With Jack Splat on the block, GW thought it would lead off its minor league roundup with a look at the farm's shortstop crop. The suits loaded up on young SS's in the 2008 draft, and that alone should tell you all you need to know about the system's depth at that position.
Luis Cruz - He's the fast riser among young Buc infielders. Cruz was a surprise call-up in September, and hit .224 in 22 games after a blazing start at the plate. He's a solid contact hitter, striking out just twice in 67 at-bats, but he only drew a trio of walks and has no power to speak of.
Oddly, his career has been reverse of his scouting reports. They all have him as a slick-fielding, no-hit guy. Cruz's rep at Altoona was that he had hands of iron, but his glovework looked better in Pittsburgh as he saw more playing time. The Pirates like his bat, although he's been a middle-of-the-road hitter in the minors with one good stretch at Indy.
It looks like he's finally living up to his advance billing.
The 24-year old Mexican native was signed as an undrafted free agent by the BoSox in 2000, bounced around the San Diego system for awhile, and inked a deal with Pittsburgh in 2007 as a free agent.
Can he take Luis Rivas' spot on the Buc pine? Probably, and he has plenty of second base experience under his belt. Can he give the Bucs an everyday presence at SS? Not yet, and probably not ever.
Brian Bixler - The BB era looks about done in Pittsburgh. Oh, the suits say the right things about him, but his deer-in-the-headlights look at the plate and inconsistent play in the field have probably dropped him from a potential utility man role to a depth chart player stationed at Indy for emergency duty.
The pride of Sandusky, Ohio, Bixler will turn 26 in October. He was a 2nd round draft pick in 2004 from Eastern Michigan, and hit .157 while committing 8 errors and several muffs in 39 games in the bigs.
He gives every impression of being another AAAA player, good enough to rock on at Indy but without having the stuff it takes to land a job in Pittsburgh.
Brian Friday - The good news and bad news about Friday is that he's a younger Bixler clone - speedy, good glove (in 2007, Baseball America picked him as the best defensive infielder in the system), and better at making contact. He needs a break-out year in 2009 to gain some separation before the pack of shortstops at the A level begin to chase him down.
Friday hit .287 at High Class A Lynchburg, although he lost a good chunk of the year to back problems, and looks like he'll be the man at Altoona in 2009.
He was drafted third in the 2007 draft out of Rice, and will be 23 in the spring. So Friday still has time to get it on, but the clock is ticking as the competition heats up.
Chase d'Arnaud - 21 year-old d'Arnaud spent the season at short-season State College, where he hit .286 and was one of the bright spots on a dismal team. He was a New York-Penn League All Star and was selected as the Spike's MVP.
Where he'll land next is still up in the air. d'Arnaud should be headed to West Virginia next season in low A, but with the glut of infielders the Bucs drafted in 2008, his final destination is yet to be determined.
He was this year's fourth-round pick out of Pepperdine, and considered a run-of-the-mill gloveman with a good stick, but little power. d'Arnaud does have a good eye, puts the ball in play, and showed the ability to steal a base at State College.
He's a candidate to make the switch to second base, which is even weaker in bodies than shortstop in the Pirate organization.
Jordy Mercer - Mercer had a cup of coffee at State College before being moved up Hickory, more to give him some space from the other SS's than on performance. He was lost at the dish in the higher level for awhile, but the light came on in the final weeks of the season.
Mercer finished hitting .250, and showed acceptable range with a cannon for an arm, which should be no surprise, as he was the closer in his college days. But he didn't show the power or plate discipline that the suits were looking for - he hit just 4 homers and only walked a dozen times - so where he'll start 2009 is a coin flip.
The 22 year-old was the third round pick in this year's draft from Oklahoma State, and a departure from the Littlefield infielders, being a strapping hitter without a lot of speed or a pedigree with the leather. In other words, he's a fairly stereotypical AL shortstop.
Jarek Cunningham - In 48 games for Bradenton in the GCL, Cunningham, 3B-SS, hit .336 with six home runs, 27 RBIs, and a .540 slugging percentage. He was named one of Baseball America's Top 20 Prospects in the Gulf Coast League.
The youngster was taken in the 18th round of the 2008 draft, out of Washington's Mt. Spokane HS, turning down a free ride to Arizona State to ink a deal with the Bucs. Cunningham will turn 19 at Christmas, and has the look of a steal for the Pirates.
He lasted so long in the draft because a knee injury cost him his senior year of ball. It's also the reason Cunningham played some 3B for Bradenton. He has the tools to be an everyday SS when 100%.
He'll advance to State College for sure, and depending how the other SS's fall, he could possibly skip a level and end up at West Virgina in Low A. But we think at his age and with the current lower level logjam at short, the Pirates will move him along one step at a time.
Benjamin Gonzalez - We bring up Benji only because he may be the best glove man in the Pirate system, and one of its fastest players. He spent 2008 at Bradenton, but hit only .207.
Gonzalez came from the Puerto Rico Baseball Academy, and had a scholarship to Oklahoma State before coming to terms with Pittsburgh as its seventh round pick this year. GW's take is that that the 18 year-old will spend another year in the GCL to try to straighten out his stick.
Andury Acevedo - He's another puppy in the system, signed out of Santo Domingo in 2007. He only turned 18 in August, so there's still some room to grow for Acevado. He's considered athletic, and at 6'4", he's a big, rangy guy with some speed. Acevedo struggled at Bradenton, hitting .216 and striking out 42 times in 153 at-bats while committing 20 errors between third and short.
We'll see what his upside is in a couple of more seasons; a kid that young in pro ball is worth keeping an eye on. If he fills out, Acevedo may end up on a corner.
The Bucs will have to make some choices to make regarding this crew of players, and where they end up sending them to develop should be telling.
If they all go where expected, the Buc system should feature Cruz as the Pirate's utility guy, Bixler at Indy, Friday at Altoona, Mercer at Lynchburg, d'Arnaud at West Virginia, Cunningham at State College, with Gonzalez & Acevedo at Bradenton. Where they move up or down that ladder will indicate what the scouts and suits think of their potential.
It's also certain that the oversupply will lead to some position changes, perhaps as soon as next year, and that could effect the minor league postings, as would any deal that nets a young infielder as part of the payoff.
And what to do about Jack Splat? Hey, if the team gets an offer they can't refuse, he's gone. But don't look for his replacement from anywhere within the Pirate organization, which is void at the top end, although with a promising pack of players stacking the A level.
Anyone for bringing back Cesar Izturis?
Showing posts with label pirate prospects 2008. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pirate prospects 2008. Show all posts
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Pellas on the Pirates: The Prospects
PLAYERS I LIKE
I'm going in with the notion that we have three prospects in our minor league system who are clearly head and shoulders above all the rest. I could really pick any of them as number one, but have decided to rate them 1A, 1B, and 1C. All the rest are in the next tier down from these three.
I have this Terrific Trio in the following order based largely on what I view as 1) how objectively talented I think they are, and 2) how well they are likely to play as big leaguers if they maximize their objective talent. Using these two criteria, my number one might surprise you:
1A) Brad Lincoln (23, Lynchburg/Hickory, RHP) - Until further notice and until proven otherwise, it is Brad Lincoln and not Andrew McCutchen who is the single most important player currently in the Pirates' minor league system. Lincoln has the potential to become what has not been seen in Pittsburgh since Doug Drabek's heyday, and that is a true top of the rotation, All-Star starting pitcher. If you doubt how much a guy like that can mean to your team's fortunes, consider how much better the otherwise sad sack Brewers were when they had Ben Sheets and very little else. (Now of course they've added lots of young talent, but for a couple of seasons they were only competitive when Sheets was on the hill.) The only---repeat---only question with Lincoln is his health, because he was an absolutely dominant major college pitcher, and his minor league performance has been very good considering it's been marred by Tommy John surgery. I might quibble just a tad with Lincoln's relatively low strikeout numbers, but those figure to get better as he continues his recovery, and in the meantime his control has been impeccable. He could be pitching at PNC as soon as the second half of next season, though he's more likely to arrive in 2010.
1B) Jose Tabata (20, Altoona, CF) I saw this kid play in person in Altoona over the Labor Day weekend, and he looked like a man among boys. He does everything well, and makes it all look easy. I believe he is more talented than Andrew McCutchen, he definitely has more power, and in my opinion he also has more long term upside. Yes, that's quite a statement. No, it will be you and not me eating your words when you see him in Pittsburgh in 2010!
1C) Andrew McCutchen (21, Indy, CF) Alright, here's the deal with Andrew. He's still a very gifted athlete. He's very fast. He's excellent defensively. And yes, he's been young for his level at every stop along the way in his professional career to date, so we can perhaps give him half a mulligan when evaluating his statistics. I still believe he is as close to a can't miss player as we have in our system. So what's the problem, and why do I have him rated as only our number 3 prospect? Because 283-9-50 is still 283-9-50, and because he doesn't make the best use of his speed, having been caught stealing 20 times in 54 attempts. His power, batting average, and on base percentage all look...okay...but definitely nothing special. Now, maybe he goes and plays winter ball, then makes it to the last cut in spring training, then goes back to Indianapolis and tears the cover off the ball until July, then he comes to Pittsburgh and never looks back. Hey, great, nothing would make me happier. But.....there's this nagging suspicion in the back of my mind that won't go away. It keeps whispering, "The kid's good....but he's not great. And people are expecting waayyy too much from him. He'll be a solid, better than average major leaguer who plays outstanding defense. But he won't be a superstar and he may not even be an All-Star."
We'll see.
4) Ross Ohlendorf (26, Indy, NYY, RHP) - Flamethrowing former Ivy Leaguer was 5-4, 3.65 - AAA, at Indianapolis and 1-1, 6.53 with the Yankees. He looked like he belonged in his only Pirates start thus far. I believe in Ohlendorf and am of the view that he was miscast as a reliever in New York. Given the chance to return to starting---where he was pretty successful in his minor league career---I believe he will blossom. Could be as good as a number two starter for us, but more likely an excellent number three.
5) Evan Meek (25, Pittsburgh/Indy/Altoona, RHP) -Couldn't throw strikes to save his life early this season after coming over from Tampa in the Rule V draft, but was an absolute Terminator at both double and triple-A. If he has truly harnessed his control, he could be an outstanding setup man and might even be closer material down the road.
6) Daniel McCutchen (25, Indy, RHP) - He threw a lot of innings at triple-A this year, finishing with 174. His record was just 7-9 with a 4.03 ERA, but I really like him because he is absolutely fearless and he doesn't walk anyone. While he will never be dominant, I think he is perfectly fine as a right-handed version of Paul Maholm. Particularly when the Pirates have superb gloveman Andrew McCutchen in center to go with almost-as-good Nate McLouth and better than average Brandon Moss, a pitch to contact type like McCutchen could be highly effective in Pittsburgh. I believe he will be.
7) Bryan Morris (21, Hickory, RHP) A bit of a long shot in that he is very young and coming off Tommy John surgery, but he was considered the best arm in the entire Dodgers system at one point. Potentially an ace starter if he can stay healthy and progress normally from here on.
8) Robinzon Diaz (24, Indy, C) A Joe Girardi type who hits for a high average---especially for a catcher---though with little power. He also brings a good glove to the game. Definitely ought to be our number two catcher next season, and in my opinion you could do a lot worse than him as your starter. He only ranks this low because he's yet to play in the bigs and because he had a so-so 2008, mostly in the Blue Jays system. But I definitely like him a lot going forward.
9) Jimmy Barthmaier (24, Indy, RHP) - Scrapheap reclamation project from the Astros organization has all the tools, but can't seem to stay healthy or consistent. If he somehow puts it all together for a full season, watch out. The Pirates are sending him to pitch in the Arizona League. Watch him closely out in the desert.
10) Brian Bixler (25, Indy, SS) I've come full circle on Bixler. Originally, I had him pegged as high-end organizational fodder, the quintessential overachiever - quad A type. Then I saw him play in person last season, and he showed me a very good glove with an accurate if not super strong arm. I also saw enough of a stick and enough of a running game to think, hey, maybe he's just one of those Craig Counsell types who doesn't know he's not supposed to be good enough to play in the bigs---but does so anyway, and does it well.
Unfortunately, Bixler looked utterly overmatched in his extended early season audition in Pittsburgh. If he's ever going to make his move, it had better be right now, which is to say, in Spring Training 2009.
11) Brian Friday (22, Lynchburg, SS) - This is the guy who could pass Bixler as soon as next season if he continues to improve and Bixler continues to stagnate.
12) Jim Negrych (23, Altoona/Lynchburg, 3B) - I know, I know, he can't field a lick, he doesn't really have a position, and he has little power. All I know is, hitters as good as Negrych don't grow on trees, and the man hit .370-5-62 at high A Lynchburg, then followed that up with a 310-0-10 line at season's end in Altoona. I say, coach the heck out of him with his glove, and then make him prove that he can't hit big league pitching. I think he can. From there, if he can play even adequate defense somewhere on the field, we've got ourselves a real asset.
13) Jamie Romak (22, Altoona/Lynchburg, 1B/OF) - Lots of strikeouts, lots of walks, lots of home runs. In other words, the quintessential Billy Beane - sabremetrician's ballplayer. Romak was blistering the ball for three quarters of the year at Lynchburg, and one of the real mysteries of 2008 is why he wasn't promoted sooner. Whatever. Romak mashed 25 homers between single and double-A, and I'm anxious to see if he can keep it up next year. .208-7-32 - Altoona. .279-18-52 - Lynchburg.
14) Luis Cruz (24, Indy/Altoona, 2B/SS) Signed from the Padres system as minor league fodder, Cruz parlayed a strong showing at double and triple-A into an unexpected, but extended, September audition in Pittsburgh. Cruz has probably leapfrogged Brian Bixler, but I have him lower than Brian because Cruz hasn't hit as well as Bixler in his professional career to date, meaning I don't believe in him----yet. If he can show even a so-so stick, however, he will almost certainly be the utilityman for the Pirates next season, which leaves Bixler's future cloudy His minor league line shows .325-3-15 - Indy, .264-6-46 - Altoona.
15) Dan Moskos (22, Lynchburg, LHP) Is he hurt, or just not that good to begin with? Former number one draft pick Moskos looked fairly good early on in his first season as a starter, but was tattooed later in the year to the tune of 7-7, 5.95. He can't be that bad....can he??? Being lefthanded, he will probably have a longer leash, but he must show considerable improvement in 2009 to have any kind of future in Pittsburgh.
PLAYER I'M NOT SURE I LIKE
16) Neil Walker (22, Indy, 3B) - He's still relatively young, and he's supposedly fully recovered from his serious wrist injury of a couple years ago. Indy's 2008 MVP, he had a strong second half but still finished with middling numbers at .241-16-80. The Pedro Alvarez fiasco, coupled with Andy LaRoche's struggles, could mean that the door is still open for Neil. I'd like to believe that, but he certainly must do better in '09 to force the Pirates to make a decision about him.
PLAYERS I DON'T LIKE
Craig Hansen - I don't care how hard he throws, he has no clue where the ball is going. Worth a flyer, yes. Count on him, no.
Shelby Ford (23, Altoona, 2B) Okay but not overwhelming numbers at double-A, also appears injury prone and has limited range defensively.
Jesse Chavez (25, Indy, RHP) Still kicking around in our system several years after the Kip Wells trade, so-so numbers at Indianapolis. A non-factor.
Dave Davidson (24, Altoona, LHP) You'd think that a guy who was good enough to play on Canada’s Olympic team would have better numbers than 4-2, 3.34 in middle relief---he wasn't even the closer---at double-A Altoona, especially at age 24.
PLAYER I LIKE AS A SLEEPER PICK
Juan Mateo (25, Altoona, RHP) Once a big-time Cub prospect, he landed on the junkpile with shoulder woes. Don't look now, but he might be getting healthy. He looked great at Altoona, to the tune of 7-1-5, 2.12. If he can stay physically sound, he will be part of the Pirates' bullpen in 2009. Write it down.
Will Pellas, the GW's alter ego, telling it as he sees it on the Pirate pups and whether their bite is worse than their bark.
I'm going in with the notion that we have three prospects in our minor league system who are clearly head and shoulders above all the rest. I could really pick any of them as number one, but have decided to rate them 1A, 1B, and 1C. All the rest are in the next tier down from these three.
I have this Terrific Trio in the following order based largely on what I view as 1) how objectively talented I think they are, and 2) how well they are likely to play as big leaguers if they maximize their objective talent. Using these two criteria, my number one might surprise you:
1A) Brad Lincoln (23, Lynchburg/Hickory, RHP) - Until further notice and until proven otherwise, it is Brad Lincoln and not Andrew McCutchen who is the single most important player currently in the Pirates' minor league system. Lincoln has the potential to become what has not been seen in Pittsburgh since Doug Drabek's heyday, and that is a true top of the rotation, All-Star starting pitcher. If you doubt how much a guy like that can mean to your team's fortunes, consider how much better the otherwise sad sack Brewers were when they had Ben Sheets and very little else. (Now of course they've added lots of young talent, but for a couple of seasons they were only competitive when Sheets was on the hill.) The only---repeat---only question with Lincoln is his health, because he was an absolutely dominant major college pitcher, and his minor league performance has been very good considering it's been marred by Tommy John surgery. I might quibble just a tad with Lincoln's relatively low strikeout numbers, but those figure to get better as he continues his recovery, and in the meantime his control has been impeccable. He could be pitching at PNC as soon as the second half of next season, though he's more likely to arrive in 2010.
1B) Jose Tabata (20, Altoona, CF) I saw this kid play in person in Altoona over the Labor Day weekend, and he looked like a man among boys. He does everything well, and makes it all look easy. I believe he is more talented than Andrew McCutchen, he definitely has more power, and in my opinion he also has more long term upside. Yes, that's quite a statement. No, it will be you and not me eating your words when you see him in Pittsburgh in 2010!
1C) Andrew McCutchen (21, Indy, CF) Alright, here's the deal with Andrew. He's still a very gifted athlete. He's very fast. He's excellent defensively. And yes, he's been young for his level at every stop along the way in his professional career to date, so we can perhaps give him half a mulligan when evaluating his statistics. I still believe he is as close to a can't miss player as we have in our system. So what's the problem, and why do I have him rated as only our number 3 prospect? Because 283-9-50 is still 283-9-50, and because he doesn't make the best use of his speed, having been caught stealing 20 times in 54 attempts. His power, batting average, and on base percentage all look...okay...but definitely nothing special. Now, maybe he goes and plays winter ball, then makes it to the last cut in spring training, then goes back to Indianapolis and tears the cover off the ball until July, then he comes to Pittsburgh and never looks back. Hey, great, nothing would make me happier. But.....there's this nagging suspicion in the back of my mind that won't go away. It keeps whispering, "The kid's good....but he's not great. And people are expecting waayyy too much from him. He'll be a solid, better than average major leaguer who plays outstanding defense. But he won't be a superstar and he may not even be an All-Star."
We'll see.
4) Ross Ohlendorf (26, Indy, NYY, RHP) - Flamethrowing former Ivy Leaguer was 5-4, 3.65 - AAA, at Indianapolis and 1-1, 6.53 with the Yankees. He looked like he belonged in his only Pirates start thus far. I believe in Ohlendorf and am of the view that he was miscast as a reliever in New York. Given the chance to return to starting---where he was pretty successful in his minor league career---I believe he will blossom. Could be as good as a number two starter for us, but more likely an excellent number three.
5) Evan Meek (25, Pittsburgh/Indy/Altoona, RHP) -Couldn't throw strikes to save his life early this season after coming over from Tampa in the Rule V draft, but was an absolute Terminator at both double and triple-A. If he has truly harnessed his control, he could be an outstanding setup man and might even be closer material down the road.
6) Daniel McCutchen (25, Indy, RHP) - He threw a lot of innings at triple-A this year, finishing with 174. His record was just 7-9 with a 4.03 ERA, but I really like him because he is absolutely fearless and he doesn't walk anyone. While he will never be dominant, I think he is perfectly fine as a right-handed version of Paul Maholm. Particularly when the Pirates have superb gloveman Andrew McCutchen in center to go with almost-as-good Nate McLouth and better than average Brandon Moss, a pitch to contact type like McCutchen could be highly effective in Pittsburgh. I believe he will be.
7) Bryan Morris (21, Hickory, RHP) A bit of a long shot in that he is very young and coming off Tommy John surgery, but he was considered the best arm in the entire Dodgers system at one point. Potentially an ace starter if he can stay healthy and progress normally from here on.
8) Robinzon Diaz (24, Indy, C) A Joe Girardi type who hits for a high average---especially for a catcher---though with little power. He also brings a good glove to the game. Definitely ought to be our number two catcher next season, and in my opinion you could do a lot worse than him as your starter. He only ranks this low because he's yet to play in the bigs and because he had a so-so 2008, mostly in the Blue Jays system. But I definitely like him a lot going forward.
9) Jimmy Barthmaier (24, Indy, RHP) - Scrapheap reclamation project from the Astros organization has all the tools, but can't seem to stay healthy or consistent. If he somehow puts it all together for a full season, watch out. The Pirates are sending him to pitch in the Arizona League. Watch him closely out in the desert.
10) Brian Bixler (25, Indy, SS) I've come full circle on Bixler. Originally, I had him pegged as high-end organizational fodder, the quintessential overachiever - quad A type. Then I saw him play in person last season, and he showed me a very good glove with an accurate if not super strong arm. I also saw enough of a stick and enough of a running game to think, hey, maybe he's just one of those Craig Counsell types who doesn't know he's not supposed to be good enough to play in the bigs---but does so anyway, and does it well.
Unfortunately, Bixler looked utterly overmatched in his extended early season audition in Pittsburgh. If he's ever going to make his move, it had better be right now, which is to say, in Spring Training 2009.
11) Brian Friday (22, Lynchburg, SS) - This is the guy who could pass Bixler as soon as next season if he continues to improve and Bixler continues to stagnate.
12) Jim Negrych (23, Altoona/Lynchburg, 3B) - I know, I know, he can't field a lick, he doesn't really have a position, and he has little power. All I know is, hitters as good as Negrych don't grow on trees, and the man hit .370-5-62 at high A Lynchburg, then followed that up with a 310-0-10 line at season's end in Altoona. I say, coach the heck out of him with his glove, and then make him prove that he can't hit big league pitching. I think he can. From there, if he can play even adequate defense somewhere on the field, we've got ourselves a real asset.
13) Jamie Romak (22, Altoona/Lynchburg, 1B/OF) - Lots of strikeouts, lots of walks, lots of home runs. In other words, the quintessential Billy Beane - sabremetrician's ballplayer. Romak was blistering the ball for three quarters of the year at Lynchburg, and one of the real mysteries of 2008 is why he wasn't promoted sooner. Whatever. Romak mashed 25 homers between single and double-A, and I'm anxious to see if he can keep it up next year. .208-7-32 - Altoona. .279-18-52 - Lynchburg.
14) Luis Cruz (24, Indy/Altoona, 2B/SS) Signed from the Padres system as minor league fodder, Cruz parlayed a strong showing at double and triple-A into an unexpected, but extended, September audition in Pittsburgh. Cruz has probably leapfrogged Brian Bixler, but I have him lower than Brian because Cruz hasn't hit as well as Bixler in his professional career to date, meaning I don't believe in him----yet. If he can show even a so-so stick, however, he will almost certainly be the utilityman for the Pirates next season, which leaves Bixler's future cloudy His minor league line shows .325-3-15 - Indy, .264-6-46 - Altoona.
15) Dan Moskos (22, Lynchburg, LHP) Is he hurt, or just not that good to begin with? Former number one draft pick Moskos looked fairly good early on in his first season as a starter, but was tattooed later in the year to the tune of 7-7, 5.95. He can't be that bad....can he??? Being lefthanded, he will probably have a longer leash, but he must show considerable improvement in 2009 to have any kind of future in Pittsburgh.
PLAYER I'M NOT SURE I LIKE
16) Neil Walker (22, Indy, 3B) - He's still relatively young, and he's supposedly fully recovered from his serious wrist injury of a couple years ago. Indy's 2008 MVP, he had a strong second half but still finished with middling numbers at .241-16-80. The Pedro Alvarez fiasco, coupled with Andy LaRoche's struggles, could mean that the door is still open for Neil. I'd like to believe that, but he certainly must do better in '09 to force the Pirates to make a decision about him.
PLAYERS I DON'T LIKE
Craig Hansen - I don't care how hard he throws, he has no clue where the ball is going. Worth a flyer, yes. Count on him, no.
Shelby Ford (23, Altoona, 2B) Okay but not overwhelming numbers at double-A, also appears injury prone and has limited range defensively.
Jesse Chavez (25, Indy, RHP) Still kicking around in our system several years after the Kip Wells trade, so-so numbers at Indianapolis. A non-factor.
Dave Davidson (24, Altoona, LHP) You'd think that a guy who was good enough to play on Canada’s Olympic team would have better numbers than 4-2, 3.34 in middle relief---he wasn't even the closer---at double-A Altoona, especially at age 24.
PLAYER I LIKE AS A SLEEPER PICK
Juan Mateo (25, Altoona, RHP) Once a big-time Cub prospect, he landed on the junkpile with shoulder woes. Don't look now, but he might be getting healthy. He looked great at Altoona, to the tune of 7-1-5, 2.12. If he can stay physically sound, he will be part of the Pirates' bullpen in 2009. Write it down.
Will Pellas, the GW's alter ego, telling it as he sees it on the Pirate pups and whether their bite is worse than their bark.
Friday, September 5, 2008
The Farm Report
OK, the regular minor league season has been neatly swept into the dustbin of history, and it’s time for GW to assess the farm hands. Don’t get hung up on the order of the rankings; there are a handful of showtime guys and a lot of young wanna-be's, with not much in the middle from the A and AA levels. The Bucs are still a couple of drafts away from filling the organizational chart.
There aren't very many MLB ready players that we haven’t seen already, and Huntington has shook the system up, so it’s still very much an organization in transition, especially at the lower levels. There's gonna be a lot of churning on this list in the next couple of seasons as the young lions make their run at the mid level prospects.
1) Andrew McCutchen (21, Indy, CF) - He's still the one, and should be patrolling center field in PNC for a long time. .283-9-50, 34 SB.
2) Jose Tabata (20, Altoona, CF) - Kept his cool and showed all the tools in his brief audition with the Curve. .272-6-49, 18 SB - AA.
3) Steve Pearce (25, Indy, RF/1B) - Has to find some power in the bigs, but delivers in the clutch. He's still an adventure in the OF but getting there. .251-12-60.
4) Neil Walker (22, Indy, 3B) - Needs to step up his game if wants to play MLB. After a dismal start, lit it up at Indy in the dog days, and still young enough to make an impact. Indy's 2008 MVP. .241-16-80.
5) Ross Ohlendorf (26, Indy, NYY, RHP) - Has the heat, needs something off-speed to compliment it. 5-4, 3.65 - AAA, 1-1, 6.53 - Yankees.
6) Brad Lincoln (23, Lynchburg/Hickory, RHP) - We like his stuff, even if he did hit the wall in mid-season,with a decent start and good finish. We think his post-surgery season went as well as could be expected. 1-5, 4.75 - Lynchburg, 5-5, 4.65 - Hickory.
7) Bryan Morris (21, Hickory, RHP) - Still miles away, but upside is huge if he learns to command his stuff. 2-6, 5.02 - A.
8) Daniel McCutchen (25, Indy, RHP) - Aggressive, strike throwing machine. If he cuts down on the HR's allowed could find a rotation spot. Pirates seem to like him as a starter, although there was talk of converting him to a closer’s role in NY. Shut down after 174-inning AAA season. 7-9, 4.03 - AAA.
9) Evan Meek (25, Pittsburgh/Indy/Altoona, RHP) - Found the strike zone at Indy. 0-1, 6.92 - Pittsburgh, 0-0-1 2.70 - Indy, 1-1-2, 2.81 - Altoona.
10) Craig Hansen (24, Indy/Pittsburgh/Boston, RHP) Got the heat, has to find the plate. 14 walks in 10-1/3 innings for the Bucs. Overeffort or utter lack of command? 0-3-1, 10.45 - Pittsburgh, 1-3-2, 5.58 - Bosox, 1-0, 2.41 - AAA.
11) Brian Bixler (25, Indy, SS) - Has to feel Brian Friday and maybe Luis Cruz breathing down his neck, has the look of a leather-first utility INF in the bigs. .280-7-36, 23 SB.
12) Robinzon Diaz (24, Indy, C) Good glove, free swinger with a good average and no pop, could give Paulino a run for back-up status. Played some 3B, too. .255-1-16 - AAA.
13) Jimmy Barthmaier (24, Indy, RHP) - Top pick with a great breaking ball but no MLB success. Claimed from the Astro organization. He’ll pitch in the Arizona League this fall, had nagging injuries at Indy. 3-1, 3.53.
14) Brian Friday (22, Lynchburg, SS) - Fast, OK lumber, decent glove. .287-2-29, 16 SB.
15) Shelby Ford (23, Altoona, 2B) - Sweet stick, no power, limited range, injury-prone. Will play in the Arizona League in the fall to make up for time missed to injury this season. .285-4-32, 19 SB.
16) Jesse Chavez (25, Indy, RHP) Came in the Kip Wells deal, may finally be reaching his potential. He was the Tribe closer. 5-1-4, 3.46.
17) Jamie Romak (22, Altoona/Lynchburg, 1B/OF) - Finished strong, but has to cut down on the K's. .208-7-32 - Altoona. .279-18-52 - Lynchburg.
18) Dan Moskos (22, Lynchburg, LHP) Conversion of 2007 #1 pick to a starting role from closer was rocky, shut down at end of year. 7-7, 5.95.
19) Luis Cruz (24, Indy/Altoona, 2B/SS) – Good showing at Indy vaulted him into possible utility role. Good hit, no field rep. Signed from SD as minor league free agent. .325-3-15 - Indy, .264-6-46 - Altoona.
20) Jim Negrych (23, Altoona/Lynchburg, 3B) - Pitt grad hits in his sleep. No glove or power at all, but could be a Chris Gomez-type bench player, started career at 2B. .310-0-10 - Altoona, .370-5-62 - Lynchburg.
21) Nelson Pereira (19, GCL, LHP) – Followed a strong Venezuelan Summer League performance in 2007 with a dominating GCL season. 6-2, 1.62, 42 K’s in 45 innings;
22) Chase d'Arnaud (21, State College, SS) - Handled short-season A ball in All-Star fashion. .293-1-21, 14 SB.
23) Jarek Cunningham (18, GCL, 3B) - Showed some power in Bradenton. .318-5-22.
24) Ron Uviedo (21, State College/Hickory, RHP) Has some gas and a good curve, considered a potential closer. Originally signed by Seattle. 3-1-5, 3.01 - Hickory, 0-0, 0.63 - SC.
25) Jeff Sues (25, Altoona, RHP) - Fastball/slider pitcher, not much experience for his age, so still has some upside. Sent to Arizona League for some fall work. 3-1-1, 3.77 ERA.
Under the radar:
Pat Bresnehan (23, Altoona, RHP) – First 2006 draftee (5th round) to reach AA in 2007. Fastball/slider pitcher, being groomed as set-up man. Needs to rebound in 2009. 0-1, 4.29.
Adenson Chourio (22, GCL, 2B) Good glove, good speed, good contact guy. He's a senior citizen for GCL play. .335-0-13, 30 SB.
Mike Crotta (23, Lynchburg, RHP) Only A player sent to Arizona League. 9-10, 4.67.
Dave Davidson (24, Altoona, LHP) Steady mid relief type, on Canada’s Olympic team. 4-2, 3.34.
Jeremy Farrell (21, State College, 1B/3B) - Good eye for the Spikes, but has to show some power at the corner. .291-1-23.
Matt Hague (23, Hickory, 1B/OF) - Good player on a bad Crawdad team. .321-6-29.
Jared Hughes (23, Altoona/Lynchburg, RHP) Will work in the Arizona League this fall. Finesse guy, possible back-end starter. 2-2, 4.94 - Altoona, 3-9, 4.64 - Lynchburg.
Brent Klinger (20, GCL, RHP) - 94 MPH heater from the pen. 0-0, 0.66, 12 K’s, 13-2/3 innings.
Juan Mateo (25, Altoona, RHP) One-time Cub prospect, may be getting over shoulder woes. 7-1-5, 2.12.
Jordy Mercer (22, Hickory, SS) Drafted as a good stick SS. .250-7-29.
Josh Shortslef (26, LHP, Altoona) – Clock ticking on set-up guy. 5-2-3, 3.47.
Andrew Walker (22, Hickory, C) - Had a strong second half, has to build on it. .256, 7-29.
Tony Watson (23, Lynchburg, LHP) – Steady mover in system and an inning-eater. 8-12, 3.56.
Kris Watts (24, Lynchburg, C) - Switch hitter had a good year at the dish, bit long in the tooth for A ball. .285-4-34.
Having five relievers among the top 25 doesn’t bode very well for the system, but there are some kids bubbling under now. Eleven of GW's top 25 are 22 or younger. Another couple or three drafts like this year's, and the pipeline will be primed again.
(The GW didn't rate the usual suspects, like Ronny Paulino, Nyjer Morgan, Chris Duffy, JVB, etc.; guys on the Pirate roster for more than a cup of coffee (the trade deadline mob, mainly), signed too late to strut their stuff (Pedro Alvarez, if he is signed, Quinton Miller, Justin Wilson, Robbie Grossman, Wesley Freeman etc.), or played at Bradenton (too few innings, although there were some stud performances there. We did include Jarek Cunningham and Nelson Pereira in the Top 25, both whom had promising and age-appropriate GCL campaigns.)
"Pellas on the Pirates: The Prospects" will be up Sunday.
There aren't very many MLB ready players that we haven’t seen already, and Huntington has shook the system up, so it’s still very much an organization in transition, especially at the lower levels. There's gonna be a lot of churning on this list in the next couple of seasons as the young lions make their run at the mid level prospects.
1) Andrew McCutchen (21, Indy, CF) - He's still the one, and should be patrolling center field in PNC for a long time. .283-9-50, 34 SB.
2) Jose Tabata (20, Altoona, CF) - Kept his cool and showed all the tools in his brief audition with the Curve. .272-6-49, 18 SB - AA.
3) Steve Pearce (25, Indy, RF/1B) - Has to find some power in the bigs, but delivers in the clutch. He's still an adventure in the OF but getting there. .251-12-60.
4) Neil Walker (22, Indy, 3B) - Needs to step up his game if wants to play MLB. After a dismal start, lit it up at Indy in the dog days, and still young enough to make an impact. Indy's 2008 MVP. .241-16-80.
5) Ross Ohlendorf (26, Indy, NYY, RHP) - Has the heat, needs something off-speed to compliment it. 5-4, 3.65 - AAA, 1-1, 6.53 - Yankees.
6) Brad Lincoln (23, Lynchburg/Hickory, RHP) - We like his stuff, even if he did hit the wall in mid-season,with a decent start and good finish. We think his post-surgery season went as well as could be expected. 1-5, 4.75 - Lynchburg, 5-5, 4.65 - Hickory.
7) Bryan Morris (21, Hickory, RHP) - Still miles away, but upside is huge if he learns to command his stuff. 2-6, 5.02 - A.
8) Daniel McCutchen (25, Indy, RHP) - Aggressive, strike throwing machine. If he cuts down on the HR's allowed could find a rotation spot. Pirates seem to like him as a starter, although there was talk of converting him to a closer’s role in NY. Shut down after 174-inning AAA season. 7-9, 4.03 - AAA.
9) Evan Meek (25, Pittsburgh/Indy/Altoona, RHP) - Found the strike zone at Indy. 0-1, 6.92 - Pittsburgh, 0-0-1 2.70 - Indy, 1-1-2, 2.81 - Altoona.
10) Craig Hansen (24, Indy/Pittsburgh/Boston, RHP) Got the heat, has to find the plate. 14 walks in 10-1/3 innings for the Bucs. Overeffort or utter lack of command? 0-3-1, 10.45 - Pittsburgh, 1-3-2, 5.58 - Bosox, 1-0, 2.41 - AAA.
11) Brian Bixler (25, Indy, SS) - Has to feel Brian Friday and maybe Luis Cruz breathing down his neck, has the look of a leather-first utility INF in the bigs. .280-7-36, 23 SB.
12) Robinzon Diaz (24, Indy, C) Good glove, free swinger with a good average and no pop, could give Paulino a run for back-up status. Played some 3B, too. .255-1-16 - AAA.
13) Jimmy Barthmaier (24, Indy, RHP) - Top pick with a great breaking ball but no MLB success. Claimed from the Astro organization. He’ll pitch in the Arizona League this fall, had nagging injuries at Indy. 3-1, 3.53.
14) Brian Friday (22, Lynchburg, SS) - Fast, OK lumber, decent glove. .287-2-29, 16 SB.
15) Shelby Ford (23, Altoona, 2B) - Sweet stick, no power, limited range, injury-prone. Will play in the Arizona League in the fall to make up for time missed to injury this season. .285-4-32, 19 SB.
16) Jesse Chavez (25, Indy, RHP) Came in the Kip Wells deal, may finally be reaching his potential. He was the Tribe closer. 5-1-4, 3.46.
17) Jamie Romak (22, Altoona/Lynchburg, 1B/OF) - Finished strong, but has to cut down on the K's. .208-7-32 - Altoona. .279-18-52 - Lynchburg.
18) Dan Moskos (22, Lynchburg, LHP) Conversion of 2007 #1 pick to a starting role from closer was rocky, shut down at end of year. 7-7, 5.95.
19) Luis Cruz (24, Indy/Altoona, 2B/SS) – Good showing at Indy vaulted him into possible utility role. Good hit, no field rep. Signed from SD as minor league free agent. .325-3-15 - Indy, .264-6-46 - Altoona.
20) Jim Negrych (23, Altoona/Lynchburg, 3B) - Pitt grad hits in his sleep. No glove or power at all, but could be a Chris Gomez-type bench player, started career at 2B. .310-0-10 - Altoona, .370-5-62 - Lynchburg.
21) Nelson Pereira (19, GCL, LHP) – Followed a strong Venezuelan Summer League performance in 2007 with a dominating GCL season. 6-2, 1.62, 42 K’s in 45 innings;
22) Chase d'Arnaud (21, State College, SS) - Handled short-season A ball in All-Star fashion. .293-1-21, 14 SB.
23) Jarek Cunningham (18, GCL, 3B) - Showed some power in Bradenton. .318-5-22.
24) Ron Uviedo (21, State College/Hickory, RHP) Has some gas and a good curve, considered a potential closer. Originally signed by Seattle. 3-1-5, 3.01 - Hickory, 0-0, 0.63 - SC.
25) Jeff Sues (25, Altoona, RHP) - Fastball/slider pitcher, not much experience for his age, so still has some upside. Sent to Arizona League for some fall work. 3-1-1, 3.77 ERA.
Under the radar:
Pat Bresnehan (23, Altoona, RHP) – First 2006 draftee (5th round) to reach AA in 2007. Fastball/slider pitcher, being groomed as set-up man. Needs to rebound in 2009. 0-1, 4.29.
Adenson Chourio (22, GCL, 2B) Good glove, good speed, good contact guy. He's a senior citizen for GCL play. .335-0-13, 30 SB.
Mike Crotta (23, Lynchburg, RHP) Only A player sent to Arizona League. 9-10, 4.67.
Dave Davidson (24, Altoona, LHP) Steady mid relief type, on Canada’s Olympic team. 4-2, 3.34.
Jeremy Farrell (21, State College, 1B/3B) - Good eye for the Spikes, but has to show some power at the corner. .291-1-23.
Matt Hague (23, Hickory, 1B/OF) - Good player on a bad Crawdad team. .321-6-29.
Jared Hughes (23, Altoona/Lynchburg, RHP) Will work in the Arizona League this fall. Finesse guy, possible back-end starter. 2-2, 4.94 - Altoona, 3-9, 4.64 - Lynchburg.
Brent Klinger (20, GCL, RHP) - 94 MPH heater from the pen. 0-0, 0.66, 12 K’s, 13-2/3 innings.
Juan Mateo (25, Altoona, RHP) One-time Cub prospect, may be getting over shoulder woes. 7-1-5, 2.12.
Jordy Mercer (22, Hickory, SS) Drafted as a good stick SS. .250-7-29.
Josh Shortslef (26, LHP, Altoona) – Clock ticking on set-up guy. 5-2-3, 3.47.
Andrew Walker (22, Hickory, C) - Had a strong second half, has to build on it. .256, 7-29.
Tony Watson (23, Lynchburg, LHP) – Steady mover in system and an inning-eater. 8-12, 3.56.
Kris Watts (24, Lynchburg, C) - Switch hitter had a good year at the dish, bit long in the tooth for A ball. .285-4-34.
Having five relievers among the top 25 doesn’t bode very well for the system, but there are some kids bubbling under now. Eleven of GW's top 25 are 22 or younger. Another couple or three drafts like this year's, and the pipeline will be primed again.
(The GW didn't rate the usual suspects, like Ronny Paulino, Nyjer Morgan, Chris Duffy, JVB, etc.; guys on the Pirate roster for more than a cup of coffee (the trade deadline mob, mainly), signed too late to strut their stuff (Pedro Alvarez, if he is signed, Quinton Miller, Justin Wilson, Robbie Grossman, Wesley Freeman etc.), or played at Bradenton (too few innings, although there were some stud performances there. We did include Jarek Cunningham and Nelson Pereira in the Top 25, both whom had promising and age-appropriate GCL campaigns.)
"Pellas on the Pirates: The Prospects" will be up Sunday.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
And Here They All Come...
Four relievers joined the Bucs today as the Indy auditions begin. RHPs Craig Hansen, T.J. Beam, Marino Salas and Romulo Sanchez will join the Pirates' bullpen, while Ross Ohlendorf will join the Pittsburgh rotation.
Jimmy Barthmaier will get the month off before reporting to Arizona in October, and Ty Taubenheim was lopped from the 40-man to clear space for INF Luis Cruz.
As Dejan speculates, and it makes perfect sense, the Pirates are plugging him in at SS to see if they have an in-house option if Jack Splat gets moved during the off-season. The only other touted SS in the system old enough to shave is Brian Friday, and he's at Class A Lynchburg. They've already seen enough of Brian Bixler.
Wilson is expected to miss the Red's series with a bruised and cut finger, giving Cruz a perfect opening.
The Pirates recalled two catchers, Robinzon Diaz and Ronny Paulino, INF Bixler, and RF Steve Pearce. 35 members of their 40 man roster will suit up tonight.
Conspicuously absent were RHP JVB and 3B Neil Walker. And Marino Salas? Even the zombies in "The Night of the Living Dead" didn't rise from the grave as often as he has. Where's that stake...?
(Indianapolis has an article filled with the Tenderfoot Ten's exploits at 10 Tribe Players Promoted...)
Jimmy Barthmaier will get the month off before reporting to Arizona in October, and Ty Taubenheim was lopped from the 40-man to clear space for INF Luis Cruz.
As Dejan speculates, and it makes perfect sense, the Pirates are plugging him in at SS to see if they have an in-house option if Jack Splat gets moved during the off-season. The only other touted SS in the system old enough to shave is Brian Friday, and he's at Class A Lynchburg. They've already seen enough of Brian Bixler.
Wilson is expected to miss the Red's series with a bruised and cut finger, giving Cruz a perfect opening.
The Pirates recalled two catchers, Robinzon Diaz and Ronny Paulino, INF Bixler, and RF Steve Pearce. 35 members of their 40 man roster will suit up tonight.
Conspicuously absent were RHP JVB and 3B Neil Walker. And Marino Salas? Even the zombies in "The Night of the Living Dead" didn't rise from the grave as often as he has. Where's that stake...?
(Indianapolis has an article filled with the Tenderfoot Ten's exploits at 10 Tribe Players Promoted...)
Monday, September 1, 2008
Labor Day Scribbles
> The Pirate roster will expand in Cincy tomorrow. We've heard of a posse of possible call-ups being considered, although the Bucs have to balance PT with bench clutter.
It would make sense to further evaluate some pitching (Ross Ohlendorf, Jimmy Barthmaier - tho he's slated to go to Arizona, he needs some innings, - Craig Hansen, TJ Beam), middle infield (Brian Bixler, and possibly Luis Cruz too, according to Dejan, even though he's not on the 40-man), catchers Ronny Paulino and Robinzon Diaz, and Steve Pearce.
We'd pay to see Neil Walker go head-to-head with Andy LaRoche, although that scenario looks like it's a long shot. He's not on the 40-man, although a quick look at the protected pitchers shows that all the deadwood hasn't been cleared out yet.
If we read the rules right, Walker has to go on the 40-man before next year's Rule 5 draft anyway as a fourth year pro, while Andrew McCutchen still has a season to go, which is why they're in no hurry to call him up yet and burn a spot (plus, of course, prematurely starting that pesky service time clock).
The new suits say that no one has a position given to him. We'd like to see that put into action, especially as it's a Littlefield player vs Huntington player competition. Walker certainly deserves a look, comparing his play of the past few weeks against LaRoche's.
Remember the gnashing of teeth when Steve Pearce's shot was cut short? Well, Walker was the team MVP, not Pearce or Cutch. Walker had more HRs and 20 more RBI than Pearce, while his average was just nine points lower. It's time to see him play.
> George Von Benko of MLB.com says September is going to be an important month for the Bucs, according to GM Neal Huntington:
> Kevin Goldstein of Baseball Prospectus has a history of Scott Boras challenges against the MLB draft at Boras vs Baseball - A Primer. Don't underestimate Slick Scott.
> Dirt Dog Doug Mientkiewicz is listed as day-to-day after he injured his left hip flexor and groin on Saturday night. Ditto for Jack Splat, who opened a nasty gash on his finger yesterday.
> 1B Jonel Pacheco has been named Altoona's 2008 MVP. The 25-year old finished Sunday's contest with a .286 average, 17 doubles, 12 home runs and 52 RBI in 115 games.
The Curve also presented their annual “Pitcher of the Year” award to RHP Juan Mateo. In 32 appearances out of the bullpen, Mateo, who was signed as a minor league free agent in early May, is 7-1 with five saves and a 2.12 ERA.
C Milver Reyes was named the winner of the club's annual "Unsung Hero Award," and the "Big Money Player of the Year Award" went to OF Brad Corley.
> George Von Benko of MLB.com reports on the Bradenton prospects:
> Jenifer Langosch of MLB.com has a nice piece on long-time Buc broadcaster Lanny Frattare at Frattare Joins Frick Hopefuls.
> So far, so good with instant replay. It started this weekend, and no calls were overturned. Only home run calls can be reviewed to determine whether or not a ball was over the fence, fair or foul, or subject to fan interference.
It would make sense to further evaluate some pitching (Ross Ohlendorf, Jimmy Barthmaier - tho he's slated to go to Arizona, he needs some innings, - Craig Hansen, TJ Beam), middle infield (Brian Bixler, and possibly Luis Cruz too, according to Dejan, even though he's not on the 40-man), catchers Ronny Paulino and Robinzon Diaz, and Steve Pearce.
We'd pay to see Neil Walker go head-to-head with Andy LaRoche, although that scenario looks like it's a long shot. He's not on the 40-man, although a quick look at the protected pitchers shows that all the deadwood hasn't been cleared out yet.
If we read the rules right, Walker has to go on the 40-man before next year's Rule 5 draft anyway as a fourth year pro, while Andrew McCutchen still has a season to go, which is why they're in no hurry to call him up yet and burn a spot (plus, of course, prematurely starting that pesky service time clock).
The new suits say that no one has a position given to him. We'd like to see that put into action, especially as it's a Littlefield player vs Huntington player competition. Walker certainly deserves a look, comparing his play of the past few weeks against LaRoche's.
Remember the gnashing of teeth when Steve Pearce's shot was cut short? Well, Walker was the team MVP, not Pearce or Cutch. Walker had more HRs and 20 more RBI than Pearce, while his average was just nine points lower. It's time to see him play.
> George Von Benko of MLB.com says September is going to be an important month for the Bucs, according to GM Neal Huntington:
"Every game we play from here on out is an audition, for all of us," Huntington said.We'll see. Actions speak volumes.
Huntington indicated there are a core of players in place, but nothing is a given in the Pirates organization.
"I don't want to throw anybody under the bus, but the reality is the days of scholarships are over," Huntington explained. "We need to continue to work hard and we need to continue to play hard, and they need to show that they are the best option. We have to take the best 25 and we have to work hard to win ballgames. We're not here to be satisfied to win 81 games. We want to be the best we can. We want to win."
> Kevin Goldstein of Baseball Prospectus has a history of Scott Boras challenges against the MLB draft at Boras vs Baseball - A Primer. Don't underestimate Slick Scott.
> Dirt Dog Doug Mientkiewicz is listed as day-to-day after he injured his left hip flexor and groin on Saturday night. Ditto for Jack Splat, who opened a nasty gash on his finger yesterday.
> 1B Jonel Pacheco has been named Altoona's 2008 MVP. The 25-year old finished Sunday's contest with a .286 average, 17 doubles, 12 home runs and 52 RBI in 115 games.
The Curve also presented their annual “Pitcher of the Year” award to RHP Juan Mateo. In 32 appearances out of the bullpen, Mateo, who was signed as a minor league free agent in early May, is 7-1 with five saves and a 2.12 ERA.
C Milver Reyes was named the winner of the club's annual "Unsung Hero Award," and the "Big Money Player of the Year Award" went to OF Brad Corley.
> George Von Benko of MLB.com reports on the Bradenton prospects:
A couple of the young Pirates posted outstanding numbers -- third baseman Jarek Cunningham batted .318 with five home runs and 22 RBIs, and second baseman Adenson Chourio hit .335 with 30 stolen bases.OF Edward Garcia and 2B Chourio (who at the age of 22 is a GCL senior citizen) were sent to State College to get a brief taste of A ball. The Spikes season ends September 4th.
"[Cunningham] played some shortstop and some third base," (manager Tom) Prince reported. "He's just a solid person who went about his business very professionally and has a bright future ahead of him.
"Chourio is ... a very exciting young player and plays good defense at second base and stole a lot of bases. He just fit into the system real well." Prince also singled out a couple of members of his pitching staff.
"We had a couple of left-handers that did a real nice job for us," Prince offered. "Nelson Pereira out of Nicaragua, and Tyler Cox and Brent Klinger, a kid out of the Draft who did a great job. Klinger is a big kid who throws the ball hard. Basically we're trying to get these guys to throw strikes and they did an outstanding job."
> Jenifer Langosch of MLB.com has a nice piece on long-time Buc broadcaster Lanny Frattare at Frattare Joins Frick Hopefuls.
> So far, so good with instant replay. It started this weekend, and no calls were overturned. Only home run calls can be reviewed to determine whether or not a ball was over the fence, fair or foul, or subject to fan interference.
Monday, May 26, 2008
The system...
Have a great Memorial Day. Hopefully, the Bucs are out grilling burgers and guzzling beer like their fans. Everyone needs a holiday.
We thought that we'd take the off day to sneak a peek at the Pirate minor league crop. As you'll see, Dave Littlefield didn't leave much for the new suits to work with.
His drafts favored college guys, which means the lower levels of the system are longer in the tooth than you'd like. He chose infielders that could hit rather than field.
And then he went for finesse pitchers rather than power arms, creating staffs that depended on good glovework to get them through the day from infielders slick with their bats, not leather. Not a very good mix, hey?
Here's the prospects, as best we can figure (if we've missed any give us a yell - the Pirates, too, hehe.)
GOOD ENOUGH TO PLAY EVERY DAY:
Andrew McCutchen, 21, OF (Indy) Small on stature, but huge in Pirate plans, McCutcheon will be Pittsburgh's CF and leadoff man in 2009.
Steven Pearce, 25, OF-1B (Indy) He's getting his at bats in AAA now and learning the OF trade, but should be playing RF or 1B for the Pirates next year.
SHOULD WEAR A BIG LEAGUE UNIFORM SOME DAYS, MAYBE EVERY DAY:
Brian Bixler, 25, SS (Pitt - Indy) Needs work with the stick and projects as a 2B or utilityman in the show.
Shelby Ford, 23, 2B (Altoona) Switchhitter that runs and throws well, better bat than glove.
Brian Friday, 22, SS (Lynchburg) He runs well and could end up as a leadoff hitter. He has a good arm, but inconsistent otherwise. He could also end up a Bixler clone.
Brad Lincoln, 23, RHP (Hickory) Threw 98 MPH when drafted in 2006, just returned from TJ surgery and had a couple of good outings since his comeback.
Nyjer Morgan, 27, OF (Indy) Started baseball late, has great speed but not instinctive. Role player.
Daniel Moskos, 22, LHP (Lynchburg) Last year's first round selection, timed as high as 97 MPH while at Clemson. Has a good fastball and slider, will start this year.
Neil Walker, 22, 3B (Indy) The converted C is learning 3B on the fly in AAA and struggling at the plate, but the he's still very much on the Buc's radar. Bye-bye, Joey Bats.
Duke Welker, 22, RHP (Hickory) 6'7" 2007 draftee (2nd round), needs to improve his work habits. He was hurt much of last year. Throws 92-94, needs another pitch.
We haven't included Indy's AAAA pitchers Jonah Bayless, Bryan Bullington, Sean Burnett, Brian Rogers or JVB. You know everything you need to about them.
THROW AGAINST THE WALL AND SEE WHAT STICKS:
Jimmy Barthmaier, 24, RHP (Altoona) Highly touted Astro prospect, battled elbow problems last year. The starter has very so-so stats so far for the Curve.
Charles Benoit, 23, LHP (Lynchburg) Has an average curve and a fastball with good life, and could be a back-of-the-rotation starter. Being converted to relief with little success.
James Boone, 25, OF (Altoona) Good power, lotsa K's, injury prone.
Pat Bresnahan, 23, RHP (Altoona) Reliever with some upside, currently on DL.
Justin Byler, 22, 1B - Broke his arm, out for 2008. No field, good hit, though not for power. Back to A next year.
Jesse Chavez, 24, RHP (Indy) Short reliever with a WHIP of 0.86. Came from Texas for Kip Wells. He's a fairly hard thrower, usually in the low 90s but sometimes touching 96.
Brad Corley, 24, OF (Altoona) Former pitcher, is a switchhitter with good power from the right side.
David Davidson, 24, LHP (Altoona) Set up man, was at Indy last year so the 24 year old's star is dimming.
Marcus Davis, 23, OF (Hickory) Davis has some upside. He has some tools, but came out of Alcorn and is very raw, and his age works against him.
Jason Delaney, 25, 1B (Altoona) Will go as far as his bat carries him. He doesn't run well, converted from OF. Good power numbers.
Yoslan Herrera, 27, RHP (Altoona) Cuban national player had 3-year layoff. This is probably his make or break year.
Jared Hughes, 23, RHP (Lynchburg) Littlefield pitcher, lotsa groundballs and high WHIP. Projects as possible back of the rotation type starter, but already has 7 losses in A ball.
Quincy Latimore, 19, OF (GCL) The youngster was drafted out of HS in 2007. It was a curious decision to not start him at low A ball this year, but he has upside. Athletic though not speedy.
Steve Lerud, 23, C (Lynchburg) OK bat, but huge liability behind the plate.
Juan Mateo, 25, RHP (Altoona) Mateo throws a fastball that ranges from 90-95 and figures to be used in relief role. Was on Cub's fast track until injuries slowed him in 2007.
Evan Meek, 25, RHP (Altoona) Rule 5 power arm finally at right level.
Luis Munoz, 26, RHP (Indy) Starter with spotty results for the Indians.
Jim Negrych, 23, 3B (Hickory) Pitt product, good line-drive bat, but slow and not a good fielder. Bobby Hill utility type player.
Alex Presley, 23, OF (Lynchburg) Looks like a tweener, lacking the speed for CF and the power to play corner OF.
Kevin Roberts, 24, RHP (Lynchburg) Fastball-curve pitcher, working on a change up. Moved a level at a time, has some upside in the bullpen if he conquers control issues.
Jamie Romak, 22, OF (Lynchburg) Needs better plate discipline, but learning to use all the field and showing some power. Defense and foot speed are below average, just had elbow surgery.
Marino Salas, 27, RHP (Indy-Pitt) Pirates have remade his windup, fastball, curve, slider pitcher, middle-relief potential, especially tough on RH hitters.
Romulo Sanchez, 24, RHP (Indy) Throws heat and is seen as a future closer/set up type despite his average strikeout numbers. Has control issues and needs another pitch.
Keanon Simon 23, OF (Hickory) Hit well at State College after being drafted last year, no power, some speed.
Ty Taubenheim, 25, RHP (Indy) A finesse pitcher who throws the four standard pitches, including a high 80s fastball, with good control. He adds rotation depth to the system.
Justin Vaclavik, 25, RHP - He throws a 90-94 mph fastball and a good slider. Was a closer, and is being converted to long man/starter. On the DL, should go AA upon return.
Andrew Walker, 22, C (Hickory) The TCU product is sputtering with the bat in low Class A. Decent receiver, weak arm, was drafted for organizational depth.
Tony Watson, 23, LHP (Lynchburg) His effectiveness depends on a killer changeup. He also throws a curve, and is brutal against LH batters.
Read 'em and look forward to the draft. The Pirates need a good one even more than the Steelers did. Dejan Kovacevic of the Post Gazette has an interview with the suits about the upcoming draft Pirates seek deep draft, and the Latino players and any upcoming deals will factor into restocking the system, too.
(We ranked the players from various public scouting reports we found. The ratings, of course, are fluid. Some guys will break out, some steadily move up the ladder, and others just kinda hang out. Feel free to comment on their potential or add whatever guys we may have overlooked.)
We thought that we'd take the off day to sneak a peek at the Pirate minor league crop. As you'll see, Dave Littlefield didn't leave much for the new suits to work with.
His drafts favored college guys, which means the lower levels of the system are longer in the tooth than you'd like. He chose infielders that could hit rather than field.
And then he went for finesse pitchers rather than power arms, creating staffs that depended on good glovework to get them through the day from infielders slick with their bats, not leather. Not a very good mix, hey?
Here's the prospects, as best we can figure (if we've missed any give us a yell - the Pirates, too, hehe.)
GOOD ENOUGH TO PLAY EVERY DAY:
Andrew McCutchen, 21, OF (Indy) Small on stature, but huge in Pirate plans, McCutcheon will be Pittsburgh's CF and leadoff man in 2009.
Steven Pearce, 25, OF-1B (Indy) He's getting his at bats in AAA now and learning the OF trade, but should be playing RF or 1B for the Pirates next year.
SHOULD WEAR A BIG LEAGUE UNIFORM SOME DAYS, MAYBE EVERY DAY:
Brian Bixler, 25, SS (Pitt - Indy) Needs work with the stick and projects as a 2B or utilityman in the show.
Shelby Ford, 23, 2B (Altoona) Switchhitter that runs and throws well, better bat than glove.
Brian Friday, 22, SS (Lynchburg) He runs well and could end up as a leadoff hitter. He has a good arm, but inconsistent otherwise. He could also end up a Bixler clone.
Brad Lincoln, 23, RHP (Hickory) Threw 98 MPH when drafted in 2006, just returned from TJ surgery and had a couple of good outings since his comeback.
Nyjer Morgan, 27, OF (Indy) Started baseball late, has great speed but not instinctive. Role player.
Daniel Moskos, 22, LHP (Lynchburg) Last year's first round selection, timed as high as 97 MPH while at Clemson. Has a good fastball and slider, will start this year.
Neil Walker, 22, 3B (Indy) The converted C is learning 3B on the fly in AAA and struggling at the plate, but the he's still very much on the Buc's radar. Bye-bye, Joey Bats.
Duke Welker, 22, RHP (Hickory) 6'7" 2007 draftee (2nd round), needs to improve his work habits. He was hurt much of last year. Throws 92-94, needs another pitch.
We haven't included Indy's AAAA pitchers Jonah Bayless, Bryan Bullington, Sean Burnett, Brian Rogers or JVB. You know everything you need to about them.
THROW AGAINST THE WALL AND SEE WHAT STICKS:
Jimmy Barthmaier, 24, RHP (Altoona) Highly touted Astro prospect, battled elbow problems last year. The starter has very so-so stats so far for the Curve.
Charles Benoit, 23, LHP (Lynchburg) Has an average curve and a fastball with good life, and could be a back-of-the-rotation starter. Being converted to relief with little success.
James Boone, 25, OF (Altoona) Good power, lotsa K's, injury prone.
Pat Bresnahan, 23, RHP (Altoona) Reliever with some upside, currently on DL.
Justin Byler, 22, 1B - Broke his arm, out for 2008. No field, good hit, though not for power. Back to A next year.
Jesse Chavez, 24, RHP (Indy) Short reliever with a WHIP of 0.86. Came from Texas for Kip Wells. He's a fairly hard thrower, usually in the low 90s but sometimes touching 96.
Brad Corley, 24, OF (Altoona) Former pitcher, is a switchhitter with good power from the right side.
David Davidson, 24, LHP (Altoona) Set up man, was at Indy last year so the 24 year old's star is dimming.
Marcus Davis, 23, OF (Hickory) Davis has some upside. He has some tools, but came out of Alcorn and is very raw, and his age works against him.
Jason Delaney, 25, 1B (Altoona) Will go as far as his bat carries him. He doesn't run well, converted from OF. Good power numbers.
Yoslan Herrera, 27, RHP (Altoona) Cuban national player had 3-year layoff. This is probably his make or break year.
Jared Hughes, 23, RHP (Lynchburg) Littlefield pitcher, lotsa groundballs and high WHIP. Projects as possible back of the rotation type starter, but already has 7 losses in A ball.
Quincy Latimore, 19, OF (GCL) The youngster was drafted out of HS in 2007. It was a curious decision to not start him at low A ball this year, but he has upside. Athletic though not speedy.
Steve Lerud, 23, C (Lynchburg) OK bat, but huge liability behind the plate.
Juan Mateo, 25, RHP (Altoona) Mateo throws a fastball that ranges from 90-95 and figures to be used in relief role. Was on Cub's fast track until injuries slowed him in 2007.
Evan Meek, 25, RHP (Altoona) Rule 5 power arm finally at right level.
Luis Munoz, 26, RHP (Indy) Starter with spotty results for the Indians.
Jim Negrych, 23, 3B (Hickory) Pitt product, good line-drive bat, but slow and not a good fielder. Bobby Hill utility type player.
Alex Presley, 23, OF (Lynchburg) Looks like a tweener, lacking the speed for CF and the power to play corner OF.
Kevin Roberts, 24, RHP (Lynchburg) Fastball-curve pitcher, working on a change up. Moved a level at a time, has some upside in the bullpen if he conquers control issues.
Jamie Romak, 22, OF (Lynchburg) Needs better plate discipline, but learning to use all the field and showing some power. Defense and foot speed are below average, just had elbow surgery.
Marino Salas, 27, RHP (Indy-Pitt) Pirates have remade his windup, fastball, curve, slider pitcher, middle-relief potential, especially tough on RH hitters.
Romulo Sanchez, 24, RHP (Indy) Throws heat and is seen as a future closer/set up type despite his average strikeout numbers. Has control issues and needs another pitch.
Keanon Simon 23, OF (Hickory) Hit well at State College after being drafted last year, no power, some speed.
Ty Taubenheim, 25, RHP (Indy) A finesse pitcher who throws the four standard pitches, including a high 80s fastball, with good control. He adds rotation depth to the system.
Justin Vaclavik, 25, RHP - He throws a 90-94 mph fastball and a good slider. Was a closer, and is being converted to long man/starter. On the DL, should go AA upon return.
Andrew Walker, 22, C (Hickory) The TCU product is sputtering with the bat in low Class A. Decent receiver, weak arm, was drafted for organizational depth.
Tony Watson, 23, LHP (Lynchburg) His effectiveness depends on a killer changeup. He also throws a curve, and is brutal against LH batters.
Read 'em and look forward to the draft. The Pirates need a good one even more than the Steelers did. Dejan Kovacevic of the Post Gazette has an interview with the suits about the upcoming draft Pirates seek deep draft, and the Latino players and any upcoming deals will factor into restocking the system, too.
(We ranked the players from various public scouting reports we found. The ratings, of course, are fluid. Some guys will break out, some steadily move up the ladder, and others just kinda hang out. Feel free to comment on their potential or add whatever guys we may have overlooked.)
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