Yesterday I previewed the Rangers' lower division talent, which could potentially be rated high up in other organizations' top talent rankings, which is a testament to not only how well Jon Daniels has done to restock the Rangers' farm system, but also the renewed emphasis on the draft and on international signings. However, the near future isn't as promising, due to the Rangers' during the early part of the decade, which has resulted in the Rangers' current fortures. Things won't be pretty for the next year, but the future is bright, with many of these young players possibly ready to contribute in 2009. Now’s about the time where it’s time to evaluate the top prospects of the organization.
Rangers Top 20
1 – Eric Hurley (RHP)
DOB: 9/17/85
Drafted: 1st round, 2004, Florida High School
2007 Club: Oklahoma Redhawks (Triple A)
Height/Weight: 6-4/195
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: One of the Rangers’ two 2004 first rounders, Hurley remains the top prospect within the organization and he hasn’t disappointed. After dominating the Texas League, Hurley was promoted to Oklahoma, where he did well, but remained with the Redhawks for the remainder of the season. Hurley will likely get a shot to contend for a starting job in Spring Training and he may get it if he continues his progress.
The Good: Hurley’s got a true power arm and has yet to stumble at any level at which he's pitched. He has a fastball that sits in the 92 to 95 mph range that touches 97 later in the innings. He compliments this with a filthy slider that just moves through the strike zone. His Vulcan changeup has developed enough to give him a third useable pitch. His command and control are excellent and his mechanics are clean and his maturity level is excellent.
The Bad: Hurley also tends to elevate his fastball at times, leading to him getting hammered.
Projection: Fair. Hurley was pretty much ignored thanks to the DVD trio, but he’ll likely be better than any of that trio, and that includes Volquez, who may have a better arm.
What He Can Be: A number two starter
2007 Course Of Action: Hurley will be given a shot to win the fifth starters job in Spring Training. However, it’s more likely that the Rangers will allow him to return to Triple A for a little more polishing up before giving him a call in July or so, which also delays his service time clock.
2 – Chris Davis (3B)
DOB: 3/17/86
Drafted: 5th Round, 2006, Navarro Junior College (TX)
2008 Club: Frisco Roughriders (Double A)
Height/Weight: 6-3/210
Bats/Throws: L/R
The Skinny: After a solid year for the Spokane Indians, Davis was switched to third base by the Rangers and skipped a level, passing Clinton completely and heading to Bakersfield. What happened was that after a slow start, Davis began to mash, hitting for power as well as for average, even tying the California League’s all time hit record with 35 and finishing with a .297 average, 36 home runs, 118 RBI’s an on base percentage of .347 and a .945 OPS between Bakersfield and Frisco.
The Good: Davis has the best power potential in the system, Davis hits for power and lots of it. He’s also gotten rave reviews for his work ethic and it’s clear to see that he’s farther along than the Rangers could have hoped. He should also hit enough for a fair average. He’s got a strong arm, which makes many wonder if he could possibly play right field.
The Bad: In spite of reports that Davis was improving on his defense, he was still god awful and will likely end up at first base by the time he heads to the majors. Also, Davis continues to strikeout a whole lot, though he did shrink his strike zone upon reaching Frisco.
Projection: Average. Davis is closer to the majors than you think and given time, should be an average first baseman and a solid run producer in the heart of the order. He’s no Teixeira, but he’s going to be very good.
What He Can Be: A monster first baseman
2007 Course Of Action: Davis went to the Arizona Fall League to work on his defense and plate discipline and will likely get a non-roster invite to Spring Training. He’ll likely be back in Frisco this coming year, but could finish in the Majors if he keeps mashing.
3 – Taylor Teagarden (C)
DOB: 12/21/83
Drafted: 3rd round, 2005, University Of Texas
2008 Club: Frisco Roughriders (Double A)
Height/Weight: 6-1/200
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Teagarden has resurrected himself this season thanks to his finally staying healthy and his offensive abuse of the California and Texas Leagues. Originally projected to be a first rounder based on his defense alone, super agent (Satan) Scott Boras’ affiliation resulted in Teagarden falling to Texas in the third round, making him an absolute steal now that the 2005 draft has had time to percolate.
The Good: Teagarden’s defense, as I said, was thought to be first round caliber and he is probably a future Gold Glover in the making. He calls a good game, handles pitchers well, and blocks the plate well. His arm strength has also appeared to return as well. What’s come alive is his bat. Teagarden always had outstanding plate discipline and is very patient. He draws a lot of walks and can be an OBP machine. What has changed is that his power has blossomed, as he hit combined to hit .310 with 27 dingers between Bakersfield and Frisco. There is thought that he could hit for average while supplying power later in the lineup. That’s a hell of a thing to get from your catcher.
The Bad: The biggest problem is that Teagarden struggled to make contact at times, resulting in his 128 strikeouts. There are some durability issues to clear up, as Teagarden was limited in his games behind the plate, splitting his games between catching and DH, but other than that, that should be it.
Projection: Fair. Teagarden is where he should be and is going to create a uncomfortable situation in Arlington this year. Teagarden is potentially a franchise catcher. That’s fine and good, except for one problem. The Rangers have a franchise catcher in Jarrod Saltalamacchia.
What He Can Be: A Gold Glove catcher that’s dangerous in the middle of the lineup.
2007 Course Of Action: Teagarden will begin the year in Frisco and will eventually make his way to Oklahoma before getting a look at the end of the season. He’s nearly ready and what we could see in Texas is a Catcher/Designated Hitter tandem designed to keep both catchers’ bats in the lineup, while allowing them rest.
The Skinny: After a satisfactory performance up in Short Season Spokane, ####r was retained in extended spring training to allow him to enter on a strict innings limit program in order to allow him to be able to build up arm strength and endurance. ####r was promoted in May and has really taken off since then, partnering up with Clinton ace Omar Poveda (before he was promoted to Bakersfield) to lead the Lumberkings to the post-season.
The Good: ####r’s similar to Lincecum in that he’s a big arm in a small package and has drawn a lot of similarities for Billy Wagner. ####r has a polished delivery and he has three good pitches, a fastball that sits in the mid 90’s, hitting 97-98 at times, along with a hammer curve and a developing changeup. His control over his pitches is excellent.
The Bad: ####r is far too dependant on his fastball and doesn’t mix his pitches well. He also needs to improve his command.
Projection: High. ####r was challenged by the Rangers, who though that he was far enough along to skip a level after all of the high school competition he went through and they were right. ####r also has another motivation for himself to succeed. He’s promised that he would arrive in Arlington no latter than 2009.
What He Can Be: A middle of the rotation starter or a power closer.
2007 Course Of Action:####r will probably be retained in extended Spring Training for a bit, but I’m not sure if it’s a good idea to promote him to Bakersfield just yet, judging by how dangerous the California League is. However, ####r has nothing more to prove in Clinton, so it’s likely that he will be with the Blaze come April.
5 – Michael Main (RHP)
DOB: 12/14/88
Drafted: 1st Round, 2007, Florida High School
2008 Club: Clinton Lumberkings (Low A)
Height/Weight: 6-2/170
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Rated Baseball America's top 15-year-old in the nation in 2004,Main’s stock fell in 2006 when he battled tendonitis in his rotator cuff, but he was able to come back strong and become the 24th overall player selected in June. Main signed quickly and was assigned to the Arizona League Rangers, where he performed better than expected and was subsequently sent to the Spokane Indians, where he also had a fairly good year.
The Good: Main is an outstanding athlete that was considered to be a first rounder as a outfielder, but the Rangers drafted him as a pitcher, even though they let him DH a bit in the AZL. His best pitch is his fastball, which has been touching 94 mph and can hit 97, with late movement. Main also has a good curveball, with lots of movement and sinking action, and it’s already being rated a plus pitch. His mechanics are pretty clean and many feel he draws comparisons to Tim Hudson.
The Bad: Main has some trouble with his chnageup. Though it clocks up to 84, it tends to flatten out at times and become very hittable, though many feel it will be a solid pitch. He’s also still rather unpolished and needs to tone down his delivery a bit, as some feel he has a bit much in terms of effort in it.
Projection: Very High. Though fellow first rounder Blake Beaven was held in higher regard before the draft, Main has done nothing but dominate since he signed earlier and is now at least a year ahead of Beaven in terms of development and goodwill with the fans. Main is a prime example of another high ceiling prospect in a suddenly stocked system. Interestingly enough, he was also regarded as a first round talent as a centerfielder, but the Rangers prefer his future on the mound instead.
What He Can Be: A front of the rotation starter.
2008 Course Of Action: Main did better than expected, dominating the Arizona Rookie League and heading to do good things in the Northwestern League. Thus, with Main now having elevated himself to the next level, the Rangers will hold Main in extended before sending him to make his full season debut with the Lumberkings in Clinton.
6 – Blake Beavan (RHP)
DOB: 1/17/89
Drafted: 1st Round, 2007, Texas High School
2008 Club: Spokane Indians (Short Season)
Height/Weight: 6-7/210
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Beavan went 9-2, 0.19 for Irving High this spring, striking out 139 hitters in 73.1 innings and walking only four. On March 6, he struck out 18 in a perfect game against Irving MacArthur. Last summer he pitched for Team USA in the quarterfinals at the IBAF World Junior Championships, and pitched a 11 strikeout, complete-game shutout of Cuba front of a crowd that included 40 armed guards and members of Fidel Castro's family. However, negotiations grew slightly contentious as Beaven wanted a large signing bonus. In the end, Beaven signed for roughly slot money and began his Rangers career.
The Good: Beaven is a flamethrower, pure and simple. He fires a mid 90’s fastball that touches 96 and commanded his fastball to both sides of the plate extremely well, rare for a pitcher his age and size. His slider clocks in the low 80’s and touches 84 with good break. It has the potential to be a plus pitch. His changeup has the same velocity and overall, he’s got good poise on the mound. All in all, he’s got the makings on an intimidating as hell starter.
The Bad: Beavan has a funky delivery, not unlike Tim Lincecum where he catapults the ball instead of pitching it. It may need to be refined. Beaven’s secondary pitches are also developing and right now are raw, though they could be plus in time. He’s also an arrogant son of a #### as well.
Projection: Very High. Though there is more risk with Beavan than past Rangers draft picks, Beavan’s also got high potential and could be an ace, provided that he doesn’t let his confidence screw him over.
What He Can Be: A Number 1 starter.
2008 Course Of Action: Beaven’s career started late, so he’ll likely be retained in extended, where the Rangers will likely work with him on his delivery and try not to have it as complex as it is right now. Afterwards, the Rangers will likely send him to Spokane, where they feel he’s ready enough to face the competition there in the more advanced Northwestern League.
7 – Elvis Andrus (SS)
DOB: 8/6/88
Signed: Venezuela, 2005 (Braves)
2008 Club: Frisco Roughriders (Double A)
Height/Weight: 6-0/185
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: The Rangers just missed out on signing Andrus when he was a free agent signed out of Venezuela by the Braves, but they got him anyway when Andrus became one of the main pieces of the Mark Teixeira Deal. Andrus is regarded to be one of the best players in terms of tools that could potentially blow up into something huge. So far, it hasn’t happened, but you have to keep his age in mind when evaluating him. After hitting.295/.377/.398 in the Gulf Coast League in 2005, Andrus was promoted to full season ball as a 17 year old and held his own. While he struggled early on, the trade did him well, as he put up some nice numbers once he arrived in California to join the Blaze.
The Good: A toolbox, Andrus is already regarded to be a solid defender, as he has excellent hands, range and arm. He’s quick and steals bases rather well. His body also projects some power. He has good plate discipline and with time, could develop into a disciplined hitter who works the count. All in all, it’s a solid package.
The Bad: He’s rough offensively, though his numbers improved once he moved to the California League once moved to Texas. He hit for a mediocre average, no power, few walks, and he needs to hone his base stealing. To put it bluntly, he has to gain strength further harness his hitting ability in order to become anything more than a back of the lineup starter.
Projection: Very High. Again, he's very young, and some in the industry see superstar potential. There are also some that see him to be another Joaquin Arias, but if he develops as projected, the Rangers will have a potential superstar on their hands.
What He Can Be: An All-Star if the tools turn into offensive performance.
2008 Course Of Action: The Rangers have clearly bought into his Bakersfield numbers and will have him in Frisco to start they ear. Honestly, I felt that he should have remained in Bakersfield for another year to allow him to continue to develop. This sounds more like he’s being promoted to allow Marcus Lemon to go to Bakersfield, though I wouldn’t count on it.
8 – German Duran (2B)
DOB: 8/3/84
Drafted: 6th Round, 2006, Texas Christian University
2008 Club: Oklahoma Red Hawks (Triple A)
Height/Weight: 5-10/185
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Duran has burst onto the scene of a lot of prospect radars this year, though I had him pegged as a solid prospect last year during my Rangers Top 30, where I believe he was 13. He hit .284 last year at Bakersfield, while hitting 13 homers and 72 RBIs, hitting as a shortstop. After a move to second base, Duran had another good season, hitting .300 with 22 Homers, 84 RBI’s, and posting Slugging And OPS’ of .525 and .877 respectively. All in all, Duran is one of the better second base prospects in the minors and is rising fast.
The Good: Built like a fire hydrant, Duran has some solid power, generated by his quick bat speed and stocky build, as well as some speed on the basepaths. He kills left handers, but isn’t a platoon liability as he hit well against right handers. His defense is good and he’s worked at short, second, third, the outfield corners as well as first base, leading one to believe that the Rangers are going to make Duran into a super utility man along the lines of Chone Figgins, only with less speed and more power. He’s also been remarkably durable and his work ethic is excellent.
The Bad: Duran needs to work on his plate discipline, as he doesn’t draw many walks. There is also some question as to what his permanent position would be in the majors. Many see him as a potential everyday utilityman, though I do think eventually, he’s likely the successor to Hank Blalock at third base.
Projection: Fair. Duran is rapidly progressing up the Rangers’ totem pole of prospects and is starting to get some recognition for his abilities and accomplishments. The Rangers are beginning to experiment with Duran, as I said, as a utility man, and I think he’d do very well there, as he’ll probably be able to play every position except for catcher and centerfield for the Rangers by the time he’s ready, and would allow Texas to give Michael Young some days off as DH without losing offense at short.
What He Can Be: An everyday player without a set position
2007 Course Of Action: Now that the AFL is over and Duran has gotten work all across the diamond, it’s almost a given he’ll be given a shot at the Rangers’ utility job during Spring Training with the big league club. It’s more likely though, the Rangers will send Duran to Oklahoma for some last minute polishing up and to give him a chance to play everyday. He’ll probably stay down all year unless someone gets hurt, then he’ll be called up in September for good.
9 – Matt Harrison (LHP)
DOB: 8/16/85
Drafted: 3rd Round, 2003, North Carolina High School
2008 Club: Frisco Roughriders (Double A)
Height/Weight: 6-5/205
Bats/Throws: L/L
The Skinny: Harrison was rated as one of the Braves’ top prospect and he was the hold-up in the deal being announced, due to a velocity drop that prompted the Rangers to check into his injury history. Texas checked him out and decided that his injury wasn’t a long term issue and, when given a few other prospects in return, pulled the trigger. Harrison didn’t pitch for the Roughriders, but he was excellent in Arizona Fall League action and has elevated his stock back to what it was.
The Good: A big lefty, Harrison has good stuff, with a fastball that clocks in the low 90s and has touched 93-95 at times. His curve and changeup are both plus pitches, giving him an excellent repertoire to work with. He induces groundballs and keeps the ball in the park. All in all, it’s what you would hope for in a prospect.
The Bad: Harrison doesn’t miss many bats and can be a bit too hittable at times. As a result, he’s going to be consistent, but he’s never going to be a dominant starter.
Projection: Average. Harrison needs to work more on refining his stuff, but the potential is there for him to rise quickly and become an option for Texas late in the season if they choose to go that route.
What He Can Be: A Number 3 or 4 Starter.
2008 Course Of Action: Harrison is likely headed back for Frisco, but he will be up in Oklahoma at some point in the season. Potentially, the Rangers could have at least two of their top starting pitching prospects fighting for time in the big league level, which creates an enviable problem for the Rangers.
10 – Omar Poveda (RHP)
DOB: 9/28/87
Signed: 2004, Venezuela
2008 Club: Bakersfield Blaze (High A)
Height/Weight: 6-4/200
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Poveda first became a name when at the age of 18, gave up only 1 run in 5 innings during a spot start in Frisco in 2006, but his record was ugly after going 4-13 with a 4.88 ERA in at Low A Clinton. However, he did fan 133 while walking 37, a signal of better things to come. Much of this can be blamed on an awful team as well as Poveda competing against prospects far ahead of his age group (the average Midwestern league age is 21).
The Good: Poveda’s fastball originally only clocked into the high 90’s, but he was sitting in the 92-94 mph range in Bakersfield (which absolutely has the shittiest ballpark I’ve ever been to.) His changeup is a plus pitch and he also throws a slider that is coming along nicely. There is also a rumor that he may throw a curveball. He also has very good command and control.
The Bad: Many feel that Poveda just doesn’t have the ace quality stuff to match his hype. He also tends to fall in love with the changeup and will overthrow it at times.
Projection: Moderate. Poveda has shown a great deal of improvement and has been downright impressive when you consider where he’s at and his age. And the fact that he’s still growing only adds to the total package. The problem is that he needs to learn to mix his pitches better and should learn to do this as he gets older.
What He Can Be: A Number Three Starter
2007 Course Of Action: Poveda will likely return to Bakersfield next season, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he ended the year in Frisco in time for a playoff push.
11 – John Mayberry Jr. (RF)
DOB: 12/21/83
Drafted: 1st round, 2005, Stanford University
2008 Club: Frisco Roughriders (Double A)
Height/Weight: 6-6/230
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Mayberry was promoted early on to Bakersfield, but was forced up to Frisco due to injury and remained there the rest of the season. He belted 30 bombs total, but also finished the season hitting .235 with 126 strikeouts.
The Good: Mayberry has light tower power that would make him a 30 home run threat in the majors. He’s one of the best athletes in the system and has some decent speed on the bases. He’s got a true right fielder’s arm and has a solid approach at the plate.
The Bad: Mayberry’s swing is long, which is why he racks up the strikeouts. He still makes some mistakes while in the outfield, taking bad reads on balls. Mayberry also tends to get exploited by more advanced pitchers, which is something that is alarming to say the least. Ultimately, it’s the worry about his strikeouts that gets people, though K’s have done nothing to stop Ryan Howard and Adam Dunn.
Projection: Fair. Mayberry needs to take a big step forward this year and continue to develop. Texas is feeling that they need to justify his selection, especially when you consider the guy management wanted to draft, Jacoby Ellsbury, is now in Boston.
What He Can Be: A power-hitting outfielder that has trouble hitting for a decent average and strikes out a whole lot.
2007 Course Of Action: Mayberry will return to Frisco to begin the year, and hopefully, he’ll give the Rangers reason to promote him to Oklahoma, with a potential big league call up in his future.
12 – Julio Borbon (CF)
DOB: 2/20/86
Drafted: 1st Round (S), 2007, University Of Tennessee
2008 Club: Clinton Lumberkings (Low A)
Height/Weight: 6-1/190
Bats/Throws: L/L
The Skinny: Regarded to be the top college outfielder, Borbon missed time due to an ankle injury and as a result hurt his draft stock because he simply wasn’t able to perform at the top of his game. However, many felt that Texas, which needed a centerfielder of the future, would draft him to fill a need, perhaps even with their top pick. Borbon was drafted, but in the supplemental round, and after some tough negotiations, finally signed.
The Good: Borbon was largely drafted because of his best tool, speed, which he incorporates into all facets of his game plan. He’s an excellent defender and covers the outfield well and he’s got excellent outfield instincts as well. He can steal bases and can beat out bloopers for singles. He has shown some power in the past and is an excellent bunter, allowing him to advance the baserunners.
The Bad: Borbon’s arm is below average, but should be just enough for center. He likely won’t hit more than the low double digits in terms of Home Runs as a pro and his plate discipline needs some work.
Projection: Average. Borbon needs work on several facets of his game, plate discipline being the one that is needed the most. He also may have a little pop coming in the future, depending on how well he develops. All in all, Borbon should be a starter, similar to Juan Pierre that can be a productive player in his early career, but could be below average in value once he hits free agency.
What He Can Be: An average centerfield that can function as a leadoff man.
2008 Course Of Action: After a disappointing debut with the Spokane Indians, Borbon will likely be sent to Full Season Ball in Clinton, where he should remain throughout the year. In the meantime, Texas will likely look for a temporary stopgap in order to allow Borbon to eventually take over.
13 – Engel Beltre (CF)
DOB: 11/01/89
Signed: 2006, Dominican Republic (Red Sox)
2008 Club: Spokane Indians (Short Season)
Height/Weight: 6-1/169
Bats/Throws: L/L
The Skinny: Beltre was one of the two top prizes that Boston signed during the 2006 International Signing Period. Signing for for $600,000, Beltre showed lots of promise during his stint with the GCL Red Sox. The Red Sox were reluctant to give him up in the Eric Gagne trade, but eventually included him, only to see Gagne begin to flame out and Beltre begin to blossom.
The Good: Beltre is loaded with tools, the biggest of which is power potential. He’s loaded with power already and it’s going to be better as he gains mass and matures. He’s also got good speed, a strong arm and is developing plate discipline in ####s. He makes solid reads on the ball in the outfield and many feel that, even if he loses speed as he matures, he could actually have the tools to remain in center. All in all, this is impressive for a kid who just started playing pro-ball.
The Bad: The only real downside on Beltre is that he’s just so raw, so he’s going to be years away. However, Ranger fans have learned to wait and should be following his career with great interest.
Projection: Crazy High. Beltre is drawing comparisons to Darryl Strawberry, a roid-free Barry Bonds and Ken Griffey Jr. That’s a huge ceiling and it’s too early to tell, but watching his progress since he arrived to the Rangers makes me feel that those comparisons are, so far, kinda justified. We’ll see what happens. Clearly, however, outside of maybe Font and Castillo, Beltre far exceeds any of the Rangers’ international signings in the past few years.
What He Can Be: An All-Star Caliber Outfielder.
2008 Course Of Action: Beltre will be held back in Extended with several of the top prospects before he’s sent to Spokane. With Beltre still raw, there’s no reason to rush him and he should be the Indians’ everyday centerfielder.
14 – Wilmer Font (RHP)
DOB: 5/24/1990
Signed: 2006, Venezuela
2008 Club: Spokane Indians (Short Season)
Height/Weight: 6-4/210
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: The big prize out of the 2006 International Signing Period, Texas has high hopes for Font and decided that he would be best suited for pitching during the Arizona Rookie League, where he showed both dominance and inconsistency during his first season of professional stateside ball. Still, the numbers are impressive, even more so when you consider his age and the fact that he has gone up against some college aged players in that league.
The Good: The Rangers love the arm strength on Font and he has a good size and frame to project a power pitcher’s build. He throws already in the mid 90’s and showed a lot of poise.
The Bad: Font is as raw of a product as can be. His command and control need to be refined some for him to continue his success. Both of his breaking pitches need refining.
Projection: Very High. Font is one of the prospects the organization really likes in their minor league system and many within the front office are closely monitoring his progressing, seeing him and Fabio Castillo to be some of the crown jewels in the Rangers’ minor league system.
What He Can Be: Number Two Starter
2007 Course Of Action: Font will likely be retained in extended before the Rangers decide to likely send him to the Spokane Indians, similar to what Fabio Castillo went through.
15 – Thomas Diamond (RHP)
DOB: 4/6/83
Drafted: 1st Round, 2004, University of New Orleans
2008 Club: Bakersfield Blaze (High A)
Height/Weight: 6-3/245
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Once thought to be the Rangers’ answer to Roger Clemens (I’m dead #### serious), Diamond hasn’t lived up to the hype that followed the “DVD” trio through the minors. Tommy John surgery wiped out his 2007 season and because of all the recent draft picks and talent acquired via trades and international signings, Diamond suddenly finds himself with a much diminished stock, without him doing anything to drop it.
The Good: Blessed with a power pitchers’ frame, Diamond throws a powerful fastball that sits in the 92-94 mpg range that hits 97 and has good movement. He couples this with an excellent changeup, thought to be the best in the organization. He’s also a competitor on the mound that is not afraid to go headhunting as well, hence the Clemens comparisons (though Vicente Padilla is another.)
The Bad: Command is going to be an issue for a little while, but another thing to keep in mind is that Diamond has never had a usable breaking ball, which is why he’s tinkering with a slider, which may or may not be a potential third pitch. This has led to many wondering if he’s destined for relief work.
Projection: Low. Diamond can remain a starter if he masters a slider and begins to bring back his command and control, but to be quite honest, it might be time to leave him in the pen for good.
What He Can Be: A nasty closer, potentially like Brad Lidge BP (Before Pujols)
2007 Course Of Action: I expect Diamond, after a stint in extended, will likely be started on what was the Volquez plan, where he’ll begin the year in Bakersfield and gradually make his way up to Oklahoma by the end of the year. Provided he isn’t worked too hard, the Rangers could call him up in September to help out in the pen and get a better gauge as to where he’s at.
16 – Neftali Feliz (RHP)
DOB: 5/2/88
Signed: 2005, Dominican Republic (Braves)
2008 Club: Clinton Lumberkings (Low A)
Height/Weight: 5-11/175
Bats/Throws: S/R
The Skinny: Feliz was another highly touted young arm that was received from the Braves in the Mark Teixeira deal. He was a beast in relief for the Indians last year and should be a name you should keep an eye on.
The Good: Feliz throws one of the best fastballs in the minors, sitting in the 93-95 mph range while hitting 98 several times. He often draws comparisons to Yankee Closer Mariano Rivera and he has some idea of a breaking ball (throws a slider and changeup.)
The Bad: There are lots of flamethrowing teenagers that have flamed out spectacularly, and there is a lot of work to do with Feliz. His secondary pitches are still a work in progress. Command and control also need to be harnessed if he’s to progress.
Projection: Very High. Feliz is a teenager with a lightning arm who could turn into a frontline starter or a dominant closer. He’s got a sizable gap between what he is and what he can be, a gap the size of the state of New Mexico, but he should be exciting to watch.
What He Can Be: A Power Starter Or A Power Closer.
2008 Course Of Action: Feliz, to put it quite simply, has one of the best arms in the system and is one of many Rangers minor leaguers to keep an eye on. I’ll be watching with particular interest. The Rangers are going to put him the rotation, so he’s likely going to be another member of what should be a talented Clinton rotation.
17 – Max Ramirez (C)
DOB: 10/11/84
Signed: 2002, Venezuela (Braves)
2008 Club: Bakersfield Blaze (High A)
Height/Weight: 5-11/170
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Originally signed by the Braves, Ramirez has been tossed back and forth in an exchange of hot potato by several organizations. First, he was sent to the Indians in exchange for the departed Bob Wickman, and then he came to Texas in exchange for Kenny Lofton during Cleveland’s stretch run. Ramirez was subsequently assigned to Bakersfield, where he was able to fill the hole left in the lineup by the departure of Taylor Teagarden.
The Good: Ramirez is one of the best pure bats in the system, as he’s been able to hit for average, draw walks and now, power. He has great plate discipline and has managed to maintain his numbers throughout his minor league career.
The Bad: Ramirez is thought to have an overcomplicated swing, which creates some worries if he’ll be able to produce in the majors. His arm is average, but his receiving skills are still below average, though there are worse catchers out there.
Projection: Average. Ramirez has come a long way and is still improving. I think the questions about his offense are unfounded, as he’s done well and has a track record of performance and as long as his defense is okay, he could be a potential Victor Martinez or Michael Barrett style catcher. I also think that, should the backstop position not be enough, he could be athletic enough to move to a corner infield or outfield position, as well as being a DH.
What He Can Be: An offensive minded catcher.
2008 Course Of Action: Ramirez’s progress will be held back thanks to the progress of Taylor Teagarden. Hence, I think he’ll be back in Bakersfield to start the year, and will get the call to Frisco as soon as Teagarden packs his bags for Oklahoma City.
18 – Beau Jones (LHP)
DOB: 8/25/86
Drafted: 1st Round (S), 2005, Louisiana High School (Atlanta)
2008 Club: Bakersfield Blaze (High A)
Height/Weight: 6-1/195
Bats/Throws: L/L
The Skinny: Acquired from the Braves in the Mark Teixeira trade, Jones seems like almost an afterthought. Jones had a decent run in the early minors before he was torched when promoted to Myrtle Beach (High A). Demoted back to Rome (Low A), the Braves converted him to relief work before the trade. Afterward, Texas tried him out in the rotation again, bringing out much improved results for Low A Clinton.
The Good: Jones is a nifty little pitching prospect that kind of reminds me of Zach Phillips, but with a little more velocity. Jones has excellent stuff, with a low-90s fastball that hits 96 with plenty of zip and a curveball that is already considered to be an out pitch…
The Bad: …it’s been his command that has given him issues in a past, which is a big reason why he struggled in High A. The changeup, what Jones needs to be a superb starter, is a work in progress.
Projection: Moderate. Even if he doesn't stick as a starter, which I think he can, he could wind up being another C.J. Wilson type power reliever, which really isn’t a bad thing really. All in all, the Rangers got yet another high-ceiling player in a system that added plenty.
What He Can Be: A power lefty, though if it’s in the rotation or pen is yet to be determined.
2008 Course Of Action: Emboldened by his success as a starter, Jones will likely head to High A again. He is definitely a candidate to breakout and could be the player that the Braves may regret to give up.
19 – John Whittleman (3B)
DOB: 2/11/87
Drafted: 2nd Round, 2005, Texas High School
Likely 2007 Club: Clinton (Low A)
Height/Weight: 6-2/195
Bats/Throws: L/R
The Skinny: Another slugging third baseman, Whittleman was forced to repeat at Low-A after a miserable season in which he hit .227/.313/.343 for the Lumberkings. The repeat did him good, as Whittleman blossomed, hitting around .270 while sitting among the league leaders in various categories and earning a spot on the Futures Game roster for the US Team. Whittleman was subsequently promoted to Bakersfield and while he quieted down some, he still looks to be very promising.
The Good: Whittleman is perhaps the best hitting prospect in the minor. He’s got a patient approach at the plate and is able to draw his own share of walks. He’s got the ability to wait for the right pitch to drive. What has blossomed for him this season has been his power, as Whittleman’s power numbers spiked, possibly because his body is maturity as well.
The Bad: Tapping into his power potential has created some problems for Whittleman, who has gotten into the habit of pulling the ball instead of just focusing on putting it into play, resulting in higher strikeout numbers. The bigger issue is that his defense has begun to suffer, as he lacks accuracy in spite of his strong arm and he’s developed stone hands, resulting in an increased number of errors.
Projection: Moderate. Whittleman’s got solid potential and has re-established himself as a solid prospect. The question is whether or not Whittleman is this bad at third base or if he simply needs to be taught the fundamentals of the hot corner. He’s got time to improve himself, but many still feel he’s going to be a first baseman in the end.
What He Can Be: Hank Blalock, circa 2004.
2007 Course Of Action: Whittleman is heading to Bakersfield, where he should take advantage of some of the bandboxes in that league to put up some gaudy numbers.
20 –Fabio Castillo (RHP)
DOB: 2/19/89
Signed: 2005, Dominican Republic
2008 Club: Spokane Indians (Short Season)
Height/Weight: 6-1/190
Bats/Throws: R/R
The Skinny: Castillo was the crown jewel of the International Signing Period and he held his own at Spokane against advanced competition, with most of the league made up of college hitters.
The Good: Castillo has a fastball that clocks in the mid 90’s and has reached as high as 97. He compliments it with an outstanding slider, which is a solid out pitch that was making hitters swing and miss in Minor League Spring Training, according to Jaime Newberg.
The Bad: Like all youngsters, the durability isn’t there yet and he needs to continue improving his command and control until he’s got it down to a science. His changeup is currently very inconsistent.
Projection: High. Castillo is young and he’s still got a lot of growing up to do, but everything depends on him just getting innings in and working on his craft.
What He Can Be: A Number Two Starter
2007 Course Of Action:The Rangers know they have a talented arm in Castillo, but they are going to be very careful with him, as they don’t want to risk him being damaged by aggressively promoting him, like they did with Edinson Volquez. Castillo will likely be headed back to Spokane after beginning the year in extended once again.
Final Analysis
This is a stocked system and should be churning out talent very shortly. The Rangers do have a potentially talented core at the top with C.J. Wilson, Brandon McCarthy, Josh Hamilton, Ian Kinsler and Jarrod Saltalamacchia emerging as the core of youngsters around the Franchise, Michael Young. Though the Rangers may be bad in 2008, 2009 and 2010 may be quite different, with many of these young pitchers and positional players ready to do some damage.
Being in third place, especially considering how bleak things were the last time the Rangers Report was posted, is very awesome. Hope it lasts.
Arizona Fall League Breakdown
The Rangers announced their candidates for the Arizona Fall League, which begins play on October 9th. Here’s the list of candidates:
Josh Rupe (RHP) – The organization still feels that Rupe an become a excellent starter with time, but Rupe hasn’t been able to stay healthy. Frankly, this is looking like it’s make or break time for Rupe, else he may risk being traded to a team as a reliever.
Kea Kometani (RHP) – Kometani is another intriguing arm in the Rangers’ system that will be playing in hopes of earning a 40 man spot, as I think he is going to be Rule V eligible this off-season. Kometani was converted to relief this past season and was excellent there. If he can be stretched out to a starter again, that would be even better.
Matt Harrison (LHP) – One of the big prizes in the Mark Teixeira deal, Harrison is regarded to be a good lefty pitcher that can eat up innings and keep his team in games…or a left handed Joe Blanton, to use a comparison. Anyhow, Harrison missed the rest of the season after the trade because of injury, so his assignment means that the Rangers will be looking to see how his recovery has come along.
Danny Ray Herrera (LHP) - A short lefty, Herrera is a quality relief pitching prospect that could be an above average setup man. He got hammered late in the season, so the Rangers are likely sending him to Arizona to work on some things.
Joaquin Arias (SS) - Arias is probably the most disappointing prospect out of all these listed. Once throught to be a superstar, Arias is now being viewed to be a utilityman prospect, not at all what the Rangers hoped he'd be when they selected him over Robinson Cano in the Alex Rodriguez trade.
John Mayberry Jr. (RF) – Mayberry has been brought about very slowly by the Rangers, and he hasn’t nearly shown the progress that many have felt he should have shown by now. While he can hit for power, Mayberry’s
Chris Davis (3B) – Davis has recently been added to the AFL roster, but don’t expect to see too much of him though. As a “taxi squad” member, he is only available to play Wednesday and Saturday.
Taylor Teagarden (C) – Teagarden is likely going to be sent to the AFL to get some work in on his defense. Don’t expect to see too much of him though. As a “taxi squad” member, he is only available to play Wednesday and Saturday.
German Duran (2B) – A prospect that most prospect heads whiffed on (But not me, as I listed Duran on my top 30 Rangers Prospects) Teagarden is likely going to be sent to the AFL to get some work in on his defense. Don’t expect to see too much of him though. As a “taxi squad” member, he is only available to play Wednesday and Saturday.
Morisato's Minor League Positiional And Pitching Players Of The Year
Pitcher - Eric Hurley (RHP).
Hurley has done nothing but perform since he began the year and after dominating the Texas League, he was promoted to Oklahoma, where he held his own. Hurley is likely entering his last year on the farm and could be in Arlington as soon as June.
Also Considered...
Omar Poveda (RHP) - The big Venezuelan was the Lumberkings Ace before he was promoted to Bakersfield. All in all, he made great strides and could be on the way up, especially since his stuff has gained velocity.
Kasey ####r (LHP) - Last year's number one pick has done nothing but domiante. While he's been wild at times, he's also been very good. It should be interesting to see what he does in Bakersfield next year.
Zach Philips (LHP) - Another Bakersfield bound lefty, Philips has quietly had an excellent season and helped provide Clinton with another solid lefty in the middle of the rotation.
Brendan Garr (RHP) - Once thought to be an intruiguing arm, Garr is looking more and more like a bonafide closer candidate in the future.
Michael Main (RHP) - Main has been very good and has vaulted himself higher in the eyes of the organization than local boy Blake Beaven.
Positional Player - Chris Davis (3B)
Davis has rapidly turned into Texas' top positional player and power hitter. While the Strikeout totals and defensive errors are a bit of a concern, the power is real and in time, he could turn into a beast at first base.
Also Considered...
Taylor Teagarden (C) - Teagarden lost a year due to Tommy John, but has since returned to show that his Gold Glove defense is still intact. Even better, his bat has come to life and he's shown legitimate power to go with his high walk totals. It could get interesting a can couple of years between Teagarden and Saltalamacchia, a nice problem to have.
John Whittleman (3B) - Another talented third baseman, Whittleman was the Rangers' American Rep in the Future's Game and has made enormous strides with the bat. The power has come in as expected, though it has resulted in a strikeout increase. Still, all in all, Whittleman is looking very different from how he finished a year ago.
German Duran (2B) - A sleeper candidate, Duran has emerged to be one of the most unheralded middle infield prospects in the minor leagues. He's shown good range and solid hands along with a lot of thunder in his bat. Potentially, he's Jeff Kent, but without the stone hands.
Brandon Boggs (CF) - Boggs has also blossomed into a potential centerfielder of the future. While his age somewhat clouds his achievements, his numbers are good and should be taken seriously.
Potential Free Agent Musings
All signs are pointing for Torii Hunter to possibly head to Texas in the future via free agency, especially since he wants a five year deal worth $70 million. While I would be up for potentially sacrificing the second rounder for a need, Hunter isn't it.
Kosuke Fukudome, on the other hand, I'd be very interested in bringing over. The bat is legitimate and he'd be able to play centerfield for a couple of years, until first rounder Julio Borbon is ready, then he'd be able to slide over into a outfield corner. Fukudome would not only allow the Rangers to potentially move into the Asian Market, but also wouldn't cost a second round pick, allowing the Rangers to be able to still splurge in the draft.
Another Option I'd consider is possibly Mike Cameron, who would also be a short term solution that wouldn't break the bank, plus could see his numbers improve leaving Petco Park.
As for current Rangers, Brad Wilkerson and Jamey Wright, I would be okay bringing them back, a different stance then I had a couple of weeks ago. However, I would bring them back only on the condition that Wilkerson plays only first base and that Wright remains in the pen, where he's been...surprisingly competent.
I'm a long time Texas Rangers fan who has come to love baseball as a whole. I recently began this blog as a way for me to showcase my opinions, provide some analysis, and hopefully entertain those who happen to stumble upon my little soapbox online. I'll toss in an NFL, College, or NBA nugget every now and then. Enjoy the posts everyone, and yes, getting a little love in a Deadspin post was probably the highlight of the year, blogwise.
Do You Have Comment You Don't Want All To See? Just Want To Talk Baseball? Email Me at morisatos_blo g AT yahoo.com. Email's edited to keep away the Spam.
