twins to get spot starts from Dickey, Duensing or Humber likely rules out Swarzak making a start this year. Pitched 3 shutout innings in spring training.
8. RHP Carlos Gutierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: NR
Age: 22
Stats: 2 IP 0.00 ERA 2 K
Pitched a shutout inning for Puerto Rico in the WBC. The Twins think very highly of him and impressed following Scott Baker in his first appearance.
9. LHP Jose Mijares AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 24
Stats: 2 IP 0.00 ERA 2 K
Had an absolutely brutal spring with an ERA of 9.90 in 10 innings. Failed to make the team even though they gave him every chance to. If he can turn it around he will likely get the call but he has to avoid making this a lost season. First appearance in AAA was a good start.
10. RHP Shooter Hunt Low A - Beloit
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 22
Stats: 3.1 IP 8.10 ERA 1 K
First start of the year showcased what his issues are. He walked 4 batters in 3.1 innings. He has got to get control if he is going to showcase his amazing stuff.
Fell out of rankings: OF Angel Morales
Previous Rank: 1
Age: 24
Stats: .286 0 HR 0 RBI
Showed off MLB ready glove during spring training and did not embarrass himself at the plate hitting .429
2. C Wilson Ramos AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 9
Age: 21
Stats: .176 1 HR 2 RBI
Has an absolute cannon of an arm, throwing out 3 of 4 stolen base attempts in spring training. Also hit .375 in spring training
3. OF Aaron Hicks Rookie - Elizabethton
Previous Rank: 2
Age: 19
Stats: N/A
Twins showed off their conservatism again by not sending Aaron Hicks to Beloit. He may not be as fortunate as Ben Revere who took advantage of injuries last year to dominate Beloit.
4. 3B Luke Hughes AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 4
Age: 24
Stats: .250 1 HR 4 RBI
Missed parts of spring training due to WBC, but showed the offensive game when he was around hitting .429. Issue for him is Valencia is much better defensively.
5. RHP Anthony Slama AA - New Britain
Previous Rank: 5
Age: 24
Stats: 2 IP 0.00 ERA 3 K
Very impressive first outing in AA.
6. OF Ben Revere High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: 6
Age: 20
Stats: .111 0 HR 1 RBI 1 SB
Only 1 hit so far but already has 1 stolen base.
7. RHP Anthony Swarzak AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 7
Age: 23
Stats: 4 IP 0.00 ERA 4 K
Not a bad first start, but the ability of the Twins to get spot starts from Dickey, Duensing or Humber likely rules out Swarzak making a start this year. Pitched 3 shutout innings in spring training.
8. RHP Carlos Gutierrez High A - Fort Myers
Previous Rank: NR
Age: 22
Stats: 2 IP 0.00 ERA 2 K
Pitched a shutout inning for Puerto Rico in the WBC. The Twins think very highly of him and impressed following Scott Baker in his first appearance.
9. LHP Jose Mijares AAA - Rochester
Previous Rank: 3
Age: 24
Stats: 2 IP 0.00 ERA 2 K
Had an absolutely brutal spring with an ERA of 9.90 in 10 innings. Failed to make the team even though they gave him every chance to. If he can turn it around he will likely get the call but he has to avoid making this a lost season. First appearance in AAA was a good start.
10. RHP Shooter Hunt Low A - Beloit
Previous Rank: 8
Age: 22
Stats: 3.1 IP 8.10 ERA 1 K
First start of the year showcased what his issues are. He walked 4 batters in 3.1 innings. He has got to get control if he is going to showcase his amazing stuff.
Fell out of rankings: OF Angel Morales
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
A Buffet of Twins News
- The Twins have before anyone has even pitched an inning in Spring Training announced the starting pitching rotation for 2009. It follows as Scott Baker, Francisco Liriano, Kevin Slowey, Glen Perkins and Nick Blackburn. The only suprise is the order with Blackburn pitching 5th but that truly does not matter in the scheme of things.
- Boof Bonser is going to have exploratory surgery to try and find why his shoulder is bothering him after they found no structural damage in the MRI. He will not be headed north with the club to start the year and depending on what they find he could be out longer. This clears room for Phil Humber to make the roster or even room for Juan Cruz. It is possible we never see Boof in a Twins uniform again.
- Baseball America has released its Top 100 prospects for 2009 and 3 Twins made the cut. Aaron Hicks was #39, Ben Revere was #59 and Wilson Ramos was #71. The Twins also had 3 last year with two of them being Carlos Gomez and Nick Blackburn. The top prospect is catcher Matt Wieters of Baltimore with David Price the pitcher for Tampa Bay a close 2nd.
- The final rosters have been announced for the World Baseball Classic. I will do a preview of the Classic next week but the rosters include many Twins. Here are those who will participate: Joe Nathan (USA), Justin Morneau (Canada), Nick Punto (Italy), Jesse Crain (Canada) and Luis Ayala (Mexico). There are also plenty of Twins prospects on rosters. They are: Carlos Gutierrez (Puerto Rico), Luke Hughes (Australia), Robb Hein (South Africa), Tom Stuifbergen (Netherlands), Liam Hendriks (Australia), James Beresford (Australia) and Daniel Berg (Australia).
- Some thoughts about the rosters. I enjoy the World Classic but I am glad that players such as Mauer, Liriano and Mijares decided not to participate. All three need to be in camp to help us in the upcoming season. It will be hard not to root for Justin Morneau if Canada plays the USA. Also, looking at the rosters I do not get why the Twins seem to be picking up a lot of Australian players. They have 4 guys on the team and I dont't get it. I can't think of one Australian player who has ever contributed in the MLB. The rosters also show the discrepency between countries. On the Dominican Republic team Carlos Gomez and Casilla don't make the team because Robinson Cano, Moises Alou and Hanley Ramirez are there and then Twins prospects I have never heard of like Tom Stuifbergen (turns out he was a relief pitcher on our Rookie team last year) are starters for another team.
- Before I go I need to mention that the Twins Spring Training season gets underway tommorrow as they face Boston at 6:05. Glen Perkins will take the mound and no Joe Crede will not play tommorrow. The Twins have stated his first game will be Friday. The main interesting note is Wilson Ramos will see some time at catcher tommorrow.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Pre-Season Top 10 Twins Prospects
This is my pre-season top 10 prospects in the Twins organization. It is a combination of potential and how soon they can contribute. Unlike most years the Twins don't have much for starting pitching in the minors. The two of the best starting pitchers were drafted this past June. The Twins do have so good prospect however. I will update these rankings throughout the 2009 season.
1. Danny Valencia 3b Age: 24
Last year: .311 15 hrs 76 rbi in High A and AA.
This year: Will start in AA but could end up in AAA
When will we see him: Could be the starting 3b opening day in Target Field in 2010.
Best case pro potential: Mike Lowell
Notes: He doesn't have prodigic power but could be a 20 hr guy in the majors. He has hit for good average and will compete with Luke Hughes for the 3b spot in 2010.
2. Aaron Hicks OF Age: 19
Last year: .318 4 hr 27 rbi 12 sb in rookie ball
This year: Will be the everyday CF for Beloit - Low A
When will we see him: 2013
Best case pro potential: Grady Sizemore
Notes: Has the most potential of any Twins prospect. Was the Twins 1st round pick last year. Baseball America labeled him the best player in Rookie ball last year. He only has a half year of experience so this year will be big to see if the hype is real or if he has a lot of work to do still.
3. Jose Mijares LHP Age: 24
Last year: 0.87 ERA with Twins as September call-up in 10.1 IP. 2.70 ERA, 36.2 IP and 41 SO in minors:
This year: Will be in the Twins Bullpen
When will we see him: 2009
Best case pro potential: Eddie Guardado before injuries
Notes: Excelled as a September call-up last year and should get a lot of work this year as a lefty and will see most likely the 7th inning. With Neshek's injury Mijares could be the closer in waiting.
4. Luke Hughes 3B Age: 24
Last year: .309 18 hr 61 rbi with AA and AAA
This year: Starting 3B in AAA
When will we see him: September 2009
Best case pro potential: Mark Reynolds
Notes: This is a telling year for Hughes. He came out of nowhere last year for a breakout year. This will tell if he was a fluke last year or a developing prospect. He will likely be a September call-up this year and will compete with Danny Valencia for 3B next year. Needs to work on defense and cut down on strikeouts.
5. Anthony Slama RHP Age: 24
Last year: 1.01 ERA, 71 IP, 110 SO, 25 Saves with High A
This year: Will be closer in AA New Britain
When will we see him: 2010
Best case pro potential: Joe Nathan
Notes: Dominated the Florida State league last year. Was named the best reliever in Class A. Could follow track similar to Mijares. Will be in AA next year and could be in the bullpen in 2010.
6. Ben Revere OF Age: 20
Last year: .379 1 hr, 43 rbi 44 sb for Low A Beloit
This year: Starting CF for High A Fort Myers
When will we see him: 2012
Best case pro potential: Willy Taveras
Notes: Had a great year last year flirting with hitting .400 before dealing with injuries. His potential is limited though has he has no power and has a limited arm. Plays very similar to Denard Span. I think he will get passed by Aaron Hicks in the organization.
7. Anthony Swarzak RHP Age: 23
Last year: 1.80 ERA, 7 starts, 45 IP, 26 SO in AAA
This year: Starting Pitcher in AAA
When will we see him: September 2009
Best case pro potential: Scott Baker
Notes: Is the first starting pitcher in the rankings which is unusual for a Twins organization. Was struggling in AA but got called up to AAA and excelled. Was a 2nd round pick in 2004. He could go either way has he lack consistency. He won't be a starter until there is an injury or opening in the rotation. Could help the bullpen in September.
8. Shooter Hunt RHP Age: 22
Last year: 3.58 ERA, 11 starts, 50 IP, 68 SO in Rookie and Low A
This year: Starting Pitcher in Low A Beloit
When will we see him: 2012
Best case pro potential: Matt Garza
Notes: Dominated Rookie ball in 4 starts with a .066 Opp batting average. Tired at the end of the year after pitching in college and minors in the same year. Struggled with control in Low A. Could follow the Matt Garza track and fly through the minors. I don't expect him to end the season in Beloit. I want him to succeed just because he has a great name. This name puts Boof to shame.
9. Wilson Ramos C Age: 21
Last year: .288 13 hr 78 rbi
This year: Starting C for AA New Britain
When will we see him: 2011
Best case pro potential: Bengie Molina
Notes: Has very good power for a catcher hitting 13 home runs in the pitcher friendly FSL. He might need to find a new position as it is currently blocked by Joe Mauer. He could replace Redmond or catch if Mauer needs to change position as he hits 30. They will try to find a way for him if he keeps producing.
10. Angel Morales OF Age: 19
Last year: .301 15 hr 28 rbi in 183 Ab in Elizabethtown.
This year: Starting OF in Low A Beloit
When will we see him: 2013
Best case pro potential: Jason Bay
Notes. Hit a home run every 12.2 Ab last year. Still very young not turning 20 until November. Has a long way to go but should be very interesting to watch him and Hicks in the OF in Beloit this year.
Honorable Mention: Chris Parmalee 1B/OF, Carlos Gutierrez RHP, Kevin Mulvey RHP, Deolis Guerra RHP
1. Danny Valencia 3b Age: 24
Last year: .311 15 hrs 76 rbi in High A and AA.
This year: Will start in AA but could end up in AAA
When will we see him: Could be the starting 3b opening day in Target Field in 2010.
Best case pro potential: Mike Lowell
Notes: He doesn't have prodigic power but could be a 20 hr guy in the majors. He has hit for good average and will compete with Luke Hughes for the 3b spot in 2010.
2. Aaron Hicks OF Age: 19
Last year: .318 4 hr 27 rbi 12 sb in rookie ball
This year: Will be the everyday CF for Beloit - Low A
When will we see him: 2013
Best case pro potential: Grady Sizemore
Notes: Has the most potential of any Twins prospect. Was the Twins 1st round pick last year. Baseball America labeled him the best player in Rookie ball last year. He only has a half year of experience so this year will be big to see if the hype is real or if he has a lot of work to do still.
3. Jose Mijares LHP Age: 24
Last year: 0.87 ERA with Twins as September call-up in 10.1 IP. 2.70 ERA, 36.2 IP and 41 SO in minors:
This year: Will be in the Twins Bullpen
When will we see him: 2009
Best case pro potential: Eddie Guardado before injuries
Notes: Excelled as a September call-up last year and should get a lot of work this year as a lefty and will see most likely the 7th inning. With Neshek's injury Mijares could be the closer in waiting.
4. Luke Hughes 3B Age: 24
Last year: .309 18 hr 61 rbi with AA and AAA
This year: Starting 3B in AAA
When will we see him: September 2009
Best case pro potential: Mark Reynolds
Notes: This is a telling year for Hughes. He came out of nowhere last year for a breakout year. This will tell if he was a fluke last year or a developing prospect. He will likely be a September call-up this year and will compete with Danny Valencia for 3B next year. Needs to work on defense and cut down on strikeouts.
5. Anthony Slama RHP Age: 24
Last year: 1.01 ERA, 71 IP, 110 SO, 25 Saves with High A
This year: Will be closer in AA New Britain
When will we see him: 2010
Best case pro potential: Joe Nathan
Notes: Dominated the Florida State league last year. Was named the best reliever in Class A. Could follow track similar to Mijares. Will be in AA next year and could be in the bullpen in 2010.
6. Ben Revere OF Age: 20
Last year: .379 1 hr, 43 rbi 44 sb for Low A Beloit
This year: Starting CF for High A Fort Myers
When will we see him: 2012
Best case pro potential: Willy Taveras
Notes: Had a great year last year flirting with hitting .400 before dealing with injuries. His potential is limited though has he has no power and has a limited arm. Plays very similar to Denard Span. I think he will get passed by Aaron Hicks in the organization.
7. Anthony Swarzak RHP Age: 23
Last year: 1.80 ERA, 7 starts, 45 IP, 26 SO in AAA
This year: Starting Pitcher in AAA
When will we see him: September 2009
Best case pro potential: Scott Baker
Notes: Is the first starting pitcher in the rankings which is unusual for a Twins organization. Was struggling in AA but got called up to AAA and excelled. Was a 2nd round pick in 2004. He could go either way has he lack consistency. He won't be a starter until there is an injury or opening in the rotation. Could help the bullpen in September.
8. Shooter Hunt RHP Age: 22
Last year: 3.58 ERA, 11 starts, 50 IP, 68 SO in Rookie and Low A
This year: Starting Pitcher in Low A Beloit
When will we see him: 2012
Best case pro potential: Matt Garza
Notes: Dominated Rookie ball in 4 starts with a .066 Opp batting average. Tired at the end of the year after pitching in college and minors in the same year. Struggled with control in Low A. Could follow the Matt Garza track and fly through the minors. I don't expect him to end the season in Beloit. I want him to succeed just because he has a great name. This name puts Boof to shame.
9. Wilson Ramos C Age: 21
Last year: .288 13 hr 78 rbi
This year: Starting C for AA New Britain
When will we see him: 2011
Best case pro potential: Bengie Molina
Notes: Has very good power for a catcher hitting 13 home runs in the pitcher friendly FSL. He might need to find a new position as it is currently blocked by Joe Mauer. He could replace Redmond or catch if Mauer needs to change position as he hits 30. They will try to find a way for him if he keeps producing.
10. Angel Morales OF Age: 19
Last year: .301 15 hr 28 rbi in 183 Ab in Elizabethtown.
This year: Starting OF in Low A Beloit
When will we see him: 2013
Best case pro potential: Jason Bay
Notes. Hit a home run every 12.2 Ab last year. Still very young not turning 20 until November. Has a long way to go but should be very interesting to watch him and Hicks in the OF in Beloit this year.
Honorable Mention: Chris Parmalee 1B/OF, Carlos Gutierrez RHP, Kevin Mulvey RHP, Deolis Guerra RHP
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