Posted on 02 December 2008
H/W: 6-5 200 lb. B/T: R/R DOB: 12/27/88
Porcello's first professional season was a resounding success giving Tigers team officials a bit of relief after signing him to a $7 million MLB deal topped with a $3.5 million signing bonus. Porcello pitched the entire season at High-A Lakeland where he compiled an 8-6 record with a 2.66 ERA and an appealing 2.48 GO/FO ratio. Porcello features four MLB-quality pitches including a 92-94 MPH fastball with heavy sink and late movement. He can bump it up to the 96-97 MPH range when needed. His curve has a sharp 12-6 break and his changeup is evolving into a MLB plus pitch. What's more is that Porcello has a good idea how to use them effectively in game settings. Porcello has impeccable control, surrendering just 33 BB and 7 HR in 125 IP to advanced Florida State League hitters. His delivery is clean, balanced and technically sound which should help him to stay healthy, and his long, projectible frame shows promise of building more strength and stamina. Despite his considerable tools and attributes, it was odd to see a low strikeout rate from Porcello. He struck out just 73 hitters in 125 IP. Additionally, Porcello became quite hittable with runners on base, as his ERA jumped from 0.68 w/bases empty to 4.88 w/runners aboard. Both of these could be attested to the fact that Porcello pitched in a highly talented and advanced league at a young age. Rick Porcello is one of baseball's elite young pitchers and his future as Detroit's frontline starter will happen soon.
2009 Projection: Porcello signed a major league contract, which means that barring any unforeseen setbacks the Tigers will aggressively promote him through their system. There are several prognosticators that believe he will wear a Tigers uniform at some point in 2009. A more prudent projection would place him at AA Erie in April with a move to AAA Toledo happening at some point in the middle of the season. If all goes well, he may get some September innings with the big club and a spot in the 2010 rotation seems quite likely. Porcello's first year autographs in the 2008 Donruss Threads and Donruss Elite Extra autos are very popular on eBay right now and should grow in value as Porcello develops into the Tigers' future ace.
Key Rick Porcello Baseball Cards:
- 2008 Donruss Threads Diamond Kings Auto #/500
- 2008 Donruss Elite Extra Auto #/???
Posted on 30 November 2008
H/W: 6-2 180 lb. B/T:R/R DOB: 10/26/87
Rosa has risen up the Chicago Cubs prospect chart after a fine full season showing at Peoria. Rosa's 43 doubles and 81 RBI for a mediocre team shows promise of more power to come from this young 1B prospect. Like many young hitters, Rosa strikes out too often and doesn't walk enough. Defensively, he is an adequate fielder at either infield corner though his bat will need to produce enough power to stay there. Rosa is still under the radar as many prospects go though his development into a notable everyday player is not a sure thing. Keep an eye on him at High-A Daytona next season. If he can bump the power numbers up and cut down the K totals, he may open a few more eyes.
Key RC's:
- 2008 Donruss Threads Gold Auto #/973
Posted on 27 November 2008
H/W: 5-11 165 lb. B/T: R/R DOB: 9/1/89
The Mets aggressively pushed Tejada this season and it showed. Tejada played the full season at High-A St. Lucie skipping a level. Not surprisingly, Tejada struggled to maintain his sterling BB/K ratio and SB numbers. Tejada's glove is ahead of his bat right now as he possesses above average range and arm strength to play SS at the MLB level. His baserunning speed is good, though his SB numbers decreased from 35 in '07 to just 8 this season. Tejada will never hit for much power, though his plate discipline is advanced for a player his age and could produce a solid average suitable for a top of the order hitter. Additionally, Tejada is a mentally tough "grinder" whose work ethic has been lauded by team officials.
2009 Projection: Tejeda was the victim of an overly zealous organization that tends to rush its prospects too quickly through their system. Expect Tejeda to repeat at St. Lucie with better results. Watch to see if he can develop a little bit more extra-base pop while increasing his average. Tejeda is very young still and has quite a way to go before realizing his projectible skills. Temper your expectations, but do keep an eye on his development.
Key Ruben Tejada Baseball Cards:
- 2008 Donruss Threads Auto #/999
Posted on 24 November 2008
H/W: 5-11 205 lb. B/T: R/R DOB: 5/2/83
Patterson's upside has cooled significantly since his solid 2006 season where he hit 25 HR and had 86 RBI. Much of this can be attributed to a horrific injury that shattered his forearm when Patterson was struck by a pitch early in the 2007 season. Though he seems to have fully recovered from this injury, his power numbers have yet to return to their pre-'07 levels. Patterson has a compact, powerful swing that drives balls well to all fields. Defensively he profiles to be an average corner outfielder with below average speed. For someone of his power potential, Patterson does not walk very much and his unorthodox swing can be prone to prolonged slumps. Patterson's future is likely as a platoon player who can provide some HR pop off of the bench. Given his age of 26 in 2009, this is the best upside that Patterson provides. Expect Patterson to get a look with the big club at some point in '09.
Key Ryan Patterson Baseball Cards:
- 2006 Bowman Chrome Prospects Ryan Patterson
- 2006 Bowman Sterling Ryan Patterson
- 2008 Donruss Threads Ryan Patterson Gold Auto #/775
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2008 Donruss Elite Ryan Patterson Lsu Patch Auto Rc 250
US $19.99
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Posted on 24 November 2008
H/W: 6-2 205 lb. B/T: R/R DOB: 12/25/88
By examining the stats, it is easy to sum up Hamilton's 2008 season. The former supplemental 1st round pick was challenged by the Tigers as he began the season at full season Low-A West Michigan where he struggled mightily with his control and confidence. Once the short season Gulf League began, Hamilton was sent there to work out his issues and he became an entirely different pitcher. Stuffwise, Hamilton has lots to be optimistic about. His fastball sits at 90-93 MPH, though it could a couple of notches as he matures and his nasty 80-82 MPH curveball is thought to be the best offspeed pitch in the entire Tigers system. Combined with an average changeup, Hamilton has the stuff to be a solid #2 pitcher down the road. His frame looks to be durable and strong enough to handle a 200 inning work load and his mechanics are said to be smooth and clean. Command of his pitches and poise are the major areas that Hamilton needs to work on in order to fulfill his potential.
2009 Projection: Hamilton will likely get another crack at full season Western Michigan in 2009. Expect him to build on his successful GCL campaign and keep an eye on his BB/K numbers. The Tigers would be best served to take their time with Hamilton, resisting the temptation to develop him at the same speed as future ace Rick Porcello. In the long run, this move could pay considerable dividends reviving values of his 2008 Donruss Threads autographs.
Key Brandon Hamilton Baseball Cards:
- 2007 Bowman Chrome Draft
- 2008 Donruss Threads Gold Auto #/972
Posted on 18 November 2008
H/W: 6-1 185 lb. B/T: R/R DOB: 4/8/87
Hellickson pitched at two levels including a dominant early season stint at High-A Vero Beach where he went 7-1 with a 2.00 ERA and a Greg Maddux-like 5 BB/83 K in 76.2 IP. Hellickson struggled initially at AA Montgomery losing in 4 of his first 5 outings before going on a hot streak where he struck out at least 5 hitters in each of his last 10 starts. Hellickson has a 92-94 MPH fastball and a big breaking curve ball that keeps hitters off balance. His control is the best in the Rays' system and his delivery is clean and consistent. Hellickson threw 152 innings this year which should put to rest questions about his durability. He does still need to keep his fastball down as he allowed 22 HR this year and a .292 BA against AA hitters.
2009 Projection: Hellickson will likely begin the '09 season at AA Montgomery again in hopes that he gets off to the same hot start that he did at Vero Beach last season. If all goes well, he should get a promotion to AAA. Much like fellow prospect Wade Davis, Hellickson may find himself having to wait for an oppportunity to pitch in the talented Rays rotation. When he does, Hellickson has all the makings of a #1 or #2 starter.
Key Jeremy Hellickson Baseball Cards:
- 2006 Bowman Chrome Prospects
Posted on 17 November 2008
H/W: 6-5 230 lb. B/T: R/R DOB: 6/24/86
Calamitous, injury riddled, disappointing; these are just a few words that could describe Phil Hughes' anticipated foray into Yankee lore. Hughes was miserable in April compiling a 0-4 record with a 9.00 ERA and a 2.18 WHIP in 22 IP. Hughes then missed a considerable amount of the season recovering from a stress fracture in his rib. After a lengthy minor league rehab, Hughes returned to the Yankees and pitched well in a couple of September outings and his Arizona Fall League season, while it has had its ups and downs, has shown that Hughes is once again healthy. Hughes still has dynamite stuff His fastball can still hit 95 MPH and his curveball, slider and change are all potentially solid pitches. Some time and patience will be needed for the 22 year old hurler to regain his confidence and refine his control.
2009 Projection: Expect the Yankees to be cautious in bringing Hughes back. Given that he has thrown in the Arizona Fall League, it would make sense for Hughes to start the season at AA or AAA. The Yankees will be addressing the holes in their starting rotation with high priced free agent acquisitions, which should allow for Hughes to slowly work his way back into the New York spotlight. Skeptical and risk averse collectors have shied away from Hughes' various '04 rookie cards, but the market for his Bowman Chrome Draft and Donruss Elite Extra autographs could heat up again after a few successful outings.
Key Phil Hughes Baseball Cards:
- 2004 Bowman Chrome Draft Phil Hughes Auto
- 2004 Donruss Elite Extra Phil Hughes Auto #/1,485
- 2004 SP Prospects Phil Hughes Auto #/400
- 2004 Topps Chrome Update Phil Hughes
Posted on 16 November 2008
H/W: 6-2 190 lb. B/T: R/R DOB: 12/19/87
Brewer struggled mightily out of the '08 gate even though he was repeating at West Virginia. Regardless, the Brew Crew promoted him to High-A Brevard County where he performed better, especially after the All-Star break. Brewer has an exciting blend of tools including athleticism, speed, and power potential that ranks well above average. His long and lean frame indicates that he can develop 15-20 HR power as he matures, and his speed will allow for him to steal 30-40 bags each year. The fly in Brewer's ointment revolves around his rawness at the plate. True, he cut his strikeouts back from 170 in '07 to 111 last season and his walk rate remained the same but he needs to continue to increase his competence in working counts and making contact with off speed pitches as he progresses.
2009 Projection: There is good reason to think that his power will develop based on the 30 doubles he smacked in pitcher-friendly leagues last season. Look for Milwaukee to have Brewer repeat at Brevard County to start the season, with a trip to Huntsville being a distinct mid to late season possibility. The Brewers have J.J. Hardy manning the helm at shortstop for the next few seasons which should be more than enough time for Brewer to develop into a Brewer. Keep a close eye on his BB/K ratio and also to see if he can increase his SLG%. Brewer's skill set and ceiling is similar to that of Tampa Bay Rays star B.J. Upton. If he can refine his skills, his 2008 Donruss Threads autographs will be a worthwhile investment.
Key Brent Brewer Baseball Cards:
- 2008 Bowman Chrome Prospects
- 2008 Donruss Threads Gold Auto #/470
Posted on 16 November 2008
H/W: 6-2 185 lb. B/T: L/L DOB: 12/21/88
Intrigue abounds with this young prospect. Duffy has been nothing short of dominant since being drafted by the Royals in the 3rd round in 2007. He has a nice 90-93 MPH fastball that can reach 95 at times and could well add more velocity as he builds strength. Additionally, he has improved his power curveball and is no longer afraid to pitch inside to hitters. Duffy exhibited much better control this season walking 25 hitters in 86.1 IP.
Duffy does have some kinks in his delivery Read the full story
Posted on 15 November 2008
H/W: 6-3 215 lb. B/T: L/L 2/18/84
Bogusevic was drafted as a pitcher in the 1st round of the 2005 draft A two way star at Tulane, the Astros decided to scrap Brian's mound future and start him exclusively as an OF. Bogusevic adapted very well hitting .371 with 3 HR 20 RBI and 8 SB in 42 games. Unlike many raw hitters, Bogusevic has an adept grasp of the strike zone. Last season he posted an impressive 16 BB/24 K ratio. Bogusevic has a muscular and athletic 6-3 215 lb. frame that shows promise to put up good power numbers and a high average. Bogusevic has Read the full story
Posted on 15 November 2008
H/W: 6-0 195 lb. B/T: R/R DOB: 3/2/85
A look at Norris' numbers would indicate that he had a mediocre season for AA Corpus Christi, but the bulk of his unsuccessful outings came prior to him being shelved in late May with elbow soreness. Upon his return, Norris pitched much better pumping in his fastball at 93-95 MPH and improving the bite Read the full story
Posted on 14 November 2008
H/W: 6-3 190 lb. B/T: L/L DOB: 8/11/88
Lambo was quite impressive in his first full season showing off the sweet swing and power potential that made him a top flight draft pick. Lambo is an effective run producer who has a good feel for hitting that should render a high average and 25-30 HR per season at the big league level. Defensively, Lambo is a decent fielder who uses good instincts and routes to negate his below average speed. Some feel that he may be better suited for 1B as his frame fills out more and speed decreases. One area of his game that Lambo needs to Read the full story
Posted on 14 November 2008
H/W: 6-0 180 lb. B/T: L/R DOB: 3/29/89
Oliveras was a 9th round selection in the 2007 draft out of Puerto Rico's baseball acadamy. The Reds are excited about his bat though it is early to tell just what it will produce at higher levels. From initial scouting, Oliveras has a line drive producing left-handed swing that could projectibly produce 15-20 HR power as he matures. Oliveras has average speed and profiles as a solid defensive LF. The Reds will likely take their time with Alexis, as his plate discipline and power are currently very raw and will take a long time to develop. Though he is projectible, he is far from a sure fire top prospect. Keep an discerning eye on his development.
2009 Projection: Oliveras will likely begin the '09 season at extended spring training with a short season stint at Billings likely. The plate discipline has to develop in order for Oliveras to progress. This season should give a better view of just what to expect out of him in the future.
Key Alexis Oliveras Baseball Cards:
- 2008 Donruss Threads Alexis Oliveras Gold Auto #/975
Posted on 13 November 2008
H/W: 6-2 185 lb. B/T: R/R DOB: 10/10/88
Colina performed pretty well to the challenge of his first full season at Low-A Wisconsin. Given his age and long lean frame, it is conceivable to expect that Colina can add strength and power numbers as he matures. Colina has average speed though he doesn't use it as well as he can on the basepaths. He has a nice line drive swing and makes good contact, though he would be best served to work on extending counts and drawing more walks. Defensively, Colina has Read the full story
Posted on 11 November 2008
H/W: 6-3 185 lb. B/T: R/R DOB: 2/1/90
Pimentel is an intriguing young pitching prospects signed out of the Dominican Republic. Pimentel features a 90-93 MPH fastball that could gain more velocity has he builds strength. His changeup is advanced with good fade and it has the makings of a strikeout pitch. He is still getting a feel for his curveball and two seam fastball but there is much promise with those pitches as well. Pimentel demonstrated good control and an aggressive demeanor on the mound. Pimentel will need to continue working on keeping the ball down in the strike zone. His offspeed pitches have a tendency to stay up in the zone and, when they do, they are hit hard. It would also be nice to see him get more ground ball outs as well. Stolmy is a long way off right now but his ceiling remains quite high. Expect Pimentel to begin next season at Low-A Greenville next season.
Key Stolmy Pimentel Baseball Cards:
- 2008 Donruss Threads Stolmy Pimentel Gold Auto #/975
2009 Projection: Ramirez should get his first sniff of full season ball this season at Low-A Hagerstown. The challenge for J.P. will be to show that he can generate enough pop to be considered as a starting outfielder. He is close to maxed out physically which limits his upside. Ideally, he is a solid #2 hitter with 10-15 HR power and a batting average that hovers around .300. Watch his doubles totals this season, if he cracks more than 30, there is a good chance that he could produce the kind of pop that belies his size. He was able to do this as a prep player, but wooden bats seem to weed out the pretenders from the contenders.
