BF.net Fan Community Top 25 Prospects - 2015 Post-Season Edition

[reillymcshane]

#1 - Orlando Arcia, SS, Age 21.

.307 BA, .343 OBP, .800 OPS, 25 SB (AA)

774 points (30 1st place votes) - 31 of 31 ballots

So much to like. BrewerFan.net’s top minor leaguer (again) stepped up his game in 2015 and is now recognized as one of the best prospects in baseball. Already known for his outstanding glove work, last year Arcia hit a robust .307 while hammering out 52 extra base hits for AA Biloxi while earning the organization's Minor League Player of the Year award. The young Venezuelan’s exceptional all around game makes him the organization’s most anticipated prospect in years. Don’t be surprised to see him in Milwaukee by mid-season. Likely 2016 destination: Colorado Springs (AAA)

 

#2 - Brett Phillips, CF, Age 22.

.309 BA, .374 OBP, .901 OPS, 17 SB (between A+ and AA)

734 points - 31 of 31 ballots

Phillips was the key part of the deal that sent Mike Fiers and Carlos Gomez to Houston this past July. He emerged as a top prospect in 2014 after hitting .310 with 17 HR in A ball. He continued to produce in 2015, hitting .309 between A and AA with 16 HR. One question with Phillips is how much power he develops. He gets extra base hits by the bucket load (64 in 2015 and 60 in 2014), but many of his home runs came in hitter friendly environments (15 of his 16 HR last season came in A ball on 291 ABs, then he hit only 1 more HR in AA on 224 ABs). As with Arcia, don’t be surprised if Phillips is in Milwaukee by mid-season. Likely 2016 destination: Colorado Springs (AAA)

 

#3 - Jorge Lopez, RP, Biloxi (AA), age 23.

143.1 IP, 52BB, 137K, 2.26 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 12 wins (AA)

691 points - 31 of 31 ballots

The Brewers organization, in desperate need of potential impact pitchers, is no doubt thrilled with the development of Lopez. In 2015, he put it all together. He improved in just about every phase of the game - but more than anything - seemed to come into his own as a pitcher. Sporting a plus fastball and improving secondary pitches, Lopez needs to continue to refine his command. He was the organization’s Minor League Pitcher of the Year in 2015. As with many of the quality AA players from this past year, don’t be surprised if Lopez ends up in the rotation sometime in 2016. Likely 2016 destination: Colorado Springs (AAA)

 

#4 - Trent Clark, OF, age 19.

.309 BA, .424 OBP, .854 OPS, 25 SB (between Maryvale and Helena)

683 points - 31 of 31 ballots

The Brewers snapped up Clark with the 15th pick in the draft last June, and the prep star has quickly emerged as the best pure hitter in the organization. He has a mature approach at the plate, sports plus speed, and should move quickly up the minor league ladder. Likely 2016 destination: Wisconsin (A-)

 

#5 - Gilbert Lara, SS, age 18.

.240 BA, .285 OBP, .606 OPS (Between Maryvale and Helena)

606 points - 31 of 31 ballots

Milwaukee's prize 2014 international signing was moved aggressively by the organization, skipping the DSL and going straight to Maryvale. Lara started well, but faded as the season went along - not a shocking experience for a 17-year old. As expected, Lara was very raw and often overmatched, especially against more experienced players (and most players were more experienced than him). It will be interesting to see where the Brewers place Lara next season, but a year of pro ball under his belt should help the youngster's immense talent emerge. Likely 2016 Destination: Helena (Rookie) or Wisconsin (A-)

 

#6 - Josh Hader, LHP, age 21.

104 IP, 35BB, 119K, 3.03 ERA, 1.17 WHIP (AA)

582 points - 31 of 31 ballots

Hader was another piece of the haul from the Gomez/Fiers trade with Houston. The lanky lefty has done nothing but produce as a pitcher. Last season his game improved even more once he arrived in Milwaukee, with 50 strike outs in only 38.2 innings, plus a reduced walk rate. Many scouts compare his delivery to Chris Sale. The velocity is impressive, but Hader has struggled with control at times. Likely 2016 destination: Colorado Springs (AAA)

 

#7 - Kodi Medeiros, LHP, age 19.

93.1 IP, 40BB, 94K, 4.44 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 0 HR allowed (A-)

518 points - 30 of 31 ballots

There’s a lot to like about Medeiros. A strikeout per inning. No home runs allowed last year. The most wicked slider in the organization. On the downside, his control has been spotty, and righties have been a challenge. There’s enormous upside if Kodi can learn to spot his pitches more effectively. Likely 2016 destination: Brevard County (A+)

 

#8 - Zach Davies, RHP, age 23.

128.1 IP, 45BB, 102K, 3.30 ERA, 1.36 ERA (AAA)

34 IP, 15BB, 24K, 3.71 ERA, 1.30 WHIP (Milwaukee)

515 points - 30 of 31 ballots

Acquired from the local high school team...no wait. Acquired from Baltimore for Gerado Parra at the trade deadline, the stick thin and youthful looking Davies impressed fans and the organization in six late season starts. Davies isn't going to blow anyone away - his tools are average across the board - but he sports a wicked change up and a decent curve that induce a ton of ground balls. Davies' control can desert him at times, but he has poise beyond his high school appearance. Watch for the kid to slot in the back of the rotation in 2016. Likely 2016 destination: Milwaukee

 

#9 - Tyrone Taylor, OF, age 22.

.260 BA, .312 OBP, .649 OPS (AA)

469 points - 31 of 31 ballots

The golden boy of the Milwaukee farm system has fallen after a lackluster 2015. Many felt Taylor was poised for a breakout this past year, but instead he regressed in every phase of his hitting game. The raw tools are there, but Taylor - who in the past ranked as high as #2 on the BF.net prospect listing - needs to become a better baseball player - not just a great athlete. In Taylor’s defense, he’s young and has been moved aggressively through the system. Likely 2016 destination: Colorado Springs (AAA) or a return to Biloxi (AA)

 

#10 - Michael Reed, OF, age 23.

.269 BA, .371 OBP, .781 OPS, 25 SB (between AA and AAA)

444 points - 31 of 31 ballots

Reed capped a solid 2015 campaign with a late season call up to Milwaukee. Reed's calling card is his on base skills - .375 OBP for his career. Thus far, he has not hit for a lot of power, but his 45 extra base hits last year hint there's room for growth. Scouts generally feel that Reed fits best in RF (strong arm, good speed and instincts), so his future really seems to rest in his ability to improve his slugging. His ability to play any of the OF positions should at least make him a solid 4th outfielder. While CF is not considered his long term future, some have speculated that a good offseason and spring training, coupled with a move of some kind (such as Lind getting dealt and Braun moving to 1B), could land Reed as Milwaukee's CF for 2016 (until Phillips is ready). Likely 2016 destination: Colorado Springs (AAA)

 

#11 - Devin Williams, RHP, age 21.

89 IP, 36BB, 89K, 3.44 ERA, 1.25 WHIP (A-)

434 points - 30 of 31 ballots

Everyone loves to see progress, and Devin did exactly that in 2015. Williams appeared to better harness his obvious talent and blossom as a pitcher, improving in every just about phase of the game. He lowered his ERA and WHIP, while striking out a batter per inning. Williams still needs to work on his control, but it's encouraging to see his overall improvement. Don't be surprised if Williams shines in the pitching friendly FSL in 2016. Likely 2016 destination: Brevard County (A+)

 

#12 - Clint Coulter, OF, age 22.

.246 BA, .329 OBP, .725 OPS. (A+)

426 points - 31 of 31 ballots

Coulter followed up his breakout 2014 with a mediocre year at Brevard County. But one has needs to take into context of playing in the FSL. Coulter’s 13 HR were tied for 2nd in the league. Still, Coulter’s season can’t really be seen as anything but a bit of a disappointment (his drop from #4 to #12 reflects that sentiment amongst BF.net voters). A move to Biloxi next year should give us a better measure of his progress - both as a hitter and an outfielder. Likely 2016 destination: Biloxi (AA)

 

#13 - Monte Harrison, OF, age 20.

.299 BA, .410 OBP, .884 OPS, 14 SB (Helena)

.148 BA, .246 OBP, .493 OPS - (A-)

422 points - 31 of 31 ballots

2015 was a tale of two seasons for Harrison. He struggled badly at Wisconsin (an aggressive move), but flourished after moving down to Helena. He still strikeouts too often, but the walks and speed returned (14 SBs). Unfortunately, just as Harrison looked to be back on track, he suffered a broken ankle, ending his season prematurely. Harrison is probably the best athlete in the Brewers’ system, but fans will need to be patient as he learns the nuances of the game - and translates that talent into baseball skills. Likely 2016 destination: Wisconsin (A-)

 

#14 (Tie) - Demi Orimoloye, OF, age 19.

.292 BA, .319 OBP, .838 OPS, 19 SB (Maryvale)

340 points - 31 of 31 ballots

Milwaukee's 4th round pick in the 2015 draft is about as raw as they come. But that didn't stop the Canadian from putting up big numbers in the Arizona League this past summer. Orimoloye, who looks like he should be a linebacker instead of a baseball player, displayed a nice combination of power and speed in his rookie campaign. While he has enormous potential, he did strike out a lot, and his low walk rate (only 3 walks in 137 ABs) indicates his aggressiveness can (and will) be exploited. Likely 2016 destination: Helena (Rookie)

 

#14 (Tie) - Cody Ponce, RHP, age 21.

51 IP, 9BB, 36K, 2.15 ERA, 1.13 WHIP (Helena and A-)

340 points - 30 of 31 ballots

Milwaukee's 2nd round pick last year flashed a mid-90s fastball and exceptional control in his pro debut. Ponce played at a small college (Cal Poly Pomona), and thus didn't have rely on much more than his fastball. Watch for him to work on his secondary offerings - and don't be surprised if he moves quickly through the Brewers system. In our mid-season poll, I predicted that Ponce would be our top pitching prospect by July 2016. With the host of trade acquisitions last season, that's probably a bit aggressive, but barring injury, I think Brewer fans will be thrilled by the big man's production. Likely 2016 destination: Brevard County (A+)

 

#16 - Jake Gatewood, SS, age 20.

.209 BA, .275 OBP, .591 OPS (A-)

.274 BA, .331 OBP, .807 OPS (Helena)

312 points - 30 of 31 ballots

Like fellow classmate Monte Harrison, Gatewood began last year at Wisconsin and struggled badly. A move to Helana resurrected his season, where Jake had 30 extra base hits. He still strikes out too much and needs to improve his walk rate, but Gatewood finally is starting to show hints of being a middle of the lineup bat. Likely 2016 destination: Wisconsin (A-)

 

#17 - Adrian Houser, RHP, age 23.

120 IP, 41BB, 110K, 4.43 ERA, 1.34 WHIP (A+ and AA)

278 points - 29 of 31 ballots

Acquired from Houston this past July, Houser impressed the Brewers in his 37 inning stint at Biloxi (even earning a cup of coffee with the big league club). The tall right hander has always sported a good fastball and curveball, but has been inconsistent with his other offerings as well has his control. There's a lot of talent - it's up to Houser to put it all together over an extended time frame. Likely 2016 destination: Biloxi (AA) or Colorado Springs (AAA)

 

#18 - Marcos Diplan, RHP, age 19.

50.1 IP, 21BB, 54K, 3.75 ERA, 1.35 WHIP (Helena)

211 points - 26 of 31 ballots

Diplan showed progress in 2016, jumping from the DSL to Helena. He struck out more than a batter an inning, with his mid-90s fastball being is his best weapon. His secondary pitches need work, but there's a ton of potential in the young man's arm. Likely 2016 destination: Wisconsin (A-)

 

#19 - Tyler Wagner, RHP, age 25.

152.1 IP, 45BB, 120K, 2.25 ERA, 1.15 WHIP (AA)

205 points - 24 of 31 ballots

The fantastic numbers are hard to ignore, but the concern from BF.net fans (and scouts) is that Wagner's tool set won't translate at the big league level. Wagner has a solid fastball that he keeps low in the zone, producing a lot of grounders, but at this time, his secondary pitchers are only average. A brief 13.2 inning stint in Milwaukee wasn't pretty (22 hits allowed, 7 walks, only 5 strike outs). Wagner needs to refine his command and just keep getting outs. A closer in college, Wagner may eventually end up in the bullpen, especially with all the young arms the organization has accumulated. Likely 2016 destination: Colorado Springs (AAA)

 

#20 - Wei-Chung Wang, LHP, age 23.

145.2 IP, 39BB, 96K, 3.40 ERA, 1.30 WHIP (A+)

154 points - 24 of 31 ballots

Welcome back to the Top 25, Mr. Wang! The former Rule 5 pick scuffled early in 2015, but settled in and had a solid year in the FSL. It's hard to imagine, but Wang had less than 100 IP in his career coming into 2015, so his production was a good step in his development. Likely 2016 destination: Biloxi (AA)

 

#21 - Victor Roache, OF, age 24.

.253 BA, .324 OBP, .763 OPS, 18 HR (A+ and AA)

153 points - 23 of 31 ballots

Roache rebounded from a poor 2014 to put up solid, if uninspiring, numbers last year. He strikes out a lot, doesn't walk enough, and plays below average defense. But he did hit 18 HR last season - and power is hard to let go of. The Brewers have wisely let Roache move along slowly in hope that he can take further steps to improve his game, and develop into the power hitter they envisioned when they drafted him in the 1st round several years ago. Depending on the OF situation at Colorado Springs, Roache may end up there, or repeat AA. Likely 2016 destination: Colorado Springs (AAA) or Biloxi (AA)

 

#22 - Nathan Kirby, LHP, age 22.

12.2 IP, 7BB, 7K, 5.68 ERA, 1.74 WHIP (A-)

135 points - 19 of 31 ballots

Milwaukee's supplemental pick in 2015, Kirby's rookie campaign was ended prematurely by elbow issues. A fastball/slider pitcher in college, Kirby will miss all of 2016 while he rehabilitates from Tommy John surgery. Despite the injury, BF.net voters recognize the talent - we'll all just have to wait another year to see it in action.

 

#23 - Jorge Ortega, RHP, age 22.

147.2 IP, 12BB, 75K, 2.38 ERA, 1.06 WHIP (A+ - except for 6.0 IP at AAA)

96 points - 17 of 31 ballots

Let's start with 12 walks in 147.2 IP. That's a pretty insane number - enough to get some love from BF.net readers in our latest poll. Ortega's game is control. He limits walks, pitches to contact (only 75 strikeouts) and keeps the ball in the park. It worked great in the hitting-friendly FSL, but pitchers like this often get pounded as they move up the food chain. Still, it's hard to ignore a guy that only walks 12 batters. Likely 2016 destination: Biloxi (AA)

 

#24 - Cy Sneed, RHP, age 23.

139.1 IP, 28BB, 122K, 2.58 ERA, 1.13 WHIP (Between A- and A+)

70 points - 16 of 31 ballots

Sneed quietly had a nice season in 2016, flying under the radar with many fans as well as scouts. His tools aren't great, but he displayed outstanding command pitching in Wisconsin and then Brevard County. A move to AA should give us a better feel for Sneed's upside, but if he can maintain his command and continue to be a smart pitcher, he may very well have a future in Milwaukee. Also, special points for the best moustache in the system. Likely 2016 destination: Biloxi (AA)

 

#25 - Yadier Rivera, INF, age 23.

.253 BA, .298 OBP, .629 OPS (Between AA and AAA)

60 points - 14 of 31 ballots

The slick-fielding Rivera started off well in 2015, but faded after a call up to Colorado Springs. Little has changed about Rivera, he hits for a modest average, little power and doesn't walk much. His glove is his calling card, and it will get him to the major leagues. But he's going to have to hit more if he's going to be a regular. Right now, he's a utility guy at best. Likely 2016 destination: Colorado Springs (AAA) or Milwaukee

 

#26 - Brent Suter - LHP, age 26.

118.1 IP, 39BB, 83K, 2.36 ERA, 1.23 WHIP (Between AA and AAA)

57 points (1 1st place vote) - 3 of 31 ballots

In a shoutout to Clancy, we add a 26th man, lefty Brent Suter. Suter doesn't sport any standout tools, but has been successful as he has steadily moved through the system. He will need to use his smarts to succeed going forward, but the 'crafty lefty' moniker is not out of the question for the Harvard educated Suter. Likely 2016 destination: Colorado Springs (AAA)

 

The Rest

 

Cravy - 55

T. Williams - 41

Barrios - 37

Segovia - 35

Cooper - 26

M. Diaz - 23

Magnifico - 20

Leal - 17

Pena - 15

Denson - 15

Stokes - 13

Iskenderian - 11

Orf - 10

Johnson - 9

Angel Ventura - 6

Goforth - 6

McFarland - 6

Woodruff - 6

B. Diaz - 5

Mallen - 4

Perry - 3

Collymore - 2

 

All ages noted are for April 1, 2016, the approximate start of next season.

[reillymcshane]

The 2015 Post-Season BF.net Community Top 25 is complete. We had excellent participation - 31 ballots. Thanks!

 

Orlando Arcia captured 34 of the 35 1st place votes as he nabbed the top spot again (Brent Suter got the other top vote).

 

Newcomers: Phillips, Hader, Davies, Houser, Wang (re-entered)

Exited the Top 25: Cravy, Taylor Williams, Leal

Number of ballots: 31

Number of players on ballots: 48

Mr. Irrelevant (1 point): No one! The lowest vote total was Collymore with 2 points.

Risers: Wang (6 spots), Orimoloye (5 spots), Ponce (4 spots)

Fallers: Cravy (12 spots), Leal (10 spots), Kirby (8 spots), Coulter (8 spots), T. Williams (7 spots), Wagner (6 spots),

 

If you see any mistakes, please let me know. I will update as needed.

 

We'll plan on doing a new top 25 right before the beginning of next season.

[reillymcshane]

Some notes on our new Top 25.

 

- The infusion of talent into our system is pretty obvious. 8 of the top 25 are new additions in 2015.

- We had 48 players on the ballot - usually it's around 60. I think this shows players are easier to identify as quality prospects - a good sign.

- The top 17-18 players were on almost every ballot. In the past, after the top 10, you usually had more of a mish mash of players on peoples' lists. I think it's a good sign that we can all agree on these players.

- With all the new talent, it was hard for players to move up too much on the list. Three of the top 10 guys were acquired in July, bumping down players who might have otherwise slide up a few extra notches.

- Tyler Cravy's fall was pretty brutal. His poor showing in the majors obviously has affected our perception of him. I think it's probably affected Tyler Wagner as well - the realization that guys without special skills are going to have a bit more of a challenge surviving in the majors.

- I combined a lot of stats (such as if a player was at AA and AAA). I broke out some numbers if I felt it was relevant, such as Harrison's or Gatewood's numbers between Helena and Wisconsin.

- Overall, I think the talent level in the organization has risen dramatically. It's a welcome change from when we had guys like Nick Delmonico as our #13 overall prospect.

 

Please note that all the write ups are my own opinion, as are my predictions on the 2016 destinations.

[1992casey]

Here's a link to the now closed topic with the individual voting:

 

2015 Post Season Community Top 25 Prospect Poll

[clancyphile]

It would be fascinating to see the average points per vote for each player. Suter, for instance, only appeared on three ballots, but averaged 19 points per ballot (there was my first place vote, another in the top five, and one with him at 15).

[CheezWizHed]

It would be fascinating to see the average points per vote for each player. Suter, for instance, only appeared on three ballots, but averaged 19 points per ballot (there was my first place vote, another in the top five, and one with him at 15).

 

[sarcasm]At what point do we start to question if clancyphile is Suter's parent or coach?[/sarcasm] This is starting to give me flashbacks of Ben Hendrickson's dad or Angel Salome's coach...

[clancyphile]

It would be fascinating to see the average points per vote for each player. Suter, for instance, only appeared on three ballots, but averaged 19 points per ballot (there was my first place vote, another in the top five, and one with him at 15).

 

[sarcasm]At what point do we start to question if clancyphile is Suter's parent or coach?[/sarcasm] This is starting to give me flashbacks of Ben Hendrickson's dad or Angel Salome's coach...

 

I get it, I get it.

 

Seriously, though - it seems that Suter's prospect status is polarizing. Those who put him on the Top 25 list (myself included) think he is a VERY good one - he was on three ballots, but he got the 25th highest point total.

 

Have there been other prospects this polarizing?

[reillymcshane]

It would be fascinating to see the average points per vote for each player. Suter, for instance, only appeared on three ballots, but averaged 19 points per ballot (there was my first place vote, another in the top five, and one with him at 15).

 

[sarcasm]At what point do we start to question if clancyphile is Suter's parent or coach?[/sarcasm] This is starting to give me flashbacks of Ben Hendrickson's dad or Angel Salome's coach...

 

I get it, I get it.

 

Seriously, though - it seems that Suter's prospect status is polarizing. Those who put him on the Top 25 list (myself included) think he is a VERY good one - he was on three ballots, but he got the 25th highest point total.

 

Have there been other prospects this polarizing?

 

I don't think so. We had 3 people give him quite high rankings, 28 people leave him off. Usually in the case of a player only getting three people voting for him, the votes would be low. And usually if one person really likes someone and gives them a high rating, there's not enough other people to boost the points high enough to get into the top 25. It should be noted that we do only have 25-35 voters, so a you're going to run into some anomolies like this from time to time. It's just not enough voters to avoid such quirks. But that's okay, it's part of the fun of these things.

[CheezWizHed]

Khris Davis, Mike Fiers, and Hiram Burgos all come to mind in polarizing type players of the recent past.

 

Fiers was still considered a #5 SP by some people until he threw his no-hitter. And as a prospect, it wasn't much different. Part of the problem is that players that don't hit the "norm" for physical abilities have such a high hill to climb. They need some driving characteristic that allows them to succeed despite a below average physical capabilities. Fiers has his high K rate (rising FB and decent 4 pitch repertoire). Davis overcomes a high K rate with hitting a lot of HRs.

 

The problem that I see with Sutter (I did give him a shout-out at #30) is that he doesn't have a defining characteristic that will carry him in the MLB levels. Getting AA and AAA batters out with a nice ERA is great, but his peripheral numbers warn of a smoke screen. Hopefully he transitions over to the MLB level and you can tell all of us, "I told you so". (Not that we want you to gloat, but we want our prospects to succeed).

 

Personally, I see him as a LOOGY or long man in the BP. But here is hoping he becomes much better.

 

But it would be nice if you didn't mention him on EVERY post.

[clancyphile]

How about some thoughts on superlatives:

Who is the most likely to be first graduate off the list?

Who will be the biggest climber?

Who will have the biggest drop?

Most likely to make a comeback?

[Jenkins5]

Who is the most likely to be first graduate off the list?

Davies is a no-brainer IMO but of the more difficult choices I'll go with Rivera or Reed as I could see one of those 2 breaking camp as either Super utility IF/Starting 3b or 4th OF/Starting CF

 

Who will be the biggest climber?

Super Difficult anyone 11-18 could skyrocket stock next season. The ceilings are so high for, Demi, Gatewood, Ponce, Williams Harrison, Coulter and Diplan. If I had to pick one.....I would go with Harrison. I think he is the closest to being a complete prospect at this point.

 

Who will have the biggest drop?

Tyrone Taylor- to many talented OF's who offer way more than him. Suter cause he only made the list based on 1 24 point vote.

 

Most likely to make a comeback?

Coulter will hit .280 with a .875 OPS knocking out 20+ HRs to go with 80 RBI's in Biloxi. He will win best power tool for the league and maybe offensive MVP. We will all overlook the destruction BC caused his numbers this season

[And That]

I don't think Suter is polarizing at all, just weirdly fixated on by about one person.

[ZBTMP]

Who is the most likely to be first graduate off the list?

 

Davies; won't overthink it, but also would not be surprised if Orf got an extended look next season.

 

Who will be the biggest climber?

 

Brandon Woodruff; last 5 starts: 29 2/3 IP, 0.91 ERA, 29/7 K/BB, .98 WHIP. It's a small sample and the overall line is mediocre at best, but it's also his first professional season after a college career where results hadn't matched stuff. A good 6'4" frame, 93-97 MPH fastball and a curveball that at times shows plus, with a nice year at AA next season I think he is in the top 10 prospect conversation. Really, I'm not sure there is a big difference between him and Houser right now outside of draft position.

 

Who will have the biggest drop?

 

Wei Chung Wang

Both players are rule 5 eligible

Ventura (22.5 yo): 9.27 K/9, 3.38 BB/9, .37 HR/9, 3.17 FIP, 3.09 ERA

Wang (23.5 yo): 5.86 K/9, 2.51 BB/9, .58 HR/9, 3.58 FIP, 3.54 ERA

There is a level difference but I know which one I'd protect if I had to chose. I'm not sure Wang is a lock for the 40 man, and I don't see his second half success translating much beyond the FSL and Space Coast Stadium.

 

Most likely to make a comeback?

 

Miguel Diaz, we should get more of a sample size to judge. I think he will put himself back in the top 20.

[Bombers]

How about some thoughts on superlatives:

Who is the most likely to be first graduate off the list? I would go with Davies and Reed

 

Who will be the biggest climber? I feel like Nathan Kirby will be a top 5 BF.netter but unfortunately it won't be until 2017. So for this year, I am going to go with the one I hope has a great year in 2016. Malik Collymore. It would be great if the Cardinals traded away a good player for Broxton. I also think Ponce will crack the top 10 next year. (Which these days is a pretty hard thing to do)

 

Who will have the biggest drop? Tyrone Taylor will be a popular pick after a disappointing 2015 but I am going to go with Monte Harrison will continue his fall.

 

Most likely to make a comeback? If they put Roache in Colorado, he might hit 30+ home runs.

[Jenkins5]

 

Who will have the biggest drop? Tyrone Taylor will be a popular pick after a disappointing 2015 but I am going to go with Monte Harrison will continue his fall.

 

.

 

Did I miss something? He was 19 in Wisconsin and overmatched, not surprising it happens. Was moved down to play in Helena where he was still young compared to competition and he dominated after a short adjustment. He hit .299 AVE /.410 OBP / .884 OPS 14 SBs for year prior to injury. In 17 July games prior to injury he was hitting .400 AVE / .493 OBP / 1.038 OPS & 11 of his steals..... He also had a very impressive Arizona debut. For a 19 year old 3 sport scholarship type athlete in high school, it will take time to adjust. He is only one year in on focusing on simply baseball. I only can see him moving up. He K's a lot right now but he offers way to much outside of that and upside

[Bombers]

 

Who will have the biggest drop? Tyrone Taylor will be a popular pick after a disappointing 2015 but I am going to go with Monte Harrison will continue his fall.

 

.

 

Did I miss something? He was 19 in Wisconsin and overmatched, not surprising it happens. Was moved down to play in Helena where he was still young compared to competition and he dominated after a short adjustment. He hit .299 AVE /.410 OBP / .884 OPS 14 SBs for year prior to injury. In 17 July games prior to injury he was hitting .400 AVE / .493 OBP / 1.038 OPS & 11 of his steals..... He also had a very impressive Arizona debut. For a 19 year old 3 sport scholarship type athlete in high school, it will take time to adjust. He is only one year in on focusing on simply baseball. I only can see him moving up. He K's a lot right now but he offers way to much outside of that and upside

psssst. It's just a stab in the dark. Many will say Taylor so I went with someone who most won't go with. Didn't realize Monte couldn't be picked as someone who may disappoint. Also his .228/.349/.335/.684 slash line over 2 seasons isn't great and he is coming off an injury.

[Jenkins5]

Lol it was just surprising because I'm really thinking he breaks out in his 2nd go at Wisconsin. He shouldn't be nearly as overmatched as he was last season. I kind of take his Aball numbers with grain of sand. 19 and simply over matched after advanced placement. If he would have started at Helena I believe he would have dominated (as he did) & be generating a lot more buzz this season, same goes for Gatewood. But the 2 19 year olds were overmatched and some people takes that as a knock on them. Even at 20 they will still be young for the level but I'm feeling confident.

[Outlander]

Who is the most likely to be first graduate off the list? Davies, Cravy and Goforth are almost sure things but I think Jorge Lopez is a good bet as well to reach 50 innings next year after the trade deadline. Maybe even Nathan Orf graduates without ever being a prospect on these lists.

 

Who will be the biggest climber? A couple of guys not really even getting votes in Angel Ventura and Dustin Houle.

 

Who will have the biggest drop? Demi Orimoloye made such a splash that I expect him to come back to earth a little bit much along the same way Gatewood and Harrison did. Still could be really good but has a long ways to go.

 

Most likely to make a comeback? I think Kirby and Williams both make a nice comeback but we won't see it in 2016. I'm thinking Michael Strong has a nice year and is in the big leagues at some point in 2016.

[MrTPlush]

Come 365 days from now I think:

 

 

Who will be the biggest climber?

I like Trent Clark as the biggest climber(valuing a 4 to 1 jump as huge). I think he will put up big numbers, Arcia will graduate, and Phillips/Lopez both regress opening the way for Clark to nab the #1 spot.

Who will have the biggest drop?

Tyrone Taylor. This system is going to be way too good for an average talent like him to be even in the Top 15.

Most likely to make a comeback?

Victor Roache anyone? About to play in some hitter friendly parks and starting to get lots of experience. I could see him putting up a nice stat line(HRs) to get people a little excited again.

 

Also wouldn't be surprised to see Devin Williams make a big jump. Everyone here seems to get super excited about pitcher stat lines so he could excel with improvement and pitching in the FSL.

[reillymcshane]

Who is the most likely to be first graduate off the list?

Davies is obvious. Cravy as well. But I wouldn't be surprised to see Arcia, Phillips, Reed, Lopez and Hader. That's 6 of the top 10. Wagner is another guy who could go. Rivera is likely as well.

 

I just don't see us being very good next year, so changes will be in the air, and by mid-season we'll start seeing a lot of moves (not to mention injuries).

 

Who will be the biggest climber?

Ponce. I just really like the guy and see him moving fast. Another interesting guy is Cooper. He's getting out of the FSL, and if he can keep hitting at AA, he'll get notice. He's a not a great prospect, just a guy who could emerge.

 

Devin Williams has a chance to really shine next year as well. Pitchers going to the FSL can really put up some nice stats, so this is his chance.

 

Who will have the biggest drop?

Orimoloye. I think we've just gotten too excited by a small sample (sort of like Harrison last year). His inability to take walks is going to kill him if he doesn't adjust. That will take time. Until then, pitchers will exploit his aggressiveness.

 

Most likely to make a comeback?

Tyrone Taylor. Great athlete. He just needs to be a better baseball player. Give him time.

[FVBrewerFan]

Two stats I find interesting:

 

7 of the top 10 are in the high minors. In the past, list has been weighted more towards the low minors.

 

14 pitchers, 12 position players. Much more even compare to recent polls, where it was weighted more heavily with pitchers.

[Jenkins5]

Most interesting thing to me is just how deep this system is. This is one of the hardest list I have done. Prior to draft or trades we could graduate a lot of talent such as Arcia, Phillips, Lopez, Hader, Davies, Houser, Wagner, Reed, Rivera, Cravy, Barrios.....can still be in great shape with a great young wave.

 

Trent Clark

Gilbert Lara

Kodi Mederois

Clint Coulter

Cody Ponce

Monte Harrison

Devin Williams

Jake Gatewood

Marcos Diplan

Tyrone Taylor

Demi Orimoloye

Miguel Diaz

Nathan Kirby

Victor Roache

Chris McFarland

Jorge Ortega

Wei-Chung Wang

Brandon Diaz

Cy Sneed

Dustin Houle

Franley Mallen

Malik Collymore

David Burkhalter

David Denson

Tyrone Perry

Joantgel Segovia

Taylor Williams

 

And continue to roll on

 

Now mix in a top 5 pick, early 2nd, 2nd rd competitive, and early 3rd, 4th, 5th.

 

Then look who they can add in possible trades for Lucroy, Segura, Khris Davis and Lind over the winter.... This system is very exciting!

[Mass Haas]

Via BP Milwaukee -- NL Central’s Top-50 Prospects

[Noche]

Via BP Milwaukee -- NL Central’s Top-50 Prospects

 

 

They have Demi Orimoloye ranked above Ian Happ. That makes me happy but give me Happ right now 100 out of 100 times.

[Jenkins5]

Via BP Milwaukee -- NL Central’s Top-50 Prospects

 

 

They have Demi Orimoloye ranked above Ian Happ. That makes me happy but give me Happ right now 100 out of 100 times.

 

The difference in the scouts eyes. I 100 of 100 take the absolute freak who has nearly unmatchable (outside of Harrison) athleticism, speed, power combo, with the ability to possibly be a major force. Happ is more of the safe sure fire everyday MLB starter but don't think his ceiling even comes close to Demi's. With that said, Al Davis proved that freaks don't always equal freakish production.

 

What a great list! When was the last time Brewers system was so deep! It's exciting! That list didn't even include a few guys like Houser who seem to be sky rocketing their stock, Michael Reed as well.

 

To note on Houser, he to me as a starter at worse is a Peralta/Jungmann, big body, power arm who gets tons of ground balls, keeps 3-4ERA, doesnt k many guys. That said, he reminds me of Jimmy Nelson if he can continue to be able to take up Ks and be more dominant. Difference is, at Housers age, Jimmy was just starting to prove people wrong that he was a just safe wasted 2nd round pick and getting ready to break out in BC.... Houser will be in AAA, knocking on the MLB door as he as well starts to prove he was worth the high 2nd round pick