Minorioles HOTSHEET (August)

With the minor league seasons coming to a close in the next week or so, this marks the finals HOTSHEET of the year, folks. After, I’m finished here, I will do end of season recaps for each affiliate.

Who had the hottest month of August? One of the Orioles more exciting young lefthanders to come through the system…

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

Age: 20

Top 20 Rank: 4

August Numbers:

GS	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
6	3	1	2.94	33.2	30	1	9	35	0.82	.236

After appearing on the “not-list” in July during his first taste of AA ball, E-Rod made an adjustment which I suggested he would, showing much better control this month. Much better control = much better results with a talented arm like Rodriguez. Look for him to crack my Top 100 list going into the 2014 season.

2) Mike Wright – RHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 23

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: 10

August Numbers:

GS	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
6	3	1	2.29	35.1	37	3	7	35	0.94	.268

Mike Wright finished the season on a very strong note. Bowie manager Gary Kendall said in an interview with Steve Melewski, “He has a good fastball and his slider and changeup have made some strides. He is a good three-pitch guy and he is still developing his curveball,” Kendall said. “He has gone deeper into games and maintained his stamina and arm strength through the year. His maturity from a year ago is the key to his success.”

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

Age: 27

Top 20 Rank: HM

August Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	SO	OBP	SLG	OPS
30	.353	119	42	4	18	8	0	9	18	.392	.521	.913

Caleb Joseph’s Age 26/27 breakout season with Bowie ended with a tremendous month of August. He’s a fringe prospect but I think he’ll get a chance with the Orioles or some other team as a bench player who can back up catcher and first if/when needed. His ability to crush left handed pitching intrigues me.

4) Dariel Alvarez – OF – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 24

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: HM

August Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	SO	OBP	SLG	OPS
20	.346	73	26	4	10	4	1	4	10	.390	.603	.993

The Orioles latest Cuban signee of to a nice start to his professional career. The numbers listed above span three levels: GCL Orioles, Frederick Keys, and Bowie Baysox. It is worth noting that while he obliterated Rookie and Single A ball as someone with his experience should, he has only batted .200 in 25 at bats with Bowie. He’ll be heading off to the Arizona Fall League in October. Should be interesting to hear the reports on him there.

5) Michael Ohlman – C/DH – Frederick Keys (High A)

Age: 22

Mid-Season Top 20 rank: 9

August Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	SO	OBP	SLG	OPS
29	.343	102	35	1	7	12	0	15	27	.433	.490	.923

Odd month for Ohlman in that he smacked 12 doubles and a home run yet only drove in 7 runs. None-the-less, it is a strong finish to Ohlman’s huge breakout season that has turned him from interesting sleeper to legitimate top ten prospect overnight.

6) Trey Mancini – 1B – Aberdeen Ironbirds (A-)

Age: 21

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: HM

August Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	SO	OBP	SLG	OPS
27	.344	96	36	2	10	5	1	12	12	.418	.481	.863

Back to back strong hitting performances by Mancini in July and August. As mentioned in his draftee profile, I’ve been a big Mancini fan going back to earlier this Spring when he tore the cover off the ball at Notre Dame. The dude knows how to freakin hit and has some major league pop in that bat. If he can tap into that raw power more consistently and continues to hit like this at higher levels, the Orioles have themselves a real interesting prospect and a great find in the 8th round.

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

Age: 21

Mid-Season Top 20 rank: 17

August Numbers:

GS	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
5	1	1	3.73	31.1	31	1	8	34	0.81	.258

A good finish to the year for the talented righthander highlighted by an Aug. 15 start in which he pitched 8 shutout innings of two-hit ball with 12 strikeouts and no walks. Bridwell remains something of an enigma going forward as a starter with his command inconsistencies a concern. However, time is still on his side, and no one in the organization doubts his natural abilities; just a matter of refining his approach to pitching and feel for command. He always has an intriguing fallback option as a power reliever if starting doesn’t work out.

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

Age: 20

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: 12

August Numbers:

GS	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
6	2	4	3.60	35	37	3	9	34	0.68	.268

Zach Davies lost four games which means nothing when grading him as a prospect. He pitched well showing an impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio and remains a promising young arm to watch at AA next year to see if his average arsenal plays up against better hitters.

9) Josh Stinson – RHP – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Age: 25

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: HM

August Numbers:

GS	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
5	2	1	1.82	24.2	15	2	13	17	0.86	.176

Stinson finished his season at Norfolk strong although his 4.46 FIP suggests his ERA was a bit fluky which is why he finds himself at number 9 on the Hotsheet. Still, Stinson has improved greatly in his performance and consistency from start to start at Norfolk this year, pitching to a 2.59 ERA and holding opponents to a .199 AVG over his final ten starts. He looks like a decent long relief option for the Orioles now that he has been recalled to the majors. His best pitch is his fastball which can touch 93-94 MPH with average movement in shorter stints.

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

Age: 22

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: 20

August Numbers:

GS	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
6	2	1	3.55	33	33	4	13	21	1.24	.256

Tim Berry finished the season strong. I would have liked to see him get some time at AA but I’ m guessing the Orioles brass wanted to see him stick at one level all year and learn to dominate consistently before giving him the big jump to AA. He’s an interesting prospect who has made strides in his strike throwing ability. He flashes quality stuff but with average at best command and will need to better neutralize right handed batters if he’s going to pass the AA test next season.

Who’s Not Hot

Jonathan Schoop – 2B – AAA – Ready or not here he comes as Schoop has been summoned to the majors. He didn’t fare to well in August, batting just .239/.268/.376 with a mediocre 3-to-25 Strikeout/Walk ratio over 117 at bats.

Devin Jones – RHP – AA – In his final 6 starts in august, Jones pitched to a 5.88 ERA over 33.2 Innings, with 39 hits, 6 HR, and 17 BB’s allowed.

Tyler Wilson – RHP – AA – Wilson also scuffled down the stretch after a strong month of July: 5.60 ERA over 27.1 Innings, with 33 hits, and 4 HR allowed.

Glynn Davis – CF – High A – Davis continued to show no punch with the bat, hittng .217 in August with no home runs.

Matt Taylor – LHP – Low A – After earning the top spot for July’s Hotsheet, Taylor wet the bed in August pitching to a 6.03 ERA over 6 starts.

Other Notes

Ironbirds Pitcher of the Month: Hunter Harvey – RHP

August Numbers:

GS	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
3	0	1	2.25	12	11	0	4	15	2.33	.239

Hunter Harvey has lived up to hype I created thus far, with a several impressive pitching performances between the GCL and Aberdeen.

Ironbirds Hitter of the Month: Conor Bierfeldt – OF

August Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	SO	OBP	SLG	OPS
24	.345	87	30	5	18	4	2	14	22	.441	.667	1.108

Big Bier had himself one heluva August. While he looks more like a solid organizational type than a legit prospect (which is why he wasn’t featured on the Hotsheet), he does have an above average power tool going for him which makes him an intriguing name to follow next year. Nice find by the scouting department in the 29th round.

Minorioles HOTSHEET (JULY)

It’s that time again to recap how who had the best month down on the Orioles family farm in the form of a Baseball America inspired prospect hotsheet.

1) Matt Taylor – LHP – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 22

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: HM

July Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
6	1	3	1.85	39	31	0	14	26	1.97	.220

The best performer amongst the minor league pitching prospects in July is Matt Taylor. He has flown under the radar because he is repeating a level, with the Orioles stretching him out as a starter this year. The results have been pretty good as he learns to better control his 88-90 MPH sinking fastball. Ultimately, I think his best fit is in the bullpen but he has earned the right to continue working as a starter at higher levels.

2) Trey Mancini – 1B – Aberdeen Ironbirds (A-)

Age: 21

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: HM

July Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
27	.346	104	36	1	15	9	1	6	17	.383	.481	.863

Mancini makes his debut on the Hotsheet which should tell you I now view him as a legitimate enough prospect worthy enough of inclusion. He had a tremendous month of July.

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

Age: 23

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: 15

July Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
6	3	1	2.27	35.2	28	3	4	27	0.53	.214

With an average arsenal, Wilson still thrived at AA in July, proving he is a legitimate prospect with his above average command and pitching intellect.

4) Adrian Marin – SS – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 19

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: 14

July Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
22	.321	81	26	1	5	3	0	4	18	.353	.395	.748

Marin’s best month so far as a young professional.

5) Mike Wright – RHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 23

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: 10

July Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
5	2	0	2.12	29.2	31	1	6	26	1.03	.272

After appearing in the “not-sheet” in June, Mike “wrighted” the ship with a strong July showing.

6) Michael Ohlman – C/DH – Frederick Keys (High A)

Age: 22

Mid-Season Top 20 rank: 9

July Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
26	.270	100	27	6	19	4	0	12	24	.360	.490	.850

Ohlman cooled off a bit from the monster June performance put still showed an above average power and patience combo that makes him a very intriguing prospect going forward.

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

Age: 22

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: 20

July Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
5	2	2	3.77	31	27	2	5	26	1.91	.231

Tim Berry with another good string of outings in July. I’d like to see him bumped up to the AA testing grounds soon as he has nothing left to prove at Frederick.

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

Age: 20

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: 12

July Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
5	1	2	4.61	27.1	27	1	5	30	1.38	.262

The ERA isn’t pretty but Davies worked another solid month allowing a single home run and posting an impressive 30-to-5 K/BB ratio in 27 innings. The kid knows how to pitch. Fascinated to see how the AA test goes for him next year, considering his average arsenal.

9) Devin Jones – RHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 22

Mid-Season Top 20 Rank: HM

July Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
4	0	1	4.50	18	16	1	7	18	2.30	.239

Good rebound for Jones whose June numbers were an absolute dumpster fire. I especially like the impressive combination of groundouts and strikeouts. His sinking fastball-slider combo will translate well to a major league bullpen if he learns to more consistently command them as well as control his emotions better in pressure innings. Doubtful, he’ll stick as a starter.

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

Age: 21

Mid-Season Top 20 rank: 17

July Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
6	2	2	4.22	32	27	4	20	29	1.56	.225

The walk totals are ugly but Bridwell continues to get good strikeout and opponent AVG numbers and…I couldn’t really find anyone else deserving of rounding out the top ten. (Note: Josh Hader would have made this list BUT he was traded…sad face)

The Not Sheet

Eduardo Rodriguez – LHP – Struggled with control in his first four starts at Bowie, surrendering 15 walks, 4 home runs, in 26.2 innings pitched.

Kevin Gausman – RHP – AAA – 0-1 with a 5.40 ERA in 11.2 innings pitched in July.

Eddie Gamboa – RHP – AAA – Serious control issues with the knuckler lately; 7.58 ERA in four AAA starts.

Glynn Davis – CF – Hit just .224 in July; continues to show little power production

Other Notes

Ironbirds Pitcher of the Month: Steven Brault – LHP

July Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
5	0	1	0.56	16	12	0	1	15	1.50	.214

Brault has been awesome for the I-birds. I could see him pitching his way into a left handed relief role in the majors one day. Not a bad find at all in the 11th round.

Ironbirds Hitter of the Month: Mike Yastrzemski – OF

July Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
26	.344	90	31	2	12	8	2	12	17	.438	.544	.983

Not to take away from the great numbers but Yaz is clearly too advanced for the NY-Penn league with his four years of playing experience in the SEC. We’ll see how he does at more appropriate levels of competition for his polished game before calling him a legitimate prospect.

Lighting it up in the GCL: Chance Sisco – C – It’s a 50 at bat sample but 2013 2nd rounder has showed great feel for hitting with the bat with a .388 AVG while drawing a very positive 10-to-8 K/BB ratio. Will be watching him closely at Delmarva next year (assuming he makes that jump).

Back From the Dead DL – Jonathan Schoop – 2B – The Orioles top hitting prospect has returned to AAA where he has already hit four bombs in his first seven games back. “Stay healthy and we’ll see you in Baltimore in September.” – Sincerely, me.

Promotion Alert: Christian Walker – 1B – Mr. Gamecock got the call up to AA after the Future’s Game and has hit a modest .242 in his first 62 at bats with five doubles. I’m expecting him to pick things up in August as he makes adjustments.

Remember Me? Oliver Drake – RHP – Finally healthy again, the 26 year old has taken to his closer role at Bowie very well, pitching to a 1.64 ERA in 22 innings with 27 strikeouts. If left unprotected, I could see him being a hot target in the Rule V Draft this Winter. His 91-94 MPH sinker and slider combo is intriguing.

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 Report, MAY 14

Last time I wrote this column, I delivered something of a promise that the next HOTSHEET would appear on MAY 11. What went wrong?

In a word: Nature

Mother nature and her rainy wet nightmares fouled everyone’s schedules up. Several minor league games have been postponed in the past two weeks causing me to wait an extra few days to meet my little ten game threshold between writing each column. It’s not an exact science, folks. Each of our four minor league levels is different; in this particular case, the location each level has been playing the past couple weeks. Some teams may have played less than and some teams may have played more than ten games in the time span from my last column.

– Whatev –

I do things my way around here because I own the site. Therefore, I decided today, my birthday, would be the new and improved appropriate date to do the latest, freshest, hippest, Orioles Minor League Hotsheet. Not that any one of my ten readers cares, but I thought I would bring attention to the situation. Nevermind, MTV already took care of that.

Moving on. Without further ado, the number one hottest Orioles minor league prospect in the past 10+ games has been none other than EL CUBANO himself..

1) Henry Urrutia – OF – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 26

Top 20 Rank: HM

Last Ten Games:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.390	41	16	0	8	8	0	2	6	.419	.585	1.004

Henry has shown little to no signs of rust after not playing organized baseball for over two years. This is a very encouraging start and he could enter the Orioles plans later this year if he continues to dominate.

2) Torsten Boss – 3B – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 22

Top 10 Short Season Rank: 4

Last Ten Games:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.343	35	12	2	10	4	1	4	13	.410	.686	1.096

Torsten is an early candidate to be moved up to Frederick as he continues his offensive barrage. He’s also an early candidate to go far in Minor League Moniker Madness contest for best name in the minors.

3) Jonathan Schoop – SS – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Age: 21

Top 20 Rank: 3

Last Ten Games:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.349	43	15	2	6	1	0	0	8	.349	.512	.860

Schoop, the Orioles top hitting prospect, has found his groove at AAA after a really disappointing start in April.

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

Age: 23

Top 20 Rank: 5

Last Ten Games:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.353	34	12	0	2	3	0	6	4	.476	.441	.917

Great to see L.J. continuing to rip the ball at AAA. He doesn’t offer much power production but he could hold his own in the bigs right now and I imagine he’s next in line for a callup if one of the Orioles outfielders gets injured.

5) Xavier Avery – CF – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 23

Top 20 Rank: 10

Last Ten Games: 7 for 7 in SB’s

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.350	40	14	0	3	2	0	6	8	.435	.400	.835

X is giving it to AA pitching lately, as he should be considering he played at AAA last season. What’s really encouraging with his performance is the low strikeout rate as well as the perfect 7 for 7 in stolen bases. The leadoff hitter upside is still there but a much more consistent feel for hitting needs to be shown before he can get there.

6) Matt Taylor – LHP – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 22

Top 20 Rank: HM

Last Two Starts:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
2	0	2	1.59	11.1	10	0	7	10	2.83	.238

Who’s Matt Taylor, you ask? He’s a sinkerball lefty with control issues but a promising upside as a late inning reliever (don’t think he’ll remain a starter in the long run) if he can repeat his mechanics more consistently and refine the command of his sinker-slider combo. He’s repeating Low-A so I expect him to dominate as he has his last two starts even if he’s taken the loss in both outings. Minor League wins and losses don’t mean s**t anyway.

7) Kevin Gausman – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 22

Top 20 Rank: 2

Last Two Starts:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
2	0	1	2.31	11.2	9	1	3	10	1.08	.214

KG, our top healthy pitching prospect has been great his last two outings. He continues to display premium stuff and the results as a whole on the year are encouraging for future success. Not to complain, but it would be nice to see him string together a few utterly dominant outings and show up higher on the hotsheet next time.

8) Josh Hader – LHP – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 19

Top 10 Short Season Rank: 2

Last Two Starts:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
2	0	0	2.70	12	7	1	4	14	0.75	.200

The local kid continues to improve his already rapidly improving prospect stock with results like his last two starts. Once again, he’s a very intriguing arm to keep an eye on how he develops.

9) Mike Wright – RHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 23

Top 20 Rank: 7

Last Two Starts:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
2	2	0	2.25	12	13	0	1	11	0.50	.271

I think of Mike Wright as a heavy user of low 90’s two seamers which is why I’m surprised to see him have an alarmingly high fly ball rate. Never-the-less, he has been pretty solid his last two outings which is great to see after his awful performances to begin the season.

10) Glynn Davis – CF – Frederick Keys (High A)

Age: 21

Top 20 Rank: 14

Last Ten Games:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.306	36	11	0	8	3	1	7	5	.419	.444	.863

Glynn struggled mightily to make contact throughout April aside from one game he hit two home runs in. So, its good to see that the bat might be heating up with his strong performance as of late. I particularly like the 7 walks to only 5 strikeouts which suggests to me he is seeing the ball well.

Who’s Not Hot? Uh Oh

– Brenden Webb – RF – .211 with 0 home runs in his last ten games with the Keys which is actually an improvement over last time but still not what I want to see.

– Zach Clark – RHP – 13.50 ERA in first start with Bowie. He’s converting to a knuckleballer so the immediate results won’t be pretty. Hopefully, they improve throughout the season.

– Devin Jones – RHP – 7.91 ERA in his last two starts with Bowie. A talented arm with a solid sinking fastball, the lack of a quality secondary pitch to neutralize lefty hitters is hurting him as lefties are hitting an unacceptable .357 off him as opposed to righties (.250).

Other Highlights

Dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde Award: Branden Kline – RHP – Shorebirds (Low-A)

The Orioles 2012 2nd round pick has been an utter frustration thus far at Delmarva. His last two starts demonstrate why:

Start 1 – (6 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 0 HR, 1 BB, 5 K, 1.33 GO/AO, .143 AVG) – Brilliance

Start 2 – (4.1 IP, 9 H, 5 ER, 2 HR, 1 BB, 2 K, 0.83 GO/AO, .409 AVG) – Stinkbomb

Back from the Dead DL: Nick Delmonico – 3B – Keys (A+) – Yes! Good to see one of top young hitters (and no. 1 on the initial hotsheet in April) return to action. He picked up right where he left off, hitting two home runs in his first two games back.

Promotion Alert: Christian Walker – 1B – Frederick Keys (A+) – After batting .353 with 3 HR’s in 31 games at Delmarva, Walker finally got the promotion to Frederick. To put it simply, It’s about damn time. Every Gamecock and their mother knew that he belonged with the Keys to begin the season. He still has the question mark of whether he’ll hit for enough power required to be an everyday 1B in the bigs, but there’s no doubt he knows how to make consistent contact.

Not (Technically) A Prospect Player Spotlight: Yamaico Navarro – 2B – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.341	44	15	0	1	4	0	7	9	.392	.729	1.121

Keep an eye on Navarro who has been smacking the ball lately and could get a chance to relieve overmatched Ryan Flaherty of his duties (as opposed to rushing Schoop) at some point this season. He has previous MLB experience (therefore not eligible for the hotsheet which focuses on prospects) but is only 25 and was once highly thought of in the Red Sox farm system.

Old Man and the Tides: Jason Pridie – OF – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.354	48	17	5	8	3	0	3	9	.392	.729	1.121

By far, the most torrid hitter in the minors lately has been Pridie, a journeyman 29 year old outfielder, who was once a semi-decent prospect in the Rays farm system. He’s still too much of a free swinger (9 BB’s, 33 K’s) for my liking and his impressive performance this year simply tells me he knows how to mash a AAA fastball. I wouldn’t get too excited about him unless his recent power outburst proves not to be a fluke.

Minorioles Hotsheet Report: MAY 1

It’s been ten games. It’s time to see who’s made adjustments and who’s fallen back down to earth since last time.

This time the hottest player in the Orioles minors is a guy who was hitting below .200 last time but has picked up tremendously since, last year’s 8th Round pick out of Michigan State…

1) Torsten Boss – 3B – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 22

Top 10 Short Season Rank: 4

Last Ten Games:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.351	37	13	2	7	2	1	4	7	.415	.622	1.036

Torsten Boss, one of the cooler names in the Orioles farm system, has been hotter than a bunsen burner in his last ten games at Delmarva. He’s often been described by scouts and orioles analysts as a ‘jack-of-all-trades’ type who can play multiple positions (1B-2B-3B-OF) and do a little bit of everything offensively, but nothing particularly great. Good to see him shake off the early season rust and start hitting the ball with authority. At age 22, he could be a candidate to move up to Frederick mid-season.

2) Christian Walker – 1B – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 22

Top 10 Short Season Rank: 3

Last Ten Games:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.343	35	12	1	7	3	0	3	5	.425	.514	.939

Like I mentioned last time, as a proud Gamecock myself, I am stoked to see Christian Walker continuing to tear it up for the Shorebirds. Clearly, he’s too advanced for this level and I expect him to get the bump up to Frederick sometime in May, early June at the latest. His .360 AVG and .440 OBP on the season lead all Orioles minor league hitters.

3) Kevin Gausman – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 22

Top 20 Rank: 2

Last Two Starts:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
2	0	2	1.42	12.2	11	0	1	11	1.38	.239

Gausman has been a tough luck loser in his last two starts but we aren’t about wins and losses when it comes to evaluating pitching prospects. Let me tell you what we are about: Scouting Reports and Peripheral Numbers. Gausman has an excellent strikeout-to-walk ratio and groundout-to-air out ratio in his last two outings and has been clocked consistently in the mid 90’s. He’s doing just fine, folks.

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

Age: 23

Top 20 Rank: 5

Last Ten Games:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.342	38	13	0	12	5	0	3	6	.395	.474	.869

L.J. and his Hoes have heated up recently after a slow start to the season. Like many of the Norfolk hitters, his numbers are significantly better on the road away from the cavernous Harbor Park, which is like the AAA equivalent of the Mariners home field. This little snippet of performance is a step in the right direction. If L.J. keeps hitting consistently, he’ll enter the Orioles plans at some point this season.

5) Brady Wager – RHP – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 22

Top 10 Short Season Rank: 6

Last Two Starts:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
2	1	0	2.38	11.1	10	0	3	11	10.50	.233

I’d place a decent wager that many aren’t familiar with this guy. If he continues to pitch like his last two starts, he’ll start to get more press. Last year’s 9th Round pick out of D2 Grand Canyon University, Wager has dominated with his low 90’s sinker, showing impressive groundball numbers as well as a high strikeout rate over his last two outings. While probably a potential bullpen arm in the long run, he’s an intriguing guy to keep an eye on as a starter this season.

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

Age: 22

Top 20 Rank: 15

Last Two Starts:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
2	2	0	3.28	11	12	2	1	14	1.38	.239

Still a little early to declare anything, but once again, Tim Berry, whom I suggested could be in for a breakout season in his prospect profile, looks like he is doing just that. I haven’t seen him pitch, but I assume his command has dramatically improved as his increased strikeout rate, low walk rate, and much lower opponent batting AVG indicate. He now leads all Orioles minor league starters (even Gausman) with his 35 K’s in 28 innings pitched.

7) Jonathan Schoop – SS – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Age: 21

Top 20 Rank: 3

Last Ten Games:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.324	34	11	0	8	4	0	5	7	.425	.441	.866

Schoop got off to a miserable start, prompting an outrage over the front office’s decision to promote him to AAA after holding his own, but definitely not dominating AA pitching last year. Simmer down, everyone. The front office knows what they’re doing. Schoop may be young for the level but it looks like he’s starting to make an adjustment as his last ten games suggest. Hopefully, this isn’t a flash in the pan.

8) Gregory Lorenzo – CF – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 21

Top 20 Rank: HM

Last Ten Games:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.333	42	14	1	3	2	1	0	10	.326	.500	.826

Who is Gregory Lorenzo you ask? He’s an athletic young Dominican outfielder who takes a ton of aggressive hacks in the batter’s box, which is working to some degree in Low A ball, but will probably give him trouble against advanced pitchers in the upper minors. He needs to learn how to work the count more and draw a walk every once in a while, if that’s not too much too ask. Disclaimer: It isn’t. He’s fast and can steal bases but doesn’t offer much power upside. If continues to hit for respectable averages, he might profile as a 4th outfielder type one day.

9) Mike Wright – RHP – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 23

Top 20 Rank: 7

Last Two Starts:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
2	2	0	3.28	11	9	0	6	9	0.77	.225

After starting the season on a disastrous note in his first three starts, it appear Mr. Wright is starting to find his groove. I’d like to see better control but his last two starts have been pretty solid. How effective he pitches this year at AA and possibly AAA could determine his future as a starter or reliever with the O’s.

10) Zach Clark – RHP – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Age: 29

Top 20 Rank: HM

Last Two Starts:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
2	1	1	3.28	11	11	0	4	8	5.00	.275

Here’s another pitcher who was roughed up a bit in his first three starts before finding his groove recently. The Orioles have taken notice and summoned him as an extra reliever for the Mariners series. He could possibly start this weekend in Anaheim and if he does, I will do a “Welcome To The Show” Profile on him.

Henry Urrutia (OF) Update: El Cubano Defecto is actually playing in minor league baseball games. Yep, it only took forever, but dammit he finally got his Work Visa, showed up to spring training, and now has been assigned to AA Bowie where he is batting .286 with a couple home runs in his first 9 games.

Who’s Not Hot…Uh Oh…

– Adrian Marin – SS – .105 AVG over his last ten games with the Shorebirds. Yo, Adrian. What’s up?!?!

– Russ Canzler – 3B/OF – .176 Avg over his last ten games with Norfolk. But..he has dropped a couple bombs and drawn 8 walks opposed to 7 strikeouts in that span.

– Glynn Davis – CF – .162 AVG over his last ten games with the Keys. Only hitting .204 on the season. C’mon Glynn, we expect better than this.

– Brenden Webb – RF – .148 AvG over his last ten games with the Keys. He has already K’d 27 times in 81 at bats. This is my reward for showing faith and including him at no. 20 on my prospect list.

– Parker Bridwell – RHP – 10.00 ERA in last two starts for the Shorebirds – He appeared in the hotsheet last time. Now, he’s reverted to his old ways of suck last year, finding himself in the ‘notsheet’ this time. The good news is he has shown a big improvement in his strikeout rate so far on the season.

– Branden Kline – RHP – 12.22 ERA in his last two starts. We knew he’d be a work in progress as a starter but I figured he’d at least show some dominance in low A ball. Instead he’s struggled big time with the only positive being his impressive groundball rate. It’s possible the coaches are working on a delivery overhaul with him (much needed) which could explain the poor early season results. I think he’ll get better as the season bears on.

Dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde Award: Eduardo Rodriguez – LHP – His last two starts are as follows:

– Start 1 – (7 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 1 BB, 6 K, 1.80 GO/AO, .167 AVG) – Straight dominance, hon

– Start 2 – (4 IP, 6 H, 7 R, 5 ER, 5 BB, 4 K, 1.67 GO/AO, .333 AVG) – Ouch, babe

If we see more of start 1 and less of start 2 from E-Rod this season, we have ourselves a keeper.

Relief Pitcher of the Month: Miguel Chalas – RHP

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
6	0	0	1.65	16.1	9	1	6	18	1.14	.164

Miggy Chalas (who is 20 years old) is repeating Low A, this time as a reliever, and the results have been great so far. He’s primarily a fastball-slider guy, with the fastball touching the mid-90’s at times.

Old Man and the Sea Tides – A Freddy Garcia (RHP) Update:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
3	3	0	1.52	23.2	14	2	0	12	1.59	.171

Freddy, 36 years young, has put on a clinic in his last three starts (shown above) on how to work ahead in the count and pitch deep into games. I’m not the biggest Garcia fan in the world, but I think he’s worth a look-see as a potential innings eater #5 type for the O’s, something the staff could really use considering the inability of the starters to pitch deep into games so far this season

That’s it for now. I’ll be doing this again around May 10-12. Get it. Got it. Good

The Orioles Minor League Hotsheet

Here’s the lowdown on how this entry and future entries of this nature are going to work…You see, I like inspiration. When I see an idea I like, I try to emulate it and make it my own. Each week on Fridays, Baseball America does a column called the Prospect Hot Sheet where they highlight the hottest prospects in all the minor leagues. That folks, is the inspiration for this gnarly little column I’m starting with the focus being on the “who’s hot, who’s not” of Oriole prospects. I’m going to write a hotsheet entry after every ten minor league games though so that I can analyze 10 game samples. We are now over ten games into the season for all four Orioles affiliates. Hence, it is time to debut the Orioles prospect hot sheet and check out which players are off to the best starts thus far.

Note: Organizational filler types or players with extended major league experience (like Jair Jurrjens) won’t be included in these lists. However, those worth mentioning will be mentioned separately. I want to try to keep the focus on the prospects. I’m a man of the people and I’m a man of the prospects.

Without further ado, here are the ten prospects off to the hottest starts in the Orioles minor leagues:

1) Nick Delmonico – 3B – Frederick Keys (High A)

Age: 20

Top 20 Rank: 6

The Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.333	36	12	2	9	4	0	9	8	.467	.611	1.078

This is a fantastic start – love the 9 BB to 8 K ratio in particular – to see from our prized hitting prospect and former 1.5 million bonus baby, Nick Delmonico. An offensive breakout season along with favorable reports on his 3B defense could establish himself as a Top 100 prospect at the end of the season. But, lets not get ahead of ourselves. This is a small (but promising) sample after all.

2) Russ Canzler – 3B/1B/OF – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Age: 27

Top 20 Rank: Unranked

The Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
13	.346	52	18	3	13	4	1	6	15	.407	.635	1.041

He may be 27 but Russ Canzler still meets rookie qualifications so, “technically speaking”, he’s a prospect. He’s been the hottest hitter at Norfolk so far and with Conor Jackson’s retirement – could be next in line for a call up to the Orioles if a spot on the bench arises. He’s got some pop and technically offers defensive versatility but is not to be confused as a great defender at any of the positions he plays. I wasn’t too impressed with his at bats I saw in Spring Training and he’s never been rated highly as a prospect. Seems like AAA depth more than anything. Nevertheless, nice to see him performing well.

3) Christian Walker – 1B – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 22

Top 10 Short Season Rank: 3

The Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
13	.354	48	17	2	8	0	0	6	7	.429	.479	.908

My goodness. As a proud Gamecock myself, those early season numbers my boy Christian Walker has put up so far are like eye candy to me. It’s great to see a dominant, polished college hitter like Walker dominate Low A like I expected. If Walker keeps this up, his stay in Delmarva should be a brief one, especially with Jason Esposito keeping the first base seat warm for him at Frederick with his sterling .194 AVG.

4) Josh Hader – LHP – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Hader’s gonna hate

Age: 19

Top 10 Short Season Rank: 2

The Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
2	1	0	O.82	11	4	0	3	10	1.30	.111

Hader enters this season has perhaps the most intriguing sleeper prospect in the organization. If you don’t know the story by now, the Orioles took a flier on Hader in the 19th Round out of Old Mill high school here in Maryland, signed him, and watched him suddenly go from 85-87 in high school to 89-93 overnight after getting him on a long tossing program. With a deceptive low 3/4 arm angle that allows for great movement and deception on his pitches, Hader has brought last year’s short season dominance with him to full season Delmarva in his first two starts.

5) Josh Stinson – RHP – Norfolk Tides (AAA)

Age: 25

Top 20 Rank: Not Eligible

The Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
2	1	0	0.77	11.2	10	1	4	10	0.91	.244

Let’s be honest. How many people besides me are aware that Stinson is a proud member of the Orioles 40 man roster? I’d venture to say very few. That’s right, Stinson was claimed off waivers from the Athletics on April 4th and quietly assigned to Norfolk where he has pitched great in his first two starts as the Tides 5th starter. He throws in the low-to-mid 90’s with average secondaries and could be a long reliever candidate at some point this season.

6) Xavier Avery – CF – Bowie Baysox (AA)

Age: 23

Top 20 rank: 10

The numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
14	.333	60	20	1	6	6	1	5	18	.394	.517	.911

X is currently giving it to AA pitching, as he should be considering he played the entire 2012 season a level up at AAA. The high number of strikeouts bothers me and Xavier is notorious for getting off to hot starts before hitting a wall in the second half of the season. However, it’s still nice to see Xavier dominating after essentially being forced to AA due to the outfield depth surplus at AAA.

7) Wynston Sawyer – C – Delmarva Shorebirds (A)

Age: 21

Top 20 rank: Unranked

The numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
11	.349	43	15	0	4	4	1	4	10	.417	.488	.905

Sawyer put up a pretty sub par showing last year at Delmarva so it’s encouraging to see him start the year hot in his repeat season. He’s not a highly thought of prospect but he’s still young and an unexpected big season from him could put himself on the radar as a sleeper to watch.

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

Age: 21

Top 20 rank: 17

The Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
3	1	1	2.30	15.2	13	0	5	14	1.13	.217

Another youngster repeating a level and off to a promising start as we would hope to see – because he’s repeating the level! Last year was a disaster at Delmarva for Bridwell; one of the most talented arms in the system but a big work in progress. It’s a small sample of course but it appears the hard work he put in the offseason while living with the Bundy’s is paying off.

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

Age: 22

Top 20 Rank: 15

The Numbers:

G	W	L	ERA	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
3	0	1	3.18	17	11	1	3	21	0.93	.180

Berry has been a favorite sleeper of mine the past few years and the early season strikeout rate spike is both a pleasant surprise and a potential indicator of a breakout season. He could be a candidate to move up to Bowie midway through the year if he keeps performing well.

10) Adrian Marin – SS – Delmarva Shorebirds (Low A)

Age: 19

Top 10 Short Season Rank: 1

The Numbers:

G	AVG	AB	H	HR	RBI	2B	3B	BB	S0	OBP	SLG	OPS
10	.344	32	11	0	6	2	1	2	7	.389	.469	.858

The number prospect from last year’s short season ranks is off to a damn good start for a kid just out of high school getting his first taste of full season ball. I like Marin’s upside and a strong season at Delmarva will put him easily amongst the the Top 10 prospects in the system.

(The Honorable Mention “organizational guys” tearing it up: Zealous Wheeler – 3B – AA, Joel Hutter – UTL – A, Caleb Joseph – UTL – AA)

——— – – —- – — – – – – — —- – – – – – – – – – – – — – — – – – –  – – – –   — — — —– – – – — —– – – – – — — – – – – —-

While the purpose of thus column is to focus on who is performing well lately, the reality is that not all is bright and shiny in the minors and there are those with struggles worth a brief mention.

Who’s cold…uh oh…

– Jonathan Schoop – SS – Norfolk Tides – Not great to see our top hitting prospect struggle early on at AAA. Batting just .149 in his first 47 at bats. He is just 21 years old, making him one of the youngest players in the league. Hopefully he makes adjustments. Probably should’ve started in AA but its the O’s decision not mine.

– Mike Wright – RHP – Bowie Baysox – I’m a big Wright supporter as a potential no. 4 starter but his awful performance (7.30 ERA, .333 opponent AVG) thus far will begin to test my faith if it continues. C’mon Michael

– Tyler Wilson – RHP – Frederick Keys – Uncharacteristic control issues (10 BB in 15 innings; only 19 BB in 111 innings at Frederick last year) have hampered Wilson’s effectiveness so far resulting in a 6.46 ERA after three starts. Not what I wanted to see, especially when I figured he’d begin in AA. But, Wilson also started last season slow and got progressively better each month so I’m not too concerned.

— — ——- — – —— – — —- ———- – – – — – – — – – ——— – – – – —  – —  — – —  – — – – – – – – —- — – — – — – – – — – – – — – – – – — – – — — – – –

– Kevin Gausman Update: The good: 18 K and 0 BB in 16 innings pitched. The bad: 20 hits allowed and a 5.63 ERA. He’s fine. The premium stuff is there. Just needs to keep out out of the middle of the zone more consistently. The high ERA could also be the product of bad luck and a questionable infield defense behind him.

– Eduardo Rodriguez Update: Solid K rate (12 K in 12  innings) and great GO/AO ratio (3.20) in his first two outings for the Keys = what I like to see.

Remember our old friend, Matthew Hobgood…

– Matt Hobgood Update: Five scoreless outings spanning 10 innings out of the Delmarva bullpen for Hobgood thus far. Can’t ask for a better start.

– Promotion Alert: Devin Jones – RHP – With Dylan Bundy opening the season on the DL, an opportunity for Jones has arisen as he took Bundy’s spot at AA after pitching well in Frederick’s season opener. I’m a big fan of Jones and his 91-94 MPH sinking fastball. If he can pass the AA test as a starter this year, we may have an interesting #3/#4 starter prospect on our hands. He ranked #12 on my preseason Top 20.

– Yet to return from the DL: Steve Johnson, Both Bundy’s

All three should be back in action by the first week of May…I presume from what I’ve read.

That’s all I got this time. Today is the 18th, so I’ll do another one of these at the end of the month.

7. Mike Wright – RHP

Height: 6’5″        Weight: 200

DOB: 1/03/90         Age: 23

Drafted: 3rd Round, 2011

College: East Carolina

Hometown: Laurinburg, N.C.

2012 Teams: Frederick (A+) and Bowie (AA)

2013 Team: Bowie (AA)

2012 Rank: 9

Mike Wright has ‘the look’. When I watched him take the mound in a spring training appearance last March, he showed me the confidence and poise I like to see in a pitcher. He dialed his FB up to the mid 90’s and struck out a couple major leaguers during his outing so I expected big things from Mr. Wright last season. The results from Fredrick and Bowie were somewhat underwhelming but I think this a guy you have to look beyond the numbers and look at his raw stuff, his big durable frame, and his mound presence. When the O’s took Wright in the 3rd Round in 2011, many saw this as an overdraft and labeled him a future reliever. While this may eventually hold true, I think Wright still has a fighter’s chance at surprising us and sticking as a big league starter one day.

Scouting Report: (Grade C = Below Average, Grade B = Average, Grade A = Above Average, by major league standards)

• Fastball: B+ Nice, heavy running fastball. Sits 91-93 mph as a starter. Can reach back and get it up to 94-95 every now and then. Has great command of pitch and has the potential to be plus.
• Slider: B Mid 80’s. Decent slider. Needs to locate more consistently. Occasionally flashes plus but not an out pitch.
• Changeup: B- Pitch sits in upper 70’s and has some fade. Has improved enough that it could be a plus pitch with more refinement.
• Curveball: C+ Mixes in every now and then. Change of pace pitch
• Command: B Average command overall. Works fast, throws strikes. Sometimes has trouble spotting secondaries allowing hitters to sit on fastball
• Control: A- Despite some command issues every now and then, typically does a good job of working quickly and getting ahead in the count, limiting walk totals.

Projected Role: Setup Reliever

(Grade C = AAA filler, C+ = AAA depth w/ late bloomer potential, B- = long reliever/ mop up reliever, B = middle reliever, B+ = #5 starter or Setup reliever, A- = #3/ #4 starter, closer, A = #2/ #3 starter A+ = TOR starter aka Ace)

Potential: A The potential of his sinking fastball along with an average slider and an improved changeup give Wright a workhorse #4 upside. He has solid control of his pitches and a repeatable delivery which is a plus. He also knows how to effectively command his fastball down in the zone leading to favorable groundball percentages. The fastball is quality but the secondaries are both underwhelming and not commanded as well as his fastball. There’s still time for that to change though. In his best case scenario, Wright continues to add on weight and by the time he’s 27/28 clocks in around 6’5″ 225 with the fastball bumping up to the 92-94 range with sink. His slider and changeup make significant progress as he learns to spot them more effectively. With time Wright eventually develops into a Doug Fister like #3 starter.

Floor: B His developmental progress stagnates and he doesn’t see much improvement in the quality of his offerings prompting a switch to relief in the next year or two. In the worst case scenario, his repertoire doesn’t play up in relief like I expect it to and he has a forgettable career as a journeyman middle reliever with a couple decent seasons in his prime. His sinking fastball alone will garner several opportunities in the big leagues. I know that much.

Confidence I Have In Potential: B Mike Wright at the present moment seems fringy to me as a starting pitching prospect. I remain skeptical whether he will consistently get major league hitters out without true swing and miss secondary offerings and a pitch to contact approach with his sinking fastball. However, I can buy the idea that Wright isn’t a finished product just yet and with continued reps and offseason growth could start to post more ‘dominant looking’ results in the next few years. Mike Wright has two things down that you like to see in a potential #3 or #4 starter: great command of a sinking fastball and the ability to work quickly and throw strikes. I’m a big Mike Wright fan. I think some underestimate his upside as a starter and while I agree with the consensus opinion that he likely fits better in relief, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a breakthrough season this year or next in the minors as a starter that calls for a revision of our current opinions on him. I compared his upside to a potential Doug Fister which I can see but I don’t think it’s likely as of now unless the secondaries make a gradual leap in quality over the next several seasons. He has a durable frame you look for and a repeatable starter friendly delivery. Adding on a solid 20+ pounds could not only up the anty on the fastball by a mph or two but could also help him maintain velocity deeper into starts. He’s had varying degrees of success at each level with the only red flag I see is his high opponent batting averages. Continued refinement of the slider and changeup along with improved consistency in inducing weak contact (resulting in lower opponent batting AVG) will dictate whether or not he can achieve his mid rotation upside. For now, I see Wright as a future late inning power reliever out of the pen.

Overall Grade: B-

Interesting Fact: Mike pitched for the Harwich Mariners of the Cape Cod league in 2010

2012 Season
Team	League	W	L	ERA	G	GS	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
FRE	A+	5	2	2.91	8	8	46.1	47	3	5	35	1.09	.266
BOW	AA	5	3	4.91	12	12	62.1	71	7	17	45	1.52	.289
Minors	A+/AA	10	5	4.06	20	20	108.2	118	10	22	80	1.31	.279