BSN07
12-08-2006, 02:37 PM
Got this off of MLB.com
1Delmon Young, OF, Devil Rays (491)
2006 stats: [AAA] .316 BA/ .341 OBP/ .474 SLG [TB] .317 BA/ .336 OBP/ .476 SLG
2006 Club: Durham/Tampa Bay ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 1
The bat-throwing incident clearly hurt his rep a bit, though acting as a perfect citizen after his Sept. callup helped restore it some. He's still the most talented player in the Minors.
2Alex Gordon, 3B, Royals (479)
2006 stats: [AA] .325 BA/ .427 OBP/ .588 SLG
2006 Club: Wichita ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 13
Many polled had Gordon in the top spot, and for good reason. He showed surprising speed to go along with expected power and should push Mark Teahen soon.
3Homer Bailey, RHP, Reds (407)
2006 stats: 10-6, 2.47 ERA, 138.2 IP, 99 H, 50 BB, 156 K
2006 Club: Sarasota/Chattanooga ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 32
The top pitcher on the list really took off in 2006, especially after a promotion to Double-A. The Reds did well not to push him to the bigs too soon, but he should get there at some point next season.
4Phil Hughes, RHP, Yankees (395)
2006 stats: 12-6, 2.16 ERA, 146.0 IP, 92 H, 34 BB, 168 K
2006 Club: Tampa/Trenton ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 30
Kudos to the Yanks for not dealing Hughes with everyone calling about him. Now, combined with newly acquired Humberto Sanchez, they've got a 1-2 punch in the making.
5Brandon Wood, SS, Angels (381)
2006 stats: [AA] .276 BA/ .355 OBP/ .552 SLG
2006 Club: Arkansas ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 3
There was no way he could duplicate his 2005 numbers, but he still was extremely good as a young regular in Double-A. The Angels can afford to let him spend a full year in Triple-A if needed.
6Cameron Maybin, OF, Tigers (334)
2006 stats: [A] .304 BA/ .387 OBP/ .457 SLG
2006 Club: West Michigan ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Despite battling some injuries, Maybin had a very successful first season, capping it off with a Midwest League title. A jump to Double-A next season puts him on the fast track.
7Justin Upton, OF, Diamondbacks (315)
2006 stats: [A] .263 BA/ .343 OBP/ .413 SLG
2006 Club: South Bend ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: 7
Perhaps Upton didn't have the kind of season expected of the No. 1 overall pick, but he didn't fall flat on his face, either. Look for the performance to catch up to the tools beginning in 2007.
8Jay Bruce, OF, Reds (236)
2006 stats: [A] .291 BA/ .355 OBP/ .516 SLG
2006 Club: Dayton ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
It's hard not to like the numbers Bruce put up in his first full season. Then think about how quickly the 42 doubles will turn into homers and Reds fans really have something to be excited about.
9Troy Tulowitzki, SS, Rockies (229)
2006 stats: [AA] .290 BA/ .370 OBP/ .473 SLG [COL] .240 BA/ .318 OBP/ .292 SLG
2006 Club: Tulsa/Colorado ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 37
Drafted in the hopes he'd move quickly, he did just that, debuting in Double-A and ending in the big leagues. He should be the Rockies starting shortstop on Opening Day.
10Yovani Gallardo, RHP, Brewers (220)
2006 stats: 11-5, 1.86 ERA, 155.0 IP, 104 H, 51 BB, 188 K
2006 Club: Brevard County/Huntsville ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Gallardo passed up fellow Brewer Mark Rogers on their depth chart and became one of the top arms in MiLB by pitching well at two levels. He may not have the pure power stuff of others, but the results will be there.
11Scott Elbert, LHP, Dodgers (220)
2006 stats: 11-9, 2.90 ERA, 146.0 IP, 97 H, 85 BB, 173 K
2006 Club: Vero Beach/Jacksonville ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 34
The first southpaw on the list, Elbert is a lefty with power stuff. When the command catches up -- and it will -- the Dodgers will another young fireballer joining them in LA.
12Mike Pelfrey, RHP, Mets (217)
2006 stats: 7-3, 2.43 ERA, 96.1 IP, 81 H, 33 BB, 109 K
2006 Club: St. Lucie/Binghamton/Norfolk/New York ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank:47
Despite signing late, Pelfrey made it all the way to the big leagues in his first pro season. Even if he somehow has to start 2007 in the Minors, he should contribute in New York in the near future.
13Billy Butler, OF, Royals (215)
2006 stats: [AA] .331 AVG/ .388 OBP/ .499 SLG
2006 Club: Wichita ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 26
You could argue Butler is the best pure hitter in the Minors. He's worked hard on his outfield defense with the hopes he's improved enough to win a job in Kansas City next season.
14Adam Miller, RHP, Indians (210)
2006 stats: 15-6, 2.84 ERA, 158.1 IP, 133 H, 46 BB, 161 K
2006 Club: Akron/Buffalo ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Final Rank: 36
He now seems very close to all the way back from arm troubles, at least in terms of results. He'll get some time in Buffalo, but could be ready for the call during the season.
15Andrew McCutchen, OF, Pirates (204)
2006 stats: [A] .291 BA/ .356 OBP/ .446 SLG [AA] .308 BA/ .379 OBP/ .474 SLG
2006 Club: Hickory/Altoona ETA in Majors: 2008 2005 Final Rank: NR
He's done nothing but hit since his debut in the summer of 2005 and he jumped on the fast track with an impressive leap to Double-A at the end of this season. His power has come faster than people expected, too.
16Evan Longoria, 3B, Devil Rays (179)
2006 stats: [R] .424 BA/.487 OBP/.879 SLG [A] .327 BA/.402 OBP/.618 SLG [AA] .267 BA/.266 OBP/.486 SLG
2006 Club: Hudson Valley/Visalia/Montgomery ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
The only reason the ETA isn't next year is because of the depth the Rays have in the system. That being said, if Longoria keeps hitting like he did in his debut last summer, Tampa will make room for him sooner.
17Ryan Braun, 3B, Brewers (152)
2006 stats: [A] .274 BA/ .346 OBP/ .438 SLG [AA] .303 BA/ .367 OBP/ .589 SLG
2006 Club: Brevard County/Huntsville ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
During the AFL, Braun was usually the first player mentioned by other prospects when asked about which players stood out. His power-speed combination should hit Milwaukee soon.
18Chris Young, OF, Diamondbacks (148)
2006 stats: [AAA] .276 BA/ .363 OBP/ .532 SLG [ARI] .243 BA/ .308 OBP/ .386 SLG
2006 Club: Tucson/Arizona ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 27
Speaking of power-speed combos, Young is ready to take over as the Diamondbacks' starting center fielder. Once he settles in, he could be the next 30-30 star.
19Andrew Miller, LHP, Tigers (142)
2006 stats: 0-0, 0.00 ERA, 5.0 IP, 2 H, 1 BB, 9 K
2006 Club: Lakeland/Detroit ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
After getting to the bigs as a reliever soon after being drafted, Miller now can go back to the Minors to work on getting back full-time as a starter. It shouldn't take the tall lefty too long to get there.
20Nick Adenhart, RHP, Angels (137)
2006 stats: 15-4, 2.56 ERA, 158.1 IP, 135 H, 42 BB, 145 K
2006 Club: Cedar Rapids/Rancho Cucamonga ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
He may go down as one of the all-time draft steals. Now completely back from Tommy John surgery, he's quickly moving up the charts among right-handed pitching prospects.
21Matt Garza, RHP, Twins (131)
2006 stats: 14-4, 1.99 ERA, 135.2 IP, 87 H, 32 BB, 154 K
2006 Club: Ft Myers/New Britain/Rochester/Minnesota ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
His season was remarkable as he went from the Florida State League all the way to the bigs. Assuming he's in the Twins rotation all year, he could compete with Delmon Young for AL Rookie honors.
22Carlos Gonzalez, OF, Diamondbacks (129)
2006 stats: [AAA] .289 BA/ .424 OBP/ .487 SLG [ARI] .253 BA/ .342 OBP/ .530 SLG
2006 Club: Tucson/Arizona ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 41
He made the California League look silly at age 20, though the Southern League chewed him up late in the year. Give him a year there and he could be ready for the bigs.
23Jose Tabata, OF, Yankees (125)
2006 stats: [A] .298 BA/ .377 OBP/ .420 SLG
2006 Club: Charleston ETA in Majors: 2010 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
There are few prospects who elicit as much excitement as the Yankee outfielder. The Yankees can take their time with the teenager, though he may make it tough as he continues to figure things out.
24Josh Fields, 3B, White Sox (118)
2006 stats: [AAA] .305 BA/ .379 OBP/ .515 SLG [CWS] .150 BA/ .320 OBP/ .400 SLG
2006 Club: Charlotte/Chicago ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Fields is ready for the big leagues now, but there's no real spot for him right now. The former college QB is athletic enough to handle a move to the outfield if needed.
25Andy LaRoche, 3B, Dodgers (111)
2006 stats: [AA] .309 BA/ .419 OBP/ .483 SLG [AAA] .322 BA/ .400 OBP/ .550 SLG
2006 Club: Jacksonville/Las Vegas ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 29
The only slight concern about LaRoche at this point is his health. Look for his shoulders to be fine and for him to push Wilson Betemit at third sooner rather than later.
26Tim Lincecum, RHP, Giants (103)
2006 stats: 2-0, 1.71 ERA, 31.2 IP, 14 H, 12 BB, 58 K
2006 Club: Salem-Keizer/San Jose ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
If the Giants want to put him in the pen, he could help out next season. As a starter, it may take a little longer, but he's got nasty stuff either way.
27Fernando Martinez, OF, Mets (102)
2006 stats: [A] .333 BA/ .389 OBP/ .505 SLG [A+] .193 BA/ .254 OBP/ .387 SLG
2006 Club: GCL Mets/Hagerstown/St. Lucie ETA in Majors: 2010 2006 Pre-season: NR
The idea of Martinez and Tabata reaching New York at the same time almost seems too good to be true, but the Mets haven't been this excited about an outfielder in a while.
28Ian Stewart, 3B, Rockies (95)
2006 stats: [AA] .268 BA/ .351 OBP/ .452 SLG
2006 Club: Tulsa ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 16
This is a big year for the third baseman, as he needs to stay healthy and start producing again. If he doesn't, he could slide off of this list.
29Reid Brignac, SS, Devil Rays (83)
2006 stats: [A] .326 BA/ .382 OBP/ .557 SLG [AA] .300 BA/ .355 OBP/ .473 SLG
2006 Club: Visalia/Montgomery ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
The 20-year-old dominated the California League and hit well in Double-A as well, helping the Biscuits win a title. Short may not be his eventual home, but the Rays have an embarrassment of riches at this point.
30Luke Hochevar, RHP, Royals (79)
2006 stats: 0-1, 1.17 ERA, 15.1 IP, 8 H, 2 BB, 16 K
2006 Club: Burlington ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Some of the Royals' recent moves may ease the pressure on Hochevar. Still, he'll be ready to contribute with the rust completely shaken off
31Erick Aybar, SS, Angels (76)
2006 stats: [AAA] .283 BA/ .327 OBP/ .413 SLG
2006 Club: Salt Lake ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 49
Sometimes forgotten among the Angels stable of prospects, Aybar is the best defensive shortstop in the system and can run. The only issue is Orlando Cabrera standing in his way.
32Jarrod Saltalamacchia, C, Braves (66)
2006 stats: [AA] .230 BA/ .353 OBP/ .380 SLG
2006 Club: Mississippi ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 17
A subpar season probably bought the Braves another year. A return to Double-A might be in order, but when he rights himself it will be interesting to see what the Braves do with him and Brian McCann.
33James Loney, 1B, Dodgers (60)
2006 stats: [AAA] .380 AVG/ .426 OBP/ .546 SLG [LAD] .284 AVG/ .342 OBP/ .559 SLG
2006 Club: Las Vegas/Los Angeles ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
He may never hit for the power people thought he'd develop, but a guy who hits .380 in Triple-A is ready for the big leagues full-time. With Nomar in the way, perhaps a trade is in order.
34John Danks, LHP, Rangers (59)
2006 stats: 9-9, 4.24 ERA, 140.0 IP, 141 H, 56 BB, 154 K
2006 Club: Frisco/Oklahoma ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 31
The Rangers' pitching prospects haven't all delievered as hoped, but Danks still has tremendous upside. He also reached Triple-A at age 21, so he's still way ahead of the curve.
35Yunel Escobar, SS, Braves (59)
2006 stats: [AA] .264 BA/ .361 OBP/ .346 SLG
2006 Club: Mississippi ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
His 2006 season wasn't all that exciting, leaving some to wonder what kind of future the Cuban actually had. Then he went and won the AFL batting title with a .407 average, bringing the buzz back.
36Jacoby Ellsbury, OF, Red Sox (58)
2006 stats: [A] .299 BA/ .379 OBP/ .418 SLG [AA] .308 BA/ .382 OBP/ .425 SLG
2006 Club: Wilmington/Portland ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
In his first full season, the Oregon State product jumped a level, won a title and went to the AFL. He could be the Red Sox's center fielder and leadoff hitter in the not-too-distant future.
37Hunter Pence, OF, Astros (54)
2006 stats: [AA] .283 BA/ .357 OBP/ .533 SLG
2006 Club: Corpus Christi ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
It was another hugely productive year for Pence, showing both power and surprising speed. He won a Texas League title to boot, and no one is saying his swing won't play at the upper levels anymore.
38Felix Pie, OF, Cubs (53)
2006 stats: [AAA] .283 BA/ .341 OBP/ .451 SLG
2006 Club: Iowa ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 21
It's easy to forget how young Pie is considering he's already spent a full year in Triple-A. He still needs to work on some things and will likely get another year to do so in Iowa with the acquisition of Alfonso Soriano.
39Chuck Lofgren, LHP, Indians (43)
2006 stats: 17-5, 2.32 ERA, 139.2 IP, 108 H, 54 BB, 125 K
2006 Club: Kinston ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Spending the year in the Carolina League largely because of the Indians' depth, Lofgren was arguably the best in the Class A Advanced circuit. He and Scott Lewis will move up as part of the next wave of young Tribe arms.
40Daric Barton, 1B, Athletics (41)
2006 stats: [AAA] .259 AVG/ .384 OBP/ .395 SLG
2006 Club: AZL Athletics/Sacramento ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 35
His freaky elbow injury didn't keep Barton from sliding too far on the list. Most think he'll return to form in 2007 with one of the better swings in the game.
41Adam Jones, OF, Mariners (37)
2006 stats: [AAA] .287 BA/ .345 OBP/ .484 SLG [SEA] .216 BA/ .237 OBP/ .311 SLG
2006 Club: Tacoma/Seattle ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
The transition from shortstop went exceedingly well as Jones' offensive game continued to develop at the same time. He got a taste of big league life in 2006; he'll be looking to stay there full-time next season.
42Clayton Kershaw, LHP, Dodgers (37)
2006 stats: 2-0, 1.95 ERA, 37.0 IP, 28 H, 5 BB, 54 K
2006 Club: GCL Dodgers ETA in Majors: 2010 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
A stirring debut has many thinking the Dodgers once again found a gem in this past draft. His ETA might be a touch conservative considering his polish and the Dodgers' willingness to move their pitchers fairly quickly.
43Blake DeWitt, 3B, Dodgers (32)
2006 stats: [A] .268 AVG/ .339 OBP/ .442 SLG [AA] .183 AVG/ .241 OBP/ .221 SLG
2006 Club: Vero Beach/Jacksonville ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
He didn't take off like some thought, but at least one scout still considered him an elite prospect. His stint in Hawaii didn't go too well, but most are still confident things will start clicking in soon.
44Jeff Clement, C, Mariners (32)
2006 stats: [AA] .288 AVG/ .386 OBP/ .525 SLG [AAA] .257 AVG/ .321 OBP/ .347 SLG
2006 Club: San Antonio/Tacoma ETA in Majors: 2008 2005 Final Rank: NR
What do you make of Clement's 2006? He did make it up to Triple-A, but he struggled with injuries and didn't perform well in Hawaii. With Kenji Johjima entrenched, there's no huge rush.
45Mark Rogers, RHP, Brewers (28)
2006 stats: 1-2, 4.92 ERA, 75.0 IP, 73 H, 55 BB, 101 K
2006 Club: AZL Brewers/Brevard County ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: 40
Before he got hurt, Rogers had a stretch where it appeared he was starting to figure things out. His stuff still grades out off the charts, but he'll have to prove he's healthy in 2007.
46Chris Volstad, RHP, Marlins (27)
2006 stats: 11-8, 3.08 ERA, 152.0 IP, 161 H, 36 BB, 99 K
2006 Club: Greensboro ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Like the Dodgers, the Marlins don't hesitate to move young pitchers aggressively. With some depth, there's no rush but based on Volstad's second half, he's a prime candidate for a 2007 breakout.
47Kevin Slowey, RHP, Twins (26)
2006 stats: 8-5, 1.88 ERA, 148.2 IP, 102 H, 22 BB, 151 K
2006 Club: Ft Myers/New Britain ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
If not for Matt Garza's leap to the big leagues, Slowey's remarkable first full season would've been the talk of the Twins system. The control artist should start next season in Triple-A waiting to help out.
48Jason Hirsh, RHP, Astros (23)
2006 stats: 13-2, 2.10 ERA, 137.1 IP, 94 H, 51 BB, 118 K
2006 Club: Round Rock/Houston ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Hirsh followed up a breakout 2005 with an even-better 2006 in the hitter-friendly PCL. While his big league time didn't go as well as hoped, he still got to experience a playoff race and is ready for the bigs now.
49Kevin Kouzmanoff, 3B, Padres (23)
2006 stats: [AA] .389 AVG/.449 OBP/.660 SLG [AAA] .353 AVG/ .409 OBP/ .647 SLG
2006 Club: Akron/Buffalo/Cleveland ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
He's flown under the radar for most of his career, but all he's done is hit at every level. He'll try to do it full-time in the bigs with his new team in San Diego.
50Elvis Andrus, SS, Braves (22)
2006 stats: [A] .265 AVG/ .324 OBP/ .362 SLG
2006 Club: Rome ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: 49
He's got a world of talent; it's only a matter of him developing them further. Look for him to do that over the course of the 2007 season
Least we got one guy in the top 50
1Delmon Young, OF, Devil Rays (491)
2006 stats: [AAA] .316 BA/ .341 OBP/ .474 SLG [TB] .317 BA/ .336 OBP/ .476 SLG
2006 Club: Durham/Tampa Bay ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 1
The bat-throwing incident clearly hurt his rep a bit, though acting as a perfect citizen after his Sept. callup helped restore it some. He's still the most talented player in the Minors.
2Alex Gordon, 3B, Royals (479)
2006 stats: [AA] .325 BA/ .427 OBP/ .588 SLG
2006 Club: Wichita ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 13
Many polled had Gordon in the top spot, and for good reason. He showed surprising speed to go along with expected power and should push Mark Teahen soon.
3Homer Bailey, RHP, Reds (407)
2006 stats: 10-6, 2.47 ERA, 138.2 IP, 99 H, 50 BB, 156 K
2006 Club: Sarasota/Chattanooga ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 32
The top pitcher on the list really took off in 2006, especially after a promotion to Double-A. The Reds did well not to push him to the bigs too soon, but he should get there at some point next season.
4Phil Hughes, RHP, Yankees (395)
2006 stats: 12-6, 2.16 ERA, 146.0 IP, 92 H, 34 BB, 168 K
2006 Club: Tampa/Trenton ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 30
Kudos to the Yanks for not dealing Hughes with everyone calling about him. Now, combined with newly acquired Humberto Sanchez, they've got a 1-2 punch in the making.
5Brandon Wood, SS, Angels (381)
2006 stats: [AA] .276 BA/ .355 OBP/ .552 SLG
2006 Club: Arkansas ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 3
There was no way he could duplicate his 2005 numbers, but he still was extremely good as a young regular in Double-A. The Angels can afford to let him spend a full year in Triple-A if needed.
6Cameron Maybin, OF, Tigers (334)
2006 stats: [A] .304 BA/ .387 OBP/ .457 SLG
2006 Club: West Michigan ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Despite battling some injuries, Maybin had a very successful first season, capping it off with a Midwest League title. A jump to Double-A next season puts him on the fast track.
7Justin Upton, OF, Diamondbacks (315)
2006 stats: [A] .263 BA/ .343 OBP/ .413 SLG
2006 Club: South Bend ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: 7
Perhaps Upton didn't have the kind of season expected of the No. 1 overall pick, but he didn't fall flat on his face, either. Look for the performance to catch up to the tools beginning in 2007.
8Jay Bruce, OF, Reds (236)
2006 stats: [A] .291 BA/ .355 OBP/ .516 SLG
2006 Club: Dayton ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
It's hard not to like the numbers Bruce put up in his first full season. Then think about how quickly the 42 doubles will turn into homers and Reds fans really have something to be excited about.
9Troy Tulowitzki, SS, Rockies (229)
2006 stats: [AA] .290 BA/ .370 OBP/ .473 SLG [COL] .240 BA/ .318 OBP/ .292 SLG
2006 Club: Tulsa/Colorado ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 37
Drafted in the hopes he'd move quickly, he did just that, debuting in Double-A and ending in the big leagues. He should be the Rockies starting shortstop on Opening Day.
10Yovani Gallardo, RHP, Brewers (220)
2006 stats: 11-5, 1.86 ERA, 155.0 IP, 104 H, 51 BB, 188 K
2006 Club: Brevard County/Huntsville ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Gallardo passed up fellow Brewer Mark Rogers on their depth chart and became one of the top arms in MiLB by pitching well at two levels. He may not have the pure power stuff of others, but the results will be there.
11Scott Elbert, LHP, Dodgers (220)
2006 stats: 11-9, 2.90 ERA, 146.0 IP, 97 H, 85 BB, 173 K
2006 Club: Vero Beach/Jacksonville ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 34
The first southpaw on the list, Elbert is a lefty with power stuff. When the command catches up -- and it will -- the Dodgers will another young fireballer joining them in LA.
12Mike Pelfrey, RHP, Mets (217)
2006 stats: 7-3, 2.43 ERA, 96.1 IP, 81 H, 33 BB, 109 K
2006 Club: St. Lucie/Binghamton/Norfolk/New York ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank:47
Despite signing late, Pelfrey made it all the way to the big leagues in his first pro season. Even if he somehow has to start 2007 in the Minors, he should contribute in New York in the near future.
13Billy Butler, OF, Royals (215)
2006 stats: [AA] .331 AVG/ .388 OBP/ .499 SLG
2006 Club: Wichita ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 26
You could argue Butler is the best pure hitter in the Minors. He's worked hard on his outfield defense with the hopes he's improved enough to win a job in Kansas City next season.
14Adam Miller, RHP, Indians (210)
2006 stats: 15-6, 2.84 ERA, 158.1 IP, 133 H, 46 BB, 161 K
2006 Club: Akron/Buffalo ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Final Rank: 36
He now seems very close to all the way back from arm troubles, at least in terms of results. He'll get some time in Buffalo, but could be ready for the call during the season.
15Andrew McCutchen, OF, Pirates (204)
2006 stats: [A] .291 BA/ .356 OBP/ .446 SLG [AA] .308 BA/ .379 OBP/ .474 SLG
2006 Club: Hickory/Altoona ETA in Majors: 2008 2005 Final Rank: NR
He's done nothing but hit since his debut in the summer of 2005 and he jumped on the fast track with an impressive leap to Double-A at the end of this season. His power has come faster than people expected, too.
16Evan Longoria, 3B, Devil Rays (179)
2006 stats: [R] .424 BA/.487 OBP/.879 SLG [A] .327 BA/.402 OBP/.618 SLG [AA] .267 BA/.266 OBP/.486 SLG
2006 Club: Hudson Valley/Visalia/Montgomery ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
The only reason the ETA isn't next year is because of the depth the Rays have in the system. That being said, if Longoria keeps hitting like he did in his debut last summer, Tampa will make room for him sooner.
17Ryan Braun, 3B, Brewers (152)
2006 stats: [A] .274 BA/ .346 OBP/ .438 SLG [AA] .303 BA/ .367 OBP/ .589 SLG
2006 Club: Brevard County/Huntsville ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
During the AFL, Braun was usually the first player mentioned by other prospects when asked about which players stood out. His power-speed combination should hit Milwaukee soon.
18Chris Young, OF, Diamondbacks (148)
2006 stats: [AAA] .276 BA/ .363 OBP/ .532 SLG [ARI] .243 BA/ .308 OBP/ .386 SLG
2006 Club: Tucson/Arizona ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 27
Speaking of power-speed combos, Young is ready to take over as the Diamondbacks' starting center fielder. Once he settles in, he could be the next 30-30 star.
19Andrew Miller, LHP, Tigers (142)
2006 stats: 0-0, 0.00 ERA, 5.0 IP, 2 H, 1 BB, 9 K
2006 Club: Lakeland/Detroit ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
After getting to the bigs as a reliever soon after being drafted, Miller now can go back to the Minors to work on getting back full-time as a starter. It shouldn't take the tall lefty too long to get there.
20Nick Adenhart, RHP, Angels (137)
2006 stats: 15-4, 2.56 ERA, 158.1 IP, 135 H, 42 BB, 145 K
2006 Club: Cedar Rapids/Rancho Cucamonga ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
He may go down as one of the all-time draft steals. Now completely back from Tommy John surgery, he's quickly moving up the charts among right-handed pitching prospects.
21Matt Garza, RHP, Twins (131)
2006 stats: 14-4, 1.99 ERA, 135.2 IP, 87 H, 32 BB, 154 K
2006 Club: Ft Myers/New Britain/Rochester/Minnesota ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
His season was remarkable as he went from the Florida State League all the way to the bigs. Assuming he's in the Twins rotation all year, he could compete with Delmon Young for AL Rookie honors.
22Carlos Gonzalez, OF, Diamondbacks (129)
2006 stats: [AAA] .289 BA/ .424 OBP/ .487 SLG [ARI] .253 BA/ .342 OBP/ .530 SLG
2006 Club: Tucson/Arizona ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 41
He made the California League look silly at age 20, though the Southern League chewed him up late in the year. Give him a year there and he could be ready for the bigs.
23Jose Tabata, OF, Yankees (125)
2006 stats: [A] .298 BA/ .377 OBP/ .420 SLG
2006 Club: Charleston ETA in Majors: 2010 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
There are few prospects who elicit as much excitement as the Yankee outfielder. The Yankees can take their time with the teenager, though he may make it tough as he continues to figure things out.
24Josh Fields, 3B, White Sox (118)
2006 stats: [AAA] .305 BA/ .379 OBP/ .515 SLG [CWS] .150 BA/ .320 OBP/ .400 SLG
2006 Club: Charlotte/Chicago ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Fields is ready for the big leagues now, but there's no real spot for him right now. The former college QB is athletic enough to handle a move to the outfield if needed.
25Andy LaRoche, 3B, Dodgers (111)
2006 stats: [AA] .309 BA/ .419 OBP/ .483 SLG [AAA] .322 BA/ .400 OBP/ .550 SLG
2006 Club: Jacksonville/Las Vegas ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 29
The only slight concern about LaRoche at this point is his health. Look for his shoulders to be fine and for him to push Wilson Betemit at third sooner rather than later.
26Tim Lincecum, RHP, Giants (103)
2006 stats: 2-0, 1.71 ERA, 31.2 IP, 14 H, 12 BB, 58 K
2006 Club: Salem-Keizer/San Jose ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
If the Giants want to put him in the pen, he could help out next season. As a starter, it may take a little longer, but he's got nasty stuff either way.
27Fernando Martinez, OF, Mets (102)
2006 stats: [A] .333 BA/ .389 OBP/ .505 SLG [A+] .193 BA/ .254 OBP/ .387 SLG
2006 Club: GCL Mets/Hagerstown/St. Lucie ETA in Majors: 2010 2006 Pre-season: NR
The idea of Martinez and Tabata reaching New York at the same time almost seems too good to be true, but the Mets haven't been this excited about an outfielder in a while.
28Ian Stewart, 3B, Rockies (95)
2006 stats: [AA] .268 BA/ .351 OBP/ .452 SLG
2006 Club: Tulsa ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 16
This is a big year for the third baseman, as he needs to stay healthy and start producing again. If he doesn't, he could slide off of this list.
29Reid Brignac, SS, Devil Rays (83)
2006 stats: [A] .326 BA/ .382 OBP/ .557 SLG [AA] .300 BA/ .355 OBP/ .473 SLG
2006 Club: Visalia/Montgomery ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
The 20-year-old dominated the California League and hit well in Double-A as well, helping the Biscuits win a title. Short may not be his eventual home, but the Rays have an embarrassment of riches at this point.
30Luke Hochevar, RHP, Royals (79)
2006 stats: 0-1, 1.17 ERA, 15.1 IP, 8 H, 2 BB, 16 K
2006 Club: Burlington ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Some of the Royals' recent moves may ease the pressure on Hochevar. Still, he'll be ready to contribute with the rust completely shaken off
31Erick Aybar, SS, Angels (76)
2006 stats: [AAA] .283 BA/ .327 OBP/ .413 SLG
2006 Club: Salt Lake ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 49
Sometimes forgotten among the Angels stable of prospects, Aybar is the best defensive shortstop in the system and can run. The only issue is Orlando Cabrera standing in his way.
32Jarrod Saltalamacchia, C, Braves (66)
2006 stats: [AA] .230 BA/ .353 OBP/ .380 SLG
2006 Club: Mississippi ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 17
A subpar season probably bought the Braves another year. A return to Double-A might be in order, but when he rights himself it will be interesting to see what the Braves do with him and Brian McCann.
33James Loney, 1B, Dodgers (60)
2006 stats: [AAA] .380 AVG/ .426 OBP/ .546 SLG [LAD] .284 AVG/ .342 OBP/ .559 SLG
2006 Club: Las Vegas/Los Angeles ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
He may never hit for the power people thought he'd develop, but a guy who hits .380 in Triple-A is ready for the big leagues full-time. With Nomar in the way, perhaps a trade is in order.
34John Danks, LHP, Rangers (59)
2006 stats: 9-9, 4.24 ERA, 140.0 IP, 141 H, 56 BB, 154 K
2006 Club: Frisco/Oklahoma ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: 31
The Rangers' pitching prospects haven't all delievered as hoped, but Danks still has tremendous upside. He also reached Triple-A at age 21, so he's still way ahead of the curve.
35Yunel Escobar, SS, Braves (59)
2006 stats: [AA] .264 BA/ .361 OBP/ .346 SLG
2006 Club: Mississippi ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
His 2006 season wasn't all that exciting, leaving some to wonder what kind of future the Cuban actually had. Then he went and won the AFL batting title with a .407 average, bringing the buzz back.
36Jacoby Ellsbury, OF, Red Sox (58)
2006 stats: [A] .299 BA/ .379 OBP/ .418 SLG [AA] .308 BA/ .382 OBP/ .425 SLG
2006 Club: Wilmington/Portland ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
In his first full season, the Oregon State product jumped a level, won a title and went to the AFL. He could be the Red Sox's center fielder and leadoff hitter in the not-too-distant future.
37Hunter Pence, OF, Astros (54)
2006 stats: [AA] .283 BA/ .357 OBP/ .533 SLG
2006 Club: Corpus Christi ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
It was another hugely productive year for Pence, showing both power and surprising speed. He won a Texas League title to boot, and no one is saying his swing won't play at the upper levels anymore.
38Felix Pie, OF, Cubs (53)
2006 stats: [AAA] .283 BA/ .341 OBP/ .451 SLG
2006 Club: Iowa ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 21
It's easy to forget how young Pie is considering he's already spent a full year in Triple-A. He still needs to work on some things and will likely get another year to do so in Iowa with the acquisition of Alfonso Soriano.
39Chuck Lofgren, LHP, Indians (43)
2006 stats: 17-5, 2.32 ERA, 139.2 IP, 108 H, 54 BB, 125 K
2006 Club: Kinston ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Spending the year in the Carolina League largely because of the Indians' depth, Lofgren was arguably the best in the Class A Advanced circuit. He and Scott Lewis will move up as part of the next wave of young Tribe arms.
40Daric Barton, 1B, Athletics (41)
2006 stats: [AAA] .259 AVG/ .384 OBP/ .395 SLG
2006 Club: AZL Athletics/Sacramento ETA in Majors: 2008 2006 Pre-season Rank: 35
His freaky elbow injury didn't keep Barton from sliding too far on the list. Most think he'll return to form in 2007 with one of the better swings in the game.
41Adam Jones, OF, Mariners (37)
2006 stats: [AAA] .287 BA/ .345 OBP/ .484 SLG [SEA] .216 BA/ .237 OBP/ .311 SLG
2006 Club: Tacoma/Seattle ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
The transition from shortstop went exceedingly well as Jones' offensive game continued to develop at the same time. He got a taste of big league life in 2006; he'll be looking to stay there full-time next season.
42Clayton Kershaw, LHP, Dodgers (37)
2006 stats: 2-0, 1.95 ERA, 37.0 IP, 28 H, 5 BB, 54 K
2006 Club: GCL Dodgers ETA in Majors: 2010 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
A stirring debut has many thinking the Dodgers once again found a gem in this past draft. His ETA might be a touch conservative considering his polish and the Dodgers' willingness to move their pitchers fairly quickly.
43Blake DeWitt, 3B, Dodgers (32)
2006 stats: [A] .268 AVG/ .339 OBP/ .442 SLG [AA] .183 AVG/ .241 OBP/ .221 SLG
2006 Club: Vero Beach/Jacksonville ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
He didn't take off like some thought, but at least one scout still considered him an elite prospect. His stint in Hawaii didn't go too well, but most are still confident things will start clicking in soon.
44Jeff Clement, C, Mariners (32)
2006 stats: [AA] .288 AVG/ .386 OBP/ .525 SLG [AAA] .257 AVG/ .321 OBP/ .347 SLG
2006 Club: San Antonio/Tacoma ETA in Majors: 2008 2005 Final Rank: NR
What do you make of Clement's 2006? He did make it up to Triple-A, but he struggled with injuries and didn't perform well in Hawaii. With Kenji Johjima entrenched, there's no huge rush.
45Mark Rogers, RHP, Brewers (28)
2006 stats: 1-2, 4.92 ERA, 75.0 IP, 73 H, 55 BB, 101 K
2006 Club: AZL Brewers/Brevard County ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: 40
Before he got hurt, Rogers had a stretch where it appeared he was starting to figure things out. His stuff still grades out off the charts, but he'll have to prove he's healthy in 2007.
46Chris Volstad, RHP, Marlins (27)
2006 stats: 11-8, 3.08 ERA, 152.0 IP, 161 H, 36 BB, 99 K
2006 Club: Greensboro ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Like the Dodgers, the Marlins don't hesitate to move young pitchers aggressively. With some depth, there's no rush but based on Volstad's second half, he's a prime candidate for a 2007 breakout.
47Kevin Slowey, RHP, Twins (26)
2006 stats: 8-5, 1.88 ERA, 148.2 IP, 102 H, 22 BB, 151 K
2006 Club: Ft Myers/New Britain ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
If not for Matt Garza's leap to the big leagues, Slowey's remarkable first full season would've been the talk of the Twins system. The control artist should start next season in Triple-A waiting to help out.
48Jason Hirsh, RHP, Astros (23)
2006 stats: 13-2, 2.10 ERA, 137.1 IP, 94 H, 51 BB, 118 K
2006 Club: Round Rock/Houston ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
Hirsh followed up a breakout 2005 with an even-better 2006 in the hitter-friendly PCL. While his big league time didn't go as well as hoped, he still got to experience a playoff race and is ready for the bigs now.
49Kevin Kouzmanoff, 3B, Padres (23)
2006 stats: [AA] .389 AVG/.449 OBP/.660 SLG [AAA] .353 AVG/ .409 OBP/ .647 SLG
2006 Club: Akron/Buffalo/Cleveland ETA in Majors: 2007 2006 Pre-season Rank: NR
He's flown under the radar for most of his career, but all he's done is hit at every level. He'll try to do it full-time in the bigs with his new team in San Diego.
50Elvis Andrus, SS, Braves (22)
2006 stats: [A] .265 AVG/ .324 OBP/ .362 SLG
2006 Club: Rome ETA in Majors: 2009 2006 Pre-season Rank: 49
He's got a world of talent; it's only a matter of him developing them further. Look for him to do that over the course of the 2007 season
Least we got one guy in the top 50