[brid video=”212040″ player=”10951″ title=”Five Prospects to know for 2018 Fantasy Baseball”]
We’re moving slower than expected, so instead of the next 100 prospects, I’m cutting it into two posts of 50 prospects. Disappointing? Possibly, but you still got 6500 words to read, ponder, debate. It’s all there for the taking. What am I talking about? Honestly I’m not sure, I’m writing this at 3 AM, delirious from the research, coffee, and myrcene rich leaves. It’s the next bunch of blokes with big dreams and lots of upside for your fantasy roster. I’ve tried to get a little more “groupie”. Wait, what? I tried to group similar types together here. There’s an insane amount of upside guys in this post. So if that’s your jammy jam, you’re going to be pleased. Or maybe not, possibly you’re always grumpy, but that’s not my problem. Editing these posts is my problem! AHHHHHHH PROSPECTS. For the Top 100 Fantasy Baseball Prospects. Here’s the Top 150 Prospects for 2018 Fantasy Baseball:
102) Colin Moran, 1B/3B Pirates | Age: 25 | Level: AAA | 2017 Stats: .301/.369/.532, 18 HR, 65 RBI, 0 SB
I’m starting to eat my words on Moran, as he’s finally getting his shot, following an off-season trade to Pittsburgh. Looking like the starter at third entering the season, Moran hit .346/.370/.423 this spring, but didn’t hit a homer. Let’s hope that’s not a trend, as Moran started to flash more power potential following a launch angle adjustment. This resulted in his first .500+ slugging performance of his MiLB career, and renewed faith he could reach the status of above average hitter. A good re-draft sleeper IMO. ETA: 2018
103) Yadier Alvarez, RHP Dodgers | Age: 21 | Level: AA | 2017 Stats: 4-6, 92.1 IP, 4.68 ERA, 1.52 WHIP, 97 Ks, 50 Bb
This time a year ago, Alvarez was all the rage in scouting circles, many viewed him as top 50 prospect, and a player that would move quickly through the upper levels of the minors. That however did not happen, in fact the opposite happened in 2017, as his long standing control issues surfaced. That’s not to say he doesn’t still offer an enticing package to scouts. He’s long, lean, athletic, and gets to his velocity in the easiest of ways. Problem is, in baseball you need to throw strikes, and despite an upper 90’s heater. His secondaries either aren’t very good (his changeup), or he lacks feel (slider). Might end up a high leverage reliever if he can throw enough strikes. ETA: 2019
104) Alex Faedo, RHP Tigers | Age: 22 | Level: N/A | 2017 Stats: Did Not Play
The Tigers rested Faedo, after he threw 123.2 innings as the ace of the U of Florida team that won the national championship. After starting slow in the spring as he recovered from off-season knee surgery, Faedo began to regain the giddy up on his fastball. By the end of the season Faedo was working 92-94, and touching 98 on occasion. His fastball has great action and movement, making it tough to barrel up. Which is why the returned velocity is such a boost to his value. He throws an excellent slider, that gives him a true out pitch, many considered it to be amongst the best breaking balls in the 2017 draft. From time to time he mixes in an average change as well, and the development of this pitch might be key to his future success as a starter. ETA: 2020
105) Chance Sisco, C Orioles | Age: 22 | Level: AAA | 2017 Stats: .267/.340/.395, 7 HR, 47 RBI, 2 SB
It’s taken 4 and a half years to get to Baltimore, but with Wellington Castillo off to Chicago, there’s a chance…Sisco plays a significant role for the Orioles this season. His ability to hit for average has always been his calling card, with his power lacking behind, but during a 10 game stint in the bigs he hit 2 homers, and flashed some pop. Perhaps he has some juiced ball magic in his bat? Either way Sisco will be up in Baltimore this year, but I expect mediocre fantasy results. He’s mashed this spring going .419/.471/.839, so maybe the power is real. If so, Sisco could blossom into an elite fantasy catcher, permitting he sticks behind the plate. ETA: 2018
106) Yusniel Diaz, OF Dodgers | Age: 21 | Level: AA | 2017 Stats: .292/.354/.433, 11 HR, 52 RBI, 9 SB
There are some that love Diaz as a fantasy prospect, I get it to a certain extent. There are tools there that could translate, but I find it hard to buy into Diaz as a future fantasy difference maker. That said, there’s a lot to like. He cleaned up his swing from April to the end of the season, has displayed high exit velocities to scouts, and is strong and athletic in his movements. This is a future MLB regular for sure, but he might be more of a 5th outfield type in fantasy. He has speed, but was caught 14 out of 23 attempts. That’s not good BTW. ETA: 2019
107) Jorge Alfaro, C Phillies | Age: 24 | Level: AAA | 2017 Stats: .241/.291/.358, 7 HR, 43 RBI, 1 SB
Is it a love/hate relationship if you dislike a player, but can see his value in re-draft and dynasty leagues leading up to his first shot at a full time MLB gig? Call it prospect fatigue if you want, but I’ve never been a huge fan of Jorge Alfaro. Particularly, when compared to some of my esteemed colleagues in the industry. First the good, Alfaro has plus plus raw power, good athleticism, and the catching ability to lock down an everyday MLB gig. He provided phenomenal production in his MLB debut hitting .318/.360/.514 with 5 homers in 107 at bats. The early word out of camp is Gabe Kapler prefers Alfaro as the primary catcher. Leading many to foresee the potential for a top 10 catcher season in redraft. Now for the bad, he swings and misses a ton, lacks much strike zone awareness, or pitch recognition ability, he won’t hit for average, and has never put up a truly impressive power season in the minors. Alfaro is mixed league relevant in 2018, and has a ton of upside if he can cleanup his at bats, and wait for his pitch, but I’m not confident that happens. Smells more like Zunino than a Sanchez. ETA: 2018
108) Kevin Maitan, SS Angels | Age: 17 | Level: AAA | 2017 Stats: .241/.290/.340, 2 HR, 18 RBI, 2 SB
Let’s try and keep in mind how young Maitan is before getting too worked up over his numbers. As I’ve been saying for a few months, if Maitan was American he’d be a senior in high school. The profile should be well known, an elite power prospect that draws comparisons to hall of fame talents. He got caught up in the whirlwind of the John Coppolella story. Got released from his contract, and was then able to sign with the Angels for $2.2 Million. The issues with his weight gain and not being as polished as promised will saw him drop in this Top 100 Update. Don’t panic yet though, Maitan is still a Top 100 talent. One that possesses a powerful swing from both sides of the plate, and decent athleticism despite the bad body. ETA: 2022
109) Austin Beck, OF Athletics | Age: 19 | Level: Rk | 2017 Stats: .211/.293/.349, 2 HR, 28 RBI, 7 SB
Insane bat speed, raw power, and a plus runner, Beck is one of the more toolsy players in the draft class. Unfortunately he’s also one of the most raw, and he struggled at times in rookie ball. The tools are all there, but he’s going to need time. Lance and I talked a lot of Beck on the A’s podcast. ETA: 2021
110) Wander Franco, SS Rays | Age: 17 | Level: N/A | 2017 Stats: Did not play
The top player in the July 2nd class signed with the Rays for just under $4 million, and like many hyped J2 talents is tough to gauge value on at this stage. On one hand he’s a consensus top international player with some nice tools. He hits well from both sides of the plate, makes contact, runs, shows strike zone awareness, and flashes power in batting practice. On the other hand he’s 16 years old, 5 years away, and there’s no guarantee he’s truly an elite talent. He does possesses MLB genes, Erick Aybar is his uncle, I know, don’t get TOO excited. Leave that to Aybar! You can get excited however about his elite bat speed, quick hands, and roman fingers. (I have not confirmed if he’s ever used the “David Cop-A-Feel” bit. Though I’m sure Uncle Erick has…) The ceiling looks like a switch-hitting middle infielder with power from both sides. I’ve seen comparisons to Rougned Odor, Gleyber Torres, and Andy from the Office, but something about that last one seems off. ETA: 2021
111) Shane Baz, RHP Pirates | Age: 18 | Level: Rk | 2017 Stats: 0-3, 23.2 IP, 3.80 ERA, 1.69 WHIP, 19 K, 14 Bb
Baz is a fire-balling Texan with a varied stable of offerings. His fastball is a plus pitch featuring a velocity range between 91-98, with two plane movement. It’s a pitch he really has feel for, which is why the variance is so great with the pitch’s velocity. Baz’s pitchability and feel are truly impressive for a prep player. His ability to take something off, and reshape his pitches gives him two distinctive plus offerings in his high 80’s cutter and low-mid 80’s slider. He also features an average curveball, and a work in progress change that shows encouraging run. I’d ignore the rookie ball numbers, Baz’s talent is in good hands in the Pirates organization. ETA: 2020
112) Luis Garcia, 2B/SS Nationals | Age: 17 | Level: Rk | 2017 Stats: .302/.330/.387, 1 HR, 22 RBI, 11 SB
Signed out of the DR for $1.3 million back in 2016, Garcia is a tooled up middle infield prospect with a high upside offensive skillset. Blessed with quick hands, and even quicker feet, Garcia excels at shooting liners to the gap and using his speed to push for extra bases. He’s still young and raw, but shows a good foundation of hitting and speed for a lead-off type profile. ETA: 2021
113) Gabriel Arias, SS Padres | Age: 18 | Level: A | 2017 Stats: .265/.312/.326, 0 HR, 17 RBI, 5 SB
Part of the Padres 2016 J2 class, (I’ve been touting for close to a year and a half now) Arias is a toolsy shortstop, that looks like he could develop more pop in his bat. Arias doesn’t turn 18 until February, and has already played 16 games in full season ball. His bat to ball skills are excellent, and he’s said to flash more power in batting practice. If you take Arias, you have to be willing to wait, but there’s a very good chance it’s worth the investment. Oh, and a I wrote a sleeper on him. ETA: 2021
114) Lolo Sanchez, OF Pirates | Age: 18 | Level: RK| 2017 Stats: .284/.359/.417, 4 HR, 20 RBI, 14 SB
A plus-plus runner, with gap-to-gap-power, and a line drive focused approach. Lolo was one of the standouts of the Gulf Coast League this summer, and not just for his peculiar name. He’s adept at using the whole field, putting the ball in play to use his speed, and working counts like a seasoned vet. At just 18 the upside for Sanchez is through the roof. ETA: 2021
115) Yasel Antuna, SS/3B Nationals | Age: 18 | Level: RK | 2017 Stats: .301/.382/.399, 1 HR, 17 RBI, 5 SB
Another rookie ball stud in the Washington system, Antuna signed during the same period as compatriot Luis Garcia for a cool $3.85 Million. A switch-hitter with middle of the order power potential, his polished approach leads many to envision a potential future superstar. Time will tell but Antuna is a great upside play in deeper dynasty formats. ETA: 2021
116) Esteury Ruiz, 2B Padres | Age: 19 | Level: RK | 2017 Stats: .350/.395/.602, 4 HR, 39 RBI, 26 SB
I’m as confused as you as to why the Royals gave up Ruiz and Matt Strahm for an injured Trevor Cahill rental, and two relievers, Brandon Maurer, and Ryan Buchter. But that’s all besides the point, Ruiz can play. A compact quick swing from the right-side, great baserunning instincts, strong wrists, and explosive bat speed, make Ruiz one of the true rising prospects in the lower minors. One to watch this season. ETA: 2020
117) Mark Vientos, SS Mets | Age: 18 | Level: Rk | 2017 Stats: .262/.318/.398, 4 HR, 26 RBI, 0 SB
One of the youngest players in the 2017 draft, Vientos pairs hitting ability, projectable power, and baseball IQ, with the defensive chops to stick on the leftside of the infield. His quick, lofty swing is easy to fall in love with, and the strength of his hands is evident upon first glance. He flashed more power in the GCL than he had previously shown in the prep ranks, and there’s reason to believe his power could continue to grow into the mid-20’s variety. The size of his frame (6’4 190), paired with his lack of footspeed should lead to a move to third. Has the bat and upside to develop into a top 50 prospect. Good stash in dynasty if you can wait 3+ years. ETA: 2021
118) Hans Crouse, RHP Rangers | Age: 19 | Level: Rk | 2017 Stats: 0-0, 20 IP, 0.45 ERA, 0.70 WHIP, 30 K, 7 Bb
Crouse’s combination of deception, a plus-plus high 90’s fastball, and a nasty breaking ball, keeps hitters off balance. Hence the .109 batting average against in his pro debut. An ultra fiery, and competitive personality, Crouse might excel in a relief role at the MLB level in the next few years, despite his age. ETA: 2020
119) Blake Rutherford, OF White Sox | Age: 20 | Level: A | 2017 Stats: .260/.326/.348, 2 HR, 35 RBI, 10 SB
Not too long in the past Rutherford looked like the top prep talent in the 2016 Draft. Three summers later, and Rutherford’s fallen in the first round to the Yanks, made his full season debut, and been traded. It’s easy to look at Rutherford’s underwhelming slashline and dismiss him as another highly touted prep bust, but there’s an elite hitter still here. With good bat speed, a plus approach, a discerning eye, and raw power that should blossom into game power. Rutherford is still very much a player with huge upside. His swing is more geared to line drive contact at the moment, but he should be able to launch-angle his way to plus power. His overall slashline was crushed by a bad August where he slashed .205/.287/.244. Prior to that he hit .283/.342/.388, once again a poor power showing, but still decent numbers for a player in his full-season debut. At the moment Rutherford has some foot speed, but it should disappear after his body fills out. Not a bad buy low in dynasty leagues this off-season. ETA: 2021
120) Jeter Downs, SS Reds | Age: 19 | Level: RK | 2017 Stats: .267/.370/.424, 6 HR, 29 RBI, 8 SB
A top of the scale athlete with a plus arm and the range to stick at short, Downs is no slouch with the bat. An advanced plate approach, above average speed, and developing power, Downs in some ways is reminiscent of the Reds 2016 Comp Round pick Taylor Trammell. Downs has a relaxed, simple swing, staying back on the ball and making loud contact to all fields, it’s easy to see a future major leaguer when watching his at bats. The raw power sticks out in his cage work, and is fairly simple to project from his frame. You’ll likely have to wait four years for Downs arrival, but his projection as a possible plus offensive player in the middle infield, make him a great stash. ETA: 2021
121) Ryan Vilade, SS Rockies | Age: 18 | Level: Rk | 2017 Stats: .308/.438/.496 5 HR, 21 RBI, 5 SB
Made my Top 10 3rd base prospects list at 12. I know that doesn’t make sense. I’m enamored with Vilade’s mix of power, contact, approach, and athleticism. Technically Vilade is a shortstop, but he’s expected to move off the position, and his bat looks like it will play anywhere. Already showing the ability to make hard contact, best exemplified by his elite 26% LD%, Vilade has power to all fields. The whispers are that Vilade could see a full season assignment out of camp next year, making him one of the more unheralded talents of the current draft class. ETA: 2021
122) Jeisson Rosario, OF Padres | Age: 18 | Level: RK | 2017 Stats: .299/.404/.369, 1 HR, 24 RBI, 8 SB
A five tool freak with advanced approach, and feel for the strike zone. Rosario is especially raw in same ways however, and maturity is an issue. He’s mostly been a heavy opposite field hitter, but has shown flashes of driving the ball to his pullside. I love Rosario’s upside and own him all over. ETA: 2020
123) Bubba Thompson, OF Rangers | Age: 19 | Level: Rk | 2017 Stats: .257/.317/.434, 3 HR, 12 RBI, 5 SB
One of the better athletes, if not the best high school athlete in the draft, Thompson offers potential 5 category upside. A 60 grade runner, his loose right handed swing shows potential for more power, and consistent contact. The reports from the backfields have been especially encouraging with many lauding his transcendent talent. ETA: 2021
124) Jose Israel Garcia, SS Reds | Age: 19 | Level: N/A | 2017 Stats: Did Not Play Stateside
A 19 year old highly talented Cuban shortstop signed for $5 Million this summer. Garcia has a typical long Cuban swing, but you can see his raw power on video, making consistent hard contact. Not much more to report until he plays stateside. ETA: 2020
125) D.J. Peters, OF Dodgers | Age: 22 | Level: A+ | 2017 Stats: .276/.372/.514, 27 HR, 82 RBI, 3 SB
The first time I wrote about Peters was following the 2016 Draft, I ranked him 48th in my First Year Player Draft Top 50, and discussed him as one of the potential breakouts of 2017. Based on the above statline, and Arizona Fall League invite, it’s safe to say that was one of the few things I’ve been right about in the last 3 years. He’s an athletically built 6’6 giant, with the ability to play all three outfield positions. He has a long swing, and has trouble with fastballs on the inner-half because of it. He does however, have massive raw power, and makes pitchers pay when they leave anything over the plate. His pitch recognition is above average, and so far in the lower minors his walks rates have stayed above 10%. The struggles with velo on the inside concerns me as he moves up through the upper levels. ETA: 2019
126) J.B. Bukauskas, RHP Astros | Age: 21 | Level: Rk | 2017 Stats: 0-0, 10 IP, 2.70 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 9 K, 5 Bb
Excellent fastball/slider combo, with many scouts labeling Bukauskus’ slider as the best breaking ball in the draft. Not very big at 6 feet, 190 LBS, so he gets comped to other short starters with good collegiate track records like Sonny Gray and Carson Fulmer. There’s high end upside here, but some pen risk questions too. Bukauskas was the “Ralph Special” of the draft, meaning a small righty with oodles of upside. It’s not hyperbole to say his slider is in contention for “the singe best pitch in the 2017 draft”, pairs it with a mid 90’s fastball, and an average changeup. JB really lives off of the nastiness of that slider and how well he commands it, helps the fastball play up. Definitely some pen concerns, but there’s high end upside. No word on the quality of his gooch maintenance (claws up). ETA: 2019
127) Isaac Paredes, SS Tigers | Age: 18 | Level: A | 2017 Stats: .252/.338/.387, 11 HR, 70 RBI, 2 SB
It’s easy to look at Paredes statline and be dismissive, but keep in mind this is an 18 year old who spent the year in full season ball, and was traded at the deadline. With context, it’s not such a bad showing. Paredes possesses above average bat speed, excellent bat to ball skills, and above average power. He’s been described by many as a natural hitter, whatever that means. Draws comps to Jhonny Peralta and Gleyber Torres, not sure if they too were natural hitters. ETA: 2020
128) A.J. Minter, LHP Braves | Age: 24 | Level: AAA | 2017 Stats: 1-2, 24.1 IP, 3.33 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, 30 Ks, 12 Bb
Lefty pen arm, looks like he has a spot in Atlanta for 2018 and beyond. Minter has had a lengthy injury history with shoulder and elbow issues on his medical rap sheet. He pairs an upper-90’s fastball with a plus slider, could end up a closer one day if he stays healthy. ETA: 2018
129) Sheldon Neuse, 3B Athletics | Age: 23 | 2017 Stats: .321/.382/.502 16 HR, 79 RBI, 14 SB
The prospect community as a whole is very split on what Neuse projects out to be. He strikes out a lot, has only hit for middling power, and has the sort of bad body that puts off scouts. Despite great numbers at Oklahoma, through two levels of A ball, AA, and the Arizona Fall League, Neuse still has his detractors. I’m not one of those, as it’s really difficult for me to ignore the production for what’s going on three plus seasons. His greatest assets are his plus raw power, advanced understanding of hitting, and great instincts. Neuse has that je ne sais quoi, that allows everything in his game to tick up. Severely underrated in dynasty formats, this kid can hit. ETA: 2019
130) Shed Long, 2B Reds | Age: 22 | Level: AA | 2017 Stats: .281/.358/.477, 16 HR, 50 RBI, 9 SB
A 2017 pre-season darling of yours truly, and season long teammate of top rated prospect Nick Senzel. Shed, had a serious Jekyll and Hyde season. He was excellent in A ball slashing .312/.358/.543 with 13 homers in 62 games. A late June callup to AA didn’t go nearly as smooth. Long slashed .227/.312/.362 with just 3 homers over 42 games with Pensacola. It should be noted he was a little unlucky on balls in play, and did improve both his strikeout and walk rates at AA. While it’s certainly a hitch in his excellent track record of production, it’s not all bad. Shed’s got a quick lefty swing with an uppercut path, leading to some swing and miss but also a good power floor. I think there’s potentially 25 homer power in Long’s bat. ETA: 2019
131) Dylan Cease, RHP White Sox | Age: 21 | Level: A | 2017 Stats: 1-10, 93.1 IP, 3.28 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 126 K, 44 Bb
It’s been a roller-coaster ride for those of us that own Cease in dynasty leagues. He’s always flashed front of the rotation stuff and potential, but has been oft-injured. At one point not too long ago, I thought he had one of the highest upsides in the minors. But the laundry list of injuries, and some serious mechanics concerns, leave it a better than 50/50 shot he ends up in the pen. His pure stuff is as good as anyone, mixing a nasty high 90’s fastball with sink, a hammer curve, and a fringy change. The command and control are inconsistent, and at times downright bad. Despite missing time with an ankle injury, Cease stayed mostly healthy avoiding any arm related flare ups. He’s coming off a strong spring and could really jump back up this list with a strong first half showing. ETA: 2019
132) Matt Manning, RHP Tigers | Level: A | Age: 19 | 2017 Stats: 4-2, 51 IP, 3.18 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, 62 K, 25 Bb
The 19 year old righty is a tall athletic specimen, with a live four-seam fastball, and a massive amount of upside. The 9th overall pick in the 2016 draft, spent the first half of 2017 refining his mechanics in extended spring training. As should be expected from a player that didn’t fully commit to baseball until his senior year of high school, it might take a little longer for Manning to cultivate refinement in his sequencing and approach. His arsenal is comprised of a rising high 90’s fastball, a changeup, and a spiked curveball. Manning is presently dealing with an oblique strain, but has resumed throwing, and should join Low-A West Michigan, following a run at extended spring. Power pitcher with top of the rotation upside. ETA: 2021
133) Khalil Lee, OF Royals | Age: 19 | Level: A | 2017 Stats: .237/.344/.430, 17 HR, 61 RBI, 20 SB
I love athletic outfielders with power and speed, and this explains my affinity for Lee. There’s a lot of swing and miss concern, but his walk rates are elite, pointing to at least above average pitch recognition skills. From my observations Lee’s strikeout issues are more likely rooted in the inconsistency in his swing mechanics. He does possess elite bat speed, and hands as quick as lightning. The combination of on base ability, speed, and power, make Lee one of the less talked about Toolsheds on the edges of my Top 100. ETA: 2020
134) Lucas Erceg, 3B Brewers | Age: 22 | Level: AAA | 2017 Stats: .259/.310/.421, 15 HR, 83 RBI, 2 SB
It’s been a long and winding road to get to this point for Erceg. Some off the field problems led to his dismissal at Cal, he surfaced at NAIA Menlo College where he built up his Draft stock enough to go to the Brewers in the second round. His game is predicated on plus bat speed and the ability to mash what’s given to him. He was one of the top “breakout” hypes from this time last year, and I got swept up a little. It’s tough not to when you see a player put up a nearly .900 OPS in their pro debut. His approach leaves much to be desired as he walked only 35 times in 531 plate appearances. His splits were pretty ugly this year as well, slashing .253/.289/.374 in same side matchups. In an interview with Baseball Census, he discussed adjusting his approach vs. lefthanders, as well as the amount of southpaws in the Carolina League last year. The rest of Erceg’s game is solid, he’s an above average fielder with a plus arm that should keep him at third, and he’s a good base runner for a corner infielder. Ultimately the skills are there for Erceg to one day reach mixed league viability as a power hitting corner bat, particularly if he can improve his approach and clean up his split issues. Dealing with some back issues, and with the injuries piling up the past few seasons, it leaves you something to watch ETA: 2019
135) Albert Abreu, RHP Yankees | Age: 22 | Level: A+ | 2017 Stats: 2-3, 53.1 IP, 3.37 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 61 Ks, 18 Bb
With Gary Sanchez ready to take over as the everyday catcher, the Yankees did well to net a couple of high upside arms in Albert Abreu and Jorge Guzman for Brian McCann. The latter of which was used to net Giancarlo Stanton this offseason. Long an exciting, but frustrating talent, Abreu grew a lot throughout a trying 2017, and impressed many who watched him in the Arizona Fall League, even if the results weren’t stellar. The knock on Abreu continues to be the thrower label, but he has made strides with his pitchability the last year in the Yankees organization. His fastball is double plus, reaching triple digits on occasion, with the rest of his arsenal consisting of a curveball that flashes plus, and an evolving changeup. There’s still a ton of work that needs to be done, but if Abreu can unlock his control, and learn to be a pitcher, there’s front of the rotation potential. ETA: 2020
136) Nick Gordon, 2B/SS Twins | Age: 22 | Level: AA | 2017 Stats: .270/.341/.408 9 HR, 66 RBI, 13 SB
Unlike his brother Dee, Nick isn’t a speed demon or even a one category superstar. He might be a better all around player than Dee, certainly providing more pop in his bat, but that’s not saying a ton. He’s a does everything well, but no standout tool type player, that should be fantasy relevant, but never a superstar. His swing is designed more to rope line drives than knock homers, but there’s at least a possibility of mid-teen homer totals. He’s got a shot at contributing in fantasy whether as a second baseman or a shortstop, but he’ll need to find average power, get on base, and score runs to be a factor. He might just be a solid MLB player, but never a must own player in 12 team leagues. ETA: 2019
137) Jose Albertos, RHP Cubs | Age: 19 | Level: A- | 2017 Stats: 2-1, 43 IP, 3.14 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, 48 Ks, 17 Bb
There’s a strong case for Albertos to be listed as the top prospect in the Cubs system, but there’s many that feel the risk outweighs the upside. As you may well know, I’m not one to be scared away from upside by risk. In that vein, I don’t think I’m going out on a limb by saying that Albertos is the only prospect with potential superstar upside in the Cubbies system. Signed for $1.5 Million back in 2015, Albertos combines a plus-plus changeup, plus fastball, with plus control and command. A smooth athletic delivery, clean arm action, and advanced feel for his pitches give Albertos a tantalizing combo of pitchability and stuff, so rare with teenage pitching prospects. He worked primarily in the 93-94 range this season with his four-seamer, but ramped it up to 97 when needed. The action and arm speed of his changeup drive the double plus grades, and hint at his massive ceiling. Albertos needs to improve his breaking ball, and show he can throw the pitch for strikes. Outside of the development of his slider, the questions regarding Albertos really center around his ability to shoulder the workload expected of a front end starter. ETA: 2020
138) Tyler Mahle, RHP Reds| Age: 23 | Level: AAA | 2017 Stats: 10-7, 144.1 IP, 2.06 ERA, 0.96, 138 Ks, 30 Bb
A future mid-rotation starter with elite control, though it didn’t necessarily manifest itself during his cup of coffee in the majors. Mahle works with his four-seamer mostly in the low-90’s but can ramp it up to 95-96 when needed. His best secondary is his slider, though his changeup isn’t far behind. He threw a perfect game for AA Pensacola back in April of last year, which was the righty’s second no hitter in two seasons. Mahle doesn’t have the front-end stuff of some of the other arms that have passed through Cincinnati’s system in recent years, but he possesses a pitching acumen and understating far beyond his comrades. Strong Spring looks like it’s leading to a rotation spot. ETA: 2018
139) Yunior Severino, 2B/SS Twins | Age: 18 | Level: RK | 2017 Stats: .286/.345/.444, 3 HR, 27 RBI, 0 SB
A talented teenage switch hitter with plus bat speed, powerful wrists, and plus raw power, Severino is a favorite target of mine in first year player drafts. One of the top talents released in the Braves signing scandal, Severino has earned signing bonuses of $1.9M and $2.5M in consecutive signing periods. This speaks volumes, not only about his amateur pedigree, but the belief in his continued improvement during his 2017 stateside debut. I’ve heard some go as far as to say he’s a better player than Kevin Maitan. He’s a longways away, and is an all hit tool and power middle infielder with little to no speed. So, he must hit to make his way up the ladder, leaving him less margin for error. Sounds simple, but easier said than done. I’m putting my money on Severino, but I wouldn’t be the first(…or second). ETA: 2021
140) Evan White, 1B Mariners | Age: 21 | Level: Rk | 2017 Stats: .277/.345/.532, 3 HR, 12 RBI, 1 SB
White only played in 14 games for Everett of the Northwest League, but he did a ton of damage, slugging .532 with 12 RBI. The question that surrounded White last spring was his ability to hit for power. But he answered those questions by slugging .637, and doubling his homer total at Kentucky, before flashing nice power in his pro debut. A sneaky prospect upside-wise. Elite glove work, good contact, elite athleticism for a first baseman. ETA: 2019
141) Adam Haseley, OF Phillies | Age: 21 | Level: A | 2017 Stats: .284/.357/.405, 3 HR, 28 RBI, 6 SB
A top two-way talent at UVA, Haseley hit .390/.491/.659 with 14 homers and 10 steals in 223 at bats, while going 7-1 with a 3.58 ERA, and a 1.16 WHIP in 11 starts for the Cavaliers. The Phillies took Haseley with the 8th overall pick and signed him for $5.1 million. His two way days are behind him, as Haseley will play exclusively outfield going forward. While he doesn’t have one standout tool per se, he does have above average hitting, on base ability, power, speed, and glove-work. While Haseley might end up a player more along the lines of Adam Eaton, there is some 20/20 upside lurking in the profile. Reports following Haseley’s pro debut all discuss how gassed the outfielder looked during the summer, but it’s understandable, when you consider the demands of his two way duties at Virginia. A short quick swing, Haseley should do a good job getting around on pitches to the inside. He utilizes a sizable leg kick, but his smooth, athletic movements allow it all to come together beautifully. I really like Haseley’s swing. If he hits the ground running this year, and the reports of last season’s fatigue, prove to be just that, we might see Haseley in Philly come Summer 2019. ETA: 2019
142) Zack Collins, C White Sox | Age: 22 |Level: AA | 2017 Stats: .224/.370/.445, 19 HR, 53 RBI, 0 SB
Collins is easy to break down; power, on base, strikeouts. He’s the definition of a three outcome hitter, walking at an elite rate, but struggling to hit above .240. There’s 25-30 homer seasons in his bat, and he should get a huge boost in leagues that use OBP in place of average. Collins has done well to hone his catching skills and looks likely to stick behind the plate for now. ETA: 2019
143) Chance Adams, RHP Yankees | Age:21 | Level: AAA | 2017 Stats: 15-5, 150.1 IP, 2.45 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, 135 K, 58 Bb
A former fifth round pick, Adams is a converted college reliever who continues to pass each test with flying colors. He mixes a low to mid-90’s fastball with an above average slider, an average curve, and a work in progress changeup. Many see Adams as a mid-rotation type in the mold of Jordan Zimmermann, back when he was good, not now. Doesn’t miss tons of bats, but enough to be relevant, his control and movement play up his fastball. Unfortunately Adams faces the baptism by fire in the AL East. Stout pitcher’s build despite his height, somewhat violent delivery, but he looks like an MLB ready arm. ETA: 2018
144) Seuly Matias, OF Royals | Age: 19 | Level: Rk | 2017 Stats: .243/.297/.423, 7 HR, 27 RBI, 2 SB
A name constantly at the tip of my tongue whenever pressed for a potential 2018 helium breakout, Matias is a highly talented power bat with quick twitch tendencies, and legendary exit velocities. He led the AZL in homers back in 2016, and flashed improved restraint when faced with breaking stuff in 2017. Looks like your prototypical power hitting rightfielder if everything maxes out. Not that it matters for fantasy, but Seuly has a howitzer in the field, meaning he can stick in rightfield long term. Quick, Kenny Cashman, make me a Score style Rifleman card. Matias was signed for $2.25m back in 2015, and would have been a 2017 prep prospect had he been an American. ETA: 2021
145) Jeren Kendall, OF Dodgers | Age: 21 | Level: A | 2017 Stats: .253/.311/.444, 3 HR, 25 RBI, 9 SB
A 2017 first round pick, here’s what I wrote about Kendall in my Top 50 First Year Player Draft Rankings. “Kendall was the best athlete in the 2017 draft, with a enticing power/speed combo, and a big time college resume. What he lacks is plate discipline, and the type of contact ability you’d like to see from a well known college star. Enter the Dodgers and their lengthy track record of player development. He destroyed rookie ball for 5 games before making his full season ball debut with Great Lakes of the Midwest League. Kendall showed some of the enticing power and speed ability, but more often than not was frustrating. The biggest red flag outside his 27% K rate was his success rate on steals. He was caught 8 out of 13 times in A ball! That’s terrible for a first round college player known for his speed. It was totally out of character based on Kendall’s collegiate track record, he was only caught 16 times in 83 attempts at Vanderbilt. Hopefully this was a blip after a long season, and an aggressive assignment, but there has to be some concern. Ranked this late, because someone else might be drafting him.” ETA: 2020
146) Dane Dunning, RHP White Sox | Age: 22 | Level: A+ | 2017 Stats: 8-8, 144 IP, 2.94 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 168 Ks, 38 Bb
One of the players acquired in the Adam Eaton trade, Dunning had a really strong first full professional season and he did it somewhat under the radar. While researching this post I started to fall in love with Dunning a bit. Why? Because he combines two of the top qualities I look for in a pitcher, the ability to miss bats (12% SwStr%), and a 50%+ groundball rate. His arsenal is led by a low 90’s sinker, that he throws effectively to both righthanders and lefthanders, driving his elite 54.5% GB%. His best secondary offering is his 12-6 curveball, that I’ve seen described as a slider as well, and toward the end of the year was getting above average to plus grades. His changeup is a work in progress, which isn’t shocking for a converted college reliever. ETA: 2019
147) Freudis Nova, SS/3B Astros | Age: 17 | Level: Rk | 2017 Stats: .247/.342/.355, 4 HR, 16 RBI, 8 SB
An international bluebird that landed in the laps of the Astros, after an agreement with the Marlins deteriorated over a reported failed PED test. There’s a limited amount of reports on Nova, but the label of powerhitter with a defensive home on the leftside of the infield is a helluva drug. This is a very aggressive rank, but I’m banking on an organization with a track record of discovering talent, and a template I’m fond of. He’s not touching the majors for likely 4-5 more years, but there’s serious skills. ETA: 2022
148) Luis Medina, RHP Yankees | Age: 18 | Level: RK | 2017 Stats: 2-2, 38.2 IP, 5.35 ERA, 1.42 WHIP, 39 Ks, 24 Bb
A raw power arm with elite fastball velocity at just 18 years old. Medina is the type where he’s all stuff and projection over results at this point. The owner of three plus offerings already, a robust arsenal that consists of a true 80 grade fastball, with big velocity and run, an inconsistent, but filthy curveball, and a developed changeup that too flashes plus. There’s one problem, Medina has no idea where anything is going once it leaves his hand. Lacking command and control, Medina will look to refine his impressive repertoire in 2018. ETA: 2021
149) Kevin Merrell, SS Athletics | Age: 22 | Level: A- | 2017 Stats: .320/.362/.424, 2 HR, 9 RBI, 10 SB
The SAGNOF chasers guide to the 2017 MLB draft begins with Mr. Merrell. With plus plus speed, hitting ability and average power, Merrell has a shot to be a fantasy prospect darling. His lefthanded swing draws tons of Brett Gardner comps, see below… I’m not joking when I say I’ve read that comp in nearly every scouting report dating back a year ago on Merrell. There’s major questions about his ability to stick at short, but should find a home at second. ETA: 2020
150) Cal Quantrill, RHP Padres | Level: AA | 2017 Stats: 7-10 , 116 IP, 3.80 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, 110 K, 40 Bb
Is this too low a rank for Quantrill? On a real life list, I’d say absolutely, but for fantasy what’s his upside? Some see a front of the rotation starter, with his ability to pair a plus mid-90’s heater, with a plus-plus changeup, and two average breaking balls. I think he’s the prototypical number three starter with a low 8 k-rate. I’ve blown hot a cold on Quantrill over the years but I can’t help but ding his value when I see the results. He just has rarely dominated. Dominate Q, and I’ll move you 50+ spots. ETA: 2019
151) Joey Wentz, LHP Braves | Age: 20 | Level: A | 2017 Stats: 8-3, 131.2 IP, 2.60 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 152 Ks, 46 Bb
There’s been a ton of debate regarding the lefty, and whether he was as good as his statline says. It’s not too often that supplemental picks with the pedigree of Wentz win Pitcher of the Year for their respective league, and still manage to get side-eye from scouts. Wentz’s fastball is really the sticking point for many, as the velocity isn’t great, (here’s that velo obsession skewing evaluations of young arms again) but he commands it well, and it has nice plane. His changeup grades out as his best pitch, getting the only plus grade in his arsenal. His breaking ball which got above average grades coming into the draft, now gets fringe tags. Many prefer Bryse Wilson, and Tucker Davidson to Wentz, I’m not comfortable going that far yet. ETA: 2020
Find all of the 30 Minor League Previews, and Offseason Rankings on the Minor League Index
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