Your current top 5

[Skywalker76]

With just one month to post our final top 10/20 I thought it would be fun to post our current top 5 as I think there have been some changes at the top of our minor league system.

1. Rowell
Still number one mostly due to his ceiling but some of his stats are concerning and I'm a little dissapointed in his season so far.

2. Olsen
Had a rough time to chose between him and Liz for number two. But I chose Olsen because of his recent starts after his demotion to AAA. Sometimes after getting demoted from the majors to AAA a pitcher struggles but Olsen doesn't and shows he's ready when they promote him again. Btw. whenever I think about Olsen I think how lucky we were with Townsend not signing, although I also feel bad for Townsend, too, as he was clearly lowballed back in 2005.

3. Liz
I think by adjusting to AA he finally did show that he can be a pitcher as opposed to just being a thrower. To be quite honest I always thought he would falter once having to face more advanced hitting but I'm glad he did prove me wrong. 2008 in AAA with a possible september callup doesn't sound too bad, does it?

4. Erbe
This kid is so young and he has enough time to go through these growing pains. And it's better he's going through these now than later. But his status did take a hit as I always had him at the #2 spot on my lists.

5. Snyder
Here we go. After another disappointing april I thought he would finally fall out of the top 10 for good but the overall season had me wrong again. Great comeback season and welcome back Mr. Snyder.


Overall I think our minor league system is in much better shape than most people think. What I like is that our minor league stystem isn't about 5-6 players anymore but about 25-30 players who are all talented and have a shot at contributing. Whenever one of the top prospects disappoints there always seems to be one of the lower/newer prospects taking a step forward (Bascom for example).

IF we sign Weiters and Arrieta our farm system could finally become a top 15 again, maybe if some prospects perform in august even a top 12-15.

[srh523]

Olson
Liz
Rowell
Tripp
Snyder

Maybe not in that order....

[RZNJ]

1. Rowell. Still #1 despite a disappointing season. We can't forget. He's just 18 and holding his own in a full season league.

2. Olson. Finally, a top prospect who is surpassing expectations. Putting up an impressive season in AAA.

3. Reimold. What can I say? Injuries or not, I believe in this guy.

4. Hoey. Putting up a dominant season. Should be vital bullpen cog next season.

5. Liz. Nice season, but I still think he's a bullpenner in the end.


Wieters is probably right up there at #1 if he signs.

[66-70-83-??]

1. Rowell. Still #1 despite a disappointing season. We can't forget. He's just 18 and holding his own in a full season league.

2. Olson. Finally, a top prospect who is surpassing expectations. Putting up an impressive season in AAA.

3. Reimold. What can I say? Injuries or not, I believe in this guy.

4. Hoey. Putting up a dominant season. Should be vital bullpen cog next season.

5. Liz. Nice season, but I still think he's a bullpenner in the end.


Wieters is probably right up there at #1 if he signs.

I like that list and pretty much agree with it.

I still believe in Reimold too.

Although, I am starting to believe that Liz may be able to make it to the show as a "starter-er" now, as opposed to being projected as a "bullpenner". :D

[Skywalker76]

Interesting Tripp and Reimold? I have them at my top 10 but not in my top 5. I think Reimold has to have a very good august in order to crack my top 6.

[sector7g]

1. Rowell. Still #1 despite because of incredible ceiling. Has held his own this year but some concerns have arisen. Hard to say how much his injury has effected him even since coming back (see Ramon).

2. Liz. Developing into a top prospect. Absolutely dominating at AA now after a shaky adjustment period at first. Great potential, if he can cut down on the walks has a top of the rotation ceiling (where have we heard that before!).

3. Reimold. Not much he could do about the injuries, but he's not let that effect his numbers which are excellent. Needed no time whatsoever to adjust to AA, let's hope the same can be said of the Majors. Needs to walk more but simply got his pitches to hit and hit them, hopefully that's all it is. There's a place in the Balitmore outfield ready and waiting with his name all over it.

4. Olson. Hard to say how the International league strikeout leader translates to the majors. Held his own in two starts but not overpowering.....yet.

5. Snyder. Lots of guys could fit into number 5. By a hair's breadth I put Snyder. V solid comeback season and is improving in all facets of his game. Again, v high ceiling but will be interesting to see his position next year. There's no one's stats I look out for before this guy everyday.

[Skywalker76]

5. Snyder. Lots of guys could fit into number 5. By a hair's breadth I put Snyder. V solid comeback season and is improving in all facets of his game. Again, v high ceiling but will be interesting to see his position next year. There's no one's stats I look out for before this guy everyday.

Same first thing I do is always check how Snyder and Rowell did in their games. It would be really great to see these guys at OPACY one day after following their career so closely.

[srh523]

Same first thing I do is always check how Snyder and Rowell did in their games. It would be really great to see these guys at OPACY one day after following their career so closely.

It's funny that you both say that you go to Snyder and Rowell's stats everyday but dont mention Tripp who is outperforming both of them. I know he is a little bit older but I certainly think he is back on the radar screen. I would like to see him in Bowie to start next year.

[Skywalker76]

It's funny that you both say that you go to Snyder and Rowell's stats everyday but dont mention Tripp who is outperforming both of them. I know he is a little bit older but I certainly think he is back on the radar screen. I would like to see him in Bowie to start next year.

After you did put him on your top5 I immediatly took a look at his numbers and I agree that he's someone to take into consideration for the top 10. I think he's still a little under the radar because he barely gets mentioned. He wasn't even mentioned at all by BA in their prospect book.

[Mackus]

1. Weiters (assuming he signs)
2. Rowell
3. Olson
4. Reimold
5. Erbe

I still love Erbe's upside and age despite his struggles. Hoey and Liz are a pretty nice honorable mention here.

[Hutman]

1. Weiters (assuming he signs)
2. Rowell
3. Olson
4. Reimold
5. Erbe

I still love Erbe's upside and age despite his struggles. Hoey and Liz are a pretty nice honorable mention here.

I agree, Weiters immediately jumps to the top of the list "when" (i'm being optomistic) he signs. Olson is certainly in the top 3, though he has shown everything he can and deserves to be in the bigs.

[Leitch]

1. Rowell
2. Olson
3. Erbe
4. Liz
5. Reimold

*standard Wieters #1 disclaimer

[Baltimoron]

It's funny that you both say that you go to Snyder and Rowell's stats everyday but dont mention Tripp who is outperforming both of them. I know he is a little bit older but I certainly think he is back on the radar screen. I would like to see him in Bowie to start next year.

I think Tripp and Bascom are in a similar spot for me, as they both are a little older but doing pretty well. Bascom just got here, so maybe he gets a little more slack. He has only thrown 43 innings but he is throwing hard and appears healthy.

If you say Tripp where does that leave Bascom? IMO both are kinda just outside the top 5 with a outside chance to jump in, but they need to do it against higher competition I think.

[tywright]

Wieters...once he signs will be #1

Rowell
Liz
Olson
Erbe
Reimold

[iluvtheorioles]

I pretty much agree w/ most of the top 5 picks up here but I still feel as though Finan doesnt get enough recognition. He is definitely a dependable player.

My top 5, not necessarily in this order:

Liz
Finan
Olson
Hoey
Tripp

(Rowell has been a bit disappointing)

[BoysofArbutus]

I pretty much agree w/ most of the top 5 picks up here but I still feel as though Finan doesnt get enough recognition. He is definitely a dependable player.

My top 5, not necessarily in this order:

Liz
Finan
Olson
Hoey
Tripp

(Rowell has been a bit disappointing)

Finan? Really?

It's gotta go:

1) Rowell - Upside is unbelievable. He's playing way up right now and will catch up with time.
2) Olsen - He showed guts in his two pro starts and has been untouchable since returning to Norfolk
3) Liz - This guy has been silly this year. He's a little older then you'd like, but he's progressed steadily. Guthrie is a 28-year-old rookie. Liz can do it at 24.
4) Snyder - At one time he looked like an absolute bust, but this year he's gotten back on track after the injury. Maybe the move from out behind the plate did the trick.
5) Erbe - I'm going to stand by him until he quits the game. His stuff is sick, but his fastball is too straight by reports I've read. He's young enough to still make a major impact at some point. Maybe moe his release point a bit and let him focus on the fastball with another pitch and he could turn out to be the dominant closer we are looking for. I'm not going to dismiss a 20-year-old that can put it in the upper 90's consistently.

In alphabetical order by last name, the next 15 would consist of Ryan Adams, Matt Angle, Tim Bascom, Pedro Beato, Brad Bergesen, Kraig Binnick, Wally Crancer, Blake Davis, Tyler Henson, David Hernandez, James Hoey, Tyler Kolodny, Nolan Reimold, Chorye Spoone, Brandon Tripp and Chris Vinyard

[blazer]

Finan? Really?

It's gotta go:

1) Rowell - Upside is unbelievable. He's playing way up right now and will catch up with time.
2) Olsen - He showed guts in his two pro starts and has been untouchable since returning to Norfolk
3) Liz - This guy has been silly this year. He's a little older then you'd like, but he's progressed steadily. Guthrie is a 28-year-old rookie. Liz can do it at 24.
4) Snyder - At one time he looked like an absolute bust, but this year he's gotten back on track after the injury. Maybe the move from out behind the plate did the trick.
5) Erbe - I'm going to stand by him until he quits the game. His stuff is sick, but his fastball is too straight by reports I've read. He's young enough to still make a major impact at some point. Maybe moe his release point a bit and let him focus on the fastball with another pitch and he could turn out to be the dominant closer we are looking for. I'm not going to dismiss a 20-year-old that can put it in the upper 90's consistently.

In alphabetical order by last name, the next 15 would consist of Ryan Adams, Matt Angle, Tim Bascom, Pedro Beato, Brad Bergesen, Kraig Binnick, Wally Crancer, Blake Davis, Tyler Henson, David Hernandez, James Hoey, Tyler Kolodny, Nolan Reimold, Chorye Spoone, Brandon Tripp and Chris Vinyard

My list is similar:

1. Rowell
2. Olson
3. Liz
4. Erbe
5. Beato

Replacing Binnick, Crancer and Kolodny in the top 20 with Britton, McCrory, Pope.

[Baltimoron]

5) Erbe - I'm going to stand by him until he quits the game. His stuff is sick, but his fastball is too straight by reports I've read. He's young enough to still make a major impact at some point. Maybe moe his release point a bit and let him focus on the fastball with another pitch and he could turn out to be the dominant closer we are looking for. I'm not going to dismiss a 20-year-old that can put it in the upper 90's consistently.


Than its even better he is 19 until Christmas. :)

[Sports Guy]

1. Rowell
2. Olson
3. Erbe
4. Liz
5. Reimold

*standard Wieters #1 disclaimer

This would be my list as well.

[Jammer7]

I'm just going to go ahead and be an optimist and include Wieters and Arrieta.

1. Matt Wieters - he'll be more polished than Rowell right away and produce more in the short term.
2. Billy Rowell - will eventually be the biggest producer of the group in the long term
3. Garrett Olson - he's ready to be a #3 starter now, getting the most out of his ability
4. Radhames Liz - really progressing as a starter with nasty stuff, can he really stay a starter?
5. Nolan Reimold - I too believe in this guy, starting LF by July '08? Can he stay healthy?

Hard to stop at just five...The next 15?
6. Jim Hoey - outstanding season, nasty stuff make him a solid set-up option in '08
7. Brandon Erbe - struggles this year have him slipping just a bit, but he'll be back in top 3 by end of '08
8. Brandon Tripp - having a solid breakout season, but not ready to put him in top 5 just yet
9. Brad Bergesen - recent minor struggles aside, he's on the rise rapidly
10. Brandon Snyder - he's back on track, probably back in top 5 mid '08 depending what position he plays
11. Chorye Spoone - command still needs to improve, but he's making definite strides
12. Bob McCrory - he's been solid, occasionally dominant, for the most part...another guy who has to be considered for BP in '08 if he can improve command (35 K/25 BB in 35 IP)
13. Chris Vinyard - has not been mashing as much recently, but you have to like his power potential and production
14. Tim Bascom - gotta like what we see so far from my fellow UCF alum! I may have him a little low right now.
15. Tyler Kolodny - only knock may be the 11 errors at 3B, but you have to love the value of this pick so far. The kid mashes!
16. Jake Arrieta - if he works out the kinks in his delivery he moves up quickly with power stuff
17. Miguel Abreu - not much plate discipline, but the bat has juice and a solid overall prospect
18. Dave Hernandez - slipped a little (tiring?), but still has shown he can be dominant power pitcher
19. Pedro Beato - slipped quite a bit in rankings, but potential is there to be top 5 again end of '08
20. Tyler Henson - very toolsy, hitting for avg. and some power, so's and errors are a little high right now but I really like this kid's upside. He was my sleeper pick in mid June and I can finally say I got one right for a change.:D

Just outside the top 20 (not in any order): Zach Britton, Ryan Adams, Keiron Pope, Blake Davis, Matt Angle, Luis Hernandez, James Johnson, Hank Williamson, Paco Figueroa, and Chad Thall.

Early Potential: Wally Crancer, Jordan Wolf, Joe Mahoney, Franklin Gonzalez, Nick Ray, Scott Mueller, Shane Mathews, Kraig Binick, Justin Moore, Paul Chmiel, Tyrone Hambly (will he ever get to play?), Malcolm Crowley, Jacob Julius, Brian Parker, John Marriotti, Kyle Touchatt, Elvin Polanco, Rodolfo Cardona, Luis Noel, Jake Smith, Stephen Procner and Dan Heller.

Still some hope for: Ryan Keefer, Brian Finch, Freddy Deza, Mark Fleisher, Ryan Finan, Arturo Rivas, Jason Berken, Dan Figueroa, Kyle Schmidt, Jim Miller, Pedro Florimon (has there been a bigger disappointment?), Brent Allar, Jeff Moore, Wilfredo Perez, Brett Bordes, Luis Lebron, Jed Stephen, Zach Jevne and Ryan Stadanlick.

Fading quickly: Val Majewski, Jeff Fiorentino, Beau Hale, Sean Tracey, Bryan Bass, Brandon Sing, Dave Haehnel, Rommie Lewis, Reid Hamblet, Blake Owen and Josh Tamba.

Okay, so I went a little far...sorry, I was bored. :D Overall, I really like the growth of the system. Many at the top have struggled, but the potential is outstanding. We certainly can see a lot more depth in mid-level prospects than I can ever remember.

[RZNJ]

Jammer, I always enjoy your input on this side of the board. Just a couple of nitpicks. I'm surprised you have Beato & Henson so low, particularly Henson. If anyone has had a breakout season, it's this guy and Tripp. In a pitcher's park, he's showing a little power/speed potential at SS. He's only 19 and was considered the best, or one of the best pure athletes that we drafted last year. I liked Vinyard last year but he's disappointed this year. No way I can see ranking Vinyard at 13 and Henson at 19. I'd reverse them and have Henson knocking on the door of the top 10. Let's also remember that Beato is just 20, and although he's been a bit disappointing, I'd have to say that he's still more of a prospect than the more polished but less talented (from what I've read) Brad Bergesen. For my money, I like Spoone better than almost any of the A ball pitchers, based on age, physique, and stuff. The command is coming slowly but surely.

[davearm]

1- Olson
2- Liz
3- Hoey
4- Rowell
5- Reimold

Ceiling aside, #1 pick aside, and age aside, I have a hard time putting a guy that's only OK in A-ball ahead of three guys that have been very good in the upper minors and are more certain to amount to something in MLB (not to mention do it much sooner).

[RZNJ]

1- Olson
2- Liz
3- Hoey
4- Rowell
5- Reimold

Ceiling aside, #1 pick aside, and age aside, I have a hard time putting a guy that's only OK in A-ball ahead of three guys that have been very good in the upper minors and are more certain to amount to something in MLB (not to mention do it much sooner).

But many publications put guys who have never even played a day of professional baseball as #1 prospects or top tens ahead of guys who are in AAA. You yourself, have done this sort of thing. What's the difference here?

[Sports Guy]

Ceiling and age aside? How can you just poo poo those things?

Isn't that basically how most prospect lists are done?

:confused: :confused:

[davearm]

Ceiling and age aside? How can you just poo poo those things?

Isn't that basically how most prospect lists are done?

:confused: :confused:
I'm not poo pooing anything.

I'm saying the guys I put ahead of him are having enough sustained success at much higher levels, and showing high enough probabilities of having bigleague careers, to outweigh Rowell's advantages in age and ceiling.

It's basic risk/reward theory. Rowell's reward element has stayed the same but his risk element has gone up. These three other guys have bumped up their reward element a bit, while also lowering their risk element. Put it all together and the final list needs to be reshuffled from what it was preseason.

[Skywalker76]

I'm not poo pooing anything.

I'm saying the guys I put ahead of him are having enough sustained success at much higher levels, and showing high enough probabilities of having bigleague careers, to outweigh Rowell's advantages in age and ceiling.

It's basic risk/reward theory. Rowell's reward element has stayed the same but his risk element has gone up. These three other guys have bumped up their reward element a bit, while also lowering their risk element. Put it all together and the final list needs to be reshuffled from what it was preseason.

I think it has to be a mix between stats and ceiling. This is why Olsen is high on pretty much everybody's list. His ceiling is "just" a 3rd starter but his stats at AAA are outstanding.

[orioole28]

I'm just going to go ahead and be an optimist and include Wieters and Arrieta.

1. Matt Wieters - he'll be more polished than Rowell right away and produce more in the short term.
2. Billy Rowell - will eventually be the biggest producer of the group in the long term
3. Garrett Olson - he's ready to be a #3 starter now, getting the most out of his ability
4. Radhames Liz - really progressing as a starter with nasty stuff, can he really stay a starter?
5. Nolan Reimold - I too believe in this guy, starting LF by July '08? Can he stay healthy?

Hard to stop at just five...The next 15?
6. Jim Hoey - outstanding season, nasty stuff make him a solid set-up option in '08
7. Brandon Erbe - struggles this year have him slipping just a bit, but he'll be back in top 3 by end of '08
8. Brandon Tripp - having a solid breakout season, but not ready to put him in top 5 just yet
9. Brad Bergesen - recent minor struggles aside, he's on the rise rapidly
10. Brandon Snyder - he's back on track, probably back in top 5 mid '08 depending what position he plays
11. Chorye Spoone - command still needs to improve, but he's making definite strides
12. Bob McCrory - he's been solid, occasionally dominant, for the most part...another guy who has to be considered for BP in '08 if he can improve command (35 K/25 BB in 35 IP)
13. Chris Vinyard - has not been mashing as much recently, but you have to like his power potential and production
14. Tim Bascom - gotta like what we see so far from my fellow UCF alum! I may have him a little low right now.
15. Tyler Kolodny - only knock may be the 11 errors at 3B, but you have to love the value of this pick so far. The kid mashes!
16. Jake Arrieta - if he works out the kinks in his delivery he moves up quickly with power stuff
17. Miguel Abreu - not much plate discipline, but the bat has juice and a solid overall prospect
18. Dave Hernandez - slipped a little (tiring?), but still has shown he can be dominant power pitcher
19. Pedro Beato - slipped quite a bit in rankings, but potential is there to be top 5 again end of '08
20. Tyler Henson - very toolsy, hitting for avg. and some power, so's and errors are a little high right now but I really like this kid's upside. He was my sleeper pick in mid June and I can finally say I got one right for a change.:D

Just outside the top 20 (not in any order): Zach Britton, Ryan Adams, Keiron Pope, Blake Davis, Matt Angle, Luis Hernandez, James Johnson, Hank Williamson, Paco Figueroa, and Chad Thall.

Early Potential: Wally Crancer, Jordan Wolf, Joe Mahoney, Franklin Gonzalez, Nick Ray, Scott Mueller, Shane Mathews, Kraig Binick, Justin Moore, Paul Chmiel, Tyrone Hambly (will he ever get to play?), Malcolm Crowley, Jacob Julius, Brian Parker, John Marriotti, Kyle Touchatt, Elvin Polanco, Rodolfo Cardona, Luis Noel, Jake Smith, Stephen Procner and Dan Heller.

Still some hope for: Ryan Keefer, Brian Finch, Freddy Deza, Mark Fleisher, Ryan Finan, Arturo Rivas, Jason Berken, Dan Figueroa, Kyle Schmidt, Jim Miller, Pedro Florimon (has there been a bigger disappointment?), Brent Allar, Jeff Moore, Wilfredo Perez, Brett Bordes, Luis Lebron, Jed Stephen, Zach Jevne and Ryan Stadanlick.

Fading quickly: Val Majewski, Jeff Fiorentino, Beau Hale, Sean Tracey, Bryan Bass, Brandon Sing, Dave Haehnel, Rommie Lewis, Reid Hamblet, Blake Owen and Josh Tamba.

Okay, so I went a little far...sorry, I was bored. :D Overall, I really like the growth of the system. Many at the top have struggled, but the potential is outstanding. We certainly can see a lot more depth in mid-level prospects than I can ever remember.

I see you put in alot of time into it. So I will give a shot.

1)Olson -I pretty much think he should already be pitching for the Orioles!!
2)Liz -Starting to really put it together
3)Rowell -I think he has the best upside of all our hitters
4)Reimold-If he can just stay healthy, who knows how good he can be.
5)Hoey- Getting closer to the big show!!

And now my next 10:

6)Erbe -Even though he has had a rough 2007, age is a factor
7)Synder -He has finally starting to show his potential
8)Spoone -Having a great year in Frederick, opposing hitter are hitting .198
9)Tripp -Having a solid season
10)McCrory -Had a great season in Freserick and continued on with Bowie
11)Beato -Having a good season but not dominating
12)Vineyard -Power potential is there, just needs to be more consistent
13)Bascom -Having a great start at Delmarva
14)Hernandez -If we can get him to pitch like he did in April! Misses bats
though. Lead the Carolinas with 123 k's
15)Bergesen - Was dominating @ SAL but has struggle in Frederick.
His GO/AO is just outstanding 2.42

I left off Weiters and Arrieta because they are not offically in the Orioles organization. I also left off Tyler Kolodny because of the league in competing in. It's a wait and see. Abreu, Finan, and Hensen would be in my Top 20

[Jammer7]

Jammer, I always enjoy your input on this side of the board. Just a couple of nitpicks. I'm surprised you have Beato & Henson so low, particularly Henson. If anyone has had a breakout season, it's this guy and Tripp. In a pitcher's park, he's showing a little power/speed potential at SS. He's only 19 and was considered the best, or one of the best pure athletes that we drafted last year. I liked Vinyard last year but he's disappointed this year. No way I can see ranking Vinyard at 13 and Henson at 19. I'd reverse them and have Henson knocking on the door of the top 10. Let's also remember that Beato is just 20, and although he's been a bit disappointing, I'd have to say that he's still more of a prospect than the more polished but less talented (from what I've read) Brad Bergesen. For my money, I like Spoone better than almost any of the A ball pitchers, based on age, physique, and stuff. The command is coming slowly but surely.

RZ, I don't disagree on Henson. In retrospect, I probably did rank him a little low. I like the kid a lot and if he continues I'll rank him a little closer to the top 10 at the end of the season. Right now, with Florimon and Adams' current struggles in mind, I was a little conservative about putting too much weight into six weeks of SS-A ball. Erbe has shown in the past he has the ability to dominate until he tires later in the season. Assuming he keeps progressing and gaining stamina in a natural progression, I like his upside/tools better than Spoone. For me, Spoone still has to show more consistent command to prove he profiles more than a long relief/back of the rotation starter. Bergesen showed very good command the first half at Delmarva and I think he'll straighten out. Vinyard may possibly move down some, but he's just as likely to get hot again with some adjustments.

Overall, I tend to give more weight to track record and tools than shorter term results. There's several guys like Beato, Adams, Henson, Erbe, Bergesen, Spoone, etc.. that could easily move up with a hot month of August. At the moment, there really isn't a lot of separation after Hoey, but the system is stronger from #7-30 than I have ever seen.

[Say O!]

Much appreciation for the analysis Jammer!

[Ruzious]

I'm betting on Henson, Angle, and Kolodny moving up on everyone's lists.

[blazer]

I'm betting on Henson, Angle, and Kolodny moving up on everyone's lists.

These are the three players that I will be keeping a close eye on next year to have a breakout season. I wouldn't be surprised to see both Angle and Henson start the year in Delmarva, but move up mid-season to Fredrick. Not quite sure where Kolodny will play...Aberdeen seems the most likely, but I'd prefer to challenge him in Delmarva.

[BoysofArbutus]

I'd like to see Angle in Frederick to start the year because of his age. Henson has time to move through more slowly, but we need to find out if Angle can hit on a higher level more quickly.

Kolodny should go to Delmarva for the full season. I'd like to see him and Binnick both in Delmarva to see if they can play at that level.

[JohnD]

Interesting stuff guys. Always fun to read the opinions of those who put time and effort into studying up on this stuff.

[Moose Milligan]

Interesting stuff guys. Always fun to read the opinions of those who put time and effort into studying up on this stuff.

I agree, the minor league board has me pretty pumped to see what it can produce.

Where's Mahoney fit in here? I know we just drafted him but I was impressed by what I read about him on draft day....seems like a big first baseman with good power potential.

How's he doing this year?

With Bascom and hopefully Arrieta and Wieters, this could be a really good minor league system, the best we've seen in years.

[JohnD]

Mahoney has had his struggles at Aberdeen, like most power hitters seem to. Off the top of my head and with very little forethought, he may crack the top 25, but not by much.

Also off the top of my head Bascom might sneak into the top 10, or may just be outside of it. He and a few others are probably in the running for some of the final spots.

[Jammer7]

I'd like to see Angle in Frederick to start the year because of his age. Henson has time to move through more slowly, but we need to find out if Angle can hit on a higher level more quickly.

Kolodny should go to Delmarva for the full season. I'd like to see him and Binnick both in Delmarva to see if they can play at that level.

I'm real curious what Kolodny could do in Delamrva too. The only thing is where does Rowell play next year? They both play 3B and I'm not ready to graduate Rowell from Delmarva. It might be crowded at the hot corner as I'd like to see if Snyder can play 3B in Frederick next season, and I hope they will forget about Brandon playing behind the dish. First base should be manned too with Vinyard at Frederick and Mahoney, Martinez and Chmiel at Delmarva. You have to figure Jed Stephen (SS/3B), Tyrone Hambly and Matt Tucker in there somewhere as well. It's a nice problem to have. Maybe send Rowell back to Delmarva and move him up to Frederick in July and have Kolodny stay in EST to work on his fielding. Maybe start Kolodny to Aberdeen.

I agree on Henson, Angle and Binick.

[JohnD]

Kolodny would be really young to make a full season squad. It's not to say he can't or won't, but he'd probably need to have an incredible spring to bypass both Bluefield and Aberdeen, which might be the more realistic expectation for next year. Remember, the NY-Penn League is usually filled with college players who would still be older than him.

[Flosman]

This thread has raised a question about Rowell. Even though he has not put together a huge season hasn't he done enough to start in Fredrick next season?

[Chollie Eckman]

This thread has raised a question about Rowell. Even though he has not put together a huge season hasn't he done enough to start in Fredrick next season?
Billy Rowell 3B 62 235 33 64 13 2 6 40 99 26 73 3 2 .348 .421 .272 .770

What do you think? He does strike out a lot(73 in 62 games). He'll turn 19 in the off season. Either way. Both he and Kolodny play the same position. There might be a logjam at 3B soon.

[JohnD]

As Tony has mentioned numerous times, anyone who wants to get excited about a HS 3B tearing up the GCL should go back and look at the numbers Bryan Bass put up there.

[RZNJ]

As Tony has mentioned numerous times, anyone who wants to get excited about a HS 3B tearing up the GCL should go back and look at the numbers Bryan Bass put up there.

True. Bryan Bass was also a 19 yo HS draftee who played his first season at the GCL and a little at Bluefield. The O's did promote him to Delmarva the next season and the rest is history. I wouldn't be surprised if Kolodny made the Delmarva roster next spring, but I'd be more shocked if Rowell didn't start the season at Frederick.

[blazer]

True. Bryan Bass was also a 19 yo HS draftee who played his first season at the GCL and a little at Bluefield. The O's did promote him to Delmarva the next season and the rest is history. I wouldn't be surprised if Kolodny made the Delmarva roster next spring, but I'd be more shocked if Rowell didn't start the season at Frederick.

Exactly. Rowell should be in Fredrick next season. He may not move through two levels a season right now, but he shouldn't be held back either. Thus, 3B would be open in Delmarva, giving Kolodny an opening. Stephen may be the more likely starter though.

[Chollie Eckman]

Exactly. Rowell should be in Fredrick next season. He may not move through two levels a season right now, but he shouldn't be held back either. Thus, 3B would be open in Delmarva, giving Kolodny an opening. Stephen may be the more likely starter though.

Or Matt Tucker.

[Jammer7]

As Tony has mentioned numerous times, anyone who wants to get excited about a HS 3B tearing up the GCL should go back and look at the numbers Bryan Bass put up there.

John, I'm with you on this. No need to rush the kid, although I am curious what he could do around August with Delmarva. If he has a tremendous spring or not, Aberdeen would be where I'd start him next year. At the least he needs work on his defense.

No need to rush Rowell either. He needs to make more consistent contact and build his confidence. Snyder will hopefully be the 3B in Frederick next season. An entire season at those places for both Snyder and Rowell would not be a set-back.

[mark_beckens]

Or Matt Tucker.

Jediadiah Stephens was promoted to Frederick

[phattybeers]

Jediadiah Stephens was promoted to Frederick

When did this happen...After tonight's game against Vermont?

[justD]

Yes, planned before the game but he played tonight in Aberdeen (doubled and scored a run).

I had the pleasure of seeing the game tonight, and sure do love what Matt Angle brings to the game...

[Chollie Eckman]

Jediadiah Stephens was promoted to Frederick
Tucker was promoted to Aberdeen.

[Fairfax Bird]

I'll go top 10 with the assumption that Matt Weiters signs:

1. Weiters
2. Rowell
3. Olson
4. Liz
5. Hoey
6. Reimold
7. Snyder
8. Erbe
9. Spoone
10. Bascom

[NCRaven]

I'll agree with Wieters as #1, although I freely admit it's based solely on the reports that I've read since the draft.

1. Wieters
2. Olson
3. Snyder
4. Penn
5. Rowell
6. Liz
7. Reimold
8. Hoey
9. Erbe
10. Beato

Although, I think you can throw a blanket over Beato, Bascom, and Spoonye. And, it kills me that I can't think of one other hitter that I would even consider for the top 10. I might even think of 5 other pitchers before I come to another hitter. Big drop off to Tripp, Davis and Paco Figureroa.

[Ruzious]

I had the pleasure of seeing the game tonight, and sure do love what Matt Angle brings to the game...
Yeah, my gut feeling on Angle - he might not have a huge ceiling, but he's much more likely to reach his ceiling than the other prospects. A scrapper with some talent = a future major leaguer.

[Jenius]

And, it kills me that I can't think of one other hitter that I would even consider for the top 10. I might even think of 5 other pitchers before I come to another hitter. Big drop off to Tripp, Davis and Paco Figureroa.
You're forgetting or overlooking a few Aberdeen players:

Henson (clearly above all 3 hitters you mentioned, IMO, based on age and level)
Mahoney (may enter the picture more if he continues his current hot streak)
Angle (awesome OB ability and speed trump lack of power for now)

Also, there are some "early potential" guys down at the rookie levels who could pan out...hopefully at least 1-2 of the following can push to prospect status eventually:

Binick
Black
Bonevacia
Cardona
Chmiel
Crowley
Kolodny
L. Lopez
Polanco
Pope


So, while we still lack solid hitting prospects at the higher levels, it's not THAT bad.

[blazer]

I'll agree with Wieters as #1, although I freely admit it's based solely on the reports that I've read since the draft.

1. Wieters
2. Olson
3. Snyder
4. Penn
5. Rowell
6. Liz
7. Reimold
8. Hoey
9. Erbe
10. Beato

Although, I think you can throw a blanket over Beato, Bascom, and Spoonye. And, it kills me that I can't think of one other hitter that I would even consider for the top 10. I might even think of 5 other pitchers before I come to another hitter. Big drop off to Tripp, Davis and Paco Figureroa.

Henson should certainly at least be considered for the top 10; I've got him in a group with Beato, Spoone, Bascom and Bergesen fighting for the last couple spots. He has made a bunch of errors at SS, but he has the range and arm to play there in the ML. He is hitting for a solid average, while displaying good power, at 19 years old in Aberdeen. He didn't have a chance to focus on baseball in HS due to being a 3-sport athlete, so he is just now being able to use the entire offseason to continue his development. I expect a similar type of leap in production next season from Henson, especially in the field.

[Ruzious]

Does anyone still not have Riemold in their top 5?

[Three Run Homer]

1. Weiters
2. Rowell
3. Olson
4. Reimold
5. Liz
6. Snyder
7. Hoey
8. Erbe, I guess
9. Spoone
10. Henson (would rank higher if I thought he could handle SS)

Close to the top 10: Beato, Bascom, Mahoney, Bergesen

One guy who doesn't look like a prospect to me is Matt Angle. I love the OBP and the steals, and I'm sure he helps Aberdeen win ballgames, but guys who can't slug .400 usually don't develop into major league players. He reminds me of Jackie Rexrode or Richard Paz.

[Tony-OH]

One guy who doesn't look like a prospect to me is Matt Angle. I love the OBP and the steals, and I'm sure he helps Aberdeen win ballgames, but guys who can't slug .400 usually don't develop into major league players. He reminds me of Jackie Rexrode or Richard Paz.

As a 21-years old, Brian Roberts slugged .323 in 47 games with Delmarva. Chone Figgins sluuged under .400 every season in the minors until he was 24 years old in the PCL. Nick Punto slugged .319 at 20-years old in the NY-Penn League. Victor Martinez was 20-years old when he slugged .366 in 64 NY-Penn League games.

Having speed, plate discipline and good defensive skills is a great start to any baseball skill set.

[Pedro Cerrano]

1. Wieters
2. Erbe
3. Rowell
4. Reimold
5. Olson

[Fairfax Bird]

As a 21-years old, Brian Roberts slugged .323 in 47 games with Delmarva. Chone Figgins sluuged under .400 every season in the minors until he was 24 years old in the PCL. Nick Punto slugged .319 at 20-years old in the NY-Penn League. Victor Martinez was 20-years old when he slugged .366 in 64 NY-Penn League games.

Having speed, plate discipline and good defensive skills is a great start to any baseball skill set.


It has been said before but Angle has the look of Reggie Willits to me. I also agree with the idea that Angle will almost certainly hit his ceiling where other prospects won't.