Methodology
The offseason can be a lonely time for the average baseball fan, but for the dynasty league player, it’s different. The offseason is the time to take a look at the player pool and make adjustments to your roster or find players to target in a trade. Keep in mind that this list, and really any list, is a snapshot in time. When I refresh my rankings around midseason this year, they could be drastically different. New players will emerge, while others will fall to the wayside.
A lot of thought and analysis went into this list. Tools vs. proximity is the biggest battle any list-maker faces. Obviously, the players’ talent comes into account, but I also factor in how close they are to helping my team. For example, take Jesus Luzardo versus Casey Mize. Both battled injuries last year, but Mize will start 2020 in Triple-A while Luzardo should start the season in the A’s rotation and can help me in my quest for the title this year.
What I Care About Stats-wise
Any fantasy player can become overwhelmed when looking at the stats. When it comes to prospects, we do not have easy access to pitch velocity, pitch mix, exit velocity, and launch angle like we do for major league players, aside from what exists on The Board. This makes evaluating prospects from a stats-level view more difficult. For hitters, I tend to look at walk rate, strikeout rate, estimated fly ball distance, batting average, and BABIP. For pitchers, I tend to consider walk rate, strikeout rate, swinging strike rate, ERA, and WHIP. Once I gather the numbers, I try to paint a picture of what those numbers are saying. Typically, there is not a strict “Batter X must hit 20 home runs with a .310 AVG” standard that must be met for me to be interested. A batter could be hitting below .280 but have a BABIP of .260; maybe he is getting unlucky. Another factor I consider is age relative to level. If I see that a hitter in Triple-A is absolutely killing it, but is 28 years old, I’m not as interested. Conversely, if Luis Garcia, a 19 year old, is struggling in Double-A, I can overlook his struggles a bit. Below is the Age to Level scale I use:
- Triple-A: Typical Age range is 23-24. Age 25 depends. 26+ is old
- Double-A: 22-23. 24 depends. 25+ is old
- High-A: 20-22. 23 depends. 24+ is old
- Low-A: 19-21. 22 depends. 23+ is old
- Short-A: 19-20. 21/22 for draft year guys only. 22+ is old
- GCL: 17-19. 20 for draft year guys only. 21+ is old
Without further ado, here are my Top 100 Dynasty prospects. These rankings are now available on The Board on the 2020 Fantasy Rankings tab, where you can also see Paul Sporer’s Top 25 Re-Draft Rankings!
1. Wander Franco, SS, TBR
There has been a bunch of potential top tier talent in the minors recently, Acuna Jr., Vlad Jr., and now Wander Franco. Franco has a plus (and possibly plus-plus) hit tool to go along with above average power. While he is an above average runner, I’m unsure of how many stolen bases he will contribute as he had a 61% success rate in Low-A ball. If the possibility of less than 20 steals is your only flaw, you are doing something right.
2. Jo Adell, OF LAA
The attempted trade for Joc Pederson this offseason probably means the Angels would like Jo Adell to begin the year in Triple-A. This doesn’t appear to be a team manipulating service time, as Adell still has some things to work on. The 20-year-old processes a plus power and average hit tool. While he does have a bit of swing and miss in his game and a few stolen bases, Adell has the chance to smash 35-40 home runs at his peak.
3. Gavin Lux, 2B, LAD
Lux should be the everyday 2B in the stacked Dodgers lineup this season. He has great bat-to-ball skills with well-above average power. While he will only chip in a steal or two, his AVG/OBP and 20-plus home run potential make him extremely valuable.
4. Julio Rodriguez, OF, SEA
It is pretty amazing what J-Rod accomplished at the age of 18. The Mariners were super aggressive in his initial assignment to Low-A but it didn’t phase the kid. He was promoted to Hi-A and was invited to the Arizona Fall League; Rodriguez was easily the youngest player there. He has plus power and a slightly above average hit tool that could be plus or better as he refines his approach. He looks destined for big things in the majors.
5. Luis Robert, OF, CHW
Robert’s 2019 season was absolutely insane: he moved from Hi-A to Triple-A, went 30/30 and signed an extension with the White Sox, which pretty much guarantees he begins the year in the majors. There are a few warts in Robert’s game, most importantly his recognition of offspeed pitches and SwStk% hovering around 17%. His initial run in the majors might be a bit shaky, but his potential is one to bet on.
6. MacKenzie Gore, LHP, SDP
Easily the best pitching prospect in the game, Gore threw a career-high 101 innings between Hi-A and Double-A so we should expect about 130-140 innings for Gore this year. Where exactly he will throw those innings is the question. He should begin the year in Double-A but if the Padres are competitive, I have little doubt they would promote him to the majors. His four-pitch mix is pretty advanced and should rack up plenty of strikeouts while not killing your ratio stats.
7. Andrew Vaughn, 1B, CHW
While it might seem a little high for a 1B to rank, Andrew Vaughn arguably was the most complete pure hitter in last year’s draft class. Since being drafted, the White Sox have promoted him aggressively and he has done well. With a 65-grade hit tool and great eye at the plate, he is a must own either in an AVG or OBP league.
8. Dylan Carlson, OF, STL
Dylan Carlson’s 2019 campaign from Double-A to Triple-A took many by surprise (though, he was on the FanGraphs Picks to Click list last year) and he has shot up many prospect lists. Carlson is a switch-hitting outfielder with above average hit and power. He will probably begin the season in Triple-A but should make his debut this year. While he is currently playing center, he fits better in a corner. He should be able to chip in a couple of steals in his first few seasons in the majors while hitting around .275 to .280.
9. Jarred Kelenic, OF, SEA
Kelenic’s stock was already pretty high, but after moving up three levels, from Low-A to Double-A, the 20-year-old outfielder’s stock keeps rising. Right now, his swing is geared for more of a compact/line drive approach. If he can add a bit more loft, he might be able to get to more home run power. If not, you should still expect 20/20 seasons for many years to come.
10. Carter Kieboom, SS, WSN
Don’t let his 43 plate appearances scare you away. Kieboom has excellent bat-to-ball skills and patience at the plate. He should see plenty of time this year in Washington at 3B as he has the arm to stick there and Anthony Rendon is gone. While he will never be a superstar, his high-floor with his above average hit and power, he will be one of your glue guys.
11. Marco Luciano, SS, SFG
What Luciano did in the AZL as an 18 year old is nothing short of impressive. He consistently barrelled up the ball while showing an impressive eye at the plate. He should be able to stick at short but there is a non-zero chance he’ll have to shift off the position. Even with that being said, the power potential is too much to pass up.
12. Jesus Luzardo, LHP, OAK
A shoulder injury ruined Luzardo’s chance of moving off the list this year. He did make it to the majors last September and looks like a shoo-in for a spot in the rotation to start the year. It is pretty impressive how Luzardo is both a strikeout and ground ball pitcher. He only threw 55 innings due to the injury so his workload this year will be rather limited. If he can stay healthy, he profiles as an easy #2 starter with plenty of strikeouts and a miniscule WHIP.
13. Mitch Keller, RHP, PIT
Unlike Luzardo, Mitch Keller’s debut was shockingly bad. In 48 innings, he had an awful 7.13 ERA but 3.78 SIERA is more in line with his skills. It also doesn’t help matters when you post a .475 BABIP and 59.6 LOB%. His 22% K-BB to go along with his increased SwStrk% indicates there is a bit more growth. It is unclear how the new regime in Pittsburgh will deploy his arsenal but things are looking up for Keller.
14. Matt Manning, RHP, DET
If the Tigers were in their competitive window, Manning might be making his case to make the rotation. Manning, unlike his compadre Casey Mize, has never had a major injury. His walks have come down while his K% has stayed around 28%. He is a workhorse starter type with the chance to be the ace of the Tigers in the future.
15. Forrest Whitley, RHP, HOU
The last couple of seasons have been tough for Forrest Whitley. While he looks the part (6’7” and 195 lbs) he was plagued with injury and saw his walk rate shoot up to 16% last year. He still has some of the best stuff in the minors and it is too soon to back away from the 22-year-old.
16. Casey Mize, RHP, DET
If it wasn’t for a shoulder injury, we might have seen Casey Mize in Detroit in 2019. His advanced arsenal has been dominant against lesser competition but his injury history should be cause for concern. If he is able to kick the injury bug, he as the ceiling to be your #1 SP and floor of a #2 SP.
17. Drew Waters, OF, ATL
Drew Waters had a breakout season in 2019. His swing has more of a line drive approach but should be able to smash doubles all around the park. Waters is pretty aggressive in the box and with walk rates around 6% he is not as valuable in OBP leagues as he would be in AVG leagues. With that in mind, his speed/potential power makes him very enticing for fantasy players.
18. Adley Rutschman, C, BAL
It is not often you find a switch-hitting catcher with plus hit and power. He barrells the ball with a sweet uppercut swing that he has sprayed to all fields. It is an easy 25+ home run potential especially when you call Camden Yards home.
19. A.J. Puk, LHP, OAK
Puk was limited to 30.2 innings in 2019 in his return from TJS. His fastball averages 96 mph and has a wicked 89 mph slider. He, like his teammate Luzardo, will have limited innings in 2020. If Oakland sticks with him as a starter, he profiles as a #2/#3 type but there is a non-zero chance they stick him in the bullpen and he becomes a lights out closer.
20. Brendan McKay, LHP, TBR
At this point, especially with all the off season moves from an offensive standpoint, McKay the Hitter is a thing of the past. However, it does not damper his fantasy value. While he struggled in his first 49 innings in the majors, McKay has been lights out in the minors. He very rarely gives up a walk and has been able to limit home runs. Time will tell if Tampa Bay will give him more innings per start, as he was usually pulled in the 5th inning during games. While wins might be harder to come by, he will greatly help you in your ratio categories.
21. Nick Madrigal, 2B, CHW
Nick Madrigal might be one of the hardest hitters to strike out in the minor leagues, as he has consistently walked more than he has struck out. However, expect little to none over-the-fence power from him. His plus plus hit tool to go along with his plus speed makes him a must own in all dynasty leagues. He moved up three levels and finished the year in Triple-A. With some exciting off season moves, the White Sox are looking to compete, so we should see Madrigal make his major league debut this year.
22. Vidal Brujan, 2B, TBR
While Madrigal has the better hit tool, Brujan might be the better base stealer with a bit more pop in his bat. Brujan is not necessarily taking advantage of younger, more inexperienced catchers either. During the past two seasons, he has moved from Low-A ball to Double-A and stole a total of 103 bases, with 24 of them coming in Double-A. We might be looking at the future lead off hitter for the Rays and with Wander Franco hitting behind him, you should easily expect 90+ run seasons.
23. Dustin May, RHP, LAD
May might have one of the hardest sinkers in the majors right now, which is a major worm killer. He throws the sinker about 50% of the time and unless he incorporates another swing and miss pitch, do not expect a high amount of swinging strikes. After five starts, he was moved to the bullpen down the stretch. He should be a starter moving forward, especially with the trades the Dodgers made this offseason. He profiles as a low #2 to #3 starter type.
24. Alex Kirilloff, OF, MIN
Kirilloff has been hindered by injuries to begin his professional career. He had Tommy John surgery and missed the entire 2017 season, then wrist injuries plagued him last year. He has a plus hit with plus power but looks destined to move from the outfield to first base. The 22-year-old should begin the year in Double-A and quickly move to Triple-A. Miguel Sano has also had trouble staying on the field so he could be an injury away from making his debut this year.
25. Jasson Dominguez, OF, NYY
It might seem pretty high to rank a 16-year-old player this far up the list but what “The Martian” has shown scouts/evaluators has been impressive. He might have some of the loudest tools in the game and it will be interesting to see where the Yankees start him next year. If they follow their AL East competitors in previous years, he should begin the year in the Appalachian League.
26. Kristian Robinson, OF, ARI
The Bahamas has produced some pretty impressive players in recent years and the best might be Kristian Robinson. While his swing doesn’t have the lift as you would expect, his plus power comes from his raw strength. At 18-years-old, he is already hitting balls with exit velocities in the 90 mph range. While he has plus speed now, he might slow down as he fills out a bit more.
27. Jeter Downs, 2B/SS, BOS
Looks like another win for the Dodgers development staff. Downs started to put the ball in the air more going from a 0.53 GB/FB to 0.46 GB/FB while also increasing his line drive rate. Over his two stops between Low-A and AA, he went 24/24 with a .276 AVG and .362 OBP. He will probably shift to 2B once he reaches the majors and should be a solid contributor in every category.
28. Bobby Witt Jr, SS, KCR
Witt Jr was drafted number two overall due to his five tool potential and ability to stick at short. While he struggled a bit in his first taste of the majors, I’m willing to give him a mulligan and he should shoot back up prospect lists next year.
29. CJ Abrams, SS, SDP
While Witt Jr struggled, Abrams shocked the world in the AZL hitting .401/.442/.662 with 14 stolen bases. He has 70 grade speed but his power numbers might have been boosted by his eight triples. With steals at a premium, Abrams is a sure fire lock to go in the first five picks in your FYPD. Time will tell if his over the fence power will improve.
30. Royce Lewis, SS, MIN
Royce Lewis was on the struggle bus last year hitting only .235/.287/.372 across two levels, albeit most of the season was spent in the Florida State league, a notorious pitchers league. Coming out of the draft, his advance feel for hit has regressed, mainly due to his huge leg kick which is causing him to be late on heaters. He played well in the Arizona Fall league but his star has faded a bit. Lewis should still make it to the majors, just not the all-star we thought he was going to be.
31. Nate Pearson, RHP, TOR
The biggest obstacle for Pearson is staying healthy, and if he can do that we are looking at the ace of the Blue Jays staff. He rose three levels and threw his first 100+ inning season. He should begin the year in Triple-A and be in the majors by the summer, if everything goes to plan.
32. Michael Kopech, RHP, CHW
Kopech made it to the majors but fell victim to TJ, which had him on the shelf for the entire 2019 season. We have all seen his 70 grade fastball and wicked slider so as long as he can stay healthy he should be an excellent complement to Lucas Giolito in the White Sox rotation. If not, there is a non-zero chance he becomes a nasty late inning reliever or closer.
33. Trevor Larnach, OF, MIN
With his patience at the plate, Larnach is a must add in OBP leagues. The power he showed in his final year in college has not shown up in professional ball yet. At every stop from Low-A to AA he has either posted a 148 wRC+ or 149 wRC+ with averages between .295-.315 but has ground ball rates in the high 40% range. If he could just lift the ball just a tad more, we could see some more power.
34. Nico Hoerner, 2B, CHC
If it wasn’t for a hairline fracture on his wrist this past spring, we might have seen Hoerner in the majors earlier. Hoerner has a plus hit tool and average power so you should expect steady/solid production a la 2010 or 2011 Ben Zobrist. It is still up in the air whether he will begin the year with the big club but he should get more PAs in Chicago than Iowa.
35. Cristian Pache, OF, ATL
Pache is an elite defender in center and started to make some gains between Double-A and Triple-A last year. His BB% increased by almost four percentage points and home runs increased from nine to twelve. While he has 65 grade speed, he hasn’t figured out the art of stealing a base. He was caught more times than he was successful. He will begin the year in Triple-A and is an injury or two away from making his debut, but he’s probably a worse fantasy prospect than real life baseball one.
36. JJ Bleday, OF, MIA
In his last season in college, his power numbers exploded, hitting 26 home runs in 65 games. He was sent to the Florida State league, which is a notorious pitchers league, and performed okay. Don’t be discouraged, draft him in your FYPD. He has quick hands and a smooth, compact swing that should produce enough power. With the aggressive assignment to Hi-A, the Marlins will probably assign him to Double-A where we should see the real Bleday shine.
37. Riley Greene, OF, DET
Riley Greene was one of the most advanced prep hitters in the draft last year. While he was tested in his first go-round in professional ball, Greene is the type of hitter you gamble on. He will bring his smooth swing and above average hit/power to Low-A ball to start the year.
38. Nolan Jones, 3B, CLE
Just like Trevor Larnach before, Nolan Jones is a must add in OBP leagues. He has posted double-digit walk rates throughout his professional career. He hit an impressive eight home runs in 49 games after being promoted to Double-A this year. However, he has a below average hit tool so the swing and miss will always be part of his game.
39. Spencer Howard, RHP, PHI
After throwing 112 innings in 2018, shoulder fatigue limited Howard to 71 innings between Hi-A and Double-A this year. However, in those 71 innings he dominated hitters with over 30% strikeout rates and walk rates below 7.5%. With the state of the Phillies rotation, it is highly probable we see Howard in Citizens Bank Park this summer.
40. Evan White, 1B, SEA
After signing a six year deal with the Mariners, Evan White has a clear spot in the Mariners opening day lineup. What was most impressive about White’s season last year was hitting 18 home runs in Arkansas, which is one of the hardest stadiums in which to hit home runs. His above-average hit and power remind me a bit of Kyle Seager.
41. Alek Thomas, OF, ARI
For being more on the smaller side, Thomas has shown a surprising amount of power. I guess being the kid of the White Sox conditioning coach doesn’t hurt. If he can start pulling the ball more in the air that power should play up.
42. Corbin Carroll, OF, ARI
Carroll, like Thomas, is on the smaller side but is a 70 grade runner with a 60 grade hit tool. After being drafted, the prep OF hit .295/.405/.476 with 18 stolen bases which is pretty impressive for someone so young. He should begin his 2019 in Low-A.
43. Ian Anderson, RHP, ATL
The 21-year-old righty dominated Double-A before losing command in Triple-A. Anderson’s best pitch is his curveball, which pairs well with his average fastball. His walk rate is quite obscene and is something he will have to address if he wants to reach his potential of a #2/#3 SP type. He is one injury away from making his debut in Atlanta though.
44. Sean Murphy, C, OAK
Murphy will be the Oakland A’s starting catcher, bearing a catastrophe during the spring. Always known more for his work behind the dish, his above average hit and power should drive in plenty of runs this year and many years to come.
45. Oneil Cruz, SS, PIT
Not only is his size impressive, but also the fact that a 6’7” guy can actually play as a passable shortstop. He missed time this year after suffering from a fractured foot while sliding into second base. Obviously, someone this tall is going to struggle with strikeouts due to his long levers but, he is looking like Aaron Judge more and more.
46. Sixto Sanchez, RHP, MIA
Sanchez has a fastball that touches 100 mph with one of the minors’ best changeups and a nasty slider. Strangely, he cannot get above 8.5 K/9 but has elite control. The Marlins have been pretty good at developing pitchers so I’m sticking with Sixto. He should begin the season in Triple-A and debut sometime later this summer unless injuries bring him up sooner.
47. Ke’Bryan Hayes, 3B, PIT
Hayes is an elite defender who missed some time due to a dislocated finger. After returning, the power he began to show returned, and he hit .291 with seven home runs and stole four bases. With his above average hit tool, he will be a solid glue guy for your squad.
48. Noelvi Marte, SS, SEA
Marte had an amazing debut in the DSL this summer where his power/speed combo shined brightly. It will be interesting to see how aggressive the Mariners are with Marte. He might be assigned to the South Atlantic league like Julio Rodriquez was last year if he looks great during minor league spring training.
49. Luis Patiño, RHP, SDP
My favorite part of the Futures Game this summer was watching Patiño’s swagger and upper nineties fastballs strike out Ronaldo Hernandez, Royce Lewis, and Jo Adell to end the seventh inning. While he is on the smaller side for an everyday starter, he has dominated at every level so far, so there is little doubt it will continue when he returns to Double-A this year.
50. Grayson Rodriguez, RHP
Grayson Rodriguez spent his entire season in A ball where he threw an superb 94 innings with 24.7 K/BB%. He has made strides with his pitch mix, which now is an impressive fastball/changeup/slider/curveball. If he can keep his command in check, he is tracking to be a frontline starter in Camden Yards.
51. Tyler Freeman, SS, CLE
Freeman makes an amazing amount of contact but it’s doubtful he will ever reach double digit home run totals. However, it is really hard to sleep on someone with a 60 grade hit tool. If he hits at the top of a major league lineup, you can expect Freeman to score you a bunch of runs.
52. Joey Bart, C, SFG
Bart was hit on the hand twice which caused him to miss a bunch of time this year. He is a power hitting backstop that is an excellent game caller behind the dish. He should be the heir apparent to Buster Posey soon.
53. Jordan Groshans, 3B, TOR
After 23 games, his breakout season was over due to a foot injury. He should return to Low-A ball but don’t be turned off if he struggles. His potential of plus power at 3B is very exciting. You might be able to buy low since he did not play much last season.
54. George Valera, OF, CLE
Valera’s power was on display during his 46 games in the New York-Penn league. The 19-year-old smashed an impressive eight balls out of the park to go along with his seven doubles. While the strikeout rate is a bit concerning, that amount of power from someone so young is hard to pass up.
55. Brennen Davis, OF, CHC
Davis added a bunch of muscle prior to the 2019 season and put on a power show in Low-A South Bend. In his 50 games, he hit eight home runs and nine doubles to go along with his four stolen bases.
56. Alec Bohm, 3B, PHI
Bohm’s bat-to-ball skills are pretty impressive for the amount of raw power he has, and consistently has BB/K around the low to mid 0.80 range. However, even with the amount of raw power, I’m still a bit unsure with how much power he will show in Citizens Bank Park. He hit 14 home runs in 63 games in Double-A but his stadium in Reading is the easiest park to hit home runs in. There is also a big question on where he will play. He is currently playing third but with his below average athleticism he might have to move off the position in the future.
57. Tarik Skubal, LHP, DET
I don’t think any other pitcher has risen as much on prospects lists as Tarik Skubal did this year. He began the year in Hi-A and struck out 97 batters in 80.1 innings with an arsenal that appeared a bit too advanced for the level. Surprisingly enough, his strikeout rate increased to 48.2% with the promotion to Double-A. He should begin the season back there, and looks to be a No. 2 or 3 starter in the future, as long as he keeps the walks that crept up in Double-A in check.
58. Jared Oliva, OF, PIT
Oliva impressed this year in Double-A as a 24-year-old. He stole an impressive 36 bases in 46 attempts with six home runs and 24 doubles. With the trade of Starling Marte this winter, we might see Oliva running wild in PNC Park this summer.
59. Ryan Mountcastle, 1B, BAL
It is crazy to think Mountcastle was drafted as a shortstop as he is now a hitter without a home. He spent most of the season at first base, but has also played a bit of third and left field. He was a surprising non call-up this September but should get some playing time in Camden Yards this year.
60. Abraham Toro, 3B, HOU
Toro has an above average hit tool and did well everywhere he went except for his brief stint with the big league club in Houston this year. I’m still a believer in the bat and he should fill in adequately when one of your everyday hitters is out.
61. Brendan Rodgers, 2B, COL
Rodgers’ season ended early when he tore the labrum in his shoulder; he had surgery in the offseason. It is still unclear if he will have a starting job when the season starts as he is blocked by Ryan McMahon and Garrett Hampson. There have been many Nolan Arenado trade rumors this winter, so maybe his future home is 3B.
62. Nolan Gorman, 3B, STL
There is loads of power in Gorman’s bat but he struggled in his first taste of professional ball. While the strikeout rate isn’t what you’d like to see, he smashed 15 home runs across Low- and High-A with an average exit velocity of 91 mph. He was also younger than most of his competition. There is still 30-plus HR power with a .270-.275 average guy here.
63. Geraldo Perdomo, SS, ARI
What Perdomo lacks in power, he more than makes up for his ability to get on base. Between Low-A and High-A, Perdomo’s pateince led him to a 67/70 K/BB. While he stole 26 bases this year, he was successful only 67% of the time. He is 6-foot-3 and 184 pounds so there is some question if he will continue to run if he fills out just a bit more.
64. Logan Gilbert, RHP, SEA
At 6-foot-6, 225 pounds, Logan Gilbert has the prototypical starting pitcher’s build. All four of his pitches grade average or above and he can throw all of them for strikes, which he does quite often. He got over the 100 innings pitched threshold this year and with the Mariners being pretty aggressive with their top prospects, we should see him in Triple-A early in the season. He is an alumnus of Stetson University, so hopefully he will join fellow alumni Jacob deGrom and Corey Kluber as a top pitcher in the league in the near future.
65. Triston Casas, 1B, BOS
Casas spent most of his time last season in A ball and swatted 19 balls out the park, which is pretty impressive considering that balls in Salem rarely leave the park. While he is playing 3B right now, his below average defense will shift him over to 1B and maybe DH. Even with the move, Casas is someone to watch due to his above average power and decent bat-to-ball skills for a slugger. This offseason, Casas told reporters he is now 6-foot-5 and 255 pounds, which is shocking for someone just 20-years-old.
66. Xavier Edwards, SS, TBR
Edwards and his 80 grade speed moved to the Rays system this offseason as part of the Tommy Pham trade. While he will not generate much power, like Madrigal and Brujan before, his value comes in his ability to make contact and steal bases. It will be interesting to see where Edwards plays in Tampa Bay, a team that isn’t exactly lacking in exciting middle infielders.
67. Jose Urquidy, RHP, HOU
Urquidy will not be long for the list as he is penciled into the Astros’ rotation. His four-pitch mix is pretty impressive and he has been able to limit walks during his time in Triple-A and the majors.
68. Hunter Bishop, OF, SFG
One of the most improved players in college baseball, Hunter Bishop was taken 10th overall by the Giants this past summer. He made a pretty drastic swing change, moving his hands from his chest towards his ears, which helped him unlock his power. He hit .342/.479/.478 with 22 HR and 12 stolen bases. He should be able to stick in CF with his above-speed. He performed well after being drafted, but there is little that we can glean from a 32-game sample. We should see Bishop begin the year in High-A and hopefully reach Double-A by season’s end. While he will likely always have swing and miss issues, the potential for power and speed is very enticing.
69. Daniel Lynch, LHP, KCR
The southpaw’s velocity is pretty impressive. The 6-foot-6, 190 pound lefty missed some time this year due to arm soreness but once he returned, he carved up hitters left and right. He was invited to the AFL to catch up on innings he missed during the IL stint and was as dominating as ever. Right now, he profiles as a No. 2 or 3 but if he perfects that changeup, watch out!
70. Simeon Woods Richardson, RHP, TOR
Not only does Simeon Woods Richardson have an impressive four-pitch mix for a 19-year-old, his ability to consistently throw strikes is amazing for someone this young, and he has not looked overmatched pitching at such a high level for his age. He looks on track to be a solid No. 2 or 3 starter for the Jays.
71. George Kirby, RHP, SEA
Pitchers with elite command like Kirby’s are like unicorns. His junior year, he walked six batters in 88.1 innings; he issued zero free passes in Low-A after being drafted this year by the Mariners. He has a mid-90s fastball and the potential for three average to above average secondaries. An advanced pitcher, you should expect him to move quickly through the Mariners system.
72. Josiah Gray, RHP, LAD
It is pretty impressive how far Gray has progressed since moving to the mound his junior year of college. He has a decent slider that plays well off his plus fastball. He moved up three levels this season and dominated each one. He profiles more as a No. 3 or 4 starter but could raise his stock further if he is able to repeat his mechanics more consistently.
73. Brandon Marsh, OF, LAA
Marsh dealt with some knick-knack injuries (slight finger and leg dings) but made strides in lowering his swinging strike rate and stolen base efficiency. He has the potential for plus power, but unless he starts elevating the ball more, it is unclear how much home run potential he will have in the majors. He should begin the season in Double-A and move to Triple-A by mid-season.
74. Austin Hays, OF, BAL
Hays has struggled with injuries the past two seasons but he could be an available buy-low candidate in your dynasty league. He has an inside track to the Orioles starting center field job and performed well during his September call-up. Like many Orioles hitting prospects, he doesn’t walk a ton, so he is less valuable in OBP leagues. You should expect a .250-.260 average with 15 home runs and 10-15 stolen bases.
75. Heliot Ramos, OF, SFG
Heliot Ramos has been an above league average performer at every stop, and when you factor in that he’s usually been one of the youngest players in whatever league he’s played in, the production is even more impressive. It will be interesting to see if Ramos returns to his 2017 form, when he pulled the ball more. He is currently playing center, but will probably shift to a corner once he gets to San Francisco.
76. Taylor Trammell, OF, SDP
Trammell made his way to Double-A this year but put up some pretty underwhelming numbers. His average was below .240 for the first time in his career, though I’m sure the career low .295 BABIP didn’t help matters. With that being said, Trammell is a 70-grade runner and should easily steal 15-20 bags in the majors, and his patience at the plate makes him a must-add in OBP leagues. Everyone seems to be down on Trammell, so this might be the best time to buy before he shoots back up the ranks.
77. Luis Campusano, C, SDP
Campusano had a breakout season in High-A, where he went .325/.396/.509 and his walk rate of 10.7% was oh so close to his strikeout rate of 11.7%. His increased FB% from 26.8% to 34.1% indicates there has been a tangible change to his profile. If he can keep the fly ball gains, the plus power should play nicely at the catching position. He has a plus arm and is able to block balls well, and he profiles well as a catcher if and when the robot umps are implemented.
78. Nick Solak, 3B/DH, TEX
Solak was traded from the Rays to the Rangers this season partly due to the 40-man roster crunch Tampa was facing this offseason. He had an excellent debut in the majors, flashing power (9.2 barrel%) and speed (sprint speed of 28.7 ft/s or 89th percentile). He does hit the ball on the ground quite a bit, so the HR output is going to be a bit muted. He should get ABs in Arlington this year but where he plays in the field is a bit of a question mark.
79. Shane Baz, RHP, TBR
Baz has an electric fastball/slider combo. He was invited to the AFL and touched 100 mph with that heater. However, there is still work to be done with his control, and it is looking more and more likely he will end up in the pen. If he does, it is back of the bullpen material.
80. Josh Jung, 3B, TEX
While we haven’t seen the power we were expecting from Jung, his transition to pro ball was impressive. After being drafted, he went from Rookie ball to the Sally League and did not miss a beat. He played in 40 games in A ball with a .287/.363/.389 line and a wRC+ of 121. He should be a fast mover in the Rangers system.
81. Daulton Varsho, C, ARI
Varsho is a unique player. He is a 5-foot-10, 190 pound backstop with above average speed. His future at the position is murky, but if he is able to get enough playing time to qualify at catcher, he is someone to take a gamble on.
82. Jonathan India, 3B, CIN
While it is starting to look like the power output from his last year in college was an outlier, India’s advanced approach at the plate makes him worth rostering, especially in OBP leagues. As with a bunch of Reds hitters, his future home is a bit in flux but India should be a solid contributor across all categories.
83. Jose Garcia, SS, CIN
After stumbling in his first taste of professional ball, Garcia had a breakout campaign in the Florida State League. He improved in every single category, while playing in fewer games. If he can continue making gains, he should be a power/speed threat who needs to be rostered.
84. Erick Pena, OF, KCR
Pena is the second 2019 J2 signing on the list, and has yet to play in a professional game. Judging by the video and public reports, Pena has plus bat speed and the potential to have plus power. If the 17-year-old reaches his ceiling, we are looking at a superstar.
85. Jazz Chisholm, SS, MIA
Chisholm is extremely aggressive at the plate, posting a swinging strike rate lower than 15% only once in his career, but he isn’t afraid to take a walk. He has plus bat speed to go along with plus power and since coming over from Arizona, he’s begun to pull the ball more, and hit more line drives. He was added to the 40-man this offseason, so there is a slight chance we see him playing shortstop in Miami later this summer.
86. Luis Matos, OF, SFG
Matos was one of the great international signing made by the Giants in 2018. He hit .362/.430/.570 in 55 games in the DSL before coming Stateside. Matos has plus power and speed, which might translate to double digit home runs and steals once he reaches the majors.
87. Sam Hilliard, OF, COL
Hillard is a great power/speed combo who calls Coors Field home. If he can push Ian Desmond to the bench, he should be able to rack up plenty of counting stats.
88. Josh Lowe, OF, TBR
Lowe started to lift the ball more last year and sustained those gains this year. He also flashed his plus power and speed by hitting 18 home runs to go along with his 30 steals.
89. Brailyn Marquez, LHP, CHC
Marquez struck out 128 batters over two levels with a plus to plus-plus fastball. It is pretty impressive to see a southpaw consistently hit double digits while also getting batters to hit it into the ground. He still needs to work on his command and changeup, but this is easily the most intriguing arm in the Cubs system in years.
90. Luis Garcia, SS, WSN
The Nationals were very aggressive in his assignment to Double-A and he was the youngest player at the level for most of the season. Don’t be scared away by his season-long stat line. From August 1, he hit .285/.315/.453 before slashing .291/.341/.392 in the Arizona Fall League. He also showed gains against left-handed pitching, decreasing his strikeout rate from 23% to 15%. I’m still a believer in the skill set and he should be the everyday second baseman for the Nationals in a few years.
91. Orelvis Martinez, SS, TOR
The Blue Jays were super aggressive in assigning Martinez to the Gulf Coast League after signing him in 2018, and he answered the call. In his first 40 games, he slashed .275/.352/.549 with a 17.8 K% — impressive for someone so young.
92. Nick Lodolo, LHP, CIN
Lodolo might have been the safest pitcher in last year’s draft class. He has a plus fastball and curve, with an above-average changeup. In his first 18.1 innings in professional baseball, he posted a 30:0 K:BB ratio. He should move quickly through the Reds system because he is such an advanced pitcher.
93. Alexander Canario, OF, SFG
Canario has plus power and bat speed but like a typical slugger, he struggles to make contact. If he can improve his approach, he is a middle of the order type bat. If not, he will flame out in the minors.
94. DL Hall, LHP, BAL
The 21-year-old Hall has a plus fastball that reaches the mid-90s and an above average curve. He’ll need to develop a solid third pitch and work on his command but he projects to be a No. 2 or 3 starter type who will give you plenty of strikeouts, but might hurt the WHIP ratio category.
95. Edward Cabrera, RHP, MIA
Cabrera vastly improved on his 2018 campaign by changing his arm slot and adding a bit more velocity, and was one of the biggest pitching breakouts of 2019. He split his time between Hi- and Double-A, posting double digit swinging strike rates at both stops. Once he gets a feel for the changeup, NL East batters better watch out, as Sanchez and Cabrera will be a devastating 1-2 punch for the Marlins.
96. Hunter Greene, RHP, CIN
Greene had Tommy John in April so we won’t see him until later this season. Before the injury, he was pitching well in Low-A. He pounds the zone with his 100+ heater but it is still a bit too straight. Once he returns to the mound, I have faith in the talent as well as his work ethic and expect him to rebound quickly.
97. Clarke Schmidt, RHP, NYY
Not only did Schmidt return to the mound in 2018 from Tommy John, he also returned to his dominating college profile. Schmidt is able to get a bunch of ground balls to go along with a double digit swinging strike rate. He still has some work to do on his command but that is to be expected for someone returning from surgery. He profiles as a No. 3- 4 starter type.
98. Kyle Wright, RHP, ATL
With Cole Hamels irritating his shoulder in weighted-ball exercises, Anderson and Wright have the perfect opportunity to make the Braves roster. He needs to work on his command but his four above pitches should work in the majors.
99. Ronny Mauricio, SS, NYM
This ranking is more about belief in the tools rather than what Mauricio has done in his career. While there is still a bunch of work that he and the Mets need to do on the swing, he has the potential to have plus power while flashing a plus glove at short as a switch-hitter.
100. Issac Paredes, 3B, DET
While Paredes is not a super sexy fantasy asset, he has hit at pretty much every stop. He has an excellent eye at the plate and very rarely swings and misses when he does swing. He spent the entire year in Double-A and slashed .282/.368/.416 with a 11 K% and 10 BB%. He has a plus hit tool with average pop, which could fit in nicely in the Tigers lineup.
