End Of Season Review: Delmarva Shorebirds

Below is a recap of the team statistical leaders. For batters, the leaders needed a minimum of a 240 at bats to qualify. For pitcher, the qualifying leaders needed to have pitched at least 40 innings this Summer.

(Note: Josh Hader won’t be included in this due to being traded to the Astros)

Rank	AVG	HR	RBI	OBP	SLG
1	Lucas Herbst .276	Tucker Nathans 9	Creede Simpson 49	Tucker Nathans .337	Tucker Nathans .467
2	Tucker Nathans .271	Creede Simpson 9	Adrian Marin 48	Wynston Sawyer .336	Creede Simpson .385
3	Nik Balog .266	Wynston Sawyer 8	Torsten Boss 45	Creede Simpson .334	Wynston Sawyer .384
4	Adrian Marin .265	Torsten Boss 7	Lucas Herbst 41	Torsten Boss .333	Lucas Herbst .372
5	Creede Simpson .248	Herbst + Hutter 5	Hutter + Lorenzo 41	Lucas Herbst .324	Nik Balog .371

Rank	W	ERA	K/9	WHIP	FIP
1	Parker Bridwell 8	Lex Rutledge 1.45	Lex Rutledge 9.35	Lex Rutledge 1.02	Lex Rutledge 2.67
2	Matt Hobgood 7	Dennis Torres 3.22	Parker Bridwell 9.08	Mychal Givens 1.24	Brady Wager 2.76
3	Juan Guzman 6	Bennett Parry 3.49	Bennett Parry 7.89	Bennett Parry 1.30	Mark Blackmar 3.32
4	Rutledge + Taylor 4	Matt Hobgood 3.71	Mychal Givens 7.59	Brady Wager 1.30	Mychal Givens 3.36
5	Rennie + Blackmar 4	Matt Taylor 3.77	Dennis Torres 7.46	Luc Rennie 1.32	Parker Bridwell 3.43

Instant Analysis (Hitters): Not much to discuss here when the team leader in average was .276.

– Lucas Herbst and Tucker Nathans both had good but not great seasons with Delmarva but are old for the level and look more like solid organizational players than potential big leaguers.

– Nathans is an intriguing story at least as an undrafted free agent signing that played both Soccer and Baseball at Fairfield. He has some versatility defensively and a decent batting eye with occasional pop at the plate. He might make a useful AAA depth type which wouldn’t be a bad outcome at all for someone undrafted.

– The best prospect of this mediocre bunch is 19 year old shortstop Adrian Marin, who held his own (but didn’t dominate) both offensively and defensively all year at Delmarva.

– Gregory Lorenzo has some tools (bat speed and running speed) and plays the game with an energizer bunny level of motor. However, his swing isn’t pretty and his pitch recognition is well below average leading to serious contact issues. He’s young but doesn’t look like anything more than a fringe prospect. The same can be said for Roderick Bernadina.

– Finally, there’s catcher Wynston Sawyer who is my pick for sleeper breakthrough candidate at Frederick next year. He had a better showing this year, repeating Delmarva, with improved plate discipline while tapping into his above average power a little more. If he can stay healthy and get a full season of at bats next year, he could become something more than the fringe prospect he is at the moment. Still, just 21.

Instant Analysis (Pitchers): Overall, it was a below average year for the Shorebirds in terms of pitching prospects for us to discuss. It doesn’t help that the best young pitcher Josh Hader was shipped away to Houston in the Bud Norris deal.

The most exciting talent of the bunch is Parker Bridwell; a returnee to the Shorebirds this year who showed significant growth in his ability to miss bats but needs to work on more consistent command from start to start. He’s an excellent athlete with a potential plus fastball and slider but is a work in progress to remain a starter. We’ll see how he handles the jump up to Frederick next year.

Branden Kline also stands out as an exciting young talent with a hard fastball and an above average slider. His season was cut short due an ankle injury unfortunately. His delivery still needs some altering and his fastball is straight. He probably ends up back in the bullpen.

Lex Rutledge might be the highest rated relief prospect in the Orioles minors (according to me). The lefthander has a strong, athletic build and some explosiveness in his delivery, allowing him to generate a fastball velocity in the 91-95 MPH range with some life and two breaking balls, the best of which is a power curve. He has his command issues at times but it didn’t matter as his raw stuff overwhelmed SALLY league batters. He could be knocking on the door for big league innings in 2014 if he dominates in Bowie like he did at Delmarva.

Matt Taylor had a nice full season in the Delmarva rotation after splitting time between relieving and starting last season. He’s a bit fringy as a SP prospect as his command is mediocre and while his fastball does have above average sink, it only tops out around 89 MPH. Longterm, I could see him getting a shot at pitching out of a major league bullpen but I’m not sold on him as a starter.

Our first two picks in the putrid ’09 Draft, Matt Hobgood and Mychal Givens both pitched out of the Delmarva bullpen. Both saw their velocities creep into the 93-95 MPH range as the season wore on which gives them some promise as potential bullpen options at the MLB level.

Top 5 Shorebirds Prospects

5) Matt Taylor – LHP

4) Lex Rutledge – LHP

3) Branden Kline – RHP

2) Parker Bridwell – RHP

1) Adrian Marin – SS

Others To Watch/ Juan Guzman – RHP, Wynston Sawyer – C, Mychal Givens – RHP, Matt Hobgood -RHP

Mid-Season Update: Orioles Top 20 Prospects

I’ve been getting ‘the itch’ for a while to put together an updated Top 20 list. Rather than buy some Gold Bond (Insert tm symbol here), I decided the time is ripe to finally publish a new and improved Top 20 Orioles prospect list. I’m not just saying “new and improved” for poops and gigs either. The Orioles minor leagues, in my opinion, is new and improved when you consider the breakthrough performances from guys like Josh Hader, Henry Urrutia, and Michael Ohlman. Spoiler Alert: All three will be in the Top Ten.

Now, for my preseason list, I made a separate post for EACH prospect I ranked in my Top 20. That’s not how things will work this time. That’s just too time consuming. I will simply post all 20 names right in this here post with a little bit of stats, info and commentary and that’s it. I’ll do the same thing at the end of the season. I only do the hardcore, in-depth list in FEB-APRIL in anticipation of the upcoming season. Make sense?

Ok, before I begin naming names here, I should first mention that the stats provided are through July 19 and while Kevin Gausman hasn’t exceeded his rookie innings limit yet, I’m still keeping him off the list because I think that will happen before the end of the season

1. Dylan Bundy – RHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

	Born: 11/15/92	Age: 20
	Height: 6’1″	Weight: 200 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 1	HS: Owasso (OK)
	Drafted: 1st Round, 2013	Signing Bonus: $4,000,000
	Yes, Bundy remains the top prospect in the organization despite an incredibly disappointing season where he never set foot on the mound in the minors, ultimately hearing the news no one wants to hear this June when he was informed he needed Tommy John surgery. People tend to think optimistically about pitchers returning to the mound as strong, sometimes even stronger prior to surgery. The success rate is higher than it used to be but it is still not a given that Bundy will return to previous form. Considering he entered the year as one of, if not the most, highly touted pitching prospects in the minors, we can only hope he makes a speedy recovery and regains the promise he has held as a potential ace.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—

2. Jonathan Schoop – 2B – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Bats/Throws: R/R

Photo From: Milb.com	Born: 10/16/91	Age: 21
	Height: 6’2″	Weight: 210 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 3	Hometown: Willemstad, Curacao
	Signed: FA, Curacao, 2010	Signing Bonus: (Approx.) $150,000
	Jonathan Schoop began the season ice cold in April, causing many prospect junkies to question his aggressive promotion to AAA. He caught fire in May, putting those questions to rest. Just when rumblings of him possibly coming up to play 2B for the O’s started to surface, Schoop (pronounced Scope; Yes, I hate the correct pronunciation too) went down with a hammy injury that has sidelined him since late May. He has finally returned to the field where he is currently on rehab assignment down with the GCL Orioles. After showing those schlubs how it’s done, Schoop should be returning to the Norfolk lineup soon. I also wouldn’t rule out a September callup to Baltimore to get his feet wet in the majors as he prepares to dispose of Brian Roberts as the Orioles future regular second baseman. If he pans out, I see Schoop becoming a similar player to Jhonny Peralta of the Tigers.

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
40	.283	145	41	5	25	8	0	13	29	.352	.441	.793

3. Eduardo Rodriguez – LHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Photo Courtesy of: Frederick Keys	Born: 4/07/93	Age: 20
	Height: 6’3″	Weight: 195 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 4	Hometown:
	Signed: FA, Venezuela, 2010	Signing Bonus: $175,000
	Fresh off a scoreless outing in the Future’s Game and a #44 ranking on Keith Law’s updated Top 50 Prospects, and – oh did, I mention – a (fairly) recent promotion to AA, I’d say E-Rod has exceeded expectations this year. He’s finally gaining deserved national recognition as a talented lefty with mid rotation potential and an advanced feel for command and control of his pitches. Said pitches consist of a running fastball that sits in the 91-93 MPH range, a potential outpitch changeup (mid-to-upper 80’s) that has splitter-esque taling action on it and a solid low 80’s slider. Just 20 years old, he’s advanced beyond his years and if his stuff continues to show growth, he has #2/#3 starter upside in the big leagues.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
17	6	6	3.20	101.1	91	6	35	85	1.29	.241

4. Hunter Harvey – RHP – GCL Orioles (R)

Photo From: Charlotte Observer	Born: 5/23/95	Age: 18
	Height: 6’3″	Weight: 195 lbs
	Bats/Throws: R/R	HS: Bandys (NC)
	Drafted: 1st Round, 2013	Signing Bonus: $1,947,600
	Now that he is officially signed as an Oriole, Harvey makes his debut at number 4 on the Top 20 prospect list. Some might say this is a somewhat aggressive franking for a talented but inexperienced high school arm. This should tell you how confident I about Harvey developing into a legit major league arm down the road as he matures and refines his command. One scout, Steve Bernhardt of Baseball Factory, sees similarities between Harvey and Kevin Gausman when Gausman was in high school, which he breaks down in this video. I expect him to become that kind of prospect in 3-4 years, possibly sooner. He made his debut today pitching a scoreless inning with a strikeout.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—

5. Nick Delmonico – 3B – Frederick Keys (A+)

Bats/Throws: L/R

Photo From: Go Sports Cards	Born: 7/12/92	Age: 21
	Height: 6’3″	Weight: 195 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 6	HS: Farragut (TN)
	Drafted: 6th Round, 2011	Signing Bonus: $1,600,000
	I’ve been impressed with Delmonico’s hitting ability and encouraged by the increased power production. Hopefully, he’s shown enough defensively to remain at third base. As of now, Delmonico is on the fringe for Top 100 prospect discussion with the main drawback being that he’s not a lock to remain a third basemen longterm. If or when he moves off the hot corner, first base is his likely destination and I’m not sold his bat will be any more than league average – by first base standards – in the majors unless he continues to develop more in game power.

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
56	.254	209	53	13	30	11	0	34	54	.361	.493	.853

6. Henry Urrutia – LF – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Bats/Throws: L/R

Photo By: Daniel Kucin	Born: 5/23/87	Age: 26
	Height: 6’5″	Weight: 200 lbs
	Preseason Rank: HM	HS: Bandys (NC)
	Signed: FA, Cuba, 2012	Signing Bonus: (Approx.) $800,000
	Hammerin Hank, they call him, has announced to the world he is legit with a thunderous debut season at Bowie. Everyone focuses their Cuban defector attention on Yoenis Cespedes and Yasiel Puig, but if Henry continues to mash like this in the majors, he’ll deserve his fare share of the attention too. So why is not as highly thought of as those two were? Henry’s not the same type of five tool athlete those two are. He’s a below average runner and may be limited to a LF defensively although he has enough arm strength to play RF in a pinch. The defensive limitations will put pressure on him to perform with the bat – and I don’t doubt he will – with the x factor between him becoming a solid platoon bat or an everyday player being how much in-game power he develops. Update: After a deserved partaking in the Future’s Game on July 14, Urrutia has been summoned to the majors.

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
67	.365	260	95	7	43	20	1	28	42	.427	.531	.958

7. Josh Hader – LHP – Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Photo Courtesy of: Delmarva Shorebirds	Born: 5/23/94	Age: 19
	Height: 6’3″	Weight: 165 lbs
	Top 10 Short Season Rank: 2	HS: Old Mill (MD)
	Drafted: 19th Round, 2012	Signing Bonus: $40,000
	Hader has a chance to be as highly regarded prospect wise as Eduardo Rodriguez is now in a couple years so I may be playing it a bit conservative with his ranking. He’s been outstanding and has thrived down at Delmarva, generating some buzz amongst scouts in the SALLY league. Still, despite the awesome numbers, the control needs work and there’s room for improvement in his secondary offerings and durability. I don’t doubt he can continue to grow into his lanky frame and make those improvements but for now, that’s what holds me back from ranking higher on the list. He has a high floor – with his sidewinder delivery and running fastball – to be a hellacious lefty on lefty weapon in a major league bullpen if starting doesn’t work out.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
15	3	4	2.70	76.2	53	4	39	68	1.03	.194

8. L.J. Hoes – LF – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Bats/Throws: R/R

Photo by J. Meric/Getty Images North America	Born: 5/23/90	Age: 23
	Height: 6’0″	Weight: 190 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 5	HS: St. John’s Prep (D.C.)
	Drafted: 3rd Round, 2008	Signing Bonus: $490,000
	While Hoes continues to show pretty underwhelming home run totals that scream 4th outfielder/reserve type in the big leagues, I refuse to let go of my belief that he will eventually hit for good enough (5-10 HR, 25-30 2B) power to start. Aside from that, I also think Hoes will be an solid hitter for AVG and post excellent OBP numbers due to his very disciplined approach and subsequent high walk totals. That should make up for the underwhelming power numbers and it’s not like Hoes isn’t a solid runner too who could probably swipe 10-15 bases a year.

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
91	.308	338	104	3	39	24	1	50	51	.404	.411	.815

9. Michael Ohlman – C – Frederick Keys (A+)

Bats/Throws: R/R

	Born: 12/14/90	Age: 22
	Height: 6’4″	Weight: 205 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 19	HS: Lakewood Ranch (FL)
	Drafted: 11th Round, 2009	Signing Bonus: $995,000
	I had Ohlman ranked at number 19 preseason as an intriguing sleeper who needed to prove he could be both healthy and productive over a full season. He did miss some time in May but his performance on the field has removed any doubt that last year’s impressive but small sample at Delmarva was a fluke. Here’s video of Ohlman hitting a home run for the Keys. He’s by far, the most improved player in the minors. According to Keys manager Ryan Minor, “He’s probably one of the better hitters in the league right now as far as making adjustments, getting to the fastball consistently and then using his hands well as far as breaking balls and off-speed pitches and keeping his bat in the zone a long time.” If the end of season reports on his defense suggest he can stick at catcher longterm, he’ll remain in the top ten.

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
61	.315	222	70	11	38	14	4	35	60	.414	.563	.977

10. Mike Wright – RHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Photo by Daniel Kucin	Born: 1/03/90	Age: 23
	Height: 6’6″	Weight: 215 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 7	College: East Carolina
	Drafted: 3rd Round, 2011	Signing Bonus: $363,000
	Wright has had an uneven yet improved performance thus far at AA. He continues to make strides with his secondaries and command and could possibly stick as an innings eating number 4 starter once he reaches his prime. Ultimately, I’m still iffy about that scenario unfolding although I think he’ll get his chances to prove he can hold his own as a starter. I think he will eventually find his niche in the bullpen where his fastball plays up in the mid 90’s with some movement and his slider will have a little more bite, making Wright a potential late innings weapon – similar to what Tommy Hunter has done.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
18	8	2	3.67	95.2	99	5	32	87	0.93	.260

11. Christian Walker – 1B – Frederick Keys (A+)

Photo Courtesy of: Frederick Keys	Born: 5/23/91	Age: 22
	Height: 6’2″	Weight: 220 lbs
	Top 10 Short Season Rank: 3	College: South Carolina
	Drafted: 4rd Round, 2012	Signing Bonus:
	Walker doesn’t wow scouts because A) He’s not a particularly great athlete and is limited to first base defensively and B) He hasn’t shown the prototypical power numbers you want to see in order to call him a potential everyday first baseman. Walker will be a major league hitter though. His approach at the plate is outstanding and he rarely wastes at bats. He gears his swing towards smacking line drives in the gaps and doesn’t sell out for power. He should be a consistent hitter for average and he has the raw power I’ve seen in batting practice to eventually become a bigger power threat down the road if he adjusts his swing. At worst, he should be a quality platoon hitter at the 1B/DH spot. If he ever sees a power spike, he might surprise and become a solid regular. You should never underestimate a Gamecock. That is all.

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
89	.310	342	106	11	55	23	0	29	60	.419	.585	1.004

12. Zach Davies – RHP – Frederick Keys (A+)

Photo Courtesy of: Delmarva Shorebirds	Born: 2/07/93	Age: 20
	Height: 6’0″	Weight: 150 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 11	HS: Mesquite (AZ)
	Drafted: 26th Round, 2011	Signing Bonus: $575,000
	I feel like Zach Davies doesn’t get nearly the attention or hype he is starting to deserve. I get it. He’s 6’0 and maybe 150 pounds in a drenched t-shirt. The kid’s pitchability is advanced beyond his years though and he knows how to keep his pitches consistently in the lower half of the zone, resulting in above average groundball rates. He’s also an excellent athlete who in addition to pitching, was an everyday shortstop on his high school team. He’s been getting by and putting up results at Frederick more with guts and guile than overpowering stuff, which raises the question whether he’ll pass the AA test next season where hitters with more discerning batting eyes may be able to square him up more consistently. However, it’s worth noting that his changeup has made impressive strides this season and could give him at least one above average pitch to work with longterm, which will help his cause to stick as a starter if the rest of his arsenal remains meh. Durability is also a concern with pitchers with his slight frame but he’s held up fine so far and is only 20 years old. If he ever sees a velocity bump as he matures, he has a ceiling similar to Mike Leake of the Reds, another athletic, undersized right hander with a finesse four pitch arsenal.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
18	5	3	3.28	104.1	94	6	26	86	1.70	.244

13. Josh Hart – CF – GCL Orioles (R)

Photo By: Perfect Game	Born: 10/02/94	Age: 18
	Height: 5’11″	Weight: 175 lbs
	Bats/Throws: L/L	HS:  (GA)
	Drafted: 1st Round, 2013	Signing Bonus: $600,000
	If I ranked this list based on longterm ceiling, Hart would come in at 8, ahead of Walker, Hoes, and Ohlman. Hart has the potential to be a plus baserunner and plus defensive centerfielder and a decent hitter too, giving him a Michael Bourn profile if everything pans out. Alas, Hart was just drafted out of high school and has only played 13 games of rookie ball so I’m keeping his ranking conservative for now as he is a long ways away from his ceiling. If he tears up the GCL this Summer, which he hasn’t exactly done so far, not only will I feel much better about this pick (I wasn’t too thrilled on draft day but I’m starting to warm up to him), Hart will also be a under consideration for the Top Ten.

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
13	.250	48	12	0	7	1	0	7	8	.368	.271	.639

14. Adrian Marin – SS – Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Bats/Throws: R/R

Photo By: Ashley Marshall	Born: 5/23/94	Age: 19
	Height: 6’0″	Weight: 185 lbs
	Top 10 Short Season Rank: 1	HS:  (FL)
	Drafted: 3rd Round, 2012	Signing Bonus: $600,000
	I love Marin’s defensive ability – he projects to play a major league  caliber shortstop – and his enthusiasm for the game. I’m not sure what type of hitter he is yet. I have my doubts he’ll hit for any more than average power by shortstop standards so there will be a lot of pressure for him to develop a strong hit tool to be an everyday player. He’s holding his own at Delmarva which is very encouraging for a 19 year old. If he begins to post higher AVG’s as he moves up the ladder, he’ll find himself in the top ten. He’s also a strong baserunner.

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
82	.285	288	82	2	35	14	2	19	70	.335	.368	.704

15. Tyler Wilson – RHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Photo Courtesy of: Frederick Keys	Born: 9/25/89	Age: 23
	Height: 6’1″	Weight: 195 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 13	College: Virginia
	Drafted: 10th Round, 2011	Signing Bonus: $20,000
	Tyler Wilson, simply put, knows how to pitch and compete his ass off out there on the mound. He might be the most intelligent pitcher in the Orioles minors and seems like someone who I feel confident has the what it takes to succeed based on his video interviews. He throws a low 90’s fastball with some movement, and a low 80’s changeup and curveball. His stuff isn’t impressive but he knows how to spot it and is always a step ahead of the batter. Now that he is surviving and thriving at AA, “the proving grounds”, with a 5-1 record, 2.23 ERA, and .193 opponent AVG in his first 8 starts with the Baysox, Wilson looks like a potential option for a callup to the big league rotation sometime in 2014. His best case scenario could be a Miguel Gonzalez type of starter if his mediocre changeup improves. His high strikeout rates suggest he could make a solid major league reliever too if he lacks effectiveness against major league hitters the second time through the order.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
19	6	2	3.54	106.2	88	8	38	81	0.75	.222

16. Branden Kline – RHP – Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

	Born: 9/29/91	Age: 21
	Height: 6’3″	Weight: 195 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 9	College: Virginia
	Drafted: 2nd Round, 2012	Signing Bonus: $600,000
	Kline unfortunately had his season cut short after a nasty ankle injury in May. He may return to pitch some in August but regardless it has been a disappointing first year for the former Wahoo closer who really needs as much work as he can get on refining his delivery and command if the Orioles want him to succeed as a starter. He throws hard but without much movement, has a decent slider and developing change but seems more likely suited for middle relief longterm which has dropped his prospect stock for me.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
7	1	2	5.86	35.1	41	4	14	32	1.77	.289

17. Stephen Tarpley – LHP – GCL O’s (R)

Photo From: Scottsdale CC	Born: 2/17/93	Age: 20
	Height: 6’1″	Weight: 180 lbs
	Bats/Throws: L/L	College: Scottsdale CC
	Drafted: 3rd Round, 2013	Signing Bonus: $393,000
	Tarpley has finally made his professional debut, pitching a scoreless inning in the GCL on July 18. Athletic lefties that can touch 94 and have a chance to start don’t grow on trees, making Tarpley a good value in the third round and intriguing enough to crack the top 20. If he performs well this summer and shows better than expected command of his secondaries, he could move up a ahead of Kline and Wilson. He’s got some good “now stuff” but is a bit of a project in the making to remain a starter longterm.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—	—

18. Parker Bridwell – RHP – Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Photo by: Tracy Proffitt	Born: 8/02/91	Age: 21
	Height: 6’4″	Weight: 190 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 18	HS: Hereford (TX)
	Drafted: 9th Round, 2010	Signing Bonus: $625,000
	Up until a couple impressive starts in June that landed him on the BA hotsheet one week, Bridwell’s second go-round in the Delmarva rotation was met with more disappointment. The premium fastball is still there and I am content to see big strides made in the K/9 and BB/9 ratios. He’s still a project as a starting pitcher and will need to make significant strides in command as well as pitchability on the mound. He does have a decent floor as a potential power relief weapon if all else fails.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
13	5	6	5.04	69.2	70	3	28	71	0.86	.255

19. Lex Rutledge – LHP – Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Photo Courtesy of: Aberdeen Ironbirds	Born: 6/28/91	Age: 22
	Height: 6’1″	Weight: 195 lbs
	Top 10 Short Season Rank: 6	College: Samford
	Drafted: 6th Round, 2012	Signing Bonus: $196,000
	Lex Rutledge is the first and only prospect on this list who currently pitches as a reliever in the minors. Relief prospects really have to wow me to for me to rate them amongst the Top 20 prospects and that is what Rutledge has done this year at Delmarva. With a running fastball that touches min 90’s and an above average slider, Rutledge has been too much for Sally league hitters to handle and one would think he’s due to be moved up to Frederick at some point. He looks like a future weapon against left handed batters and has the overpowering stuff to be effective against right handed batters too, making him a potential setup reliever if he develops more consistent command of his arsenal.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
16	4	2	1.59	38	22	1	15	43	2.78	.167

20. Tim Berry – Frederick Keys – (A+)

	Born: 3/18/91	Age: 22
	Height: 6’3″	Weight: 180 lbs
	Preseason Rank: 15	HS: San Marcos (CA)
	Drafted: 50th Round, 2009	Signing Bonus: $125,000
	In his return to Frederick, Tim Berry has basically repeated but not bettered last years performance with the Keys. He still throws an average fastball that can touch 93, an above average sweeping curve and an average changeup. He throws strikes but has trouble mixing and spotting his pitches effectively, making him hittable at times when he falls behind in the count. Not confident he’ll pass the AA test but his ability to strike batters out, especially left handed batters, makes him an interesting bullpen guy if he doesn’t improve as a starter.

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
18	8	5	3.97	99.2	108	8	26	87	1.03	.277

HM/ Devin Jones – RHP, Glynn Davis – CF, Chance Sisco – C, Brady Wager – RHP, Miguel Chalas – RHP, Trey Mancini – 1B, Matt Taylor – LHP

Minorioles HOTSHEET (June)

The top performers for the month of June according to me:

1) Henry Urrutia – OF – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Age: 26

Top 20 Rank: HM

June Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	SO	OBP	SLG	OPS
23	.390	87	34	4	18	5	0	9	15	.443	.526	.969

Big Hank has become the poster child on my Minorioles HOTSHEET reports this season. That’s what happens when he’s been on a season long tear, batting .365 at Bowie before recently getting the call up to Norfolk on June 27. The organization seems to be very impressed with how quickly El Cubano has progressed after sitting out the past two years. If he continues to impress at Norfolk, there ought to be an opportuñity in Baltimore at some point this season. He’ll be playing on the World team in the Futures game on July 15.

2) Michael Ohlman – C/DH – Frederick Keys

Age: 22

Top 20 rank: 19

June Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
25	.356	90	32	5	17	8	2	15	24	.449	.656	1.105

Could not be happier with Big Mike’s breakout performance this season. He’s come a long way in a few short years from nobody to somebody and is proving last seasons impressive but small sample at Delmarva was not a fluke. He has an excellent major league approach at the plate and has shown the ability to make consistent contact. He’s also starting to tap into that impressive raw power more consistently with his only remaining question mark being whether his defensive skills are up to snuff to play catcher in the bigs. Look for him to make a big jump when I post my updated Top 20 list (coming soon).

3) Eddie Gamboa – RHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 28

Top 20 Rank: Unranked

June Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
5	3	2	2.10	34.1	18	1	11	29	1.50	.157

One of the better stories in the O’s minor leagues this year has been the development of Eddie Gamboa. He began the year a 28 year old non-prospect who with his previous arsenal, was likely destined to be a AAA lifer. Thanks to the discovery of two variations of a knuckleball, Gamboa has re-established himself as a prospect, especially considering his recent June dominance. He followed up 71/3 inning, 1 hit, 7 K performance on June 23 with a 7 inning no hitter on June 30. I would think he’s due to be moved up to Norfolk soon.

4) Eduardo Rodriguez – LHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 20

Top 20 Rank: 4

June Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
4	0	2	1.63	22	24	2	3	17	1.50	.253

E-Rod, at the ripe old age of 20, not only matched but bettered his performance from Delmarva at Frederick this season. He had a solid month of June with the Keys and finished with a 2.85 ERA in 85 1/3 IP with 78 H, 25 BB, and 66 K. Not only has a received a callup to AA, he has also caught the attention of the top prospect evaluators, being selected to pitch for the World team in the Futures game on July 15.

5) Lex Rutledge – LHP – Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Age: 22

Top 10 Short Season Rank: 6

June Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
5	1	1	1.84	14.2	11	1	4	22	2.67	.200

Lex Rutledge was too hot for Sally league hitters to handle in the month of June. Lex has been working mostly out of the pen for Delmarva this season and has caught my eye with his dominant strikeout and walk rates. He throws a mid 90’s sinker and a mid 80’s slider, both of which he has struggled mightily with command in the past. He showed more consistent control in June which is why he dominated. He has the potential to be a late inning asset out of the bullpen one day.

6) L.J. Hoes – LF – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Age: 23

Top 20 Rank: 5

June Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
27	.347	101	35	2	14	8	0	18	16	.450	.485	.935

Another scorching hot month for L.J. and his Hoes as the 23 year old continues to show he has nothing left to prove in the minors. We even saw some improved power production (.485 SLG) from L.J. who is currently blocked by a set Orioles outfield for the time being and may be expendable as trade bait this month. I’d hate to see the local kid go and I remain confident that he can become a solid regular one day. But, with the emergence of Hank Urrutia as a legit prospect, using Hoes as part of trade package isn’t a bad idea.

7) Zach Davies – RHP – Frederick Keys (High A)

Age: 20

Top 20 Rank: 11

June Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
5	0	1	2.48	29	28	1	10	27	2.00	.255

The slight right hander may not have won a game this month of June but he pitched perhaps his best month of baseball thus far in his pro career, posting above average strikeout and groundout numbers. He has shown impressive durability thus far for a slight 20 year old righty and even more impressive command and control of four solid average pitches. If he continues to pitch well, he’ll start garnering more deserved recognition as a top 10 prospect in the Orioles farm system. Many evaluators, including myself, see a ceiling similar to Mike Leake of the Reds if this kid continues to develop and get better.

8) Tim Berry – LHP – Frederick Keys (High A)

Age: 22

Top 20 Rank: 15

June Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
5	4	1	2.56	31.2	32	1	8	21	0.89	.267

After a brutal month of May, Tim Berry righted the ship in June. The hard throwing lefty still needs work on more consistent command of his pitches. Some starts he has it,other starts he’s way off. Adding a little movement, if possible, to his straight fastball would also do him wonders as it tends to be very hit table when left up in the zone. He’s 22 now and I was hoping he pitch well enough to maybe get a crack at AA, the true proving grounds, at some point this season. There’s still some projection left in his lanky frame so I’m willing to give him another year to put it all together as a starter.

9) Tyler Wilson – RHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 23

Top 20 Rank: 13

June Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
4	3	0	2.95	21.1	15	3	10	15	0.63	.190

At the beginning of the month Tyler Wilson was summoned to AA after posting average results at Frederick in April and May. The crafty former Wahoo is off to a fine start with Bowie posting a 2.95 ERA in June. Continuing to pass the dreaded AA test will be big for Wilson’s prospect stock as a potential backend starter in the MLB.

10) Torsten Boss – 2B – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 22

Top 10 Short Season Rank: 4

June Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	SO	OBP	SLG	OPS
21	.311	74	23	1	9	6	0	12	16	.407	.432	.839

Torsten Boss, the best name in the O’s farm system, had himself a fine rebound month of June after hitting under .230 in May. I’d like to see him bumped up to Frederick at some point. He continues to look like a prospect of interest IF he can hit at higher levels AND play adequate enough defense to remain a second basemen.

11) Parker Bridwell – RHP – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 21

Top 20 rank: 17

June Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
5	3	0	3.77	31	30	1	7	33	0.57	.250

The Orioles current strikeout leader on the season is the talented young Bridwell who, as mentioned in previous posts, is repeating Delmarva. Very encouraging progress has been made in his ability to get hitters to chase his fastball and slider. Still a long way to go in consistency and overall feel for pitching. He looks like a slightly better bet to stick as a starter and with a fastball that can touch the mid 90’s with some run, he always has the fallback option of an intriguing power reliever profile.

12) Caleb Joseph – C – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 27

Top 20 Rank: HM

June Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	SO	OBP	SLG	OPS
23	.310	87	27	4	17	6	0	4	14	.333	.517	.850

Catchers that can post above average power numbers are at a premium these days which is why Caleb Joseph’s breakout season at the ripe age of 27 is garnering more interest than the usual minor league veteran. His numbers against left handlers particularly stand out as he has triple slashed .449/.494/.739 in 69 at bats against them. He’s always drawn high remarks for his baseball rat personality and leadership in the clubhouse. If he continues to perform with the bat, he’ll get a chance to stick as an offensive minded backup.

– The Other Notes

Who Ain’t Hot…Uh Oh…

Xavier Avery – CF – AAA – The X-man hit .300 at AA before getting moved back up to Norfolk. The AAA results so far? Not good. He hit just .211 and struck out 23 times in 90 June at bats.

Mike Wright – RHP – AA – Mr. Wright was Mr. Wrong in the month of June (6.33 ERA, .295 AVG), a dissapointing development to see after going 4-0 with a 1.85 ERA in May.

Devin Jones – RHP – AA – I had been very impressed with Jones transition to AA ball throughout the month of May. The wheels came off the abandoned wagon in June as he posted an atrocious 9.53 ERA over 5 starts.

Brady Wager – RHP – A+ – Wager did work at Delmarva, earning a bump up to Frederick in June. Things haven’t gone as swimmingly for him since joining the Keys as his 6.41 June ERA indicates.

Christian Walker – 1B – A+ – Mr. Gamecock himself had been on a tear all season long until a little 1-31 stretch in June dropped his average down to .225 for the month. I think/hope he’ll rebound in July.

Prospects? The ‘Elder’ Delmarva Duo:

Tucker Nathans – UTL –

Friar Tuck slashed in at .293/.362/.463 during the month of June. At 24, he’s ‘old for the league’ but I’m not one to to use that as a crutch against someone being considered a prospect. I’ve been quite impressed with Nathans’s defensive versatility as well as his patient approach at the plate and solid power numbers. I also liked what I saw in this BP video. He has a nice quick power stroke and is a very good athlete (played both soccer and baseball at Fairfield) with a compact, muscular build. I think he’s worth keeping an eye on, especially when you consider the legendary Fred Ferreira signed him.

Creede Simpson – OF/1B/DH –

Simpson, 23, missed was on injury leave in May but has picked up right where he left off in April, hitting .315/.396/.490 on the season with 6 HR. The much improved K/BB ratio and HR output has caught my attention this year. He doesn’t offer the defensive versatility Nathans offers so he’ll have to prove he can hit like this at higher levels before entering the prospect discussion.

Aberdeen Spotlight:

Steven Brault – LHP – The 2013 11th round pick is off to good start. He throws around 90, 91 with an good slider and average changeup. He’s a pitch ability type who could be worth a follow when he makes his full season debut next year. For now, he’s what I call a ‘suspect’.

Janser Severino – RHP – Mid 90’s thrower putting up good numbers so far. Might be worth tracking this Summer. Makes his next start for Aberdeen tonight (July 3).

Nick Delmonico Update:

His batting average has cooled down (.259) but Nicky continues to demonstrate impressive power production as he knocked out 7 home runs alone during the month of June.

Tsuyoshi Wada Update:

The Tsunami has pitched better as of late (3 consecutive outings with 2 ER or less) and considering the ‘what have you done for me lately’ world we live in, he’s a couple more good starts from us putting his earlier stink bomb outings behind us. For now, he’s an expensive insurance option at AAA and should see some time in the Orioles bullpen come September.

Still on DL/ Jonathan Schoop – INF – AAA – Should be back post all star break

Back from DL/ Oliver Drake – RHP – AA – Lookin good so far in relief at Bowie. Sitting low 90’s with sink

Recently Traded:

Ty Kelly – 3B – AA – Now with Mariners

In case you missed it, Kelly was sent to the M’s in exchange for outfielder Eric Thames. Ty Kelly hit .327 over three levels in 2012, earning a spot at no. 16 on my Top 20 list. He hasn’t quite followed up that impressive breakout season, batting a respectable .280 at AA but with just one home run. He recently turned 25 and still has questionable defense by 3B standards. I don’t think we’ll regret letting him go, but I did like his baseball rat mentality and I could see him surfacing as a decent bench guy in the bigs with the Mariners.

Relief Help at AAA?

In case we need to call upon our bullpen depth, these three are the best options. Not necessarily good options, but the best of what we got down there in Virginia.

Jairo Asencio – RHP – The Closer – Jairo, 30, has notched 18 saves to go with a solid 2.34 ERA, a 36-7 K/BB ratio, and just 22 hits allowed in 34 2/3 innings. He throws a low-to-mid 90’s two seamer with an average slider and represents the best bullpen option at AAA.

Adam Russell – RHP – Setup – Russell, 30, is a tall righty who can throw hard with movement but well below average control has held him back from sticking in the majors. He’s having a good year though (2.34 ERA, great K and GB numbers), and apparently is throwing from a Low 3/4 slot now.

Mark Hendrickson – LHP – No, this isn’t a joke. Big Bird may still be of some use if there’s a need. He had a very solid month of June (2.93 ERA, .208 AVG) and the conversion to a sidearm reliever appears to be working. He’s old at 39 but has a chance at prolonging his career for another few seasons if he continues to pitch well from the sidearm slot.

Thats all I got this time. I’ll now shift my attention to completing an updated Top 20 list as well as working on my Orioles 2013 draftee profiles.

“Stay classy, not crassy, hon” – Chris Slade

Top Ten Short Season Prospects

I like to keep anyone who hasn’t played in full season ball (That isn’t a consensus Top 10 prospect) off the Top 20 until they have shown what they are capable of doing over a full season of work. That may sound stupid and unheard of to some but that’s my way of doing things and I don’t like change. Besides, there are countless example of guys who tear it up in the the short season leagues, then flame out in AA. Everyone, aside from Kevin Gausman and Brandon Kline, needs to show me what they can do at a full season level before I include them in my Top 20. I nearly made an exception for Adrian Marin too but I’m kinda iffy on his hit tool. He’d be in the 11 – 15 range. Same with Josh Hader who I need to see how he does as a starter.

Here are the Top Ten Short Season Prospects to keep an eye on as they make their way to full season ball

HM/ Sander Beck – RHP (Maryland), Jaime Esquivel – RHP, Elias Pinales – LHP, Tom Winegardner – RHP

10 – Rafael Moreno – RHP

Signed: Undrafted FA, Brazil, 2011 Birthplace: Adamanita, Sau Paolo, Brazil

DOB: 2/11/95 Age: 18 Height: 6’0″ Weight: 200

I don’t know a whole lot about Moreno but after scouring over the DSL Orioles roster he seems the most intriguing name to follow. Should be with the GCL O’s this year.

9 – Sebastian Vader – RHP

Drafted: 19th Round, 2010 High School: San Marcos HS

DOB: 6/03/92 Age: 20 Height: 6’4″ Weight: 175

Seabass is still more projection than results at this point but the athletic right hander is an interesting sleeper to follow if he increases his velocity. Should start out with Delmarva.

8 – Hector Veloz – 3B

Signed: Undrafted FA, Dominican Republic, 2011 DOB: 2/01/94 Age: 19

Height: 6’2″ Weight: 200 Birthplace: Santo Domingo, D.R. Throws: R Bats: R

Veloz recieved a 300 K bonus, a club record for a D.R. born player, in 2011. He bring a plus arm and plus power to the table. That’s about it. LONG way away from bigs. Should play at Aberdeen this Summer.

7 – Bennett Parry – LHP

Drafted: 40th Round, 2011 College: Cal State Northridge

DOB: 11/07/91 Age: 21 Height: 6’6″ Weight: 225

Parry is a nice sleeper bullpen prospect who doesn’t throw hard but relies on deception to miss bats. Will start out in the Shorebirds bullpen

6 – Brady Wager – RHP

Drafted: 9th Round, 2012 – College: Grand Canyon University

DOB: 11/17/90 Age: 22 Height: 6’3″ Weight: 190 Birthplace: Glendale, AZ

Wager is yet another intriguing sleeper who throws a low 90’s sinking fastball and has a chance to develop into an innings eating back of the rotation starter. Should be with Delmarva but may start out in the ‘pen.

5 – Lex Rutledge – LHP

Drafted: 6th Round, 2012 – College: Samford

DOB: 6/28/91  Age: 21  Height: 6’1″ Weight: 195

Doubt he sticks as a starter but as a reliever could have setup reliever upside if he improves his well below average command. He’ll start out in Delmarva’s bullpen

4 – Torsten Boss – 3B

Drafted: 8th Round, 2012 – College: Michigan State

DOB: 12/27/90  Age: 22  Height: 6’0″ Weight: 190

Torsten Boss is a solid ball player that can help a club in many ways with his versatility. Has the upside of an offensive minded Ty Wigginton type utility player. Should be with Delmarva, possibly Frederick in 2013.

 

3 – Christian Walker – 1B

Drafted: 4th Round, 2012 College: South Carolina

DOB: 3/28/91  Age: 22  Height: 6’0″ Weight: 220

The Gamecock himself! I’m excited the O’s took Walker who I saw play last April. He may not have huge power but he offers a nice mix of AVG and OBP and could end up a Jeff Conine type of player. Should start with Frederick

2 – Josh Hader – LHP

Also considered for top 20 list

Drafted: 19th Round, 2012 High School: Old Mill

DOB: 4/07/94   Age: 19  Height: 6’3″ Weight: 160

The local kid was the story of the year in the short season leagues going from unheralded 19th rounder to legitimate prospect overnight. There’s some high upside here if he performs like he did with Delmarva this year

1 – Adrian Marin – SS

– Almost included him with the top 20 list

Drafted: 3rd Round, 2012 High School: FL

DOB: 3/0894  Age: 19  Height: 6’0 Weight: 180   Bats: R Throws: R

Adrian Marin is the #1 short season prospect. He’ll be playing SS for Delmarva this year and has the upside of an everyday, defense first, SS in the bigs. Not sold he’ll hit for much power but we’ll see