Arizona Fall League Recap

Overview:

This year’s edition of the Arizona Fall League featured seven Oriole farmhands, all of whom played for the Glendale Desert Dogs. While not the most exciting group of players the O’s have sent to the AFL, there’s still some potential major league talent in this group worth discussing. The Desert Dogs finished 14-15 and a game out of 1st place in the AFL Western Division.

Here’s a statistical overview of how each player performed along with their current prospect outlook

Zach Davies – RHP – Age: 21 – Final Stats: 3-0, 1.75 ERA, 25.2 IP, 18 H, 5 ER, HR, 10 BB, 23 K, .205 AVG, 3.10 FIP

Davies has been the talk of the town as far Oriole prospects go in the AFL. An Arizona native, I bet this was an exciting experience for both him and his family as well. After allowing 4 ER and 7 BB in 4.2 IP over his first two AFL outings, Davies utterly dominated the rest of the way. He allowed just one earned run over his final 21 innings pitched (0.43 ERA), striking out 21, while walking just 5 batters. It’s a mystery to me how he wasn’t selected to participate in the Fall Stars game on Nov. 3rd.

Davies is undersized and will only top out at 90-91 MPH with his fastball but continues to draw rave reviews for his changeup, which Baseball America recently named the best in the organization. Desert Dogs pitching coach Mike Griffin agreed, stating in a recent interview, “It is a swing-and-miss pitch for me right now based on what I’ve seen out here. That is what he is getting a lot of his strikeouts on, but also some on his curveball. And when hitters wait on his changeup or curveball, the fastball command has improved and he’s locked some hitters up out here with called third strikes on his fastball.” He held his own (10-7, 3.35 ERA, 109 K’s in 110 IP) at AA in 2014 as a 21-year old and has really put himself on the map with this AFL performance as someone who could be a contributor in the back end of the O’s rotation in the near future.

Parker Bridwell – RHP – Age: 23 – Final Stats: 0-1, 7.94 ERA, 11.1 IP, 9 H, 10 ER, 0 HR, 8 BB, 9 K, .209 AVG, 3.89 FIP

The AFL can be a dangerous place for pitchers with command troubles to throw, thanks to the thin Arizona air and the bevy of bandbox type ballpark AFL teams play in. Thus, has been the case for Bridwell, who endured two separate blow up outings (4 H, 3 ER over 1 IP on Oct. 25 and 3 H, 6 ER over 0.1 IP on Nov. 5) while pitching out of bullpen for the Desert Dogs. Those two outings truly inflated an otherwise impressive stat line that netted Bridwell a Fall Stars game nod back on Nov. 3rd. At the time he carried a 3.60 ERA. Alas, consistency continues to plague talented but frustrating Bridwell, who pitched as a starter with Frederick in 2014 to mixed results.

The good news is that, according to Mike Griffin, Bridwell now carries a swing-and-miss pitch in his changeup and has made strides in repeating his delivery. Brian Graham echoed that statement, going so far as to say, “A gigantic step forward. His changeup has become a plus pitch.” Bridwell still needs to prove he can avoid those blowup outings that creeped up on him often at Frederick and show some consistent dominance on the mound. 2015 will be a big year for him, assuming he gets moved up to AA, often considered the “sink-or-swim” level for prospects with question marks.

Mychal Givens – RHP – Age: 24 – Final Stats: 0-2, 3.09 ERA, 11.2 IP, 12 H, 4 ER, 0 HR, 8 BB, 8 K, .273 AVG, 4.04 FIP

Givens has progressed nicely in his transition to relief work, culminating with an opportunity to pitch in the AFL. He can touch mid-90’s with his sinking fastball but his control would be the main red flag in his game right now. He walked 39 batters over 58.2 innings split between Frederick and Bowie in 2014 and those walk issues continued to show up in his small sample of AFL relief work.

According to Desert Dogs pitching coach, Mike Griffin, Givens needs to develop more consistency with repeating his unique low 3/4 arm slot. That will lead to improved control and effectiveness and could make Givens an intriguing weapon, bringing mid-90’s heat with plus movement from a deceptive arm angle. His slider is also a work in progress at this point. Considering this was just his second full season on the mound, there’s still reason to hope Givens can develop into a major league caliber bullpen arm in a few years.

Ashur Tolliver – LHP – Age: 26 – Final Stats: 0-0, 2.70 ERA, 3.1 IP, 3 H, ER, 0 HR, 0 BB, 2 K, .250 AVG, 1.90 FIP

A forgotten man in the Orioles minors, Tolliver didn’t get much work down in Arizona. After his first two relief appearances on Oct. 10th and 14th, the Desert Dogs shut Tolliver down due to a hamstring injury. Tolliver, a live-armed lefty the O’s drafted in the 5th round out of Oklahoma City University back in 2009 has had previous health issues, missing all of 2012. But, he has some major league potential as a LOOGY out of the bullpen.

Michael Ohlman – C – Age: 23 – Final Stats – 12 G, .244/.304/.366 in 41 AB, 10 H, 1 HR, 2 2B, 0 3B, 4 BB, 15 K

Ohlman is the lone returnee from last year’s Oriole prospect crop they sent to the AFL. Ohlman entered this year’s edition of AFL baseball with considerably less pizzazz then last year, following his disappointing followup season (.236/.310/.318 with 2 HR in 403 AB at Bowie) to last year’s breakout season (.313/.410/.524 with 13 HR in 363 AB) with Frederick. His AFL showing this time also took a step back from the .290/.476/.774 slash line he posted last Fall.

According to Brian Graham, Ohlman has the necessary skills to stick at catcher, but needs to work on his throwing accuracy and becoming a better receiver. As far as the offense is concerned, Ohlman’s first test of AA ball was really disappointing, especially the sharp decline in power production. He has likely dropped out of the top ten prospect discussion. However, the Orioles remained intrigued by his upside, according to Steve Melewski. Ohlman will probably return to Bowie again next season.

Jason Esposito – 3B – Age: 24 – Final Stats – 23 G, .253/.277/.352 in 91 AB, 23 H, 1 HR, 2 2B, 2 3B, 2 BB, 24 K

The former 2nd round pick continues to post the kind of K/BB ratios that would give any moneyball enthusiasts nightmares, but that didn’t stop Esposito from posting a respectable .272/.301/.417 slash line at Frederick this year. Considering his dreadful performance at the plate up to that point, that stat line qualifies as some sort of breakout for him, I guess. It was enough to get him an AFL invite where his plate discipline issues have continued. Esposito also committed 5 errors during AFL play but is generally considered an above average defender at third with excellent range. For what it’s worth, he did win the MILB gold glove award for the position in 2014. He made some headlines in the Desert Dogs final game of the season, delivering a go-ahead two run triple.

Esposito did obliterate lefties at Frederick in 2014 (.356/.396/.576) but struggled to produce versus righthanders (.237/.262/.352). That extreme split continued in AFL play where Esposito batted .348/.375/.478 versus lefties and .221/.243/.309 against righties. Those sharp platoon splits remind me of former Oriole third baseman, Danny Valencia. Perhaps, that is Esposito’s upside if he continues to make strides at the plate in AA next year.

Garabez Rosa – INF – Age: 25 Final Stats – 21 G, .308/.337/.462 in 78 AB, 24 H, 3 HR, 3 2B, 0 3B, 4 BB, 16 K

Rosa put together a fine AA campaign in 2014 with little to no fanfare, but clearly the Orioles brass took notice when they decided to include him on AFL roster. He’s an average prospect who’s upside is likely a utility player in the majors, but that’s more than we could reasonably say about him this time last year. He put together an impressive showing the AFL but the main knock against him continues to be that he lacks the plate discipline to produce at higher levels. While he can play a multitude of positions, he’s considered a marginal defender at best at SS and 2B and spent a lot of time in the OF this year, where his bat has less value.

Final Thoughts:

Davies is clearly the shining star of this group, and one has to be pretty encouraged with his AFL performance. He doesn’t get nearly the hype he is starting to deserve (outside of OH where he is ranked as the No.4 prospect in the system). He’ll likely pitch at AAA in 2015 as a 22-year old and could knock on the big league doors at some point if he continues to progress on the mound.

While Ohlman and Bridwell have their flaws, the O’s remain intrigued by their upside. It’s a longshot at this point but Givens has closer potential. After those three, the rest of this group look like potential role players if they pan out, or likely AAA depth players.

 

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 (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

11. Zach Davies – RHP

Height: 6’0″       Weight: 150

DOB: 2/07/93        Age: 20

Drafted: 26th Round, 2011

Birthplace: Chandler, AZ

High School: Mesquite HS (Gilbert, AZ)

2012 Team: Delmarva (A)

2013 Team: Frederick (A+)

2012 Short Season Rank: 6

Zach Davies is a guy most expected to spurn the Orioles and head off to college at Arizona State. When you’re taken in the 26th round out of high school, you typically have your sights set on college unless a substantial overslot signing bonus comes your way. That’s exactly what the O’s did giving him a very generous 575,000 bonus to sign. That looks like a smart decision so far as Davies’ advanced feel for pitching allowed him to survive and thrive as a 19 year old in full season ball with the Shorebirds. He’s very slight and his fastball only tops out at 90 mph, but Davies is definitely an intriguing sleeper to keep an eye on as he fills out and hopefully adds more velocity.

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

• Fastball: C+ Sits 88-90 with some run. Has great feel for pitch and can induce plenty of ground ball when he hits the low corners. Below Average now for major league standards but velocity boost could make it an average pitch overall.
• Slider: B- low 80’s pitch with decent break. Not an out pitch but can induce weak contact and ground balls when spotted down in the strike zone.
  
• Curveball: C+ upper 70’s 11-5 curve that he can throw for strikes but won’t have much success against advnced hitters. Show-me pitch.
  
• Changeup: B- Pitch will flash above average at times and shows the most promise of his secondary offerings with continued reps and refinement.
• Command: B+ Shows an advanced feel for spotting his pitches. Could improved to above average with experience.
  
• Control: B Solid average control. Every now and then, may have control issues, but should become more consistent and potentially above average as he matures.
  

Projected Role: Swingman Reliever/ BOR starter

(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)

Ceiling: A- Already has the pitch ability and control needed to succeed. If durability, FB velocity, and the quality of change up show significant improvements as he matures, he has Mike Leake, maybe even Shaun Marcum type of upside. That’s what I’d refer to as a solid #3 or #4 starter depending on the rotation. However, that’s 5-6 years down the road from now so there’s as much room to debate his ultimate upside as there is room for Davies to gain weight. As of now he’s more of a ‘sleeper’ prospect if anything and reaching that upside hinges on how much (or little) he develops as a pitcher in the next 5-6 years.

Floor: C Ends up struggling in Frederick this year and off the list next year. Doesn’t get much bigger or stronger, repertoire stagnates and he winds up as a AAA lifer with middling stuff that can’t get enough consistent outs to stick in the majors despite several opportunities.

Confidence I Have In Potential: A I love pitchers like Davies who show such an advanced feel for pitching at a young age. Sure his “now” stuff leaves you unimpressed but I believe that over time his arsenal will show great improvements. When a pitcher already shows great control and poise as a 19 year old in full season ball, it’s easy to have faith that with maturation and growth in quality of pitch repertoire, he could exceed the conservative expectations already being slapped on him by some scouts. Davies’ lack of  ‘physicality’ leads some scouts not to anticipate more than modest improvement in his repertoire despite his young age and think he’ll ultimately end up an average swingman, long relief, type. Yea, he’s undersized at 6’0 and maybe 150 lbs in a wet T-shirt but he’s scrappy, competitive, very athletic and last I checked held up pretty well over 114 innings in his first taste of pro ball. He’s young enough that I can see his future expectations rise with a simple unexpected bump in fastball velocity and the potential for an above average changeup. He’ll pitch this season at just 20 years of age at Frederick. Keep an eye on the strikeout rate. If that shows an unexpected rise, likely due to improved velocity and changeup, he’ll be a top ten prospect and a potential #4 starter this time next year. For now, he does only project as a mediocre swingman type, but I’m confident that his average at best arsenal can show significant improvement as gets older. Intriguing sleeper that I may have ranked higher than I should but I think he could be in for a breakthrough performance this year or next.

Overall Grade: C+

Interesting Fact: (Best I could do) Davies did it all for his HS team, going 12-0 with a 1.82 ERA as a Starting Pitcher, and starting at SS when not pitching.

2012 Season
Team	League	W	L	ERA	G	GS	IP	H	HR	BB	K	GO/AO	AVG
DEL	SAL	5	7	3.86	25	17	114.1	109	11	46	91	1.50	.255
Minors	Total	5	7	3.86	25	17	114.1	109	11	46	91	1.50	.255