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Below is a list of the Red Sox prospects, listed alphabetically. The more serious prospects have their names in red, with a breakdown of their strengths, weaknesses and overall assesments. At the bottom of the page is a list of players to look out for, with a brief, overall assessment of the player.
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 180 lbs
Position: Outfielder
Born: 5/6/73
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Israel Alcantara is a a tremendous power hitter. In '97, Alcantara hit 27 home runs. In '98, he hit 28 home runs, and last season he hit 29 home runs. When Alcantara was called up to Boston this year, he was leading the International League in home runs. He has the potential to hit the ball out of the park any time.
Weaknesses: Alcantara strikes out far too much, however that often comes with the territory of being a power hitter. Alcantara is a below-average fielder, and his arm, though strong, isn't very accurate. Alcantara already has somewhat of a bad rap in Boston from his lack of hustle in a game against the Chicago White Sox, and he still needs to work on hitting a major-league breaking ball.
Overall: Alcantara will never be an All-Star in the big leagues. He will probably be a starter for a couple of years in his career. He makes for a good pinch-hitter with the ability to start some games. His inability to hit the breaking ball is grossly overrated as well. His career will go as far as his bat will take him. |
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 185 lbs
Position: Outfielder
Born: 7/23/80
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Class A Gulf Coast League Red Sox
Strengths: Rick Asadoorian was Boston's #1 overall pick in the 1999 draft. Asadoorian has five-tool potential, and sort of resembles former Red Sox outfielder Dwight Evans. Asadoorian can steal bases, hit for average and has a strong, accurate arm in the outfield. He can potentially hit for very good power if his coaches work with him. His best tool is probably his arm, however he is certainly no slouch at the plate. His swing is tight and compact, sort of like that of Red Sox top prospect Dernell Stenson. Asadoorian has strong baseball instincts to go along with his natural athleticism. His range in the outfield is also quite good.
Weaknesses: Asadoorian signed late after the Red Sox drafted him, so this season will be his first full season in professional baseball. His power right now isn't what it could be, though that could change within a year or so.
Overall: The Red Sox project Asadoorian as a center fielder. However, he could very well end up in right field. The Red Sox don't have many good outfield prospects, so Asadoorian could progress through the system quickly once he hits his stride.
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Height: 6'2"
Weight: 180 lbs
Position: Pitcher
Born: 11/6/80
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Class A Augusta Greenjackets
Strengths: The Red Sox picked Baker out of Pioneer Valley High School in Layden, Massachusetts with the 40th overall pick in the draft. Baker, 19, has been nothing short of phenomenal in his first full season in the Red Sox organization. Baker has great control and tremendous composure for someone so young. Baker has great size for a pitcher. His pitches include a 93 MPH fastball, a 91 MPH curveball, and a changeup. With three excellent pitches to focus on, Baker should be able to progress through the farm system rapidly. Baker also seldomly gives up home runs.
Weaknesses: Baker occasionally lets pitches get away from him, hitting more batters than he'd like and throwing more wild pitches than one would want. However, this is common from pitchers in Class A baseball, especially pitchers who are just 19 years-old.
Overall: Baker could become the organization's top prospect if he puts up another season or two of very good numbers. Baker could be challenging for a starting spot in Boston by 2003, when he will be just 22 years-old. The Red Sox have told teams that they will not trade Baker in any package, so the Red Sox clearly think highly of the right-hander.
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Height: 6'1"
Weight: 180 lbs
Position: Third Baseman
Born: NA -- 18 years-old
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Gulf Coast Rookie League Red Sox
Strengths: Tony Blanco is well on his way to becoming the Gulf Coast League MVP. Blanco, 18, is tearing up the league, maintaining a batting average over .400, a high slugging percentage and a high on-base percentage to go with his good home run, RBI and extra-base hits totals. Blanco is so young, but yet so good. He could work his way up the charts as the organization's number one prospect within a couple of years. Also, unlike other young Dominicans entering professional baseball in America, Blanco does not suffer from any type of malnutrition. Blanco is a five-tool player with major-league superstar potential. He is usually one of the first men in the clubhouse and one of the last to leave. With this work ethic, he should be able to add muscle to help his power hitting, since he is still growing at age 18.
Weaknesses: Blanco has a strong arm, however he will have to learn to use it more accurately. He also isn't the finest fielder, however he is improving on that constantly with his GCL coaches.
Overall: Wilton Veras is ahead of him on the prospect depth charts at third base. However, Blanco may be the organization's best third base prospect since Wade Boggs. The difference between Boggs and Blanco is that Blanco hits for much better power. Watch out for this kid. |
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 180 lbs
Position: Outfielder
Born: 8/24/77
Bats/Throws Right/Left
Team: Class A Sarasota Red Sox
Strengths: Brown's main asset is his speed. He stole 25 bases last year for Class A Augusta, and 15 in half as many at bats the year prior in the Rookie Gulf Coast League. Brown, the GCL Red Sox player of the year, is prospering in the stolen base category this year in Sarasota as well. Brown can hit for a decent average, and he generally leads his team in runs scored. Brown also plays excellent defense with good range, which is largely helped by his speed.
Weaknesses: Brown can't hit for power, as it appears that his good power year in '98 was a mere fluke. He isn't a big name, so he won't attract much if the Red Sox decide to trade him, unless he has a breakthrough season.
Overall: Brown, a '98 36th round draft pick, has some tools. If he can learn to use the tools, and hit for a higher average, he could some day be a big league player. Brown will likely be in Double A Trenton next season. |
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 225 lbs
Position: First Base
Born: 1/29/72
Bats/Throws Both/Left
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Morgan Burkhart was a legend in the Frontier League. He set records in the league with a .404 batting average along with 36 home runs and 98 RBIs. He was named the MVP of this year's Mexican Winter League. He is a strong hitter from the left side of the plate. He is a very strong hitter, who has the knowledge to choke up on the bat with two strikes. Burkhart has had recent success in the big leagues, and has a good attitude when he's at the ballpark.
Weaknesses: Burkhart is 28 years-old, so he is just entering his prime. He is a career minor-leaguer, so he will have to make up for lost time. He is a slightly below average hitter, so he will see most of his action at DH, although he has played first base and outfield in the past.
Overall: Burkhart will ultimately wind up in Boston by September, when the Red Sox can expand their roster. He has options, so the Red Sox were able to send Burkhart back to Pawtucket from Boston a couple of times without the risk of losing him on waivers. Once Burkhart sees some more major-league pitching, he should be able to start for a handful of years in the big leagues. |
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 186 lbs
Position: Outfielder
Born: 5/6/75
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Jim Chamblee has proved he can provide offense at every level he has played at. Chamblee is on pace for his fourth straight 17-plus home run season, and he was a Triple A All-Star last year. Chamblee, a former second baseman, has made the shift to the outfield quite smoothly. He was moved to the outfield from second base this season because of his 6'4" frame, and he is making textbook plays for the PawSox this year. Chamblee is also quite community-minded, donating his time to youngsters and those in need.
Weaknesses: This is the interesting part. For whatever reason, Chamblee has been passed over numerous times by scouts, even Red Sox scouts. Chamblee has no major-league experience, even though he is a power-hitting right-handed hitter, which is exactly what the Red Sox need. Chamblee doesn't hit for a very high average, but his career minor league average is decent at around .274.
Overall: Chamblee is getting to the end of his minor league career. Chamblee may be a September call-up for the Red Sox this season. If he isn't, he may be seeing his last days in the Red Sox organization, as the time is now for Chamblee to break into the majors. |
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 220 lbs
Position: Pitcher
Born: 8/16/75
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Jin Ho Cho is a big, physical pitcher. His command is good, and he has the durability to throw complete games in the big leagues. Cho is aggressive, and he has a live arm. He throws a good fastball, changeup and slider, and he uses all pitches on both sides of the plate effectively. He has a very good strikeout-to-walk ratio.
Weaknesses: Injuries have caused setbacks for Cho, who will turn 25 years-old this year. Cho still needs to learn how to be more consistent at the major-league level and hold runners on base when they reach.
Overall: Cho can be an effective starter in the majors. Cho needs a break, as Tomo Ohka, Sunny Kim and Paxton Crawford have both surpassed him in the Pawtucket rotation. Cho is considered by the Red Sox to currently by in rehab, and if Cho gets back on track and puts up numbers like he did in 1998, he will soon enough be back in the big leagues. |
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 200 lbs
Position: Center field
Born: 8/16/75
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Michael Coleman was named an International League All-Star last year when he posted a team-leading 30 home runs. Coleman is an above-average runner with some strength
Weaknesses: Coleman has been known for his big ego and bad attitude. Though some believed that new PawSox manager Gary Jones would change Coleman, Coleman openly expressed biterness toward Red Sox general manager Dan Duquette when he sent him back to Pawtucket after spring training this season. Coleman has never hit for a high average, and strikes out way too much. When called up to Boston, he hasn't fared well. His good numbers last year were probably inflated because he already had a season and a half experience in Triple A prior to the season's opener. After sustaining a season-ending injury this season, Coleman's stock dropped even faster.
Overall: Once thought of as one of the organization's better prospects, the Red Sox have neglected Coleman. Had Coleman not ended his season with an injury, the Red Sox likely would have tried to trade him. If teams are still interested in Coleman in the offseason, the Red Sox will likely try to trade him then.
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Height: 6'3"
Weight: 205 lbs
Position: Pitcher
Born: 8/4/77
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Paxton Crawford has progressed steadily through the Red Sox farm system, and was impressive in two big-league starts in Boston. Since joining the organization after being drafted in the ninth round, Crawford has kept his walk totals down and consistently allowed fewer than one hit per inning. Though his numbers haven't been as astounding as those of Tomokazu Ohka, Sunny Kim, Juan Pena, Jin Ho Cho and other Red Sox pitching prospects, Crawford is probably just as good. Crawford isn't an overpowering pitcher, however his large frame helps his presence on the mound. Crawford can strike out batters when on his game, and opponents typically hit for a low average against him. Crawford has great composure and understands how to pitch. Crawford also keeps his home run totals down.
Weaknesses: Crawford can't overpower anyone with his fastball, although the pitch does have some movement on it. None of his pitches seem overwhelming, however Crawford understands how to use his pitches, even when he doesn't have his best stuff.
Overall: Crawford should almost certainly be in the Boston starting rotation by 2001, if not sooner. Crawford has been groomed well for the big leagues, and may even make some more starts for Boston down the stretch in 2000.
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Height: 6'2"
Weight: 228 lbs
Position: First Baseman
Born: 2/19/76
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Double A Trenton / Triple A Pawtucket
Strengths: Juan Diaz is a great power-hitting prospect. The Red Sox signed the Cuban native March 4, 2000 after his contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers was voided by the Comissioner's Office last season because the Dodgers had signed him as a Dominican citizen, which is illegal. In '98, Diaz hit 30 home runs and in '97 he smashed 25 dingers. He is a definete prospect who has the potential to hit over .300 with 25+ home runs in a season.
Weaknesses: A season-ending injury after a successful call-up to Pawtucket will hurt Diaz's growth process. At 24 years-old, he will have to make strides of progress in 2001 like he did in 2000.
Overall: Diaz likely would have been called up to Boston this year, possibly even before September when teams can expand their rosters. Diaz's injury will set him back, however he is still a legitimate prospect who should get a chance in Boston some time in 2001. |
Height: 6'3"
Weight: NA lbs
Position: Pitcher
Born: 11/99/77
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Double A Trenton Thunder
Strengths: Justin Duchscherer is one of the more unheralded prospects in the Red Sox organizations. Perhaps the media is just afraid to type his name repeatedly, but Duchscherer [pronounced DOOCH-ER] doesn't get as much attention as some of the better Red Sox pitching prospects. He has an assortment of cut fastballs, swooping curves, and a good changeup. Opponents hit for a low average against him, and his strikeout-to-walk ratio is very good. Duchscherer is a durable pitcher with above-average command.
Weaknesses: Duchscherer has been somewhat inconsistent in his time in the organization. He hasn't shown consistently that he can be a winner, however he has been on a couple of bad teams the past couple of years. He spent four years combined (starting in '96) in Rookie and Class A ball, however he was drafted out of high school.
Overall: He is doing well in Trenton this season (see ERA, not W-L record). He is still young, and could join the PawSox rotation next season if he keeps his ERA below 4.00 this season. Duchscherer could quietly make himself a quality major-league pitcher. Duchscherer is a definite prospect that could crack the rotation in Boston once he gets some more consistency. |
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 180 lbs
Position: Pitcher
Born: NA -- 18 years-old
Bats/Throws Left/Left
Team: Gulf Coast Rookie League Red Sox
Strengths: The Red Sox took Phil Dumatrait with their first overall pick in the 2000 draft. Drafted as a freshman from Bakersville Junior College in California, Dumatrait gained 10-12 MPH on his fastball last season. Dumatrait's fastball now sails around 94 MPH. He has two breaking balls, one of which has an extra bite before it reaches the plate. He has been compared to Tom Glavine, the Billerica, MA native and 200-game winner for the Atlanta Braves. Dumatrait is durable, with nine-inning potential. The fact that he throws the baseball with his left hand will also help him on his track to the majors.
Weaknesses: It is kind of a mystery as to how Dumatrait gained such velocity on his fastball. It could drop off, however that doesn't seem too likely. He has barely played any professional baseball, so to decide his future at this point would be ridiculous. Dumatrait went undrafted a year ago, so he is a risk as a first-round pick.
Overall: If Dumatrait proves that his added velocity an successful season last year were no flukes, he could become a successful major leaguer. However, he is too young and has yet to play professionally, so he'll take some time to judge. |
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 165 lbs
Position: Second Base
Born: 1/20/75
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: David Eckstein hustles almost more than anyone else in the Red Sox organization; perhaps only Carl Everett and Trot Nixon hustle more. Though commonly overlooked, Eckstein is the prototypical leadoff hitter. He gets on base, steals bases (45 for Class A Sarasota in '98), walks a lot, and is an intelligent player, sort of in the mold of Houston's Craig Biggio. Eckstein is a sure-handed fielder with strong fundamentals, at the plate, in the field and on the basepaths. Eckstein has a great, team-first attitude, much like that of Trot Nixon.
Weaknesses: Eckstein can't hit for power, however that's not usually a second baseman's job. He is 25, so Eckstein will need to be called up by the Red Sox next year if he wants a shot to prove himself.
Overall: Eckstein will be with Boston by 2001. Fans in Boston will grow to love this walk-on player from the University of Florida, who says he hasn't done his job if his uniform isn't dirty by the end of the game.
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Height: 6'1"
Weight: 198 lbs
Position: Outfielder
Born: 8/12/77
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Class A Augusta Greenjackets
Strengths: Lew Ford mixes tremendous speed and power to form a solid prospect. Ford is a superb base stealer. In Augusta this season, as of August 6, he has stolen 45 bases and been caught only three times. Ford can hit for average with some power, and has a knack for hitting doubles and triples. He is a good fielder in the outfield and will probably be named the Greenjackets Player of the Year.
Weaknesses: The Red Sox drafted Ford in '99 out of Dallas Baptist University, so Ford is already 23 years-old. He is a little old to be where he is, however his numbers are no fluke. His home run totals will probably drop once he gets to a higher level.
Overall: It is a little bit of a mystery why Ford hasn't been called up to Double A Trenton yet. He is a superb player, however he needs to prove he isn't a fluke next year in Trenton, and possibly work his way up to a midseason promotion to Pawtucket. |
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 160 lbs
Position: Outfielder
Born: 1/6/78
Bats/Throws Left/Left
Team: Class A Augusta Greenjackets
Strengths: Fossum is a gutsy player who could progress through the Red Sox system quicker than most, since the Sox drafted him out of college at Texas A&M. He led the Aggies to the College World Series last summer, while setting career and single-season strikeout records along the way. Fossum has had a lot of success in terms of winning at all levels. Fossum pitches with confidence. His best pitch is his slider. His fastball sails in at about 91 MPH with some movement on it. Fossum is one of the more polished pitchers from the '99 draft, and he has showed it by not walking too many batters.
Weaknesses: Fossum isn't very big, which raises questions about his durability and whether he can start in the big leagues. Some believe he may have already hit his ceiling, although there are still things that Fossum can work on to improve his game.
Overall: Fossum should be able to cruise through the Red Sox farm system fairly quickly, and he will probably begin the 2001 season with the Double A Trenton Thunder. Some see Fossum as a starter, however a more likely scenario has Fossum as a good left-handed reliever who will make the occasional start when needed. If another team wanted Fossum, the Red Sox would certainly be willing to entertain offers from other clubs.
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Height: 6'3"
Weight: 170 lbs
Position: Outfielder
Born: 10/18/80
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Class A Lowell Spinners
Strengths: The Red Sox like Julio Guerrero's potential as a power hitter. Gurrero is a smart player with good tools and instincts. He has a lot of potential, and there was a great deal of competition among teams looking to sign him out of the Dominican Republic in January, 1998. Guerrero is also the younger brother of Wilton and Vladimir Guerrero, so baseball is certainly in his blood.
Weaknesses: In his short time in professional baseball, Guerrero hasn't been very impressive. He is putting up a little bit better than average numbers in Lowell this season, and his numbers last season were below average.
Overall: Guerrero, a former shortstop turned outfielder, could become a very good player some day. He has potential, but he is too young (the Red Sox signed him a couple of years ago at age 17) to tell if he will some day become an effective major leaguer.
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Height: 6'3"
Weight: 187 lbs
Position: Pitcher
Born: 8/27/75
Bats/Throws Left/Left
Team: Double A Trenton Thunder
Strengths: Hazlett has excellent control. He is built and pitches kind of like Jamie Moyer, although he probably will never be as good as Moyer. Hazlett locates all of his pitches nicely and mixes up his pitches effectively.
Weaknesses: Since he was drafted out of college, Hazlett will have to make up for lost time. He is probably a little too old to be pitching in Double A, although he probably would be pitching in Triple A Pawtucket if the PawSox' rotation weren't so overcrowded. His fastball isn't overpowering, as it probably travels at around 88 MPH. His fastball probably will prevent him from becoming a full-time major league starter.
Overall: Even if Hazlett doesn't become a big-league starter, he could probably become an excellent reliever. Being left-handed will help him, and he could turn out to be a lot like Rheal Cormier, the successful starter-turned-reliever with the Boston Red Sox.
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Height: 6'1"
Weight: 200 lbs
Position: First Base/Catcher
Born: 7/27/75
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Double A Trenton Thunder
Strengths: Shea Hillenbrand is very versatile. Hillenbrand was a standout soccer and baseball player in high school. He played shortstop in high school, became a corner infielder after signing, then began a conversion to catcher in 1998. Hillenbrand was moved to first base because the Sox have Steve Lomasney ahead of him on the depth charts at catcher. Hillenbrand could be in Triple A right now if the PawSox weren't so packed with first basemen. A disciplined hitter, Hillenbrand rarely strikes out (uncommon for a first baseman) and generally puts the ball in play. Hillenbrand can hit for average and some solid power with the knack for driving in runs. Hillenbrand, the 1993 High School Player of the Year, also has above-average speed for a first baseman.
Weaknesses: Hillenbrand was limited to 69 games last year after suffering a season-ending knee injury last July 4 with Trenton. His injury really hurt him last year, as he probably could have made the jump to Triple A this season or last season. With guys like Dernell Stenson, Juan Diaz, Morgan Burkhart, Rico Brogna, Brian Daubach and Jose Offerman ahead of him on the first base depth chart, and Steve Lomasney, Jason Varitek and Scott Hatteberg ahead of him on the catcher depth chart, it may take Hillenbrand a little too long to reach the big leagues.
Overall: As stated above, Hillenbrand is in a tough situation. He is a very good player, however there are a lot of people in front of him. For whatever reason -- perhaps last season's injury -- he hasn't attracted too much attention in trade proposals, so Hillenbrand's first big-league stop will probably be in Boston. |
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 180 lbs
Position: Pitcher
Born: 9/4/77
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Sunny Kim is a hard-thrower whose fastball has touched 95 MPH. Kim, 22, has the ability to get himself out of jams by getting a strike out. Kim throws a two-seam fastball, a changeup, a slider and a curveball, however he may have to focus less on either his slider or curveball to be effective at the next level. His control is pretty good and his size is as well. Though he came to America from Korea in 1997, Kim has quickly adapted to this country's culture.
Weaknesses: When Kim pitches up in the zone -- even with his two-seam fastball -- opposing batters hit home runs. Though Kim can get himself out of jams, he needs to pitch lower in the strike zone so that he doesn't give up so many dingers.
Overall: Kim is considered by many to be the organization's top pitching prospect. He should be competing for a starting spot in Boston by 2001 and make a nice Rookie of the Year campaign along the way.
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Height: 5'10"
Weight: 169 lbs
Position: Outfielder
Born: 8/31/79
Bats/Throws Both/Right
Team: Class A Sarasota Red Sox
Strengths: Carlos Leon's ability to switch-hit will certainly help him when he reaches higher levels of baseball. Leon hits for good average and has above average speed. He is still just 20 years-old, so he is already ahead of the game. Leon doesn't strike out much, and he appears to just be seeing the ball much better this year. Leon has good range and the ability to turn the spectacular play.
Weaknesses: Leon is a potentially excellent fielder, however right now, the Venezuelan second baseman is erratic in the field. Leon doesn't hit for any power, and he needs to learn how to steal bases better and utilize his pretty-good speed.
Overall: At just 20 years-old, Leon is ahead of the game. He should move up to Double A Trenton next year and will likely be named Sarasota's Player of the Year this season. |
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 195 lbs
Position: Catcher
Born: 8/29/77
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Double A Trenton Thunder
Strengths: Steve Lomasney is one of the more athletic players in the Red Sox farm system, despite being a catcher. A decorated football and baseball star for Peabody High School in Massachusetts, Lomasney boasts excellent skills at the plate and in the field. Lomasney has the potential to hit for power and a decent average in the big leagues. He is very aggressive and is a tough competitor. He is superb defensively, with the ability to throw out runners and block the plate on collisions at home. His strength and great size will allow him to be a durable catcher in the majors. Lomasney has pretty good speed for a catcher as well.
Weaknesses: Lomasney doesn't hit for a very high average. The highest Lomasney has ever hit in professional baseball was .275, back in '97 with Class A Michigan. Though he is strong defensively, he still needs to learn how to call games behind the plate a little better, although that comes with the growing pains of being a young, highly-depended upon minor league catcher. He still needs to work on handling breaking pitches if he wantrs to hit for a higher average.
Overall: Lomasney leadfrogged over Shea Hillenbrand and Damian Sapp to get himself recognized as the organization's top prospect. Lomasney is now considered by many to be one of the better catching prospects in the nation, and should be ready for the big leagues by the end of the 2001 season, or perhaps by the 2002 season. However, with Jason Varitek and Scott Hatteberg in Boston, Lomasney may find himself in the midst of a blockbuster deal, sending him to another team.
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Height: 6'2"
Weight: 178 lbs
Position: Outfielder
Born: 11/30/78
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Class A Sarasota Red Sox
Strengths: Angel Mendoza is an all-around solid prospect. Mendoza hits for average with some power and the ability to steal some bases. He plays good defense. Mendoza can also drive in runs effectively, even though he isn't considered to be a tremendous home run hitter. Mendoza also has hit a large amount of doubles at every level he's been.
Weaknesses: Mendoza needs to work on laying off bad pitches before he goes anywhere. His walk-to-strikeout ratio is terrible, as he strikes out about four or five times as much as he walks. He is a little too old for Class A baseball, and his average season this year in Sarasota isn't going to help him.
Overall: If Mendoza can pick up the pace, he could progress next season. He has the tools to advance, however the key for him will be learning how to lay off bad pitches, as is the case with many Dominicans (see Wilton Veras). |
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 179 lbs
Position: Pitcher
Born: 3/18/76
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Tomo Ohka has been a winner in the minor leagues his entire career. Ohka was a perfect 7-0 with a 1.58 ERA in 12 starts for the Pawtucket Red Sox last season after going 8-0 for the Double Trenton Thunder. The Japanese product finished a combined 15-0 with a 2.31 ERA in the minors last season. Ohka's fastball goes around 92 MPH with some decent movement on it. Ohka isn't a power pitcher, preffering to rely on his control. Ohka doesn't throw too many pitches, and he even threw a perfect game earlier this season for the PawSox. His ability to keep his pitch count low as enabled him to go long innings in games.
Weaknesses: Ohka may be a 4-A pitcher; someone who is excellent in Triple A, but can't cut it in the big leagues. Asian pitchers haven't had a tremendous amount of success in the majors, and Ohka hasn't been any different. In four starts in Boston, Ohka is 1-3 with a 6.50 ERA. His changeup is average, and he must challenge big league hitters the way he did minor league hitters to be successful in the big leagues.
Overall: Ohka has been flirting with the Boston rotation this year, and probably will get some more starts for the Red Sox later in the year. Unless he's traded in the offseason -- which is a very plausible situation -- Ohka will be allowed a shot to challenge for a spot in the Boston rotation in 2001.
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Height: 6'5"
Weight: 215 lbs
Position: Pitcher
Born: 6/27/77
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Juan Pena is one of the Red Sox most impressive young pitchers. Pena has shot through the system since '97, making his major league debut last year at age 21. Pena has good composure on the mound and uses all regions of the plate. His best pitch is his curveball, and he uses it very effectively. He locates his fastball, which goes around 91 MPG, very well and does the same with his changeup. Pena threw a no-hitter in '98 for the PawSox.
Weaknesses: Pena has had too many trips to the disabled list. If he can stay healthy, he can be an effective pitcher. However, injuries have plagued Pena and have cost him multiple opportunities to get called up to Boston. Though he does locate his changeup well, he needs to make it slower, as it right now looks too much like his fastball.
Overall: Pena probably would have been in Boston's starting rotation had he not suffered a season-ending injury in spring training. In 2001, if he's healthy, he will be competing for a starting job in Boston. If he still has some setbacks in his rehab, he will probably start 2001 in Pawtucket.
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Height: 6'5"
Weight: 214 lbs
Position: Pitcher
Born: 12/31/77
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Double A Trenton Thunder
Strengths: Chris Reitsma's 6'5" frame and 214-pound body will help his durability, allowing him to go deep into games. Opponents don't hit for a high average against Reitsma, a first-round compensation pick when the Red Sox lost Erik Hanson. His live arm creates a very good fastball. His command is another one of his strengths. A native of Calgary, Canada, Reitsma has had success at almost every level he's been at in professional baseball since the Red Sox drafted him out of high school in 1996. In four seasons of minor league baseball, Reitsma has only had an ERA above 2.90 once, and that was last year. Reitsma is having success this year in Trenton, and has definetely worked his way back into prospect form.
Weaknesses: Reitsma suffered a broken right elbow in '97. Because he was not added to the Red Sox' 40-man roster in 1999, he was available in the Rule V draft, and the Tampa Bay Devil Rays took him. However, the Red Sox eventually retained Reitsma. Reitsma's offspeed pitches need some fine tuning.
Overall: If Reitsma, who is having an excellent year in Trenton, can keep his numbers the rest of the year, he will likely be promoted to Triple A Pawtucket next season. Reitsma still needs to work on his out pitches, as he won't be able to beat major-league hitters exclusively with his fastball. |
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 175 lbs
Position: SS/CF/2B
Born: 6/23/75
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Donnie Sadler has track-star speed. Sadler, who stole 41 bases for Class A Michigan in 1995, is one of the fastest men the Red Sox have ever brought up through their farm system. Sadler is also a sure-handed fielder. He gobbles up ground balls at shortstop and is versatile, as he has also played center field and second base for Pawtucket and Boston. Sadler often gets to balls that other fielders couldn't because of his raw speed.
Weaknesses: Despite Sadler's incredible speed, he often tries to hit home runs. With his 5'6" frame, Sadler isn't built for power, so he often times hits lazy fly balls, instead of hitting the ball on the ground like he should be and using his speed to his advantage. Sadler also gets undisciplined at times at the plate, swinging at pitches out of the strike zone. A '94 draft pick, Sadler has been moving through the system much more slowly than other selections from that draft, including Nomar Garciparra and Carl Pavano.
Overall: Sadler will eventually be a solid major-league player. However, his status has droped dramatically since Baseball America rated him as the organization's number one prospect prior to hte '96 season. If Sadler ever learns to hit the ball on the ground with more consistency, he can be a good major leaguer.
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Height: 6'1"
Weight: 232 lbs
Position: First Base
Born: 6/17/78
Bats/Throws Left/Left
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Considered by many to be the Red Sox' top prospect, Stenson is certainly the most productive player for the Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox. Stenson, 22, was second last year for the PawSox in RBIs (82), third in walks (55), doubles (28) and fourth home runs (18), despite missing time with a broken finger. Stenson has a smooth swing and the ability to hit line drives to all fields. He is cutting down on his strikeouts and improving his defense at first base. He hit 24 home runs for the Double A Trenton Thunder in '98, and will look to put up 20+ home runs this season for the PawSox. Once Stenson sees a pitch the first time around in the order, he will 75% of the time get a hitt off the pitch the next time he sees it, a talent that some major-leagures still are trying to learn. Stenson is one of the best hitting prospects in baseball.
Weaknesses: Stenson isn't a fast runner, however that is expected from a first baseman. He also has a tendency to strike out too much, however that often comes with the territory of being a power hitter, and he is making a concious effort to cut down on his strikeouts this season. His defense has been widely criticized (34 errors last season), however last season was his first at first base, and his defense improved as the season progressed.
Overall: Stenson is still very young, however he is already the PawSox cleanup hitter. Stenson is one of the most productive hitters in the organization (Nomar Garciaparra and Trot Nixon previously held that title) and should be challenging for a starting spot in Boston by 2001.
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Height: 6'2"
Weight: 198 lbs
Position: Third Base
Born: 1/19/78
Bats/Throws Right/Right
Team: Triple A Pawtucket Red Sox
Strengths: Wilton Veras is one of the more productive hitters in the Red Sox' organization, along with teammate Dernell Stenson. Veras, 22, has showed flashes of brilliance, particularly during his 1999 stint in Boston, when he made the jump straight from Double A Trenton. Veras can hit for average with some power, and has a knack for driving in runners. Veras has pretty good speed for a third baseman and has a cannon for an arm.
Weaknesses: Veras is aggressive at the plate, but he is definetely too aggressive. He is a free swinger, often impatiently swinging at the first pitch he sees. This habit gets Veras in trouble a lot, and lowers his on base percentage dramatically because he rarely walks.
Overall: Veras is probably the Red Sox third baseman of the future. He is still very young and struggling a little bit in Pawtucket because he is trying to become a more patient hitter at the plate. Once he reaches his prime, Veras should be an established All-Star with 25+ homer, 110+ RBI and .325+ batting average potential. He should be ready to start at third base for Boston by 2001.
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Other Players of Note
Bryan Barnowski, C: A 42nd round pick in 1998, he is performing well for the Rookie Gulf Coast League Red Sox. Barnowski, 19, is hitting for a good average and is showing that he can hit the ball out of the park. If Tony Blanco weren't so good, he would probably be considered the GCL Red Sox' best player. He could be another catching prospect to add behind the depth chart of Jason Varitek, Scott Hatteberg, Steve Lomasney and formerly Shea Hillenbrand. He's a Granville, MA native, which is probably why he signed with the Sox, despite being a 42nd round draft pick.
Aaron Capista, SS: His status is slowly dropping because his batting average is dong likewise. Though he is only 21, he will likely spend 2001 in Double A Trenton, where he is spending the 2000 season. His switch-hitting ability should help his stock somewhat, however he is slipping on the depth charts.
Hector De Los Santos, 2B: A second baseman for the Class A Lowell Spinners, De Los Santos is hitting for a high average for the Spinners and getting extra base hits. He also has very good speed.
Chris Elmore, LHP: A 2000 draft pick with an excellent curveball. He is a good control-pitcher, who is a four-year graduate of the University of North Carolina. He is pitching with a sub-two ERA for the Class A Lowell Spinners this season.
Tony Derosso, 3B: Derosso is having a fine season for the Double A Trenton Thunder. He is 24 and was drafted in '94 (same year as Nomar Garciaparra), so he has to make up for many years in Class A baseball. Derosso could move up to Triple A Pawtucket next year, however he will have to have another strong season to be considered a potential major leaguer.
Tony Fontana, RHP: Taken by the Red Sox in the 7th round of the 2000 draft, despite being projected as possibly a 2nd round pick. He has a 94 MPH fastball, and he is excelling this year for the Class A Lowell Spinners. He has a low ERA, opponents are hitting for a low average against him, and he has a complete-game shutout. He also has good mound presence.
Jerome Gamble, RHP: Started 1999 great as his first season in pro ball, however he suffered a stress fracture in his throwing elbow, similar to the one Chris Reitsma endured. However, Gamble has bounced back and is pitching well as a starter in Class A Augusta.
Freddy Garcia, 3B: Garcia is 28 years-old. However, he is excelling in Triple A Pawtucket offensively this season. He is leading the PawSox in home runs and RBIs, and he may be a September call-up when the Boston Red Sox can expand their 25-man roster. However, don't think about putting Garcia in the field; he is Jose Canseco at third base.
Luis Garcia, 1B: Showing good power for Augusta, however that's typical from a first baseman. He has good speed, and will have to improve on his batting average, which currently is mediocre.
John Hattig, 3B: One of the better hitters on a Class A Lowell Spinners team whose offense is very weak. A switch-hitter, Hattig hits for good average and has a knack for driving in runs. He is making the transition from shortstop to third base, so some errors at third this season should be expected.
Rontrez Johnson, OF: His best asset is his speed. He is a good base stealer, however he is 23 years-old, which is a little too old for a .268 hitter in Double A Trenton. He is excellent defensively. If Johnson can improve his batting average quickly, he can save status as a borderline prospect.
Mauricio Lara, LHP: Undefeated in Venezuela last year, Lara has brought his success over to the States for the Lowell Spinners. Opponents are hitting for a low average against him, and his strikeout-to-walk ratio is excellent. He has durability as a starting pitcher, and his ERA has been consistently in the 1.50 to 1.70 range. Though he's a pitcher, he is also a switch-hitter.
Bryan Leach, RHP: Augusta is using him as its closer this season, and he is excelling. Looks a lot like recently-traded Red Sox prospect Jeff Taglienti. Doesn't allow many hits, great strikeout-to-walk ratio, and opponents hit for low average against him.
Yovanny Lopez, OF: Though he's struggling in his first season in the United States, Lopez, a Dominican native, has some tools and could turn into a formidable prospect after a couple of seasons in America.
Luis Peres, LHP: A good starter/reliever for the GCL Red Sox. He has a good strikeout-to-walk ratio and opponents hit below .200 against him.
Carlos Rodriguez, OF: A power-hitting prospect in Class A Augusta. A little too old to be where he is, but he's shown power and speed when put in the right situations.
Freddy Sanchez, SS: A 2000 draft pick who is having a good year with the Lowell Spinners. He hits for a nice average, and he tends to hit the ball in the gaps, accounting for his strong doubles and RBI totals. He has the best slugging percentage on the Spinners, despite being a shortstop.
Antron Seiber, OF A third round pick in '99, he got his feet wet with the wooden bat last year. He will bring the Gulf Coast Red Sox excellent speed. He is a superb base stealer who can run the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds. If he improves his batting average a little and keeps it around the .300 clip consistently in the minor leagues, he could some day develop into a more serious prospect.
Corey Spencer, LHP: Andover, MA native who is excelling in Augusta. A relief pitcher who would be the team's closer if Brian Leach weren't on the team. He is a strikeout artist who could be an effective left-handed reliever in the big leagues, or be involved in a trade package ala Greg Miller.
Chris Warren, OF: Has showed power, and is playing in Augusta. Has good speed, but will need to cut down on his vast strikeout totals and raise his mediocre batting average.
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