Ultimate Roster Project (PC,Xbox,PS2)

[Totte]

5/9/06 Designated LHP Jeff Fassero for assignment.

He retired after this right?

[Totte]

Nate McLouth starts in CF for the Pirates

Craig Wilson plays LF for the Pirates

I watched a game with them a couple of days ago when they had Bay in LF and Bautista in CF.

[beekay415]

the release date is the 30th correct right? if so will xbox rosters be avail. that night? i only as because im going away on the 1st and will have alota down time when im done and would like to start my chise then, will 7.0 for xbox be ready on the 30th too?

[Totte]

the release date is the 30th correct right? if so will xbox rosters be avail. that night? i only as because im going away on the 1st and will have alota down time when im done and would like to start my chise then, will 7.0 for xbox be ready on the 30th too?

As I said when I first announced the release date, PC versions will be available on June 30th and console versions in early July (because they need to be converted and you don't do that in like 2 seconds)

[JoeyMcM93]

Regardign Fassero. I think so...Not sure though. I'll look right now.

[herky]

Totte,

I will have a ton of Cubs suggestions to you by the end of the weekend. I get the AAA Iowa Cubs games here on TV and I'll be able to check out all equipment, stances, and pitching deliveries tonight while watching it.

These rosters are going to be damn good.

One question. Will 7.0 be included with the 2006 schedules for PS2? I know over ar operationsports.com they have 6.4 with them for PS2. Any plans for it on the new ones?

[cybernetic]

OK more minor league movement for Jays today:

OF Maikel Jova (AAA) released

RP Rodney Ormond (AAA) demoted to AA

C Jeff Urgelles (High A) demoted to A

[maxbjr]

maxbjr wrote:

Nate McLouth starts in CF for the Pirates

Craig Wilson plays LF for the Pirates

Totte wrote:

I watched a game with them a couple of days ago when they had Bay in LF and Bautista in CF.

I checked this on pirates.mbl.com , but concidering they have only 4 OFs until Jody Gerut comes off the 60 day dl or they bring up someone else, I can see the Pirates switching guys around game to game

(side note) Thanks to eveyone who wished me well on my gallbladder removeal. It went well, and now I'm back home with two weeks off untill it's all healed. Thanks again everyone.

[aaronuconn]

Yes, PS2 with 2006 sechdule.

[tejdog1]

Scouting reports on players the Mets drafted:

30. Kevin Mulvey, rhp

School: Villanova. Class: Jr.

Hometown: Parlin, N.J.

B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-1. Wt.: 170. Birthdate: 5/26/85.

Scouting Report: Mulvey, the top arm in the Northeast, could be a perfect fit for the Phillies, who have made an effort to target top local talent, such as Glen Mills, Pa., native Mike Costanzo-their top pick last year (second round) out of Coastal Carolina. Mulvey, who hails from Parlin, N.J., has been a weekend starter since he arrived at Villanova and has seen his stock rise this season even while posting rather pedestrian 3-7, 3.66 numbers. Scouts are impressed with his command of three average or better pitches: a 90-94 mph fastball, a slider that is effective against righthanded hitters and a curveball that some scouts like even better than the slider. He also has good feel for a changeup that can be used to get lefties out. Mulvey has loose, easy arm action and clean mechanics, and he has learned to eliminate distractions from umpires and defensive lapses behind him that tended to rattle him early in his college career. He always works around the zone and is not afraid to attack hitters. Mulvey doesn't figure to last past the Phillies at No. 37 overall and could go before that.

127. Joe Smith, rhp

School: Wright State. Class: Jr.

Hometown: Cincinnati

B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 205. Birthdate: 3/22/84.

Scouting Report: Smith is one of the more improbable success stories in college baseball. He had shoulder surgery as a high school senior in 2002 and couldn't crack the Wright State roster in his first year at college. When he made the team as a walk-on in 2004, he used a high three-quarters arm slot and pitched at 85-87 mph. After Rob Cooper took over as head coach before the 2005 season, new assistant coach Greg Lovelady suggested Smith drop down to a sidearm delivery. That usually adds movement and subtracts velocity, but Smith's fastball now sits at 88-91 mph and reaches 94. He also throws a nasty slider and his changeup has improved this spring as well. Hitters have trouble picking up his pitches, as evidenced by his regular-season 0.75 ERA--which would lead NCAA Division I if he weren't five innings short of qualifying. Smith could move quickly as a pro reliever. Because he's a redshirt junior, he'll become a draft-and-follow if he doesn't sign this summer.

187. Stephen Holmes, rhp

School: Rhode Island. Class: Jr.

Hometown: Lincoln, R.I.

B-T: R-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 205. Birthdate: 8/31/85.

Scouting Report: Holmes has gone 20-3 in his college career, giving him the URI record for career winning percentage (.870). That's the best way to describe Holmes: He's a winner. He doesn't dominate with his stuff, but he is a fierce competitor with the best feel for pitching of anyone in the Northeast this year, and he always works around the plate. He has a solid-average 88-92 mph fastball that he locates wherever he wants, and his out pitch is a curveball that can be inconsistent. It is not particularly tight and lacks depth, but he still uses it to induce plenty of ground balls and some strikeouts. He also has good feel for a changeup, but he hasn't used it nearly as much as his other two pitches. Holmes doesn't have much projection left, so his ceiling is a back-of-the-rotation starter, but he has a clean delivery and is polished enough that he could move fast.

[tejdog1]

Jacob Ruckle (RHP starter) St. Lucie Mets

6 foot 1, 180

Stamina 65

He's a control pitcher, although he can pop the fastball to 95, it sits between 90-92, with movement. Has a changeup in the mid 70s, curveball in the low 80s, and a splitter in the 78-82 range. Also has been toying around with a cutter which breaks in on lefties, that pitch is 85-87

[JoeyMcM93]

Welcome back maxbjr! Glad to hear it all went well man.

[Fastflink2009]

I didn't know they played baseball at villanova! Seems like it would be way to cold

[thr33niL]

Morrow sits 93-96 with his four-seam fastball that will reach 98-99 at times. He gets enough movement to work in the upper half as he moves the pitch across the strike zone.

Another report for the Mariners' 5ht overall pick, Brandon Morrow...

Link

Q: Morrow is the guy with the true, upper-90's fastball?

A: Yes. All the other guys except Lincecum, you'll hear they "touch" 96-99, then hear excuses that they are consistently at 91-95 with command and "reach back when they need it." (In the majors, when don't you need it?! Siggghhhhhh…)

Not Brandon Morrow. 97 is a normal fastball for him. 97 is normal for Morrow the way 92 is normal for Gil Meche. Morrow will throw the majority of his fastballs from 96 to 99; he'll hit 99 not once, but many times in a game. He has true Randy Johnson velocity.

[Totte]

One question. Will 7.0 be included with the 2006 schedules for PS2? I know over ar operationsports.com they have 6.4 with them for PS2. Any plans for it on the new ones?

Yes, PS2 with 2006 sechdule.

[Totte]

Totte,

I will have a ton of Cubs suggestions to you by the end of the weekend. I get the AAA Iowa Cubs games here on TV and I'll be able to check out all equipment, stances, and pitching deliveries tonight while watching it.

That's great! Send me all the stuff to my e-mail adress when you're done.

These rosters are going to be damn good.

They're going the be the best ever!

[Totte]

I checked this on pirates.mbl.com , but concidering they have only 4 OFs until Jody Gerut comes off the 60 day dl or they bring up someone else, I can see the Pirates switching guys around game to game

Cool, thanks

(side note) Thanks to eveyone who wished me well on my gallbladder removeal. It went well, and now I'm back home with two weeks off untill it's all healed. Thanks again everyone.

Glad to hear it all went well buddy. Get well soon :wink:

[Totte]

Thanks for the info tejdog1 and thr33niL

[Totte]

So I was backreading the thread for a couple of pages gatherng the information you guys put in and copied it to a Word-document for easier access. It all ended up at 22 pages! Great work guys :wtg:

EDIT: Considering what Emil just posted, I'm up to 27 pages.

[Emil]

Here's an update/scouting report on the Giants minor league players:

1. Matt Cain (RHP) DOB: 10-10-1984. 6'3", 230 lbs.

Can there be any doubt? It wasn't just that he led the PCL in K's. After all, he did give up a lot of HR's and BB's there. It wasn't just 2.33 ERA in 7 big league starts. He didn't have great peripheral numbers. It was more the way he went about his business, the bulldog personality, the commanding physical presence on the mound. It was finally seeing a kid who was supposed to have a mid 90's fastball finally actually have one! It was the improvement and growth that he appeared to show with each game he pitched. Welcome to the big leagues, kid. You have a bright, bright future. Let's all keep our fingers crossed that the injury bug doesn't bite. That's the only thing standing between young Mr. Cain and perennial All-Stardom. BTW. I have his autograph on a game ball from when he was with San Jose in 2004.

2. Kevin Frandsen (2B) B-R, T-R. 6'0", 175.

Had a meteoric rise through the system in 2005. Drafted in 2004, he hit pretty well in an injury shortened first season at S-K but gave no hint of the amazing year he would have in 2005. .341 BA in San Jose. .287 in Norwich. .351 in Fresno. He struggled early on in the AFL, but finished strong ending up with a .263 BA. I know folks are going to have a problem with putting him this high, but here's my reasoning: Middle infield is less competetive offensively than other positions. Given that, him probably starting at Fresno this year, and the end of Ray Durham's contract after this year, I think Frandsen has the best chance of any position prospect of landing a starting gig in the majors within the next two years. Are there players with more upside in the system? Probably, but they all have warts and play at more competetive positions, so I'll go with Frandsen at #2.

3. Dan Ortmeier (OF) B- S, T- L. DOB: 5-11-81. 6'4", 220.

.274/.360/.463 with 20 HR's, 35 SB's and 12 CS for AA Norwich. Not dominant numbers, but the Eastern League is the toughest league for hitters in all the minors. .385/.414/.654 with 4 SB's and 0 CS in 26 AB's for Mesa in the AFL. Is this a taste of what he'll do in the hitter friendly PCL West? His AFL campaign was cut short by wrist soreness and personal business. Neither should be a problem this season.

4. Craig Whitaker (RHP) DOB- 11-19-1984. 6'4", 180.

It's hard to believe that he's the same age as Matt Cain. That tells you something about Matt Cain right there. 3-4, 4.66, 58 IP, 72 K's!, 38 BB, 5 saves. Struggled as a starter early in the season. Settled down and pitched pretty well as a reliever in the second half. I rank him this hight based on upside. Started out much more raw than Cain, but otherwise has similar stuff, maybe a little better. I was influenced quite a bit by a recent write up in BA in which Tidrow says he's still a starter and should come quickly once he puts it all together. Look for a breakout year, but still has time even if he doesn't. Roger Craig Whitaker! Hummmbaaby!!

5. Fred Lewis (OF) 25 yo. B-L, T-R. DOB: 12-9-80. 6'2", 190.

.273/.361/.396 with 30 SB's and 13 CS. for AA Norwich. Again, not dominant numbers, but was well over .300/.400 after a slow first 2 months of the season. Has always had good OBP's even when his BA suffers. Poised for a big AAA season. League factors are a big consideration here too. That's what puts him ahead of the SJ crowd IMO.

6. Nate Schierholtz (OF) B-L, T-R. DOB: 02-15-1984. 6'2", 215.

.319/.363/.514. with 15 HR's, 8 triples and 37 doubles. Led the Cal League in OF assists with 15 after switch from 3B. Had a very good playoff run. Had he stayed at 3B, I would probably have ranked him #2, but looks like he can make it as an OF too. He puts up anything close to these #'s in CT next year and he will be #1.

7. Marcus Sanders (SS) B-R, T-R. DOB: 08-25-1985. 6'0", 160.

.300/.407/.400 with 57 SB's and 9 CS for Augusta in the Sally League. Great OBP! Great SB #'s! Great age! What's not to like? Well, he has a bum shoulder which calls into question whether he can stay at SS. A move to the OF would lessen my enthusiasm considerably. Otherwise he's a clear #2.

8. Sharon Martis (RHP). DOB 03-30-1987 6'1", 175 lbs.

2-1, 1.85, 34 IP, 50 K, 9 BB!! for AZL Giants. Mid 90's fastball with advanced secondary stuff and command. Barring injury, this kid is going to move up fast. Since we have a paucity of "sure thing" prospects, I see no reason not to get out in front of a kid with this upside.

9. Pablo Sandoval (3B) B-S, T-S!! DOB 08-11-1986. 5'11", 180 lbs???

.330/.383/.405 for S-K, in a league for older, college draftees. I was going to rank him #2 by a fair margin until I saw is picture in BA. There is no way he's anywhere close to 180 lbs. 220-230 might be a conservative estimate. I kind of wish he had stayed at catcher, but the Giants apparently love his bat and think it will develop better at 3B. Needs to stay away from the Cheeseburgers big time! Another oddity: He's fully ambidextrous. Throws right on the field, but his left arm is equally strong and reportedly a cannon.

10. Waldis Joaquin (RHP) DOB- 12-25-1986. 6'2", 190 lbs.

1-1, 3.64, 29.3 IP, 37 K, 10 BB for AZL Giants. The other teenage phenom pitcher. He may have more upside than Martis, but is less developed. Got everyone's attention late in the short season with 8 K's in 3 IP, an outing where he reportedly hit 98 MPH on the radar gun at least 8 times. He may be raw, but 10 BB's in 30 IP ain't at all bad for an 18 yo kid with a 98 MPH heater!

11. Travis Ishikawa (1B) B-L, T-L. DOB: 09-24-1983. 6'3", 190.

.282/.387/.532 with 22 HR's for San Jose. Finally started to show why scouting reports have always been good on him. Showed good power in a difficult park for LH power hitters. Good OBP-BA differential. His relatively low BA in a hitter's league gives me pause. I want to see what he does in the Eastern leaugue before I put him in my top 10.

12.Merkin Valdez (RHP) DOB: 11-10-1981. 6'5", 210.

5-6, 3.53, 107 IP, 96 K's, 45 BB's. This is another one folks may have an issue with. Falls this far on my list due to two weak finishes in a row. Not only that, but IMO his numbers before the elbow started hurting were disappointing for a strong pitcher's league. Notice also that he isn't exactly young anymore. Still seems to have great tools. Lets hope his work in

Instructional League will pay dividends and hope for good health. A strong AAA campaign will shoot him back up the list and could conceivably put him in the majors by the end of the season.

13. Eddy Martinez-Esteve (OF?) B-R, T-R(if you can call what he does with his right arm throwing). DOB 07-14-1983. 6'2", 215.

.313/.427/.524. Another controversial placement. Eddy may be the best pure hitter in the organization, possibly in all of the minor leagues. So, what's the rap? He's a terrible, terrible fielder. Zero arm strength could improve a year removed from shoulder surgery, but he has way more issues than that. Weight, conditioning and motivation are also concerns. Still, it's great to have prospect this good this far down the list.

14. Brian Wilson (RHP) DOB: 03-16-1982. 6'1", 205.

5-1, 0.82, 33 IP, 30 K, 7 BB for low A Augusta. 0-0, 0.57, 15.2 IP, 22 K, 5 BB for AA Norwich. 1-1, 3.97, 13 K, 8 BB for AAA Fresno. 1-3, 6.11, 17.2 IP, 15 K, 12 BB. for Mesa, AFL. Apparently fully recovered from pre-draft TJ, Wilson is showing why he probably would have been a first rounder without the injury. Reportedly was hitting 98 MPH on the gun during the season. I'll chalk up his poor AFL to fatigue and working on secondary pitches. If he pitches well for Fresno, he should be the #1 option if help is needed in the bullpen. Given how Felipe manages, that is a fairly good bet.

15. Jonathan Sanchez (LHP) DOB: 11-19-1982. 6'2", 165.

5-7, 4.08, 125.2 IP, 166 K's!!, 39 BB. Eye popping secondary numbers, but I'm concerned by that ERA in a pitcher's league. His age gives me pause too. IMO, BA ranked him too high. Still, nice to have a kid this good all the way down at #15.

16. Kelyn Acosta (RHP) DOB: 04-24-1985. 6'1", 170.

0-1, 1.42, 12.2 IP, 6 K, 3 BB, 5 saves for Augusta after returning from TJ late in the year. A burly young RHP, Acosta reportedly had a high 90's fastball before the injury. I am absolutely euphoric that he pitched this well from the get go coming off rehab. I hope they let him start again, but he could be a good prospect as a reliever too. I'm looking for a breakout year.

17. Ben Copeland (OF) B-L, T-L, DOB: 12-17-1983. 6'1", 195.

.333/.388./.517 in 60 AB's for AZL Giants. .306/.364/.512 in 120 AB's for S-K. Ranks ahead of Clay Timpner because he's showing more power early on. He'll have to move fast at his age, though.

18. Dan Griffin (RHP) DOB: 09-29-1984, 6'7"! 225 lbs.

0-0, 0.75, 12 IP, 20 K, 6 BB for AZL Giants. 3-2, 2.39, 37.2, 49 K, 12 BB. I don't know how hard he throws. At his size, does it matter? Gotta love the command from a kid this big, this early.

19. Bill Sadler (RHP) DOB: 09-21-1981.

6-5, 3.31, 84.1 IP, 81 K, 33 BB. I love the way he's being developed. Generally pitches more than 1 inning at a time in setup roles. Command got much better as the season progressed. The Giants gave me a scare when they didn't protect him for the Rule 5 draft. Why anyone would take Mitch Wylie over Sadler is beyond me, but we're the lucky ones on that score. Sadler has a mid 90's fastball and could be a closer some day. This is the way I think the Giants should have handled Dave Aardsma. Can't wait to see what Sadler does with Fresno.

20. Mark Minicozzi (2B) B-R, T-R. DOB- 02-11-1983.

.321/ .411/.428 for S-K. Again, position plays a role here. Put up significantly better numbers at S-K than Frandsen did in 2004. Gotta love the OBP.

21. Justin Hedrick (RHP) DOB: 06-08-1982. 6'3", 225 lbs.

3-4, 3.55, 58.1 IP, 75 K's! 23 BB. A shade on the old side, but just his first full pro season. Had some ups and downs, but appeared to be dominant at times. It was probably a mistake to try to put him in a closer role at the start of the season. I personally favor the Bill Sadler track for young relief pitchers. Finished with one of the best K/IP ratios in the organization and a pretty darn good K/BB. Should move up to Norwich.

22. Clay Timpner (OF) B-L, T-L. DOB: 05-13-1983.

.291/.334/.397 with 4 HR's, 12 triples, 34 SB's and 13 CS. May be the best defensive OF in the organization. Offensively, he may be a tweener. Not enough OBP to lead off, not enough power to hit farther down the order.

23. Justin Knoedler © B-R, T-R. DOB: 07-17-1980.

I had to put him somewhere. Why not here? I'm a lot less excited about Knoedler now than I was last year. Has a cannon for an arm, but wasn't that great in other aspects of defense. Looked lost in a handful of major league AB's. hit just .226 in a very hitter friendly AFL. Somehow, I feel this ranking is way too high, but with the state of our catching, he's as good a bet as anyone to be our backup to Matheny, if not this year, then maybe 2007.

24. Jon Coutlangus (LHP) DOB: 10-21-1980.

4-0, 3.04, 77 IP, 79 K, 29 BB for San Jose. A converted OF. After a slow start, he was virtually untouchable in the second half. Age is less of a factor due to lack of wear and tear on his arm. Could move up fast.

25. John Bowker (OF) B-L, T-L. DOB: 07-05-1983.

.267/.319/.414 with 13 HR's for San Jose. He wouldn't be on the list at all save for a strong second half after floundering below the Mendoza Line for most of the first half. Could break out in 2006.

26. Michael Mooney (OF) B-R, T-R. DOB: 06-08-1983.

.342/.389/.516 for S-K. Had a great short season at S-K. The problem is he's been around for what seems like forever and he's still in short season? Reportedly has been held back by emotional issues which he seems to have put behind him. We'll see. Reportedly has a cannon for an arm.

27. Chris Begg (RHP) DOB: 09-12-1979. 6'4", 195 lbs.

8-7, 3.07, 138 IP, 86 K, 23 BB! Signed as an undrafted FA, Begg has worked on is game as hard as anyone in the organization. He's pitched wherever and whenever he's had the opporunity. International competition for Team Canada, AFL, Winter Ball. Uses a sinker and great control to full advantage. Lights out in Winter ball this year. Let's see what he can do in the PCL which is not kind to sinkerballers.

28. Garrett Broshuis (RHP) DOB: 12-18-1981.

12-9, 4.40, 151.1 IP, 124 K, 35 BB for San Jose. 0-1, 5.35, in 12 IP with Fresno. A slightly younger version of Chris Begg. He's reputed to be a highly intelligent pitchers who will get the most out of limited tools.

29. Ben Nieto (LHP) DOB- 04-04-1984. 5'11", 225 lbs.

2-2, 1.26, 28.2 IP, 38 K, 6 BB for AZL Giants. 3-0, 1.05, 25.2 IP, 23 K, 7 BB for S-K. Don't know much about him. John Manuel said he could get up to 90-91 MPH in the BA chat. An intriguing prospect out of Riverside CC in my neck of the woods. I have a friend who pitches for Chaffey College who says Riverside has a real good program.

30. Brian Anderson (RHP) DOB: 05-25-1983, 6'3", 210 lbs.

3-1, 1.95, 27.2 IP, 42 K!, 3 BB!! 19 saves. BA named him the 2005 Giants draftee closest to the majors. Closers in the low minors usually don't project well, but gotta love those numbers!

31. Nick Pereira (RHP) DOB- 09-22-1982. 6'0" 190 lbs.

5-3, 3.04, 50.1 IP, 41 K, 14 BB for S-K. Yet another young draftee with excellent control numbers.

32. Ariel Nunez (OF) B-R, T-R. DOB: 08-03-1985. 6'3", 190 lbs.

.367/.457/.447 with 28 SB's and 6 CS for AZL Giants. I don't know why but I have a suspicion that I'm selling this kid short. One obvious weakness is lack of power. He has the size to develop it and John Manuel mentioned power potenitial in the BA chat. He could be ranked a whole lot higher on next year's list.

33. Jesus Reina (LHP) DOB: 04-20-1984.

2-4, 5.16, 68 IP, 72 K, 42 BB. Some may rank him higher than this. I am frankly skeptical due to apparent stamina issues and a very high walk rate.

34. Sharlon Shoop (SS) B-R, T-R. DOB: 04-15-1987! 6'0", 160 lbs.

.254/.328/.296 with 10 SB, 4 CS. Grew up with Sharon Martis on Curacao. BA calls hiim the best defensive SS in the organization outside of Omar Vizquel. Brought his BA up from below the Mendoza line in the second half of a short season. The obvious concern is offense but he has time to develop that. Should have good size when he fills out.

It's stupendous to have a prospect of this quality this far down the list!!

35. Erick Threets (LHP) DOB: 11-04-1981. 6'5", 240 lbs.

1-2, 5.06, 42.2 IP, 35 K, 31 BB. Not exactly young, but amazing he's not older considering how long he's been kicking around. I don't know what his velocity was last season. His K totals would suggest it wasn't 100 MPH. The most encouraging thing about his numbers is that he kept his walk rate below 1/IP. He'll be an extra year removed from shoulder surgery in 2006. It should be a make or break year.

36. Phil Lussier (RHP) DOB: 11-07-1985. 6'2", 220 lbs.

1-1, 3.05, 38.1 IP, 32 K, 6 BB! for AZL GIants. A burly young kid with great control numbers.

37. Dave McKae (RHP) 11-24-1981. 6'2", 180 lbs.

3-2, 2.42, 67 IP, 83 K, 17 BB. I don't like his age/level, but those numbers deserve some kind of notice. We'll see.

38. Brian Horwitz (OF) B-R, T-R. DOB- 11-07-1983. 6'1", 180 lbs.

.349/415/.460 for Augusta. I believe he was the MVP of the Championship series after a callup to San Jose. Has won two consecutive batting titles after an identical BA with S-K in 2004. He's got doubles power, but hasn't hit mahy HR"s. That could be a problem for a corner OF. Still, he may be the best pure hitter in the organization.

39. William Thompson (1B) B-L, T-L. DOB: 11-20-1982. 6'1", 180 lbs.

.384/ .452/.492 for S-K. Thompson is a lefthanded twin of Brian Horwitz. Could rival Brian for title of best hitter in the organization. The big problem is obviously the lack of power for a first baseman. HIs season was cut short by a fracture of the foot or ankle which is expected to be fully healed by ST.

40. Patrick Misch (LHP) DOB: 08-18-1981. 6'2", 195 lbs.

3-9, 6.35, 102 IP, 69 K, 40 BB for Fresno. 4-2, 3.52, 61.1 IP, 43 K, 7 BB. Some folks may argue that this is way too low. Misch did get his feet back on the ground in Norwich, the PCL is particularly unfriendly to finesse pitchers, but those Fresno numbers are ugly. I'll be happy to say I was wrong if he has a better year at Fresno in 2006.

41. Antoan Richardson (OF) B-S, T-R. DOB: 10-08-1983. 5'8", 165 lbs.

.321/.465!!/ .378 with 40 SB and just 6 CS for AZL Giants. What an intrigueing prospect. Reportedly the fastest guy in the organization, 3.9 sec to 1B lefthanded and 4.0 righthanded. His mother was a sprinter for Bermuda in the Olympics. Reportedly has a very unorthodox hitting style. Think Neifi Perez without the power. Still, his OBP is very un-Neifi like. Put that with the speed and we could be onto something here.

42. Emmanuel Cividanes (OF) B-L, T-L. DOB: 10-31-1984. 6'1", 175 lbs.

.345/.348/.469 with 6 SB's and 0 CS. I don't know too much about this kid. He's been kicking around AZ for a couple of years. My impression is that he's a toolsy kid with some iupside. He obviously isn't afraid to swing the bat!

43. Jake Wald (SS) B-R, T-R. DOB: 02-08-1982. 6'2", 180 lbs.

.293/.357/.493 with 15 HR's for San Jose. A little old to be coming out of high A ball, but has very nice size and power for a shortstop. I saw him put a charge into a ball late in the season againtst Inland Empire that sure impressed me. If he can keep it going in CT, he could be a Rich Aurilia type middle infielder.

44. Joe Bateman (RHP) DOB: 05-06-1980. 6'1", 182 lbs.

3-4, 1.91, 75.1 IP, 80 K, 22 BB, 21 saves for San Jose. A sidearming righty, I'm not sure why Bateman got hung out to dry in San Jose after pitching successfully in Norwich at the end of 2004. Became the closer after Justin Hedrick struggled in that role and was lights out. Were I an opposing GM, I would have been very tempted to take a flyer on him in Rule 5. Gosh! Bateman's at #44? That's awesome!

45. Tim Hutting (SS) B-R, T-R. DOB: 10-29-1981. 6'0", 190 lbs.

.259/.360/.344. In an organization full of sleepers, Hutting may be the sleepiest. Once again, the Eastern League is so tough on hitters. I'm intrigued by the OBP.

46. Alfredo Simon (RHP) DOB: 09-09-1980. 6'4", 230 lbs.

3-8, 5.03, 91.1 IP, 60 K, 24 BB, 19 saves for Norwich. This may well be too low for a guy with high 90's heat, but my gosh, how long do you wait for the performance to catch up with the tools? Simon seemed to pitch a little better as a closer, but those are ugly numbers, especially the K/IP.

47. Ryan Sadowski (RHP) DOB: 10-04-1982. 6'4", 185 lbs.

9-6, 4.64, 126 IP, 118 K, 42 BB. for San Jose. A vast improvement on his prior performances. He had several eye popping games with 10+ K's. Still a little on the inconsistent side but must have good stuff when he gets it together. Let's see if he can find more consistency at a higher level.

48. Josue Gomez (LHP) DOB: 03-14-1985. 6'3", 200 lbs.

2-0, 2.65, 34 IP, 37 K, 19 BB for AZL Giants. Gomez could be another major sleeper. A big lefty who reportedly get his fastball into the low 90's.

49. Joey Dyche (OF) B-R, T-R. DOB: 10-27-1982. 6'1", 185 lbs.

.289/.359/356 with 17 SB's and 10 CS for S-K. A draftee out of Lewis and Clark College, alma mater of Marvin Benard and Jason Ellison. BA of .500 his senior year in college. I'd say his BA with S-K was a little disappointing. He certainly showed no power and the CS rate is alarming. May have been a little fatigued after the college season. We'll see.

50. Angel Chavez (INF) DOB: 07-22-1981. 6'1", 195 lbs.

Hit .280+ with a total of 16 HR's for SJ and Fresno bouncing back from a disappointing 2004. He's got good size for a middle infielder and has some pop. Hit .263 in a handful of appearances with SF in Sept. Ceiling is realistically as a reserve infielder.

Here's a few names that I didn't have room for in the Top 50 who I think deserve some mention:

Alex Hinshaw (LHP)

David Quinowski (LHP)

Wayne Foltin (RHP)

David Maroul (INF)

Tom King (RHP) 6'5" submariner signed in Sept out of an indy league. Is already generatiing a bit of a buzz. John Manuel says BA's reports says he can bring it.

Robert Grace (RHP) Scott Eyre's half brother.

Carlos De La Rosa (RHP)

http://216.239.59.104/search?q=cache:L6YXi...no&ct=clnk&cd=4

[RedSoxFan]

6/22 - Baltimore Orioles John Halama P Refused Minor League Assignment - Free Agent

Kansas City Royals Designated OF Kerry Robinson for assignment

[JoeyMcM93]

Damn Emil, you've really done your home worek. Great job man.

[Emil]

Damn Emil, you've really done your home worek. Great job man.

Thanks! I didn't write it thou, but it was a good find :wink:

[tejdog1]

Not to be outdone (this was before the Delgado trade and Pelfrey signing)

This was before the Delgado trade BTW.

1. Carlos Gomez: We said a year ago that Gomez had the talent to rank at the top of this list, so this shouldn't come as a surprise. Internally, the Mets are divided in half as to which prospect is their number one - Milledge or Gomez. In reality, they should be ranked 1 and 1A. While Milledge is the safest pick at number one, Gomez has a higher upside. He has a better arm, as much speed if not more, and more power projection. Forget the eight home runs Gomez hit for Hagerstown this past season. He has a lot more power than his numbers have shown, drawing comparisons to Juan Gonzalez from one National League scout.

2. Lastings Milledge: While Gomez might have the higher upside, there's no safer bet among the Mets' prospects than Lastings Milledge to have a flourishing Major League career. He might be the best overall hitter in the farm system, owning a .313 career batting average as he heads into the 2006 season. Some scouts believe he'll be a young right-handed hitting version of Barry Bonds (his younger days with Pittsburgh) and others believe his ceiling is as a Matt Lawton or Milton Bradley type. The truth most likely lies somewhere in the middle. He remains the Mets #1 bargaining chip in potential trades.

3. Philip Humber: Tommy John surgery or not, Humber is the clearly the pitching prospect with the highest upside among the Mets' pitching prospects. He's a true power pitcher, averaging 92-94 MPH with his fastball and he compliments it with a dominating curveball. His command and battle tested mettle on the mound are undeniable. The only question mark surrounding his game is how he responds to his recovery from Tommy John surgery.

4. Mike Jacobs: Here's the Mets' prospect most Mets' fans are most familiar with heading into this offseason. Jacobs made a name for himself in 2005 by clubbing 11 home runs for the Mets after notching another Mets' Minor League Hitter of the Year Award (first winning it after the 2003 season) this past season. We ranked him just 14th last season in our Top 50 Prospects list mostly because of the significant question marks about his power hitting ability because of his injured labrum a year ago. He puts all those questions to rest in 2005.

5. Yusmeiro Petit: Much has been made of Petit's less than dominating "stuff". Petit simply knows how to pitch, deceiving opposing batters with an excellent pitch combination, great location and command, and a surprising deception. He improved his fastball in 2005, averaging in the low 90's more consistently this past season. While the pundits may be down on his stuff, they can't overlook the tremendous results he posted as a 20-year old hurler pitching at the AA level.

6. Brian Bannister: Bannister and Petit are essentially the same pitcher. Neither one has a dominating pitch in their repertoire and both have had tremendous success on the mound with good control and pitching ability. Bannister, four years older than Petit, had a solid stint in AAA with the Tides this past season after blowing through the Eastern League at the AA level earlier in the year. We told our subscribers a year ago that his cut-fastball (or slider) would put Bannister over the top and make him an elite pitching prospect.

7. Mike Carp: Carp used a hot mini-camp last January and an even hotter Spring Training to secure the starting first base job with the Hagerstown Suns this past season. Battling through nagging injuries all season, Carp still managed to hit 19 home runs in his first 313 at-bats at the A-level. He still has a long way to go in his development, but he's a much better hitter than his .249 average in 2005 indicates. Some Mets' officials believe he could be the best left-handed hitting prospect in their system since Daryl Strawberry.

8. Shawn Bowman: Bowman had a rough go of it at the plate in 2005, getting off to a .165 start in his first two months in the Florida State League. However, he turned it around in the second half of the season, hitting .292 before a back injury ended his season prematurely. He still managed to hit 17 home runs in the pitching-friendly Florida State League and he's already one of the elite defensive third base prospects in the game. How he battles back from his back injury - he could miss the start of the 2006 season - is the biggest question mark to his game right now.

9. Ambiorix Concepcion: One of the five-tool talents in the Mets' system, Concepcion had a disappointing 2005 campaign. He hit just .251 on the year, but it wasn't too bad considering his surprisingly slow start. Concepcion has plus power, plus speed, and one of the better arms in minor league baseball. How he handles breaking pitches and his ability to make consistent contact at the plate will determine just how far he'll go. He is as talented as they come though.

10. Gaby Hernandez: Rounding out the top ten is the Mets' third round pick from 2004. Gaby impressed everyone in his first taste of long-season league baseball this past season, including tossing a no-hitter for the Hagerstown Suns before finishing the season with the St. Lucie Mets as a 19-year old in the Florida State League. He didn't do well at the higher level, but that isn't unexpected for such a young pitcher. Gaby's stuff doesn't translate to an elite pitching prospect, but he's very solid and should eventually be an excellent middle-of-the-rotation type of starter down the road.

11. Anderson Hernandez: Obtained from the Detroit Tigers for Vance Wilson last Spring, Hernandez came to the Mets with the reputation as a defensive wizard - meaning he couldn't hit. Hernandez not only proved the critics wrong, he earned the praises of his teammates and coaches alike. He hit well over .300 in his two stops between AA-Binghamton and AAA-Norfolk, showing good speed and surprising gap power. Binghamton Mets' skipper Jack Lind called Hernandez one of the best switch-hitting prospects he has seen in 35 years of baseball. While we're not ready to do the same, his potential is unquestionable.

12. Jamar Hill: Hill's slow start was a major reason why the pre-season favorite St. Lucie Mets struggled in the first half this past season. But like Bowman, Hill turned his season around in the second half. He hit .284 with 14 of his 16 home runs in his final 85 games. Hill has a lot more power than he displayed in the pitching-friendly Florida State League and he compares to Reggie Sanders at the Major League level. Hill should not be overlooked despite the somewhat disappointing season.

13. Jesus Flores: A broken hand in the Spring's final exhibition game against the Washington Nationals delayed his start to the 2005 season over six weeks and he struggled upon his return. Flores is the most complete catching prospect in the Mets' farm system. While some of his fellow Mets' prospects have compared him to some of the game's elite power hitters, Flores compares to a Ramon Hernandez type at the Major League level. He remains a top prospect until he gets a chance to prove his worth at the higher minor league levels.

14. Nick Evans: While internally the Mets are split as to which player is the top prospect, the Mets are also split as to which first base prospect has the highest ceiling, Carp or Evans. While Carp has a distinct advantage as a left-handed hitter, Evans' talent should not be overlooked. The two player compare favorably. Evans has legit power potential and he is still very raw. He could chip in with a breakout campaign as the Hagertown Suns' first baseman in 2006.

15. Matt Lindstrom: The hardest thrower in the Mets' farm system, Lindstrom was always perceived as a relief pitching prospect by everybody outside the Mets' organization. The Mets finally realized that too in 2005 after Lindstrom got off to a disastrous start in the Binghamton rotation. He posted a 8.18 ERA as a starter but finished his 2005 campaign with a 3.12 ERA as a reliever. Lindstrom is the top closing prospect in the Mets' system and he could have a huge rebound in 2006 now that he'll be moved into the bullpen permanently.

16. Brett Harper: Harper lead the entire Mets' organization with 36 home runs in 2005, finally showing the plus power many believed he had. The 24-year old first baseman, who is mostly just serviceable defensively, is more of a designated hitter type at the Major League level. We said last season that he'll need to hit his way into the Major Leagues and he clearly has responded well. With the Mets seemingly content with Jacobs at first base for the time being, it remains to be seen what Harper's role will be in the organization in the immediate future.

17. Jose Coronado: Many within the Mets' organization have Coronado ranked as one of their top prospects already, much higher than our #17 ranking. Coronado has fantastic range for a shortstop with a good arm. He's a good switch-hitter with an advanced eye the plate. Coronado has intriguing power potential, but it is too soon in his development to get a very accurate read as to the type of hitter he'll become. At worst, Coronado is a defensive genius that will advance quickly as a result.

18. Jeremy Hill: The six-year free agent missed a good portion of the 2004 season and the start of the 2005 season after Tommy John surgery. Hill possesses a plus fastball, sitting in the 93-95 MPH range, and a plus slider. He has made immense strides with his slider and he projects to be a very good setup man out of the bullpen at the Major League level. Re-siging Hill will be a top priority for the Mets this offseason.

19. Shane Hawk: The forgotten man, Hawk missed the entire 2005 season with multiple tears in his throwing shoulder. Hawk, a starter in college, has one of the more complete repertoires of any of the Mets' relief pitching prospects. He owns a plus fastball, a devastating slider, and a very good changeup. The positive from his injury was that he was able to add some useful muscle mass to his lanky frame. Hawk is expected to return to action in 2006 and he remains a top relief pitching prospect.

20. Corey Ragsdale: Ragsdale's bat and surprising error totals has drawn many a collective sigh from Mets' fans, even being considered overrated by many. The bottom line is he still remains an elite defensive shortstop prospect with plus power and good speed. Internally, Ragsdale ranks much higher on the prospect list and his 19 home runs in 2005 were a career high. It was his finest offensive season by far and he could be ready for an even better 2006 campaign. He doesn't turn 23 years old until November so he's still very young.

21. Angel Pagan: Pagan has always been considered a future role player with the Mets, a very solid fourth outfielder. The 24-year old outfielder has the defensive ability to play all three outfield positions in a pinch and his offensive game, while predicated mostly on speed, is quite good overall. He still strikes out a bit too much but will be a welcomed addition to the Mets' bench in the future.

22. Chase Lambin: Lambin had a career year in 2005, hitting a combined .309 with 33 doubles and 24 home runs in two stops between AA-Binghamton and AAA-Norfolk. He had always projected as more of a utility player because of his lack of offensive production, but his breakout year this past season could have the Mets revisiting that thought. Able to play a multitude of positions well defensively, Lambin projects to be a Joe McEwing-type, with better offensive potential, at worst. His attitude and hustle will be welcomed additions to the Mets, possibly as early as next season.

23. Kevin Deaton: Deaton got off to a hot start with the Binghamton Mets in 2005 before a series of injuries ended his season prematurely. Armed with a very good sinking fastball and a solid breaking repertoire, Deaton will most likely miss the start of the 2006 season after Tommy John surgery. He has excellent control of his pitches and when healthy, has a bulldog mentality on the mound.

24. Aarom Baldiris: Baldiris finally made the move over to second base because of his lack of power. A very good defensive third base prospect, Baldiris didn't look as comfortable defensively at second base and he doesn't have the good range associated with a middle infielder. Baldiris, who smacked 33 doubles and a career-high 11 home runs, finally put together a respectable season in the power department. But as of now, Baldiris figures more as a key role player at the Major League level instead of a full-time player.

25. Scott Hyde: Hyde missed the entire 2005 season after Tommy John surgery. Armed with an average Major League fastball, Hyde is more of a backwards pitcher, setting up his fastball with excellent breaking pitches. His curveball is among the best in the farm system and he does have a very good changeup. His ranking is based solely on potential. How he responds from his surgery and what he does at the A-level in 2006 will dictate if he remains this high next season.

26. Evan MacLane: People have been telling MacLane he didn't have the stuff to make it to the Major Leagues for a long time. All MacLane has done is continue to put up the solid numbers, proving people that he's a lot better than they think. Drawing comparisons to Jamie Moyer, MacLane is all about his excellent control. He's one of the more intelligent pitchers on the mound, mixing in his pitches very well. MacLane might not have the stuff of a top pitching prospect, but he's letting his results speak for themselves.

27. Grant Psomas: The former shortstop has become one of the better defensive third base prospects in the system. Psomas, who makes good contact, has very good power as well. He doesn't project to be an elite third base prospect, but his overall ability is very solid. Psomas projects to be a Chase Lambin type as a super-sub coming off the bench. He can play second base in a pinch and his hustle on the field and leadership in the clubhouse is truly fantastic.

28. Dante Brinkley: We made the statement last season that Dante Brinkley was one of the biggest sleeper prospects in the farm system. And judging by his 2005 performance, even we may have underestimated him. Brinkley looked like a world beater with the Hagerstown Suns this past season and held his own in the Florida State League upon his promotion. He may not have the plus power enough to be a starting outfielder with the Mets someday, but with his overall ability and unbelievable leadership skills, Brinkley would make a great fourth outfielder.

29. Jeff Landing: Stuff-wise, there's not much separating Landing from the likes of a Gaby Hernandez. The main difference between the two pitchers is confidence, location, and guile on the mound. Landing had a solid start to the 2005 season with the Hagerstown Suns before opening more eyes in the organization with his performance with the Brooklyn Cyclones. He projects to be a solid fourth starter at the Major League level someday if he can start pitching with more confidence.

30. Sean Henry: Henry is slowly but surely opening some eyes in the organization with his steady progress at the plate and in the field. With Jose Coronado now the organizational favorite at shortstop at the lower levels, Henry's progression to second base could become permanent as soon as next season. Henry's a very good gap hitter with a good plan and approach at the plate. His combination of power and speed at the middle infield position makes him an intriguing prospect as a starter down the road, but his versatility gives him a nice fallback option as a reserve player.

31. Andrew Wilson: Wilson has proven over the last two seasons that he can hit a baseball, and hit it for power. He doesn't have a full-time defensive position however. Wilson has been tested all over the diamond, even getting further looks as a catcher in the Arizona Fall League this year. Not blessed with one of the better arms around, Wilson's lack of a true position hurts his overall chances as a prospect with a National League team. But he'll just continue hitting his way to the Major Leagues.

32. Jorge Reyes: Sleeper alert! We were tempted to rank Reyes higher on this list, but the 21-year old flamethrower didn't exactly light up the box scores with the Brooklyn Cyclones this past season. Many in the Mets' organization are high on the big right-handed hurler. He throws a fastball consistently in the low to mid 90's, a plus slider with tremendous downward action, and a developing changeup. Reyes could climb the charts in a hurry if he can put it all together.

33. Marcelo Perez: Perez has flown under the radar the last couple of seasons, but quite frankly he has done very well. Perez, like Reyes, is armed with a plus fastball and solid breaking pitches. But unlike Reyes, Perez projects to be more of a relief pitcher and possible setup man down the road. He was the pitcher that Gene Richards and the Suns leaned on the most this past season. The only drawback to Perez is his advanced age. The 25-year old could rank higher on this list once he shows he can get out batters closer to his age at the higher minor league levels.

34. Robert Paulk: Armed with one of the best curveballs in the system, Paulk served a "rehab" assignment with the Brooklyn Cyclones in 2005. He has a good fastball and a plus approach on the mound. Paulk projects to be a solid setup man at the Major League level. Ranking much higher on the Mets' list, Paulk needs to be challenged in 2006. He could see ample time with the Binghamton Mets next season.

35. Kole Strayhorn: Strayhorn is another fire-baller who throws some serious gas. Armed with a mid-90's fastball and a good curveball, Strayhorn is nearly unhittable when he's throwing his splitter well. However, inconsistent command of his splitter and health issues have risen concerns over his future. It was a positive sign that he finished the season healthy and the Mets are hoping the 23-year old can bounce back with a solid year in Binghamton in 2006.

36. Alhaji Turay: Turay's injury problems are now causing him to miss significant development time. When he was healthy to begin the year this past season, Turay looked lost at the plate despite playing a full year in the Florida State League the year prior. He has some of the best raw power of any hitting prospect in the farm system, but it is tough to prove if you can't get on the field. He makes the top 50 because of his talent, but until he can remain healthy and put up numbers, his value as a prospect continues to fade.

37. Miguel Pinango: Pinango is slowly becoming the pitching version of Turay because of his inability to remain healthy. Pinango is a solid pitcher with good control. He has an average Major League fastball, sitting 88-91 MPH with it, and he compliments his fastball with a good changeup and a developing slider and curveball. Pinango has Yusmeiro Petit-type ability, able to mix in his pitches very well. He's still just 22 years old and he could see significant time with Binghamton in 2006.

38. Aaron Hathaway: Hathaway is a very good defensive catcher who is blessed with a tremendous arm behind the plate. He's also very athletic for a catcher with good speed who also played some backup third base this past season. Hathaway doesn't hit for enough power to project as a starting player at the Major League level, but with his defensive prowess behind the plate and his athleticism in the field, he could become a key role player for the Mets coming off the bench.

39. Rafael Cova: Sleeper alert! Cova has some wicked stuff in his repertoire. Our subscribers probably remember his name being mentioned in the post-Instructs interviews we conducted as a guy to watch out for. Cova is a big-bodied pitcher that throws heat in the mid-90's consistently. He also has a solid curveball and a changeup. Cova can be wild at times and he doesn't appear to have the smartest plan on the mound. But his stuff is tremendous and once he learns to hone his control, he could be an outstanding pitching prospect.

40. Wayne Lydon: Lydon repeated the AA level in 2005 and wound up hitting 27 points lower and saw his stolen bases totals tumble for the fourth straight year. Lydon, who once appeared to have the look of a reserve outfielder, still might fulfill those projections, but has the look more of a pinch-runner. Speed is his only plus tool and he's been overtaken on the depth charts for reserve outfielders by the likes of Pagan, Brinkley, and others.

41. Jeff Keppinger: One of the more advanced batting eyes at the plate, Keppinger's a light-hitting version of Jeff Kent. Keppinger has little or no power, certainly not enough to put a stranglehold on a starting position at the Major League level. He could hit for a high enough average, which makes his eventual role as a pinch hitter a valuable one. Keppinger hasn't come close to reaching his previous career-high of 10 home runs, set back in the South Atlantic League back in 2002. His lack of range limits his projectablity as a utility player.

42. Jason Scobie: Scobie is one of many fourth or fifth starting pitching prospects in the Mets' farm system. While the likes of Gaby Hernandez, Jeff Landing, Petit, and Bannister still have some projection left, Scobie has reached his ceiling. The 27-year old has a solid four-pitch repertoire (fastball, curveball, slider, changeup) and his fastball stands in the 87-90 MPH range. Scobie has proven he'll battle on the mound and he could be the first pitcher called up in a spot start situation next season.

43. Joe Hietpas: One of the more solid defensive catchers at the minor league level, Hietpas has become the personal favorite battery mate of several pitchers in the Mets' organization. Pitchers just love the way he calls a game, receives the ball, and blocks anything thrown in the dirt. The problem is Hietpas doesn't appear likely to hit enough to warrant a starting spot in a Major League lineup. But he's the type of guy that could have a 15-year career in the Majors as a solid backup backstop.

44. Royce Ring: Once considered a solid setup man or possible left-handed closer, Ring has settled down into a possible left-handed situational reliever at the Major League level. His control is solid and the soon-to-be 25-year old limited left-handed batters to a .145 batting average at the AAA-level this past season. Righties however hit him way too much to be much more than a lefty specialist.

45. Drew Butera: See Joe Hietpas above. Butera is a wonderful defensive catching prospect. He has arguably the best arm behind the plate and can be an absolute game-changer throwing out would-be base stealers. But even with his professional career just beginning, there doesn't appear to be much projection in his bat, not enough to project as a starting catcher at the Major League level. But like Hietpas, he'll reach the Bigs as a backup signal caller.

46. Anderson Garcia: Obtained from the Yankees in the Armando Benitez trade, Garcia is a hard thrower. He averages 90-97 MPH with his fastball and he compliments it with a biting slider. The problem with Garcia is that he hasn't mastered his changeup, a pitch he'll need to be successful at the higher levels. He throws his changeup to fast, 87-88 MPH, which often times becomes a meatball pitch in the middle of the zone. He could turn a corner if he could throw it a little bit slower.

47. Greg Gonzalez: Gonzalez already has opened some eyes in the Mets' organization with his speed, hitting ability, and approach at the plate. In fact, several scouts compare him to Angel Pagan. He can make a big difference on the base paths and he has tremendous range in the outfield. The question will be can Gonzalez hit for high enough average at the higher minor league levels in order to become a solid fourth outfielder. The Mets, and Inside Pitch, believe he can.

48. Edgar Alfonzo: Alfonzo is almost the left-handed reliever version of Yusmeiro Petit. He doesn't have overwhelming stuff. His fastball is only 87-91 MPH, but he does have a solid curveball and changeup. Alfonzo mixes his pitches well and he keeps hitters off balance. However, he'll need to start posting the numbers many believes he is capable of in order to hold of the likes of German Marte and others overtaking him on this list.

49. Greg Ramirez: Ramirez is another back-end rotation type of guy or solid reliever. He has pitched primarily as a starter in his minor league career thus far. Ramirez has a solid four-pitch repertoire. His 2-seam fastball has some excellent movement and sink to it. He compliments his fastball with a good curveball, a solid slider, and a developing changeup. His problem at this point is age. He'll be 25 years old next season and he hasn't pitched in AA yet. A hot stretch in Binghamton next season could put him a stone's throw away from Shea though.

50. Matt Durkin: Durkin is the classic example of why it is prudent to wait on ranking new players to a farm system. Drafted in the 2nd round of the 2005 MLB Draft, Durkin was shaky in his professional debut with the Hagerstown Suns. His velocity was down in 2005 and so was his command. Durkin prides himself on being a power pitcher, so with his velocity down, he obviously wasn't the same pitcher. He'll need to rebound in 2006 in St. Lucie to climb the rankings.

[cybernetic]

Here's a link to a scouting report of Jays-A 1B Josh Kreuzer. He's missed a lot of time due to injury this season but he would be the starting 1B for Dunedin if he were healthy. Report was taken following last season:

http://www.calleaguers.com/KreuzerJosh05.html

You should use him to replace Joey Metropolous who is in Low-A