The Indians maintained a piece of their catching depth Tuesday by re-signing Guillermo Quiroz to a Minor League contract with a non-roster invitation to Spring Training.
Quiroz, who turns 35 later this month, spent the season with Triple-A Columbus, catching in 55 games and playing 12 more at first base. He hit .264 (72-for-273) in 75 games, slugging 11 home runs with 38 RBIs while posting a .761 OPS before going 5-for-11 with a double and a homer in the International League postseason.
Quiroz has appeared in 148 Major League games, providing a level of experience that makes him valuable to clubs as an insurance policy at catcher. That includes the Indians, who already have an abundance of options. Roberto Perez's success down the stretch was a lifeline for the injury-plagued Indians once Yan Gomes was injured. Chris Gimenez is also under team control after catching in 59 games for the Indians this year.
If this guy is in the fold, we hardly need to hold a 40 man spot for Giminez.
Re: Minor Matters
6287Arizona League comes to its season end
CLE AFL Allen, Greg RF 5 0 0 0 .269 [weak finish]
CLE AFL Haase, Eric C 4 0 0 0 .278
CLE AFL Zimmer, Bradley CF 3 2 2 2 .257 2 2B (7), BB (19) [solid finish]
CLE DL Mejia, Francisco C 3 0 1 0 .227
CLE DL Rodriguez, Ronny 3B 3 1 2 0 .333 3B(1)
CLE VL Aguilar, Jesus PH-1B 2 1 1 1 .289 2B (2), 2 BB (11)
CLE VL Medina, Yhoxian PR-SS 0 1 0 0 .304
CLE VL Mendoza, Yonathan PH 1 0 0 0 .250
CLE VL Urshela, Giovanny 3B 4 2 3 4 .367 2 2B (11), HR (3) [what's his role in 2017?]
CLE VL Morales, Alexander 1 0 0 0 0 1 2.84
CLE AFL Allen, Greg RF 5 0 0 0 .269 [weak finish]
CLE AFL Haase, Eric C 4 0 0 0 .278
CLE AFL Zimmer, Bradley CF 3 2 2 2 .257 2 2B (7), BB (19) [solid finish]
CLE DL Mejia, Francisco C 3 0 1 0 .227
CLE DL Rodriguez, Ronny 3B 3 1 2 0 .333 3B(1)
CLE VL Aguilar, Jesus PH-1B 2 1 1 1 .289 2B (2), 2 BB (11)
CLE VL Medina, Yhoxian PR-SS 0 1 0 0 .304
CLE VL Mendoza, Yonathan PH 1 0 0 0 .250
CLE VL Urshela, Giovanny 3B 4 2 3 4 .367 2 2B (11), HR (3) [what's his role in 2017?]
CLE VL Morales, Alexander 1 0 0 0 0 1 2.84
Re: Minor Matters
62881. Apparently I counted wrong, there were 38 on the roster.
2. Giminez was DFA'd. Martinez was not.
3. Mejia was added.
4. Santander was not nor was NellieRod nor Lugo nor any of the AAA RH relievers.
5. But 2 lefties were picked up on waivers, and lefties in the pen certainly are an area of need.
claiming left-handed pitchers Edwin Escobar and Tim Cooney off waivers.
A. Escobar spent most of the season in the D-backs' system after Arizona claimed him off waivers from Boston in April. The 24-year-old pitched in 25 games for the D-backs, posting a 1-2 record with a 7.23 ERA in 23 2/3 innings while walking 12 and striking out 17. He also went 6-3 with a 4.25 ERA in 16 starts for Triple-A Reno.
B. Cooney, who will turn 26 on Dec. 19, missed the 2016 season following left shoulder surgery. He made six starts for the Cardinals in 2015, going 1-0 with a 3.16 ERA. He walked 10 and struck out 29. He also posted a 6-4 record and 2.74 ERA in 14 starts for Triple-A Memphis in 2015.
2. Giminez was DFA'd. Martinez was not.
3. Mejia was added.
4. Santander was not nor was NellieRod nor Lugo nor any of the AAA RH relievers.
5. But 2 lefties were picked up on waivers, and lefties in the pen certainly are an area of need.
claiming left-handed pitchers Edwin Escobar and Tim Cooney off waivers.
A. Escobar spent most of the season in the D-backs' system after Arizona claimed him off waivers from Boston in April. The 24-year-old pitched in 25 games for the D-backs, posting a 1-2 record with a 7.23 ERA in 23 2/3 innings while walking 12 and striking out 17. He also went 6-3 with a 4.25 ERA in 16 starts for Triple-A Reno.
B. Cooney, who will turn 26 on Dec. 19, missed the 2016 season following left shoulder surgery. He made six starts for the Cardinals in 2015, going 1-0 with a 3.16 ERA. He walked 10 and struck out 29. He also posted a 6-4 record and 2.74 ERA in 14 starts for Triple-A Memphis in 2015.
Re: Minor Matters
6289Escobar: http://www.baseball-reference.com/playe ... ed02.shtml
Cooney: http://www.baseball-reference.com/playe ... ti01.shtml
Good hitter, his major league slash line is 300/300/400/700
Almost exclusively a starter in his minor league and major league career.
Cooney: http://www.baseball-reference.com/playe ... ti01.shtml
Good hitter, his major league slash line is 300/300/400/700
Almost exclusively a starter in his minor league and major league career.
Re: Minor Matters
6290Tim Cooney was the Cardinals No. 2 prospect heading into the 2016 season. He had shoulder injury and surgery in July so his availability is uncertain in spring 2017. If he's healthy he's a pretty cheap pickup, not even for the cost of the Rule 5 draft. He's a good sized kid so perhaps he's not another of those little finesse lefties?
Best talent we have left exposed is Santander who had an excellent year at the plate in Lynchburg and could have been league MVP if not for Bradley. I have to hope that with no AA experience teams wouldn't want to waste a roster spot for him before he gets shipped back to the minors in 2018 with a return to majors date of 2020. But some bottom of the barrel offense could take the chance. I note that the Cardinals before releasing Cooney promoted 3 kids who haven't played above Class A onto to their roster.
And I would have preferred to let Michael Martinez go free; Tito likes him but there are plenty of 25th men out there to pick up in the minor league free agent market. I'd think Ronny Rodriguez is a likely Rule 5 pick, since he has AAA experience so he's as ready as he's ever going to be and combines a decent bat [but no walks] with defensive versatility.
Best talent we have left exposed is Santander who had an excellent year at the plate in Lynchburg and could have been league MVP if not for Bradley. I have to hope that with no AA experience teams wouldn't want to waste a roster spot for him before he gets shipped back to the minors in 2018 with a return to majors date of 2020. But some bottom of the barrel offense could take the chance. I note that the Cardinals before releasing Cooney promoted 3 kids who haven't played above Class A onto to their roster.
And I would have preferred to let Michael Martinez go free; Tito likes him but there are plenty of 25th men out there to pick up in the minor league free agent market. I'd think Ronny Rodriguez is a likely Rule 5 pick, since he has AAA experience so he's as ready as he's ever going to be and combines a decent bat [but no walks] with defensive versatility.
Re: Minor Matters
6291Friday in the Caribbean
CLE DL Rodriguez, Ronny 1B-SS 5 0 1 2 .324
CLE VL Urshela, Giovanny 3B 5 0 1 1 .358
CLE DL Rodriguez, Ronny 1B-SS 5 0 1 2 .324
CLE VL Urshela, Giovanny 3B 5 0 1 1 .358
Re: Minor Matters
6292Cleveland Indians (40): Added C Francisco Mejia, LHP Tim Cooney and LHP Edwin Escobar. Outrighted C Chris Gimenez
The Indians weren’t about to let their No. 1 prospect get away, adding Mejia as the final player to their 40-man roster. Mejia strung together a 50-game hit streak across low Class A and high Class A this summer and ranks as one of the game’s top 100 prospects. The Indians kept their other additions to major league waiver claims, grabbing a pair of mid-20s lefthanders who can help their pitching staff immediately. Cooney, 25, missed all of 2016 after undergoing shoulder surgery but was a top prospect who had a 3.16 ERA over five starts in his major league debut in 2015. Escobar, 24, made 25 appearances for the Diamondbacks last season but posted an ugly 7.23 ERA. Gimenez was outrighted after he hit .216 in 66 games for the Indians last season.
The Indians weren’t about to let their No. 1 prospect get away, adding Mejia as the final player to their 40-man roster. Mejia strung together a 50-game hit streak across low Class A and high Class A this summer and ranks as one of the game’s top 100 prospects. The Indians kept their other additions to major league waiver claims, grabbing a pair of mid-20s lefthanders who can help their pitching staff immediately. Cooney, 25, missed all of 2016 after undergoing shoulder surgery but was a top prospect who had a 3.16 ERA over five starts in his major league debut in 2015. Escobar, 24, made 25 appearances for the Diamondbacks last season but posted an ugly 7.23 ERA. Gimenez was outrighted after he hit .216 in 66 games for the Indians last season.
Re: Minor Matters
6293Final AFL Hot Sheet.
No. 2 for the Week:
2. Bradley Zimmer, of, Indians
Team: Mesa
Age: 23
Why He’s Here: .333/.444/.867 (5-for-15), 5 R, 2 2B, 2 HR, 7 RBIs, 3 BB, 5 SO
The Scoop: Teams covet players who combine power and speed, and Zimmer has both in spades. He finished the AFL season with eight stolen bases and four home runs, both of which landed him among the league leaders. That combination, plus the ability to stick in center field, places him among Cleveland’s elite prospects. (JN)
[Ok, so we'll live with the strikeouts. I'm still worried about his hitting against lefties.]
No. 2 for the Week:
2. Bradley Zimmer, of, Indians
Team: Mesa
Age: 23
Why He’s Here: .333/.444/.867 (5-for-15), 5 R, 2 2B, 2 HR, 7 RBIs, 3 BB, 5 SO
The Scoop: Teams covet players who combine power and speed, and Zimmer has both in spades. He finished the AFL season with eight stolen bases and four home runs, both of which landed him among the league leaders. That combination, plus the ability to stick in center field, places him among Cleveland’s elite prospects. (JN)
[Ok, so we'll live with the strikeouts. I'm still worried about his hitting against lefties.]
Re: Minor Matters
6294Scouting report Tim Cooney before he got hurt
He continued to improve and get better. He was able to recognize what he needed to continue to work on in being able to execute more consistently. Even when he came back down into Memphis, he was focused on working on things, but it was unfortunate the appendectomy took place the end of the year that suddenly ended his season. I felt really good about what he was able to do and how he was able to do it."
Known for pitchability and an ability to make adjustments on the fly, Cooney utilized that ability and finished Double-A Springfield in his first full season in 2014 before making his MLB debut the following year. He locates a solid 89-92 mph fastball with sink and late life to both sides of the plate. He is the classic version of a left-hander who pitches inside with purpose and uses a high-quality changeup to generate swings and misses.
Cooney also mixes in a low-80s slider, hard cutter, and mid-70s curveball to give him five effective pitches that will help him turn over lineups three times or more in order to go deep into games. However, a command-oriented approach will be vital for him to succeed without pure gas. He is a proven performer with repeatable mechanics and profiles as a very dependable back-end starter. Though he is not very deceptive and can fall into a tendency to allow a high-rate of fly balls and projects to see a tick downwards in his strikeouts at the major-league level.
He continued to improve and get better. He was able to recognize what he needed to continue to work on in being able to execute more consistently. Even when he came back down into Memphis, he was focused on working on things, but it was unfortunate the appendectomy took place the end of the year that suddenly ended his season. I felt really good about what he was able to do and how he was able to do it."
Known for pitchability and an ability to make adjustments on the fly, Cooney utilized that ability and finished Double-A Springfield in his first full season in 2014 before making his MLB debut the following year. He locates a solid 89-92 mph fastball with sink and late life to both sides of the plate. He is the classic version of a left-hander who pitches inside with purpose and uses a high-quality changeup to generate swings and misses.
Cooney also mixes in a low-80s slider, hard cutter, and mid-70s curveball to give him five effective pitches that will help him turn over lineups three times or more in order to go deep into games. However, a command-oriented approach will be vital for him to succeed without pure gas. He is a proven performer with repeatable mechanics and profiles as a very dependable back-end starter. Though he is not very deceptive and can fall into a tendency to allow a high-rate of fly balls and projects to see a tick downwards in his strikeouts at the major-league level.
Re: Minor Matters
6295Reply Edwin Escobar http://www.soxprospects.com/players/escobar-edwin.htm
Claimed off waivers by Arizona (April 2016)
Physical Description: Medium build, strong frame. Physically mature.
Mechanics: Hands set at the chest. Drops head as he starts his delivery. Drops hands down to belt. Raises leg medium height. Drop and drive towards home. Short arm action in back. Loose, easy arm action. Stays on-line towards home.
Fastball: 89-94 mph. Adds and subtracts velocity. Sink when down. Solid-average-to-plus potential. Average command.
Changeup: 82-85 mph. Throws with solid arm speed and is not afraid to double up on the offering or throw it in any count. Solid-average and will flash plus.
Curveball: 75-78 mph. Slurvy break, Gives left-handed hitters trouble. He will throw the pitch to both right- and left-handed hitters, will double up on the offering. Ability to command and control for strikes. Solid-average.
Career Notes: Originally singed with the Rangers in July 2008, but was traded to San Francisco in 2010 for Rule 5 pick Ben Snyder. Stock dropped in mid-2014 with reports that his arm speed was unimpressive.
Summation: Middle to back-end starter potential. Three-pitch mix from the left side with average command and control of all pitches and ability to pitch to both sides of the plate. He has a floor of a solid left-handed bullpen arm, with a chance to stick as a starter if he continues to develop his secondary pitches and fastball command. Given his relative youth for his progression through the minors, he should continue to develop as a starter, but could fill a need out of the major league bullpen right now.
Claimed off waivers by Arizona (April 2016)
Physical Description: Medium build, strong frame. Physically mature.
Mechanics: Hands set at the chest. Drops head as he starts his delivery. Drops hands down to belt. Raises leg medium height. Drop and drive towards home. Short arm action in back. Loose, easy arm action. Stays on-line towards home.
Fastball: 89-94 mph. Adds and subtracts velocity. Sink when down. Solid-average-to-plus potential. Average command.
Changeup: 82-85 mph. Throws with solid arm speed and is not afraid to double up on the offering or throw it in any count. Solid-average and will flash plus.
Curveball: 75-78 mph. Slurvy break, Gives left-handed hitters trouble. He will throw the pitch to both right- and left-handed hitters, will double up on the offering. Ability to command and control for strikes. Solid-average.
Career Notes: Originally singed with the Rangers in July 2008, but was traded to San Francisco in 2010 for Rule 5 pick Ben Snyder. Stock dropped in mid-2014 with reports that his arm speed was unimpressive.
Summation: Middle to back-end starter potential. Three-pitch mix from the left side with average command and control of all pitches and ability to pitch to both sides of the plate. He has a floor of a solid left-handed bullpen arm, with a chance to stick as a starter if he continues to develop his secondary pitches and fastball command. Given his relative youth for his progression through the minors, he should continue to develop as a starter, but could fill a need out of the major league bullpen right now.
Re: Minor Matters
6297MLB pipeline's first look at Rule 5 prospects doesn't put any of our guys on the top 10. Good, I hope no one notices that Santander or R.Rodriguez are available.
Re: Minor Matters
6298CLE DL Rodriguez, Ronny 2B 3 1 2 2 .338 2B (8)
CLE DL Valdez, Ordomar CF 0 0 0 0 1.000
CLE VL Aguilar, Jesus 1B 5 1 2 2 .296 2B (3), BB (12)
CLE VL Diaz, Yandy DH 5 1 2 1 .352 BB (9)
CLE VL Medina, Yhoxian PR-SS 0 0 0 0 .304
CLE VL Monsalve, Alex PH-DH 2 0 0 0 .100
CLE VL Quiroz, Guillermo C 4 0 1 0 .063
CLE VL Urshela, Giovanny 3B 4 2 2 2 .359 2B (12)
CLE VL Pasquale, Nick 3 3 1 1 0 3 3.00
CLE DL Valdez, Ordomar CF 0 0 0 0 1.000
CLE VL Aguilar, Jesus 1B 5 1 2 2 .296 2B (3), BB (12)
CLE VL Diaz, Yandy DH 5 1 2 1 .352 BB (9)
CLE VL Medina, Yhoxian PR-SS 0 0 0 0 .304
CLE VL Monsalve, Alex PH-DH 2 0 0 0 .100
CLE VL Quiroz, Guillermo C 4 0 1 0 .063
CLE VL Urshela, Giovanny 3B 4 2 2 2 .359 2B (12)
CLE VL Pasquale, Nick 3 3 1 1 0 3 3.00
Re: Minor Matters
6299Civ and others -- John Sickels is looking for input before he puts out his list of the Indians top 20 prospects
http://www.minorleagueball.com/2016/11/ ... discussion
Cleveland Indians organization discussion
9
Let’s discuss the future of the American League champion Cleveland Indians.
by John Sickels@MinorLeagueBall Nov 22, 2016, 1:02pm EST
REC
Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
I am now working on the Chicago Cubs Top 20 prospect list for 2017. The next team in line is the American League Champion Cleveland Indians, to be followed by the Arizona Diamondbacks, New York Yankees, Washington Nationals, and the Houston Astros.
Use this thread to discuss the Cleveland Indians organization and farm system. Some possible points for discussion include, but are certainly not limited to,
***The Indians won 94 games in 2016, claiming the American League pennant and hanging on until Game Seven of the World Series despite a rash of injuries. What do you see for 2017? Will they get to 90+ wins again? Can they do what the Royals did in 2015, return to the World Series and win?
***Francisco Lindor is an obvious cornerstone. Do you feel the same about Jose Ramirez?
***Will Trevor Bauer ever take the final step from "pretty decent pitcher" to a true staff anchor?
***Looking at the prospects, what is your timeline for getting Bradley Zimmer into the lineup?
***True or False: Yandy Diaz will show more power soon and turn into an "out of nowhere" success story.
***As always, please share your sleepers or any other observations and thoughts about the Indians system.
http://www.minorleagueball.com/2016/11/ ... discussion
Cleveland Indians organization discussion
9
Let’s discuss the future of the American League champion Cleveland Indians.
by John Sickels@MinorLeagueBall Nov 22, 2016, 1:02pm EST
REC
Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
I am now working on the Chicago Cubs Top 20 prospect list for 2017. The next team in line is the American League Champion Cleveland Indians, to be followed by the Arizona Diamondbacks, New York Yankees, Washington Nationals, and the Houston Astros.
Use this thread to discuss the Cleveland Indians organization and farm system. Some possible points for discussion include, but are certainly not limited to,
***The Indians won 94 games in 2016, claiming the American League pennant and hanging on until Game Seven of the World Series despite a rash of injuries. What do you see for 2017? Will they get to 90+ wins again? Can they do what the Royals did in 2015, return to the World Series and win?
***Francisco Lindor is an obvious cornerstone. Do you feel the same about Jose Ramirez?
***Will Trevor Bauer ever take the final step from "pretty decent pitcher" to a true staff anchor?
***Looking at the prospects, what is your timeline for getting Bradley Zimmer into the lineup?
***True or False: Yandy Diaz will show more power soon and turn into an "out of nowhere" success story.
***As always, please share your sleepers or any other observations and thoughts about the Indians system.
Re: Minor Matters
6300Cleveland Indians Top 20 prospects for 2017
17
This is a very deep farm system with a mixture of hitting and pitching on the way up.
by John Sickels@MinorLeagueBall Nov 30, 2016, 12:45pm EST
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Francisco Mejia Denis Poroy/Getty Images
Cleveland Indians Top 20 Prospects for 2017
The list and grades are a blending of present performance and long-term potential. Comments are welcome, but in the end all analysis and responsibility is mine. All of these grades are subject to change as the winter progresses. The final grades will be finished sometime in February when all 30 teams are complete.
QUICK PRIMER ON GRADE MEANINGS
Grade A prospects are the elite. In theory, they have a good chance of becoming stars or superstars. Theoretically, most Grade A prospects develop into stars or at least major league regulars, if injuries or other problems don’t intervene. Note that is a major "if" in some cases.
Grade B prospects have a good chance to enjoy successful careers. Some will develop into stars, some will not. Most end up spending several years in the majors, at the very least in a marginal role.
Grade C prospects are the most common type. These are guys who have something positive going for them, but who may have a question mark or three, or who are just too far away from the majors to get an accurate feel for. A few Grade C guys, especially at the lower levels, do develop into stars. Many end up as role players or bench guys. Some don’t make it at all.
Finally, keep in mind that all grades are shorthand. A Grade C prospect in rookie ball could end up being very impressive, while a Grade C prospect in Triple-A is likely just a future role player
1) Francisco Mejia, C, Grade B+: Age 21, hit .342/.382/.514 between Low-A and High-A with 11 homers, 28 walks, 63 strikeouts in 407 at-bats; excellent throwing arm and caught 44% of runners trying to steal on him; posted incredible 50-game hitting streak; an impatient hitter but doesn’t strike out much, approach was more refined than in ’15; more home run power should come; defense needs more polish but has tools to be an excellent defender and already has the throwing down; ETA: late 2018.
2) Bradley Zimmer, OF, Grade B+: Age 24, hit .250/.365/.425 with 15 homers, 38 steals, 77 walks, but 171 strikeout in 468 at-bats between Double-A and Triple-A; broad range of tools and skills, above-average speed, throwing arm, and raw power he has yet to fully tap; draws walks even when having contact issues, helping his OBP; may not hit for high averages but should be strong secondary average contributor; ETA: late 2017.
3) Triston McKenzie, RHP, Grade B+: Age 19, posted 1.62 ERA in 83 innings between short-season A and Low-A, 104/22 K/BB, 58 hits; excellent pitching instincts, athletic, and stuff is picking up, fastball into low-90s now with more possible; curveball and change-up already very good, may have three plus pitches eventually with command to make everything work in synch; could be a number two starter; a personal favorite at Minor League Ball. ETA: late 2019.
4) Bobby Bradley, 1B, Grade B+: Age 20, hit .235/.344/.466 with 29 homers, 102 RBI, 75 walks, 170 strikeouts in 485 at-bats in High-A; huge left-side power, at least a 60 and perhaps more, with patient approach; obviously has contact issues which could hamper batting average at higher levels, though high walk rate helps with OBP; mediocre glove at first base could improve to average eventually but bat will have to carry him; I think it will; ETA: 2019.
5) Brady Aiken, LHP, Grade B/B+: Age 20, first round pick in 2015 coming off Tommy John surgery; posted 5.85 ERA in 46 innings between rookie ball and short-season-A, 57/21 K/BB, 52 hits; strikeout rate is promising; threw better late in the season; was in upper-80s at first but in low-90s by fall instructs; curveball and change-up should be solid with more innings; key now is building up workload and strength, can still be a number two starter if recovery continues properly. ETA: 2020.
6) Yu-Cheng Chang, SS, Grade B: Age 21, signed out of Taiwan in 2013, hit .259/.332/.463 with 13 homers, 30 doubles, 45 walks, 110 strikeouts in 417 at-bats in High-A; solid-average tools with raw speed slightly ahead of raw power; solid with the glove, though some worry that if he slows down a bit with age he’ll have to move to another spot; at present he is quite reliable for his age and has more offensive potential than most middle infielders. ETA: 2019.
7) Rob Kaminsky, LHP, Grade B: Age 22; posted 3.28 ERA in 137 innings in Double-A, 92/48 /BB, 1.70 GO/AO; fastball has lost a bit over the last couple of years and now sits in the upper-80s, which has lowered his stock somewhat; however he still has a good curveball and workable change-up, throws strikes, and gets plenty of ground balls; I still think he can be an effective inning-eater. ETA: 2018.
8) Nolan Jones, 3B, Grade B: Age 18, second round pick in 2016 from high school in Pennsylvania, hit .257/.388/.339 in rookie ball with 23 walks, 49 strikeouts in 109 at-bats; rated a very advanced high school hitter, showed ability to take walks in pro debut but needs to make better contact and tap his raw power more often; arm and range should work at third with more reps; should eventually hit for both power and average. ETA: 2021.
9) Juan Hillman, LHP, Grade B/B-: Age 19, 4.43 ERA in 63 innings in short-season A, with 47/24 K/BB, 66 hits allowed; velocity down from high school in upper-80s, still showed promising curveball and change-up and usually threw strikes although command within the strike zone could wobble; remains athletic and projectable; was strong early but looked tired down the stretch in August; I still like his chances to be a mid-rotation starter. ETA: 2021.
10) Greg Allen, OF, Grade B-: Age 23, sixth round pick in 2014 from San Diego State, hit .295/.416/.413 with 45 steals, 77 walks, 78 strikeouts in 491 at-bats between High-A and Double-A; speedy switch-hitter, 60-65 runner and uses it well, excellent defensive outfielder with deceptively strong and accurate arm; draws walks and makes contact easily; there may be some Michael Brantley-esque sneaky power in this bat at some point. ETA: 2018.
11) Will Benson, OF, Grade B-: Age 18, first round pick in 2016 from high school in Georgia hit .209/.321/.424 with six homers, 10 steals, 22 walks, 60 strikeouts in 158 at-bats in rookie ball; impressive athlete with above-average power, speed, and throwing arm; hitting skills somewhat raw but could be a 20/20 player if everything comes together; more likely a long-term development project than a rapid riser. ETA: 2022.
12) Yandy Diaz, 3B, Grade B-: Age 25, Cuban, hit .318/.408/.446 with nine homers, 71 walks, 86 strikeouts in 444 at-bats between Double-A and Triple-A; polished hitter with very good feel for hitting, consistently puts bat on ball for hard contact; home run power not strong and given his age you wouldn’t think a lot more would come, but I think it is possible it still may do so; above-average glove at third base. I like him. ETA: 2017.
13) Erik Gonzalez, SS, Grade B-: Age 25, hit .296/.329/.450 with 31 doubles, 11 homers, 12 steals, 19 walks, 88 strikeouts in 429 at-bats in Triple-A; hit .313 in 16 major league at-bats; excellent throwing arm, above-average speed, tools clear if you see him play; has power too but very aggressive approach could hamper OBP in the majors; versatile with the glove, can play infield as well as outfield without hurting you, could make very good super-utility player despite OBP questions; ETA 2017.
14) Adam Plutko, RHP, Grade B-: Age 25, 11th round pick in 2013 out of UCLA; 3.73 ERA with 130/46 K/BB in 162 innings between Double-A and Triple-A, 151 hits; not overpowering with fastball around 90 but very good change-up and solid-average curve/slider plus sharp command keep him competitive; classic fourth starter/inning-eater type with mound presence and pitchability. ETA 2017.
15) Anthony Santander, OF, Grade B-: Age 22, hit .290/.368/.494 with 42 doubles, 20 homers, 54 walks, 118 strikeouts in 500 at-bats in Low-A; from Venezuela, signed in 2011; switch-hitter with 60/70 grade power; a few issues with contact and swing consistency but controls zone reasonably; may not hit for high averages at highest levels but power should carry forward; good throwing arm, classic right field profile. ETA late 2018.
16) Tyler Krieger, 2B, Grade B-/C+: Age 22, fourth round pick in 2015 out of Clemson, hit .299/.377/.417 with 57 walks, 21 steals in 482 at-bats between Low-A and High-A; switch-hitter with gap power and good plate discipline with some speed; tools and instincts fit best at second base; physical upside is limited but he has a lot of polish. ETA 2019.
17) Shawn Morimando, LHP, Grade C+: Age 24, 19th round pick in 2011; went 15-5 in 27 start between Double-A and Triple-A with 119/57 K/BB in 152 innings, 141 hits; low-90s fastball, average breaking ball, very good change-up, typical fourth starter profile but could also slot in relief where his fastball plays up a notch; needs some additional command tightening and another half-year in Triple-A. ETA 2017.
18) Ryan Merritt, LHP, Grade C+: Age 24, 16th round pick in 2011; 3.70 ERA in 143 innings in Triple-A with 92/23 K/BB, 156 hits; threw 11 shutout innings in the majors followed by post-season heroics; ultimate finesse lefty with fastball that tops out at 90, adds in good change-up and cutter; stuff is a tick behind Morimando but his control is much better, also a potential fourth starter. ETA 2017.
19) Shawn Armstrong, RHP, Grade C+: Age 26, drafted in 18th round in 2011; excellent 2016 season in Triple-A with 1.84 ERA, 72/29 K/BB in 49 innings, just 27 hits; fastball up to 97 along with a hard breaking ball; excellent strikeout rates at all levels (357 Ks in 263 innings) though command can wobble; nothing left to prove in minors, waiting for a clear shot at a job. ETA 2017.
20) Nellie Rodriguez, 1B, Grade C+: Age 22, 15th round pick in 2012 from high school in New York; hit .250/.352/.474 with 26 homers, 75 walks, 186 strikeouts in 492 at-bats in Double-A; consistent and persistent producer at every level with 60-65 power and a strong batting eye, though contact issues will inhibit batting average; glove limited to first base; has been young for his levels. ETA 2018.
OTHER GRADE C+: These players are interchangeable with slots 17-20. I picked the guys above for write-ups since they are close to the majors and most of these other guys are further away, however I will provide any write-up you like in the comments section, so feel free to ask>
Tim Cooney, LHP (claimed on waivers from Cardinals); Shane Bieber, RHP; Aaron Civale, RHP; Andrew Calica, OF; Edwin Escobar, LHP; Matt Esparza, RHP; Oscar Gonzalez, OF; Cameron Hill, RHP; Logan Ice; C; Leando Linares, rHP; Luis Lugo, LHP; Gabriel Mejia, OF; Julian Merryweather, RHP; Thomas Pannone, LHP; Dorssys Paulino, OF; Francisco Perez, LHP; Ka’ai Tom, OF
GRADE C: Jesus Aguilar, 1B; Dylan Baker, RHP; Mitch Brown, RHP; Ulysses Cantu, 3B; Conner Capel, OF; Willi Castro, SS; Joseph Colon, RHP; Perci Garner, RHP; Jeremy Lucas, C;
Connor Marabell, OF; Mark Mathias, INF; Micah Miniard, RHP; Mike Papi, OF; Dan Salters, C; Eric Stamets, SS; Samad Taylor, 2B; Luke Wakamatsu, SS
This is an incredibly deep system right now; with an impressive mixture of hitting and pitching and a very, very large number of Grade C+ prospects. Let’s discuss in the comments section.
17
This is a very deep farm system with a mixture of hitting and pitching on the way up.
by John Sickels@MinorLeagueBall Nov 30, 2016, 12:45pm EST
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Francisco Mejia Denis Poroy/Getty Images
Cleveland Indians Top 20 Prospects for 2017
The list and grades are a blending of present performance and long-term potential. Comments are welcome, but in the end all analysis and responsibility is mine. All of these grades are subject to change as the winter progresses. The final grades will be finished sometime in February when all 30 teams are complete.
QUICK PRIMER ON GRADE MEANINGS
Grade A prospects are the elite. In theory, they have a good chance of becoming stars or superstars. Theoretically, most Grade A prospects develop into stars or at least major league regulars, if injuries or other problems don’t intervene. Note that is a major "if" in some cases.
Grade B prospects have a good chance to enjoy successful careers. Some will develop into stars, some will not. Most end up spending several years in the majors, at the very least in a marginal role.
Grade C prospects are the most common type. These are guys who have something positive going for them, but who may have a question mark or three, or who are just too far away from the majors to get an accurate feel for. A few Grade C guys, especially at the lower levels, do develop into stars. Many end up as role players or bench guys. Some don’t make it at all.
Finally, keep in mind that all grades are shorthand. A Grade C prospect in rookie ball could end up being very impressive, while a Grade C prospect in Triple-A is likely just a future role player
1) Francisco Mejia, C, Grade B+: Age 21, hit .342/.382/.514 between Low-A and High-A with 11 homers, 28 walks, 63 strikeouts in 407 at-bats; excellent throwing arm and caught 44% of runners trying to steal on him; posted incredible 50-game hitting streak; an impatient hitter but doesn’t strike out much, approach was more refined than in ’15; more home run power should come; defense needs more polish but has tools to be an excellent defender and already has the throwing down; ETA: late 2018.
2) Bradley Zimmer, OF, Grade B+: Age 24, hit .250/.365/.425 with 15 homers, 38 steals, 77 walks, but 171 strikeout in 468 at-bats between Double-A and Triple-A; broad range of tools and skills, above-average speed, throwing arm, and raw power he has yet to fully tap; draws walks even when having contact issues, helping his OBP; may not hit for high averages but should be strong secondary average contributor; ETA: late 2017.
3) Triston McKenzie, RHP, Grade B+: Age 19, posted 1.62 ERA in 83 innings between short-season A and Low-A, 104/22 K/BB, 58 hits; excellent pitching instincts, athletic, and stuff is picking up, fastball into low-90s now with more possible; curveball and change-up already very good, may have three plus pitches eventually with command to make everything work in synch; could be a number two starter; a personal favorite at Minor League Ball. ETA: late 2019.
4) Bobby Bradley, 1B, Grade B+: Age 20, hit .235/.344/.466 with 29 homers, 102 RBI, 75 walks, 170 strikeouts in 485 at-bats in High-A; huge left-side power, at least a 60 and perhaps more, with patient approach; obviously has contact issues which could hamper batting average at higher levels, though high walk rate helps with OBP; mediocre glove at first base could improve to average eventually but bat will have to carry him; I think it will; ETA: 2019.
5) Brady Aiken, LHP, Grade B/B+: Age 20, first round pick in 2015 coming off Tommy John surgery; posted 5.85 ERA in 46 innings between rookie ball and short-season-A, 57/21 K/BB, 52 hits; strikeout rate is promising; threw better late in the season; was in upper-80s at first but in low-90s by fall instructs; curveball and change-up should be solid with more innings; key now is building up workload and strength, can still be a number two starter if recovery continues properly. ETA: 2020.
6) Yu-Cheng Chang, SS, Grade B: Age 21, signed out of Taiwan in 2013, hit .259/.332/.463 with 13 homers, 30 doubles, 45 walks, 110 strikeouts in 417 at-bats in High-A; solid-average tools with raw speed slightly ahead of raw power; solid with the glove, though some worry that if he slows down a bit with age he’ll have to move to another spot; at present he is quite reliable for his age and has more offensive potential than most middle infielders. ETA: 2019.
7) Rob Kaminsky, LHP, Grade B: Age 22; posted 3.28 ERA in 137 innings in Double-A, 92/48 /BB, 1.70 GO/AO; fastball has lost a bit over the last couple of years and now sits in the upper-80s, which has lowered his stock somewhat; however he still has a good curveball and workable change-up, throws strikes, and gets plenty of ground balls; I still think he can be an effective inning-eater. ETA: 2018.
8) Nolan Jones, 3B, Grade B: Age 18, second round pick in 2016 from high school in Pennsylvania, hit .257/.388/.339 in rookie ball with 23 walks, 49 strikeouts in 109 at-bats; rated a very advanced high school hitter, showed ability to take walks in pro debut but needs to make better contact and tap his raw power more often; arm and range should work at third with more reps; should eventually hit for both power and average. ETA: 2021.
9) Juan Hillman, LHP, Grade B/B-: Age 19, 4.43 ERA in 63 innings in short-season A, with 47/24 K/BB, 66 hits allowed; velocity down from high school in upper-80s, still showed promising curveball and change-up and usually threw strikes although command within the strike zone could wobble; remains athletic and projectable; was strong early but looked tired down the stretch in August; I still like his chances to be a mid-rotation starter. ETA: 2021.
10) Greg Allen, OF, Grade B-: Age 23, sixth round pick in 2014 from San Diego State, hit .295/.416/.413 with 45 steals, 77 walks, 78 strikeouts in 491 at-bats between High-A and Double-A; speedy switch-hitter, 60-65 runner and uses it well, excellent defensive outfielder with deceptively strong and accurate arm; draws walks and makes contact easily; there may be some Michael Brantley-esque sneaky power in this bat at some point. ETA: 2018.
11) Will Benson, OF, Grade B-: Age 18, first round pick in 2016 from high school in Georgia hit .209/.321/.424 with six homers, 10 steals, 22 walks, 60 strikeouts in 158 at-bats in rookie ball; impressive athlete with above-average power, speed, and throwing arm; hitting skills somewhat raw but could be a 20/20 player if everything comes together; more likely a long-term development project than a rapid riser. ETA: 2022.
12) Yandy Diaz, 3B, Grade B-: Age 25, Cuban, hit .318/.408/.446 with nine homers, 71 walks, 86 strikeouts in 444 at-bats between Double-A and Triple-A; polished hitter with very good feel for hitting, consistently puts bat on ball for hard contact; home run power not strong and given his age you wouldn’t think a lot more would come, but I think it is possible it still may do so; above-average glove at third base. I like him. ETA: 2017.
13) Erik Gonzalez, SS, Grade B-: Age 25, hit .296/.329/.450 with 31 doubles, 11 homers, 12 steals, 19 walks, 88 strikeouts in 429 at-bats in Triple-A; hit .313 in 16 major league at-bats; excellent throwing arm, above-average speed, tools clear if you see him play; has power too but very aggressive approach could hamper OBP in the majors; versatile with the glove, can play infield as well as outfield without hurting you, could make very good super-utility player despite OBP questions; ETA 2017.
14) Adam Plutko, RHP, Grade B-: Age 25, 11th round pick in 2013 out of UCLA; 3.73 ERA with 130/46 K/BB in 162 innings between Double-A and Triple-A, 151 hits; not overpowering with fastball around 90 but very good change-up and solid-average curve/slider plus sharp command keep him competitive; classic fourth starter/inning-eater type with mound presence and pitchability. ETA 2017.
15) Anthony Santander, OF, Grade B-: Age 22, hit .290/.368/.494 with 42 doubles, 20 homers, 54 walks, 118 strikeouts in 500 at-bats in Low-A; from Venezuela, signed in 2011; switch-hitter with 60/70 grade power; a few issues with contact and swing consistency but controls zone reasonably; may not hit for high averages at highest levels but power should carry forward; good throwing arm, classic right field profile. ETA late 2018.
16) Tyler Krieger, 2B, Grade B-/C+: Age 22, fourth round pick in 2015 out of Clemson, hit .299/.377/.417 with 57 walks, 21 steals in 482 at-bats between Low-A and High-A; switch-hitter with gap power and good plate discipline with some speed; tools and instincts fit best at second base; physical upside is limited but he has a lot of polish. ETA 2019.
17) Shawn Morimando, LHP, Grade C+: Age 24, 19th round pick in 2011; went 15-5 in 27 start between Double-A and Triple-A with 119/57 K/BB in 152 innings, 141 hits; low-90s fastball, average breaking ball, very good change-up, typical fourth starter profile but could also slot in relief where his fastball plays up a notch; needs some additional command tightening and another half-year in Triple-A. ETA 2017.
18) Ryan Merritt, LHP, Grade C+: Age 24, 16th round pick in 2011; 3.70 ERA in 143 innings in Triple-A with 92/23 K/BB, 156 hits; threw 11 shutout innings in the majors followed by post-season heroics; ultimate finesse lefty with fastball that tops out at 90, adds in good change-up and cutter; stuff is a tick behind Morimando but his control is much better, also a potential fourth starter. ETA 2017.
19) Shawn Armstrong, RHP, Grade C+: Age 26, drafted in 18th round in 2011; excellent 2016 season in Triple-A with 1.84 ERA, 72/29 K/BB in 49 innings, just 27 hits; fastball up to 97 along with a hard breaking ball; excellent strikeout rates at all levels (357 Ks in 263 innings) though command can wobble; nothing left to prove in minors, waiting for a clear shot at a job. ETA 2017.
20) Nellie Rodriguez, 1B, Grade C+: Age 22, 15th round pick in 2012 from high school in New York; hit .250/.352/.474 with 26 homers, 75 walks, 186 strikeouts in 492 at-bats in Double-A; consistent and persistent producer at every level with 60-65 power and a strong batting eye, though contact issues will inhibit batting average; glove limited to first base; has been young for his levels. ETA 2018.
OTHER GRADE C+: These players are interchangeable with slots 17-20. I picked the guys above for write-ups since they are close to the majors and most of these other guys are further away, however I will provide any write-up you like in the comments section, so feel free to ask>
Tim Cooney, LHP (claimed on waivers from Cardinals); Shane Bieber, RHP; Aaron Civale, RHP; Andrew Calica, OF; Edwin Escobar, LHP; Matt Esparza, RHP; Oscar Gonzalez, OF; Cameron Hill, RHP; Logan Ice; C; Leando Linares, rHP; Luis Lugo, LHP; Gabriel Mejia, OF; Julian Merryweather, RHP; Thomas Pannone, LHP; Dorssys Paulino, OF; Francisco Perez, LHP; Ka’ai Tom, OF
GRADE C: Jesus Aguilar, 1B; Dylan Baker, RHP; Mitch Brown, RHP; Ulysses Cantu, 3B; Conner Capel, OF; Willi Castro, SS; Joseph Colon, RHP; Perci Garner, RHP; Jeremy Lucas, C;
Connor Marabell, OF; Mark Mathias, INF; Micah Miniard, RHP; Mike Papi, OF; Dan Salters, C; Eric Stamets, SS; Samad Taylor, 2B; Luke Wakamatsu, SS
This is an incredibly deep system right now; with an impressive mixture of hitting and pitching and a very, very large number of Grade C+ prospects. Let’s discuss in the comments section.