Posted on by Michael Halpern

A Top 50 Sneak Peek of the 2021 Top 1,000 Fantasy Baseball Dynasty Rankings

Welcome to the 3rd Annual Top 1,000 Fantasy Baseball Dynasty Rankings. We start today with the first of three posts in the Sneak Peek series, which will lead up to the full release of the Top 1,000 in late January/early February. 16-team, deep roster, 5×5 category league is what I had in my mind during the process. Here is A Top 50 Sneak Peek of the 2021 Top 1,000 Fantasy Baseball Dynasty Rankings:

Click here for the 2020 Top 1,000 Fantasy Baseball Dynasty Rankings
Click here for the 2019 Top 1,000 Fantasy Baseball Dynasty Rankings

Player Name TEAM, POSITION, AGE (Years.Months on 2021 Opening Day – Months are on a scale of 0-11 … I know it is not mathematically correct, but I do all of this manually)

Projections (Hitters): R/HR/RBI/AVG/OBP/SLG/SB
(Pitchers): Wins/ERA/WHIP/K/Saves

*Prime Projections – These projections are meant to give you a general idea of what I think about a prospect’s future stat profile in a relatively good outcome scenario. I find this helpful as a quick reference to see how a prospect’s tools/skills translate to fantasy categories.

1) Ronald Acuna ATL, OF, 23.3 – I’m a glutton for homers and steals (and Chinese food), and Acuna ranks ahead of Soto in both departments. There is risk Acuna eventually turns into a 3 true outcome slugger as he whiffed at a career high 29.9% rate, pulled the ball a career high 43% of the time, launched the ball a career high 18.6 degrees, and swung at fewer pitches both in and out of the zone, which is why Juan Soto is the no doubt #1 overall pick in almost anything other than standard 5×5. 2021 Projection: 124/42/98/.271/.384/.570/30

2) Juan Soto WASH, OF, 22.5 – Career low 26.1 ft/sec sprint speed and 4.3 degree launch angle, but it didn’t stop Soto from nabbing 6 bags and cranking 13 homers in 47 games. Only thing that could stop him was a positive Covid test that delayed the start of his season until August 5th, and even that he quickly beat with 3 rapid result antigen tests and claims it was a false positive. 2021 Projection: 112/36/109/.309/.431/.596/11

3) Fernando Tatis Jr. SD, SS, 22.3 – New exit velocity King with a whopping 95.9 MPH average, knocking Aaron Judge off the throne after a 4 year run, but major improvements in K% (down 5.9% to 23.7%) is the main reason Tatis is in the conversation for the top overall pick. 2021 Projection: 108/36/101/.279/.367/.563/25

4) Mike Trout LAA, OF, 29.8 – Stole a single base on two attempts in 53 games. Still plenty fast but did slow down slightly with a career low 4.33 home plate to 1B runtime. 2021 Projection: 111/44/105/.288/.417/.603/10

5) Cody Bellinger LAD, OF/1B, 25.9 – Down-ish year mostly due to a .245 BABIP, but exit velocity did drop 1.8 MPH to 89.3 so it wasn’t purely due to bad luck. More importantly, he maintained the major Whiff% gains he made in 2019 with a 23.3% mark. Considering the shortened season and the fact his underlying numbers were more or less in line with career norms, it would be silly to sell low on Bellinger. 2021 Projection: 105/41/105/.275/.371/.575/14

6) Mookie Betts LAD, OF, 28.6 – Jumped on the first pitch 24% of the time in 2020, up from 16.4% in 2019.  It just goes to show that even for the elite, you can never stop making adjustments. “If you’re not getting better, you’re getting worse.” 2021 Projection: 121/33/100/.294/.367/.536/22

7) Trea Turner WASH, SS, 27.9 – Maintained 2019’s exit velocity gains, except this year it showed up in his home run total with 12 dingers in 59 games. The added power hasn’t impacted his speed at all with the 5th fastest sprint speed in the game. On top of all that, he notched a career best 13.9% K%. He’s peaking all over our faces. 2021 Projection: 105/26/88/.297/.362/.506/34

8) Jose Ramirez CLE, 3B, 28.6 – Increased launch angle every single year of his 6 year career which led to Ramirez crushing 17 homers in 58 games with a 23.2 degree launch angle. The power gains wouldn’t have been possible without the 2.3 MPH jump in FB/LD exit velocity, now sitting at a respectable 94.1 MPH. 2021 Projection: 105/35/103/.276/.370/.557/23

9) Christian Yelich MIL, OF, 29.4 – Strikeout rate spiked to a career high 30.8%, partly because he became a more patient hitter (career high 18.6% BB%), but also because he simply swung and missed at a career worst rate (33.6% Whiff%). Whiff% was elevated in 2019 as well (28.2% after sitting around 23% the rest of his career), so this looks to be a trend. 2021 Projection: 107/33/99/.282/.383/.546/16

10) Trevor Story COL, SS, 28.4 – Free agent after the 2021 season, meaning Story’s value could take a big hit if he doesn’t re-sign with Colorado. Of course, maybe he can DJ LeMahieu it. 2021 Projection: 107/35/92/.281/.350/.541/25

11) Bryce Harper PHI, OF, 28.6 – Career bests in K%, BB%, exit velocity, and launch angle, all while stealing 8 bags in 58 games. Unlucky .268 BA (.307 xBA) kept Harper’s overall value from absolutely exploding. 2021 Projection: 106/38/104/.270/.397/.535/16

12) Francisco Lindor CLE, SS, 27.4 – Underwhelming season, and while there is nothing really setting off alarm bells in the underlying numbers, he did notch a career worst 20.4% whiff% along with a career worst 4.42 runtime to 1st. Don’t go panic selling, but it might be enough to knock Lindor out of that very elite tier. 2021 Projection: 98/30/88/.272/.341/.497/17

13) Shane Bieber CLE, RHP, 25.10 – Turned his fastball into a dominant pitch, upping the velocity 1 MPH to 94.1 MPH and spin rate 100 revolutions to 2354 revolutions per minute. It led to a 12% increase in whiff rate on the pitch. 2020 erased any doubt that Bieber is a true ace. 2021 Projection: 16/3.03/1.06/259 in 202 IP

14) Wander Franco TB, SS, 20.1 – I’m no prospect hoarder. I don’t do never ending rebuilds. I took over a perennial doormat in an 18 team league I joined last off-season and dealt off Nick Madrigal, Ian Anderson, Luis Patino, Casey Mize, DL Hall, Luis Garcia, the draft pick that turned into Jasson Dominguez, and multiple other draft picks in what led to a 2nd place finish and 2 more years of a championship compete window. “You play to win the game.” I say all this because Wander Franco is the exception to that rule. He is the type of generational prospect you stay patient with. Franco’s career 7% K% makes Vlad Jr look like a strikeout machine with a 12% mark over that same time period playing at the same levels. He’s next level special, and the floor is so high due to that innate hitting ability that he doesn’t have the normal risks associated with prospects. 2021 Projection: May-74/18/71/.276/.337/.435/8 Prime Projection: 111/32/109/.311/.494/.564/14

15) Bo Bichette TOR, SS, 23.1 – Wasn’t the same after returning from a grade 1 sprain of the LCL in his right knee, slashing .361/.391/.672 in 14 games before the injury and .242/.266/.355 in 15 games after the injury. Even with the injury, he made incremental improvements in Whiff% (down 2.9% to 21.6%), FB/LD exit velocity (up 1.8 MPH to 94.7), and launch angle (up 1.6 degress to 12). 2021 Projection: 95/25/86/.285/.338/.483/17

16) Jacob deGrom NYM, RHP, 32.9 – Increased velocity for the 4th year in a row to a now incredible 99 MPH. It resulted in a career high 41% whiff% (up from 31.5% in 2019). deGrom inexplicably keeps getting better. 2021 Projection: 14/2.81/0.98/267 in 199 IP

17) Manny Machado SD, 3B, 28.9 – Complete bounce back from a down 2019. K% dropped back down to 14.6%, barrel% jumped back up to 11%, and even stolen bases ticked back up with 6 steals in 60 games . 2021 Projection: 93/34/102/.284/.360/.538/9

18) Gerrit Cole NYY, RHP, 30.7 – Homers were up (career high 1.73 HR/9) and got hit harder (exit velocity up 2.8 MPH to 90.4), but considering the small sample and strong overall numbers (2.84 ERA), I wouldn’t read too much into it. 2021 Projection: 16/3.18/1.08/265 in 198 IP

19) Alex Bregman HOU, 3B, 27.0 – It would be easy to point to the lack of cheating as the reason for Bregman’s down year, but the underlying numbers don’t really back that up. The biggest culprits seems to be luck (.254 BABIP) and his weak FB/LD exit velocity finally catching to him with only 6 homers in 42 games on the back of a meager 90.3 MPH FB/LD exit velocity. 2021 Projection: 101/29/96/.281/.395/.519/6

20) Xander Bogaerts BOS, SS, 28.6 – Perfect 8 for 8 on the base paths in 56 games is nice to see after he stole only 4 in 155 games last year. If he can maintain anything close to that pace, Bogaerts has the upside to be a top 5 fantasy player. 2021 Projection: 92/25/87/.289/.360/.505/10

21) Kyle Tucker HOU, OF, 23.4 – 20.2% K% in his first extended MLB action is extremely encouraging considering the strong underlying Statcast numbers (91.1 MPH exit velocity with a 14.9 degree launch) and baserunning ability (8 steals in 58 games). Tucker is a near elite dynasty asset. 2021 Projection: 87/28/91/.270/.335/.503/16

22) Ozzie Albies ATL, 2B, 24.3 – Missed over a month with a wrist injury, but ripped it up after his return, slashing .338/.372/.581 with 5 homers and 3 steals in 18 games. He performed well in 52 post season PA too (.277/.327/.447), putting to bed any concerns about his slow start and injury. 2021 Projection: 94/25/85/.283/.341/.479/15

23) Corey Seager LAD, SS, 26.11 – Here is what I tweeted about Seager before the season (and echoed these same sentiments in my 2020 Top 1,000): “Look out for a Corey Seager power breakout: Another year removed from Tommy John & hip surgery, raised launch angle to a career high 14.1 degrees, and turns 26 in April, meaning he is entering his “man muscle” years. Good buy low in dynasty and a discount at 148 ADP in redraft.” … A power breakout is exactly what happened, as Seager’s exit velocity exploded to 93.2 MPH and he cranked 23 homers in 70 games including the playoffs.  2021 Projection: 92/30/99/.298/.361/.537/3

24) Vlad Guerrero Jr. TOR, 1B, 22.0 – Lost over 30 pounds one month after the season ended and claimed he fell out of shape during the Covid shutdown. The major breakout didn’t happen in 2020, but power did take a step forward with a 3.1 MPH jump in exit velocity to 92.5 MPH. His speed can be measured with a sundial (as my high school coach used to love to yell at me) with a 25.3 ft/sec sprint speed, but after losing the weight this off-season, maybe he can start to turn some more of those groundballs into hits. 2021 Projection: 87/28/92/.286/.361/.501/2

25) Rafael Devers BOS, 3B, 24.5 – Strikeout rate ballooned to a career worst 27% which lead to a .263 BA, but he continued to absolutely demolish the ball with a career high 93 MPH exit velocity. Sprint speed dropping to a below average 26.5 ft/sec is not a good sign for his future stolen base totals. 2021 Projection: 91/32/100/.291/.338/.513/5

26) Walker Buehler LAD, RHP, 26.8 – Got off to a slow start and missed some time with a blister, but Buehler was back to his dominant self by the time the playoffs rolled around, putting up a 1.80 ERA with 39 strikeouts in 25 postseason innings. He had a 5.22 ERA in his first 6 starts of 2019 as well, so I wouldn’t sweat the slow start to this season either.  2021 Projection: 14/3.36/1.10/207 in 180 IP

27) Eloy Jimenez CHW, OF, 24.4 – Incremental improvements in K% (26.6% to 24.8%) and exit velocity (91.2 MPH to 92.4 MPH) further cements Eloy as one of the top young power hitters in the game. Improvements in plate discipline (5.3% BB%) and GB% (51.9%) will unlock his full potential. 2021 Projection: 86/35/100/.278/.331/.541/1

28) Tim Anderson CHW, SS, 27.9 – Followed up 2019 breakout by maintaining all of the gains he made along with taking another step in the power department, adding 3 MPH to his FB/LD exit velocity (93.7 MPH). 2021 Projection:  95/22/71/.290/.333/.462/19

29) Adalberto Mondesi KC, SS, 25.8 – After putting up a .440 OPS in the first 37 games, he came back from the dead in the 2nd half, slashing .376/.424/.706 with 6 homers and 16 steals in 22 games. He was coming off major labrum surgery over the off-season, so it’s not a surprise it took him a little bit to shake the rust off. Mondesi might be the most divisive player in the fantasy community right now. 2021 Projection: 83/19/74/.253/.296/.432/48

30) Luis Robert CHW, OF, 23.8 – The wheels fell off in September, posting a .136/.237/.173 triple-slash. Overall, Robert was who we thought he was, an elite power/speed combo (11 homers and 9 steals in 56 games) with contact issues (41.6% whiff%). 2021 Projection: 85/26/84/.250/.321/.468/23

31) Freddie Freeman ATL, 1B, 31.7 – Getting bit by the Covid bug must have given Freeman superpowers because he put up career bests is almost every underlying and surface stat there is. It would take too long to list them all.  2021 Projection: 105/35/109/.303/.404/.560/5

32) Aaron Nola PHI, RHP, 27.10 – Strikeout rate jumped to a career high 33.2% and brought BB% back down to 8% (spiked to 9.4% in 2019). The strong season erased any concerns after the slightly down 2019. 2021 Projection: 14/3.49/1.17/222 in 195 IP

33) Austin Meadows TB, OF, 25.11 – After being my greatest hit in 2019, Meadows turned into my biggest miss in 2020. Strikeout rate jumped to 32.9% and sprint speed tanked to 26.5 ft/sec, which are both completely out of character for his entire professional career. This leads me to believe that his struggles were largely due to catching Covid in July and never getting on track. Buy low. 2021 Projection: 87/26/83/.273/.346/.477/12

34) Yordan Alvarez HOU, OF, 23.9 – Underwent arthroscopic knee surgery on both knees in late August. Expected to be ready to go for the start of 2021. He’s one of the most talented young hitters in the game, so the risk is still worth the reward, but the fear of chronic knee issues has to knock him down a bit. 2021 Projection: 82/31/95/.272/.361/.546/1

35) Nolan Arenado COL, 3B, 30.0 – Season was tanked by a shoulder injury that he suffered on July 29th. Was shut down in September when an MRI revealed inflammation in the AC joint and a bone bruise. Arenado battled a shoulder injury in 2018 as well, so this seems to be a recurring issue. 2021 Projection: 93/35/106/.288/.363/.552/2

36) Anthony Rendon LAA, 3B, 30.10 – Played through a left wrist injury, and while he couldn’t match his elite 2019 career year, he got back to doing Yeoman’s work with a .286/.418/.497 triple-slash, 9 homers, and a 31/38 K/BB in 52 games. 2021 Projection: 91/30/102/.290/.388/.533/3

37) Trevor Bauer FA, RHP, 30.2 – Drastically increased the spin rate on every one of his pitches (other than his changeup which he basically ditched) which resulted in a career high 36% K% and career low 6.1% BB%.  2021 Projection: 14/3.40/1.17/239 in 191 IP

38) Lucas Giolito CHW, RHP, 26.9 – Backed up 2019 breakout with an equally impressive 2020, relying mostly on his dominant fastball/changeup combo. 2021 Projection: 13/3.54/1.18/227 in 180 IP

39) Yoan Moncada CHW, 3B, 25.10 – Never fully recovered from Covid and was dealing with a lack of energy and strength all season. I’m no virologist, so I have no idea what the chances are these issues will last until 2021, but I’m going to assume a return to full health. 2021 Projection: 89/26/85/.263/.344/.475/10

40) Jack Flaherty STL, RHP, 25.6 – The Cardinals Covid outbreak made an already tough season even tougher for Cardinals players, and Flaherty was never really able to get on track with a 4.91 ERA in 40.1 IP. One thing to keep an eye on is that Flaherty’s BABIP normalized this season (.281) after sitting abnormally low the past 2 seasons. 2021 Projection: 12/3.62/1.20/214 in 184 IP

41) George Springer FA, OF, 31.6 – Put up a career best 35.9% GB% (44.6% in 2019) while also improving his K% to a career best 17.1%. It led to 14 homers in 51 games (plus 4 homers in 13 playoff games). Combined with a career year in 2019, Springer is establishing himself as a near elite hitter.  2021 Projection: 99/34/91/.272/.363/.530/6

42) Gleyber Torres NYY, SS, 24.4 – Mediocre numbers on the season (.724 OPS), but this is a pretty clear case of one extended slump tanking your numbers due to the shortened season. If there was any question, he put up a 246 wRC+ in 30 postseason at-bats. 2021 Projection: 92/30/92/.275/.357/.504/4

43) Yu Darvish CHC, RHP, 34.7 – Improved control from the 2nd half of 2019 carried over to 2020 with a career best 4.7% BB%. Also notched a career high 96.2 MPH four seamer velocity. It all resulted in Darvish moving into the very elite tier of pitchers. 2021 Projection: 15/3.27/1.09/223 in 175 IP

44) Luis Castillo CIN, RHP, 28.4 – Made incremental improvements in K% (30.5%), BB% (8.2%), exit velocity against (86 MPH), and launch angle against (2.2 degrees). 2021 Projection: 13/3.56/1.21/222 in 185 IP

45) Blake Snell TB, LHP, 28.4 – Didn’t pitch more than 5.2 innings in any of his 17 starts, culminating in the now infamous decision to pull him after a dominant 5.1 innings in Game 6 of the World Series. Biggest concern is his elbow, which required arthroscopic surgery in 2019 and a cortisone shot in Feb 2020. 2021 Projection: 12/3.48/1.24/221 in 170 IP

46) Aaron Judge NYY, OF, 28.11 – Battled through a stress fracture in his right rib, a right shoulder injury and a right calf strain which limited him to 28 games. The injuries resulted in a 3.8 MPH drop in exit velocity. He has power to spare, but he has to be on the field to take advantage of it. 2021 Projection: 89/34/86/.263/.361/.541/4

47) Pete Alonso NYM, 1B, 26.4 – Ripped 10 dingers in September to close out the season after underwhelming in the first half. Alonso is your classic low average slugger. 2021 Projection: 88/40/103/.249/.342/.531/1

48) Brandon Woodruff MIL, RHP, 28.2 – Fastball was just as dominant in 2020 as it was in 2019, ranking 2nd in baseball behind only Marco Gonzalez. Changeup, curve, and slider all took a step forward as well. 2021 Projection: 13/3.51/1.15/205 in 170 IP

49) Zac Gallen ARI, RHP, 25.8 – Built on his 2019 breakout in 2020. BB% dropped down to 8.6%, which is nice to see after the 10.8% mark he put up in 2019 was the biggest cause for concern coming into the year. 2021 Projection: 12/3.61/1.25/202 in 170 IP

50) Tyler Glasnow TB, RHP, 27.7 – K% exploded to 38.2%. Gave back some of the gains he made in BB% in 2019 (up 3.1% to 9.2%) and got hit up for a career worst 90.4 MPH exit velocity, but most of the underlying stats show the 4.08 ERA was unlucky (3.11 xERA and 2.75 xFIP). 2021 Projection: 11/3.48/1.20/205 in 159 IP

By Michael Halpern (@MichaelCHalpern)
Email: michaelhalpern@imaginarybrickwall.com
Twitter: Imaginary Brick Wall (@DynastyHalp)

Posted on by Michael Halpern

A Top 100 Sneak Peek of the 2020 Top 1,000 Dynasty Baseball Rankings

The 2020 Top 1,000 Dynasty Baseball Rankings Sneak Peek Series continues with the Top 100:

1) Ronald Acuna ATL, OF, 22.3 – Combination of age and stolen base upside is what separates Acuna from the pack, but a 26.3% K% presents a risk that other candidates for the top spot don’t have. In anything other than a 5×5 league (points, OBP), I would look elsewhere with the top pick. 2020 Projection: 111/37/98/.285/.367/.524/31

2) Mike Trout LAA, OF, 28.8 – Turning 29 during the 2020 season, career low 13 steal attempts, and a much younger crop of generational talent establishing themselves in 2019 are why Trout is no longer the obvious #1 pick in dynasty. I still have him #1 in redrafts. 2020 Projection: 113/46/107/.299/.442/.631/15

3) Juan Soto WASH, OF, 21.5 – Flipped hitting profile from rookie season, upping FB% to 37.2% (from 28.8%) and lowering GB% to 41.6% (from 53.7%). 97 MPH FB/LD exit velocity is 2.1 MPH higher than Trout and 1.4 MPH higher than Acuna. Soto is my #1 pick in non 5×5 dynasty leagues. 2020 Projection: 108/36/105/.296/.404/.553/10

4) Cody Bellinger LAD, 1B/OF, 24.9 – Career bests in BB% (14.4%), K% (16.4%), average exit velocity (90.7 MPH), and launch angle (17.6 degree launch). On the flip side, OPS declined every month of the season (1.397, .998, .967, .952, .918, .891, playoffs-.549). 2020 Projection: 110/43/110/.288/.383/.598/14

5) Christian Yelich MIL, OF, 28.4 – Here is what I wrote about Yelich in my 2019 Top 1,000: “… posted the lowest GB% of his career by a good margin in August and September (46% and 44%, respectively). If he can carry those gains over a full season, the power breakout may not be a complete outlier.” That is exactly what happened, with Yelich posting a 43.2% GB% and hitting a career high 44 homers. The fractured knee cap that ended his season supposedly won’t have any long term effects. 2020 Projection: 111/37/104/.309/.410/.605/20

6) Mookie Betts BOS, OF, 27.6 – As a Yankees fan, I pray to the baseball gods every night that Boston trades Mookie Betts for “can’t miss” pitching prospects. 2020 Projection: 119/33/86/.310/.402/.552/22

7) Trea Turner WASH, SS, 26.9 – Power took a big step forward, raising average exit velocity 2.5 MPH to 90.3 MPH. Remains a speedster with the 2nd fastest sprint speed in baseball, behind only Tim Locastro (Buxton is a close 3rd).  2020 Projection: 104/24/77/.293/.350/.488/41

8) Fernando Tatis Jr. SD, SS, 21.3 – With a 29.6% K% and a 6.9 degree launch angle, you can look at Tatis’ 2019 in one of two ways. Either you think he got lucky and there is serious regression coming, or you are scared at the thought of what his stats might look like when he inevitably improves on those underlying numbers. I’m in camp #2. 2020 Projection: 101/35/99/.274/.348/.531/26

9) Francisco Lindor CLE, SS, 26.4 – Small step back in K%, BB%, GB% and sprint speed, but I’m willing to write that off to his early season calf injury considering overall production remained strong. 2020 Projection: 104/32/87/.285/.349/.520/20

10) Trevor Story COL, SS, 27.4 – Carried over the major improvements he made in K% and stolen bases in 2018 into 2019. One of the premier power/speed combos in the game. 2020 Projection: 100/36/100/.283/.354/.546/22

11) Wander Franco TB, SS, 19.1 – Acuna and Soto might be old news in 2 years if Franco reaches his upside of plus to double plus all category production. He very well may be the true heir to Trout’s throne. 2020 Projection: September-13/4/9/.277/.341/.445/4 Prime Projection: 114/32/113/.316/.405/.595/19

12) Vladimir Guerrero Jr. TOR, 3B, 21.0 – Modest rookie season, but make no mistake, the thunder is coming. 2020 Projection: 95/32/106/.298/.373/.538/2

13) Rafael Devers BOS, 3B, 23.5 – Ranked 16th overall in average exit velocity (92.1 MPH) and cut K% by 7.7% to 17%. 2020 Projection: 98/33/104/.302/.360/.549/7

14) Alex Bregman HOU, 3B, 26.0 – Gets dinged in the rankings because of the possibility of a suspension and the unknown of how much cheating improved his stats. Relatively low 92.3 MPH FB/LD exit velocity is another red flag. 2020 Projection: 103/30/101/.291/.403/.538/9

15) Jose Ramirez CLE, 3B, 27.6 – Armageddon 1st half (.218/.308/.344) followed by a beastly 2nd half (.327/.365/.739) that was interrupted and ultimately cut short by a fractured hamate bone. Like Bregman, low FB/LD exit velocity (91.8 MPH) indicates some power downside. 2020 Projection: 98/30/93/.279/.358/.518/25

16) Nolan Arenado COL, 3B, 29.0 – Steady as they come. 40 homers with a high average. 2020 Projection: 103/39/116/.298/.375/.568/2

17) Austin Meadows TB, OF, 24.11 – When I ranked Meadows 54th overall in last year’s ranking, someone asked me what I was smoking. Apparently I was toking on salvia divinorum, aka, sage of the diviners, aka it’s a plant you smoke and then you hallucinate, because Meadows broke out with a .291 BA, 33 homers, and 12 steals. He hits it very hard, hits it in the air, has speed, and has a strong plate approach. 2020 Projection: 93/32/96/.282/.351/.531/15

18) Bryce Harper PHI, OF, 27.6 – Strikeout rate going in the wrong direction (26.1%), but power, speed, and walks are all in peak form. 2020 Projection: 100/36/103/.265/.381/.533/14

19) Yordan Alvarez HOU, OF, 22.9 – Hitting profile looks mighty similar to Bryce Harper without the speed. 2020 Projection: 93/35/104/.273/.369/.542/4

20) Aaron Judge NYY, OF, 27.11 – Led the league in average exit velocity every year since getting called up in 2016. Smashed 15 homers in final 33 games to salvage what was shaping up to be a mediocre season. 2020 Projection: 107/42/101/.263/.370/.545/7

21) Bo Bichette TOR, SS, 22.1 – Like Tatis, the impressive triple slash (.311/..358/.571) is considerably better than the underlying numbers, but I’m betting on the underlying numbers mostly catching up to the slash line, rather than the other way around. 2020 Projection: 93/24/79/.282/.340/.481/18 Prime Projection: 118/34/95/.296/.373/.542/15

22) Ozzie Albies ATL, 2B, 23.3 – Average exit velocity jumped 2.5 MPH to 88.8 MPH, although exit velocity on fly balls actually decreased by 0.3 MPH. It’s still a good sign that there is another level of power in here as he matures. 2020 Projection: 107/26/84/.288/.356/.490/17

23) Gerrit Cole NYY, RHP, 29.7 – I don’t factor in age with pitchers quite as much as with hitters because every pitcher is one injury away from a career altering injury. Young pitchers also haven’t proven their arm can withstand season after season of 200+ innings which makes them more risky than an older pitcher with more miles on their arm. 2020 Projection: 18/2.92/0.98/295 in 205 IP

24) Walker Buehler LAD, RHP, 25.8 – Throws the fastest cutter by a starter at 92.8 MPH (1.8 MPH ahead of 2nd, Marcus Stroman). Final hurdle to cross is how his arm responds after a career high 195 IP (including the postseason), which is a 34 IP increase from 2018. 2020 Projection: 17/3.23/1.01/230 in 191 IP

25) Jacob deGrom NYM, RHP, 31.9 – Career high velocity on all of his pitches. Upped slider and fastball usage while ditching his sinker and minimizing the curve. 2020 Projection: 14/2.86/0.99/260 in 208 IP

26) Gleyber Torres NYY, 2B, 23.4 – Exit velocities and K/BB are solid but don’t jump out at you. 17.4 degree launch angle ensures healthy power production, and I’m expecting continued improvement in all aspects of his game. 2020 Projection: 97/32/106/.283/.352/.521/4

27) Xander Bogaerts BOS, SS, 27.6 – Maintained exit velocity gains from 2018 and notched a career high 10.9% BB%. With only 6 steal attempts in 155 games, you can no longer count on him in the speed department as you build your roster. 2020 Projection: 99/28/108/.296/.369/.529/7

28) Javier Baez CHC, SS, 27.4 – Getting by with pure exit velocity and speed. 2020 Projection: 98/33/103/.278/.319/.520/13

29) Anthony Rendon LAA, 3B, 29.10 – From my 2019 Top 1,000: “With a 13.7% K% and 17.7 degree launch angle, there is potential for a monster career season lurking in here.” … The monster was unleashed and it landed him a $245 million contract. 2020 Projection: 104/32/108/.306/.382/.560/4

30) Keston Hiura MIL, 2B, 23.8 – Underlying stats profile as a low average, power hitting beast with a handful of steals. Ultimately should develop into more of a 20% strikeout hitter than the 30% he put up in 2019. 2020 Projection: 88/34/96/.268/.333/.507/11

31) Jack Flaherty STL, RHP, 24.6 – Velocity up about 1 MPH on every pitch and BB% was down 2.5%. Third year in a row posting well below average exit velocities against (86.1 MPH) gives hope the low BABIP’s (.242) is a skill. 2020 Projection: 16/3.38/1.11/229 in 194 IP

32) Shane Bieber CLE, RHP, 24.10 – Not a flamethrower but has advanced command over a 4 pitch mix. Batters were able to make some good contact against him with a 90.4 MPH average exit velocity against. Cole and Verlander both sat at 87.3 MPH for comparison. 2020 Projection: 15/3.41/1.09/220 in 195 IP

33) Yoan Moncada CHW, 3B, 24.10 – Not quite the speedster we all thought he was, but power showed up in a big way, upping exit velocity 2.3 MPH to 92.8 MPH. .315 batting average (.406 BABIP) is coming down. 2020 Projection: 96/30/89/.273/.360/.513/13

34) Pete Alonso NYM, 1B, 25.4 – Alonso is going to mash no matter how much Manfred loosens up those seams. 2020 Projection: 91/43/109/.263/.360/.557/1

35) Manny Machado SD, 3B/SS, 27.9 – Career worst 19.4% K% and low BABIP led to a career low .254 BA. The lack of steals was easy to predict, but now you have to worry about a mediocre average too. 2020 Projection: 92/34/102/.278/.351/.515/8

36) Eloy Jimenez CHW, OF, 23.4 – Elite exit velocity and 31 homers in 122 games proves the power wasn’t over-hyped. Has the ability to hit for both power and average when his K% comes down, and his minor league numbers suggest it will. 2020 Projection: 88/33/99/.283/.335/.530/1

37) Luis Robert CHW, OF, 22.8 – Sox have mentioned they view Robert like Eloy and we should expect an early season call up. He’s still raw at the plate, but has a power/speed combo that rivals Acuna.  2020 Projection: 63/26/68/.259/.308/.471/18 Prime Projection: 94/34/101/.277/.339/.521/25

38) Freddie Freeman ATL, 1B, 30.7 – Underlying numbers are very similar to his past two seasons when he put up 28 and 23 homers, respectively, but this season he managed to knock 38 homers. For reference, he hit 34 homers in 2016, but his exit velocity was about 2 MPH higher than 2017-2019. Freeman might be the clearest example of the impact of the juiced ball. 2020 Projection: 95/31/105/.298/.391/.543/5

39) Blake Snell TB, LHP, 27.4 – Missed two months after undergoing arthroscopic elbow surgery in July to remove loose bodies. Velocity was down on all of his pitches, but still among the hardest throwers in baseball. Bloated 4.29 ERA was at least partly due to a .343 BABIP. 2020 Projection: 13/3.37/1.18/223 in 178 IP

40) Ketel Marte ARI, 2B/OF, 26.6 – From my 2019 Top 1,000: “13.7% K%, 9.3% BB%, 88.6 MPH average exit velocity, 92 MPH on FB/LD, and 28.7 ft/sec sprint speed. If he can start lifting the ball more and add some strength as he enters his mid to late 20’s, there is a 5-category stud lurking in here.” … Marte added 1.3 MPH to his exit velocity and 5.8 degrees to his launch angle en route to a beastly 5-category season. 2020 Projection: 93/26/88/.293/.352/.512/9

41) Carlos Correa HOU, SS, 25.6 – In the midst of a power breakout but rib and back injuries limited him to only 25 games after May. A back injury tanked his 2018 season as well, so it’s a legitimate concern. 2020 Projection: 90/32/105/.283/.362/.527/3

42) Adalberto Mondesi KC, SS, 24.8 – Underwent labrum surgery on October 3rd, with a 5-6 month recovery. Major surgeries that ruin your normal off-season routine is not a recipe for a breakout season. 2020 Projection: 78/16/74/.255/.299/.422/41 Prime Projection: 93/23/86/.274/.329/.446/49

43) Shohei Ohtani LAA, RHP/OF, 25.9 – Power and strikeouts … and strikeouts. The plan is for 1 start and 3-4 DH days per week. In weekly lineup leagues drop him down 100 spots because he can likely be viewed only as a 130 IP starter at peak. 2020 Projection: Hitting-46/17/52/.277/.349/.511/9 — Pitching-7/3.55/1.20/123 in 100 IP

44) Kris Bryant CHC, 3B/OF, 28.3 – Exit velocity is just not what it was in 2015 and 2016 when Bryant looked to be on the verge of becoming a perennial top 5 pick. I guess we’ll have to settle for merely very, very good. 2020 Projection: 110/32/80/.283/.381/.509/5

45) Matt Chapman OAK, 3B, 26.11 – Career low 21.9% K%, but a 3.6% jump in infield fly ball rate negated any possible batting average gains (.249 BA with a .270 BABIP). 2020 Projection: 105/38/96/.268/.355/.529/2

46) Mike Clevinger CLE, RHP, 29.3 – Upper back strain and sprained ankle caused Clevinger to miss almost the entire first half. Notched a career high 95.6 MPH fastball velocity, but that was on a steady decline as the season wore on. 2020 Projection: 15/3.31/1.14/222 in 190 IP

47) Stephen Strasburg WASH, RHP, 31.8 – Dominant, as usual, but he did it in a different way by upping his groundball percentage with increased sinker and curveball usage. Staying healthy all season is probably the most notable thing of all. 2020 Projection: 15/3.43/1.10/220 in 185 IP

48) Jo Adell LAA, OF, 21.0 – Elite athlete with double plus power. 32.6% K% and 0 homers in 27 games at Triple-A likely ensures at least a couple months of development time there in 2020. 2020 Projection: July-39/13/45/.250/.301/.459/6 Prime Projection: 101/37/108/.271/.353/.538/13

49) Justin Verlander HOU, RHP, 37.1 – Even at 37 years old Verlander is such a difference maker that he is worth a true elite prospect back in a trade. The cliff often doesn’t come with advanced warning, though, that is why they call it the cliff, and not the ramp.  2020 Projection: 17/3.08/1.01/270 in 208 IP

50) Max Scherzer WASH, RHP, 35.8 – Back issues held Scherzer to his lowest innings pitched total since his rookie year in 2009. He also didn’t pitch as well when he returned from the injury (4.81 ERA in 43 IP). 2020 Projection: 16/3.09/1.04/261 in 203 IP

51) Jose Altuve HOU, 2B, 29.11 – Career high K% (15%), career low stolen base total (6), and while Altuve hit a career high 31 homers, there wasn’t any significant improvements in exit velocity or flyball percentage to truly back up the power surge. 2020 Projection: 99/26/82/.292/.351/.490/13

52) JD Martinez BOS, OF, 32.7 – Best case scenario he’s Nelson Cruz and there is 7+ years of production left. Worst case scenario he’s Albert Pujols and this 32 year old season is the beginning of the end. 2020 Projection: 101/38/112/.308/.380/.570/3

53) Chris Paddack SD, RHP, 24.3 – Plus fastball/changeup combo is good enough, but continued development of the curveball can take him to the next level. 2020 Projection: 13/3.58/1.09/190 in 170 IP

54) Starling Marte PIT, OF, 31.6 – Career low 16% K%. Sprint speed is as good as ever but relying on speed as players get deeper into their 30’s is risky. 2020 Projection: 94/20/77/.289/.339/.462/28

55) Kyle Tucker HOU, OF, 22.4 – Sprint speed improved from below average in 2018 to above average in 2019. The power was never in question, but now there is hope the steals might transfer too. 2020 Projection: 71/24/77/.251/.325/.476/11 Prime Projection: 94/33/101/.265/.348/.513/15

56) Victor Robles WASH, OF, 22.10 – 81 MPH average exit velocity is cover your eyes bad. Even Stephen Strasburg managed to put up a 82.5. Jose Altuve has proven there is a path to strong power numbers with below average exit velocity (86.1 MPH), but Robles has to improve to reach even that level. 2020 Projection: 91/20/73/.272/.334/.439/27

57) George Springer HOU, OF, 30.6 – While his 2019 is likely a juiced ball aided career year, the strong underlying numbers don’t rule out the possibility of a repeat. 2020 Projection: 104/33/95/.280/.369/.525/7

58) Matt Olson OAK, 1B, 26.0 – Elite exit velocity power hitting beast. 2020 Projection: 93/38/105/.256/.345/.537/1

59) Giancarlo Stanton NYY, OF, 30.5 – Limited to 18 games due to a variety of injuries, but performed like himself in those games with a 100.3 MPH FB/LD exit velocity. 2020 Projection: 95/43/109/.261/.352/.546/3

60) Josh Bell PIT, 1B, 27.8 – Career high 37.3% FB% and 92.3 MPH exit velocity is evidence the power breakout is for real. 2020 Projection: 90/32/106/.273/.361/.528/1

61) Ramon Laureano OAK, OF, 25.9 – Plus power/speed combo but a 25.6% K% and 5.6% BB% shows he is not without risk. 2020 Projection: 89/27/84/.265/.334/.486/16

62) Tim Anderson CHW, SS, 26.9 – Career low 21% K% and career high 88.3 MPH exit velocity, along with a little BABIP luck, led to a breakout season, slashing .335/.357/.508 with 18 homers and 17 steals in 123 games. 2020 Projection: 90/23/72/.282/.321/.468/21

63) Patrick Corbin WASH, LHP, 30.8 – Backed up 2018’s breakout with another strong year on the back of his elite slider. Velocity up about 1 MPH on each pitch. 2020 Projection: 14/3.50/1.19/231 in 197 IP

64) Luis Severino NYY, RHP, 26.1 – Missed almost entire season with an inflamed rotator cuff and lat strain. Velocity wasn’t quite what it was in 2018, but at 96.1 MPH, that is more than enough. 2020 Projection: 13/3.55/1.18/200 in 175 IP

65) Gavin Lux LAD, 2B/SS, 22.4 – Another guy I was high on last year, ranking him 181st overall and writing, “Me thinks Lux is still being a bit underrated right now.” He isn’t underrated anymore. 2020 Projection: July-42/11/39/.272/.334/.451/7 Prime Projection: 98/28/93/.283/.356/.495/14

66) Chris Sale BOS, LHP, 31.0 – Inflammation in pitching elbow ended Sale’s season in August. Fastball was down 2 MPH and put up a career worst 4.40 ERA, but he still managed to strikeout 218 batters in 147.1 IP. 2020 Projection: 13/3.29/1.02/234 in 165 IP

67) Julio Rodriguez SEA, OF, 19.3 – Advanced beyond his years feel to hit which he displayed at Full-A (.293 BA), High-A (.462 BA), and the Fall League (.288 BA). Add to that at least plus raw power and you have one of the most coveted prospects in baseball. ETA: Late 2021 Prime Projection: 96/35/109/.290/.368/.550/8

68) Charlie Blackmon COL, OF, 33.9 – Career low 26.7 ft/sec sprint speed doesn’t leave much hope for a stolen base bounce back (2 steals in 2019), but he has never hit the ball harder with a career high 88.5 MPH exit velocity. 2020 Projection: 106/33/84/.307/.362/.539/6

69) Luis Castillo CIN, RHP, 27.4 – Fireballing groundball pitcher with the most valuable changeup in baseball. 2020 Projection: 13/3.63/1.19/214 in 188 IP

70) Lucas Giolito CHW, RHP, 25.9 – Fastball velocity jumped 1.8 MPH to 94.6 MPH and changeup became an elite pitch. Grandal and his plus pitch framing should counteract any regression concerns. 2020 Projection: 13/3.69/1.17/226 in 185 IP

71) MacKenzie Gore SD, LHP, 21.1 – Potential for 4 plus pitches with plus control. Destroyed Hi-A with a silly pitching line of 1.02/0.71/110/20/ in 79.1 IP. 2020 Projection: July-6/3.82/1.26/83 in 78 IP Prime Projection: 17/3.22/1.03/240 in 200 IP

72) Anthony Rizzo CHC, 1B, 30.8 – As consistent as they come. 2020 Projection: 91/30/97/.288/.381/.513/5

73) Marcus Semien OAK, SS, 29.6 – Major breakout in basically every underlying stat and surface stat you look at. Some regression is likely, but the breakout was real. 2020 Projection: 107/29/76/.279/.360/.499/11

74) Eugenio Suarez CIN, 3B, 27.7 – Online IQ test question: What is the next number in this sequence – 4, 13, 21, 26, 34, 49, _? That is Suarez’ season home run totals since entering the league. My fake online IQ of 144 tells me Barry Bonds home run record might be in jeopardy next season. 2020 Projection: 84/32/98/.266/.352/.523/3

75) Joey Gallo TEX, OF, 26.4 – Has 281 hits in his career and 110 of them are homers. 38.4% K% still makes Gallo a huge average risk, but he also led the league in exit velocity on FB/LD at 101.2 MPH. 2020 Projection: 94/45/96/.234/.356/.549/4

76) Michael Conforto NYM, OF, 27.1 – Struggles vs. lefties is only true blemish (.701 OPS). 2020 Projection: 93/30/92/.263/.370/.502/5

77) Max Kepler MIN, OF, 27.2 – From my 2019 Top 1,000: “Posted career bests in K% (15.7%), BB% (11.6%), FB% (46.2%), and exit velo (89.5 MPH/93.9 MPH FB/LD). Kepler already broke out but it didn’t show up in his surface stats last year.” … It showed up this year, cranking 36 homers in 134 games while maintaining most of the underlying gains he made in 2018. 2020 Projection: 93/31/89/.266/.349/.502/3

78) Max Muncy LAD, 1B/2B/3B, 29.7 – Put any playing time concerns to rest with 589 PA, although the logjam isn’t breaking up anytime soon with Gavin Lux now trying to force his way into the lineup. 2020 Projection: 97/34/96/.254/.370/.513/3

79) Jorge Soler KC, OF, 28.1 – Huge power breakout, upping exit velocity 3.1 MPH and ripping 48 homers in 162 games. 2020 Projection: 85/33/98/.261/.350/.520/2

80) Eddie Rosario MIN, OF, 28.6 – Continued his free swinging ways (3.7% BB%) with power (32 homers) and a good feel to hit (14.6% K%). 2020 Projection: 84/28/92/.283/.316/.489/6

81) Jonathan Villar MIA, 2B/SS, 28.11 – Played in all 162 games, compiling 24 homers, 111 runs and 40 steals. Miami moving their fences in will cushion the blow a little bit from leaving Camden. 2020 Projection: 85/16/61/.263/.331/.430/34

82) Tyler Glasnow TB, RHP, 26.7 – Forearm strain knocked out most of Glasnow’s breakout season, but his velocity was fully back when he returned in September. His newfound control did not return, with 8 walks in 19.1 IP (including postseason). 2020 Projection: 10/3.58/1.19/185 in 150 IP

83) Aaron Nola PHI, RHP, 26.10 – Career best K/9 (10.19) and career worst BB/9 (3.56). Exit velocity against jumped to 88.5 MPH after being in the 85’s from 2016-2018. 2020 Projection: 14/3.66/1.21/221 in 205 IP

84) Rhys Hoskins PHI, 1B, 27.0 – Down-ish year when everyone else was experiencing a career year, but the homer/walk profile remains the same. 2020 Projection: 96/35/92/.250/.371/.512/3

85) Lourdes Gurriel Jr. TOR, OF, 26.6 – Took power to another level with 20 homers in 84 games by raising launch angle 3.7 degrees and increasing FB/LD exit velocity 3.2 MPH. 2020 Projection: 86/30/94/.270/.323/.492/8

86) Corey Seager LAD, SS, 25.11 – Career high 39.2% FB% didn’t result in a power breakout this season, but it portends good things for the future considering he was able to maintain strong exit velocity and plate approach numbers. 2020 Projection: 94/27/92/.281/.343/.496/1

87) Andrew Benintendi BOS, OF, 25.9 – 6.8% K% increase led to a down year across the board. Also has been getting slower every year. I feel more comfortable about a power rebound than I do a stolen base rebound. 2020 Projection: 93/21/86/.279/.357/.446/11

88) Nick Senzel CIN, OF, 24.8 – Underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in late September which puts his availability for opening day in question. Speed is his best asset right now, but still profiles as an above average all category contributor at peak. 2020 Projection: 74/16/66/.268/.333/.440/19 Prime Projection: 94/24/83/.278/.346/.462/23

89) Jarred Kelenic SEA, OF, 20.8 – Performed well across 3 levels of the minors in his first full season of pro ball, culminating with a 133 wRC+ at Double-A. Above average to plus potential in every category. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 96/25/87/.283/.351/.485/16

90) Clayton Kershaw LAD, LHP, 32.0 – Fastball velocity did not rebound to pre-2018 levels and actually lost another 0.9 MPH, but the slider is as good as ever. 2020 Projection: 14/3.38/1.09/188 in 180 IP

91) Noah Syndergaard NYM, RHP, 27.7 – Much improved changeup became his best secondary pitch but his slider took a step back, losing 2.2 MPH. 2020 Projection: 3.73/1.22/196 in 190 IP

92) Brandon Woodruff MIL, RHP, 27.2 – Third most valuable fastball in baseball behind only Cole and Flaherty. 2020 Projection: 11/3.74/1.20/190 in 165 IP

93) Jesus Luzardo OAK, LHP, 22.6 – Shoulder injury limited Luzardo to just 58 IP at a variety of levels (Rk, Hi-A, Triple-A, MLB playoffs), but he dominated at each stop with 3 plus pitches (mid 90’s fastball, curve, and change). He has a chance to be special, but with a career high of 109 IP, it remains to be seen if he can stay healthy and produce for 180+ IP. 2020 Projection: 10/3.68/1.19/160 in 142 IP Prime Projection: 15/3.39/1.11/213 in 183 IP

94) Julio Urias LAD, LHP, 23.8 – Announced that he will likely join the rotation in 2020. Ranked first overall in average exit velocity against at 83.2 MPH and fastball jumped 2.1 MPH to 95.2 MPH, including during the starts he made early in the season. 2020 Projection: 11/3.68/1.21/139 in 135 IP Prime Projection: 15/3.39/1.11/198 in 182 IP

95) Frankie Montas OAK, RHP, 27.0 – Found that legitimate third pitch by adding a splitter that he threw 18.2% of the time. With a plus fastball/slider combo already in tow, Montas broke out with a pitching line of 2.63/1.12/103/23 in 96 IP. 80-game PED suspension cut his season short, but he did return for 1 start in September with no noticeable performance decline. 2020 Projection: 13/3.64/1.21/185 in 170 IP

96) Gary Sanchez NYY, C, 27.4 – Elite power hitter and does it from the scarce catcher position. On the downside, catchers are always more banged up and at risk of shortened careers. It’s a give and take. 2020 Projection: 69/32/83/.252/.333/.520/0

97) Marcell Ozuna FA, OF, 29.5 – Low BABIP (.259) spoiled what could have been a huge season as Ozuna reached a career high 12 steals and 11.3% BB%. If he can repeat those gains in 2020, the upside is there for him to blow up. 2020 Projection: 82/31/93/.268/.332/.500/6

98) David Dahl COL, OF, 26.0 – Another season shortened by injury, this time by a high ankle sprain that ended his year in early August. .386 BABIP covered up a weak 110/28 K/BB in 100 games, but he displayed an above average power/speed combo and has the raw tools to take his game to the next level. 2020 Projection: 86/23/83/.271/.329/.480/9

99) Amed Rosario NYM, SS, 24.4 – Continues to get stronger, raising his exit velocity 1.9 MPH to a well above average 89.2 MPH, while maintaining his plus speed and good feel to hit. 91.2 MPH FB/LD exit velocity will have to improve in order to take the next step. 2020 Projection: 87/18/79/.283/.322/.446/22

100) Byron Buxton MIN, OF, 26.3 – In the midst of a mini breakout before a shoulder injury ended his season, which required labrum surgery in September with a 5-6 month timetable. The underlying skills (95 MPH FB/LD exit velo, 19.5 degree launch angle, and 30.3 foot per second sprint speed) are there to become a power/speed beast, even if it takes him into his late 20’s to truly put it all together. 2020 Projection: 83/23/76/.267/.321/.475/26

By Michael Halpern (@MichaelCHalpern)
Email: michaelhalpern@imaginarybrickwall.com
Twitter: Imaginary Brick Wall (@DynastyHalp)

Posted on by Michael Halpern

A Top 20 Sneak Peek of the 2020 Top 1,000 Dynasty Baseball Rankings

The 2020 Top 1,000 Dynasty Baseball Rankings will be finished in late January/early February. I’m going to drop some sneak peeks leading up to that, starting with the top 20:

1) Ronald Acuna ATL, OF, 22.3 – Combination of age and stolen base upside is what separates Acuna from the pack, but a 26.3% K% presents a risk that other candidates for the top spot don’t have. In anything other than a 5×5 league (points, OBP), I would look elsewhere with the top pick. 2020 Projection: 111/37/98/.285/.367/.524/31

2) Mike Trout LAA, OF, 28.8 – Turning 29 during the 2020 season, career low 13 steal attempts, and a much younger crop of generational talent establishing themselves in 2019 are why Trout is no longer the obvious #1 pick in dynasty. I still have him #1 in redrafts. 2020 Projection: 113/46/107/.299/.442/.631/15

3) Juan Soto WASH, OF, 21.5 – Flipped hitting profile from rookie season, upping FB% to 37.2% (from 28.8%) and lowering GB% to 41.6% (from 53.7%). 97 MPH FB/LD exit velocity is 2.1 MPH higher than Trout and 1.4 MPH higher than Acuna. Soto is my #1 pick in non 5×5 dynasty leagues. 2020 Projection: 108/36/105/.296/.404/.553/10

4) Cody Bellinger LAD, 1B/OF, 24.9 – Career bests in BB% (14.4%), K% (16.4%), average exit velocity (90.7 MPH), and launch angle (17.6 degree launch). On the flip side, OPS declined every month of the season (1.397, .998, .967, .952, .918, .891, playoffs-.549). 2020 Projection: 110/43/110/.288/.383/.598/14

5) Christian Yelich MIL, OF, 28.4 – Here is what I wrote about Yelich in my 2019 Top 1,000: “… posted the lowest GB% of his career by a good margin in August and September (46% and 44%, respectively). If he can carry those gains over a full season, the power breakout may not be a complete outlier.” That is exactly what happened, with Yelich posting a 43.2% GB% and hitting a career high 44 homers. The fractured knee cap that ended his season supposedly won’t have any long term effects. 2020 Projection: 111/37/104/.309/.410/.605/20

6) Mookie Betts BOS, OF, 27.6 – As a Yankees fan, I pray to the baseball gods every night that Boston trades Mookie Betts for “can’t miss” pitching prospects. 2020 Projection: 119/33/86/.310/.402/.552/22

7) Trea Turner WASH, SS, 26.9 – Power took a big step forward, raising average exit velocity 2.5 MPH to 90.3 MPH. Remains a speedster with the 2nd fastest sprint speed in baseball, behind only Tim Locastro (Buxton is a close 3rd).  2020 Projection: 104/24/77/.293/.350/.488/41

8) Fernando Tatis Jr. SD, SS, 21.3 – With a 29.6% K% and a 6.9 degree launch angle, you can look at Tatis’ 2019 in one of two ways. Either you think he got lucky and there is serious regression coming, or you are scared at the thought of what his stats might look like when he inevitably improves on those underlying numbers. I’m in camp #2. 2020 Projection: 101/35/99/.274/.348/.531/26

9) Francisco Lindor CLE, SS, 26.4 – Small step back in K%, BB%, GB% and sprint speed, but I’m willing to write that off to his early season calf injury considering overall production remained strong. 2020 Projection: 104/32/87/.285/.349/.520/20

10) Trevor Story COL, SS, 27.4 – Carried over the major improvements he made in K% and stolen bases in 2018 into 2019. One of the premier power/speed combos in the game. 2020 Projection: 100/36/100/.283/.354/.546/22

11) Wander Franco TB, SS, 19.1 – Acuna and Soto might be old news in 2 years if Franco reaches his upside of plus to double plus all category production. He very well may be the true heir to Trout’s throne. 2020 Projection: September-13/4/9/.277/.341/.445/4 Prime Projection: 114/32/113/.316/.405/.595/19

12) Vladimir Guerrero Jr. TOR, 3B, 21.0 – Modest rookie season, but make no mistake, the thunder is coming. 2020 Projection: 95/32/106/.298/.373/.538/2

13) Rafael Devers BOS, 3B, 23.5 – Ranked 16th overall in average exit velocity (92.1 MPH) and cut K% by 7.7% to 17%. 2020 Projection: 98/33/104/.302/.360/.549/7

14) Alex Bregman HOU, 3B, 26.0 – Gets dinged in the rankings because of the possibility of a suspension and the unknown of how much cheating improved his stats. Relatively low 92.3 MPH FB/LD exit velocity is another red flag. 2020 Projection: 103/30/101/.291/.403/.538/9

15) Jose Ramirez CLE, 3B, 27.6 – Armageddon 1st half (.218/.308/.344) followed by a beastly 2nd half (.327/.365/.739) that was interrupted and ultimately cut short by a fractured hamate bone. Like Bregman, low FB/LD exit velocity (91.8 MPH) indicates some power downside. 2020 Projection: 98/30/93/.279/.358/.518/25

16) Nolan Arenado COL, 3B, 29.0 – Steady as they come. 40 homers with a high average. 2020 Projection: 103/39/116/.298/.375/.568/2

17) Austin Meadows TB, OF, 24.11 – When I ranked Meadows 54th overall in last year’s ranking, someone asked me what I was smoking. Apparently I was toking on salvia divinorum, aka, sage of the diviners, aka it’s a plant you smoke and then you hallucinate, because Meadows broke out with a .291 BA, 33 homers, and 12 steals. He hits it very hard, hits it in the air, has speed, and has a strong plate approach. 2020 Projection: 93/32/96/.282/.351/.531/15

18) Bryce Harper PHI, OF, 27.6 – Strikeout rate going in the wrong direction (26.1%), but power, speed, and walks are all in peak form. 2020 Projection: 100/36/103/.265/.381/.533/14

19) Yordan Alvarez HOU, OF, 22.9 – Hitting profile looks mighty similar to Bryce Harper without the speed. 2020 Projection: 93/35/104/.273/.369/.542/4

20) Aaron Judge NYY, OF, 27.11 – Led the league in average exit velocity every year since getting called up in 2016. Smashed 15 homers in final 33 games to salvage what was shaping up to be a mediocre season. 2020 Projection: 107/42/101/.263/.370/.545/7

By Michael Halpern (@MichaelCHalpern)
Email: michaelhalpern@imaginarybrickwall.com
Twitter: Imaginary Brick Wall (@DynastyHalp)

Posted on by Michael Halpern

2019 Top 1,000 Dynasty Baseball Rankings (w/ short analysis, 2019 projections, and prime projections for every player)

When I embarked on this journey, I was planning on doing a top 600 dynasty ranking … and then I just kept going and going and going until I couldn’t not do a top 1000. Too many players deserved to be ranked! 16-team, deep roster, 5×5 category league is what I had in my mind during the process. There is a link below to a Top 472 Prospects Only Ranking if you are interested in that. Here is the 2019 Top 1000 Dynasty Baseball Rankings:

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Player Name TEAM, POSITION, AGE (Years.Months on 2019 Opening Day – Months are on a scale of 0-11 … I know it is not mathematically correct, but gimme a break, I was a History major)

Projections (Hitters): R/HR/RBI/AVG/OBP/SLG/Steals
(Pitchers): Wins/ERA/WHIP/K/Saves

Click here for the 2019 Top 472 Fantasy/Dynasty Baseball Prospects Ranking

*This list will be updated weekly throughout the off-season (Last Update: 3/1/2019)

1) Mike Trout LAA, OF, 27.8 – Don’t overthink it. 2019 Projection: 113/38/98/.307/.448/.605/21

2) Ronald Acuna ATL, OF, 21.3 – On second thought … maybe Acuna should be #1. You can’t teach youth. Unless anti-aging technology takes a huge step forward in the near future. Then maybe you can teach youth. 2019 Projection: 98/29/82/.275/.350/.503/25 Prime Projection: 115/38/100/.310/.425/.620/27

3) Mookie Betts BOS, OF, 26.6 – Average exit velocity on flyballs and line drives spiked to 95.9 MPH this year after sitting in the 92’s the past three seasons. The 30+ homerun power is for real this time. 2019 Projection: 114/31/90/.314/.398/.576/25

4) Francisco Lindor CLE, SS, 25.4 – Made $623,200 in total salary last season. Maybe MLB should start paying their best young players like stars if they want to successfully market them as stars. Update: Strained calf could keep Lindor out a couple weeks into the season. Dynasty value remains unchanged, but he takes a small hit in redraft leagues. 2019 Projection: 97/30/88/.288/.371/.533/17

5) Jose Ramirez CLE, 3B, 26.6 – Career low 33.4% groundball rate fueled Ramirez’ 2nd homerun breakout in back to back seasons. Poor second half and slightly below average exit velocity on FB/LD are only concerns. 2019 Projection: 107/32/91/.291/.371/.541/24

6) Alex Bregman HOU, 3B/SS, 25.0 – Off the field, Bregman is trying to drag MLB into the social media era with Twitter beefs, friendly cracks on opposing teams, and general online tomfoolery. On the field, he turned into an elite all category fantasy contributor, and there is nothing in the underlying numbers to think it wasn’t completely for real. 2019 Projection: 103/30/94/.294/.388/.528/14

7) Trea Turner WASH, SS, 25.9 – Put up 19 homers, 43 steals, and 103 runs in a disappointing season. 2019 Projection: 100/21/78/.282/.355/.461/47

8) Vladimir Guerrero Jr. TOR, 3B, 20.0 – Will dominate in every category but steals. ETA: Mid April 2019 Projection: 74/23/77/.294/.365/.502/5  Prime Projection: 110/43/125/.325/.420/.635/5

9) Christian Yelich MIL, OF, 27.4 – Unsustainable 35% HR/FB rate, but posted the lowest GB% of his career by a good margin in August and September (46% and 44%, respectively). If he can carry those gains over a full season, the power breakout may not be a complete outlier. 2019 Projection:107/26/94/.299/.375/.515/20

10) Manny Machado SD, SS, 26.9 – With a below average sprint speed and spotty stolen base track record, counting on steals as Machado ages could be a dicey proposition. 2019 Projection: 92/35/93/.288/.359/.524/9

11) Bryce Harper PHI, OF, 26.6 – Poor BABIP luck and 4% K% increase fueled his .249 average. With neutral luck and a K% more in line with his career average (21.1%), I doubt Harper hits for such a low batting average again. 2019 Projection: 97/36/101/.272/.403/.535/11

12) Juan Soto WASH, OF, 20.5 – Injury shortened 2017 kept Soto a little underrated coming into the year. Elite contact-power profile should only blossom further from here.  2019 Projection: 98/28/92/.286/.381/.508/7 Prime Projection: 110/34/110/.316/.424/.600/6

13) Trevor Story COL, SS, 26.4 – Owners who weren’t scared off by the classic Sophomore slump were rewarded with a monster season. There are still some plate approach issues but Story’s power/speed combo at Coors is scary. 2019 Projection: 90/34/103/.274/.341/.548/21

14) Nolan Arenado COL, 3B, 28.0 – Career worst 18.1% K% and battled a shoulder injury in 2018. On the plus side, the fear of Arenado leaving Coors is gone after signing a long term contract extension with Colorado this off-season. 2019 Projection: 101/39/114/.293/.370/.558/2

15) Aaron Judge NYY, OF, 26.11 – Remains the average exit velocity king with a league leading 94.7 MPH mark in 2018, although his flyball percentage declined over 8% from last season to a career low 35%. 2019 Projection: 108/40/106/.270/.398/.577/7

16) Cody Bellinger LAD, OF/1B, 23.9 – Story hammered home the lesson of not selling low after a down second season. 2019 Projection: 85/33/99/.265/.353/.504/12 Prime Projection: 107/42/114/.287/.395/.581/12

17) Javier Baez CHC, SS/2B/3B, 26.4 – 4.5% walk rate is silly low for an elite hitter, which is why I worry that Baez is not a truly elite hitter, but the power/speed combo isn’t going anywhere. 2019 Projection: 93/29/102/.276/.320/.518/17

18) Andrew Benintendi BOS, OF, 24.9 – Above average contributor in every category with room to grow into even more. Hitting lefties is only true weakness (.694 OPS vs lefties in 2018). 2019 Projection: 100/21/93/.286/.361/.472/19 Prime Projection: 110/26/91/.303/.376/.492/18

19) Ozzie Albies ATL, 2B, 22.3 – With improved strength and plate discipline, which is a reasonable expectation considering Albies’ age, he could be joining the ranks of the elite in a few short years.  2019 Projection: 91/22/73/.277/.328/.468/18 Prime Projection: 110/28/82/.292/.351/.502/22

20) Eloy Jimenez CHW, OF, 22.4 – Just the latest case of baseball fans being robbed of seeing the best young players compete on the highest level. Eloy is an exit velocity beast who also makes good contact (13.2% K% at Triple-A). 2019 Projection: 61/25/69/.281/.338/.504/1 Prime Projection: 92/42/109/.306/.377/.563/1

21) Adalberto Mondesi KC, SS, 23.8 – Extremely low walk rates scare me more than extremely high strikeout rates. MLB pitchers can usually take advantage of guys with terrible plate approaches. Having said that, Mondesi is one of the fastest players in baseball with thunder in his bat. If you can’t take risks in fantasy, where can you take risks? 2019 Projection: 78/22/69/.244/.287/.446/35 Prime Projection: 89/28/77/.256/.303/.472/42

22) Jose Altuve HOU, 2B, 28.11 – The fear is that Altuve simply won’t be willing to run as much as he ages, whether due to loss of speed or fear of injury. Trade value also tanks when players even start to get close to the age of 30. A good start to 2019 could be your last chance to get a true haul back for Altuve.  2019 Projection: 103/19/79/.321/.396/.492/23

23) Victor Robles WASH, OF, 21.10 – Don’t sleep on Robles coming into 2019, as he has all of the skills necessary to become a top 5 dynasty asset in short order. Only red flag is that his exit velocity readings were well below average in his brief MLB debut, but that was a small sample size and he should gain strength as he matures. 2019 Projection: 84/16/71/.272/.327/.430/24 Prime Projection: 104/21/75/.296/.370/.477/32

24) Carlos Correa HOU, SS, 24.6 – Nagging back injury tanked season. Correa did lower his GB% to a career low 44%, which could be an early sign of a power breakout on the horizon assuming full health. 2019 Projection: 89/27/95/.271/.355/.482/7 Prime Projection: 97/32/105/.284/.370/.520/7

25) Kris Bryant CHC, 3B, 27.3 – Exit velocity declined three years in a row. Bum shoulder is his excuse in 2018, but what was his excuse in 2017? 2019 Projection: 102/30/89/.281/.393/.518/7

26) Fernando Tatis Jr. SD, SS, 20.3 –  Is it possible that information on how to hit a baseball get passed down to future generations through DNA? Seriously. This New York Times article suggests that it just might be possible! Tatis has the best power/speed combo in the minors but might always have some swing and miss to his game.  ETA: Late 2019 unless he gets Eloy’d Prime Projection: 92/34/108/.273/.362/.526/16

27) Blake Snell TB, LHP, 26.4 – Flame throwing lefty who will rack up strikeout totals. 2019 Projection: 13/3.08/1.10/239 in 190 IP

28) Aaron Nola PHI, RHP, 25.10 – Proving that elite velocity is not required to become an ace. Nola dominates with the most valuable curveball in baseball . 2019 Projection: 15/3.21/1.06/215 in 200 IP

29) Walker Buehler LAD, RHP, 24.8 – Only question left is if Buehler’s arm can withstand season after season of full 190+ inning workloads along with deep postseason runs. 2019 Projection: 14/3.18/1.05/195 in 170 IP Prime Projection: 16/2.82/1.03/221 in 187 IP

30) Shohei Ohtani LAA, RHP/OF, 24.9 – Tommy John surgery will prevent Ohtani from pitching at all in 2019. Also likely to be out for a month or two to start the season, and will require rest days as he rehabs his throwing elbow.  2019 Projection: 70/23/79/.265/.346/.509/10 Prime Projection: 61/19/63/.279/.361/.534/10 — 12/3.35/1.18/180 in 150 IP

31) J.D. Martinez BOS, OF, 31.7 – Aging and has an injury history, but at some point present production has to trump youth. This is that point. 2019 Projection: 101/40/112/.303/.381/.578/3

32) Jacob deGrom NYM, RHP, 30.9 – Velocity increased for 3 straight seasons and also increased as 2018 wore on. deGrom was throwing harder than he ever has late in the year. 2019 Projection: 14/2.52/1.02/250 in 210 IP

33) Chris Sale BOS, LHP, 30.0 – It’s never great for a shoulder injury to pop up with pitchers, especially ones entering their 30’s. The risk is already high for all starting pitchers, so how much extra you want to factor in for Sale is hard to calculate. 2019 Projection: 16/2.69/0.98/266 in 195 IP

34) Max Scherzer WASH, RHP, 34.8 – No signs of slowing down. Even entering his mid 30’s, Scherzer’s consistent dominance is hard to pass up. 2019 Projection: 17/2.88/0.96/268 in 205 IP

35) Paul Goldschmidt STL, 1B, 31.7 – Probably one year too late to really get a massive haul back for him, so might as well stick it out and hope he keeps stealing bases well into his 30’s. 2019 Projection: 96/32/96/.288/.395/.531/12

36) Giancarlo Stanton NYY, OF, 29.5 – K%, BB%, and especially FB% all trended in the wrong direction last season. He still absolutely crushes the ball, and don’t think he is about to fall off a cliff or anything, but I’m likely shying away from Stanton at his current price. 2019 Projection: 95/41/104/.261/.349/.550/4

37) Freddie Freeman ATL, 1B, 29.7 – Homerun power came back down to career norms in 2018 after exploding in 2016-17. This upcoming season is the time to sell Freeman if your team is not off to a great start. 2019 Projection: 90/28/96/.298/.380/.510/7

38) Rhys Hoskins PHI, OF/1B, 26.0 – Led the league in FB% at 51.7%. No other hitter even cracked over 50%. Hoskins will continue to be a homerun and walk machine. 2019 Projection: 88/35/93/.255/.362/.505/4

39) Gleyber Torres NYY, 2B, 22.4 – Only knock on Torres’ game is his poor base running skills, which combined with average speed does not bode well for his future stolen base totals. 2019 Projection: 86/23/84/.274/.345/.468/9 Prime Projection: 105/27/93/.284/.352/.490/9

40) Gerrit Cole HOU, RHP, 28.7 – Maybe it is all about the pine tar, as Trevor Bauer showed us, but the Astros organization is so advanced and on the cutting edge, I think they probably have some kind of edge in pitch calling, pitch sequencing and just generally knowing what pitch to throw and when depending on pitcher, hitter, and game situation. 2019 Projection: 16/3.21/1.14/247 in 200 IP

41) Xander Bogaerts BOS, SS, 26.6 – Quietly re-established himself as a young star last season by smacking baseballs to the tune of a 90.5 MPH avg. exit velocity and 95.1 MPH avg exit velocity on fly balls and line drives. Combine that with above average speed and a solid plate approach, and even this ranking may be too low. 2019 Projection: 86/25/99/.285/.356/.515/12

42) David Dahl COL, OF, 25.0 – I urged you to hang on to Dahl for dear life last off-season in the one ranking I did manage to (partially) put out, and I hope you listened because you would have been rewarded with a half season of excellent production and a return to near elite dynasty value.  2019 Projection: 81/23/86/.268/.325/.463/13 Prime Projection: 98/29/102/.282/.349/.521/14

43) Corey Seager LAD, SS, 24.11 – Working his way back from Tommy John and hip surgeries. At only 24 years old, human bodies don’t quit on that whole healing yourself thing quite yet, so you have to value him assuming he will return to full health. 2019 Projection: 83/23/78/.285/.362/.483/2 Prime Projection: 97/28/94/.292/.375/.510/2

44) Anthony Rizzo CHC, 1B, 29.8 – Shook off a slow start and finished the year slashing .329/.420/.550 with 13 homers and a 34/33 K/BB in 70 games. Chronic back pain has a way of continually popping up though. 2019 Projection: 90/30/100/.281/.379/.504/6

45) Anthony Rendon WASH, 3B, 28.10 – With a 13.7% K% and 17.7 degree launch angle, there is potential for a monster career season lurking in here. 2019 Projection: 87/26/94/.300/.370/.515/5

46) Trevor Bauer CLE, RHP, 28.2 – Exposing all of the pine tar cheaters one tweet at a time, most nobly his old frenemy from their UCLA days, Gerrit Cole. 2019 Projection: 15/3.14/1.17/218 in 190 IP

47) Luis Severino NYY, RHP, 25.1 – Hit a rough patch in the 2nd half of 2018, and simply being a young hurler who averages 97.9 MPH on his fastball puts him in a high risk category. I really don’t like betting on pitchers staying healthy and carrying my dynasty team for any long periods of time. Update: Inflammation in his rotator cuff make him questionable at best for opening day. This is why I rank hitters so much higher than pitchers.  2019 Prime Projection: 12/3.20/1.12/182 in 160 IP

48) Rafael Devers BOS, 3B, 22.5 – Will have to cut down on strikeout rate to tap into full potential, but Devers hits frozen ropes all over the field. 2019 Projection: 73/24/81/.267/.330/.482/8 Prime Projection: 96/33/111/.288/.358/.521/8

49) Kyle Tucker HOU, OF, 21.4 – Below average sprint speed is a bad sign that his minor league stolen base numbers might not hold up in the Majors. I do believe his power and plate approach will translate. 2019 Projection: 42/10/47/.250/.320/.450/7 Prime Projection: 92/31/101/.278/.371/.518/10

50) Wander Franco TB, SS, 18.1 – The next Juan Soto/Vlad Jr. prodigy with a seemingly innate ability to hit a baseball and hit it with authority. ETA: 2021/22 Prime Projection: 110/30/110/.310/.395/.587/18

51) Royce Lewis MIN, SS, 19.10 – Elite upside with a safe floor. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 104/23/87/.293/.351/.475/25

52) Starling Marte PIT, OF, 30.6 – 2017 PED suspension didn’t seem to slow Marte down as he was back to his normal self in 2018. 2019 Projection: 83/18/68/.282/.331/.445/31

53) Yoan Moncada CHW, 2B, 23.10 – With so few at-bats in the upper levels of the minors, it is no surprise Moncada has especially struggled with contact early in his MLB career. Everything else has been on display (power, patience, and speed), so if he can make the proper adjustments as he continues to gain experience, he could blow up at any minute. 2019 Projection: 77/23/64/.242/.333/.426/19 Prime Projection: 101/32/89/.258/.364/.480/23

54) Austin Meadows TB, OF, 23.11 – Mallex Smith trade opens up playing time for Meadows. Former elite prospect who lost some of his shine because of injuries and prospect fatigue, but performed well in his MLB debut, slashing .287/.325/.461 with 6 homers, 5 steals, and a 40/10 K/BB in 59 games. 2019 Projection: 78/18/69/.268/.321/.448/16 Prime Projection: 105/26/92/.289/.366/.509/17

55) Nick Senzel CIN, 3B, 23.9 – Various injuries are the only thing slowing Senzel down as he has ripped up every level of the minors. David Wright is the ceiling. 2019 Projection: 66/14/64/.270/.330/.440/10 Prime Projection: 93/24/91/.288/.360/.484/13

56) Bo Bichette TOR, SS, 21.1 – Average speed makes it hard to project 20+ steals but should be an all category producer nonetheless. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 92/25/89/.289/.358/.498/15

57) Jo Adell LAA, OF, 20.0 – Astronomical upside but cutting down on strikeouts will be necessary to reach ceiling. ETA: Late 2021 Prime Projection: 94/37/107/.265/.348/.540/14

58) Noah Syndergaard NYM, RHP, 26.7 – Came down with hand, foot, and mouth disease. It’s almost like the baseball gods ran out of conventional ways to sideline Mets pitchers and had to go deep into their playbook. Tune in next season to see if Jacob deGrom can shake off a bout of the Black Plague. 2019 Projection: 11/3.26/1.17/185 in 170 IP

59) Jack Flaherty STL, RHP, 23.6 – Took a huge leap in strikeouts thanks to a dominant fastball/slider combo, but good fortune (.257 BABIP) also helped him achieve that 3.34/1.11/182 in 152 IP pitching line. 2019 Projection: 13/3.76/1.22/200 in 183 IP Prime Projection: 16/3.34/1.12/230 in 200 IP

60) Forrest Whitley HOU, RHP, 21.6 – Listening to his interview during the Fall Stars Game, it is easy to understand how Whitley is so far ahead of his peers in terms of the art of pitching. Combine that with great stuff, and you get the top pitching prospect in the minors. 2019 Projection: 7/3.75/1.23/102 in 85 IP Prime Projection: 18/3.25/1.07/240 in 210 IP

61) Charlie Blackmon COL, OF, 33.9 – If you want to win next season, Blackmon should shoot up your list, but if you are looking to build through youth, he would have to drop for you to pull the trigger. 2019 Projection: 112/27/74/.293/.357/.498/10

62) Corey Kluber CLE, RHP, 33.0 – Velocity on 3 year decline and was hitting career lows by the end of the 2018 season. 2019 Projection: 17/3.05/1.03/226 in 207 IP

63) Brendan Rodgers COL, SS, 22.8 – Could be a 2nd half difference maker next season if the Rockies stop prospect blocking their best young players with mediocre vets. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 83/29/96/.284/.339/.498/5

64) Justin Verlander HOU, RHP, 36.1 – Velocity and stuff are as good as they ever have been. 2019 Projection: 16/3.11/1.01/265 in 210 IP

65) Clayton Kershaw LAD, LHP 31.0 –  Velocity decline continued last season and is now undoubtedly in the back nine of his career. Feb. 22 Update: Kershaw was shut down from throwing with “kind of an arm kind of thing.” This is not a good sign if you were hoping for a resurgence this season. 2019 Projection:11/3.04/1.09/169 in 160 IP

66) Whit Merrifield KC, 2B/OF, 30.4 – Proved that his 2017 breakout was for real, hitting for a .304 batting average with 12 homers and 45 steals. 2019 Projection: 84/15/65/.289/.345/.441/32

67) George Springer HOU, OF, 29.6 – Didn’t become quite the player we hoped for when he was going close to 40/40 in the minors, but what he became is not too shabby. 2019 Projection: 104/27/68/.272/.353/.470/7

68) Mitch Haniger SEA, OF, 28.3 – Solid all around hitter who will chip in some steals. 2019 Projection: 88/27/92/.276/.351/.487/8

69) Eugenio Suarez CIN, 3B, 27.8 – The perennially underrated Suarez should start to get his due after crushing 34 homers last season. Although looking at my ranking, maybe not. 2019 Projection: 82/28/75/.267/.358/.491/3

70) Tim Anderson CHW, SS, 25.9 – Still raw hitter who might not really come into his own until his late 20’s. Power/speed combo will Baba Booey his value until then. 2019 Projection: 80/19/66/.259/.297/.419/23 Prime Projection: 96/23/74/.277/.324/.463/27

71) Matt Chapman OAK, 3B, 25.11 – Slashed .309/..371/.591 with 14 homers and a 68/23 K/BB post all-star break in 64 games. The ingredients are there for 30+ homers and a batting average that won’t drag you down. 2019 Projection: 93/31/89/.266/.349/.516/3

72) Michael Conforto NYM, OF, 26.1 – Slashed .273/.356/.539 with 17 homers post all star break. 2019 Projection: 82/29/88/.266/.371/.500/4

73) Amed Rosario NYM, SS, 23.4 – Another extremely low walk rate guy who makes better contact than Mondesi but doesn’t have quite as explosive of a power/speed combo. 2019 Projection: 80/12/57/.268/.309/.400/26 Prime Projection: 98/18/72/.282/.335/.445/28

74) Eddie Rosario MIN, OF, 27.6 – Posted career best marks in K% (17.6%) and flyball% (44.1%). Low walk rate (5.1%) is the only thing keeping me from buying in even more. 2019 Projection: 80/26/80/.278/.320/.471/9

75) Miguel Andujar NYY, 3B, 24.1 – Aggressive hitter who consistently makes good, hard contact. 2019 Projection: 79/26/91/.283/.323/.489/2 Prime Projection: 91/29/103/.291/.340/.547/2

76) Matt Olson OAK, 1B, 25.0 – Couldn’t come close to maintaining his insane 2017 numbers, but Olson proved he has the potential to be among the best power hitters in the game with an elite average exit velocity (93.1 MPH) and elite exit velo on FB/LD (97.4 MPH). 2019 Projection: 89/34/93/.253/.342/.496/2

77) Jose Berrios MIN, RHP, 24.10 – I got nothing for this one … good young pitcher. 2019 Projection: 12/3.81/1.21/193 in 190 IP Prime Projection: 14/3.61/1.13/213 in 200 IP

78) Carlos Carrasco CLE, RHP, 32.0 – There have been a few injury issues but Carrasco put up a career high 15.3% swinging strike percentage in 2018. 2019 Projection: 16/3.30/1.12/221 in 190 IP

79) Khris Davis OAK, OF, 31.3 – Eerily consistent. 2019 Projection: 90/42/108/.247/.324/.530/1

80) Keston Hiura MIL, 2B, 22.8 – Lit up the Arizona Fall League after an impressive first full year in pro ball. Hiura should be a solid all around contributor. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 92/23/87/.287/.350/.476/13

81) James Paxton NYY, LHP, 30.5 – Over 30 and injury prone is not a great combo, but there is potential for an elite season or two if the stars align. 2019 Projection: 14/3.42/1.17/212 in 170 IP

82) Stephen Strasburg WASH, RHP, 30.8 – Velocity was down about 2 MPH when he returned late in the season from inflammation in his shoulder and a pinched nerve in his neck. Strasburg has been injury prone his entire career and there is no evidence that will change any time soon. 2019 Projection: 10/3.66/1.19/170 in 145 IP

83) Yasiel Puig CIN, OF, 28.4, – Forever an enigma. Has the talent to put together an elite season. 2019 Projection: 75/27/82/.265/.334/.475/13

84) German Marquez COL, RHP, 25.1 – I always say I would never own a Coors pitcher, but circumstances somehow dictated that I ended up owning Marquez in both my 30 team dynasty league and 12 team dynasty. He carried my pitching staff to a championship in both leagues. I have no analysis here. Just wanted to take a blurb off to gloat. 2019 Projection: 15/3.44/1.18/220 in 195 IP

85) Mike Clevinger CLE, RHP, 28.3 – Velocity increased as the year progressed and resulted in post all-star break pitching line of 2.31/1.03/89 in 78 IP. 2019 Projection: 14/3.41/1.18/190 in 185 IP

86) Patrick Corbin WASH, LHP, 29.8 – Couldn’t have landed in a much better situation than the Nationals and the NL East to prove he isn’t a one year wonder. 2019 Projection: 14/3.46/1.18/220 in 195 IP

87) Joey Gallo TEX, 1B/OF, 25.4 – Owning extreme one dimensional players can hamstring your flexibility on how to build the rest of your team. At a certain point, you just can’t pass up 40+ homers, though. 2019 Projection: 85/43/95/.222/.331/.530/6

88) Jameson Taillon PIT, RHP, 27.4 – Was never a huge strikeout pitcher even in the minors, but Taillon throws in the mid-90’s and consistently produces weak contact. 2019 Projection: 13/3.65/1.20/183 in 190 IP

89) Zack Wheeler NYM, RHP, 28.10 – Even when pitching prospects do work out, they might not even be on your team anymore. Wheeler finally fulfilled his promise in the 2nd half of 2018, putting up a pitching line of 1.68/0.81/73 in 75 IP. 2019 Projection: 10/3.57/1.21/180 in 180 IP

90) Alex Kirilloff MIN, OF, 21.5 – Excellent all around hitter who is advanced beyond his years. ETA: Late 2020 Prime Projection: 93/28/96/.292/.348/.531/4

91) Jose Peraza CIN, SS, 24.11 – Gifted contact/speed player from the second he stepped on a professional baseball field as a teenager. 2019 Projection: 81/11/60/.287/.328/.396/26

92) Gary Sanchez NYY, C, 26.4 – Off-season shoulder surgery could result in some rust to start the year, but it does provide at least one good reason for Sanchez’ disastrous 2018. 2019 Projection: 66/27/79/.248/.321/.467/1

93) Jean Segura PHI, SS, 29.0 – Posted lowest strikeout rate of career (10.9%) while continuing to put up solid power/speed numbers. 2019 Projection: 89/15/57/.304/.345/.430/22

94) Wil Myers SD, OF/3B, 28.4 – Power and speed with the potential to kill your average. 2019 Projection: 82/26/78/.248/.324/.456/19

95) Rougned Odor TEX, 2B, 25.2 – Walk rate spiking to 8% (previous career high was 4.9%) is a good sign for Odor’s future because the power and speed have always been there. 2019 Projection: 85/28/73/.258/.317/.455/13

96) Aaron Hicks NYY, OF, 29.6 – Exhibit A on why you never give up on plus tools (like the Twins did with Hicks) and always take a flier on former top prospects in their late 20’s as long as the talent hasn’t eroded.  2019 Projection: 88/26/80/.259/.363/.473/11

97) Travis Shaw MIL, 2B/3B, 28.11 – Career bests in K% (18.4%) and BB% (13.3%) portend good things for Shaw’s future. .242 BABIP tanked his average (.241) in 2018. 2019 Projection: 76/29/87/.261/.347/.490/6

98) Justin Upton LAA, OF, 31.7 – 28% K% the last two seasons show the average is going in the wrong direction, but Upton is hitting the ball as hard as he ever has. 2019 Projection: 80/29/86/.253/.341/.472/7

99) A.J. Pollock LAD, OF, 31.4 – Has eclipsed 443 AB only once in career. Pollock’s power looks like it might age well, but I wouldn’t bet on anything else doing the same. 2019 Projection: 79/22/73/.261/.322/.470/18

100) Tommy Pham TB, OF, 31.1 – Backed up his breakout 2017 with another excellent power/speed showing in 2018, although most of the damage came in his 39 game debut with Tampa (1.071 OPS). 2019 Projection: 85/20/72/.272/.364/.471/17

101) Luis Castillo CIN, RHP, 26.4 – Exploded post all-star break with a pitching line of 2.44/0.96/69 in 66.1 IP. 2019 Projection: 11/3.62/1.17/186 in 182 IP

102) Madison Bumgarner SF, LHP, 29.8 – Banged up the past two seasons from freak-ish injuries. Assuming he remains healthy, I wouldn’t be surprised if there were a few more near prime seasons in the tank. 2019 Projection: 11/3.48/1.20/178 in 190 IP

103) Nomar Mazara TEX, OF, 23.11 – In leagues that aren’t keep forever, it’s not only annoying when a team refuses to call a prospect up when he is ready, but also when they call them up too soon and burn important years of team control. Nothing you can do but stay patient with Mazara. 2019 Projection: 73/25/88/.266/.328/.450/1 Prime Projection: 83/30/102/.277/.349/.500/2

104) Ian Happ CHC, OF/3B, 24.8 – Strikeout rate is going in the wrong direction, posting a career worst mark of 36.1% last season. 2019 Projection: 69/20/59/.248/.346/.466/8 Prime Projection: 92/26/83/.258/.352/4.80/10

105) Tyler O’Neill STL, OF, 23.9 – The next Judge/Gallo/Olson/Chapman. He walks, hits it extremely hard, and hits it in the air. Only question is how bad will his strikeout rate be. 2019 Projection: 31/10/33/.238/.300/.470/4 Prime Projection: 88/35/100/.255/.339/.510/10

106) Brent Honeywell TB, RHP, 24.0 – Honeywell has started to throw off a mound as he continues his rehab from Tommy John surgery. When healthy, he throws at least 5 pitches and was a master at the art of pitching. 2019 Projection: 5/4.30/1.34/75 in 80 IP Prime Projection: 15/3.33/1.13/205 in 190 IP

107) Alex Reyes STL, RHP, 24.7 – Two lost seasons due to injury (elbow and lat). If you own him, there is no reason to sell low, but there is legitimate bullpen risk. 2019 Projection: 5/3.82/1.31/118 in 96 IP Prime Projection: 12/3.42/1.26/200 in 170 IP

108) Jesus Luzardo OAK, LHP, 21.6 – Three plus pitches (fastball, changeup, curveball) with plus command. 2019 Projection: 6/3.94/1.28/78 in 90 IP Prime Projection: 15/3.30/1.10/198 in 195 IP

109) Lorenzo Cain MIL, OF, 33.0 – No immediate signs of Cain’s speed falling off, which could mean now is the time to sell. 2019 Projection: 92/12/50/.294/.369/.425/26

110) Edwin Diaz NYM, Closer, 25.0 – When to dip into the closer market is always a tough call. Most of the time it is a game of chicken to see who bites first and then there is a big run on them. My advice is to ignore general rankings of closers, and strike when you have to based on how the draft is going. 2019 Projection: 4/2.42/0.93/110/36 in 70 IP

111) Nicholas Castellanos DET, OF, 27.1 – Groundball and strikeout rate headed in the wrong direction, but he still hits the snot out the ball. 2019 Projection: 80/25/93/.280/.338/.490/2

112) Marcell Ozuna STL, OF, 28.5 – Battled tendinitis and inflammation in his throwing shoulder since 2017. Ozuna did look back to his normal self by the end of the season (.862 OPS in August and .906 OPS in September), but this type of injury can linger. 2019 Projection: 76/28/93/.284/.337/.476/2

113) Byron Buxton MIN, OF, 25.3 – It’s always darkest before the dawn … or so I would keep telling myself if I owned Buxton. 2019 Projection: 67/15/53/.242/.298/.405/22 Prime Projection: 81/20/68/.255/.320/.435/30

114) J.T. Realmuto PHI, C, 28.1 – Overrated in real life and in fantasy. Trade to Philly’s much better ballpark and lineup at least gives him a chance to live up to his reputation. 2019 Projection: 76/20/79/.279/.337/.471/7

115) Jurickson Profar OAK, SS/3B/1B, 26.1 – Rose up from the graveyard of failed prospects and showed off the skills that made him so highly rated in the first place, with a 14.7% K%, 20 homers and a perfect 10 for 10 on the basepaths. 2019 Projection: 86/18/79/.270/.350/.465/10

116) Robbie Ray ARI, LHP, 27.6 – Strikeouts and walks. You just gotta hope the strikeouts come after the walks. 2019 Projection: 12/3.69/1.29/225 in 170 IP

117) Gregory Polanco PIT, OF, 27.6 – Surgery to repair a dislocated shoulder and labrum should keep Polanco out at least a couple months into 2019. You probably have to wait until 2020 for that career year. 2019 Projection: 52/17/56/.252/.332/.460/9

118) Michael Brantley HOU, OF, 31.11 – Finally stayed healthy and picked up right where he left off, with an elite K% (9.5%) and moderate power/speed combo. 2019 Projection: 88/18/79/.300/.355/.451/11

119) Eduardo Rodriguez BOS, LHP, 26.0 – Perfect breakout candidate to target. Young, already had MLB success, and just underrated enough to acquire at a reasonable price. 2019 Projection: 11/3.72/1.26/168 in 160 IP Prime Projection: 16/3.42/1.21/210 in 190 IP

120) Shane Bieber CLE, RHP, 23.10 – Command is Bieber’s best asset as a pitcher which helps his 4 pitch arsenal play up. 2019 Projection: 11/3.75/1.24/172 in 181 IP

121) Jonathan Villar BAL, 2B, 27.11 – Considering Baltimore’s lineup it is going to be homers and steals and not much else. 2019 Projection: 77/15/69/.256/.325/.394/32

122) Jose Abreu CHW, 1B, 32.2 – Groin and thigh injuries were the reason for Abreu’s down season. Staying healthy gets harder as you age, but the skills are still there if he heals up. 2019 Projection: 81/29/92/.283/.346/.497/2

123) Michael Kopech CHW, RHP, 22.11 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in September. Elite stuff but still more of a thrower than a pitcher. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 17/3.45/1.21/240 in 200 IP

124) Harrison Bader STL, OF, 24.10 – Line drive hitter with a high strikeout rate and elite sprint speed. Mashes lefties. Defense should keep him on the field as he continues to develop against righties. 2019 Projection: 81/18/61/.259/.330/.428/18 Prime Projection: 91/22/74/.272/.345/.463/20

125) Ramon Laureano OAK, OF, 24.9 – Inconsistent minor league career could be a sign of things to come considering Laureano’s high strikeout rates, but his patience, power, and speed should always be there. 2019 Projection: 78/17/67/.251/.324/.421/18 Prime Projection: 86/19/73/.261/.342/.450/23

126) Brandon Nimmo NYM, OF, 26.0 – Major bump in OBP leagues. Along with getting on base, Nimmo is fast and hits the ball hard. 2019 Projection: 84/20/57/.266/.391/.470/10

127) Roberto Osuna HOU, Closer, 24.2 – Doesn’t have the elite K upside of some of the other top closers, but is elite in everything else. 2019 Projection: 3/2.78/0.92/77/36 in 70 IP

128) Kyle Schwarber CHC, OF, 26.9 – Classic three true outcome slugger in the strong side of a platoon. 2019 Projection: 72/28/80/.242/.355/.477/4

129) Julio Urias LAD, LHP, 22.8 – Returned from major shoulder surgery at the end of the year and became a weapon out of the pen for LA. Still a question of what his stuff will look like as a starter, but Urias’ stock could skyrocket with a good showing this Spring. 2019 Projection: 6/3.87/1.31/92 in 90 IP Prime Projection: 14/3.39/1.11/188 in 182 IP

130) Willson Contreras CHC, C, 26.11 – HR/FB tanked to 9.3% after sitting at 23.5% and 25.9% the last two seasons, respectively. Considering the consistently high number of groundballs Contreras hits, he is going to need all of the luck on flyballs he can get to return considerable value. 2019 Projection: 52/17/61/.261/.345/.442/4

131) Taylor Trammell CIN, OF, 21.6 – Approach is a bit of the slap hitter variety right now, which makes sense given his speed, but in order to fully tap into his potential he is going to have start hitting the ball with more authority on a regular basis. ETA: Late 2020 Prime Projection: 92/18/73/.266/.344/.452/24

132) Miles Mikolas STL, RHP, 30.7 – I would expect regression, but Mikolas was not a mirage. 2019 Projection: 15/3.41/1.18/150 in 190 IP

133) Masahiro Tanaka NYY, RHP, 30.5 – Pitching through that torn UCL like a champ. It’s all about the mind/body connection. Although I do wonder how good Tanaka could have been had he remained healthy.  2019 Projection: 13/3.68/1.18/181 in 173 IP

134) Chris Archer PIT, RHP, 30.6 – Finally got out of the AL East and pitched like he was still in it anyway. He’s gotta have an ERA under 4 this year, right? Right!? Right. 2019 Projection: 11/3.74/1.28/210 in 190 IP

135) Nick Pivetta PHI, RHP, 27.1 – Major breakout in 2018 but because it didn’t show up in Pivetta’s surface stats you should be able to get him at a discount this off-season. 2019 Projection: 11/3.80/1.29/205 in 180 IP

136) Peter Alonso NYM, 1B, 24.4 – Put on an exit velocity show during the AFL. There is no question he will hit for power at the major league level. 2019 Projection: 47/19/62/.243/.320/.460/1 Prime Projection: 83/34/101/.258/.339/.508/1

137) Garrett Hampson COL, 2B, 24.6 – One of the fastest players in baseball with an excellent plate approach and Coors Field at his back. Value will take a major swing based on whether Colorado gives him the 2B job to start the season. 2019 Projection: 73/8/58/.278/.335/.412/28 Prime Projection: 94/14/65/.291/.366/.449/35

138) Carter Kieboom WASH, SS, 21.7 – Will probably move off SS with Turner holding it down in Washington, but Kieboom’s bat will be good enough to profile anywhere. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 92/25/86/.280/.366/.485/9

139) Brian Dozier WASH, 2B, 31.11 – Major decline in exit velocity is the most glaring difference between this year and the last two seasons. Dozier blames a knee injury that he picked up in April, which I guess sapped the power out of his swing. With full health, he should bounce back, but injuries have a way of popping up in your 30’s. 2019 Projection: 89/28/82/.251/.329/.460/11

140) Jesus Aguilar MIL, 1B, 28.9 – Nothing in the underlying numbers suggest Aguilar is a fluke, but 2018 is likely the very best you can expect. 2019 Projection: 76/28/90/.267/.344/.491/0

141) Yordan Alvarez HOU, OF, 21.9 – Big lefty slugger with a swing reminiscent of many great big lefty sluggers throughout history. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 82/29/98/.268/.354/.505/2

142) Luis Robert CHW, OF, 21.8 – Thumb injury tanked Robert’s numbers this season, but he was able to show off his immense upside towards the end of the AFL. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 86/27/88/.265/.338/.481/18

143) Jonathan India CIN, 3B, 22.3 – My #1 pick in a first year player draft, India ripped up the SEC (.350/.497/.717 with 21 homers, 15 steals and a 56/60 K/BB in 68 games) before displaying those same power/speed skills in pro ball. ETA: Mid 2020 Prime Projection: 91/24/85/.268/.346/.463/14

144) Nolan Gorman STL, 3B, 18.11 – Lived up to his reputation as a beast in his first taste of pro ball, hitting 17 homers in 63 games split between rookie ball and full season ball. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 88/36/105/.265/.355/.520/2

145) Yusei Kikuchi SEA, LHP, 27.9 – Consistently throws in the mid 90’s with a bevy of secondary pitches. Not considered as highly as Darvish, Dice-K, and Tanaka when they were posted, but is in the class directly below that. 2019 Projection: 12/3.69/1.21/163 in 170 IP

146) Mike Foltynewicz ATL, RHP, 27.6 – Like many pitchers these days, minimizing the sinker led to an increase in strikeouts and productivity. Update: Sore elbow. Has been ruled out for opening day and there is no timetable for his return. 2019 Projection: 12/3.64/1.25/184 in 178 IP

147) Zack Greinke ARI, RHP, 35.5 – Velocity declined on all of his pitches for the 3rd year in a row. Greinke is still effective, but clearly on the back nine of his career. 2019 Projection: 15/3.58/1.15/190 in 195 IP

148) Scooter Gennett CIN, 2B, 28.11 – Exit velocity and strikeout rate do not match Gennett’s excellent surface numbers the last two seasons. That concerns me. Steamer isn’t buying in either (.261/.313/.425) 2019 Projection: 79/21/87/.289/.336/.479/3

149) Manuel Margot SD, 24.6 – On the Lorenzo Cain/Jean Segura career path. Might take Margot a few years to really hit his stride, but once he does, he will be a consistent source of steals with double digit homers. 2019 Projection: 62/13/55/.263/.317/.410/19 Prime Projection: 86/15/61/.281/.337/.445/25

150) Willy Adames TB, SS, 23.7 – Numbers in MLB debut were solid (.287/.348/.406) but the underlying numbers were not as promising (29.4% K%, 86.5 avg. exit velo, 8.6 degree launch angle).  2019 Projection: 76/15/64/.256/.331/.392/11 Prime Projection: 87/20/79/.278/.355/.443/13

151) Mallex Smith SEA, OF, 25.11 – Traded to the Mariners this off-season. The Mariners are the team in your fantasy league that has absolutely no discernible long term plan and seems to just make moves willy nilly. This year they are trying rebuilding, maybe … we think. Even a bad plan is better than no plan at all.  2019 Projection: 72/5/46/.278/.347/.360/32 Prime Projection: 86/9/53/.286/.358/.392/35

152) Matt Carpenter STL, 1B/3B, 33.4 – Homers and walks. The older, lefty version of Hoskins. 2019 Projection: 93/30/72/.255/.368/.497/2

153) Joey Votto CIN, 1B, 35.7 – Power disappeared but nothing in the underlying stats and exit velocity suggest it was anything more than HR/FB bad luck. He is 35 years old, so a real decline could very well be coming soon. 2019 Projection: 88/26/80/.292/.427/.498/3

154) Justin Turner LAD, 3B, 34.4 – Elite plate approach, contact percentage, and flyball rate. He’s getting old, but there is more juice in here. 2019 Projection: 80/22/73/.296/.380/.499/4

155) Josh Donaldson ATL, 3B, 33.4 – Bottom dropped out last season but there were warning signs for a few years now. With good health, the talent is still there, but I’m not betting on good health. 2019 Projection: 84/29/78/.259/.362/.497/4

156) David Price BOS, LHP, 33.7 – Showed he can still be effective with reduced fastball velocity by upping his cutter usage. It’s the Andy Pettitte school of pitching. 2019 Projection: 15/3.75/1.20/170 in 175 IP

157) Craig Kimbrel FA, Closer, 30.10 – As reliable as they come. Hasn’t had a single bad, or lost to injury season in his entire career. 2019 Projection: 3/2.82/1.01/94/36 in 64 IP

158) Felipe Vazquez PIT, Closer, 27.9 – 98.5 MPH flame throwing closer. 2019 Projection: 4/2.97/1.14/87/35 in 72 IP

159) Blake Treinen OAK, Closer, 30.9 – Hadn’t given up more than 1 ER in any appearance this entire season until giving up 3 ER to the Yanks in the AL play-in game. Regular season Oakland/Billy Beane magic has a way of wearing off in the playoffs. 2019 Projection: 5/2.88/1.04/88/34 in 70 IP

160) Aroldis Chapman NYY, Closer, 31.1 – Fastball down 1 MPH for the second year in a row to a now meager 99.1 MPH. How will he ever adjust? 2019 Projection: 3/2.79/1.09/98/34 in 60 IP

161) Kenley Jansen LAD, Closer, 31.6 – Irregular heartbeat that has now required two heart surgeries. I hope for a full recovery. 2019 Projection: 3/2.87/0.95/88/40 in 69 IP

162) Brad Hand CLE, Closer, 29.0 – Has struck out over 100 batters the last three seasons of his career. 2019 Projection: 4/3.26/1.13/101/33 in 72 IP

163) Kyle Hendricks CHC, RHP, 29.4 – Safe, low upside innings eater. 2019 Projection: 13/3.50/1.18/165 in 190 IP

164) MacKenzie Gore SD, LHP, 20.1 – Blister issues prevented Gore from pitching his best, but he was still able to display 4 potential plus pitches to go along with plus command and control. ETA: 2021/22 Prime Projection: 15/3.21/1.07/215 in 200 IP

165) Ender Inciarte ATL, OF, 28.5 – Stole 87 bases but has also been caught 40 times since 2015. Shhhh … noboby let Atlanta know that this guy shouldn’t be attempting so many steals. 2019 Projection: 88/10/58/.283/.331/.395/21

166) Paul DeJong STL, SS, 25.8 – Hits it hard and hits it in the air. 2019 Projection: 79/27/82/.258/.319/.473/2

167) Max Kepler MIN, OF, 26.2 – Posted career bests in K% (15.7%), BB% (11.6%), FB% (46.2%), and exit velo (89.5 MPH/93.9 MPH FB/LD). Kepler already broke out but it didn’t show up in his surface stats last year.  2019 Projection: 86/24/71/.268/.350/.475/7

168) Max Muncy LAD, 1B/3B, 28.7 – I hope Muncy gets everyday playing time, but fear it will be a struggle for at-bats all year, with a lot of his damage coming from pinch hit appearances. 2019 Projection: 74/32/81/.248/.356/.521/3

169) Domingo Santana SEA, OF, 26.8 – Trade to Seattle opens up a full time job for him again. 32.8% K% and 27.7% FB% will make it hard to fully repeat his 2017 season. 2019 Projection: 76/25/74/.256/.338/.442/8

170) Didi Gregorius NYY, SS, 29.3 – Due to needing Tommy John surgery on his throwing elbow, 2019 very well might be a lost season for Didi even if he does make it back sometime in the 2nd half. 2019 Projection: 32/9/37/.265/.325/.450/3

171) Jesse Winker CIN, OF, 25.7 – Slashed .299/.397/.460 with 14 homers and a 70/64 K/BB in 136 career MLB games. Currently rehabbing from labrum surgery on his right shoulder in July, which doesn’t bode well for a homerun power outbreak next season, but it could still be in the cards for 2020. 2019 Projection: 60/10/50/.287/.384/.442/1 Prime Projection: 97/22/91/.303/.401/.490/1

172) Cedric Mullins BAL, OF, 24.6 – One of the most underrated talented youngsters to recently break into the majors.  The switch hitting Mullins is lightning fast with solid pop and has made good contact his entire career. Buy everywhere. 2019 Projection: 78/14/55/.265/.328/.419/19 Prime Projection: 87/18/61/.281/.342/.440/22

173) Willie Calhoun TEX, OF, 24.5 – Power outage last season and hasn’t been able to maintain elite K% in 145 MLB at-bats. I’m still buying the potentially unique contact/power profile and would not sell coming off a down year. 2019 Projection: 50/15/67/.261/.312/.443/2 Prime Projection: 81/30/94/.283/.339/.502/1

174) Nelson Cruz MIN, OF, 38.9 – Surface stats slipped a bit this year with a .256 BA and .850 OPS. Underlying stats still look good, but there were some back issues that popped up in 2018. 2019 Projection: 80/36/99/.268/.350/.517/1

175) Edwin Encarnacion SEA, 1B, 36.3 – Strikeout rate was trending in wrong direction for a few years now and reached a career high 22.8% in 2018. 2019 Projection: 83/35/101/.243/.338/.472/2

176) Scott Kingery PHI, SS, 24.11 – Segura trade clouds playing time, but don’t even think about selling low on Kingery. His rookie season was especially weak (.605 OPS) but he has the skill set to quickly become a coveted 5 category asset. 2019 Projection: 53/11/47/.252/.304/.406/10 Prime Projection: 87/20/72/.279/.332/.458/22

177) Christin Stewart DET, OF, 25.4 – Power and patience with a reasonable strikeout rate. Cut K% to 20.7% in Triple-A and then followed that up with an 18.7% K% in 72 MLB PA. Terrible defense is the only thing that can keep Stewart off the field. 2019 Projection: 74/27/88/.252/.339/.475/1 Prime Projection: 74/31/93/.251/.343/.485/1

178) Casey Mize DET, RHP, 21.11 – 1st overall pick in the draft. Absurd 156/18 K/BB in 114.2 IP in the SEC. Nasty splitter and plus control/command are his strengths. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 16/3.49/1.15/215 in 190 IP

179) Chris Paddack SD, RHP, 23.3 – Came back from Tommy John this season like he never left. Change-up is elite but will need to develop his curveball if he wants to dominate the majors like he did the minors.  ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 13/3.57/1.18/203 in 188 IP

180) Luis Garcia WASH, SS, 18.10 – Advanced, tooled-up 18-year-old who showed a good feel to hit in Full-A and Advanced-A. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 91/23/86/.292/.354/.477/15

181) Gavin Lux LAD, SS, 21.4 – Selected 20th overall in 2016, Lux had his breakout season this year, slashing .324/.399/.514 with 15 homers, 13 steals, and a 88/57 K/BB in 116 games split between High-A and Double-A. Me thinks Lux is still being a bit underrated right now. ETA: Late 2020 Prime Projection: 97/20/69/.275/.352/.450/17

182) Kristian Robinson ARI, OF, 18.4 – Signed for $2.55 million in 2017, Robinson has an elite power/speed combo and looks the part of a stud at an athletic 6’3”, 190 pounds. 26% K% split between two levels at rookie ball shows there is still plenty of development to go.  ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 86/28/95/.268/.355/.498/14

183) Yu Darvish CHC, RHP, 32.7 – Velocity being normal was the only silver lining from a disastrous year. Obvious bounceback candidate but I’m only buying if I can buy low. 2019 Projection: 12/3.69/1.22/182 in 160 IP

184) Jose Leclerc TEX, Closer, 25.3 – Perfect example of why you shouldn’t use major assets to acquire closers, even elite ones. No other position in fantasy is it easier to find guys who instantly become elite options at mid-season. 2019 Projection: 2/3.08/1.09/90/32 in 62 IP

185) Joey Lucchesi SD, LHP, 25.10 – Deceptive delivery. Throws a pitch he calls a “churve.” 2019 Projection: 10/3.85/1.28/178 in 172 IP

186) Daniel Murphy COL, 2B, 34.0 – Microfracture surgery on Murphy’s right knee in October 2017 made it almost inevitable that 2018 was not going to be a smooth ride. With a normal off-season this year and being further removed from that injury, a small bounceback is possible, especially at Coors. 2019 Projection: 88/22/82/.308/.351/.482/3

187) Ian Desmond COL, 1B/OF, 33.6 – Never got the Coors bump that many were hoping for, but as long as he keeps running he will have value in even the shallowest of leagues. 2019 Projection: 81/21/86/.259/.324/.447/16

188) Jon Gray COL, RHP, 27.5 – A couple pitchers finally broke out at Coors, but of course one of them wasn’t Gray. That would have been too easy. The skills are still there for it to happen in the future. 2019 Projection: 12/4.02/1.30/185 in 175 IP

189) Carlos Martinez STL, RHP, 27.6 – Shut down from throwing for 2 weeks because his shoulder is still not back to full strength. Had shoulder issues in 2018 and velocity was down about 2 MPH. Martinez’ stock is headed down. 2019 Projection: 8/3.59/1.26/130 in 130 IP

190) David Peralta ARI, OF, 31.8 – Career year with 30 homers but I would expect regression considering 23.4% HR/FB rate and 29.5% flyball percentage. 2019 Projection: 80/21/80/.284/.346/.471/6

191) Stephen Piscotty OAK, OF, 28.2 – Type of hitter who is exponentially more valuable in deeper leagues. If you are gunning for a championship in 10-12 team leagues, Piscotty will have to be one of your worst starters. 2019 Projection: 81/25/89/.272/.339/.476/3

192) Jose Quintana CHC, LHP, 29.6 – Followed up his 2017 strikeout break through by regressing back to career norms in 2018. 2019 Projection: 13/3.72/1.27/181 in 193 IP

193) Danny Jansen TOR, C, 24.0 – Excellent contact percentage-launch angle combo whose exit velocities don’t jump off the page but generates power with quality contact. Jansen could be one the better hitting catchers in short order. 2019 Projection: 51/15/59/.257/.345/.429/2 Prime Projection: 64/21/73/.273/.351/.463/6

194) Tyler Glasnow TB, RHP, 25.7 – The blazing fastball that made Glasnow such an alluring prospect was back in full force this season, averaging 97.3 MPH. With Tampa’s philosophy of fully tapping into the value of those tweener pitchers (not quite a starter but more than a one inning guy), Glasnow is in the perfect situation for him. 2019 Projection: 8/4.08/1.33/158 in 133 IP Prime Projection: 10/3.52/1.29/182 in 153 IP

195) Lance McCullers Jr. HOU, RHP, 25.6 – Tommy John surgery will keep McCullers out all of 2019. Changeup was starting to come around last year, with it being his most valuable pitch according to Fangraphs pitch values. 2019 Projection: OUT Prime Projection: 3.55/1.24/175 in 150 IP

196) Maikel Franco PHI, 3B, 26.7 – Career best 13.3% K% bodes well for Franco’s future, although he is going to have to start hitting the ball in the air a bit more to have that breakout season we are all waiting for. 2019 Projection: 70/25/80/.269/.317/.470/1

197) Vidal Brujan TB, 2B, 21.2 – 55 steals with a 68/63 K/BB in 122 games split between Full-A and Advanced-A. Tampa is stacked with 2B, so I wouldn’t be surprised if Brujan consistently had multi-position eligibility throughout his career. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 91/13/56/.283/.348/.419/33

198) Andres Gimenez NYM, SS, 20.7 – Short, quick, and powerful swing should lead to more homeruns as Gimenez gets stronger. Plus instincts on the base path makes his speed play up. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 92/17/66/.288/.343/.421/20

199) Sixto Sanchez MIA, RHP, 20.8 – Injury shortened season due to right elbow soreness, and also had to miss the AFL after a setback recovering from the same injury. Looking at Reyes, Honeywell, and Kopech, you almost have to factor in Tommy John surgery if you own Sanchez. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 14/3.42/1.07/188 in 182 IP

200) Ken Giles TOR, Closer, 28.6 – Punching himself in the face seemed to punch his ticket out of Houston. Stuff and underlying numbers point to a bounceback in 2018. 2019 Projection: 3/3.35/1.19/77/33 in 65 IP

201) Miguel Sano MIN, 3B, 25.11 – Career 36.3% K% does not lend much optimism for Sano’s future batting average. 2019 Projection: 63/25/75/.226/.312/.450/1

202) Dee Gordon SEA, 2B/OF, 30.11 – I never like extreme steals only guys on my roster, mostly because it limits your options on how to build the rest of your team. 2019 Projection: 77/3/34/.277/.310/.360/34

203) Dylan Cease CHW, RHP, 23.3 – 100 MPH fastball with a plus curveball. Will have to continue to improve changeup and command to reach ceiling. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 13/3.78/1.29/196 in 174 IP

204) Andrew McCutchen PHI, OF, 32.5 – Start of gradual decline started in 2016 but power/speed combo is still good enough to hold value for contending teams. 2019 Projection: 78/23/71/.260/.354/.458/12

205) Wilson Ramos NYM, C, 31.8 – It’s nice having a catcher who might actually help your average while also hitting for power. 2019 Projection: 51/18/67/.278/.329/.457/0

206) Corey Knebel MIL, RP, 27.4 – It’s a free for all in Milwaukee’s bullpen, but Knebel should get plenty of chances to close out games. 2019 Projection: 4/3.09/1.14/95/23 in 63 IP

207) Elvis Andrus TEX, SS, 30.7 – Fractured right elbow after getting hit by a 97 MPH fastball in early April sabotaged Andrus’ season from the get go. Sprint speeds have always been only slightly better than average (Schwarber had a faster sprint speed than Andrus in 2018), which concerns me as he enters his 30’s. 2019 Projection: 77/11/66/.273/.330/.399/17

208) Cesar Hernandez PHI, 2B, 28.11 – Hit the ball in the air considerably more in 2018, which backs up his moderate power outbreak.  2019 Projection: 86/14/55/.263/.357/.378/17

209) Marcus Semien OAK, SS, 28.6 – Moderate power/speed combo hitting atop an excellent lineup. 2019 Projection: 87/18/69/.255/.323/.412/14

210) Rick Porcello BOS, RHP, 30.3 – Steady as they come. Nothing flashy but is reliable. 2019 Projection: 14/4.14/1.25/182 in 193 IP

211) Nathan Eovaldi BOS, RHP, 29.3 – Returned from 2nd Tommy John surgery and pitched the best he ever has in his life with a career high 10.7% swinging strike rate. 97 MPH fastball is the main attraction, but is also what probably causes the particularly high injury risk. 2019 Projection: 12/3.88/1.28/151 in 165 IP

212) Alex Wood CIN, LHP, 28.3 – Fastball velocity dipped back below 90 MPH after an early season bump in 2017, although Wood has proved he can survive with lesser velocity. 2019 Projection: 11/3.74/1.23/151 in 160 IP

213) Chris Taylor LAD, SS/OF, 28.7 – Strikeout rate spiked to 29.5% in 2018 but also proved the newfound power was for real. 2019 Projection: 85/18/66/.257/.333/.450/14

214) Mike Moustakas MIL, 3B, 30.6 – Low average, low OBP slugger. 2019 Projection: 72/30/83/.253/.313/.480/3

215) Jonathan Schoop MIN, 2B, 27.6 – Average exit velocity hit career lows by a few MPH with a 86.2 MPH mark and 90.0 MPH on FB/LD. He suffered an oblique strain very early in the season, which are known to linger, so that may be part of the reason. A bounceback seems likely. 2019 Projection: 69/24/74/.266/.305/.462/1

216) Marco Gonzales SEA, LHP, 27.1 – Increased use and effectiveness of curveball along with adding a cutter was the reason for Gonzales’ breakout. I’m buying. 2019 Projection: 11/3.78/1.22/158 in 175 IP

217) Tyler Skaggs LAA, RHP, 27.9 – Groin injury caused Skaggs to get blown up in his last five starts, ruining his end of season numbers, which means he should come at a discount this off-season. 2019 Projection: 10/3.81/1.28/154 in 160 IP

218) Hunter Renfroe SD, OF, 27.2 – 97.4 MPH average exit velocity on FB/LD. The plate approach needs to continue to improve, but Renfroe can mash. 2019 Projection: 67/30/81/.249/.304/.493/4

219) Ketel Marte ARI, SS/2B, 25.6 – 13.7% K%, 9.3% BB%, 88.6 MPH average exit velocity, 92 MPH on FB/LD, and 28.7 ft/sec sprint speed. If he can start lifting the ball more and add some strength as he enters his mid to late 20’s, there is a 5-category stud lurking in here. Expected to be Arizona’s everyday CF. 2019 Projection: 83/16/69/.279/.345/.441/10

220) Jorge Polanco MIN, SS, 25.9 – Moderate power/speed combo with room for more as he enters prime. 2019 Projection: 78/16/76/.278/.336/.435/14

221) Luis Urias SD, SS/2B, 21.10 – Strikeout rate jumped to 20.5% at Triple-A but was very young for the level and power started to show up. Exit velocity readings in small MLB sample were strong. 2019 Projection: 69/10/50/.262/.328/.392/6 Prime Projection: 96/19/63/.293/.371/.469/8

222) Francisco Mejia SD, C/OF, 23.5 – No guarantee Mejia sticks at catcher, but the bat is special enough to profile anywhere. 2019 Projection: 31/9/27/.252/.300/.401/2 Prime Projection: 69/22/82/.278/.331/.456/4

223) Lourdes Gurriel Jr. TOR, 2B/SS, 25.6 – 90.3 average exit velocity shows talent, but will have to improve on his plate approach to fully tap into it. 2019 Projection: 64/17/69/.262/.301/.425/7 Prime Projection: 76/23/83/.277/.318/.455/9

224) Joe Musgrove PIT, RHP, 26.4 – Has so many different pitches that Musgrove is still tinkering around with them trying to find the best mix. If you like building with offense, Musgrove is a perfect pitcher to target in later rounds. 2019 Projection: 9/3.91/1.21/148 in 160 IP

225) Dallas Keuchel FA, LHP, 31.3 – Worst swinging strike rate of his career in 2018 (8.3%) other than his rookie season. 2019 Projection: 12/3.69/1.27/154 in 192 IP

226) Charlie Morton TB, RHP, 35.5 – He wants to pitch only a few more seasons in order to spend more time with his family. This two  year contract with Tampa could be it. 2019 Projection: 13/3.39/1.19/193 in 170 IP

227) Joey Wendle TB, 2B/3B, 28.11 – A little speed, a little pop, and makes good contact. Underlying statcast numbers are solid. Probably a bit underrated right now. 2019 Projection: 73/12/64/.277/.328/.411/14

228) Ross Stripling LAD, RHP, 29.4 – Nothing is more annoying than owning Dodgers pitchers in weekly lineup leagues. 2 start weeks turn into 1 start weeks, and 1 start weeks turn into demotion to the pen announcements on Monday night after lineups lock. I don’t know the role Stripling will pitch in, but I do think he will pitch well in it. 2019 Projection: 8/3.48/1.20/136 in 133 IP

229) Sean Newcomb ATL, LHP, 25.10 – 5 minutes of Google research tells me that Newcomb Ball is one of the few sports that was invented by a woman. Just thought that was interesting. As for Sean, who also happened to come from a woman, he is a rock solid young lefty, although with the overflowing number of arms in Atlanta, he won’t have a long leash. 2019 Projection: 10/3.97/1.35/175 in 170 IP Prime Projection: 9/3.73/1.29/162 in 160 IP

230) Andrew Heaney LAA, LHP, 27.10 – Control and command pitcher who generates whiffs with a plus changeup. 2019 Projection: 8/3.73/1.21/156 in 160 IP

231) Daz Cameron DET, OF, 22.2 – Similar body type and hitting profile as his father, Mike, who put up several monster 20/20 seasons in his prime, albeit with a low batting average and during the steroid era. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 88/18/63/.262/.340/.438/23

232) Clint Frazier NYY, OF, 24.7 – The hope is that Frazier’s concussion problems are in the past and he will be able to overtake Gardner on the Yankees depth chart. 2019 Projection: 36/9/32/.254/.323/.438/6 Prime Projection: 82/27/89/.272/.356/.482/13

233) Josh Hader MIL, do it all reliever, 26.0 – It’s a shame Hader may never be given a chance to start, but I do understand Milwaukee not wanting to mess with a good thing. 2019 Projection: 5/2.57/0.92/129/13 in 78 IP

234) Bradley Zimmer CLE, OF, 26.4 – Arthroscopic surgery on Zimmer’s right shoulder will likely keep him out to start the season, although his rehab has gone well. Considering all of the problem his brother Kyle has had with injuries, you gotta feel for that family. 2019 Projection: 49/8/41/.236/.304/.380/15 Prime Projection: 87/21/72/.253/.337/.431/24

235) Jeff McNeil NYM, 2B, 27.0 – 9.7% K% and 38.7% GB% in 63 game MLB debut is a recipe for success, although he does not hit the ball all that hard (85.2 MPH avg. exit velo and 90.1 MPH on FB/LD). Should see playing time all over the field, but if he was locked in a starting role, I would rank him much higher. 2019 Projection: 78/15/51/.286/.342/.457/10

236) Raimel Tapia COL, OF, 25.2 – Murphy signing likely keeps Tapia in a bench role for now. Has a chance to be a 5 category stud if he does win a full time job. 2019 Projection: 43/8/39/.282/.325/.431/10 Prime Projection: 91/16/68/.296/.343/.455/20

237) Josh James HOU, RHP, 26.1 – In perhaps the greatest testament to getting a good night sleep, James was cured of his sleep apnea and woke up with a 97.5 MPH fastball. He is now a strikeout machine, striking out 171 batters in 114.1 Triple-A innings and 38 batters in 21.2 big league innings. 2019 Projection: 8/3.91/1.28/128 in 110 IP Prime Projection: 15/3.63/1.28/200 in 180 IP

238) Jeter Downs LAD, SS, 20.8 – Selected 32nd overall in the 2017 draft, Downs full season debut was a smashing success, displaying a plus plate approach, plus base stealing ability, and a 50.4% FB%. He has the tools to be an absolute fantasy stud. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 88/23/77/.271/.355/.468/18

239) Jake Bauers CLE, OF/1B, 23.6 – Patient hitter with moderate power/speed combo. 2019 Projection: 68/16/63/.240/.336/.403/9 Prime Projection: 85/21/74/.271/.368/.451/13

240) Sean Doolittle WASH, Closer, 32.6 – Oft-injured closer who dominates when on the mound. 2019 Projection: 3/2.88/0.96/65/27 in 55 IP

241) Wade Davis COL, Closer, 33.7 – That huge contract locks him into the closer role, but age and Coors ensures it will not be a completely smooth ride. 2019 Projection: 3/3.61/1.17/72/37 in 63 IP

242) Yasmani Grandal MIL, C, 30.5 – Low average, power, and patience catcher. Couldn’t have landed in better situation than Milwaukee. 2019 Projection: 58/23/64/.240/.336/.461/1

243) Robinson Cano NYM, 2B, 36.5 – Came back from an 80 game suspension and performed no different than before. Has any player in the last few years come back from a PED suspension and perform markedly worse? 2019 Projection: 79/25/90/.289/.350/.468/1

244) Victor Victor Mesa MIA, OF, 22.8 – Speed is the only sure thing, but power should continue to develop and he rarely struck out in Cuba. ETA: Mid 2020 Prime Projection: 88/14/71/.277/.334/.436/24

245) Dansby Swanson ATL, SS, 25.2 – From overrated to underrated. Still projects for solid 5 category production at peak. 2019 Projection: 68/15/66/.258/.329/.405/13 Prime Projection: 90/18/63/.278/.353/.435/16

246) Lewis Brinson MIA, OF, 24.11 – Brutal season gave off Byron Buxton-like vibes, but like Buxton, the talent is too good to write off. 2019 Projection: 58/17/61/.231/.282/.399/7 Prime Projection: 77/27/86/.252/.324/.471/15

247) Jarred Kelenic SEA, OF, 19.8 – Advanced for his age plate approach with above average all around tools. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 89/24/81/.278/.352/.477/16

248) Triston McKenzie CLE, RHP, 21.8 – High spin rates and excellent extension makes McKenzie a pain to hit against. Obligatory mention of his super thin frame. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 13/3.38/1.14/188 in 176 IP

249) Alex Verdugo LAD, OF, 22.11 – Could have a Daniel Murphy like career path, unlocking power later in career. 2019 Projection: 35/7/34/.273/.335/.415/4 Prime Projection: 84/18/82/.285/.351/.447/9

250) Corbin Burnes MIL, RHP, 24.5 – Will enter camp competing for a starting role in 2019. Big, hard throwing righty with plus spin rates. Showed excellent ability to miss bats in 2018 debut as a relief pitcher. 2019 Projection: 6/3.94/1.27/110 in 120 IP Prime Projection: 13/3.61/1.18/175 in 180 IP

251) Ian Anderson ATL, RHP, 20.11 – Continued to rack up strikeouts with 142 K’s in 119.1 IP. 19 of those strikeouts came in his final two dominating starts of the season at Double-A. ETA: Late 2020 Prime Projection: 15/3.45/1.20/210 in 190 IP

252) A.J. Puk OAK, LHP, 23.11 – Tommy John surgery in April probably keeps Puk from being a Major League option until later in the year. When healthy, he has an unhittable fastball/slider combo that plays up even more because of how much extension he gets from his 6’7” frame. One of the more uncomfortable at-bats in the minors. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 15/3.42/1.26/214 in 186 IP

253) Mike Soroka ATL, RHP, 21.8 – Stuff plays up because of plus command, control, and advanced feel for the art of pitching. Feb. 22 Update: Shoulder discomfort popped up again and is shut down from throwing for 4-5 days. ETA: Mid 2019 Prime Projection: 13/3.49/1.12/170 in 182 IP

254) Cody Allen LAA, Closer, 30.4 – Imploded in 2018 with a 4.70 ERA and 1.36 WHIP. Velocity was also at a career low. 2019 Projection: 4/3.80/1.23/78/30 in 65 IP

255) Adam Eaton WASH, OF, 30.4 – Came back from ACL and meniscus tears in left knee only to injure his ankle almost immediately, which required arthroscopic surgery. When Eaton did finally get healthy, he looked more or less like himself, albeit with less power.  2019 Projection: 81/12/51/.285/.361/.418/11

256) Raisel Iglesias CIN, Closer, 29.3 – Cincinnati’s manager announced Iglesias with be used in a variety of roles in 2019. I still think he will receive the bulk of the saves, but it will certainly eat into his value. 2019 Projection: 3/3.05/1.12/85/22 in 73 IP

257) David Robertson PHI, Closer/Setup, 34.0 – The Phillies are flexible with their bullpen, so Robertson and Dominguez should both receive save chances, but my bet is on the highly paid veteran being used most of the time. 2019 Projection: 5/3.10/1.09/81/25 in 65 IP

258) Andrew Miller STL, Setup, 33.11 – While Jordan Hicks is talented, he is still unproven and under team control, so Miller could easily find himself as the primary closer. 2019 Projection: 5/3.06/1.08/86/18 in 65 IP

259) Kirby Yates SD, Closer, 32.0 – Major risk of being traded out of closer role mid-season. 2019 Projection: 4/3.08/1.02/86/23 in 62 IP

260) Will Smith SF, Closer, 29.9 – Returned from Tommy John looking as good as new, although his fastball was down about 1 MPH from where it sat pre-injury. 2019 Projection: 3/3.01/1.16/77/30 in 61 IP

261) Mychal Givens BAL, Closer, 28.11 – Front runner to close in Baltimore. Hard throwing, flyball pitcher with the ability to miss bats.  2019 Projection: 3/3.56/1.22/75/26 in 71 IP

262) Hyun-jin Ryu LAD, LHP, 32.0 – Accepted the $17.9 million qualifying offer. I’m assuming that if the Dodgers were willing to pay him that much money, his spot in the rotation is safe. 2019 Projection: 10/3.44/1.18/139 in 148 IP

263) Cole Hamels CHC, LHP, 35.3 – Resurrected with the Cubs, putting up a line of 2.36/1.10/74/23 in 76.1 IP which coincided with his velocity ticking up. Was he simply mailing it in with Texas the past few years?  2019 Projection: 13/3.72/1.23/178 in 185 IP

264) J.A. Happ NYY, LHP, 36.5 – Career high 26.3% K% and also a career high 1.37 HR/9 due to leaning heavier on his 4 seamer than his sinker. Happ is just evolving with the times. 2019 Projection: 13/3.71/1.24/184 in 185 IP

265) Jake Lamb ARI, 3B, 28.6 – Underwent shoulder surgery in August but is expected to be ready by Spring Training. Assuming full health he should get back to his low average, power hitting ways. 2019 Projection: 74/25/84/.246/.338/.456/3

266) Steven Souza Jr. ARI, OF, 29.11 – Pectoral injury sank Souza’s 2018 but the power and speed are still there for a bounceback 2019. 2019 Projection: 67/21/71/.236/.332/.429/10

267) Jorge Soler KC, OF, 27.1 – Fractured toe ended what was shaping up to be a breakout season for Soler, slashing .265/.354/.466 with 9 homers and 3 steals in 61 games. He’s got above average speed and hits the ball hard. A great candidate for a late 20’s breakout. 2019 Projection: 71/21/77/.254/.345/.448/8

268) Austin Riley ATL, 3B, 22.0 – Donaldson signing hurts Riley’s chances of getting MLB at-bats in 2018, but long term outlook doesn’t change. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 79/29/93/.262/.332/.485/2

269) Jesus Sanchez TB, OF, 21.6 – Aggressive hitter with a good feel to hit and plus raw power. ETA: Mid 2020 Prime Projection: 78/25/83/.276/.332/.478/9

270) Tyler White HOU, 1B, 28.5 – Solid plate approach with plus power. Houston is bubbling over with talent, so White will have to earn his playing time every step of the way.  2019 Projection: 60/20/73/.262/.338/.459/2

271) Luke Voit NYY, 1B, 28.2 – Has the inside track for Yanks starting 1B job after scorching hot finish to the season. Led the league with a 12.4% barrels per plate appearance percentage.  2019 Projection: 64/25/76/.260/.340/.483/1

272) Yusniel Diaz BAL, OF, 22.6 – Projected to be a solid all around fantasy contributor. Has shown some beastly power in Spring Training. ETA: Mid 2019 Prime Projection: 87/26/88/.276/.345/.481/10

273) Ryan O’Hearn KC, 1B, 25.8 – 91.4 MPH average exit velocity, 95.6 MPH LD/FB average exit velocity, and a 46.2% FB%. This man is going to hit homers if he can even come close to keeping up those underlying power numbers. 2019 Projection: 66/24/73/.243/.321/.443/1 

274) Teoscar Hernandez TOR, OF, 26.6 – Statcast darling with a 28.6 ft/sec sprint speed, 91.8 average exit velocity and 97.7 FB/LD average exit velocity. 2019 Projection: 73/24/71/.240/.304/.463/8

275) Nathaniel Lowe TB, 1B, 23.9 – Major power breakout in 2018 which is backed up by changes in his swing and conditioning. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 79/28/86/.272/.348/.486/1

276) Drew Waters ATL, OF, 20.3 – Still raw but a potential 5-category stud. Stood out in his full season debut, slashing .303/.353/.513 with 9 homers, 20 steals, and a 72/21 K/BB in 84 games at Full-A before being promoted to High-A, where he inevitably struggled. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 86/21/84/.278/.335/.474/20

277) George Valera CLE, OF, 18.5 – Prodigy type hitter in the mold of a Juan Soto. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 88/23/88/.291/.365/.493/9

278) Nick Madrigal CHW, 2B, 22.1 – Reminds me of Jose Peraza. Doesn’t have enough power for elite upside, but is a sure bet for average and steals. ETA: Late 2020 Prime Projection: 95/11/66/.296/.351/.418/27

279) Keibert Ruiz LAD, C, 20.8 – 8% K% as a 19/20 year old in Double-A. ETA: Late 2020 Prime Projection: 64/21/72/.283/.341/.469/0

280) Orlando Arcia MIL, SS, 24.8 – Regressed last season but development is not always linear. Still young with a moderate power/speed combo. Good defense at SS should keep him on the field. 2019 Projection: 58/10/49/.257/.303/.382/14 Prime Projection: 78/15/73/.276/.325/.420/18

281) Jazz Chisholm ARI, SS, 21.2 – Jazz has a loose and explosive left handed swing with above average power and speed. Consistently high strikeout rates in his 3 year career (32.5% at High-A in 2018) makes him high risk. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 82/23/76/.241/.313/.438/16

282) Trevor Larnach MIN, OF, 22.1 – Major power breakout in his 3rd year in the Pac12, which Larnach carried over to full season pro ball, slashing .297/.373/.505. ETA: Late 2020 Prime Projection: 78/26/87/.263/.347/.483/2

283) Xavier Edwards SD, SS, 19.8 – Prototypical leadoff hitter with a high batting average, OBP, and elite speed. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 103/10/56/.291/.366/.401/36

284) Seth Beer HOU, 1B/OF, 22.7 – Power and patience without a ton of strikeouts. Defense is bad in the OF and at 1B, so playing time could be a battle. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 68/30/81/.268/.342/.480/1

285) Eric Hosmer SD, 1B, 29.5 – Strikeout rate spiked to a career worst 21% to go along with a career worst 60.4% groundball rate. 2019 Projection: 77/22/74/.270/.340/.438/6

286) Josh Bell PIT, 1B, 26.8 – Strong plate approach (17.8% K%/13.2% BB%) and hits the ball hard (94.1 MPH FB/LD avg. exti velo), but 48.5% groundball percentage is preventing Bell from unleashing his full potential. 2019 Projection: 76/18/78/.267/.356/.444/2

287) Reynaldo Lopez CHW, RHP, 25.3 – Slider has become his best secondary pitch, throwing it 18% of the time and leaning on it heavily with runners on base. His 95.5 MPH fastball is still what brings home the bacon, er, I mean, brings home the bagels. 2019 Projection: 9/4.27/1.30/158 in 180 IP

288) Franmil Reyes SD, OF, 23.9 – Suffered torn meniscus in right knee during winter ball, but should be good to go by Spring. High exit velocity, low launch angle power hitter. Profile will help with batting average, but is very exposed to HR/FB rate fluctuations. 2019 Projections: 44/19/56/.256/.327/.461/2 Prime Projection: 73/30/91/.265/.335/.490/5

289) Scott Schebler CIN, OF, 28.6 – Hits it hard (94.1 MPH FB/LD average exit velocity) but hits it on the ground too often (8.6 degree launch angle). 2019 Projection: 67/26/64/.252/.333/.460/5

290) Jackie Bradley Jr. BOS, OF, 29.0 – Statcast loves him with a 91.9 average exit velocity and 96.4 FB/LD average exit velocity. The skills are there to put up better numbers than he has the past two years. 2019 Projection: 80/20/69/.250/.330/.428/12

291) Randal Grichuk TOR, OF, 27.8 – Poor plate approach slugger. 2019 Projection: 61/24/65/.242/.300/.490/4

292) Michael Chavis BOS, 3B, 23.8 – Lightening quick bat with plus power and mediocre plate approach. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 72/28/88/.254/.328/.476/5

293) Cristian Pache ATL, OF, 20.5 – Classic tooled up, very young for level, don’t scout the statline high ceiling prospect. Started to tap into his power potential by hitting the first 8 homers of his MiLB career this season. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 83/19/76/.265/.328/.442/24

294) Hunter Greene CIN, RHP, 19.8 – Rehabbing a sprained UCL this off-season. 100+ MPH fastball led to 89 strikeouts in 68.1 IP full season debut, but as expected is still very raw. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 16/3.32/1.10/220 in 190 IP

295) Luis Garcia PHI, SS, 18.6 – Signed for $2.5 million in 2017. Slashed .369/.433/.488 with 1 homer, 12 steals, a 11.2% K% and 8% BB% in 43 games in the GCL as a 17-year-old. This could be a special talent that explodes up prospect lists in the near future. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 88/18/73/.278/.353/.449/16

296) Kenta Maeda LAD, RHP, 31.0 – Roberts announced Maeda will work as a starter in 2019, but with how LA juggles their pitching staff, who knows how many starts he will get. 2019 Projection: 6/3.65/1.19/138 in 130 IP

297) Kevin Gausman ATL, RHP, 28.3 – Finally got out of Baltimore and the AL East and immediately thrived, putting up a pitching line of 2.87/1.14/44/18 in 59.2 IP for Atlanta. Some of that was due to BABIP luck and his fastball velocity declined for the 3rd year in a row to 94.1 MPH (still more than enough), so those numbers are probably a bit of a mirage. 2019 Projection: 10/4.00/1.29/176 in 185 IP

298) Kyle Freeland COL, LHP, 25.11 – Doesn’t have big velocity, doesn’t strike many guys out, and pitches half his games at Coors. On the plus side, he is young, he keeps the ball in the yard, and consistently induces weak contact. 2019 Projection: 10/4.05/1.33/162 in 190 IP

299) Yadier Molina STL, C, 36.9 – Late career power surge is for real as Molina is hitting it hard and in the air, while maintaining his excellent strikeout rates. 2019 Projection: 56/18/72/.270/.322/.434/4

300) Collin McHugh HOU, RHP, 31.9 – Stuff played up in the bullpen and struck out 94 batters in 72.1 IP. His swinging strike rate was also up in 2017 when he was starting. McHugh has some sneaky, underrated upside. 2019 Projection: 10/3.91/1.24/152 in 160 IP

301) Steven Matz NYM, LHP, 27.10 – Can’t count on innings but is a solid pitcher when on the mound. 2019 Projection: 9/3.83/1.26/155 in 160 IP

302) Zack Godley ARI, RHP, 28.11 – Disappointing follow up to his 2017 breakout, but he wasn’t quite as bad as his 4.74 ERA would indicate. 2019 Projection: 12/3.97/1.34/190 in 180 IP

303) Jimmy Nelson MIL, RHP, 29.10 – Didn’t recover from shoulder surgery as quickly as expected and missed all of 2018. Your guess is as good as mine if he will be able to return to full health. 2019 Projection: 9/3.93/1.30/156 in 160 IP

304) Eduardo Escobar ARI, 3B/SS, 30.3 – Career high 8.2% walk rate is evidence of real improvements made in Escobar’s 2018 breakout. 2019 Projection: 74/22/83/.266/.323/.455/2

305) Luke Weaver ARI, RHP, 25.7 – Silver lining to a disastrous season is that fastball velocity was up about 1 MPH to 94.3 MPH. Trade to Arizona gives him a guaranteed rotation spot. 2019 Projection: 9/4.23/1.33/166 in 170 IP Prime Projection: 13/3.71/1.26/180 in 180 IP

306) Mitch Keller PIT, RHP, 23.0 – Easy mid 90’s sinking fastball but still needs to work on locating curveball and gaining consistency with changeup. 2019 Projection: 4/4.31/1.38/46 in 58 IP Prime Projection: 14/3.54/1.20/185 in 185 IP

307) Bubba Thompson TEX, OF, 20.10 – Excellent full season debut, slashing .289/.344/.446 with 8 homers, 32 steals and a 104/23 K/BB in 84 games. Elite athlete but still raw at the plate. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 83/17/72/.262/.318/.420/28

308) Nico Hoerner CHC, SS, 21.11 – Selected 24th overall in the 2018 draft, Hoerner posted elite contact rates at Stanford, and then continued that success in pro ball and the AFL. He hit only 3 homers in his entire 3 year college career, but his elite bat speed should generate more power as he matures. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 88/15/63/.281/.363/.426/18

309) Carlos Rodon CHW, LHP, 26.4 – Came back mid-season from arthroscopic shoulder surgery, and while velocity was ok, swinging strike rate was lowest of career at 9.1%. 2019 Projection: 8/4.12/1.35/143 in 150 IP

310) Touki Toussaint ATL, RHP, 22.9 – A win for all the “don’t scout the statline” drum beaters out there, Toussaint began to turn great stuff into results in 2018. I don’t foresee completely clear sailing ahead, and there is still bullpen risk, but it was a big step in the right direction. 2019 Projection: 6/4.23/1.38/103 in 100 IP Prime Projection: 14/3.81/1.31/186 in 180 IP

311) Matt Manning DET, RHP, 21.3 – Needs to add a few MPH to the fastball and/or improve control/command to be a top of the rotation starter, but he will be a high strikeout guy even if he doesn’t hit his ceiling.  ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 15/3.61/1.27/215 in 190 IP

312) Ke’Bryan Hayes PIT, 3B, 22.2 – Son of Yankees hero Charlie Hayes, Ke’Bryan is a much better athlete and much better prospect in general. He has an excellent plate approach and makes hard contact, but it has not yet translated into big homerun totals. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 86/18/75/.279/.362/.443/14

313) Miguel Cabrera DET, 1B, 35.11 – The cliff came abruptly for Cabrera, but the underlying stats show there could still be a dead cat bounce year in him. 2019 Projection: 68/24/81/.286/.374/.477/0

314) Ryan Braun MIL, OF, 35.5 – 5.8 degree launch angle but absolutely crushes the ball with a 91.9 avg exit velocity and 97.4 FB/LD avg exit velocity. 2019 Projection: 63/20/66/.263/.328/.472/10

315) Buster Posey SF, C, 32.0 – Underwent hip surgery at the end of August, with a 6-8 month recovery timetable. Major injuries like this that bleed into the start of the next season completely sabotages the year before it even begins. 2019 Projection: 58/10/66/.288/.361/.417/2

316) Salvador Perez KC, C, 28.11 – Free swinging, power hitting catcher. Update: Tommy John surgery will keep Perez out for all of 2019. 2019 Projection: OUT

317) Justin Smoak TOR, 1B, 32.4 – Took a step back from his 2017 breakout, with his strikeout rate jumping 6.2% to 26.3% and groundball rate jumping 5.2% to 39.5%.  2019 Projection: 73/27/83/.248/.346/.467/0

318) Carlos Santana CLE, 1B, 33.0 – One of those guys without a career arc. A consistent power and walk machine from the second he stepped into the league. 2019 Projection: 84/25/79/.253/.357/.448/4

319) Mike Zunino TB, C, 28.0 – Strikeout rate is actually getting worse, hitting a career high 37% in 2018. 2019 Projection: 46/22/53/.205/.281/.436/0

320) Jorge Alfaro MIA, C, 25.10 – Horrible plate approach (36.6% K%/4.8% BB%) and needs to lift the ball more (29% FB%), but 91.6 MPH average exit velocity shows the potential if he can improve in either area. 2019 Projection: 41/14/54/.244/.297/.401/2 Prime Projection: 53/20/66/.257/.311/.436/3

321) Kevin Kiermaier TB, OF, 28.11 – Hasn’t been able to stay healthy, but being one of the best defensive centerfielders in the league will keep him in the lineup when he is.  2019 Projection: 68/14/47/.248/.319/.418/16

322) Estevan Florial NYY, OF, 21.6 – Elite ceiling but risk is still sky high. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 88/23/75/.252/.344/.451/21

323) Jeimer Candelario DET, 3B, 25.4 – 25.8% K rate and slightly below average exit velocity should both improve with age/experience, but ceiling is more solid than spectacular. 2019 Projection: 78/20/65/.240/.325/.420/4 Prime Projection: 75/23/86/.258/.338/.449/4

324) Isaac Paredes DET, SS, 20.1 – Slashed .321/.406/.458 with 3 homers and a 22/19 K/BB in his 39 game debut at Double-A as a 19-year-old. Precocious hitter, but doesn’t have huge power and speed is below average. ETA: 2020/21 Prime Projection: 83/20/78/.291/.372/.468/3

325) Nolan Jones CLE, 3B, 20.11 – Power started to emerge with 19 homers split between Full-A and Advanced-A. Will always strikeout, but more than makes up for it with elite walk rates (17.1%). ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 82/28/86/.253/.367/.485/2

326) Joey Bart SF, C, 22.3 – Selected 2nd overall in the 2018 draft, Bart is a power hitting catcher with an aggressive approach. Surface stats were great in pro debut, but you should take stats from college hitters in short season ball with a grain of salt, and a 19.7% K% and 50.7% GB% aren’t that great. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 65/23/78/.252/.328/.463/3

327) Travis Swaggerty PIT, OF, 21.9 – Selected 10th overall in the 2018 draft, Swaggerty is an all category producer who has considerable upside if it all comes together. Strikeout percentage jumped to over 25% when he debuted in pro ball at Short Season-A and Full-A, so he is not as much of a finished product as other recent college bats who went in the top 10. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 87/18/72/.274/.338/.431/23

328) Yoenis Cespedes NYM, OF, 33.5 – Surgery on both heels will keep Cespedes out for a large portion of 2019. Strikeout rate jumped to 31.8% in 157 PA. 2019 Projection: 29/9/34/.267/.332/.486/1

329) Alex Colome CHW, Closer, 30.3 – Colome dominates with a mid 90’s fastball and cutter. Rumors have him as the favorite for saves in Chicago. 2019 Projection: 4/3.31/1.18/65/28 in 65 IP

330) Brandon Morrow CHC, Closer, 34.8 – Missed the 2nd half of 2018 with an elbow injury that required surgery in November, which could affect his availability to start the season. 2019 Projection: 3/3.22/1.14/56/26 in 50 IP

331) Danny Salazar CLE, RHP, 29.3 – Underwent arthroscopic shoulder surgery in July 2018. Rehab should take him right up to Opening Day. Cleveland has a full rotation, but Salazar could be the next man up assuming he fully recovers. 2019 Projection: 5/3.88/1.32/100 in 83 IP

332) Marcus Stroman TOR, RHP, 27.11 – Former young stud who was never able to take that next step. Stuff is still there so a late career breakout is within reach. 2019 Projection: 10/3.90/1.30/152 in 185 IP

333) Jon Lester CHC, LHP, 35.3 – K% dropped 4% to 19.6%. Lester is long past his prime, but we have already seen he can survive with diminished stuff. 2019 Projection: 13/3.86/1.29/167 in 184 IP

334) Jake Arrieta PHI, RHP, 33.1 – K% on a 4 year decline, sitting at 19.1% in 2018. 2019 Projection: 12/3.83/1.27/158 in 175 IP

335) Rich Hill LAD, LHP, 39.1 – Can’t count on him to be a mainstay in your rotation, but when Hill gets hot he can carry your staff for a month+. 2019 Projection: 11/3.52/1.11/160 in 137 IP

336) Anibal Sanchez WASH, RHP, 35.1 – Adding a cutter propelled Sanchez to a dominant season, putting up a pitching line of 2.83/1.08/135/42 in 136.2 IP. We’ve seen with Rich Hill and Charlie Morton in the recent past that you shouldn’t completely ignore these out of nowhere mid 30’s pitching breakouts. 2019 Projection: 10/3.71/1.26/138 in 140 IP

337) Dinelson Lamet SD, RHP, 26.8 – Tommy John surgery last April will keep Lamet out for at least a couple months in 2019. Two pitch pitcher who racks up strikeouts but will have to develop a third pitch to reach full potential 2019 Projection: 5/4.11/1.31/90 in 78 IP Prime Projection: 12/3.76/1.27/192 in 168 IP

338) Addison Russell CHC, SS, 25.2 – Even real baseball teams have a hard time valuing players you simply don’t want to root for. Just look at the robbery Cashman pulled on the Reds for Aroldis Chapman. Russell is suspended for the first month of the season and considering the lackluster career numbers, it is really hard to get excited to own the still young and talented former top prospect. 2019 Projection: 50/10/40/.248/.324/.401/3 Prime Projection: 89/24/83/.268/.347/.458/7

339) Corey Ray MIL, OF, 24.6 – Beastly power-speed combo (27 homers and 37 steals at Double-A) with a beastly strikeout rate (29.3%). ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 78/21/71/.238/.318/.445/26

340) Brendan McKay TB, LHP, 23.3 – Two way player but it is now clear his future will be on the mound. Plus control/command is best skill, which helps all of his pitches (fastball, cutter, curveball, changeup) play up. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 14/3.68/1.17/189 in 183 IP

341) Kyle Wright ATL, RHP, 23.6 – Likely mid-rotation starter if he can tighten up command and develop changeup. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 14/3.69/1.24/180 in 180 IP

342) Justus Sheffield SEA, LHP, 22.10 – Great stuff, but with a high effort delivery and lacks command. Trade to Seattle opens up playing time and gives him a much longer leash to develop at the Major League level. 2019 Projection: 7/4.36/1.38/109 in 120 IP Prime Projection: 11/3.66/1.28/174 in 180 IP

343) Griffin Canning LAA, RHP, 22.11 – Selected 47th overall in the 2017 draft, Canning’s stuff ticked up in pro ball, with his fastball sitting mid 90’s to go along with an above average slider and curveball. He made it all the way to Triple-A in his first full professional season, and is knocking on the door of the bigs. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 13/3.68/1.23/182 in 177 IP

344) Blake Parker MIN, Closer, 33.10 – Favorite for saves in Minnesota, although it is far from a guarantee. Velocity was down over 1 MPH on all of his pitches in 2018. 2019 Projection: 3/3.59/1.23/72/25 in 65 IP

345) Andrelton Simmons LAA, SS, 29.7 – Low risk, low reward 5 category production. 2019 Projection: 71/12/71/.284/.332/.419/11

346) Ryan McMahon COl, 3B/2B/1B, 24.4 – If not for Coors I might have ranked McMahon 100 spots lower, but you just don’t pass up on young talented hitters playing half their games in that hitting atmosphere … even if the Rockies do love to play their vets. 2019 Projection: 43/10/48/.260/.320/.430/2 Prime Projection: 84/26/96/.275/.348/.480/2

347) Colton Welker COL, 3B, 21.6 – Potential for plus hit and plus power, especially at Coors, but he has played in hitter’s ballparks throughout his minor league career and it’s like pulling teeth to get Colorado to give prospects a full time job. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 77/23/84/.272/.338/470/5

348) Arodys Vizcaino ATL, Closer, 28.4 – Grip on closer job is tenuous and had trouble with his shoulder last season. 2019 Projection: 3/3.41/1.21/64/25 in 60 IP

349) Jose Alvarado TB, Closer, 23.11 – Tampa’s current closer, although Tampa doesn’t adhere to traditional bullpen roles, so who knows how many save chances he will get. 2019 Projection: 3/3.11/1.16/80/22 in 65 IP

350) Jahmai Jones LAA, 2B, 21.8 – Solid power/speed combo with a good feel to hit. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 93/17/78/.278/.346/.439/23

351) Alec Bohm PHI, 3B, 22.8 – 3rd overall pick in the 2018 draft. A poor pro debut (.224/.314/.290 with 0 homers in 107 at-bats at short season A ball) has curbed some of the hype, but Bohm has displayed a plus hit, plus power profile all three years at Wichita State and in the Cape Cod League. ETA: 2020/21 Prime Projection: 77/25/92/.278/.346/.477/4

352) Tyler Nevin COL, 1B/3B, 21.10 – Played out of his mind in the Arizona Fall League, slashing .426/.535/.593 with a 5/15 K/BB and 0 homers in 17 games. Hit tool is what has stood out in his careers so far, but built like his father, Phil Nevin, at 6’4”, 200 pounds, more power is coming. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 79/25/91/.277/.348/.485/5

353) Sonny Gray CIN, RHP, 29.5 – With the trade to Cincinnati, Gray should be in line for a bounce back season. It’s a hitter’s ballpark, but he won’t have to face a DH for the first time in his career. 2019 Projection: 9/3.89/1.28/151 in 165 IP

354) Corey Dickerson PIT, OF, 29.10 – Cut K% to career best 15%, but BB% went with it, posting a career worst 3.9% mark.  2019 Projection: 69/20/67/.285/.320/.470/6

355) Adam Jones BAL, OF, 33.8 – Career best 15.2% K% but a career low 8.4% HR/FB rate prevented Jones from capitalizing on it. 2019 Projection: 69/21/73/.275/.310/.434/3

356) Matthew Boyd DET, LHP, 28.2 – Post all star break pitching line of 3.88/1.08/72 in 72 IP, which coincided with an uptick in velocity. 2019 Projection: 9/4.13/1.33/163 in 170 IP’

357) Michael Wacha STL, RHP, 27.9 – Severe oblique strain ended Wacha’s season in late June. Doesn’t rack up strikeouts, but has been a rock solid mid-rotation starter who is now entering his prime.. 2019 Projection: 10/3.83/1.29/138 in 150 IP

358) Sean Manaea OAK, LHP, 27.2 – Surgery to repair a torn labrum and correct an impingement in Manaea’s shoulder could keep him out for most of 2019. 2019 Projection: 5/4.06/1.27/40 in 55 IP Prime Projection: 13/3.65/1.20/166 in 180 IP

359) Franchy Cordero SD, OF, 24.7 – Statcast beast with double plus exit velocity and sprint speed, but doesn’t lift the ball enough and has a very raw plate approach. 2019 Projection: 48/11/43/.243/.306/.420/10 Prime Projection: 77/19/68/.251/.319/.442/17

360) Yonder Alonso CHW, 1B, 32.0 – Partially regressed from his flyball induced 2017 breakout. Groundball percentage was up from 33.9% to 38.3% and average exit velocity was down from 89.2 MPH to 87.7 MPH 2019 Projection: 67/23/72/.253/.329/.430/1

361) Ryan Zimmerman WASH, 1B, 34.6 – 5th overall in barrels per plate appearance, and put up his best K% (17%) and BB% (9.3%) since 2014. 2019 Projection: 63/21/78/.271/.339/.488/1

362) Billy Hamilton KC, OF, 28.7 – If you could only steal 1B … 2019 Projection: 68/4/33/.244/.297/.333/44

363) Kyle Seager SEA, 3B, 31.5 – Career worst K% (21.9%) and BB% (6%) are not good signs as Seager gets deeper into his 30’s. 2019 Projection: 56/16/64/.251/.318/.433/1

364) Trey Mancini BAL, 1B/OF, 27.0 – Hits the ball hard (95 MPH FB/LD avg. exit velo) but a poor plate approach (24.1% K%/6.9% BB%) combined with a heavy groundball rate (54.6% GB%) is not an easy profile to buy into. 2019 Projection: 67/23/71/.257/.311/.436/1

365) Joc Pederson LAD, OF, 26.11 – The Dodgers extreme depth is great for real life, but a pain for fantasy. Although, considering Pederson slashed .170/.211/.302 vs lefties, maybe it is better off. 2019 Projection: 63/24/59/.253/.340/.492/4

366) Odubel Herrera PHI, OF, 27.3 – Statcast is not a fan. Below average speed and exit velocity in 2018. 2019 Projection: 65/17/67/.268/.324/.428/6

367) Franklin Barreto OAK, Utility, 23.1 – Expected to fill a utility role this season. Barreto has above average speed, hits the ball hard and hits it in the air, but extremely raw plate approach will have to improve before Oakland gives him a full time job. 2019 Projection: 42/10/39/.241/.298/.418/6 Prime Projection: 77/23/84/.253/.318/.452/14

368) Jordyn Adams LAA, OF, 19.5 – Selected 17th overall in the 2018 draft, Adams was a two sport star in high school (outfield and wide receiver). He has plus raw power and double plus speed, but is obviously still very raw. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 86/18/75/.250/.340/.439/28

369) Julio Pablo Martinez TEX, OF, 23.0 – Signed with Texas for $2.8 million in March 2018. Patience, power, and speed with some swing and miss. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 85/16/65/.255/.342/.418/21

370) Wander Javier MIN, SS, 20.3 –Missed all of 2018 with a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder. All of the potential that convinced Minnesota to give him a $4 million signing bonus in 2015 is still there. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 87/21/82/.278/.342/.455/15

371) Michael Pineda MIN, RHP, 30.3 – Missed all of 2018 recovering from Tommy John surgery and then also had meniscus surgery on his knee in September. When healthy, he pounded the strikezone, which racked up strikeouts, but he often caught too much of the plate. 2019 Projection: 8/4.13/1.28/136 in 140 IP

372) Brandon Lowe TB, OF/2B, 24.9 – Power breakout and a strong MLB debut, but competition for playing time in Tampa is going to be fierce. 2019 Projection: 27/8/29/.255/.330/.439/4 Prime Projection: 78/25/76/.263/.350/.468/9

373) Adrian Morejon SD, SP, 20.1 – Combines a plus fastball and a plus curveball with two different changeups. Still needs to work on control and command.  ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 13/3.62/1.29/169 in 173 IP

374) Adonis Medina PHI, RHP, 22.4 – Athletic delivery with electric stuff, Medina throws strikes with all of his pitches in any count (fastball, slider, changeup). ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 13/3.73/1.19/193 in 181 IP

375) Brusdar Graterol MIN, RHP, 20.7 – Easy upper 90’s heat with a wicked slider, average curveball, and developing changeup. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 14/3.52/1.23/190 in 180 IP

376) Drew Steckenrider MIA, Closer, 28.3 – With the Sergio Romo signing, closer job is up in the air. Longterm, he is still the favorite for saves in Miami. Classic back end of the bullpen profile with mid 90’s heat and a slider/cutter. 2019 Projection: 3/3.58/1.26/76/20 in 65 IP

377) Brad Peacock HOU, Setup, 31.2 – Used mostly like a normal short reliever in 2018, but is the favorite for the 5th starter job now that Josh James is out of the mix.  2019 Projection: 8/3.72/1.24/133 in 120 IP

378) Shin-Soo Choo CLE, OF, 36.9 – Choo continues to churn out consistent production, especially in OBP leagues. He’s a groundball hitter (6.1 degree launch angle) who makes his flyballs count (95.2 FB/LD avg. exit velocity). 2019 Projection: 81/20/66/.260/.359/.428/6

379) Matt Kemp CIN, OF, 34.6 – With a 15.8 launch angle and 94.1 MPH FB/LD average exit velocity, the move to Great American Ballpark could give his homerun power a boost.  2019 Projection: 59/22/71/.269/.318/.472/0

380) Brian Anderson MIA, 3B, 25.10 – 19.3% K% and a 51.8% groundball rate is not a recipe for success, but he hits the ball very hard (90.1 MPH) and was better at lifting the ball in the minors, so I think the ability is in there. 2019 Projection: 73/17/69/.268/.343/.418/4 Prime Projection: 80/23/93/.273/.358/.468/2

381) Garrett Richards SD, RHP, 30.11 – Likely to miss all of 2019 after undergoing Tommy John surgery. If your team is 1 or 2 years away, not the worst flyer to take if you can acquire him for cheap. 2019 Projection: OUT

382) Julio Teheran ATL, RHP, 28.2 – Velocity was down but posted highest swinging strike rate of career at 11.3% (along with highest BB/9 of career at 4.30). .217 BABIP shows Teheran got lucky last season. 2019 Projection: 9/4.25/1.32/161 in 182 IP

383) Jake Junis KC, RHP, 26.6 – Slider is his best pitch, and he knows it, throwing it 40.1% of the time. 2019 Projection: 9/4.11/1.27/161 in 175 IP

384) Vince Velasquez PHI, RHP, 26.10 – Upped his slider usage in 2018, which is his best secondary pitch, to go along with his 94.6 MPH fastball. 2019 Projection: 9/4.16/1.33/163 in 150 IP

385) Brandon Woodruff MIL, RHP, 26.2 – Mid 90’s fastball-slider combo with a few changeups mixed in. 2019 Projection: 9/3.91/1.32/137 in 145 IP

386) Dylan Bundy BAL, SP, 26.4 – Career high 12.7% swinging strike rate, but it did not help his ERA (5.45).  2019 Projection: 9/4.36/1.32/175 in 175 IP

387) Nate Pearson TOR, RHP, 22.7 – Lit up the radar guns at the Falls Stars game throwing 103 mph bee-bees. Everything else is still pretty raw. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 13/3.58/1.24/192 in 180 IP

388) Yuli Gurriel HOU, 1B/3B, 34.10 – 11% K% and 89.3 MPH average exit velocity is strong, but his FB/LD average exit velocity dropped almost 5 MPH in 2018 to a paltry 89.7 MPH. 2019 Projection: 67/15/73/.286/.323/.441/3

389) Shane Greene DET, Closer, 30.4 – Detroit’s closer by default. Everything plays off his mid 90’s sinker. 2019 Projection: 4/4.18/1.33/67/29 in 65 IP

390) Brad Boxberger KC, Closer, 30.10 – Signing with Kansas City makes Boxberger the favorite for the closer job. Injury issues, velocity decline, spotty performance track record, and trade risk makes him far from a safe bet to hold the job all season. 2019 Projection: 4/3.98/1.34/64/20 in 50 IP

391) C.J. Cron MIN, 1B, 29.3 – Broke out with 30 homers after being given the most playing time in his career, but poor defensive 1B are so disposable in today’s game, his margin of error is very slim. 2019 Projection: 64/25/73/.250/.315/.476/2

392) Enrique Hernandez LAD, OF/SS/2B, 27.7 – Great second half. Good underlying numbers. I don’t know if the playing time is going to be there, but this guy has late career breakout written all over him. 2019 Projection: 79/23/71/.262/.349/.481/4

393) Jose Martinez STL, OF/1B,  30.8 – Hits it hard but swing is geared more for line drives than home runs. In need of a trade to the AL, especially after the Goldy trade. 2019 Projection: 61/18/74/.292/.356/.469/1

394) Seranthony Dominguez PHI, Setup/Closer, 24.4 – Throws a 98.4 MPH fastball, 98.6 MPH sinker, 88.9 MPH slider, and a 91.1 MPH change-up. In 2100, will this be the average pitcher?  2019 Projection: 2/3.16/1.02/79/16 in 62 IP

395) Jordan Hicks STL, Seteup/Closer, 22.7 – 101.7 MPH fastball with a 5.21 BB/9. With the Miller signing, Hicks is no longer the frontrunner for saves in St. Louis. 2019 Projection: 4/3.52/1.28/74/12 in 74 IP

396) Dellin Betances NYY, RP, 31.0 – How to value set-up men is so league dependent it is impossible to get right on a general ranking. In my 30 team holds league, Betances is insanely valuable. In my 12 team, weekly lineups, no holds league he is almost worthless. 2019 Projection: 4/2.91/1.09/113/6 in 65 IP

397) A.J. Minter ATL, Setup, 25.7 – Vizcaino is the favorite for the closers job to start the year, but with only one year left of team control, Minter could be the closer of the future. 2019 Projection: 4/3.21/1.24/76/8 in 64 IP

398) Joe Jimenez DET, Setup, 24.3 – The closer of the future in Detroit, and if Greene stumbles, the future could come this year. Jimenez is your prototypical flamethrowing, fastball/slider late inning reliever. 2019 Projection: 4/3.61/1.28/74/9 in 65 IP

399) Ty Buttrey LAA, Setup, 26.0 – Buttrey has a 96 MPH fastball which racked up 74 strikeouts in 49 IP at Triple-A. He then closed out the season by striking out 20 batters in 16.1 IP in MLB, while also collecting 4 saves. The Allen signing means he won’t close to start the year, but he could still be the closer of the future. 2019 Projection: 3/3.51/1.26/71/9 in 65 IP

400) Kyle Gibson MIN, RHP, 31.5 – About a 1 MPH velocity bump on all of his pitches led to a career high 11.5% swinging strike rate. 2019 Projection: 10/3.92/1.32/167 in 186 IP

401) Jhoulys Chacin MIL, RHP, 31.3 – Low strikeout rates are concerning, with Steamer really not buying in (4.67 ERA, 1.42 WHIP projection). The surface numbers have been good the past two seasons, but they have been buoyed by low BABIP’s. 2019 Projection: 13/3.98/1.26/151 in 182 IP

402) Mike Minor TEX, LHP, 31.3 – 93.2 MPH fastball which is up about 2 MPH from his starting days in 2010-2014. He was slowly building himself up all season after not starting for 3 seasons, with his fastball velocity increasing as the year went on. There is some sneaky upside here. 2019 Projection: 11/4.02/1.24/148 in 165 IP

403) Kevin Pillar TOR, OF, 30.3 – Career high 16.5 degree launch angle but his strikeout rate and walk rate also took a small hit. 2019 Projection: 69/14/58/.253/.295/.411/13

404) Daniel Palka CHW, OF, 27.5 – 34.1% K% with a 92.3 MPH avg. exit velocity (97.4 MPH avg. exit velocity on FB/LD) and 11.5 degree launch angle. In other words, Palka doesn’t hit it often, but when he does, he smokes it. 2019 Projection: 60/28/73/.237/.299/.468/3

405) Greg Holland ARI, Closer, 33.5 – Favorite for saves in Arizona, but will have a very short leash if he doesn’t perform well, and if he does perform well, there is a good chance he will be traded out of the role. 2019 Projection: 3/3.77/1.32/57/23 in 56 IP

406) Jeremy Jeffress MIL, Closer/Set-up, 31.6 – Should have at least a share of the closer’s job, although he will be a tough play in weekly lineup, saves only leagues. 2019 Projection: 5/3.21/1.19/74/15 in 71 IP

407) Pedro Strop CHC, Closer/Setup, 33.10 – Favorite to close out games if Morrow is unavailable. 2019 Projection: 4/3.00/1.09/59/12 in 60 IP

408) Mark Trumbo BAL, OF, 33.2 – Underwent knee surgery to repair cartilage in September 2018. Should be ready for spring training. Exit velocity is Trumbo’s game, with a 92.8 MPH avg exit velocity and 95.9 MPH on FB/LD. 2019 Projection: 61/24/69/.253/.309/.457/1

409) Kevin Smith TOR, SS, 22.9 – Slashed .302/.358/.528 with 25 homers, 29 steals, and a 121/40 K/BB in 129 games split between Full-A and Advanced-A. The real test will come at Double-A, but by then, it could be too late to buy. ETA: Late 2020 Prime Projection: 74/24/77/.248/.312/.456/12

410) Marco Luciano SF, SS, 17.7 – Signed for $2.6 million in 2018, Luciano’s standout skill is his plus raw power which he generates with a smooth swing. ETA: 2025 Prime Projection: 81/28/93/.255/.338/.483/7

411) Ryan Mountcastle BAL, 3B, 22.1 – Big, aggressive, natural hitter with developing power. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 80/26/80/.278/.320/.476/5

412) Ronaldo Hernandez TB, C, 21.5 – Power hitting catcher who won’t tank your average. ETA: Mid 2021 Prime Projection: 51/22/66/.260/.320/.460/2

413) Luiz Gohara ATL, LHP, 22.8 – Whipped himself into shape this off-season as he is looking to bounce back from a down and injured 2018. 2019 Projection: 5/3.98/1.32/81 in 74 IP Prime Projection: 11/3.81/1.30/187 in 174 IP

414) Dustin Fowler OAK, OF, 24.3 – 45th fastest sprint speed in baseball shows Fowler’s speed has completely returned after his unfortunate knee injury, but low walk rates (3.8% at Triple-A and 3.9% in MLB) and weak airborne contact (88.8 MPH) is preventing him from passing Laureano on the depth chart. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 78/14/63/.262/.310/.412/21

415) Daulton Varsho ARI, C, 22.9 – Probably won’t hit much better than your average starting catcher, but plus speed gives Varsho an added dimension. ETA: 2020/21 Prime Projection: 57/18/60/.255/.304/.421/12

416) Jon Duplantier ARI, RHP, 24.9 – Finished 2nd highest (to Whitley) in strikeouts in the Arizona Fall League. Should get his shot this season. ETA: Mid 2019 Prime Projection: 11/3.74/1.29/178 in 175 IP

417) Luis Patino SD, RHP, 19.5 – Mid 90’s fastball with a plus slider and above average control. Curveball and changeup lag behind. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 12/3.75/1.28/163 in 170 IP

418) Michel Baez SD, RHP, 23.2 – 6′,8”, 220 pounds with a fastball that can hit the upper 90’s, but needs to work on secondaries and command. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/3.82/1.32/179 in 173 IP

419) Hans Crouse TEX, RHP, 20.6 – Ace potential thanks to a mid-90’s, high spin rate fastball, and slider that flashes plus, but violent delivery tacks on some extra risk. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 13/3.54/1.23/188 in 172 IP

420) Matthew Liberatore TB, LHP, 19.5 – 16th overall pick in the 2018 draft. Big lefty with a deceptive fastball and advanced secondaries (curveball, changeup). ETA: 2021/22 Prime Projection: 13/3.63/1.22/193 in 178 IP

421) Cole Winn TEX, RHP, 19.4 – 15th overall pick in the 2015 draft. Signed for $3.15 million. Athletic delivery with a plus fastball and curveball. Also throws a slider and changeup that show potential. ETA: 2021/22 Prime Projection: 14/3.66/1.24/200 in 190 IP

422) Ronald Guzman TEX, 1B, 24.5 – More of a pure hitter than power hitter, but power should naturally increase as Guzman gains strength. 2019 Projection: 68/20/74/.248/.318/.426/3 Prime Projection: 74/24/87/.269/.335/.462/3

423) Sean Murphy OAK, C, 24.6 – Plus defensive catcher with a strong plate approach, good feel to hit, and plus raw power that he hasn’t completely tapped into yet. ETA: Mid 2019 Prime Projection: 62/18/71/.268/.335/.427/2

424) Jed Lowrie NYM, 2B, 34.11 = Good feel to hit, strong plate approach, and the ability to lift the ball. Lowrie has been one of the best 2nd baseman in baseball the last two years. 2019 Projection: 79/18/81/.265/.348/.435/1

425) Taijuan Walker ARI, RHP, 26.8 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in April 2018 and is expected back at some point during the 1st half of 2019. Talented pitcher whose best years should still be ahead of him. 2019 Projection: 6/4.15/1.33/91 in 100 IP

426) Dereck Rodriguez SF, LHP, 26.10 – 2.81 ERA in 118.1 IP in MLB debut, but with only 89 strikeouts and a 4.56 xFIP, it does not seem sustainable.  2019 Projection: 9/4.06/1.30/131 in 160 IP

427) Trevor Richards MIA, RHP, 25.11 – Tied for the 2nd most valuable changeup in MLB with Anibal Sanchez, behind only Kyle Hendricks. 2019 Projection: 9/3.91/1.30/158 in 165 IP

428) Bobby Bradley CLE, 1B, 22.10 – With Cleveland looking to shed their veterans and trim payroll, Bradley will have a prime opportunity to win the 1B job within the next couple of seasons. He is your classic masher with power, patience, and strikeouts. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 77/29/88/.242/.329/.471/1

429) Brent Rooker MIN, OF/1B, 24.5 – Power will definitely play. Only question is how low of a batting average it will come with. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 74/32/87/.244/.327/.495/4

430) Jason Kipnis CLE, 2B, 32.0 – Silver lining to Kipnis’ mediocre at best 2017-18 is that he started to lift the ball more, so his decline years should come with some usable power. 2019 Projection: 72/19/69/.247/.320/.412/6

431) Zach Eflin PHI, RHP, 25.0 – Velocity spiked to 95.2 MPH (+1.5 MPH from 2017) and with it so did his strikeout rate. 2019 Projection: 9/4.22/1.31/132 in 140

432) Jake Odorizzi MIN, RHP, 29.0 – Extreme flyball pitcher with a 20.2 degree launch angle against. 2019 Projection: 9/4.23/1.32/154 in 167 IP

433) Danny Duffy KC, LHP, 30.3 – Shoulder impingement ended Duffy’s season in early September. He took a step back in multiple areas in 2018, including swinging strike rate, BB/9, and HR rate. 2019 Projection: 9/4.21/1.34/145 in 160 IP

434) Anthony DeSclafani CIN, RHP, 29.0 – Plus slider that he pairs with a 94.1 MPH fastball and 94.2 MPH sinker. 2019 Projection: 10/4.16/1.28/147 in 156 IP

435) Lance Lynn TEX, RHP, 31.11 – Down year in 2018 but the stuff is the same, or actually a half tick better than what it was in St. Louis (94 MPH fastball in 2018). 2019 Projection: 9/4.24/1.35/161 in 173 IP

436) Caleb Smith MIA, LHP, 27.8 – Was having a breakout season (4.19/1.24/88/33 in 77.1 IP) thanks to his nasty slider and swing and miss fastball before a lat injury abruptly put it to halt. He is supposed to be a little behind at the start of spring, but his rotation spot should be waiting for him when he is ready. 2019 Projection: 7/4.03/1.28/138 in 140 IP

437) Jeff Samardzija SF, RHP, 34.2 – Shoulder injury in Spring caused 2018 to be a lost season. If he looks healthy in Spring 2019, his draft stock should rise. 2019 Projection: 9/4.20/1.28/161 in 175 IP

438) Trevor Williams PIT, RHP, 26.11 – Extremely low strikeout rate limits upside, but has been very good at inducing weak contact. 2019 Projection: 11/3.81/1.29/125 in 165 IP

439) Jose Urena MIA, RHP, 27.7 – Mid 90’s heat with a plus slider, but doesn’t miss enough bats (8.9% swinging strike rate). 2019 Projection: 9/4.13/1.28/128 in 170 IP

440) Niko Goodrum DET, 2B, 27.1 – Moderate power/speed combo with a low average. 2019 Projection: 61/15/59/.248/.315/.420/13

441) Chase Anderson MIL, SP, 31.4 – Couldn’t maintain the velocity bump that spurred his 2017 breakout and numbers fell back to his mediocre career norms. 2019 Projection: 10/4.07/1.28/134 in 155 IP

442) Tanner Roark CIN, RHP, 32.6 – Move from a pitcher’s park to a hitter’s park isn’t going to help, and he doesn’t rack up enough strikeouts to really get excited about him. 2019 Projection: 10/4.28/1.33/158 in 180 IP

443) Willians Astudillo MIN, C/3B, 27.6 – Insane 3.1% K% in MLB debut with an 87.2 MPH average exit velocity, which shows there is some strength behind it, although it was only 88.1 MPH on FB/LD. 2019 Projection: 48/13/53/.288/.317/.437/3

444) Wilmer Flores ARI, 1B, 27.8 – Arizona moved Marte to CF to open up playing time for Flores at 2B. Flores doesn’t hit the ball very hard, but he hits it in the air and and had a 9.8% K% in 2018. 2019 Projection: 69/20/77/.269/.317/.445/1

445) Nick Williams PHI, OF, 25.7 – Took a step forward in BB% (7.1%) last season, but he stills needs to improve his launch angle (7.8 degrees) and K% (24.8%) to tap into his potential. 2019 Projection: 51/16/49/.259/.321/.437/3

446) Roman Quinn PHI, OF, 26.1 – 2nd fastest sprint speed in baseball at 30.2 feet per second. Very similar profile to Mallex Smith. 2019 Projection: 46/3/23/.258/.319/.399/17

447) Ryan McKenna BAL, OF, 22.2 – Above average speed, good plate approach, and makes hard contact. ETA: Late 2020 Prime Projection: 84/18/67/.271/.348/.421/15

448) Johan Camargo ATL, 3B, 25.3 – Donaldson signing pushes Camargo out of the everyday 3B job, but he should still see plenty of at-bats in a super utility role. 2019 Projection: 53/13/61/.267/.328/.431/1

449) Anderson Espinoza SD, RHP, 21.1 – Hasn’t pitched in two seasons after elbow discomfort led to Tommy John surgery in July 2017. When healthy, Espinoza has a mid 90’s fastball with two potential plus secondaries in his curveball and changeup. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/3.81/1.27/158 in 150 IP

450) Jaime Barria LAA, RHP, 22.9 – 7th most valuable slider in baseball which he threw 36.5% of the time. 2019 Projection: 9/4.36/1.35/124 in 155 IP Prime Projection: 12/3.88/1.31/155 in 175 IP

451) Isan Diaz MIA, 2B, 22.10 – Power, patience, and a little speed. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 88/20/73/.250/.350/.445/10

452) Heliot Ramos SF, OF, 19.7 – Surface numbers were mediocre in full season debut, but 25.4% K% was actually kinda encouraging after striking out 31.8% of the time in rookie ball. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 77/24/83/.253/.326/.468/11

453) Monte Harrison MIA, OF, 23.8 – Looks more like a basketball player than a baseball player out on the field. Which is a good thing because he is an uber athlete, but also a bad thing because he hits breaking balls like a basketball player too. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 72/26/77/.238/.308/.443/18

454) Khalil Lee KC, OF, 20.9 – Cut strikeout rate from 31.2% in 2017 to 24.9% in 2018. Power dropped too (from 17 homers to 6), but some of that can be attributed to playing in a pitchers league. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 85/17/69/.257/.336/.451/17

455) Esteury Ruiz SD, 2B, 20.1 – Plus power/speed combo. Hit 12 homers with a 44.8% FB% and stole 49 bases in 117 games at Full-A. 28.6% K% shows there is some risk. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 83/24/81/.261/.338/.473/20

456) Leody Taveras TEX, OF, 20.7 – Tooled up, plus defensive centerfielder who has been one of the youngest players in his league the past two seasons. Questions about the bat because of poor quality of contact, although he has a solid plate approach and gets the bat on the ball. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 79/17/62/.268/.333/.411/20

457) Brandon Marsh LAA, OF, 21.4 – An elite athlete with a plus power/speed combo and plus centerfield defense, but a 27.7% K% at High-A shows he is still raw at the plate. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 81/20/76/.253/.337/.436/16

458) Oneil Cruz PIT, SS, 20.6 – 6’7”, 175 pounds, Cruz is an extreme groundball hitter (28% FB%) with a raw, but improving plate approach. He has monster raw power and athleticism you can dream on.  ETA: 2022 2019 Projection: 77/22/71/.255/.318/.431/9

459) Justin Dunn SEA, RHP, 23.6 – 19th pick in the 2016 draft. Athletic delivery with the potential for 4 above average pitches (fastball, curve, slider, change) but needs to improve fastball command. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 12/3.76/1.28/176 in 182 IP

460) Freddy Peralta MIL, RHP, 22.10 – Piles up strikeouts with lots of low 90’s heat up in the zone. 2019 Projection: 5/4.21/1.37/100 in 90 IP Prime Projection: 11/3.72/1.33/166 in 150 IP

461) Adam Haseley PHI, OF, 23.0 – Selected 8th overall in the 2017 draft, Haseley has been as advertised, but a little on the underwhelming side, displaying a plus hit tool with a mediocre power/speed combo. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 82/14/67/.283/.335/.417/12

462) Grant Lavigne COL, 1B, 19.7 – Selected 42nd overall in the 2018 draft, Levigne destroyed the Pioneer League in his pro debut, slashing .350/.477/.519 with 6 homers, 12 steals and a 40/45 K/BB in 59 games. Potential for plus hit and plus power. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 76/25/89/.275/.362/.491/6

463) Michael Fulmer DET, RHP, 26.0 – Underwent surgery for a torn meniscus in right knee in September. Throws over 96 MPH on his fastball and sinker, but hasn’t been able to turn that heat into big strikeout totals quite yet. (Update: Likely to undergo Tommy John surgery and be out for the season. 2019 Projection: OUT

464) Lucas Giolito CHW, RHP, 24.9 – Once considered the top pitching prospect in baseball, Giolito has done nothing but regress since that designation. With a 92.8 MPH fastball and 125/90 K/BB in 173.1 IP last season, I can’t quite put him in the post hype sleeper category, but his velocity did tick up in the 2nd half and he wasn’t quite as bad as he was in the 1st half. 2019 Projection: 8/4.92/1.44/131 in 165 IP

465) Eric Lauer SD, LHP, 23.10 – Back end starter profile with low 90’s heat and without a put away pitch, but he knows how to pitch and has had success everywhere he has been. 2019 Projection: 8/4.28/1.36/138 in 150 IP Prime Projection: 10/4.01/1.29/161 in 175 IP

466) Kole Calhoun LAA, OF, 31.6 – Low BABIP (.241) tanked Calhoun’s batting average (.208) in 2018, but he did post career high exit velocities (90.4 MPH avg., 94.4 MPH FB/LD). There could be some untapped power upside in here. 2019 Projection: 76/20/68/.246/.328/.415/4

467) Brandon Belt SF, 1B, 31.0 – Hits the ball in the air but makes weak contact and plays home games in a terrible hitter’s park. 2019 Projection: 78/19/76/.257/.360/.439/4

468) Ryon Healy SEA, 1B, 27.3 – Poor plate approach with good power. 2019 Projection: 62/23/71/.253/.297/.440/1

469) Starlin Castro MIA, 2B, 29.0 – Hasn’t had that breakout season we were all hoping for. He did have a career high 7.4% BB% in 2018, and the natural ability is still there, so maybe there is a little more in here. 2019 Projection: 68/14/63/.281/.329/.421/5

470) Yan Gomes WASH, C, 31.8 – Poor plate approach (27.4% K%, 4.8% BB%), but he lifts it (18.5 degree launch angle) with some power behind it (88.9 MPH avg. exit velo, 92.4 MPH on FB/LD). 2019 Projection: 51/17/62/.241/.293/.425/0

471) Robinson Chirinos HOU, C, 34.10 – Hits it in the air (48.9% FB%) and hits it hard (93.3 MPH FB/LD avg. exit velocity). 2019 Projection: 47/18/58/.231/.336/.436/1

472) Francisco Cervelli PIT, C, 33.1 – Drastically changed his hitting profile from an extreme groundball hitter to a flyball hitter, without sacrificing anything in K% or BB%. 2019 Projection: 43/12/55/.256/.362/.419/2

473) Welington Castillo CHW, C, 31.11 – Low average, power hitting catcher. Was off to a hot start in 2017 before being suspended 80 games for PED’s.  2019 Projection: 43/15/56/.253/.304/.422/1

474) Delino DeShields Jr. TEX, OF, 26.8 – 7th fastest sprint speed in baseball guarantees he is going to steal bases, but a 3.7 degree launch angle and 79.6 MPH average exit velocity is awful. 2019 Projection: 62/5/28/.246/.330/.346/23

475) Greg Allen CLE, OF, 26.1 – The new Rajai Davis. Might not play everyday, but will find a way to rack up steals. 2019 Projection: 63/7/39/.258/.319/.355/26

476) Oscar Mercado CLE, OF, 24.4 – Won’t be handed at-bats, but with Cleveland looking to get younger, Mercado has a chance to carve out a role as early as this year as a speed first outfielder. 2019 Projection: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 72/11/51/.270/.331/.408/20

477) Eric Thames MIL, OF/1B, 32.4 – Strikeout rate spiked last season but crushed the ball when he did make contact. 2019 Projection: 59/22/47/.231/.324/.487/6

478) Brett Gardner NYY, OF, 35.5 – No guarantee of everyday at-bats and getting old, but still fast (40th fastest sprint speed in baseball) and can still knock 10+ homers over that Yankee Stadium short porch. 2019 Projection: 81/14/50/.254/.337/.399/15

479) Kendrys Morales TOR, DH, 35.10 – Old and slow but can still put a charge into the ball (92.3 MPH avg exit velo). 2019 Projection: 51/23/67/.254/.319/.447/1

480) Sandy Alcantara MIA, RHP, 23.7 – Raw flamethrower with good stuff who took steps forward in 2018 with control/command and secondary pitches. Still a long way to go. 2019 Projection: 8/4.18/1.38/131 in 150 IP Prime Projection: 11/3.89/1.33/171 in 175 IP

481) Fernando Romero MIN, SP, 24.4 – Mid 90’s fastball with a potential plus slider. Development of changeup is necessary to unlock upside. 2019 Projection: 7/4.21/1.34/93 in 110 IP Prime Projection: 12/3.73/1.28/171 in 183 IP

482) Trevor Cahill LAA, RHP, 31.1 – Constantly on the DL but hasn’t had any major surgeries and stuff was as good as ever in 2018. If he can stay off the DL, he should provide value. 2019 Projection: 7/4.03/1.33/108 in 120 IP

483) Sean Reid-Foley TOR, RHP, 23.7 – High strikeout, high whip mid rotation starter. 2019 Projection: 8/4.41/1.43/143 in 130 IP Prime Projection: 12/3.92/1.36/194 in 172 IP

484) Matt Duffy TB, 3B, 28.3 – 4.6 degree launch angle with below average exit velocity, but he has some speed and makes good contact. 2019 Projection: 64/7/48/.285/.349/.391/11

485) DJ LeMahieu NYY, 2B, 30.9 – Leaving Coors and going to New York’s murky playing time situation adds too much unknown risk for my blood. 2019 Projection: 75/11/61/.288/.341/.410/6

486) Avisail Garcia TB, OF, 27.10 – Hits the ball very hard but hits it on the ground too often and has a poor plate approach. 2019 Projection: 55/16/62/.263/.319/.448/4

487) DJ Stewart BAL, OF, 25.4 – With Baltimore rebuilding they have every reason to give their 2015 1st round pick an extended chance to lock down a starting job. Stewart is a patient hitter with plus raw power and the ability to steal a handful of bases. 2019 Projection: 57/16/53/.246/.328/.411/6 Prime Projection: 76/21/72/.259/.342/.448/9

488) Cole Tucker PIT, SS, 22.9 – Plus defensive SS with plus speed and a strong plate approach. The 6’3”, 205 pound Tucker was a first round pick in 2015, so while he hasn’t been able to produce much power, there should be more coming in the future. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 81/15/65/.268/.331/.404/21

489) Luis Alexander Basabe CHW, OF, 22.7 – Power/speed combo with walks and strikeouts. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 79/19/74/.246/.333/.429/18

490) Austin Beck OAK, OF, 20.5 – Would have been nice for the power and/or speed to show up (2 homers and 8 steals in 123 games at Single-A), but his 21.9% K% and .296 BA is quite encouraging considering the questions surrounding his hit tool coming into the year. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 85/23/78/.258/.334/.469/13

491) Zack Collins CHW, C, 23.2 – Not a lock to stick at catcher. Major bump in OBP leagues. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 65/23/61/.248/.364/.447/2

492) Renato Nunez BAL, 3B, 25.0 – Has hit for power his entire professional career but that is the only plus skill he possesses. Improving walk rates the past two seasons is a positive sign in his development. 2019 Projection: 54/18/58/.249/.312/.413/1 Prime Projection: 68/23/81/.259/.331/.458/1

493) Jacob Nottingham MIL, C, 24.0 – Defense has improved enough to where he is likely to stick behind the plate, but will have to improve his 30.1% K% in order to consistently tap into his big raw power. ETA: Mid 2019 Prime Projection: 51/20/64/.248/.305/.418/3

494) Rowdy Tellez TOR, 1B, 24.0 – Dominated in his September cup of coffee, slashing .314/.329/.614 with 4 homers and a 21/2 K/BB in 70 at bats. Not a pure power hitter, but exit velocity readings were strong (96 MPH FB/LD avg exit velo) and has a solid plate approach. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 58/18/65/.262/.337/.440/3

495) Joe Ross WASH, RHP, 25.10 – Returned from Tommy John surgery for 3 starts at the very end of the season. He didn’t pitch all that well, but he did have all of his velocity back. 2019 Projection: 7/4.26/1.33/121 in 138 IP

496) Isiah Kiner-Falefa TEX, C, 24.0 – Realmuto like skill set with above average speed and strong plate approach (62/28 K/BB in 111 games), but high groundball rates and poor exit velocities will have to improve before he can sniff Realmuto’s fantasy value. 2019 Projection: 47/6/41/.267/.328/.369/9 Prime Projection: 69/11/61/.278/.340/.398/12

497) Zack Cozart LAA, 3B, 33.8 – Season ended in June when he underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. The hope is that he is ready to go by Spring Training, but shoulder injuries are notorious for taking a long time to truly get back to 100%. 2019 Projection: 75/18/65/.250/.318/.417/3

498) Andrew Knizner STL, C, 24.2 – Catcher of the future in St. Louis. Has posted outstanding strikeout rates throughout his minor league career (12.8% at Double-A and 13.1% at Triple-A in 2018) and has average pop. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 62/17/69/.278/.337/.423/0

499) Chris Shaw SF, OF, 25.6 – Double plus power with a high strikeout rate and poor plate approach. With San Francisco in need of power, Shaw should see a lot of at-bats. 2019 Projection: 43/17/59/.228/.289/.425/0

500) J.P. Crawford SEA, SS, 24.3 – OBP is only plus skill, with the hope that BA, homers, and steals develop into above average skills. 2019 Projection: 36/6/27/.243/.339/.397/4 Prime Projection: 94/18/63/.268/.372/.439/10

501) Eric Pardinho TOR, RHP, 18.3 – Top ranked international pitching prospect in 2017, Pardinho immediately went to the more advanced Rookie Ball (Appy League) and dominated with an advanced feel for the art of pitching. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 14/3.42/1.17/189 in 184 IP

502) Drew Smyly TEX, LHP, 29.10 – Missed all of 2017 and 2018 recovering from Tommy John surgery, but is expected to be healthy coming into 2019. Predominantly a fastball/curveball pitcher who mixed in a cutter and a rarely used changeup. 2019 Projection: 8/4.20/1.31/122 in 140 IP

503) Matt Harvey LAA, RHP, 30.0 – Pitched relatively well in Cincy with a pitching line of 4.50/1.25/111/28 in 128 IP. He still throws plenty hard, and if he can remain healthy, his days of being an effective starter might not be over. 2019 Projection: 9/4.31/1.34/134 in 150 IP

504) Daniel Mengden OAK, RHP, 26.1 – With a 93.2 MPH fastball and 6 pitch mix, the ingredients are there for Mengden to be a solid mid rotation starter. 9/4.21/1.32/123 in 150 IP Prime Projection: 13/3.78/1.26/160 in 175 IP

505) Matt Strahm SD, LHP, 27.4 – Will come to camp competing for a starting job. Strahm has a traditional 4-pitch mix with everything playing off his 94 MPH fastball. Changeup is best secondary. 2019 Projection: 6/3.65/1.24/115 in 110 IP

506) Johnny Cueto SF, RHP, 33.1 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in August and is expected to miss all of 2019. 2019 Projection: OUT

507) Hunter Strickland SEA, Closer, 30.6 – Favorite for saves in Seattle to start the season, but ineffectiveness and possibility of getting traded are legitimate risks. 2019 Projection: 3/3.83/1.34/57/24 in 60 IP

508) Leonys Martin CLE, OF, 31.1 – Low batting average with a moderate power/speed combo. Life threatening bacterial infection ended Martin’s season in August, but he should be ready to roll in 2019. 2019 Projection: 67/16/53/.248/.311/.398/12

509) Hudson Potts SD, 3B, 20.5 – 1st rd pick in 2016 who came into his own this season, slashing .281/.350/.498 with 17 homers and a 112/37 K/BB in 106 games at High-A. Struggled in his short Double-A cameo, but considering his age and small sample I would basically throw that out. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 75/24/86/.257/.316/.455/4

510) Nick Pratto KC, 1B, 20.6 – Exploded down the stretch, mashing 9 homers in final 38 games of the season, including the playoffs. Plus athleticism for a 1B. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 87/22/84/.270/.342/.479/12

511) Cavan Biggio TOR, 2B/3B/1B, 24.0 – Mechanical adjustment to swing unlocked power, as Biggio smacked 26 homers in 132 games at Double-A. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 76/24/73/.245/.332/.458/9

512) Ronny Mauricio NYM, SS, 18.0 – $2.1 million international signing in 2017. Toolsy up the middle defender with a good feel to hit. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 78/26/89/.274/.328/.467/7

513) Elehuris Montero STL, 3B, 20.8 – 6’3”, 195 pound beast who has consistently hit the ball in the air with reasonable strikeout rates. Slashed .322/.381/.529 with 15 homers and a 81/33 K/BB in 103 games at Full-A. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 75/28/83/.263/.325/.478/2

514) Bobby Dalbec BOS, 3B, 23.9 – Monster power (32 homers in 129 games) with monster strikeout rates (31% at Advanced-A and 37.1% at Double-A). ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 66/30/71/.238/.321/.465/2

515) Mark Vientos NYM, 3B, 19.4 – At 6’4”, 185 pounds he has all the tools to develop into a big, physical power hitter. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 78/27/90/.263/.339/.484/3

516) Bryce Wilson ATL, RHP, 21.3 – Able to dominate minor league hitters with a plus fastball that he can locate wherever he wants, but will need to improve secondaries to find the same success on the Major League level. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 13/3.97/1.26/174 in 183 IP

517) Dustin May LAD, RHP, 21.7 – Plus fastball with plus command but secondaries are still raw. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/3.91/1.27/163 in 175 IP

518) Nick Neidert MIA, RHP, 22.5 – Plus changeup is his calling card, but low 90’s fastball and fringe breaking ball limit his upside on the Major League level. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 13/3.93/1.25/169 in 182 IP

519) Logan Gilbert SEA, RHP, 21.11 – Workhorse build at 6’6”, 225 pounds. Absolutely destroyed the Atlantic Sun Conference with a pitching line of 2.72/0.85/163/25 in 112 IP. Gilbert relies on a low 90’s heavy, sinking fastball (also has a mid 90’s 4 seamer) to go along with two potential plus pitches in his curveball and slider. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 14/3.72/1.29/193 in 185 IP

520) Akil Baddoo MIN, OF, 20.8 – Tooled up youngster with all category potential but still raw. 11 homers, 24 steals, 14.3% BB%, and 24% K% in 113 games at Full-A. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 86/17/71/.266/.351/.428/19

521) David Fletcher LAA, 2B/3B, 24.10 – Elite contact rates (11.1%) with above average speed but makes very weak contact (83.4 MPH avg. exit velocity).  2019 Projection: 68/6/51/.271/.311/.378/11 Prime Projection: 79/10/62/.288/.335/.405/17

522) Anderson Tejeda TEX, SS, 20.11 – Power (19 homers in 121 games at High-A) and strikeouts (27.2% K%) with the chance to stick at SS. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 72/21/74/.244/.321/.431/9

523) Evan Longoria SF, 3B, 33.6 – Slow decline was only hastened by the move to San Francisco. He’s still got some juice left in the tank but upside is gone. 2019 Projection: 63/20/71/.259/.308/.419/4

524) Todd Frazier NYM, 3B, 33.1 – Will kill your batting average, but still has power (18.6 degree launch angle with a 93.7 MPH FB/LD avg exit velo) and will chip in some steals. 2019 Projection: 63/23/69/.219/.313/.426/7

525) Aaron Sanchez TOR, RHP, 26.9 – Hard throwing righty who relies on his heavy, sinking fastball, but hasn’t missed enough bats to hold big fantasy value. Career high 9.6% swinging strike rate in 2018 was a step in the right direction. 2019 Projection: 9/4.12/1.38/127 in 150 IP

526) Austin Hays BAL, OF, 23.9 – Shoulder and ankle injuries were responsible for Hays terrible season. Expect a bounceback in 2018. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 67/23/78/.264/.312/.443/6

527) Franklin Perez DET, RHP, 21.4 – Lat strain and sore shoulder limited Perez to 19.1 IP this season. When healthy, he has a 4 pitch mix with the changeup being his best weapon. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 14/3.82/1.27/173 in 180 IP

528) J.B. Bukauskas HOU, RHP, 22.6 – Bulging disk in back from a car accident limited Bukauskas to 59 IP. Plus fastball/slider combo gives him high strikeout upside, but struggles with control/command and weak changeup might limit his innings totals even if he does start. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 12/3.76/1.31/178 in 163 IP

529) DL Hall BAL, LHP, 20.6 – Being an Orioles pitching prospect is the kiss of death, but a highly regarded lefty with 3 potential plus pitches (fastball, curveball, changeup) could be good enough to break the dry spell. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 12/3.56/1.27/185 in 180 IP

530) Spencer Howard PHI, RHP, 22.8 – 147/40 K/BB in 112 IP at Full-A. Dominated in the 2nd half of the season with a fastball that sat in the mid 90’s and could hit 100 MPH. Needs to improve consistency of secondary pitches and control/command to reach full potential. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/3.80/1.32/189 in 174 IP

531) Dane Dunning CHW, RHP, 24.4 – Plus sinker and slider. Mid rotation upside. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 11/3.91/1.26/179 in 183 IP

532) Tirso Ornelas SD, OF, 19.1 – 6’3”, 220 pounds, Ornelas has the potential for plus hit and plus power. He hit 8 homers with a 68/40 K/BB in 86 games in his full seaon debut as an 18-year-old. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 78/28/91/.277/.358/.485/6

533) Tristen Lutz MIL, OF, 20.7 – Plus power and underrated athleticism but will have to cut down on 27.6% K%. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 74/27/85/.258/.343/.481/8

534) D’Shawn Knowles LAA, OF, 18.2 – Played well at both stops of rookie ball as a 17 year old, hitting .311 with 5 homers and 9 steals in 58 games. He has plus speed, a patient approach at the plate, and projects for at least average power. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 85/16/68/.265/.348/.412/20

535) Parker Meadows DET, OF, 19.5 – Selected 44th overall in the 2018 draft, Meadows has a plus power/speed combo with a raw hit tool. Excellent in his pro debut, where he slashed .290/.377/.473 with 4 homers, 3 steals, and a 31/10 K/BB in 28 games split between rookie ball and short-season-A ball. Austin Meadows is his big brother, so he has the bloodlines too. ETA: 2022/23 Prime Projection: 77/24/74/.244/.318/.452/18

536) Jordan Groshans TOR, 3B/SS, 19.5 – 12th overall pick in the 2018 draft. Groshans is 6’4”, 190 pounds with plus raw power, an advanced plate approach, and solid feel to hit. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 79/25/88/.273/.357/.491/8

537) Triston Casas BOS, 3B, 19.3 – 6’4”, 238 pound beast with elite power and potential for a decent hit tool. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 79/33/91/.258/.341/.510/3

538) Brady Singer KC, RHP, 22.9 – 18th overall pick of the draft but received the 11th highest bonus. High floor, SEC battle tested starter. ETA: Mid 2020 Prime Projection: 12/3.89/1.28/175 in 185 IP

539) Ryan Weathers SD, LHP, 19.4 – Selected 7th overall in the 2018 draft, Weathers is a high floor high school arm with 3 potential above average pitches (fastball, curveball, changeup). He was strong in his pro debut (3.44/1.25/18/4 in 18.1 IP split evenly between rookie ball and Full-A). ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 13/3.71/1.25/172 in 180 IP

540) Keone Kela PIT, Setup, 26.0 – Flamethrowing, high strikeout rate reliever who is next man up in Pitt. 2019 Projection: 4/3.21/1.11/78/5 in 60 IP

541) Ryan Pressly HOU, Setup, 30.4 – Broke out last season with a pitching line of 2.54/1.11/101/22 in 71 IP. His mid 90’s fastball, slider, and curveball are all positive value pitches, and if anything happens to Osuna, Pressly could provide elite closer value. 2019 Projection: 5/3.28/1.17/81/7 in 65 IP

542) Carl Edwards Jr. CHC, Setup, 27.5 – Decent chance Edwards is the closer of the future in Chicago, but a lot can happen before that time comes. 2019 Projection: 4/3.39/1.18/82/2 in 60 IP

543) Trevor Rosenthal WASH, Setup, 28.10 – With how brittle Doolittle is, Rosenthal could see plenty of save opportunities this season. He had a bounceback year in 2018 with a pitching line of 3.40/1.20/76/20 in 47.2 IP. 2019 Projection: 4/3.42/1.31/76/13 in 55 IP

544) Matt Barnes BOS, Setup, 28.10 – 96.9 MPH fastball with a plus curveball. 2019 Projection: 5/3.43/1.24/88 in 65 IP

545) Geraldo Perdomo ARI, SS, 19.5 – Perdomo is a switch hitter with plus bat speed and an advanced plate approach. He dominated 3 levels of the low minors in 2018 (AZL, PIO, NWL), slashing .322/.438/.460 with 4 homers, 24 steals and a 44/39 K/BB in 57 games. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 87/18/77/.277/358/.438/16

546) Freudis Nova HOU, SS/2B, 19.3 – Plus hit, plus power upside which Nova started to showcase in rookie ball with a 13.4% K% and 6 homers in 41 games. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 86/23/79/.282/.336/.470/11

547) Antonio Cabello NYY, OF, 18.5 – One of the consolation prizes for losing out on Ohtani. Cabello was impressive in his pro debut and has above average to plus tools across the board. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 82/26/79/.272/.338/.470/12

548) Jeremiah Jackson LAA, SS, 19.0 – Selected 57th overall in the 2018 draft, Jackson is a tooled up athlete with a plus power/speed combo (7 homers and 10 steals in 43 games split between the Arizona and Pioneer League), but a 34% K% in the Pioneer League will need some work. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 78/22/75/.257/.331/.454/17

549) Yunior Severino MIN, 2B/SS, 19.6 – The classic lotto ticket prospect. I know everyone is looking for that prospect who seemingly comes out of nowhere to be a hyped up prospect writer darling, and with a good showing in full season ball next year, Severino could be that guy. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 81/25/89/.273/.338/.470/3

550) Jonathan Loaisiga NYY, RHP, 24.5 – Most likely going to fill a swingman role in the Yanks pen this season. Injury prone, but averaged 96.1 MPH on the fastball to go along with a potential plus changeup and curveball. 2019 Projection: 6/4.11/1.30/83 in 75 IP Prime Projection: 11/3.91/1.24/165 in 165 IP

551) Jay Bruce SEA, OF, 32.0 – Extreme flyball hitter (21.4 degree launch angle) who used to offset his low average with a handful of steals, but those days are over. Likely in a platoon role this season. 2019 Projection: 51/18/56/.242/.317/.440/2

552) Steven Duggar SF, OF, 25.5 – Plus speed and a high walk rate are best fantasy assets. 28.9% K% in both Triple-A and the Majors with well below average exit velocity makes it hard to get excited. 2019 Projection: 68/8/42/.243/.318/.397/14

553) Ryan Yarbrough TB, Post Opener Starter, 27.2 – Racked up 16 wins despite rarely starting games. Doesn’t have big velocity so he leans heavily on the cutter to get outs. 2019 Projection: 9/4.06/1.30/127 in 145 IP

554) Jake Faria TB, RHP, 25.9 – Followed up a great rookie campaign with a disastrous sophomore year. Plus changeup is still his calling card, although his slider grades out as his best pitch. 2019 Projection: 6/4.23/1.34/79 in 85 IP

555) Jordan Montgomery NYY, LHP, 26.4 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2018. Rotation spot is gone, but with a 5 pitch mix and without overpowering stuff, his future still lies in the rotation. 2019 Projection: 4/4.11/1.33/36 in 40 IP

556) Merrill Kelly ARI, RHP, 30.6 – Spent the last four seasons in Korea where he pitched well, but not outstanding. He put up a 4.09 ERA with a 161/47 K/BB in 158.1 IP in 2018. I would keep expectations in check. 2019 Projection: 9/4.28/1.32/151 in 160 IP

557) Jeurys Familia NYM, Setup, 29.5 – Bounced back in 2018 after a blood clot in his shoulder tanked his 2017. 2019 Projection: 4/3.21/1.23/76/6 in 70 IP

558) Chad Green NYY, Setup, 27.10 – Elite set-up man who needs injuries for chance at saves. 2019 Projection: 2.88/1.07/86/4 in 70 IP

559) Adam Ottavino NYY, Setup, 33.4 – Dominant fastball/slider combo. 2019 Projection: 5/3.18/1.14/92/8 in 70 IP

560) Archie Bradley ARI, Setup, 26.8 – Holland signing removes Bradley as the favorite for saves in Arizona, although nothing has been announced. Has already been involved in trade rumors this off-season, so he will almost certainly be available at the trade deadline too. 2019 Projection: 3/3.48/1.22/77/9 in 72 IP

561) Billy McKinney TOR, OF, 24.8 – Strong side of a platoon power hitter. 18.7 degree launch angle and 93.1 MPH FB/LD avg. exit velocity. 2019 Projection: 57/18/63/.250/.320/.455/2

562) Matt Adams WASH, 1B, 30.7 – Should see at-bats at 1B and OF. With a 19.1 degree launch angle and 94.6 MPH average exit velocity on FB/LD, he’s gonna hit homers. 2019 Projection: 46/20/59/.251/.312/.452/0

563) Justin Bour LAA, 1B, 30.10 – Struggles against lefties limits him to a strong side of a platoon role. 2019 Projection: 52/20/61/.251/.339/.455/1

564) Josh Reddick HOU, OF, 32.1 – 44.1% FB% with a 15.8% K% but low exit velocities are preventing bigger power numbers. 2019 Projection: 66/16/71/.267/.335/.439/6

565) Adam Frazier PIT, 2B/OF, 27.3 – Strong side of a platoon bat with a good average and a little bit of power and speed. 2019 Projection: 61/11/50/.272/.336/.402/6

566) Yonny Chirinos TB, Post Opener Starter, 25.3 – Leans heavily on his 94.2 MPH sinking fastball, while also mixing in a slider and splitter. 2019 Projection: 8/4.19/1.33/115 in 130 IP

567) Marwin Gonzalez MIN, OF/SS/2B/1B, 30.1 – Was able to maintain BB% (9.6%) from his 2017 breakout season, but was not able to maintain .343 BABIP (.301 in 2018) or 18.1% HR/FB (12.5% in 2018). 2019 Projection: 65/19/68/.266/.337/.441/4

568) Brandon Crawford SF, SS, 32.3 – As boring and unexciting as it gets, but Crawford has a full time job and is capable of power hot streaks. 2019 Projection: 65/14/69/.252/.320/.399/5

569) Evan Gattis FA, DH, 32.7 – Won’t have catcher eligibility to start the season, and there is no guarantee his new team will use him as anything other than a DH. 2019 Projection: 42/17/56/.245/.305/.460/0

570) Hernan Perez MIL, 2B/SS/3B/OF, 28.0 – Super utility player. With SS and 2B far from locked down, and Domingo Santana out of the picture, Perez could be in line for a nice amount of at-bats. 2019 Projection: 50/13/55/.256/.291/.403/15

571) Joe Panik SF, 2B, 28.5 – Elite contact percentages but makes weak contact and has below average speed. 2019 Projection: 61/9/53/.274/.335/.397/4

572) Chad Pinder OAK, 2B/OF, 27.0 – Super utility player but should see the majority of his time in LF. Pinder crushed the ball in 2018 with a 90.2 MPH average exit velocity and 95.8 MPH FB/LD average, but his strikeout and walk rates (26.4% K%,8.1% BB%) are mediocre at best. 2019 Projection: 56/15/44/.253/.320/.431/2

573) Jason Heyward ATL, OF, 29.8 – It’s almost more frustrating when elite prospects have careers like Heyward and Starlin Castro than if they just straight busted. 2019 Projection: 64/10/57/.265/.331/.399/5

574) Carlos Gonzalez FA, OF, 33.5 – Numbers haven’t looked all that hot the last two seasons, and that was with the help of Coors Field. I’m staying far away. 2019 Projection: 66/18/61/.261/.325/.447/4

575) Jordan Luplow CLE, OF, 25.6 – Short side of a platoon. Solid plate approach, above average speed, and lifts the ball, but needs to hit it harder to make an impact. 2019 Projection: 49/13/47/.252/.321/.419/6 Prime Projection: 76/20/79/.268/.339/.447/10

576) Derek Fisher HOU, OF, 25.8 – 30.2% K% and 49.3% GB% is worrisome, but the raw power and speed is elite. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 69/18/60/.238/.322/.423/16

577) Brett Phillips KC, OF, 24.10 – 41.5% K% in 147 plate appearances last season shows the risk is sky high, but he is still only 24 years old and there is an exciting power/speed combo in here. 2019 Projection: 43/9/41/.219/.291/.371/9 Prime Projection: 63/18/58/.241/.320/.418/17

578) Max Fried ATL, LHP, 25.2 – Plus curveball is his calling card, throwing the pitch 29.2% of the time, which he pairs with a 93.6 MPH fastball. If he can improve his control and command, there is fantasy friendly upside here. 2019 Projection: 5/3.83/1.34/93 in 80 IP Prime Projection: 12/3.59/1.31/186 in 178 IP

579) Brock Burke TEX, LHP, 22.8 – Dominated in his final nine starts of the season after being called up to Double-A with a pitching line of 1.95/0.96/71/14 in 55.1 IP. Changeup made huge strides this season, but is mostly a fastball/slider pitcher. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/3.91/1.30/168 in 175 IP

580) Ethan Hankins CLE, RHP, 19.10 – 35th overall pick of the draft, but only dropped that far because a shoulder injury scared teams off. Upside is as high, or higher, than any pitcher in the draft, so if you can stomach some extra injury risk, Hankins could pay off huge dividends. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 14/3.50/1.15/200 in 185 IP

581) Everson Pereira NYY, OF, 18.0 – Signed for $1.5 million in 2017, Pereira was pushed to advanced rookie ball to start his career and struggled to make contact. There is potential for plus hit, speed, and power. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 82/21/79/.275/.340/.441/14

582) Dan Vogelbach SEA, 1B, 26.4 – Hits the ball on the ground too much to be a pure power hitter, but Vogelbach has a plus plate approach and his exit velocity numbers in the majors were strong in a small sample (92.4 MPH average, 97.4 MPH FB/LD) ETA: Whenever they are able to trade Encarnacion. Prime Projection: 55/16/64/.265/.350/442/0

583) Peter O’Brien MIA, 1B/OF, 28.9 – Your classic Quad-A slugger, and now that MLB finally has a Quad-A team, the Miami Marlins, O’Brien should get his shot. 29.6% K% as a 27/28 year old at Triple-A, but he can absolutely mash, posting a 16.5 degree launch angle, 92.1 MPH avg exit velocity, and a 96.6 MPH FB/LD avg exit velocity in his MLB debut. 2019 Projection: 43/20/45/.218/.303/.411/0

584) Kevin Newman PIT, SS, 25.8 – Struggled in his MLB debut. Elite strikeout percentages that hovered around 10% throughout minor league career and has plus speed, but quality of contact is weak. 2019 Projection: 41/5/35/.258/.303/.359/10 Prime Projection: 78/11/56/.281/.330/.402/18

585) Tim Beckham SEA, SS/3B, 29.2 – Former #1 overall pick in the draft, but never really developed beyond his raw talent. Has a poor plate approach, high strikeout rate, and high groundball rate. 2019 Projection: 48/14/55/.250/.306/.408/3

586) Mauricio Dubon MIL, 2B/SS, 24.8 – Tore his ACL in May, ending what was a dominating 27 games at Colorado Springs. Dubon is an aggresive hitter with near elite strikeout rates and plus speed. Could challenge for at-bats at 2B and SS in 2019. ETA: Mid 2019 Prime Projection: 71/8/52/.272/.328/.384/19

587) Colin Moran PIT, 3B, 26.6 – Solid plate approach, makes good contact, and has some raw power. Platoon bat because he struggles to hit lefties.  2019 Projection: 53/14/61/.268/.328/.411/1

588) William Contreras ATL, C, 21.3 – Profiles much like his brother, Willson, with a solid overall approach and good raw power. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 52/18/64/.271/.333/.442/0

589) Nick Ahmed ARI, SS, 29.0 – Plus defensive SS will keep him in the lineup, but isn’t going to provide much value for your fantasy team. 2019 Projection: 63/13/66/.238/.295/.407/7

590) Mitch Moreland BOS, 1B, 33.7 – Strong side of a platoon power bat. 2019 Projection: 55/17/71/.248/.327/.436/1

591) Ji-Man Choi TB, 1B, 27.11 – Strong side of a platoon power bat. Rays have other 1B capable, left handed hitters knocking on the door, so Choi will have to scratch and claw to keep this job every step of the way. 2019 Projection: 58/17/64/.246/.331/.438/2

592) Daniel Robertson TB, 2B/SS, 25.0 – Having a breakout season until a thumb injury ended his year in August. Doesn’t have a standout tool but does a little bit of everything. 2019 Projection: 59/11/52/.266/.348/.403/4

593) Yairo Munoz STL, 2B/3B/SS/OF, 24.2 – Groundball hitter who makes good contact, hits the ball hard, and has some speed. 2019 Projection: 38/7/39/.271/.328/.406/7 Prime Projection: 81/16/69/.283/.347/.429/15

594) Yu Chang CLE, SS, 23.5 – After a solid season at Triple-A, Chang exploded in the Arizona Fall League with a .337/.396/.523 triple-slash. He does everything well except make contact, which he will have to improve to win an infield job in the majors. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 78/23/74/.250/.330/.462/10

595) MJ Melendez KC, C, 20.4 – Classic low average, power and patience catcher. Lock to stay behind the dish but 30.3% K% in Full-A adds risk. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 52/24/66/.247/.322/.452/4

596) Seuly Matias KC, OF, 20.5 – Slashed .231/.303/.550 with 31 homers, 34.8% K% and 46.4% FB% as a 19 year old in Single-A. If he can figure out his plate approach, watch out. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 62/26/71/.221/.289/.447/8

597) Josh Naylor SD, 1B/OF, 21.10 – Started to tap into his plus raw power in 2018 with 17 homers in 128 games at Double-A, but he still had a 47.3% GB%. His calling card is his good feel to hit, posting a 12% K% and 11.1% BB%. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 74/20/81/.277/.343/.451/4

598) Malcom Nunez STL, 1B, 18.1 – Slashed .415/.497/.774 with 13 homers in 44 games in the DSL. No defensive value and more physically mature than competition, but you have to take notice of those numbers no matter what. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 79/26/91/.265/.345/.495/2

599) Jhon Torres STL, OF, 19.0 – 6’4”, 199-pound physical specimen who slashed .321/.409/.525 with 8 homers, 8 steals, and a 37/19 K/BB in his stateside debut. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 77/28/89/.261/.337/.486/3

600) Deivi Garcia NYY, RHP, 19.10 – Small righty with an elite spin rate curveball that racked up 251 strikeouts in 182.1 career minor league IP. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 11/3.91/1.28/166 in 170 IP

601) Austin Dean MIA, OF, 25.6 – Good feel for contact with a little pop and slightly higher than average speed. 2019 Projection: 52/14/49/.262/.312/.409/5

602) Blake Rutherford CHW, OF, 21.11 – Solid but unspectacular skills across the board. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 81/18/69/.278/.336/.449/9

603) Orelvis Martinez TOR, SS, 17.7 – Received highest 2018 international signing bonus (excluding Victor Mesa) of $3.5 million. Ball jumps off his bat in batting practice and projects for plus power. ETA: 2025 Prime Projection: 82/26/93/.279/.352/.487/6

604) Kevin Alcantara NYY, OF, 16.9 – Signed for $1 million in 2018, Alcantara has superstar upside. He’s displayed plus speed with the potential for plus hit and plus power. ETA: 2026 Prime Projection: 82/23/86/.271/.340/.477/18

605) Alek Thomas ARI, OF, 18.11 – Selected 63rd overall in the 2018 draft, Thomas is a prototypical leadoff hitter with an advanced plate approach, plus speed, and the potential to hit 10+ bombs. He showed off those exact skills in his pro debut with a 13.6% K% and 12 steals in 56 games. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 89/12/61/.279/.358/.410/21

606) Corbin Martin HOU, RHP, 23.3 – 56th overall pick of the 2017 draft. Martin has made quick work of the minor leagues, rising to Double-A this year and putting up a pitching line of 2.97/1.09/96/28 in 103 IP. Houston knows a thing or two about developing pitchers. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 13/3.76/1.26/171 in 177 IP

607) Logan Allen SD, LHP, 21.10 – 4-pitch mix headlined by a low 90’s fastball and plus changeup. Doesn’t have a high ceiling but he knows how to pitch and is knocking on the door of the bigs.  ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 11/3.97/1.28/161 in 175 IP

608) Nick Gordon MIN, SS/2B, 23.5 – High floor player without a stand out tool but can chip in a little bit everywhere. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 76/13/60/.271/.333/.401/14

609) Dylan Carlson STL, OF, 20.6 – 33rd overall pick of the 2016 draft, the switch hitting Carlson has power from both sides of the plate and a strong plate approach. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 82/22/76/.271/.354/.463/6

610) Brice Turang MIL, SS, 19.4 – Selected 21st overall in the 2018 draft, Turang has a smooth lefty swing geared for line drives, a plus plate approach, and plus speed. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 83/14/68/.262/.339/.410/23

611) Mike Siani CIN, OF, 19.8 – 4th round pick in 2018 but signed for well above slot. Plus defensive centerfielder with plus speed and is advanced for his age at the plate. Power development will dictate his ceiling. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 83/14/61/.273/.347/.420/21

612) Daniel Lynch KC, LHP, 22.4 – Selected 34th overall in the 2018 draft, Lynch’s velocity ticked up at the end the of season to 93-95 MPH and dominated in his pro debut with a pitching line of 1.58/1.01/61/8 in 51.1 IP at Full-A. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/3.91/1.26/171 in 162

613) Derek Holland SF, LHP, 32.6 – Had one of the best seasons of his career in 2018 for San Francisco, with a pitching line of 3.57/1.29/169/67 in 171.1 IP. Resigning with them was a best case scenario for Holland.  2019 Projection: 8/4.11/1.32/143 in 155 IP

614) Greg Bird NYY, 1B, 26.5 – Health concerns, playing time concerns, and strikeout issues, but if he is in the lineup, he will hit dingers. 2019 Projection: 54/18/67/.235/.320/.439/0

615) Antoni Flores BOS, SS, 18.5 –  $1.4 million international signing in 2017. Great feel for making contact and will grow into more power. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 86/21/82/.289/.371/.469/8

616) Yasel Antuna WASH, SS, 19.6 – Signed for $3.9 million in 2016. Struggled in full season debut this year and then underwent Tommy John surgery in July. The potential for plus hit and plus power are still there, but is currently very raw at the plate. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 74/20/71/.271/.340/.445/10

617) Mason Denaburg WASH, RHP, 19.4 – 27th overall pick of the 2018 draft. Bicups injury before the draft scared a few teams off. 6’4”, 200 pounds with a plus fastball that can hit 97 MPH and a potentially plus curveball. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 13/3.89/1.29/185 in 180 IP

618) Cole Roederer CHC, OF, 19.6 – Selected 77th overall in the 2018 draft, Roederer had a great pro debut, slashing .275/.354/.465 with 5 homers, 13 steals, and a 37/18 K/BB in 36 games in rookie ball. He’s a potential 5-category producer. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 81/24/83/.265/.338/.471/10

619) Brennen Davis CHC, OF, 19.5 – Selected 62nd overall in the 2018 draft, Davis has the build of a basketball player at 6’4”, 175 pounds. He didn’t commit to playing baseball full time until his senior year of high school, and his dad, Reggie Theus, was an NBA All-Star. As you can expect, he is raw, but there is elite power/speed combo upside. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 84/20/77/.248/.328/.434/20

620) Julio Rodriguez SEA, OF, 18.3 – Ripped up the Dominican League, slashing .315/.404/.525 with 5 homes, 10 steals, and a 40/30 K/BB in 59 games. Rodriguez has double plus power and good instincts on the base paths. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 75/27/87/.250/.338/.486/8

621) Alexander Canario SF, OF, 18.11 – Plus power/speed combo but overall game is still raw. In stateside debut, slashed .250/.357/.403 with 6 homers, 8 steals, and a 51/27 K/BB in 45 games. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 78/22/81/.250/.335/.452/11

622) Noelvi Marte SEA, SS, 17.6 – Signed for $1.55 million in 2018. Marte has an advanced approach at the plate, plus speed, and the potential for plus raw power. He’s a lottery ticket, but the upside is elite. ETA: 2025 Prime Projection: 89/25/83/.275/.355/.482/15

623) Matt Thaiss LAA, 1B, 23.11 – Started lifting the ball more this year and it resulted in 16 homers in 125 games without a spike in strikeouts. He is high floor, low ceiling first baseman. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 73/21/81/.276/.347/.459/4

624) Tucker Barnhart CIN, C, 28.3 – High walk rates (10.3% in 2018) is standout skill. Everything else is fairly average for a catcher. 2019 Projection: 48/12/53/.256/.327/.380/2

625) Chance Sisco BAL, C, 24.1 – Struggled the past two seasons in Triple-A and the Majors, but talent is still there and catchers have been known to take a hot minute to develop. 2019 Projection: 26/7/31/.229/.300/.360/1 Prime Projection: 52/17/59/.257/.317/.425/2

626) Hunter Dozier KC, 3B, 27.7 – Lack of hit tool has held Dozier back. He has above average sprint speed and ranked 82nd overall in barrels per plate appearance. 2019 Projection: 55/17/59/.239/.308/.392/5

627) Jorge Bonifacio KC, OF, 25.10 – Returned from 80 game PED suspension in the 2nd half and could never get it going. Bonifacio is a flyball hitter but he doesn’t hit the ball all that hard. 2019 Projection: 47/13/42/.251/.317/.413/1

628) Keon Broxton NYM, OF, 28.11 – Elite power/speed combo but extreme swing and miss prevents him from fully tapping into it. 2019 Projection: 55/14/47/.219/.299/.408/17

629) Tony Santillan CIN, RHP, 22.0 – 6’3”, 240 pounds with a mid 90’s fastball, potential plus slider, and non deceptive delivery. Considering the ballpark he is going to pitch in, I’m not reaching for him. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 12/3.81/1.32/166 in 179 IP

630) Caleb Ferguson LAD, LHP, 22.9 – Likely to be used out of the pen in the near future, but could transition into a starting role in a few years. Two pitch pitcher (fastball/curve) who will need to develop a third pitch to thrive in the rotation. 2019 Projection: 5/3.76/1.29/81 in 75 IP Prime Projection: 13/3.75/1.26/172 in 180 IP

631) Brayan Rocchio CLE, SS, 18.4 – Traditional leadoff hitter profile. Makes great contact, has plus speed, and has surprising pop for his size. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 87/10/61/.280/.350/.407/26

632) Wenceel Perez DET, SS, 19.5 – 11.3% K% in 71 PA in Full-A as an 18-year-old. Plus hit, plus speed, and should develop 10+ homer pop. ETA: 2022/23 Prime Projection: 90/12/53/.288/.336/.398/23

633) Calvin Mitchell PIT, OF, 20.1 – Selected 50th overall in the 2017 draft, Mitchell had an excellent Full-A debut, slashing .280/.344/.427 with 10 homers and a 109/41 K/BB in 119 games. He has a strong plate approach with the potential for plus hit and plus power. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 77/23/84/.276/.349/.474/5

634) Kyle Lewis SEA, OF, 23.9 – Hasn’t been the same since that horrific knee injury in 2016 pro debut. Power and speed have both been greatly diminished. This is a bet that his old skills will return the further removed he gets from the injury ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 73/23/81/.263/.340/.459/4

635) Chad Kuhl PIT, RHP, 26.7 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in September and is expected to miss all of 2019. When healthy, he throws a mid 90’s fastball and sinker with two positive value secondaries in his slider and curveball. 2019 Projection: OUT Prime Projection: 11/4.15/1.34/155 in 160 IP

636) Asdrubal Cabrera TEX, 2B/3B/SS, 33.5 – Should get close to full time at bats at 3B after signing with Texas. 2019 Projection: 65/19/61/.265/.319/.438/2

637) Tyler Mahle CIN, RHP, 24.6 – Both of his main secondary pitches (slider and changeup) got hit hard last season, and his 93.1 MPH isn’t dominant enough to rely on. 2019 Projection: 7/4.52/1.42/123 in 130 IP Prime Projection: 10/4.13/1.34/171 in 173 IP

638) Gio Gonzalez FA, LHP, 33.7 – His great 2017 stats were a mirage. 2018 is much closer to who he is now. 2019 Projection: 9/4.21/1.35/151 in 165 IP

639) Zach Davies MIL, RHP, 26.2 – Shoulder injury limited Davies to only 13 starts in 2018. No guarantee of a rotation spot, but he doesn’t have the type of stuff that plays up in the bullpen, so he might win the job by default. 2019 Projection: 10/4.21/1.34/121 in 150 IP

640) Frankie Montas OAK, RHP, 26.0 – Has the big velocity, but lacks control/command and a third pitch. 2019 Projection: 8/4.41/1.39/105 in 130 IP

641) Alex Cobb BAL, RHP, 31.6 – Dominated post all star break with a pitching line of 2.56/1.16/39/18 in 59.2 IP. It will help if he pitches well enough for Baltimore to trade him during the season. 2019 Projection: 7/4.23/1.32/121 in 160 IP

642) Brad Keller KC, RHP, 23.8 – Groundball pitcher with a 6.7 degree launch angle against, but is going to have to improve on his 6.16 K/9 to avoid major regression. 2019 Projection: 8/4.25/1.36/110 in 160 IP

643) Dakota Hudson STL, RHP, 24.7 – Hard throwing, ground ball pitcher. Likely to come out of the bullpen for the foreseeable future. 2019 Projection: 3.79/1.33/61/2 in 78 IP Prime Projection: 3.95/1.34/146 in 175 IP

644) Kolby Allard ATL, LHP, 21.8 – Advanced beyond his years but will need his fastball to tick up in velocity to become anything more than a soft-tossing back end starter. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 9/4.06/1.29/155 in 170 IP

645) Mike Fiers OAK, RHP, 33.10 – Biggest allure is that he might be able to rack up wins with Oakland’s offense, but he isn’t going to help that much in any other category. 2019 Projection: 10/4.18/1.30/130 in 160 IP

646) Yandy Diaz TB, 3B/1B, 27.9 – Known for his insane popcorn muscles and insanely low FB % (23.3%). Tampa is going to try to unleash that raw power. 2019 Projection: 48/7/41/.274/.351/.398/2

647) Albert Pujols LAA, 1B, 39.2 – Has the honor of being the slowest player in baseball. Still hits the ball hard and still posts strong strikeout rates, so he’s not completely washed up yet. 2019 Projection: 56/22/71/.248/.293/.417/1

648) Mike Leake SEA, RHP, 31.5 – Soft tossing righty who is capable of hot streaks when he is locked in, but lack of stuff means there is always a clunker around the corner. 2019 Projection: 9/4.24/1.31/111 in 170 IP

649) Ivan Nova CHW, RHP, 32.2 – Induces groundballs with a heavy, sinking fastball, but doesn’t miss enough bats to provide fantasy upside. 2019 Projection: 9/4.28/1.34/125 in 170 IP

650) Wei-Yin Chen MIA, LHP, 33.8 – Severely cut down on his sinker usage and replaced it with more sliders, which is his best secondary pitch. 2019 Projection: 7/4.24/1.30/126 in 148 IP

651) Matt Shoemaker TOR, RHP, 32.6 – Surgery on his forearm kept Shoemaker out for most of 2018, but when he returned in September his stuff looked mostly the same. 2019 Projection: 7/4.16/1.31/120 in 130 IP

652) Ben Zobrist CHC, OF/2B, 37.10 – Age and low ceiling makes it tough to value Zobrist very high in Dynasty, but he bounced back in 2018, and Joe Maddon loves him. 2019 Projection: 64/11/55/.278/.360/.427/4

653) Domingo German NYY, RHP, 26.8 – Mid 90’s heat with a plus curveball and developing changeup. When injuries inevitably strike the Yanks injury prone rotation, German should get plenty of starts. 2019 Projection: 6/4.17/1.32/103 in 99 IP

654) Will Smith LAD, C/3B, 24.0 – There is a brewing logjam at catcher in LA between Austin Barnes, Kiebert Ruiz, and Smith, which is the reason Smith got some work at 3B this season. Smith is shaping up to be a classic high K, patience and power catcher. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 56/19/54/.237/.317/.418/3

655) Kyle Muller ATL, LHP, 21.6 – 6’6”, 225 pound lefty who performed well across three levels of minor league ball in 2018, culminating with a pitching line of 3.10/0.97/27/6 in 29 IP at Double-A. ETA: Late 2020 Prime Projection: 14/3.81/1.25/179 in 190 IP

656) Jay Groome BOS, LHP, 20.7 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in May. Before the injury, Groome was consistently in the mid 90’s, flashed a plus curveball and a changeup that showed improvement. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 11/3.85/1.32/191 in 180 IP

657) Evan White SEA, 1B, 23.1 – Selected 17th overall in the 2017 draft, White is a hit over power first baseman who sprays line drives over the entire field. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 76/19/81/.276/.345/.443/6

658) Lazaro Armenteros OAK, OF, 19.10 – Signed for $3 million in 2016, Armenteros already has an MLB ready body with plus power and a patient plate approach. 33.8% K% at Full-A will have to improve. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 77/25/86/.253/.344/.478/9

659) Connor Scott MIA, OF, 19.6 – 13th overall pick of the 2018 draft. Scott is a projectable 6’4”, 180 pounds with plus speed as best skill, while BA and power lag behind. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 81/16/67/.266/.330/.418/23

660) Nick Schnell TB, OF, 19.0 – 32nd overall pick of the 2018 draft. 6’3”, 180 pounds with a plus power/speed combo, but 28% K% in pro debut shows there is plenty of work to do. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 83/18/64/.266/.345/.431/18

661) Dan Straily MIA, RHP, 30.4 – 90.9 MPH fastball with a plus slider as his only valuable pitch. 2019 Projections: 8/4.31/1.32/141 in 164 IP

662) Luis Oviedo CLE, RHP, 19.11 – Lottery ticket arm. At 6’4”, with a mid 90’s fastball and 3 secondary pitches (curve, slider, changeup), Oviedo has all of the ingredients to be an impact starter. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 12/3.71/1.25/180 in 180 IP

663) Shane Baz TB, RHP, 19.10 – 12th overall pick in the 2017 draft. Mid to upper 90’s fastball with everything else still raw. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 12/3.91/1.33/169 in 158 IP

664) Shane McClanahan TB, LHP, 21.11 – 31st pick of the 2018 draft. 120/48 K/BB in 76 IP in the ACC. High bullpen/opener risk, especially considering Tampa’s recent pitcher use, but if he can improve his control/command the upside is considerable. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/3.81/1.32/153 in 135 IP

665) Brailyn Marquez CHC, LHP, 20.2 – 6’4” lefty with a mid 90’s fastball that he slings from a low arm slot. Doesn’t have major control issues, but secondaries need improvement. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 11/3.73/1.26/168 in 156 IP

666) Grayson Rodriguez BAL, RHP, 19.4 – 11th overall pick in the 2018 draft. 6’5”, 220 pound beast with good stuff but still raw. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 13/3.76/1.30/178 in 185 IP

667) Sergio Romo MIA, Setup/Closer, 36.1 – In the running to win the closer job in Miami, but even if he wins it, he may not hold onto it for a variety of reasons (performance, trade, injury). 2019 Projection: 3/4.01/1.24/64/13 in 60 IP

668) Joakim Soria OAK, Setup, 34.11 – Next man up in Oakland. Soria had the best swinging strike rate (14.5%) of his career in 2018. 2019 Projection: 4/3.41/1.21/69/6 in 65 IP

669) Ryan Brasier BOS, Setup, 31.7 – Might find himself closing games if Boston doesn’t sign a back end reliever, but I doubt that happens. Brasier mainly throws a 97 MPH fastball, 97.1 MPH sinker, and 85.6 MPH slider. 2019 Projection: 4/3.61/1.25/65/7 in 65 IP.

670) Colin Poche TB, Setup, 25.5 – Setup men are by far the easiest position to find on the cheap in saves leagues, with random guys popping up all the time, which is why this list doesn’t have a ton of them ranked. But Poche’s numbers were too insane to miss, with a pitching line of 0.82/0.79/100/19 in 66 IP spent mostly at Triple-A. 2019 Projection: 4/3.41/1.18/58 in 50 IP

671) Luis Rengifo LAA, 2B, 22.1 – Slashed .299/.399/.452 with 7 homers, 41 steals, and a 75/75 K/BB split between 3 levels (High-A, Double-A, Triple-A). Isn’t a pure burner, but has excellent stolen base instincts. Utility infielder risk due to limited power projection. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 77/9/53/.267/.343/.390/20

672) Ryan Vilade COL, SS, 20.1 – Struggled to hit for power in his full season debut with a 52.9% GB%, but he was able to show off his advanced plate approach with a 96/49 K/BB in 124 games. The power should come down the line. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 83/20/82/.279/.356/.461/8

673) Kyle Isbel KC, 22.1 – 3rd round pick in the 2018 draft. Solid tools across the board. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 78/19/71/.263/.326/.435/11

674) Jake McCarthy ARI, OF, 21.8 – Selected 39th overall in the 2018 draft, McCarthy has plus speed and a good feel to hit. How much power he is able to tap into will determine his ultimate ceiling. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 76/14/59/.266/.334/.418/20

675) Miguel Amaya CHC, C, 20.1 – Strong full season debut as a teenager in Full-A, slashing .256/.349/.403 with 12 homers and a 91/50 K/BB in 116 games. A lock to stick at catcher with the potential to be a plus defender. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 58/18/67/.264/.341/.438/1

676) Josh Harrison DET, 2B, 31.9 – Detroit’s everyday second baseman. Strikeout rate and sprint speed are headed in the wrong direction. 2019 Projection: 66/13/62/.259/.310/.391/10

677) Brian McCann ATL, C, 34.1 – 2nd slowest sprint speed in baseball, finishing ahead of only Albert Pujols. Expected to be the strong side of the platoon with Tyler Flowers. 2019 Projection: 40/15/51/.232/.321/.415/0

678) Jung-ho Kang PIT, 3B, 32.0 – Missed almost all of the last two seasons after getting his 3rd DUI in South Korea. Career MLB slash line of .274/.355/.482 with 36 homers in 745 at-bats is too good to ignore. 2019 Projection: 46/13/51/.263/.339/.458/2

679) Ian Kinsler SD, 2B, 36.9 – Has maintained his excellent contract percentage (12%) and FB% (42%) profile. He didn’t hit the ball very hard in 2018, but he has never been a big exit velocity guy. 2019 Projection: 75/15/58/.248/.314/.407/14

680) Clay Buchholz TOR, RHP, 34.8 – Put up a pitching line of 2.01/1.04/81/22 in 2018, but a lot of that was BABIP luck, and fastball continued to decline to a career low 90.7 MPH 2019 Projection: 7/3.91/1.30/111 in 130 IP

681) Freddy Galvis TOR, SS, 29.5 – Signing with Toronto seems to give him an everyday job. Moderate power/speed combo who won’t help anywhere else. 2019 Projection: 62/14/65/.248/.297/.381/10

682) Chris Davis BAL, 1B, 33.0 – Extreme batting average drain and declining power. 2019 Projection: 51/23/60/.207/.298/.401/1

683) Alen Hanson SF, 2B/OF, 26.6 – Super utility player. Plus speed with a poor plate approach and well below average exit velocities. 2019 Projection: 48/9/43/.253/.297/.401/10

684) Alex Gordon KC, OF, 35.2 – Still chips in enough steals to have value in deeper leagues. 2019 Projection: 54/15/52/.240/.320/.398/8

685) Jared Hughes CIN, Setup, 33.9 – Hughes should be the biggest beneficiary of the news that Raisel Iglesias will be used in a variety of roles in 2019. I expect he will see a fair number of opportunities, and is next man up in general if anything happens to Iglesias. 2019 Projection: 4/3.34/1.27/51/11 in 67 IP

686) Craig Stammen SD, Setup, 35.1 – If Yates gets traded, Stammen is next man up in San Diego if he doesn’t get traded himself. 2019 Projection: 5/3.38/1.19/70/10 in 70 IP

687) Mark Melancon SF, Setup, 34.0 – I wouldn’t be surprised if Melancon made his way back into the closer role at some point due to a trade or injury to Smith, but also because Bruce Bochy has refused to name Smith his closer on multiple occasions this off-season. 2019 Projection: 3/3.69/1.32/54/12 in 60 IP

688) Brandon Drury TOR, 3B, 26.8 – Nothing flashy, but has consistently made hard contact throughout his career. Injuries and lack of playing time tanked his 2018. 2019 Projection: 48/12/50/.258/.306/.417/1

689) Adam Duvall ATL, OF, 30.7 – Batting averaged plummeted in 2018 in part due to a .237 BABIP. OBP and BA won’t be pretty, but he’ll crank homers if given the playing time. 2019 Projection: 44/15/56/.233/.291/.435/2

690) Dexter Fowler STL, OF, 33.0 – Average exit velocity and FB/LD exit velocity dropped about 3 MPH to 85.3 MPH and 89.1 MPH, respectively. Almost certainly will be benched against lefties, and there is a real chance he is a 4th outfielder by the end of the season. 2019 Projection: 57/11/52/.248/.346/.404/6

691) Yolmer Sanchez CHW, 3B, 26.9 – He’ll chip in a few steals and not much else. Plus defense at 3B is the only thing keeping him in the lineup. 2019 Projection: 61/10/54/.247/.309/.380/13

692) Chris Owings KC, OF, 27.8 – Skilled base stealer with a career mark of 70 steals in 83 attempts. 2019 Projection: 47/10/39/.253/.304/.389/13

693) Eduardo Nunez BOS, 2B/3B, 31.10 – Super utility player who should see at-bats all over the field. 2019 Projection: 51/8/43/.277/.313/.414/9

694) Chris Iannetta COL, C, 36.0 – Power, patience, and strikeouts. 2019 Projection: 39/14/46/.233/.346/.418/0

695) Jedd Gyorko STL, 3B, 30.6 – Career high BB% (10.9%) and K% (19.2%). Absolutely mashes lefties, putting up a .919 OPS against them in 2018 and .975 OPS in 2017. 2019 Projection: 52/14/54/.265/.342/.448/3

696) Mikie Mahtook DET, OF, 29.4 – Average power with above average speed and a high strikeout rate (26.4%). In line for a lot of playing time in Detroit. 2019 Projection: 48/13/50/.240/.300/.414/6

697) Andrew Suarez SF, LHP, 26.7 – Control and command lefty who throws a 5 pitch mix without any standout pitches. 2019 Projection: 6/4.08/1.32/93 in 110 IP

698) Tyler Austin MIN, 1B, 27.7 – 35.4% K% but crushes the ball when he does make contact with a 15.1 degree launch angle and 95.9 MPH FB/LD avg exit velocity. 2019 Projection: 43/15/51/.236/.300/.441/1

699) Tyler Freeman CLE, 2B, 19.10 – Contact rate king, posting a 7.3% mark at short season ball. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 82/11/59/.281/.336/.405/16

700) Adam Engel CHW, OF, 27.4 – 4th fastest sprint speed in MLB at 30.1 MPH is only positive fantasy skill. Will hurt you everywhere but stolen bases. 2019 Projection: 51/8/37/.230/.271/.330/15

701) Brian Goodwin KC, OF, 28.5 – There is enough power and speed in here to make a real impact if he can improve his K% and/or have some BABIP luck. 2019 Projection: 48/12/41/.241/.310/.402/9

702) Jake Cave MIN, OF, 26.4 – 33% K%, 5.8% BB%, and 30.6% FB%, but was 28th overall in barrels per plate appearance. Nelson Cruz signing blocks path to playing time. 2019 Projection: 43/11/35/.255/.310/.433/4

703) Phil Ervin CIN, OF, 26.10 – Former 1st round pick. Moderate power/speed combo with a 24.3% K%. Poor outfield defense might keep him from a starting job, but he has fantasy friendly skills if he does get in the lineup. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 78/15/63/.253/.334/.418/15

704) Austin Gomber STL, LHP, 25.4 – Doesn’t have overpowering stuff, but uses a 4 pitch mix to induce weak contact. Will compete for 5th starter job in Spring. 2019 Projection: 6/4.23/1.36/79 in 90 IP Prime Projection: 12/3.90/1.31/160 in 175 IP

705) Pablo Lopez MIA, RHP, 23.1 – Pitched well in MLB debut with a pitching line of 4.14/1.26/46/18 in 58.2 IP. Lopez has plus command of a traditional 3 pitch mix. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 10/3.85/1.26/149 in 165 IP

706) Albert Almora Jr. CHC, OF, 25.0 – Good feel to hit is only plus fantasy skill. 2019 Projection: 52/8/43/.281/.321/.399/3

707) Moises Gomez TB, OF, 20.7 – Plus raw power with a 32.9% GB% is a great combo, but hit tool is still raw. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 65/23/79/.255/.322/.451/5

708) Daniel Johnson CLE, OF, 23.9 – Tooled up with at least plus speed and solid raw power. Too aggressive at the dish but does have some feel to hit. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 78/14/59/.259/.322/408/19

709) Lucas Erceg MIL, 3B, 23.11 – Erceg has disappointed the last two seasons after dominating in his pro debut in 2016. The good feel to hit and plus power have still shined through though. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 73/20/81/.265/.322/.449/3

710) Nick Kingham PIT, RHP, 27.5 – Throws 6 pitches but none are dominant. 2019 Projection: 5/4.39/1.36/119 in 135 IP

711) Daniel Norris DET, LHP, 26.0 – Fastball dropped to 90.7 MPH returning from core muscle surgery at the end of the season. The 51 strikeouts in 44.1 IP shows some of that big strikeout upside is still in there. 2019 Projection: 6/4.35/1.38/96 in 100 IP

712) Jharel Cotton OAK, RHP, 27.2 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in March 2018. With the state of Oakland’s rotation, Cotton could be starting for them by June. 2019 Projection: 6/4.51/1.35/79 in 94 IP

713) Shed Long SEA, 2B, 23.7 – 23.6% K% and 54.6% GB% is not a good combo, but he does have good raw power and some speed. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 73/19/67/.252/.331/.437/12

714) Lolo Sanchez PIT, OF, 20.0 – Plus defense and plus speed with everything else still raw. Potential for plus hit but not much power projection. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 86/13/66/.272/.354/.408/25

715) Shelby Miller TEX, RHP, 28.6 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in May 2017, basically keeping him out for two full seasons. His mid 90’s velocity did return in the 16 innings he pitched this season, but it was with a 10.69 ERA. 2019 Projection: 6/4.49/1.38/103 in 120 IP

716) Tyson Ross DET, RHP, 32.0 – Slider isn’t as elite as it once was, although it is still a valuable pitch. 2019 Projection: 7/4.57/1.36/126 in 150 IP

717) Kelvin Herrera CHW, Setup, 29.3 – Indications are that Colome is the favorite for saves, although nothing has been announced. Herrera is still recovering from Lisfranc surgery which ended his season in August. He still throws gas, although his velocity dropped on all of his pitches in 2018. 2019 Projection: 3/3.55/1.22/53/8 in 55 IP

718) Trevor May MIN, Setup, 29.7 – 4 pitch mix headlined by his mid 90’s fastball. 2019 Projection: 3/3.62/1.23/75/10 in 63 IP

719) Aaron Altherr PHI, OF, 28.3 – Hits the ball hard and is very fast, but 31.9% K% might keep him in a bench role. 2019 Projection: 36/9/39/.233/.319/.401/4

720) Joey Wentz ATL, LHP, 21.6 – Injury filled season prevented Wentz from showing his best stuff, but a strong start to 2019 will put Wentz back on the radar. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 12/3.92/1.31/152 in 160 IP

721) Tony Gonsolin LAD, RHP, 24.11 – 2018 was his first year as a full time starter and it was a smashing success, with a pitching line of 2.60/1.14/155/42 in 128 IP split between High-A and Double-A. He has a 4 pitch mix headlined by a mid 90’s fastball, plus curveball, and a split fingered changeup. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 12/3.96/1.31/162 in 165 IP

722) Clarke Schmidt NYY, RHP, 23.1 – 16th overall pick in 2017 draft. Returned form Tommy John surgery late in the season and his stuff mostly returned. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 12/3.93/1.27/167 in 171 IP

723) Shervyen Newton NYM, SS, 20.0 – 6’4”, 180 pounds with projection for plus to double plus power. Works deep counts with very high strikeout and walk rates. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 73/26/81/.250/.340/.474/5

724) Albert Abreu NYY, RHP, 23.6 – Elite pure stuff but still very raw. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 10/3.92/1.34/158 in 155 IP

725) Stephen Gonsalves MIN, LHP, 24.10 – Low velocity, high spin rate pitcher who has a mid rotation ceiling. ETA: Mid 2019 Prime Projection: 11/4.03/1.33/158 in 167 IP

726) Bo Naylor CLE, C, 19.1 – Selected 28th overall pick in 2018 draft, Naylor was praised for having one of the best hit tools in the draft. Has Kiebert Ruiz/Francisco Mejia prospect hype upside. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 68/20/82/.275/.351/.452/6

727) Jordan Yamamoto MIA, RHP, 22.11 – Numbers over scouting type of prospect. Battled shoulder problems last season, but still managed to put up a pitching line of 1.83/0.83/85/14 in 68.2 IP split between High-A, Double-A, and Rookie Ball. 4 pitch mix and throws from multiple arm angles. He’s crafty. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 12/4.02/1.29/158 in 162 IP

728) Vladimir Gutierrez CIN, RHP, 23.7 – Signed for $4.7 million in 2016, Gutierrez has a solid 3 pitch mix and got better as the season wore on at Double-A. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 11/4.03/1.26/171 in 175 IP

729) Alec Hansen CHW, RHP, 24.6 – Took a major step back this year (6.31 ERA in 51.1 IP) but still has the mid-90’s heat and swing and miss breaking balls. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 10/4.27/1.35/168 in 157 IP

730) Darwinzon Hernandez BOS, LHP, 22.4 – Mid to upper 90’s fastball with a potentially plus slider. Bullpen risk but K upside is high if he starts. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/3.87/1.35/171 in 155 IP

731) Framber Valdez HOU, LHP, 25.5 – Should compete for a starting job in spring training. Plus curveball is his best pitch, but will need to develop a changeup or cutter to consistently get righties out. 2019 Projection: 6/4.18/1.35/89 in 93 IP

732) Jose Suarez LAA, LHP, 21.3 – Short and stocky with a plus changeup and advanced feel for pitching. Suarez has been a strikeout machine the last two years before hitting the PCL this season and struggling a bit. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 12/3.78/1.29/169 in 175 IP

733) Lucius Fox TB, SS, 21.9 – Signing bonus of $6 million in 2015. Fox has double plus speed but hit tool and power have not developed yet. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 77/9/52/.262/.328/.369/21

734) Richard Gallardo CHC, RHP, 17.7 – The consensus top pitcher in the 2018 international signing period, Gallardo has advanced pitchability with a curveball that already flashes plus, a low 90’s fastball which should tick up as he ages, and feel for a changeup. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 13/3.55/1.22/180 in 180 IP

735) Matt Davidson FA, 1B, 28.0 – Hits it hard and hits it in the air but 33.3% K% will limit how many at-bats he is given. Expected to be used out of the bullpen as well. 2019 Projection: 37/15/43/.225/.294/.431/0 — 1/4.43/1.35/17 in 22 IP

736) Michael Taylor WASH, OF, 28.0 – Locked into 4th OF duty with Robles taking his rightful claim to the throne. Taylor has superstar raw tools but his consistent 30+% K% with little sign of improvement has held him back. 2019 Projection: 43/9/37/.231/.290/.388/15

737) Kolten Wong STL, 2B, 28.6 – Strong side of a platoon bat. Below average exit velocity and high groundball rates, but he makes good contact and will chip in a few steals. 2019 Projection: 48/9/41/.260/.340/.403/6

738) Nick Solak TB, 2B, 24.2 – Plus speed and a good feel to hit, but a 52.4% GB% is going to limit power. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 76/15/69/.274/.339/.426/17

739) Jorge Mateo OAK, SS, 23.9 – 80 grade speed should keep Mateo fantasy relevant even if he ends up in a bench role, which by the looks of the numbers he put up in Triple-A (.230/.280/.353), that is very well where he may end up. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 53/7/41/.242/.298/.381/21

740) Chavez Young TOR, OF, 21.9 – Plus athlete with above average tools across the board. Slashed .285/.363/.445 with 8 homers, 44 steals, and a 100/58 K/BB in 125 games at Full-A. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 79/15/74/.268/.333/.416/17

741) Garrett Whitley TB, OF, 22.1 – Former 13th overall pick in 2015, Whitley has his best season in the minors in 2018, lowering his GB% to 40.3% and hitting 13 homers in 104 games at Full-A. Old for the level and 28.6% K% dampens some of the enthusiasm. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 76/18/74/.244/.321/.422/15

742) Aramis Ademan CHC, SS, 20.6 – Consistently young for his level, but the production has been very bad, with a career .234 batting average (.207 in 2018 at High-A) in the minor leagues. He has a smooth swing that could produce higher averages in the future, but the power/speed upside isn’t very high either. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 78/14/59/.273/.339/.402/15

743) Tyler Stephenson CIN, C, 22.8 – Selected 11th overall in 2015, Stephenson is 6’4”, 225 pounds with the potential to be your typical low average, solid pop catcher. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 51/18/56/.242/.312/.409/1

744) Jose Siri CIN, OF, 23.8 – Plus raw power and speed, but a 32.2% K% at Double-A could keep him from locking down a starting role. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 68/15/61/.238/.296/.403/18

745) Micker Adolfo CHW, OF, 22.6 – Big time power, average speed, and a raw hit tool. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 68/22/81/.248/.323/.450/5

746) Kris Bubic KC, LHP, 21.8 – Selected 40th overall in the 2018 draft, Bubic has a funky, lefty delivery with a plus changeup that racks up strikeouts, but has some control/command issues. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 11/3.82/1.33/164 in 157 IP

747) Jhailyn Ortiz PHI, OF, 20.4 – Disappointing full season debut after a hyped 2017 in short season ball. Swing didn’t look explosive all season, but a shoulder injury early in the year could have been part of the problem. I would give it one more year before jumping ship. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 76/28/89/.250/.327/.472/3

748) Sherten Apostel TEX, 3B, 20.1 – Physical beast with plus raw power and patient approach at the plate. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 77/28/89/.258/.353/.492/2

749) Mac Williamson SF, OF, 28.9 – He’ll give you some power and has above average sprint speed but isn’t a base stealer 2019 Projection: 49/14/55/.242/.307/.425/4

750) Nicky Lopez KC, 2B/SS, 24.1 – Production over tools. 11.3% K%, 10.5% BB%, 15 steals, and 9 homers in 130 games split between Double-A and Triple-A. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 72/9/57/.278/.341/.396/14

751) Taylor Widener ARI, RHP, 24.5 – Has done nothing but dominate the minors since being drafted in the 12th round in 2016. In 2018, he went to Double-A and put up a pitching line of 2.75/1.03/176/43 in 137.1 IP. He has an MLB quality fastball that sits 92-93 MPH and recently made big strides with his changeup. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/3.83/1.30/170 in 177 IP

752) TJ Friedl CIN, OF, 23.8 – Fourth outfielder risk but with double plus speed he should contribute in stolen bases even if he gets only 300-400 at-bats per year. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 68/5/41/.271/.338/.371/20

753) Luis Gonzalez CHW, OF, 23.7 – Old for the level, but displayed average to above average tools across the board at Full-A and Advanced-A. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 72/17/69/.258/.326/.429/10

754) Jeisson Rosario SD, OF, 19.6 – Advanced plate approach with above average speed. Rosario slashed .271/.368/.353 with 3 homers, 18 steals, and a 108/66 K/BB in 117 games at Full-A. Ceiling will be based on how much power he can add. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 86/11/61/.275/.358/.409/19

755) Junior Santos NYM, RHP, 17.8 – Signed for $275,000 in 2017. Santos is an athletic 6’8”, 220 pounds, and so thoroughly dominated the DSL the Mets brought him stateside to finish the season with 3 relief appearances in the GCL. He has low 90’s heat which should tick up as he ages, a plus changeup, and feel for a slider. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 12/3.75/1.25/175 in 180 IP

756) Grayson Greiner DET, C, 26.4 – Posting about league average exit velocities in MLB debut is a good sign that his power will play in the majors. 2019 Projection: 41/12/49/.231/.302/.379/0

757) Omar Narvaez SEA, C, 27.1 – Moderate power breakout last season with a career high 9 homers in 280 at-bats. He doesn’t hit the ball all that hard, but he has a solid plate approach and is a career .274 hitter. 2019 Projection: 42/8/46/.264/.352/.398/0

758) David Peterson NYM, LHP, 23.7 – Safe, low upside starter. Pounds the strikezone with a low 90’s fastball, a slurvy breaking ball, and fringe changeup. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 14/3.81/1.26/173 in 186 IP

759) Patrick Weigel ATL, RHP, 24.9 – Returned from Tommy John surgery at the very end of the season. Mid 90’s fastball that can hit triple digits is the feature attraction if healthy. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 11/4.09/1.32/151 in 158 IP

760) Beau Burrows DET, RHP, 22.7 – MLB quality fastball but secondaries lag behind. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 9/4.22/1.34/155 in 167 IP

761) Jackson Kowar KC, RHP, 22.6 – Selected 33rd overall in the 2018 draft, Kower has easy velocity and a plus changeup, but breaking ball and control/command need improvement. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/4.08/1.34/138 in 151 IP

762) Anthony Alford TOR, OF, 24.8 – Down season at Triple-A in 2018, but Alford was always more raw than his age would indicate because of his football background. The raw tools are still there. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 79/17/73/.263/.328/.428/16

763) Michael Grove LAD, RHP, 22.4 – Underwent Tommy John surgery 9 starts into sophomore year and missed all of junior year, but the Dodgers still drafted him 68th overall and paid him well above slot. When healthy, he has a plus fastball/slider combo with a developing changeup. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 11/3.87/1.30/150 in 160 IP

764) Mickey Moniak PHI, OF, 20.11 – The precocious hit tool that was expected was clearly over hyped, but there is still potential for a solid across the board player. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 75/15/58/.273/.337/.413/14

765) Seth Romero WASH, LHP, 23.0 – 25th overall pick of the 2017 draft. Underwent Tommy John surgery in September and will miss all of 2019. When healthy, Romero has major strikeout stuff with a wipeout slider, plus fastball, and plus changeup. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/3.81/1.30/163 in 150 IP

766) Braxton Garrett MIA, LHP, 21.8 – 7th overall pick of the 2016 draft. Tommy John surgery early in the 2017 season prevented Garrett from getting any extended action in pro ball. Before the injury, he displayed a plus curveball and was relatively polished for his age. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 12/3.81/1.27/161 in 170 IP

767) Lenny Torres CLE, RHP, 18.6 – Selected 41st overall in the 2018 draft, Torres has a plus fastball that can touch the upper 90’s with a slider that flashes plus and developing changeup. Pitching line of 1.76/1.17/22/4 in 15.1 IP pro debut. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 12/3.72/1.26/181 in 176 IP

768) Simeon Woods Richardson NYM, RHP, 18.6 – Selected 48th overall in the 2018 draft, Richardson is your classic high upside pitching prospect with a fastball that can hit 97 MPH and an advanced feel for a curveball. Put up a 26/4 K/BB in 17.1 IP in his pro debut. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 12/3.71/1.23/175 in 175 IP

769) Trevor Rogers MIA, LHP, 21.5 – 13th overall pick of the 2017 draft. Funky three quarter arm slot lefty who struggled in his pro debut, but should not fall off the radar. 26% K% shows potential. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 11/3.81/1.32/171 in 165 IP

770) Tyler Anderson COL, LHP, 29.3 – Doesn’t have a true standout pitch and pitches half his games at Coors. He should be serviceable, but this is just not the kind of pitcher I go after. 2019 Projection: 9/4.41/1.32/156 in 165 IP

771) Felix Hernandez SEA, RHP, 33.0 – Cut fastball percentage down to 9.6% last season, which is the start of the transition that many former aces have to go through in their mid to late 30’s. It might take another season, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Felix still had some useful seasons left. 2019 Projection: 7/4.58/1.35/120 in 150 IP

772) JaCoby Jones DET, OF, 27.1 – Raw tools are there to be a valuable fantasy player, but 30.4% K% and 5.1% BB% is holding him back. 2019 Projection: 57/13/39/.216/.274/.373/14

773) Ryan Borucki TOR, RHP, 25.0 – Plus changeup is best pitch. Likely a back end starter with mid rotation as his ceiling. 2019 Projection: 8/4.31/1.41/113 in 140 IP

774) Antonio Senzatela COL, RHP, 24.2 – Mainly a fastball/slider pitcher but started to mix in his changeup and curveball more in 2018. There is some upside here, but Coors prevents me from buying in too hard. 2019 Projection: 9/4.33/1.35/122 in 150 IP

775) Peter Lambert COL, RHP, 22.0 – Solid 4 pitch mix with advanced feel for the art of pitching and plus command/control. 106/27/K/BB in 148 IP shows he isn’t going to provide major strikeout totals. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 12/3.89/1.26/155 in 180 IP

776) Willi Castro DET, SS, 22.0 – Plus defender and above average speed, but hit and power are still underdeveloped. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 73/12/61/.258/.311/.387/15

777) Bryan Abreu HOU, RHP, 22.0 – Rode a plus curveball to a 68/17 K/BB in 38.1 IP in Full-A. Old for the level and limited innings but can’t argue with that strikeout rate. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 11/3.88/1.31/164 in 155 IP

778) Jhoan Duran MIN, RHP, 21.3 – Centerpiece of the Eduardo Escobar deal. Generates whiffs and groundballs, but needs to work on control/command. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/4.21/1.34/140 in 150 IP

779) Alex Faedo DET, RHP, 23.5 – 18th overall pick of the 2017 draft. Velocity backed up on all of his pitches this season, with his fastball down to 89-92 MPH. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/4.18/1.29/148 in 157 IP

780) Troy Stokes Jr. MIL, OF, 23.2 – Plus power and plus speed with high walk rates and high strikeout rates. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 66/19/61/.243/.327/.442/12

781) Drew Ellis ARI, 3B, 23.4 – Selected 44th overall in the 2017 draft, Ellis had a 49.9% FB% in his first full pro season at High-A, to go along with a solid 98/52 K/BB in 120 games. Hit 20 homers at Louisville in his draft year. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 72/22/81/.248/.326/.461/3

782) Jeren Kendall LAD, OF, 23.2 – Selected 23rd overall in the 2017 draft, Kendall has an elite speed/power combo (12 homers and 37 steals in 114 games at High-A) with a 40 grade hit tool (32% K%). ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 68/13/54/.225/.293/.390/21

783) Jake Burger CHW, 3B, 23.0 – Out for all of 2018 after tearing his Achilles and then tearing it again during rehab. When healthy, he had a solid approach at the plate and plus raw power, but was likely destined for 1B even before the injury. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 64/22/79/.263/.336/.462/2

784) Greg Deichmann OAK, OF, 23.10 – Wrist injury which required surgery in September tanked his 2018, but when healthy, he has double plus raw power and has a good feel to hit. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 73/24/81/.258/.331/.452/0

785) Mariel Bautista CIN, OF, 21.6 – 5-category upside with the plus tools to back it up, but Bautista still hasn’t made it out of rookie ball, so I wouldn’t trust the numbers. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 76/18/69/.268/.325/.423/16

786) Josiah Gray LAD, RHP, 21.3 – Raw for his age because he was recently converted to pitcher, but Gray possesses a potential plus fastball/slider combo and an athletic delivery which should eventually translate to good control/command. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 12/3.81/1.22/159 in 164 IP

787) Thomas Szapucki NYM, LHP, 22.10 – Tommy John surgery kept Szapucki out for the entire 2018 season. He was a favorite of mine entering 2017, with a plus fastball and curveball, to go along with a developing changeup. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/3.72/1.34/138 in 142 IP

788) Jojo Romero PHI, LHP, 22.7 – Diverse pitch mix that all flash above average but nothing standout or dominant. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 11/3.96/1.32/149 in 163 IP

789) Aaron Ashby MIL, LHP, 20.10 – Selected 125th overall in the 2018 draft, Ashby has an unhittable curveball that helped to put up a 156/43 K/BB in 74.2 IP in Junior College. His walk rate was better in his pro debut, with a 66/17 K/BB in 57.2 IP split between the Pioneer League and Full-A. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 10/3.89/1.34/165 in 155 IP

790) Jake Rogers DET, C, 24.0 – Plus defensive catcher with high flyball rates (50%) and high strikeout rates (27.5%). ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 54/20/62/.237/.328/.429/4

791) Garrett Stubbs HOU, C, 25.10 – Good contact rates (15.6%), walk rates (10.3%), flyball rates (46.1%), and speed (35 steals in 38 attempts in 304 minor league games). If he can gain strength in his late 20’s, Stubbs can be a very interesting all category contributor at the catcher position: ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 56/11/43/.268/.341/.398/8

792) Blaze Alexander ARI, 2B/SS, 19.10 – 11th round pick in 2018 but he signed for well above slot. Alexander made quick work of two levels of rookie ball, slashing .329/.417/.538 with 5 homers, 10 steals, and a 52/31 K/BB in 55 games. He is a plus athlete with room to grow into more power. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 78/18/77/.255/.337/.439/15

793) Jeremy Eierman OAK, SS, 22.7 – Selected 70th overall in the 2018 draft, Eierman has a plus power/speed combo (8 homers and 10 steals at short season A ball) but hit tool and plate approach are still raw (26.2% K% and 4.9 BB%). ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 52/16/56/.238/.296/.403/13

794) Kody Clemens DET, 2B, 22.11 – Selected 79th overall in the 2018 draft, Clemens broke out in his Junior year at Texas, hitting .351 with 24 homers. He then followed that up with a strong pro debut in full season ball. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 71/19/76/.250/.318/.432/5

795) Tristan Pompey MIA, OF, 22.0 – Selected 89th overall in the 2018 draft, Pompey is a plus athlete with plus raw power but has some swing and miss to his game, and has never put up big homerun or stolen base totals. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 78/16/71/.258/.336/.413/13

796) Josh Stowers, NYY, OF, 22.1 – Was a perfect 60 for 60 in stolen base attempts in college, and then went 20 for 24 in Short-A. Known for a plus hit tool in college, it is not a great sign his strikeout rate spiked to 23.4% in 244 PA in pro ball (and not even full season ball). ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 76/18/73/.263/.346/.431/16

797) Miguel Vargas LAD, 1B/3B, 19.5 – Signed out of Cuba, and after not playing competitive baseball for the last two years, Vargas absolutely destroyed rookie ball with an advanced approach and an advanced feel to hit. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 77/20/86/.275/.355/.468/8

798) Myles Straw HOU, OF, 24.5 – 70 for 79 in steal attempts in 131 games split between Double-A and Triple-A. Type of player who can rack up steals even coming off the bench. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 51/3/32/.263/.333/.351/23

799) Jose Garcia CIN, 2B/SS, 21.0 – Signed for $5 million out of Cuba, Garcia had a rough pro debut in Full-A, but some of those struggles could be attributed to rust. Commiserate with his signing bonus, he is a tooled up player with plus speed, but hit tool and power are still underdeveloped. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 72/15/65/.253/.317/.412/15

800) Jonathan Ornelas TEX, SS, 18.10 – Selected 91st overall in the 2018 draft, Ornelas has a funky swing with elite bat speed and average speed. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 79/20/81/.266/.343/.442/10

801) Osiris Johnson MIA, SS, 18.5 – 53rd overall pick of the 2018 draft, Johnson has an intriguing power/speed combo with an aggressive approach at the plate. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 72/23/79/.254/.320/.448/9

802) Joe Perez HOU, 3B, 19.8 – Selected 53rd overall in the 2017 draft, Perez required Tommy John surgery soon after being drafted. He was able to return for just 4 games in the GCL this season. He has plus power, and if you are going to blindly trust one team, it is the Astros. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 72/25/81/.250/.335/.470/3

803) Jameson Hannah OAK, OF, 21.7 – Selected 50th overall in the 2018 draft, Hannah has a prototypical leadoff hitter profile, demonstrating excellent K/BB ratios in college with plus speed. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 76/13/52/.270/.337/.406/19

804) Jose Devers MIA, SS, 19.4 – 13.5% K% at Full-A as an 18-year-old. Devers is a defense first player with good speed but no power as of yet. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 79/11/58/.279/.342/.401/18

805) Joe Gray MIL, OF, 19.0 – Selected 60th overall in the 2018 draft, Gray has plus power with above average speed but is a major hit tool risk. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 71/22/80/.246/.329/.448/11

806) Cole Ragans TEX, LHP, 21.4 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in March 2018. Selected 30th overall in the 2016 draft, Ragans is a big lefty who can rack up strikeouts, as evidenced by his 87 strikeouts in 57.1 IP at short season ball in 2017. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 11/3.92/1.32/175 in 165 IP

807) Sandy Gaston TB, RHP, 17.8 – Signed for $2.6 million in 2018, Gaston is a flamethrower, reportedly hitting 100 MPH on the radar gun. Control is non existent and secondaries flash average. ETA: 2025 Prime Projection: 9/3.98/1.35/145 in 130 IP

808) Diego Cartaya LAD, C, 17.7 – Signed for $2.5 million in 2018, the 6’2”, 199-pound Cartaya has an advanced feel for hitting and should grow into more power. ETA: 2025 Prime Projection: 61/18/67/.273/.345/.429/1

809) Jose De Leon TB, RHP, 26.8 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in March 2018, so he should be ready relatively early in the season. Former top prospect who is almost completely forgotten about, but you should at least keep an eye on him. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 7/4.15/1.32/108 in 110 IP

810) Osiel Rodriguez NYY, RHP, 17.4 – Signed for $600,000 in 2018, Rodriguez has prototypical starters size with a mid 90’s fastball and good feel for a curveball. ETA: 2025 Prime Projection: 10/4.00/1.30/150 in 150 IP

811) Dean Kremer BAL, RHP, 23.3 – Stuff isn’t electric but has a 4 pitch mix that was good enough to strikeout 178 batters in 131.1 IP split between Advanced-A and Double-A. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/3.91/1.29/163 in 170 IP

812) Lewis Thorpe MIN, LHP, 23.4 – Pounds the strikezone with a solid 4 pitch mix. Doesn’t have a high ceiling but is knocking on the door of the bigs. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 11/4.12/1.28/156 in 165 IP

813) Patrick Sandoval LAA, LHP, 22.5 – Back end starter stuff, but had a great season in 2018 with a pitching line of 2.06/0.96/145/29 in 122.1 IP split between 3 levels (Full-A through Double-A). He has a 4 pitch mix which he pounds the strikezone with. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/4.21/1.30/139 in 150 IP

814) Hector Neris PHI, Setup, 29.10 – Splitter is his money pitch to go along with a mid 90’s four seam fastball. 2019 Projection: 3/3/56/1.26/89 in 64 IP

815) Tyrone Taylor MIL, OF, 25.3 – Broke out in 2018 with a career high 49.6% FB% while maintaining his strong strikeout rate (15.4%). He has above average speed too. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 48/14/56/.258/.325/.442/9

816) Luis Toribio SF, 3B, 18.6 – Performed very well in the DSL, slashing .270/.423/.479 with 10 homers and a 62/51 K/BB in 64 games. Toribio has plus raw power with an advanced plate approach and good feel to hit. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 73/25/86/.267/.352/.481/2

817) Gabriel Rodriguez CLE, SS, 17.1 – Smooth swing with a good feel to hit and the chance to grow into plus power. ETA: 2025 Prime Projection: 82/18/76/.277/.359/.438/9

818) Alexander Vargas NYY, SS, 17.5 – Signed for $2.5 million in 2018, Vargas has plus speed and projects for plus hit. ETA: 2025 Prime Projection: 86/13/61/.276/.341/.403/25

819) Alvin Guzman ARI, OF, 17.6 – Signed for $1.85 million in 2018, Guzman has a plus power/speed combo and one of the more fantasy friendly skill sets in this year’s international class. ETA: 2025 Prime Projection: 82/18/76/.265/.332/.438/21

820) Tyler Ivey HOU, RHP, 22.11 – 4 pitch mix with all of them having the potential to be above average. Had an impressive full season debut with a pitching line of 2.97/1.03/135/29 in 112 IP split between Full-A and Advanced-A. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 10/4.11/1.29/152 in 165 IP

821) Cionel Perez HOU, LHP, 23.0 – Plus fastball and plus control/command but needs to improve secondaries. Major bullpen risk. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 6/3.71/1.23/121 in 108 IP

822) Anthony Kay NYM, LHP, 24.0 – 31st pick in the 2016 draft. Tommy John surgery delayed his pro debut by 2 years. High spin rate fastball and curveball with a plus changeup. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/4.09/1.31/152 in 168 IP

823) CC Sabathia NYY, SP, 38.9 – CC has announced that 2019 will be his final season. He has successfully transitioned himself from a flamethrowner to a crafty lefty the last 3 seasons, and I’m betting on there being enough in the tank for one last good year. 2019 Projection: 10/3.87/1.32/142 in 155 IP

824) Adbert Alzolay CHC, RHP, 24.1 – Strained lat in May ended Alzolay’s season. He has a mid 90’s fastball that he pairs with a power curveball, but if he can’t develop his changeup, there is a decent chance he ends up in the pen. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 7/3.96/1.31/86 in 101 IP

825) Ryan Helsley STL, SP, 24.9 – Mid 90’s fastball with a plus curve. Struggles with fastball command and was shut down with a shoulder injury in early June. Major bullpen risk. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 7/3.72/1.32/118 in 113 IP

826) Chris Rodriguez LAA, RHP, 20.8 – Stress reaction in Rodriguez’ back forced him to miss all of 2018. When healthy, he has a 4 pitch mix highlighted by a mid 90’s fastball and plus slider. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 9/3.85/1.26/148 in 150 IP

827) Taylor Hearn TEX, LHP, 24.7 – Flamethrowing lefty with an inconsistent slider and changeup. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 10/4.02/1.32/155 in 150 IP

828) Jonathan Hernandez TEX, RHP, 22.9 – Fastball sits in the mid 90’s with a slider that flashes plus and a changeup and curveball that have the potential to be average or better. Needs to improve control/command to remain a starter. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 10/4.08/1.33/157 in 163 IP

829) Cal Quantrill SD, RHP, 24.2 – Selected 8th overall in the 2016 draft coming off Tommy John surgery. Quantrill flashes plus stuff but can’t hold it from start to start. Mid-rotation upside but likely a back end guy. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 9/4.23/1.34/146 in 163 IP

830) Zac Lowther BAL, LHP, 22.11 – Dominated in his first full season of pro ball (2.18/0.98/151/35 in 123.2 IP spent mostly at Advanced-A) with a deceptive delivery, good command, and a plus fastball/changeup combo. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 11/4.12/1.28/156 in 167 IP

831) Zack Brown MIL, RHP, 24.3 – Broke out this year at Double-A with a pitching line of 2.40/1.06/119/37 in 127.2 IP. Throws a 4 pitch mix with a plus curveball as his best weapon. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 11/4.13/1.32/145 in 160 IP

832) Kevin Kramer PIT, 2B, 25.6 – Unlocked his offensive potential by successfully transitioning into a flyball hitter in 2017, but with only average raw power and speed, and a 24.1% K%, the upside seems to be lacking. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 53/13/47/.261/.320/.406/5

833) Carson Kelly ARI, C, 24.9 – Better on defense than offense. Should get a large share of at-bats this year, and will ultimately battle Varsho for Arizona’s long term catcher of the future job. 2019 Projection: 34/7/39/.238/.310/.351/0 Prime Projection: 46/12/54/.256/.338/.397/1

834) Anthony Swarzak SEA, Closer/Setup, 33.7 – With the Stickland signing, it is likely Swarzark opens the year in a setup role, although nothing is set in stone. 2019 Projection: 3/3.81/1.26/60/9 in 55 IP

835) Austin Barnes LAD, C, 29.3 – Barnes offense took a major step back last season with his K% jumping to 28.2%. With Russell Martin in the fold, and Smith and Ruiz not far behind, I don’t foresee Barnes getting full time at bats. 2019 Projection: 34/6/29/.244/.358/.379/4

836) Austin Hedges SD, C, 26.7 – Defense first catcher who strikes out a lot, doesn’t walk much, and might lose playing time to Francisco Mejia. 2019 Projection: 30/12/38/.238/.296/.417/2

837) Wade Miley HOU, LHP, 32.5 – Signed with Houston and will now turn into an ace. 2019 Projection: 7/4.34/1.39/101 in 130 IP

838) Ty France SD, 3B, 24.9 – Makes good contact and hits the ball in the air. Machado signing ends any chance of playing time out of the gate. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 58/14/66/.259/.313/.432/2

839) Taylor Ward LAA, 3B, 25.4 – Former 1st rd pick. Converted from a catcher to a third baseman in 2018, and had a breakout season at the plate, slashing .349/.446/.531 with 14 homers, 18 steals, and a 94/65 K/BB in 102 games split between Double-A and Triple-A. Might only be a bench bat, but there is some power, speed, and a good feel to hit. 2019 Projection: 28/6/29/.249/.328/.413/5 Prime Projection: 58/14/61/.267/.341/.438/9

840) Pavin Smith ARI, 1B, 23.2 – Elite strikeout rates make Smith a safe bet to reach the majors, but there might not be enough power to make a real fantasy impact. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 61/16/68/.273/.355/.415/2

841) Patrick Wisdom TEX, 3B, 27.7 – Broke out in the Cardinals system in 2017, and had an excellent MLB debut in 2018, slashing .260/.362/.520 with a 17 degree launch angle, 97.8 MPH FB/LD average exit velocity, and 32.8% K%. Cabrera signing takes away his best chance at full time at bats . 2019 Projection: 39/11/41/.237/.318/.425/3

842) Dustin Pedroia BOS, 2B, 35.8 – Knee injury kept Pedroia out for almost all of 2018, and is not a guarantee to be ready for the start of 2019. I wouldn’t count on much speed, but I will bet on his elite contact ability remaining intact. 2019 Projection: 59/9/50/.280/.341/.401/3

843) Bryan Reynolds PIT, OF, 24.2 – Average skills across the board. Upped his FB% 10% in 2018 to 42%. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 78/16/71/.271/.336/.420/7

844) Michael Hermosillo LAA, OF, 24.2 – Started lifting the ball more and had a power breakout, but his strikeout percentage took a hit too. Likely a 4th outfielder, but with plus speed and his newfound power, he has fantasy friendly skills if he gets in the lineup. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 52/13/43/.251/.318/.420/12

845) Pablo Reyes PIT, OF, 25.7 – Displayed a plus hit tool, plus avg exit velocity, and above average speed in impressive MLB debut. Not locked into playing time, but Reyes will chip in a little bit in every category if given at-bats. 2019 Projection: 34/7/28/.266/.320/.397/7 Prime Projection: 63/14/52/.278/.337/.410/14

846) David Bote CHC, 3B, 26.0 – Crushed the ball in his MLB debut with a 93.5 MPH average exit velocity and 96.6 MPH FB/LD avg, to go along with above average speed. Doesn’t have a clear path to playing time and 28.6% K% is high. 2019 Projection: 41/10/39/.235/.314/.420/4

847) Dominic Smith NYM, 1B, 23.10 – Peter Alonso has seemingly passed Smith for the Mets 1B of the future job, partly due to Alonso beasting in 2018, but also because Smith is regressing as he attempts to lift the ball more. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 72/20/81/.268/.331/.439/2

848) J.D. Davis NYM, 3B/OF, 25.11 – Plus raw power but more of a line drive hitter than flyball. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 45/15/58/.251/.329/.446/2

849) Kevin Maitan LAA, SS, 19.1 – Living more off the hype when he was 15-16 years old, Maitan hasn’t produced as expected, but he still has plus power and is only 19 years old. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 68/23/79/.243/.312/.436/1

850) Sam Hilliard COL, OF, 25.1 – Intriguing power/speed combo but advanced age and 31.2% K% at Double-A likely puts his future as a bench bat. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 66/18/69/.241/.318/.422/14

851) Carlos Hernandez KC, RHP, 22.1 – Mid 90’s fastball with a plus changeup and breaking ball that flashes plus. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/4.05/1.31/155 in 150 IP

852) Jorge Guzman MIA, RHP, 23.3 – Sits in the upper 90’s and regularly hits 100+, but that is all he has right now. Can easily end up in the pen. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 8/3.75/1.31/101 in 93 IP

853) Riley Pint COL, RHP, 21.5 – Selected 4th overall in the 2016 draft, Pint came into pro ball as a high upside project, and remains a high upside project. Multiple injuries limited him to only 8.1 IP last season, but the athleticism and mid 90’s heat are still there. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/4.02/1.35/178 in 173 IP

854) Edward Olivares SD, OF, 23.1 – Average to above average tools across the board. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 76/18/72/.262/.327/.418/16

855) Jacob Nix SD, RHP, 23.2 – Nix has a 93.6 MPH fastball with the potential for two above average secondaries in his curveball and changeup. Awful MLB debut (7.02 ERA and 1.54 WHIP) shows he is not quite ready yet. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 10/4.19/1.29/148 in 165 IP

856) Hunter Harvey BAL, RHP, 24.4 – Major injury concerns but is still young and should be ready to go by Spring Training. Plus fastball and curveball was the allure that made him a top prospect when healthy. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 8/4.20/1.35/123 in 127 IP

857) James Kaprielian OAK, RHP, 25.1 – Injuries have robbed Kaprielian of his last 3 seasons. When last healthy, he was a polished college pitcher whose stuff played up in pro ball, but due to the injuries, he is a complete mystery now. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 8/4.25/1.31/120 in 130 IP

858) Joe Palumbo TEX, LHP, 24.5 – Returned from Tommy John surgery in June 2018 and by the end of the season was back to his normal self. Palumbo has a plus curveball, 92-96 MPH fastball, and potential average changeup. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 10/4.14/1.31/143 in 155 IP

859) Drew Pomeranz SF, LHP, 30.4 – Imploded in 2018 with a 6.08 ERA and 1.77 WHIP. Signing with San Francisco was the best possible landing spot. 2019 Projection: 8/4.19/1.34/133 in 140 IP

860) Jerad Eickhoff PHI, RHP, 28.9 – Missed most of 2018 with shoulder issues. Back end starter profile with low 90’s heat and heavy use of his curveball. 2019 Projection: 5/4.35/1.36/71 in 80 IP

861) Enyel De Los Santos PHI, RHP, 23.3 – Mid 90’s fastball with a plus changeup that he throws 25.1% of the time. Will have to improve his breaking balls in order to miss more bats and stick in the rotation. 2019 Projection: 5/4.41/1.37/74 in 90 IP Prime Projection: 10/4.08/1.32/142 in 158 IP

862) Erick Fedde WASH, RHP, 26.1 – Likely back end starter or bullpen piece. Former 18th overall pick in the draft, so there might be some residual hype for him to have some trade value. 2019 Projection: 6/4.29/1.37/82 in 90 IP

863) Ryan Rolison COL, LHP, 21.9 – Selected 22nd overall in the 2018 draft, Rolison had mediocre college stats in 2018 with a pitching line of 3.70/1.37/120/45 in 97 IP in the SEC. Adding Coors into the equation, and I’m almost certainly staying away. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 11/4.23/1.36/165 in 173 IP

864) Marco Estrada OAK, RHP, 35.9 – Couldn’t have landed in a much better situation than Oakland considering Estrada’s extreme flyball tendencies. 2019 Projection: 9/4.31/1.30/125 in 150 IP

865) Jonathan Lucroy LAA, C, 32.10 – Nothing more than a light hitting catcher at this point. 2019 Projection: 44/7/50/.255/.316/.389/1

866) Chris Devenski HOU, Setup, 28.5 – Down year in 2018, and missed time with a hamstring injury, but stuff is still good so I would expect a bounceback. 2019 Projection: 4/3.49/1.14/76 in 65 IP

867) Jason Martin PIT, OF, 23.7 – Average skills across the board. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 67/15/61/.254/.317/.426/9

868) Tom Murphy COL, C, 28.0 – Power hitting catcher with a poor plate approach and high strikeout rate. Still in the mix to be a part of the Rockies future catcher plans. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 41/16/48/.231/.293/.439/1

869) Jarrod Dyson ARI, OF, 34.8 – Light hitting speedster. 2019 Projection: 49/4/28/.242/.315/.349/19

870) Randy Arozarena STL, OF, 24.1 – It’s going to be a struggle for Arozarena to get at-bats in St. Louis’ crowded outfield, but with a solid feel to hit, a little pop, and above average speed, he’s worth picking up if does make his way into the lineup. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 63/10/49/.262/.324/.398/14

871) Forrest Wall TOR, OF, 23.5 – Up and down minor league career. Plus speed with a good plate approach and enough pop for 10+ homers. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 61/11/52/.263/.325/.413/14

872) Tucupita Marcano SD, 2B, 19.7 – Plus hit and plus speed. 31/64 K/BB split between rookie ball and short-season-A ball. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 76/8/54/.279/.351/.391/20

873) Daniel Brito PHI, 2B, 21.2 – Raw, toolsy prospect with a good feel for contact. Skills haven’t materialized into production yet, but there is time. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 73/14/58/.273/..336/.405/14

874) Luis Santana HOU, 2B, 19.9 – Plus hit tool, putting up elite strikeout rates throughout his minor league career, but doesn’t have difference making power or speed. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 79/14/72/.278/.353/.409/8

875) Eddy Diaz COL, SS, 19.1 – Hasn’t played stateside ball yet, but has put up elite strikeout rates (7.6% K%) and stolen base totals (54 steals in 51 games) in the Domincan Summer League. He signed for $750,000 out of Cuba, so there is certainly some underlying skills here. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 79/9/56/.273/.345/.405/23

876) AJ Reed HOU, 1B, 25.11 – I think he can eventually carve out a strong side of a platoon 1B/DH role if he gets in the right situation. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 43/18/59/.240/.324/.455/0

877) Andy Young ARI, 2B, 24.11 – Old for level but cut his strikeout rate down to career best 16.8% at High-A (17.1% at Double-A), and didn’t sacrifice any power in the process (21 homers). ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 48/14/55/.252/.318/.423/2

878) Lane Thomas STL, OF, 23.8 – Stayed healthy and broke out in 2018, slashing .264/.333/.489 with 27 homers, 17 steals, and a 134/50 K/BB in in 132 games at Triple-A. Above average centerfield defense will get him in the lineup. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 53/14/49/.248/.315/.419/8

879) Mitchell White LAD, RHP, 24.3 – Great stuff at his best but inconsistent and has had injury issues. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 9/3.90/1.29/116 in 130 IP

880) Greyson Jenista ATL, OF, 22.4 – Selected 49th overall in the 2018 draft, Jenista posted high groundball rates in his pro debut, which is not a great sign for a college hitter whose main calling card is power. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 54/16/57/.251/.332/.448/5

881) Steele Walker CHW, OF, 22.8 – Selected 46th overall in the 2018 draft, Walker has a well rounded skillset with a high motor, but no standout fantasy skills. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 78/18/73/.261/.327/.417/14

882) Anthony Seigler NYY, C, 19.10 – Selected 23rd overall in the 2018 draft, Seigler is a plus defensive catcher with a good feel to hit and doubles power. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 63/14/69/.263/.335/.410/1

883) Cal Raleigh SEA, C, 22.4 – Selected 90th overall in the 2018 draft, Raleigh is a switch hitting catcher with above average raw power from both sides of the plate. 50.4% FB% and 17.4% K% in his short season pro debut. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 50/20/65/.247/.326/.427/1

884) Braden Bishop SEA, OF, 25.8 – Plus centerfield defense and plus speed could keep him in the lineup where he is likely to chip in steals and not much else. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 72/9/51/.253/.327/.388/14

885) Richie Martin BAL, SS, 24.3 – Former 20th overall pick in the 2015 draft, Martin has maintained his plus athleticism while putting together his best offensive season in 2018, slashing .300/.368/.439 with 6 homers, 25 steals and a 86/44 K/BB in 118 games at Double-A. With a 22.9% FB%, he is going to have to lift the ball more to tap into his full potential. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 65/9/52/.259/.323/.389/14

886) Esteban Quiroz SD, 2B, 27.1 – Signed out of the Mexican League by Boston in 2016, Quiroz makes good contact, has a plus plate approach, and hits the ball in the air 44.1% of the time. He’s only 5’7”, 175 pounds, and is old for a prospect, but the underlying skills are very good. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 51/13/58/.258/.335/.421/5

887) Raynel Delgado CLE, 2B/SS, 19.0 – Selected 193rd overall in the 2018 draft, Delgado is a switch hitter with potential for plus hit and plus power. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 76/23/83/.274/.350/.476/5

888) Misael Urbina MIN, OF, 16.11 – Signed for $2.75 million in July 2018. Urbina has a plus hit, plus speed profile. ETA: 2026 Prime Projection: 85/11/62/.276/.342/.408/23

889) Brett Anderson OAK, LHP, 31.2 – I remember when he was one the brightest young starters in the game, but now he is just an oft-injured, soft tossing back end starter. 2019 Projection: 5/4.36/1.38/71 in 100 IP

890) Logan Webb SF, RHP, 22.5 – Fully recovered from 2016 Tommy John surgery, Webb showed a mid 90’s fastball with a curveball that flashed above average and a developing slider and changeup. He has mid rotation upside. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 10/4.25/1.32/139 in 150 IP

891) Mike King NYY, RHP, 23.10 – Likely a back end starter but stats are too good to ignore with a pitching line of 1.70/0.91/152/29 in 161 IP. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 7/3.98/1.34/108 in 130 IP

892) Chris Stratton SF, RHP, 28.8 – Pomeranz signing likely bumps him from the rotation to start the season, but he should still see plenty of innings in a variety of roles. 2019 Projection: 6/4.28/1.34/95 in 110 IP

893) Nick Markakis ATL, OF, 35.4 – Re-signing with Atlanta is a best case scenario for Markakis. He will still have to compete with Adam Duvall for playing time. 2019 Projection: 68/12/77/.276/.352/.409/1

894) Mark Reynolds COL, 1B, 35.8 – Short side of a platoon power bat. 2019 Projection: 32/12/41/.242/.318/.455/1

895) Gerardo Parra SF, OF, 31.11 – Makes good contact but doesn’t have much power and leaving Coors. 2019 Projection: 41/6/43/.271/.314/.389/5

896) Zack Short CHC, SS, 23.10 – Worth mentioning for his unique profile alone, Short posted a 15.6% walk rate and 54.9% flyball rate at Double-A. He doesn’t have enough raw power to fully take advantage of it, but he is worth having on your radar. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 52/13/47/.242/.341/.389/9

897) Max Schrock STL, 2B, 24.6 – 7.9% K% in Triple-A makes him a sure major leaguer, and he raised his FB% to 38.1%, but if he doesn’t start making harder contact he is destined to be a utility guy. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 62/7/46/.278/.326/.381/9

898) Blake Swihart BOS, C/OF, 27.0 – Rumors Boston looks at Swihart as trade bait, which would only help his fantasy value. He’s a light hitting catcher with average speed. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 48/9/43/.249/.308/.388/6

899) Jayson Schroeder HOU, RHP, 19.5 – Selected 66th overall in the 2018 draft, Schroeder is a plus athlete with a low 90’s fastball and the potential for two plus secondaries in his curveball and slider. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 11/3.82/1.28/161 in 165 IP

900) Jean Carmona BAL, SS, 19.5 – Hasn’t dominated numbers wise, but Carmona has plus bat speed with high offensive upside. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 78/20/79/.268/.333/.439/10

901) Gabriel Arias SD, SS, 19.1 – Plus defensive shortstop but offense is still very raw. 29.6% K% and 6 homers in 124 games at Full-A. Still very young, and the raw ingredients are there for potentially above average hit and power. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 71/20/77/.268/.331/.438/4

902) Edward Cabrera MIA, RHP, 21.0 – 6’4”, 170 pounds with an athletic delivery and electric stuff but still very raw. Major pen risk. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 10/4.22/1.35/146 in 153 IP

903) Sam Carlson SEA, RHP, 20.4 – Selected 55th overall in the 2017 draft, Carlson was shut down soon after his pro debut, and eventually required Tommy John surgery in July 2018. When healthy, Carlson has a potential 3 pitch mix (fastball, slider, changeup) and the ability to pound the strikezone. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 11/3.80/1.26/161 in 171 IP

904) Yangervis Solarte SF, 3B/2B, 31.9 – Utility infielder with a good feel to hit and some pop. 2019 Projection: 42/12/46/.255/.313/.414/1

905) Mark Canha OAK, OF, 30.1 – Hits the ball in the air with about league average exit velocities. Projected to be in the short side of a platoon. 2019 Projection: 48/12/46/.243/.316/.429/2

906) Kevin Cron ARI, 1B, 26.1 – Hit dingers at every minor league stop since being drafted in the 14th round in 2014. With a 47.3% FB%, there is no question his power will play, but the competition is tough to land full time jobs for 1B only types. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 46/15/57/.245/.318/.442/1

907) Magneuris Sierra MIA, OF, 23.0 – 3rd fastest spring speed in the majors but has no power, a poor plate approach, and a high strikeout rate. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 58/6/33/.248/.291/.357/14

908) Seth Lugo NYM, Setup, 29.5 – Will remain in the bullpen with the Mets, but there are rumors the Astros are interested, and they may move him back into the rotation. 2019 Projection: 6/3.51/1.20/81 in 83 IP

909) DJ Peters LAD, OF, 23.4 – Plus athlete with extreme power (29 homers in 132 games at Double-A) and extreme strikeouts (34.3%). ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 59/18/57/.221/.302/.449/3

910) Dylan Cozens PHI, OF, 24.10 – Elite power, but 35.6% K% at Triple-A (54.5% in 44 MLB at-bats) is likely to prevent him from locking down a full time job. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 41/18/52/.221/.303/.424/6

911) Roberto Ramos COL, 1B, 24.3 – Double plus power (32 homers split between High-A and Double-A) with double plus strikeouts (32.9% K% at Double-A) and zero defensive value. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 44/18/56/.237/.316/.430/2

912) Jose Soriano LAA, RHP, 20.5 – Checks all the boxes for a young, projectable pitching prospect. Mid 90’s heat with a curveball that flashes plus, but is still a project. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/3.92/1.33/147 in 155 IP

913) Roansy Contreras NYY, RHP, 19.5 – Upper 90’s fastball with the potential for two plus secondaries (curveball/changeup). ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 11/4.13/1.31/158 in 167 IP

914) Shaun Anderson SF, RHP, 24.5 – Likely back end starter without any standout pitches, but a back end starter in San Francisco has mid rotation upside in fantasy. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 10/4.01/1.31/149 in 175 IP

915) Mike Shawaryn BOS, RHP, 24.7 – Uses a heavy sinking fastball to induce groundballs, to go along with a plus slider and average changeup. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 10/4.27/1.34/149 in 165 IP

916) Keegan Akin BAL, LHP, 24.0 – 54th overall pick in 2016. Deceptive fastball with a potential average to above average slider and changeup. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 10/4.26/1.34/150 in 160 IP

917) Sam Hjelle SF, RHP, 21.11 – Selected 45th overall in the 2018 draft, Hjelle is 6’11”, 225 pounds but doesn’t have overpowering stuff. Profiles as a back end stater. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/4.14/1.30/145 in 160 IP

918) Zach Britton NYY, Setup, 31.3 – Should be a good source of holds, but isn’t going to make a big impact on your ratios or strikeouts. 2019 Projection: 4/3.24/1.27/60 in 60 IP

919) Yoshihisa Hirano ARI, Setup, 35.1 – With the Holland signing, Hirano moves further away from saves, but it still isn’t inconceivable he finds himself in that role at some point this season. 2019 Projection: 4/3.45/1.19/61/5 in 65 IP

920) Jean Carlos Encarnacion BAL, 3B, 21.2 – 134/16 K/BB in 123 at-bats in Full-A shows he is still very raw, but Encarnacion has plus athleticism and plus power. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 73/21/77/.247/.303/412/8

921) Rylan Bannon BAL, 2B/3B, 23.0 – Demolished High-A, slashing .296/.402/.559 with 20 homers and a 103/59 K/BB in 89 games, but struggled in 98 Double-A at-bats. Selected in the 8th round in 2017, Bannon is a production over scouting prospect. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 63/16/56/.253/.337/.420/5

922) Luis Ortiz BAL, RHP, 23.7 – Plus fastball/slider combo but profiles more as a back end fantasy starter, especially in Baltimore and the AL East. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 9/4.33/1.36/138 in 152 IP

923) Dillon Tate BAL, RHP, 24.11 – 4th overall pick of the 2015 draft. Tate’s stuff has taken a step back in pro ball, but the plus athleticism is still there. Ceiling looks more like a mid rotation guy now. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 9/4.21/1.33/132 in 145 IP

924) Dennis Santana LAD, RHP, 23.0 – Shut down for the season in June with a strained rotator cuff. Throws a mid 90’s fastball with tons of movement, which he pairs with an above average slider and developing changeup. Ultimately may wind up in the pen. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 7/4.08/1.33/127 in 119 IP

925) Tim Cate WASH, LHP, 21.6 – Selected 65th overall in the 2018 draft, Cate has one of the best curveballs in the draft class. His fastball sits in the low 90’s and he doesn’t have much of a changeup. He was also shut down in the middle of his junior year with an elbow injury. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 7/3.91/1.32/136 in 133 IP

926) Luis Campusano SD, C, 20.6 – Displayed a good feel to hit in his full season debut with a 15.1% K%, and while he only hit 3 homers in 70 games, he shows plus power in batting practice. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 55/18/59/.258/.322/.419/1

927) Anthony Banda TB, LHP, 25.8 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2018. When healthy, he throws a mid 90’s fastball with multiple secondaries. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection:6/4.16/1.34/101 in 110 IP

928) Buddy Reed SD, OF, 23.11 – Plus defense and double plus speed could get him in the lineup, but limited power and poor K/BB numbers will make him an offensive liability. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 63/7/47/.233/.291/.388/23

929) Jared Oliva PIT, OF, 23.4 – Projectable 6’3”, 185 pounds, Oliva had a strong full season debut at High-A, slashing .275/.354/.424 with 9 homers, 33 steals, and a 91/40 K/BB in 108 games. He fell off in the 2nd half and is still a bit of a project. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 53/10/47/.249/.318/.407/13

930) Miguel Hiraldo TOR, SS, 18.7 – Signed for $750,000 in 2017, Hiraldo had a strong pro debut is the DSL, with a .313 BA, 12.6% K%, and 15 steals in 54 games. He has plus bat speed and projects for plus hit. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 82/18/72/.278/.356/.441/8

931) Ronny Brito TOR, SS, 20.0 – Signed for $2 million in 2015, Brito is known more for his plus SS defense than his bat. Hit 11 homers and stuck out 30.3% of the time in 53 games as a 19-year-old in rookie ball in 2018, so the power is developing. ETA: 203 Prime Projection: 77/17/72/.244/.303/.409/12

932) Edwin Rios LAD, 1B, 24.11 – Strikeout rate jumped over 10% to 32.3% and ISO dropped to a career low .178. Most likely outcome is a bench power bat. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 41/15/56/.242/.299/.428/1

933) Josh Ockimey BOS, LHP, 23.6 – Extreme strikeout and walk rates with plus power. Strong side of a platoon is his most likely outcome. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 48/17/65/.241/.328/.447/1

934) Luken Baker STL, 1B, 22.1 – Selected 75th overall in the 2018 draft, Baker crushed 3 years of college ball in the Big 12 and then had a solid pro debut. On the downside, right handed power hitting 1B have a hard time getting prospect hype, and also have a hard time breaking into a major league lineup. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 46/15/52/.254/.331/.457/1

935) Nathan Eaton KC, 2B/3B/OF, 22.4 – Dominated in pro debut at rookie ball, slashing .354/.427/.581 with 5 homers, 19 steals, and a 60/33 K/BB in 66 games. He’s got average to above average skills across the board and can play all over the diamond. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 77/14/71/.257/.326/.412/15

936) Taylor Walls TB, SS, 22.9 – Selected 79th overall in the 2017 draft, Walls had a strong full season debut, slashing .304/.393/.428 with 6 homers, 31 steals, and a 80/66 K/BB in 120 games at Full-A. Utility infielder floor with a chance to be a 2nd division regular. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 72/12/58/.262/.345/.408/14

937) Abraham Toro HOU, 3B, 22.4 – Average tools across the board. Performed well at High-A (.834 OPS) before struggling at Double-A (.688 OPS). ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 63/18/67/.262/.338/.445/8

938) Richie Palacios CLE, 2B, 21.11 – Selected 103rd overall in the 2018 draft, Palacios has plus hit and plus speed. He had a 16/52 K/BB and was 25 for 26 on the base paths in 55 games for Towson. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 72/10/58/.275/.332/.403/24

939) Griffin Conine TOR, OF, 21.9 – Selected 52nd overall in the 2018 draft, Griffin has plus power with major strikeout issues. He is the son of former big leaguer, Jeff Conine. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 56/15/64/.237/.318/.435/3

940) Nicky Delmonico CHW, OF, 26.9 – Likely keeping the seat warm for Eloy. 86.8 MPH avg exit velocity and 90 MPH on FB/LD is not a good sign for someone who needs to hit for power to stay in the lineup. 2019 Projection: 38/9/34/.233/.312/.400/2

941) Eric Skoglund KC, LHP, 26.6 – Suspended for 80 games in 2018. Batters hit Skoglund hard last season, with a 90.7 avg exit velocity against and 94.1 MPH on FB/LD. 2019 Projection: 6/4.62/1.38/101 in 130 IP

942) Socrates Brito ARI, OF, 26.7 – 10th fastest sprint speed in the majors, but doesn’t do enough damage with the bat to capitalize on it. 2019 Projection: 36/7/33/.237/.285/.395/6

943) Christian Walker ARI, 1B/OF, 28.0 – Quad-A type player but power is legit. 2019 Projection: 31/10/38/.231/.291/.438/1

944) Brewer Hicklen KC, OF, 23.2 – Plus athlete with a plus power/speed combo but hit tool is still very raw. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 51/12/49/.237/.304/.401/14

945) Jordy Mercer DET, SS, 32.8 – Strikeout rate spiked to 20% in 2018. Mercer has a little pop and that is just about it. 2019 Projection: 49/10/46/.250/.316/.386/1

946) Tyler Naquin CLE, OF, 27.11 – Down year in 2018 and is going to have to compete with a lot of good young talent for playing time in 2019. 2019 Projection: 43/9/45/.261/.317/.408/3

947) Sheldon Neuse OAK, 3B, 24.5 – Disastrous season in the PCL with a .661 OPS, 5 homers, and a 172/32 K/BB in 135 games. Hit the ball on the ground a career low 38.2% of the time, so this might just be growing pains, or it might mean he should go back to his original approach. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 42/12/49/.246/.312/.414/2

948) Yadier Alvarez LAD, RHP, 23.1 – Followed up his poor 2017 with an even worse 2018, walking 44 batters in 55.1 IP. Plus stuff is still there, but all indications point to him ending up in the bullpen. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 4/3.31/1.24/76 in 63 IP

949) Franklyn Kilome NYM, RHP, 23.9 – Will miss all of 2019 after undergoing Tommy John surgery in October. When healthy, he has a mid 90’s fastball with a potential plus curve, but lacks command and a third pitch. ETA: Late 2020 Prime Projection: 9/4.11/1.34/96 in 110 IP

950) Tanner Houck BOS, RHP, 22.9 – Selected 24th overall in the 2017 draft, Houck throws a mid 90’s 4 seamer and sinker, to go along with a swing and miss slider. May ultimately wind up in the pen. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 9/4.02/1.33/121 in 130 IP

951) Luis Medina NYY, RHP, 19.11 – Fastball that can hit the upper 90’s with a potential plus curveball and plus changeup. Stats have been awful the last two seasons in rookie ball with a pitching line of 6.25/2.1747/46 in 36 IP. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 10/4.23/1.35/163 in 158 IP

952) Gregory Santos SF, RHP, 19.8 – Nasty 3 pitch mix but still very raw. Santos has obvious major league stuff but may wind up in the pen. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 6/3.88/1.31/108 in 111 IP

953) Victor Mesa Jr. MIA, OF, 18.0 – Skills are similar to his older brother but is mostly a mystery due to his lack of exposure. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 72/11/56/.268/.332/.393/15

954) Rogelio Armenteros HOU, RHP, 24.9 – Average stuff plays up because of a deceptive fastball-changeup combo and 5 pitch mix. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 8/4.18/1.33/101 in 110 IP

955) Yohander Mendez TEX, LHP, 24.2 – Fastball/changeup pitcher. Likely a back end starter unless his fastball ticks up and/or his slider improves. 2019 Projection: 3/4.76/1.45/61 in 70 IP Prime Projection: 10/4.38/1.35/140 in 155 IP

956) Abiatal Avelino SF, 2B/SS, 24.1 – Good athlete with an aggressive plate approach. Had a power breakout in 2018, hitting 15 homers in 126 games to go along with 27 steals. Most likely a bench player, but is knocking on the door of the bigs and is worth having on your radar. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 62/6/41/.251/.298/.391/9

957) Brett Cumberland BAL, C, 23.9 – Power, patience, and strikeout catcher. If Sisco can’t get his act together, Cumberland will overtake him as the catcher of the future. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 44/14/51/.248/.327/.413/0

958) Corey Spangenberg MIL, 3B/2B, 28.0 – Moustakas signing limits how much playing time Spagenberg will get. Moderate power/speed combo with a 32.8% K% in 2018. 2019 Projection: 42/8/34/.248/.310/.398/6

959) Logan Morrison FA, 1B, 31.7 – Hip surgery ended his season in August. Best case scenario is a strong side of a platoon bat. 2019 Projection: 36/14/41/.228/.316/.430/1

960) Daniel Poncedeleon STL, RHP, 27.2 – Strong MLB debut with a pitching line of 2.73/1.12/31/13 in 33 IP. Throws 4 average pitches. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 7/4.22/1.33/81 in 94 IP

961) Wil Crowe WASH, RHP, 24.7 – Selected 65th overall in the 2017 draft, Crowe has a solid 4-pitch mix with no standout pitches. He has good control/command and will throw any of his pitches in any count. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 10/4.21/1.31/151 in 169 IP

962) Erik Swanson SEA, RHP, 25.7 – Predominantly a fastball/slider pitcher, but neither pitch is dominant. Likely a back of the rotation starter. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 9/4.21/1.34/105 in 120 IP

963) Brandon Wagner NYY, 1B, 23.7 – Patient hitter with an advanced approach. Wagner had a power breakout in 2018, hitting 21 homers in 124 games split between High-A and Double-A. He has some defensive versatility, and could see at-bats all over the field. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 53/14/55/.251/.346/.439/1

964) Frank Schwindel KC, 1B, 26.9 – Poor plate approach, but he makes good contact and has good power. Probably a Quad-A player, but with the Royals rebuilding, he could get his shot. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 38/11/46/.252/.291/.416/1

965) Adam Kloffenstein TOR, RHP, 18.8 – Selected 88th overall in the 2018 draft, Kloffenstein is 6’5”, 243 pounds with a low 90’s fastball, inconsistent slider, and developing changeup. He’s raw, but the ingredients are there to develop into a mid rotation starter. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 9/4.18/1.32/158 in 165 IP

966) Kyle Cody TEX, RHP, 24.8 – Underwent Tommy John surgery in July 2018. When healthy, the 6′,7”, 245-pound Cody has a mid 90’s fastball and plus slider. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 8/3.94/1.32/135 in 130 IP

967) Lonnie Chisenhall PIT, OF, 30.6 – Strong side of a platoon bat until Polanco is healthy. Capable of power outbreaks with a high flyball rate, but he doesn’t hit the ball hard enough to consistently capitalize on it. 2019 Projection: 32/9/43/.268/.326/.439/2

968) Robbie Erlin SD, LHP, 28.6 – Back end starter or multi inning reliever. 2019 Projection: 7/4.22/1.28/104 in 130 IP

969) Ranger Suarez PHI, LHP, 23.7 – Deceptive delivery with a low 90’s fastball, average changeup, and a slider that flashes average. Doesn’t have a put away pitch but knows how to pitch. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 9/4.12/1.33/149 in 166 IP

970) Jayce Easley TEX, 2B, 19.8 – Selected 149th overall in the 2018 draft, Easley projects as a top of the order hitter with plus speed. Cracks the list because of the bloodlines (Damion Easley). ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 77/10/52/.265/.336/.402/20

971) Ryan Jeffers MIN, C, 21.10 – Selected 59th overall in the 2018 draft, Jeffers had a strong pro debut, slashing .288/.361/.446 with 4 homers and a 30/14 K/BB in 36 games at Full-A. Above average power, but no guarantee he sticks behind the plate. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 46/14/53/.245/.311/.407/0

972) Joe McCarthy TB, OF/1B, 25.1 – Solid underlying stats at Triple-A with a 47% FB%, 22.5% K%, and 13.1 BB%. Might end up as a bench bat because it is crowded in Tampa, but McCarthy has legitimate offensive potential and can play a few positions. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 48/14/52/.251/.338/.435/6

973) Nick Decker BOS, OF, 19.6 – Selected 64th overall in the 2018 draft, Decker has an advanced approach at the plate with average power and speed. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 76/16/71/.272/.348/.427/10

974) Terrin Vavra COL, SS/2B, 21.11 – Selected 96th overall in the 2018 draft, Vavra has a good feel to hit and an average at best power/speed combo. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 73/14/61/.276/.330/.418/9

975) Will Benson CLE, OF, 20.10 – Double plus power, but with major hit tool risk. Slashed .180/.324/.370 with 22 homers (52.3% FB%), 12 steals and a 152/82 K/BB in 123 games at Full-A. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 53/18/58/.221/.328/.456/6

976) Will Craig PIT, 1B, 24.5 – Completely flipped his batted ball distribution with a 53.7% FB% in Double-A, resulting in 20 homers in 132 games. He took steps back in K% and BB%, but Craig is a hitter I liked out of the draft, and is worth keeping an eye on to see if he can further develop with this new approach. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 43/14/51/.258/.327/.442/2

977) Jamie Westbrook ARI, 2B, 23.10 – Aggressive approach with a good feel to hit and some power. Had his best season since 2015, but it was his third time repeating Double-A. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 52/12/57/.268/.310/.431/3

978) Heath Quinn SF, OF, 23.10 – A favorite of mine in the 2016 draft, Quinn has not lived up to my expectations. He had a strong year at High-A in 2018, but he was repeating the level and was a bit old for it. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 42/13/49/.238/.306/.419/3

979) Dom Thompson-Williams SEA, OF, 24.0 – Good athlete with plus raw power and average speed. Had an excellent statistical year at High-A, but is too old for the level to be impressed by it. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 52/14/53/.238/.291/.421/9

980) Brock Deatherage DET, OF, 23.7 – Selected 285th overall in the 2018 draft, but he didn’t fall that far for a lack of tools. Deatherage is an elite athlete with a plus power-speed combo. Hit tool is raw, and he was a senior coming into the draft, but pro debut was very promising, slashing .326/.385/.504 with 7 homers, 19 steals, and a 64/21 K/BB in 60 games spent mostly at Full-A. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 62/13/54/.244/.318/.414/16

981) Osleivis Basabe TEX, SS, 18.7 – Known for his defense and speed when he signed in 2017, but hit tool was much better than expected in DSL debut, where he hit .344 with an 11.3% K%. ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 78/13/53/.268/.331/.409/18

982) Larry Ernesto MIL, OF, 18.7 – Signed for $1.8 million in 2017, Ernesto displayed his power/speed combo in his DSL debut, hitting 5 homers and stealing 9 bases, but hit tool is still very raw (68/14 K/BB in 53 games). ETA: 2024 Prime Projection: 74/20/78/.243/.311/.441/12

983) Owen White TEX, RHP, 19.7 – Selected 55th overall in the 2018 draft, White is a projectable 6’3”, 170 pounds with a low 90’s fastball and developing secondaries. Multi sport athlete in high school. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 9/4.17/1.31/150 in 160 IP

984) Jake Wong SF, RHP, 22.8 – Selected 80th overall in the 2018 draft, Wong throws a heavy 92-96 MPH fastball, an above average curve and developing changeup. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/4.15/1.33/153 in 170 IP

985) Mario Feliciano MIL, C, 20.4 – Career minor league numbers are bad, but he has been pushed aggressively and dealt with injuries in 2018. If it all comes together, he will be one of those catchers that hits for power without tanking your average. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 61/18/69/.265/.333/.428/1

986) Will Banfield MIA, C, 19.5 – Selected 69th overall in the 2018 draft, Banfield is a plus defensive catcher with plus raw power. ETA: 2023 Prime Projection: 55/18/68/.249/.326/.403/0

987) Francisco Morales PHI, RHP, 19.5 – Prototypical starters build. 92-96 MPH fastball that has the potential to tick up as he gets stronger, to go along with a plus slider. Delivery and control/command need work. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 10/4.08/1.32/167 in 165 IP

988) Bryan Mata BOS, RHP, 19.11 – Prototypical starters build with MLB stuff, but put up a 17.7% BB% at High-A. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 10/4.02/1.34/154 in 163 IP

989) Pedro Avila SD, RHP, 22.3 – Low 90’s fastball with two advanced secondary pitches in his curveball and changeup. He’s struck out 496 batters in 416.1 IP throughout his minor league career. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 11/4.01/1.33/152 in 160 IP

990) Blaine Knight BAL, RHP, 22.9 – Selected 87th overall in the 2018 draft, Knight throws in the low 90’s with an elite spin rate slider and curveball. He is a skinny 6’3”, 165 pounds, so there is potential for him to add more velocity as he gains strength. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/4.17/1.32/152 in 165 IP

991) Tony Watson SF, Setup, 33.10 – Bounced back in 2018 after his changeup returned to being a plus pitch. 2019 Projection: 4/3.38/1.18/65 in 65 IP

992) Taylor Rogers MIN, Setup, 28.4 – Being a lefty, it might be hard for Rogers to be a candidate for saves, but he broke out in 2018 with a plus sinker-curveball combo, to go along with an above average slider he reintroduced into his pitch repertoire. 2019 Projection: 4/3.38/1.19/69/3 in 65 IP

993) Lou Trivino OAK, Setup, 27.6 – Fell apart in the 2nd half, but overall season numbers were strong with a pitching line of 2.92/1.14/82/31 in 74 IP. 2019 Projection: 5/3.51/1.23/72 in 68 IP

994) Cristian Javier HOU, RHP, 22.0 – High spin rate fastball with the potential for two above average breaking balls. 146/50 K/BB in 110 IP split between Full-A and Advanced-A. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 6/3.91/1.32/111 in 105 IP

995) Travis Jankowski SD, OF, 27.10 – It’s going to be tough to get playing time in San Diego’s crowded OF, but he can still provide steals in a bench role. 2019 Projection: 35/2/12/.250/.325/.329/15

996) Wade LeBlanc SEA, LHP, 34.8 – Had the best year of his career in 2018 with a pitching line 3.72/1.18/130/40 in 162 IP. The upside is low, but he has the potential to be serviceable in deeper leagues. 2019 Projection: 8/4.29/1.30/118 in 150 IP

997) Jason Vargas NYM, LHP, 36.2 – Classic back end starter. Only valuable in leagues where accumulating innings has value. 2019 Projection: 8/4.34/1.34/108 in 130 IP

998) Ian Kennedy KC, RHP, 34.9 – More likely to provide negative value than positive. 2019 Projection: 8/4.48/1.33/123 in 140 IP

999) Jordan Zimmerman DET, RHP, 32.10 – Velocity has continued to decline to a career low 91.7 MPH, although he did have his best K/9 (7.61) since 2014. 2019 Projection: 8/4.55/1.35/115 in 150 IP

1000) Jeremy Hellickson WASH, RHP, 32.0 – Back end starter. 2019 Projection: 6/4.41/1.32/70 in 100 IP

1001) Edinson Volquez TEX, RHP, 35.9 – Missed all of 2018 recovering from Tommy John surgery, but is expected to be ready to go in 2019. Back end starter without much upside. 2019 Projection: 7/4.52/1.46/108 in 130 IP

1002) Martin Prado MIA, 3B, 35.5 – Has been awful the last two seasons, but $15 million contract might keep him in the lineup. At best, he will provide a solid average and nothing else. 2019 Projection: 54/9/52/.259/.312/.370/2

1003) Yonathan Daza COL, OF, 25.1 – Plus defensive outfielder with a good feel to hit and plus speed. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 59/6/42/.278/.325/.391/12

1004) Steve Pearce BOS, 1B/OF, 36.0 – Short side of a platoon power bat. 2019 Projection: 37/12/41/.261/.338/.462/1

1005) Denard Span FA, OF, 35.1 – Likely a 4th outfielder at this point in his career as his days of being a viable starting centerfielder are over. 2019 Projection: 46/8/41/.261/.332/.408/8

1006) Daniel Descalso CHC, 3B/2B/OF, 32.6 – The last thing fantasy players needed was for Joe Maddon to have another gritty vet to use to block the kids. But here we are. Descalso cut his GB% to a career low 30.1% in 2018, so his mini power breakout was for real. 2019 Projection: 33/10/33/.234/.338/.420/2

1007) Carlos Gomez FA, OF, 33.4 – Still has some power and speed but in a clear decline. Prime Projection: 38/9/36/.233/.309/.386/7

1008) Austin Allen SD, C/1B, 25.2 – Not likely to stick at catcher, but Allen has plus raw power and a good feel to hit. Would have more value on an AL team. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 47/16/56/.252/.320/.441/0

1009) Felix Pena LAA, RHP, 29.1 – Sinker/slider pitcher who will mix in a changeup. Likely a back end starter, but he had success last season in the majors with a 4.18 ERA and 1.24 WHIP in 92.2 IP. 2019 Projection: 5/4.31/1.35/93 in 100 IP

1010) Starling Heredia LAD, OF, 20.8 – Plus power and average speed but hit tool is very raw. Slashed .192/.260/.332 with 7 homers, 4 steals, and a 92/20 K/BB in 61 games at Full-A. ETA: 2022 Prime Projection: 54/17/58/.238/.316/.442/7

1011) JJ Matijevic HOU, OF, 23.5 – Bat first prospect who showed well in his first full season of pro ball, slashing .277/.350/.538 with 22 homers, 13 steals, and a 113/44 K/BB in 101 games spent mostly at High-A. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 53/13/56/.241/.318/.435/7

1012) Juan Guerrero COL, SS, 17.7 – Signed for $600,000 in July 2018. Plus bat speed with a good feel to hit and projectable frame. ETA: 2025 Prime Projection: 73/22/81/.273/.341/.468/8

1013) Tyler Phillips TEX, RHP, 21.5 – Stats over scouting prospect. Put up a pitching line of 2.64/1.02/127/16 in 133 IP spent almost entirely at Full-A. Low 90’s fastball with a plus changeup and average curve. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 10/4.07/1.32/153 in 169 IP

1014) Griffin Roberts STL, RHP, 22.10 – Selected 43rd overall in the 2018 draft, Roberts sits in the low 90’s with a plus slider. He was a reliever until his junior season in college. ETA: 2021 Prime Projection: 5/3.71/1.28/84 in 77 IP

1015) Daulton Jefferies OAK, RHP, 23.8 – Tommy John surgery knocked out his 2017 and 2018 seasons. When healthy, he has three potential above average pitches in his fastball, curveball, and chaneup. ETA: 2020 Prime Projection: 8/4.09/1.26/128 in 140 IP

1016) Chris Bassitt OAK, RHP, 30.1 – Likely the next man up in Oakland’s patchwork rotation. Back end starter. Oakland badly needs rotation help. 2019 Projection: 5/4.41/1.36/73 in 90 IP

1017) Richard Rodriguez PIT, Setup, 29.1 – 14% swinging strike rate in 2018. Doesn’t have overpowering stuff, but is excellent at locating his fastball. 2019 Projection: 4/3.51/1.21/65 in 60 IP

1018) Derek Dietrich CIN, 1B/OF, 29.9 – 15.6 degree launch angle but doesn’t hit it all that hard (90.8 MPH FB/LD avg. exit velo) and has a poor plate approach. 2019 Projection: 38/7/31/.257/.330/.420/1

1019) Lucas Duda MIN, 1B, 33.2 – Strong side of a platoon power bat with the ability to kill your batting average. 2019 Projection: 28/12/35/.237/.325/.449/1

1020) Mike Ford NYY, 1B, 26.9 – K/BB statistical darling until 2018, where his 73/39 K/BB in 108 games at Triple-A was nothing to write home about. ETA: Late 2019 Prime Projection: 38/10/41/.252/.338/.421/1

1021) Adam Wainwright STL, RHP, 37.7 – Will compete for a rotation spot in Spring, but hopefully Alex Reyes wins that spot and Wainwright pitches out of the bullpen. 2019 Projection: 7/4.31/1.38/86 in 100 IP

1022) Wily Peralta KC, Closer, 29.11 – Boxberger signing all but eliminates his value, although there are a myriad of ways he can end up back in the closer role. 2019 Projection: 3/4.21/1.39/61/8 in 65 IP

1023) Jose Iglesias CIN, SS, 29.3 – A few stolen bases are about all he will provide for your fantasy team. 2019 Projection: 38/4/31/.263/.306/.388/7

1024) Devon Travis TOR, 2B, 28.2 – Galvis signing eliminates his best path to playing time, and he doesn’t have much value if he isn’t getting immediate at bats. 2019 Projection: 29/6/26/.261/.301/.412/2

1025) Hanley Ramirez CLE, 1B, 35.4 – Best case scenario is a short side of a platoon role. 2019 Projection: 35/10/41/.248/.316/.421/3

XXXX) Kyler Murray OAK, OF, 21.7 – Announced he will forgo a baseball career to be an NFL QB. 2018 Heisman Trophy winner. Murray is an elite athlete with a plus power/speed combo but needs improvement on hitting off-speed pitches. ETA: Never Prime Projection: 27 Passing TD, 16 INT, 7 Rushing TD, 4,000 passing yards, and 700 rushing yards

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By Michael Halpern (@MichaelCHalpern)
Email: michaelhalpern@imaginarybrickwall.com
Twitter: Imaginary Brick Wall (@DynastyHalp)

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Early Season Risers and Fallers from My 2017 Top 100 Fantasy/Dynasty Baseball Prospect Rankings

The 2017 season is still young, but Dynasty owners do not have the luxury of large sample sizes when trade offers start rolling in at all times of the year. Here are the Early Season Risers and Fallers from My 2017 Top 100 Fantasy/Dynasty Baseball Prospect Rankings:

Risers

Aaron Judge (#23) NYY, OF – The boom in strikeouts across Major League Baseball over the past decade is one of the reasons I am not as scared off by high strikeout prospects as I would have been 20 years ago. Back in December, I wrote about MLB breaking its own strikeout record for an amazing 9th straight season, and they are at it again this year, currently sitting at an all-time high mark of 8.3 K/9 and a 21.7% K rate. That is why I remained high on Judge even when many others were jumping ship, because although he would strike out (like everyone else), I knew when he did make contact, he would do damage. And that is exactly what is happening in the early going, as he is slashing .250/.341/.583 with 3 homers and a 11/5 K/BB in 11 games.

Cody Bellinger (#26) LAD, 1B – Fuck it. There isn’t a single at-bat in the minors I find myself gravitating towards more than Bellinger’s. I’m down to ignore that Looney Tunes, Tasmanian Devil swing just like everyone else. Let’s see where this crazy train takes us. Also, maybe my podcast co-host, Ralph Lifshitz, will stop taunting me on twitter every time he gets a hit 😉

Dominic Smith (#29) NYM, 1B – Picked up right where he left off from his dominant second half in 2016, slashing .372/.413/.535 in 11 games at Triple-A. The beginning of his MLB career could look a lot like Stephen Piscotty’s.

Ian Happ (#35) CHC, 2B/OF – Happ is just destroying Triple-A with 6 homers in his first 11 games at the level. I’m starting to think it isn’t so much that the Cubs are especially good at drafting and developing, as much as it is that the other teams are particularly bad. Mark Appel was drafted ahead of Kris Bryant. Brady Aiken, Tyler Kolek, and Carlos Rodon were taken ahead of Kyle Schwarber. Dillon Tate, Tyler Jay, and Carson Fulmer were selected ahead of Ian Happ. It doesn’t take a staff of Ivy League geniuses and a room full of super computers to understand you don’t let the very best college bats slip through your fingers when drafting in the top half of the 1st round.

Francisco Mejia (#49) CLE, C – I have always been a little skeptical of the plus hit tool Minor League guys, and my rankings the last two years can attest to that. Jeff Zimmerman over at Fangraphs has been doing some great research this off-season on Minor League hit tool grades, and the early findings have backed up my apprehension about ranking guys very high based on their plus minor league hit tool. Having said that, what Mejia is doing is just above and beyond silly. After a 50-game hit streak last year, which grabbed the attention of prospect hounds everywhere, he started this season at Double-A hitting safely in all 8 games. There is only so much skepticism a guy can have in the face of such an undeniable skill. My boy Ralph has loved Mejia from get go, and he is also a favorite of Season 1 Top Chef winner, Harold Dieterle, as heard on the star-studded Razzball Baseball Podcast three weeks ago.

Anthony Alford (#52) TOR, OF – The breakout already happened in the second half of last season when everyone was still hemming and hawing over his poor, injury riddled 1st half, but his hot start to this season has put any doubt to rest, as he is slashing .464/.571/.607 with 1 homer and 4 steals in 8 games at Double-A.

Brent Honeywell (#59) TB, RHP – Tampa Bay management must be listening to the Razzball Prospect Podcast, because right after I mentioned how ridiculous it was getting for Honeywell to still be pitching against the clearly inferior Double-A competition, they bumped him up to Triple-A. I know he still has many pitchers ahead of him, but it is not unheard of for truly superior prospects to jump the line. He will get a chance to prove he is worthy of that treatment at Triple-A.

Vlad Guerrero Jr. (#64) TOR, 3B/Juan Soto (#70) WASH, OF – Possibly the two most talented 18-year-old hitters in the world have been carving through full season ball pitching as easily as they did Rookie ball pitching. Other than proximity to the bigs, there isn’t much left to doubt with either of these phenoms.

Rhys Hoskins (#110) PHI, 1B/Trey Mancini (#168) BAL, 1B/Chris Shaw (#183) SFG, 1B – Three hulking first baseman who are proving they are the real deal at higher levels. Shaw is doing it at Double-A (.382/.475/.765), Hoskins is excelling in a non-Reading aided environment at Triple-A (.324/.452/.676), and Mancini is going insane in the Majors with 4 homers in 24 PA. “Nonathletic” first baseman need to rake and force their way into the lineup, and these guys are doing it so far.

Fallers

Tyler Glasnow (#12) PIT, RHP /Lucas Giolito (#14) CHW, RHP – Man is it frustrating to own pitchers in Dynasty Leagues, no matter how hyped they have been throughout their minor league career. Glasnow has shown little improvement on his command, and Giolito’s elite fastball disappeared somewhere along the way. You can throw Alex Reyes in this mix too, who went down with Tommy John surgery.

J.P. Crawford (#13) PHI, SS – I like sitting up in my Ivory Tower and acting all unaffected by minor league numbers as much as the next guy, but Crawford’s continued struggles is making it hard to keep the ruse up. After struggling at Triple-A last year, he is slashing .086/.200/.143 with a 30% K rate in 40 PA this year. His potential is obvious when you watch him play, but you have to start producing at some point.

James Kaprielian (#101) NYY, RHP – The velocity bump followed by arm troubles is what kept Kaprielian out of my top 100, and also the reason I was one of the few (along with Ralph) to place him behind Justus Sheffield on my Top 10 New York Yankees Fantasy Prospects Rankings. As I’m sure you have heard, he will undergo Tommy John surgery this week, and while it’s always sad to see someone get injured, that is the risk associated with adding velocity. Although, in today’s game where everyone is throwing harder and striking everyone out, maybe he felt like he had no choice.

By Michael Halpern (@MichaelCHalpern)
Email: michaelhalpern@imaginarybrickwall.com
Twitter: Imaginary Brick Wall (@ImaginaryBrickW)

Posted on by Michael Halpern

2017 Top 200 Dynasty/Fantasy Baseball Prospects Rankings: 1-200

Prospects season is finally here, and I am ramping it up to a top 200 this year. I took a breath after 100, and put out a traditional top 100 list, but then I continued on. There were just too many legitimately exciting prospects to stop at 100. Without further ado, here is the Complete 2017 Top 200 Dynasty/Fantasy Baseball Prospects Rankings:

*Prime Projection: R/HR/RBI/AVG/OBP/SLG/SB – These projections are meant to give you a general idea of what I think about a prospect’s future stat profile in a relatively good outcome scenario.

1) Yoan Moncada CHW, 2B/3B – The betting man’s #1 prospect in baseball. Power/speed combo is unmatched, but feel free to ignore the 30% K rate at Double-A. Prime Projection: 102/22/89/.275/.360/.479/32 ETA: Mid 2017

2) Andrew Benintendi BOS, OF – The safe choice. Triple-slashed .295/.359/.476 with 2 homers and 1 steal in his first 118 MLB PA. Prime Projection: 93/21/97/.300/.362/.477/11 ETA: 2017 Opening Day

3) Austin Meadows PIT, OF – Across the board production with both a high floor and a high ceiling. Prime Projection: 96/20/86/.293/.351/.470/14 ETA: Late 2017

4) Brendan Rodgers COL, SS/2B – Middle infielder with a plus hit tool and plus power playing in Coors Field. Worth the wait. Prime Projections: 89/27/103/.281/.338/.495/7 ETA: 2018/19

5) Dansby Swanson ATL, SS – Not the highest upside, but safe and MLB ready at a premium position. Prime Projection: 94/17/78/.282/.342/.451/17 ETA: 2017 Opening Day

6) Victor Robles WASH, OF – 5-category stud. Just might be the top prospect in baseball by this time next year. Prime Projection: 96/16/77/.289/.339/.449/30 ETA: 2018/19

7) Raimel Tapia COL, OF – Excellent prospect on his own merits, and Coors Field could turn him into a perennial batting champ. Prime Projection: 92/15/70/.308/.335/.442/18 ETA: Late 2017

8) Lewis Brinson  MIL, OF – Upside rivals any of the guys ranked above him, but plate approach is still raw. Prime Projection: 84/24/89/.262/.329/.473/17 ETA: Late 2017

9) Nick Senzel CIN, 3B – First college hitter selected in the 2016 draft, and completely destroyed full season pro ball. Safe 5-category production going to a great hitter’s ballpark. Prime Projection: 90/20/90/.282/.354/.469/14 ETA: 2018

10) Kyle Tucker HOU, OF – Austin Meadows 2.0. Prime Projection: 94/21/86/.286/.357/.482/16 ETA: 2018/19

11) Eloy Jimenez CHC, OF – Nobody had scouts buzzing like the 6’4’’, 205-pound Jimenez did this year. Highest upside of any power hitting prospect in the game. Prime Projection: 85/29/96/.278/.332/.496/8 ETA: 2019

12) Tyler Glasnow PIT, RHP – Stuff is unhittable, but the red flags are getting harder to ignore (control/command, third pitch, repeating delivery). Prime Projection: 3.27/1.20/216 in 200 IP ETA: Mid 2017

13) J.P. Crawford PHI, SS – Advanced plate approach against older competition is impressive even without the fantasy friendly numbers. High floor and the ceiling isn’t too bad either. Prime Projection: 96/14/62/.282/.371/.410/17 ETA: Late 2017

14) Lucas Giolito CHW, RHP – Rough MLB debut had people questioning his “elite” fastball. Trade to the AL didn’t do him any favors, either. Prime Projection: 3.36/1.18/214 in 209 IP ETA: Mid 2017

15) A.J. Reed HOU, 1B – I hope to see Spring Training reports that Reed “is in the best shape of his life,” because poor conditioning didn’t help his bat speed or lower body injuries last year. Prime Projection: 79/31/95/.266/.351/.496/1 ETA: Mid 2017

16) Brad Zimmer CLE, OF – Strikeouts got worse, but excellent plate approach and power/speed combo still shined. Prime Projection: 87/20/80/.255/.340/.453/24 ETA: Mid 2017

17) Derek Fisher HOU, OF – Very similar fantasy profile to Zimmer, except he can hit lefties too. Prime Projection: 81/23/85/.259/.342/.459/17 ETA: Late 2017

18) Josh Hader MIL, LHP – Ignore the Colorado Springs inflated Triple-A numbers, and focus on the nasty stuff and ridiculous Double-A numbers. Miller Park is no picnic, but it is much worse on righties. Prime Projection: 3.38/1.18/196 in 185 IP. ETA: Mid 2017

19) Tom Murphy COL, C – Raked for two years in a row in his September cups of coffee. This is the year he gets fully unleashed at Coors. Prime Projection: 70/27/85/.256/.312/.467/2 ETA 2017 Opening Day

20) Willie Calhoun LAD, 2B – Elite power and contact numbers, but lack of position leaves his MLB future murky. Wrote about Willie (and a bunch of other sleepers I hit on last off-season) in Reviewing My 2016 Fantasy Baseball Dynasty League Prospect Sleepers Post. Prime Projection: 79/28/91/.280/.324/.484/2 ETA: 2018

21) Tyler O’Neill SEA, OF – Developed a solid plate approach at Double-A to go along with his prodigious power. One of the hardest workers in the minors. Prime Projection: 80/27/90/.265/.323/.482/9 ETA: 2017/18

22) Zack Collins CHW, C – Top college bat who immediately put up a triple-slash of .258/.418/.467 with 6 homers and a 39/33 K/BB in 36 games at High-A. If he has any chance to stick at catcher, Chicago will be the team that lets him. Prime Projection: 78/26/87/.269/.364/.485/2 ETA: 2018

23) Aaron Judge NYY, OF – Ranked Judge #1 in my 2017 Top 10 New York Yankees Fantasy Prospect Rankings. Prime Projection: 80/28/90/.254/.336/.474/6 ETA: 2017 Opening Day

24) Clint Frazier NYY, OF – Nothing to say other than watch this badass 45 second video of Frazier working out. I’m just gonna assume his epic bat speed comes from throwing humongous balls against the wall. Prime Projection: 84/23/86/.280/.343/.479/10 ETA: Late 2017

25) Gleyber Torres NYY, SS – Dominant AFL performance has him rocketing up top 100’s. Doesn’t have a true elite fantasy skill, but should be a legitimate 5-category producer. Prime Projection: 85/21/84/.282/.346/.467/12 ETA: 2018/19

26) Cody Bellinger LAD, 1B/OF – Improved walk and strikeout rates while maintaining power at Double-A. Extreme uppercut swing still gives me some caution. Prime Projection: 77/27/93/.263/.354/.486/7 ETA: 2017/18

27) Franklin Barreto OAK, SS/2B – Looked like toast in the AFL, but had a very strong season as a 20-year-old at Double-A. May not be long for the shortstop position. Prime Projection: 89/17/80/.285/.337/.450/19 ETA: 2018

28) Hunter Renfroe SD, OF – Triple-slashed .371/.389/.800 with 4 homers in his 11 game MLB game debut. Destroyed the PCL too, but look for pitchers to exploit his 3.9% walk rate. Prime Projection: 74/26/91/.260/.304/.470/5 ETA: 2017 Opening Day

29) Dominic Smith NYM, 1B – Went from sneakily overrated last year to sneakily underrated this year. In final 63 games, he slashed .348/.419/.554 with 10 homers and a 29/29 K/BB at Double-A. Just look at that one more time. Prime Projection: 80/22/95/.294/.360/.488/2 ETA: Late 2017

30) Rafael Devers BOS, 3B – Hit tool and hard contact are elite for his age group, but still needs work on getting to his plus raw power in games without selling out for homers. Prime Projection: 83/23/98/.287/.332/.483/7 ETA: 2018/19

31) Ozzie Albies ATL, SS/2B – Jose Altuve is the ceiling, and Jacoby Ellsbury as a middle infielder is … another ceiling comp. Prime Projection: 94/9/59/.292/.369/.438/27 ETA: 2017/18

32) Josh Bell PIT, 1B/OF – Dropped 23 pounds this off-season with the help of Yoga. Honestly not sure if this is a good thing or a bad thing. Prime Projection: 79/19/88/.288/.345/.458/4 ETA: 2017 Opening Day

33) Alex Reyes STL, RHP – Tommy John surgery puts a major damper on the previously near unanimous #1 pitching prospect in baseball. Adds more risk to a profile that already had some risk baked in with his shaky control and command. Prime Projection: 3.36/1.22/200 in 183 IP ETA: 2018

34) Jose De Leon TB, RHP – Fly-ball pitcher with one of the best fastball/changeup combos in the minors. Gopheritis is the biggest risk. Prime Projection: 3.55/1.18/199 in 188 IP ETA: Mid 2017

35) Ian Happ CHC, 2B/OF – All he’s done is rake since his Freshman year of college (.934 OPS in the Big East). Who knows where or if he fits in with the Cubs, but he should be a solid 5-category contributor wherever he plays. Prime Projection: 85/19/76/.277/.358/.447/13 ETA: Late 2017

36) Bobby Bradley CLE, 1B – MVP of the Carolina League with a league leading 29 homers and 102 RBI’s. And no, he didn’t lead the league in strikeouts too … he was tied for second. Prime Projection: 83/32/99/.250/.361/.501/3 ETA: 2019

37) Jesse Winker CIN, OF – Easy left handed swing is currently geared for contact. Smart hitter with a great approach, so at 6’3’’, 215 pounds, I’m betting on him to make the proper adjustments to unlock more power. Prime Projection: 82/19/85/.290/.371/.480/4 ETA: Mid 2017

38) Kyle Lewis SEA, OF – Would have ranked at least 20 spots higher if not for the devastating knee injury. Tireless worker who has been continuously updating his progress on Twitter, so it is easy to give him the benefit of the doubt. Prime Projection: 83/24/87/.275/.346/.487/7 ETA: 2018

39) Amed Rosario NYM, SS – Took off after his promotion to Double-A with a .341 AVG, but it also came with a 21.5% K rate (12.4% at High-A) and .443 BABIP (.345 at High-A). Plus SS defense will push him higher on traditional lists. Prime Projection: 90/13/70/.288/.338/.435/18  ETA: 2018

40) Harrison Bader STL, OF – Bat speed and hard contact are as impressive as anyone’s in the minors. Still needs to work on his plate approach. Prime Projection: 84/21/80/.271/.320/.471/12 ETA: Late 2017

41) Manuel Margot SD, OF – Homerun power has yet to develop, but maintained plus contact and speed at every level. Prime Projection: 89/11/63/.286/.328/.436/26 ETA: 2017 Opening Day

42) Corey Ray MIL, OF – Top power/speed combo in the draft, but hit tool is a legitimate question mark. Tearing meniscus in instructional league wasn’t great either. Prime Projection: 86/16/71/.261/.328/.443/20 ETA: 2018

43) Ronald Acuna ATL, OF – Demolished Winter Ball in Australia, and also had a strong showing in full season A-Ball as an 18-year-old. Might be a consensus top 10 prospect next year. Prime Projection: 90/20/83/.290/.340/.474/15 ETA: 2019

44) Yadier Alvarez LAD, RHP – Pro debut exceeded the hype for the flame throwing, $16 million bonus baby. Put up a pitching line of 2.29/1.07/55/11 in 39.1 IP at Single-A. Prime Projection: 3.35/1.19/194 in I82 IP ETA: 2018

45) Michael Kopech CHW, RHP – Control improved in the AFL, and had a jaw dropping Fall Stars Game performance. Bullpen risk is still present, and also yet to eclipse 74.1 IP in a season. Prime Projection: 3.41/1.22/197 in 183 IP ETA: 2018

46) Willy Adames TB, SS – Improved his K rate, BB rate, and ISO as a 20-year-old at Double-A. Doesn’t have one standout fantasy skill, and may not stick at short. Prime Projection: 84/18/78/.281/.347/.447/11 ETA: 2018

47) Matt Chapman OAK, 3B – Three true outcome slugger. Plus 3B defense should keep his bat in the lineup. Prime Projection: 76/29/88/.248/.341/.463/4 ETA: Late 2017

48) Christin Stewart DET, OF – Led the Florida State League with 24 homers and tacked on another 6 in his 24-game promotion to Double-A. Hopefully his horrible OF defense doesn’t keep his bat out of the lineup. Prime Projection: 79/28/93/.262/.350/.478/3 ETA: 2018

49) Francisco Mejia CLE, C – Elite hit tool with a little pop at the catcher position. Prime Projection: 78/17/86/.291/.332/.450/2 ETA: 2019

50) Anderson Espinoza SD, RHP – Teenage pitchers who are a few years off aren’t my favorite fantasy investments, but Espinoza has superstar raw talent. Prime Projection: 3.34/1.13/200 in 193 IP ETA: 2020

51) Robert Gsellman NYM, RHP – MLB ready with a high floor in a pitcher’s park. Some sneaky deGrom-like upside too. Prime Projection: 3.42/1.21/180 in 194 IP ETA: 2017

52) Anthony Alford TOR, OF – Shook off an injury plagued first half and slashed .266/.389/.464 with 8 homers, 13 steals, and a 61/39 K/BB in final 57 games at High-A (and very similar numbers in the AFL too). That raw power is starting to translate to games. Prime Projection: 81/18/81/.270/.338/.459/17 ETA: 2018

53) Mickey Moniak PHI, OF – Loved to see the report he tacked on 20 pounds of muscle this off-season, because he already had the best hit tool in the draft. This might sound weird, but don’t sleep on the #1 overall pick in the real draft in fantasy drafts. Prime Projection: 91/15/68/.290/.357/.440/19 ETA: 2020

54) Ramon Laureano HOU, OF – Burst onto the scene this year with one of the more exciting power/speed combos in the minors. Made hard contact all season, first at High-A (.945 OPS), then at Double-A (.981 OPS), and finally in the AFL (.817 OPS). Prime Projection: 86/14/74/.273/.341/.444/20 ETA: 2018

55) Luke Weaver STL, RHP – Elite fastball/changeup combo, but is homer prone and needs to develop the curve. 45/12 K/BB in 36.1 MLB IP shows his upside. Prime Projection: 3.54/1.18/187 in 193 IP ETA: Mid 2017

56) Isan Diaz MIL, SS/2B – It seems like small second baseman are finally starting to get some mainstream list love. Diaz has a quick, powerful swing that led the Midwest League with 20 homers. Prime Projection: 82/20/79/.263/.337/.464/9 ETA: 2019

57) Kolby Allard ATL, LHP – Proved back injury is behind him by throwing 12 shutout innings during the minor league playoffs while reaching a career high of 99.2 IP. Can bury plus curve wherever he wants. Prime Projection: 3.35/1.11/185 in 185 IP ETA: 2019

58) Jorge Mateo NYY, SS/2B –  Named “Player Most Likely To Have His Dad Threaten To Turn This Car Right Around If He Doesn’t Stop Whining In The Backseat” in my 2016 MiLB Player Superlatives/Awards. Other than the suspension and down statistical season, still flashed his double plus speed and plus bat speed. Prime Projection: 87/10/60/.275/.320/.410/33 ETA: 2018/19

59) Brent Honeywell TB, RHP – I can only rank an AL East pitcher with good but not great strikeout upside so high, although it is hard not to like a guy who features the endangered screwball. Prime Projection: 3.49/1.14/179 in 190 IP ETA: 2018

60) Francis Martes HOU, RHP – Great stuff but control and command still raw. Looked winded in the AFL with a 4.91 ERA. Prime Projection: 3.45/1.20/183 in 187 IP ETA: 2017/18

61) Alex Verdugo LAD, OF – 12.7% K rate, 8.3% BB rate, and .134 ISO at Double-A while being the same age as the incoming 2017 college draft class. Plus bat speed is his most impressive physical skill. Prime Projection: 80/18/80/.286/.350/.463/6 ETA: 2018

62) Jorge Alfaro PHI, C – Plate approach hasn’t improved at all in 7 years of pro ball, but athleticism, raw power, and bat speed have been enough at every level. Has worked diligently on catcher defense, so like many catchers, refinement at the plate may come later. Prime Projection: 64/20/76/.252/.303/.447/5 ETA: 2017

63) Mitch Keller PIT, RHP – Groundball pitcher with advanced control and command. Effortlessly mowed down Single-A hitters using a hard, tailing fastball, plus curve, and developing change. Prime Projection: 3.45/1.15/173 in 182 IP ETA: 2019

64) Vlad Guerrero Jr. TOR, 3B – True 17-year-old who went straight to advanced, stateside Rookie Ball and slashed .295/.366/.500 with 5 homers and a 14/15 K/BB in his final 31 games of the season. Is a dead ringer for his dad at the plate, so you don’t have to search very hard for a good comp. Prime Projection: 80/30/100/.277/.338/.500/7ETA: 2021

65) David Paulino HOU, RHP – Major injury risk, but legitimate top of the rotation upside. One of the more uncomfortable at-bats in the minors coming in at a long 6’7”, 215 pounds. Prime Projection: 3.38/1.16/177 in 172 IP ETA: Mid 2017

66) Yohander Mendez TEX, LHP – Recently converted reliever with prototypical size (6’5’’, 200 pounds) and a plus fastball/changeup combo. Knocking on the door of the bigs. Prime Projection: 3.40/1.17/179 in 185 IP ETA: Late 2017

67) Kevin Maitan ATL, SS – Some guys are just worth the wait. Could be used as a valuable trade chip in only a few short years too. Prime Projection: 85/27/98/.273/.345/.507/6 ETA: 2021/22

68) Will Craig PIT, 3B – Triple-slashed .379/.520/.731 with 16 homers and a 35/47 K/BB in 55 games in the ACC, and then slashed .280/.419/.362 with 2 homers and a 37/41 K/BB in 63 at Low-A. One of the toughest outs in the minors, but has yet to show power with wood bats. Prime Projection: 79/21/88/.284/.360/.472/3  ETA: 2018/19

69) Triston McKenzie CLE, RHP – Calling him a string bean would an understatement. Has advanced feel for pitching with 3 plus pitches and projection to get the fastball into the mid 90’s. Prime Projection: 3.44/1.13/205 in 195 IP ETA: 2020

70) Juan Soto WASH, OF – Tore through Rookie Ball as a 17-year-old (.361/.410/.550), and then went 9 for 21 in his 6 game Low-A cameo. Smooth lefty swing projects for plus hit and at least above average power. Prime Projection: 80/21/90/.293/.340/.465/7 ETA: 2021

71) Thomas Szapucki NYM, LHP – Classic high upside lefty with a plus fastball, plus curve, and raw control/command. Prime Projection: 3.44/1.23/193 in 180 IP ETA: 2019

72) Jharel Cotton OAK, RHP – Would have ranked in my top 100 last off-season but the Dodgers pitching depth kept him on the outside looking in. That is no longer an issue in Oakland, where he will unleash his plus changeup and various fastballs in their spacious home ballpark. Prime Projection: 3.50/1.22/173 in 180 IP ETA: 2017

73) Erick Fedde WASH, RHP – After a rough start to the season, put up a pitching line of 1.76/1.13/88/20 in 87 IP. Looks like that is the full recovery from Tommy John surgery Washington expected when they took him 18th overall in 2014. Prime Projection: 3.53/1.19/175 in 186 IP ETA: 2017/18

74) Travis Demeritte ATL, 2B – Strikeouts are getting untenably high (33% at High-A) even for my taste, but athleticism, bat speed, power, and speed is too exciting to ignore. Prime Projection: 75/24/83/.243/.322/.449/10 ETA: 2018/19

75) A.J. Puk OAK, LHP – Still raw for a top 10 draft pick out of the SEC, but 6’7’’ lefties with mid 90’s heat and wipeout sliders are a rare breed. There is definitely bullpen risk, but Oakland will give him every opportunity to start. Prime Projection: 3.51/1.26/195 in 185 IP ETA: 2018/19

76) Ian Anderson ATL, RHP – May not have that obscene strikeout upside, but already has solid control with three pitches that flash plus. At a projectable 6’3’’, 170 pounds, there could be a higher ceiling than many are giving him credit for. Prime Projection: 3.39/1.16/184 in 190 IP ETA: 2020

77) Jason Groome BOS, LHP – The inherent risks and development time of high school pitchers, mixed with pitching in Fenway Park and AL East, leads me to be a bit cautious on Groome for fantasy. The 12-to-6 curveball is undoubtedly a beast though. Prime Projection: 3.45/1.20/195 in 190 IP ETA: 2020

78) Mauricio Dubon MIL, SS/2B – Elite contact numbers, plus speed, and emerging power. Seems to be underrated by everyone but Milwaukee. Prime Projection: 85/12/65/.281/.328/.417/18 ETA: 2018

79) Matt Thaiss LAA, 1B/C – If I was confident he could retain catcher eligibility, he would slot in right around Francisco Mejia’s spot as a safer, less upsidey version of him. As a first baseman, the profile just isn’t as exciting. Prime Projection: 78/18/84/.288/.347/.452/4 ETA: 2018

80) Cal Quantrill SD, RHP – Hasn’t pitched a full season since his freshman year of college, but stuff looked nasty upon his return from Tommy John surgery in pro ball, throwing mid-90’s with a double plus changeup and average curveball. Prime Projection: 3.50/1.22/180 in 180 IP ETA: 2018

81) Jahmai Jones LAA, OF – Built like an NFL cornerback at 6’0’’, 215 pounds, which is no coincidence because he comes from a football family. Plus speed with a quick and powerful line drive swing. Prime Projection: 89/15/71/.283/.341/.437/21 ETA: 2020

82) Desmond Lindsay NYM, OF – Has the swing and raw tools to become an impact 5-category contributor, but hamstring injuries have kept the hype in check. Slashed .297/.418/.450 with 4 homers, 3 steals, and a 26/20 K/BB in 32 games at Low-A as a 19-year-old. Now is the time to buy in. Prime Projection: 84/17/78/.278/.337/.449/17 ETA: 2019/20

83) Heath Quinn SF, OF – Destroyed the Southern Conference for 3 years and then did exactly the same in Low-A. Power hitter with underrated athleticism, but strikeouts and AT&T Park hold him back from ranking higher. Prime Projection: 79/23/85/.263/.339/.468/6 ETA: 2019

84) Bobby Dalbec BOS, 3B – Boston took advantage of Dalbec’s down junior season and stole him in the 4th round. After triple-slashing .386/.427/.647 with 7 homers and a 33/9 K/BB in 34 games at Low-A, nobody should be sleeping on him anymore. Prime Projection: 76/25/86/.250/.322/.454/6 ETA: 2019

85) Max Fried ATL, LHP – Last 4 starts had everyone buzzing, striking out 44 batters in 25.1 IP. Considering his pedigree (7th overall pick in 2012) and that it was his first year back from Tommy John surgery, those 4 starts could mean more than the small sample would normally suggest. Prime Projection: 3.53/1.24/181 in 183 IP ETA: 2018

86) Bryan Reynolds SF, OF – Consider him kinda like a poor man’s Ian Happ, except he won’t have a chance at 2B eligibility and AT&T Park can put a serious damper on offensive upside. Prime Projection: 83/18/77/.265/.340/.442/13 ETA: 2019

87) Taylor Trammell CIN, OF – Another football prospect who spurned the pigskin for the horsehide. Yes, baseballs are actually made of horsehide or cowhide. And no, footballs are no longer made of pigskin. Where were we? Oh yea, Trammel is a great athlete with plus speed and viscous bat speed that leads me to believe more power is coming. Prime Projection: 88/14/74/.273/.340/.434/26 ETA: 2021

88) Blake Rutherford NYY, OF – Being old for his high school class and lack of a standout tool are why I’m not completely buying in, but there is no denying the sweet lefty swing that put up a .986 OPS in his pro debut at Rookie Ball. Prime Projection: 86/18/82/.280/.333/.453/13 ETA: 2020

89) Dylan Cease CHC, RHP – Easy mid-90’s heat that he can dial up over 100 with a curve that flashes plus. 2.22 ERA and a 66/25 K/BB in 44.2 IP at Low-A. Prime Projection: 3.48/1.24/190 in 180 IP ETA: 2020

90) Justus Sheffield NYY, LHP – My favorite part of Sheffield’s season was him going into Double-A Reading’s wind tunnel of a stadium for his final start and spinning 4 IP, 2 Hits, 0 ER, 3 BB, 9 K, shutting down their fearsome middle of the order (Alfaro, Cozens, Hoskins). Prime Projection: 3.54/1.23/182 in 188 IP ETA: 2018/19

91) Sean Newcomb ATL, LHP – Control/command hasn’t improved in 3 years of pro ball, but strikeouts and homer suppression are still an enticing combo. Prime Projection: 3.53/1.28/191 in 186 IP ETA: Late 2017

92) Stephen Gonsalves MIN, LHP – The rare pitching prospect who doesn’t try to light up the radar gun, but focuses on high spin rates instead with an extremely easy left-handed delivery. It’s been working for him so far, putting up a pitching line of 2.06/1.02/155/57 in 140 IP split between High-A and Double-A. Prime Projection: 3.59/1.25/187 in 195 IP ETA: 2018

93) Alex Kirilloff MIN, OF – Graduating from the Pennsylvania Cyber School, the home schooled Kirilloff was raised to be a major league hitter, taking batting practice in the afternoons at his dad’s indoor training facility while other kids were suffering through Calculus. It is no wonder he is mature beyond his years at the plate. In other words, he’s a Malcolm Gladwell, 10,000 hours prototype. Prime Projection: 81/22/87/.277/.330/.466/8 ETA: 2020/21

94) Chance Sisco BAL, C – Plus hit tool at the catcher position with not much else. More raw power than game power, so banking on at least average power down the line isn’t the worst bet. Prime Projection: 76/13/74/.282/.350/.420/5 ETA: 2018

95) Renato Nunez OAK, 3B/1B – Great to see him kill it in Winter League after putting up a decent, but still disappointing season in the PCL. This is a former $2.2 million international signing who has displayed power and a solid hit tool at every level. Prime Projection: 78/24/87/.266/.320/.466/2 ETA: 2017

96) Rowdy Tellez TOR, 1B – As my Razzball Prospect Podcast co-host Ralph Lifshitz once said to me, “You’re kinda a bat speed whore,” and while Tellez doesn’t have that explosive bat speed, he checks just about every other box. Prime Projection: 74/22/86/.274/.335/.470/2 ETA: 2018

97) Austin Riley ATL, 3B – Has shown some of the best raw power in his class, hitting 20 homers at Single-A as a 19-year-old, but it comes with average bat speed and mediocre K and BB rates (27.1% and 7.1%, respectively). Prime Projection: 77/25/87/.258/.331/.460/2  ETA: 2020

98) Chase Vallot KC, C – Now this is more my style. Raw power and bat speed leads to Vallot hitting absolute moon shots that have received such gripping Youtube titles such as, “Chase Vallot KILLS this Baseball” and “Chase Vallot just obliterated that baseball.” Ability to stick at catcher is a coin flip at best. Prime Projection: 73/27/84/.253/.339/.466/1 ETA: 2020

99) Leody Taveras TEX, OF – Let’s close out the top 100 with a couple lottery tickets. The production isn’t quite there yet, and they are a long way off, but the upside is elite. Prime Projection: 93/13/72/.287/.332/.435/23 ETA: 2021

100) Fernando Tatis Jr. SD, SS – Hopefully these two lottery tickets turn out better than the one sitting on my coffee table right now. Prime Projection: 83/20/84/.280/.330/.460/11 ETA: 2021

101) James Kaprielian NYY, RHP – Could be ranked higher based on pure scouting reports and video. Velocity ticked up in pro ball, but was shut down for the season with elbow inflammation after his first 3 starts. He did return for 27 IP in the AFL. Prime Projection: 3.57/1.24/171 in 175 IP ETA: 2018

102) Braxton Garrett MIA, LHP – One of the best curveballs in the 2016 draft class. Doesn’t have the huge fastball, but has advanced control and command. Prime Projection: 3.42/1.17/180 in 190 IP ETA: 2020

103) Adrian Morejon SD, LHP – Another pitcher who could be ranked higher based on scouting reports and video, but still too young and too many unknowns to have a clear idea of his future. Prime Projection: 3.43/1.19/185 in 185 IP ETA: 2021

104) Roman Quinn PHI, OF – Brett Gardner is the ceiling. 4th outfielder is the floor. Prime Projection: 81/9/57/.266/.338/.392/31 ETA: 2017

105) Mitch Haniger SEA, OF – Former 1st round pick in 2012 who was slowed down by injuries. Broke out in 2016 with 25 homers and a .999 OPS split between Double-A and Triple-A, and then 5 homers in 109 MLB at-bats. Trade to Seattle dampens the excitement a bit. Prime Projection: 68/22/80/.257/.319/.461/7 ETA: 2017

106) Dan Vogelbach SEA, 1B – Trade to Seattle opened up a path to playing time, but won’t help the power play up. Should be a solid hitting first baseman. Prime Projection: 76/21/84/.280/.355/.468/1 ETA: 2017

107) Max Schrock OAK, 2B – Struck out an absurdly low 7.3% of the time in his first full year of pro ball. It comes with some speed and pop, as well. He did the exact same thing in his 3 years in the SEC, so this didn’t exactly come out of nowhere. Prime Projection: 85/10/68/.283/.324/.423/15 ETA: 2018

108) Shedric Long CIN, 2B – Great find by Eric Longenhagen at Fangraphs. Played solid in part time duty working for Keith Law at ESPN, and then put it into another gear in his full time gig at Fangr … oh wait, we are supposed to be talking about Long here. Just read Longenhagen’s take on him. Prime Projection: 78/18/72/.265/.325/.441/18 ETA: 2019

109) Dustin Fowler NYY, OF – Ranked Fowler 7th in my 2017 Top 10 New York Yankees Fantasy Baseball Prospect Rankings. Prime Projection: 76/15/70/.273/.306/.420/18 ETA: 2018

110) Rhys Hoskins PHI, 1B – Triple-slashed .281/.377/.566 with 38 homers and a 125/71 K/BB in 135 games at Double-A. He was 23 years old and in one of the best hitting ballparks in the minors, so I’m not quite ready to jump in with both feet. Prime Projection: 72/23/86/.273/.341/.466/3 ETA: 2018

111) Brett Phillips MIL, OF – Strikeout rate jumped to 30% at Double-A without adding any power. Did more of the same in the AFL. Still showed a good plate approach, so don’t mind me hanging off the end of the bandwagon here. Prime Projection: 76/18/72/.255/.323/.414/11 ETA: 2018

112) Tyler Beede SF, RHP – Groundball pitcher with some control/command issues. 1.58 ERA with a 51/21 K/BB in final 45.2 IP. Any starter in AT&T Park will get the benefit of the doubt with me. Prime Projection: 3.69/1.26/167 in 184 IP ETA: Late 2017

113) Walker Buehler LAD, RHP – Flashed ace stuff in his brief return from Tommy John surgery, but only time will tell if he can keep that up for 180+ innings. Prime Projection: 3.51/1.22/175 in 175 IP ETA: 2018/19

114) Jack Flaherty STL, RHP – Just a very solid, unexciting season at High-A. Didn’t add the extra mile per hour or two on the fastball, but showed the same advanced pitchability and room for projection that he flashed last season. Prime Projection: 3.55/1.20/172 in 190 IP ETA: 2019

115) Yu-Cheng Chang CLE, SS – Wrote a Yu-Cheng Chang, 2016 Fantasy Baseball Sleeper/Breakout Post for him mid-season, and nothing has changed since then. Prime Projection: 84/16/78/.271/.330/.443/12 ETA: 2019

116) Luis Alexander Basabe CHW, OF – Overshadowed in the Chris Sale trade by Kopech’s 100+ MPH fastball and Moncada’s 30/30 upside, but Basabe is an exciting prospect in his own right. Good athlete with power and plus bat speed. Prime Projection: 83/18/77/.263/.330/.451/16 ETA: 2019

117) Reynaldo Lopez CHW, RHP – Strikeout totals started to match the stuff this season, striking out 10.4 per nine in 109.1 IP split between Double-A and Triple-A. Might ultimately end up in the pen, but Chicago will almost certainly give him every opportunity to start. Prime Projection: 3.70/1.27/169 in 176 IP ETA: 2017

118) Luis Ortiz MIL, RHP – Solid mid-rotation starter headed for a park that is death on righties. Also has injury concerns. Prime Projection: 3.68/1.23/172 in 185 IP ETA: 2018

119) Lucas Erceg MIL, 3B – One of those non 1st round pick, pro debut breakout guys. Smacked 7 homers with a .281 average in 42 games at Single-A. Prime Projection: 72/19/83/.277/.314/.448/7 ETA: 2019

120) Michael Gettys SD, OF – Contact and plate approach still raw, but looks like a star when he does get the bat on the ball. Volatility is very high on this projection. Prime Projection: 75/15/67/.254/.303/.408/21 ETA: 2019

121) Cody Reed CIN, LHP – Underwhelming at Triple-A with a 3.08/1.25/65/20 pithing line in 73 IP, and then atrocious in the majors with a 7.36 ERA and 12 homers against in 47.2 IP. Upside is more of a mid-rotation type, and you just saw the downside. Prime Projection: 3.77/1.27/167 in 183 IP ETA: 2017

122) Yusniel Diaz LAD, OF – Shoulder injury kept the season numbers in check, but closed out the year slashing .295/.336/.500 in his final 27 games at High-A as a 19-year-old. Prime Projection: 77/16/74/.279/.327/.438/14 ETA: 2019

123) Jorge Ona SD, OF – Swing looked oh so sweet in his 2014 Youtube clips, but not quite as good in Instructional League a few months ago. Still has a quick, powerful swing, and hopefully he was just working the rust off. San Diego paid him $7 million for a reason. Prime Projection: 74/24/90/.260/.330/.476/5 ETA: 2019

124) Matt Manning DET, RHP – Prototypical starter build with an athletic delivery and huge fastball. Everything else is in its infancy. Prime Projection: 3.72/1.28/200 in 187 IP ETA: 2020

125) Sean Reid-Foley TOR, RHP – I want to rank him higher, but the SkyDome (Rogers Centre) and the AL East scares me. Maybe I’m dinging him too much, because he has a workhorse build with an electric fastball/slider combo. Prime Projection: 3.80/1.28/190 in 184 IP ETA: 2019

126) Nick Williams PHI, OF – The improvements he made in 2015 with contact and plate approach completely vanished in 2016. Raw tools are still there, so not completely giving up. Prime Projection: 71/18/78/.248/.293/.408/9  ETA: 2017

127) Ryan McMahon COL, 1B/3B – Struggled on the road, slashing .242/.325/.399 with a 30% K rate and .157 ISO, but hitters do most of their damage at home anyway, where McMahon slashed .000/.000/.000 with 0 homers and a 0/0 K/BB in 0 games. Prime Projection: 73/21/81/.262/.320/.458/5 ETA: 2018

128) Delvin Perez STL, SS – Has a chance to be a special and extremely entertaining SS. While the bat is still raw, showed more refinement than expected in his pro debut. Prime Projection: 84/10/66/.269/.309/.381/24 ETA: 2020/21

129) Jake Bauers TB, 1B/OF – Power is the only thing lacking, which isn’t great for a 1B, but everything else is above average. Prime Projection: 75/19/78/.280/.337/.443/6 ETA: 2018

130) Ronald Guzman TEX, 1B – Former $3.5 million international signing who broke out at Double-A, hitting .288 with 15 homers in 102 games. Sweet lefty swing, but at a long 6’5’’, 205 pounds, there are some holes for pitchers to exploit. Prime Projection: 69/20/81/.275/.322/.447/2 ETA: 2018

131) Josh Naylor SD, 1B – Huge raw power but has focused on contact early in his career. Could take a similar developmental path to Dominic Smith. Prime Projection: 76/23/90/.276/.330/.472/4 ETA: 2020

132) Mike Soroka ATL, RHP – Probable mid-rotation starter who is still a few years off. Pretty safe as far as 19 year olds go. Prime Projection: 3.56/1.23/168 in 186 IP ETA: 2019/20

133) Dylan Cozens PHI, OF – Got into a scuffle with his Winter Ball teammate, Boog Powell, after getting made fun of for his inability to hit a breaking ball. He does have some serious raw power though, so if this whole baseball thing doesn’t work out, he should give MMA a try. Prime Projection: 70/23/76/.236/.311/.430/9 ETA: 2018

134) Eric Lauer SD, LHP – Possibly the safest starter from the 2016 draft class. Lack of a huge fastball or devastating off-speed pitch has kept the bandwagon from filling up, but at 6’3’’, 205 pounds, let’s see what a full off-season with professional trainers can do before capping his ceiling. Prime Projection: 3.73/1.25/175 in 190 IP ETA: 2018/19

135) Dakota Hudson STL, RHP – Fast moving college starter with electric stuff and a reliever-ish delivery. Has the build to start, but it might be tempting for St. Louis to use him out of the pen for at least a couple years. Prime Projection: 3.79/1.27/174 in 182 IP ETA: 2018/19

136) Luiz Gohara ATL, LHP – The fact that a deal with Cincinnati fell through due to what team doctors saw in Gohara’s shoulder isn’t a great sign, but if you want to take the leap of faith, there is frontline starter potential here. Prime Projection: 3.53/1.22/165 in 165 IP ETA: 2019

137) Lourdes Gourriel Jr. TOR, INF/OF – Started off hyped to death, then got shit on everywhere, and now seems to have settled in somewhere in between. Prime Projection: 77/17/67/.272/.329/.431/12 ETA: 2018

138) Jacob Faria TB, RHP – Couldn’t quite maintain his 2015 breakout, but the plus fastball/changeup combo still managed a 9.4 K/9 in the upper levels of the minors. Prime Projection: 3.82/1.24/176 in 178 IP ETA: 2017

139) Wladimir Galindo CHC, 3B – Wrote a Wladimir Galindo, 2017 Fantasy Baseball Prospect Sleeper post. Prime Projection: 73/24/86/.257/.331/.464/3 ETA: 2020

140) Garrett Stubbs HOU, C – Wrote a Garrett Stubbs, 2017 Fantasy Baseball Prospect Sleeper post. Prime Projection: 74/10/54/.273/.338/.388/11 ETA: 2018

141) Peter Alonso NYM, 1B – Dominated the SEC and then did more of the same in Low-A. I don’t see a spot for him in New York with Dominic Smith in town, so hopefully he gets traded rather than being used as a pinch-hitting bench bat. Prime Projection: 75/21/84/.271/.329/.452/2 ETA: 2019

142) Fernando Romero MIN, RHP – Flashes some of the nastiest stuff in the minors, but delivery carries some reliever risk, and has yet to eclipse 90.1 IP in a season due to Tommy John surgery in 2014. Prime Projection: 3.59/1.23/167 in 171 IP ETA: 2018

143) Justin Dunn NYM, RHP – Upside is high with a mid-90’s fastball and potentially 3 average+ off speed pitches, but there are a lot of unknowns considering he has barely pitched as a starter for any extended period of time. Prime Projection: 3.61/1.24/173 in 180 IP ETA: 2019

144) Greg Allen CLE, OF – Reminds me a lot of Rajai Davis in both how he looks at the plate, and how he profiles as a player. Speed and contact are his game. Prime Projection: 78/9/57/.271/.323/.387/26 ETA: 2018

145) Franklin Perez HOU, RHP – Impressive full season debut as an 18-year-old, putting up a pitching line of 2.84/1.23/75 in 66.2 IP. Has protypical starter size and build at a broad 6’3’’, 197 pounds, and a delivery that is reminiscent of Freddy Garcia. Prime Projection: 3.67/1.25/181 in 190 IP ETA: 2020

146) Sandy Alcantara STL, RHP – Can ramp the heat up to over 100 MPH, which he used to strike out 11.2 per nine in Single-A and High-A. Everything else is still raw. Prime Projection: 3.71/1.29/187 in 176 IP ETA: 2019

147) Richard Urena TOR, SS – These next two shortstops seem destined to become fringe 12-team starter types for the next decade. Urena will be the guy you take late in redrafts if you need some extra power … Prime Projection: 73/17/65/.268/.311/.420/9 ETA: 2019

148) Nick Gordon MIN, SS – … and you’ll scoop Gordon if you need average. Prime Projection: 78/7/51/.278/.318/.377/14 ETA: 2019

149) Chris Paddack SD, RHP – Here is your chance to “Washington Nationals” your Dynasty League prospect draft by taking a high upside pitcher who just underwent the Tommy John knife. Prime Projection: 3.60/1.18/184 in 175 ETA: 2020

150) Hunter Harvey BAL, RHP – Look up one inch. Although, he has probably been owned in your league for at least 2 years. Prime Projection: 3.48/1.22/153 in 150 IP ETA: 2018/19

151) Tyler Jay MIN, LHP – Stuff wasn’t as electric as hoped after his transition from the bullpen to a starter, but still had a very solid year at High-A with a 2.84 ERA and a 68/21 K/BB in 69.2 IP. Prime Projection: 3.69/1.27/166 in 173 IP ETA: 2018

152) Brock Stewart LAD, RHP – Came out of nowhere in 2016, making his MLB debut after rolling through all three levels of the minors. Rumor has it he is the guy Los Angeles was unwilling to include to close the Brian Dozier deal. Prime Projection: 3.78/1.25/167 in 179 IP ETA: 2017

153) Matt Strahm KC, LHP – Chances of starting this year plummeted when Kansas City signed Jason Hammel. Starters have a way of dropping like flies, though, and he can always transition from the pen in a year or two. Prime Projection: 3.67/1.26/167 in 174 IP ETA: 2017

154) Sam Travis BOS, 1B – Boston’s long term 1B/DH job is wide open, and if Travis can fully recover from a torn ACL, he has a chance to position himself to be the front runner for the position by 2018, if not late 2017. Prime Projection: 68/18/76/.277/.328/.453/3 ETA: 2017/18

155) Amir Garrett CIN, LHP – I’ve scouted Garrett in person multiple times. He has no range on the jumper and poor court vision. They say he has mid-rotation upside as a pitcher, though. We are looking at an elite BASEketball prospect here apparently. Prime Projection: 3.84/1.28/161 in 178 IP ETA: 2017

156) Andrew Toles LAD, OF – Seemed to finally put his off-the-field problems behind him and broke out in 2016, slashing .314/.365/.505 in 105 MLB at-bats. Has a chance to be an almost everyday player for Los Angeles right out of the gate. Prime Projection: 76/11/64/.273/.319/.418/17 ETA: 2017

157) Hunter Dozier KC, 1B/3B/OF – Short of a surprise playoff push, Kansas City almost has to sell off their valuable expiring contracts to replenish a depleted farm system. When that happens, we will find out if the former 8th overall pick is a late bloomer, or an older dude putting up inflated minor league numbers. Prime Projection: 66/19/74/.252/.318/.436/6 ETA: 2017

158) Jose Albertos CHC, RHP – Started one game in Rookie Ball where he spun 4 IP, 0 ER, 1 Hit, 1 BB, 7 K, touching 98 MPH with a plus breaking ball and change-up. Then was shadily shut down with “arm soreness,” aka, please don’t ask about him in a trade. Prime Projection: 3.63/1.22/175 in 175 IP  ETA: 2021

159) Patrick Weigel ATL, RHP – Overshadowed by the higher profile arms in Atlanta’s system, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Weigel ended up better than all of them. He is built like a rock, hides the ball well, and can pump the heat into the upper 90’s. Only reason I’m hesitant to rank him higher is that he was far more physically advanced than the A-Ball hitters he was facing, and wasn’t quite as impressive in his brief Double-A debut, although he was at a career high IP. Prime Projection: 3.80/1.27/158 in 172 IP ETA: 2018

160) Norge Ruiz OAK, RHP – Thrives by commanding his off-speed pitches and is a true artist on the mound. One of those guys who just owns the rubber (the 13-year-old in me tells me I should probably rephrase that). Prime Projection: 3.76/1.24/149 in 171 IP ETA: 2018

161) Robert Stephenson CIN, RHP – The results weren’t there but the stuff still was. Prime Projection: 3.92/1.31/167 in 173 IP ETA: 2017

162) Chris Iriart OAK, 1B – Wrote a Chris Iriart, 2017 Fantasy Baseball Prospect Sleeper post. Prime Projection: 68/23/79/.253/.317/.450/1 ETA: 2019

163) Randy Arozarena STL, INF/OF – The soon to be 22-year-old Arozarena signed with St. Louis for $1.25 million, and if you are going to trust one team’s scouting department, it is St. Louis’. He profiles as a prototypical leadoff man. Prime Projection: 79/9/57/.273/.334/.382/20 ETA: 2018/19

164) Grant Holmes OAK, RHP – Basically the same pitcher he was when he was drafted 22nd overall in 2014. As is, he can be a groundball back-end starter, but the raw stuff leaves room for more. Prime Projection: 3.86/1.30/159 in 171 IP ETA: 2019

165) Miguel Andujar NYY, 3B – Ranked Andujar 10th in my 2017 Top 10 New York Yankees Fantasy Baseball Prospect Rankings. Prime Projection: 68/19/74/.277/.330/.434/5 ETA: 2018

166) Ke’Bryan Hayes PIT, 3B – Hayes was the guy Weigel was facing in that video I linked to above. He has a mature approach at the plate and should develop into a solid overall hitter. Plus, how can I not root for the kid that came from this guy’s loins. Prime Projection: 73/18/77/.282/.334/.440/4  ETA: 2020

167) Casey Gillaspie TB, 1B – 1st round pick in 2014 who has hit well every year in pro ball. The power and hit tool aren’t super exciting for a first baseman, but I can see him sitting in someone’s second UTIL spot in a few years. Prime Projection: 69/20/77/.265/.338/.450/3 ETA: Late 2017

168) Trey Mancini BAL, 1B – MLB ready with a legitimate shot to be an average-ish hitting first baseman. Just doesn’t have a spot right now. Prime Projection: 63/20/77/.267/.320/.448/2 ETA: 2017

169) Phil Bickford MIL, RHP – The fastball velocity dropping into the low 90’s is more concerning than the 50-game suspension. Prime Projection: 3.75/1.27/153 in 161 IP ETA: 2018/19

170) Chance Adams NYY, RHP – My prospector in crime, Ralph Lifshitz, just loves his small righties, so I’ll let him wax poetic about Adams for you. And while you’re at it, you can read his take on the rest of the Yankees prospects, because Yanks prospects just never get the hype they deserve 😉 Prime Projection: 3.93/1.29/163 in 166 IP ETA: 2017/18

171) Frankie Montas OAK, RHP – 6’2’’, 255 pounds with an elite fastball/slider combo. Bullpen risk is considerable, although Oakland consistently gives pitchers like him a chance to start. Prime Projection: 3.76/1.32/159 in 162 IP ETA: 2017/18

172) Carson Fulmer CHW, RHP – High tempo, violent delivery which Chicago tried to calm down to disastrous results. Looked better after ditching the new delivery, but there is a reason Chicago tried to change it in the first place. Prime Projection: 3.99/1.34/163 in 164 IP ETA: 2017

173) Kevin Newman PIT, SS – Solid defensive SS with excellent contact numbers and not much else. Prime Projection: 81/9/58/.288/.342/.394/13 ETA: 2018

174) Trent Clark MIL, OF – I’m obviously not that high on Clark, but I’m willing to blame his poor 2016 on injuries. Still has enticing 5-category upside if it all comes together. Prime Projection: 80/15/70/.269/.338/.436/15 ETA: 2019

175) Brady Aiken CLE, LHP – Stuff didn’t look the same after returning from Tommy John surgery, but next season will be the true barometer of his future potential. Prime Projection: 3.75/1.25/165 in 165 IP ETA: 2019/20

176) Ryan O’Hearn KC, 1B – Sweet lefty swing with power and strikeouts. Prime Projection: 60/20/76/.254/.324/.432/2 ETA: 2018

177) Dillon Tate NYY, RHP – Yanks bought low on Tate in the Carlos Beltran trade, and while his stuff looked much better in the AFL, it was still a long way off from what he showed in 2015. Prime Projection: 3.94/1.28/162 in 175 IP ETA: 2018

178) Anfernee Grier ARI, OF – One of my favorite pre-draft sleepers, but pro debut exposed how raw he still is. Legitimate power/speed combo is worth taking a chance on. Prime Projection: 76/15/68/.257/.313/.426/17 ETA: 2019

179) Will Benson CLE, OF – A very raw blend of bat speed, power, and athleticism. Like many guys ranked in the back of this top 200, he is high risk, high reward. Prime Projection: 77/25/82/.244/.326/.462/11 ETA: 2021

180) Joey Wentz ATL, LHP – The epitome of a risky, high upside teenage pitcher. Stuff, velocity, and health have all been inconsistent, but at his best, flashes top of the rotation upside. Prime Projection: 3.66/1.23/179 in 177 IP ETA: 2020

181) Magneuris Sierra STL, OF – Plus contact and speed, but will need to improve his plate approach to hit at the top of a MLB lineup. Prime Projection: 78/10/54/.273/.320/.397/21 ETA: 2019

182) Forrest Whitley HOU, RHP – I was going to make a Forrest Gump joke here, but then I realized I haven’t seen a Forrest Gump joke in like a decade, so I’m not gonna be the one to open up that box of chocolates. Prime Projection: 3.77/1.29/173 in 190 IP ETA: 2020

183) Chris Shaw SF, 1B – Hopefully he gets traded away from AT&T Park, and considering Brandon Belt is locked up until 2021, it’s not a bad bet to make. Prime Projection: 65/22/79/.260/.321/.462/0 ETA: 2018

184) Vladimir Gutierrez CIN, RHP – Signed for $4.75 million with Cincinnati. Prototypical starter size at an athletic 6’3’’, 173 pounds, and has the fastball/curveball combo that scouts love to dream on. Prime Projection: 3.78/1.26/167 in 174 IP ETA: 2019

185) Domingo Acevedo NYY, RHP – Fastball can rival Kopech’s, but a delivery that will very likely lead to the bullpen. Prime Projection: 3.93/1.31/146 in 151 IP ETA: 2018/19

186) Jordan Sheffield LAD, RHP – Electric stuff with mid 90’s heat, but there is size, injury, and bullpen risk. Prime Projection: 3.83/1.32/158 in 168 IP ETA: 2018/19

187) Teoscar Hernandez HOU, OF – Solid power/speed combo with nowhere to play. Not the type of guy I would hold, but has fantasy friendly skills if he can force his way into the lineup. Prime Projection: 71/15/63/.255/.316/.431/12 ETA: 2017

188) Jeimer Candelario CHC, 3B – Smart hitter without quite enough power to get really excited about him. Nowhere to play in Chicago either. Prime Projection: 58/17/72/.276/.332/.438/1 ETA: 2017

189) Luis Almanzar SD, SS – Almanzar is so raw and toolsy, it even extends to his Twitter game. He has only 112 followers, but if his profile picture is any indication, that will only rise. Prime Projection: 80/20/80/.279/.334/.461/10 ETA: 2022

190) Lazaro Armenteros OAK, OF – Armenteros and Almanzar have so many tools, it would make Tim “The Toolman” Taylor jealous. Yea, I just dropped a 90’s Home Improvement reference on you. Prime Projection: 78/22/85/.270/.330/.468/15 ETA: 2022

191) Freudys Nova HOU, SS – Bat first SS with quick bat speed and natural loft in his swing. Has drawn comparisons to Hanley Ramirez. Prime Projection: 76/22/84/.265/.327/.465/13 ETA: 2022

192) Chris Okey CIN, C – Underrated first year player draft target. Has legitimate power and almost certain to stick at catcher. Prime Projection: 67/19/75/.258/.319/.447/4 ETA: 2019

193) Sixto Sanchez PHI, RHP – Short but thick righty who sits mid-90’s with raw secondaries. Just started pitching about 2 years and is only 18 years old, so there is plenty of room and time for further refinement. Prime Projection: 3.70/1.20/155 in 170 IP ETA: 2020

194) Jose Almonte TEX, OF – Wrote about Almonte in my 2017 Deep Dynasty Prospect Sleepers post. Prime Projection: 73/23/87/.240/.302/.454/7 ETA: 2020

195) Josh Lowe TB, 3B – 13th overall pick in the 2016 draft. All raw power and strikeouts right now. Prime Projection: 79/23/82/.269/.345/.466/9 ETA: 2021

196) Nolan Jones CLE, 3B – 36.6% K rate in Rookie Ball is concerning considering he was known for his hit tool in high school, especially when it comes with 0 homers. I don’t want to ding an 18-year-old too much for a poor pro debut, though, and he did have a .388 OBP. Prime Projection: 76/21/81/.267/.348/.460/8 ETA: 2021

197) Aristides Aquino CIN, OF – Should be nicknamed, “Double-A, Awesome Aristedes,” for all my old-school Howard Stern fans out there. With all these 90’s references, maybe I’m starting to get nostalgic about nearing the end of this top 200. Prime Projection: 71/22/78/.249/.294/.448/14 ETA: 2018

198) Oscar De La Cruz CHC, RHP – Power pitcher with big time strikeout upside, but missed over half the season with forearm soreness, and still hasn’t pitched above Single-A as a soon to be 22-year-old. Prime Projection: 3.93/1.26/166 in 162 IP ETA: 2019

199) Cionel Perez HOU, LHP – Plus fastball and curve with an athletic delivery, but signing bonus was cut by more than half when the medicals didn’t come back great on his left arm. Prime Projection: 3.88/1.27/150 in 160 IP ETA: 2019

200) Victor Garcia STL, OF – Bat speed and raw power are mesmerizing in batting practice, but hit tool is a major question mark. With strikeouts exploding around MLB and pitchers throwing harder than ever, elite bat speed prospects like Garcia become more and more valuable. Prime Projection: 74/27/91/.250/.315/.484/2 ETA: 2022

By Michael Halpern (@MichaelCHalpern)
Email: michaelhalpern@imaginarybrickwall.com
Twitter: Imaginary Brick Wall (@ImaginaryBrickW)