The Atlanta Braves system has a few bigger names in the top half of the system, but the strength is in the depth. Things could look even better by the end of 2009 if a few of the sleepers wake up.

AAA/AA
Tommy Hanson has already been written about a fair bit around here. He had a breakout 2008 season during both the regular season and in the Arizona Fall League. He pitched at both High-A and Double-A with 70 hits allowed in 98 innings at the senior level. He also posted rates of 3.77 BB/9 and 10.47 K/9. The only thing that is keeping him from breaking camp with Atlanta is the veteran depth in the starting rotation. It’ll be a miracle if Tom Glavine throws 180 innings, so Hanson will get his shot sooner or later in 2009.

Jordan Schafer is moving in the opposite direction of Hanson. After the recent trade of center fielder Josh Anderson to Detroit, it appears as though Schafer has won the starting-day outfield gig in Atlanta, although the club has yet to confirm it. Schafer had an off year in 2008 by hitting just .269/.378/.471 with 10 home runs and 12 stolen bases in 297 Double-A at-bats. He has had a nice spring with a .373 average and five stolen bases. The 16 strikeouts in 17 games is a bit disturbing, though.

Brandon Hicks is a shortstop in the mold of former Cub Jose Hernandez: A powerful bat that will likely produce a low-ish average and a ton of strikeouts. The former third round draft pick is a better defender, although his size may eventually force him to third base if he remains a regular at the MLB level. Last season in High-A, Hicks batted .234/.335/.480 with 19 homers and 14 stolen bases in 342 at-bats. He also hit .241 in 54 Double-A at-bats.

A+/A
Cole Rohrbough played at two A-ball levels in 2008, but the southpaw still missed significant time due to injury. In 31.2 High-A innings, Rohrbough allowed just 27 hits and posted rates of 2.27 BB/9 and 7.96 K/9. His repertoire includes an 89-94 mph fastball, plus curve and change-up. He’s expected to be fully healthy this spring and should begin the year in High-A.

Another talented southpaw, Jeff Locke had a down year in A-ball in 2008. The 21-year-old hurler allowed 150 hits in 139.2 innings and posted rates of 2.45 BB/9 and 7.28 K/9, which was by far his lowest strikeout rate of his career. He has excellent control for his age and he has the potential to have three very good pitches, with a fastball that can touch 94 mph, a curveball and a change-up.

Outfielder Jason Heyward is a name you should remember in 2009. He had a solid first full season in the Majors after being a first-round pick out of high school in 2007, but he could blossom into a future superstar. The 19-year-old slugger hit .323/.388/.483 with 11 home runs and 15 stolen bases. He also earned 22 at-bats in High-A ball late in the year. Still in his teens, Heyward is an athletic 6’4” 220 lbs and his strong arm is well suited to right field.

Another talented outfielder, Gorkys Hernandez was obtained from Detroit in the Edgar Renteria trade, which also netted the club Jair Jurrjens. Hernandez does not have anywhere near the power that Heyward does, but he stole 20 bases in 2008 with his above-average speed. He struggled a bit in his first season in the organization and hit just .264/.348/.387 with five home runs. Hernandez, 21, also posted rates of 10.6 BB% and 19.5 K%. He needs to play small ball more consistently and he could be headed to a fourth-outfielder future in Atlanta because he’s not going to push Schafer out of center and he does not profile well in the corners.

Outside of Heyward, Freddie Freeman has the most impressive bat in the lower minors. The first base prospect had an exciting first full season in pro ball after being a second round draft pick out of high school in 2007. In A-ball, Freeman hit .316/.378/.521 with 18 homers and 95 RBI in 491 at-bats. He also posted rates of 8.6 BB% and 17.1 K%. Defensively, the left-handed hitter is above-average.

SS/R
Julio Teheran, 18, generated a lot of buzz in 2008 even before he threw a pitch in North America. Unfortunately, his 2008 season did not play out as planned due to shoulder problems which were luckily not deemed serious. Teheran allowed 18 hits in 15 innings in rookie ball and posted rates of 2.40 BB/9 and 10.40 K/9. He has a good fastball that can touch 93 mph, a potentially plus change-up and a developing curveball.

Randall Delgado, 19, showed very well in his North American debut. In 69 rookie ball innings, the right-hander allowed 63 hits and posted rates of 3.91 BB/9 and 10.57 K/9. He can hit 93 mph with his fastball and also has a good curveball and change-up.

Up Next: The Boston Red Sox

A number of prospects have risen swiftly though the system for the Jays in the past year. The club has also re-committed itself to finding prospects in Latin American, as well as Australia. The system is better than some think it is, but there is still a lot of work to be done. There are some interesting sleeper prospects in the low minors.

AAA/AA
The club has three southpaw starters that could see significant time in Toronto in 2009: Ricky Romero, Brad Mills, and Brett Cecil. All three received long looks this spring with Romero and Mills still under consideration for starting rotation spots. Romero, a former sixth overall draft pick out of college, has had a relatively disappointing career to this point, although he is making strides with his fastball command. He split 2008 between Double-A and Triple-A. Mills was selected in the 2007 draft as a college senior and he pitched at three levels last year and posted ERAs of 2.55, 1.35, and 1.10. Overall, he made 27 starts and succeeds by being aggressive and attacking the strike zone with average stuff. Cecil has an above-average repertoire for a southpaw and was a good college closer before being converted to a starter by the Jays. He needs to work on his fastball command but he could be ready by the middle of 2009. Cecil was slowed in 2008 by injuries but he still pitched at three levels and topped out in Triple-A.

Travis Snider should be considered an early favorite for the AL Rookie of the Year award, especially with fellow rookies Matt Wieters (Baltimore) and David Price (Tampa Bay) beginning the year in the minors (What a good year for rookies in the AL East). Snider, 21, will be the everyday left fielder for Toronto. He was slowed at the beginning of 2008 by a bum elbow but he still managed to play at three minor league levels before making a 24-game appearance in the Majors where he hit .301/.338/.466 with two homers in 73 at-bats. Snider likely won’t hit for a high average early in his career thanks to high strikeout totals (32 K% in 362 Double-A at-bats), but he should provide plenty of power and he is a better outfielder than many think.

J.P. Arencibia is another powerful bat for the Jays. The catcher was selected in the first round of the 2007 draft out of college and split last season between High-A and Double-A. He hit .315/.344/.560 in 248 at-bats before a promotion to Double-A, where he posted a line of .282/.302/.496 in 262 at-bats. Arencibia tied Wieters for home runs with 27 but drove in more runs with 105. The downside to his offensive game is that he walked just 18 times last year, including a walk rate of just 2.6 BB% in Double-A. Arencibia will have to improve upon his patience if he is going to be an impact player in the Majors. He has made significant strides in improving his defense.

Scott Campbell began his pro career as a second baseman but is penciled in at third base for the Triple-A club in 2009, which will help add to his versatility. The left-handed hitter cannot hit southpaws at all and he has limited power so his future is likely as a platoon infielder or bench player. Campbell’s defense at second base was nothing to write home about. Offensively, though, he skipped over High-A ball in 2008 to play at Double-A and had his best offensive season. The 24-year-old infielder hit .302/.398/.427 with nine home runs in 417 at-bats. He posted rates of 13.7 BB% and 15.1 K%.

A+/A
The left-handed Tim Collins is generously listed as 5’7” which is why he went undrafted out of high school. General manager J.P. Ricciardi’s father noticed the pitcher at a high school game and tipped off his son, which allowed the Jays to buy Collins, 19, away from a junior college offer late in 2007. Last season in A-ball, the southpaw used a plus curveball and average fastball to allowed just 36 hits in 68.1 innings of work. He also posted rates of 4.21 BB/9 and 12.91 K/9.

Yet another southpaw, Luis Perez was a late blooming Latin America prospect who did not come over to North America until he was 22. Although he started off very poorly at A-ball in 2008, Perez turned things around. He allowed 136 hits in 137.1 innings and posted rates of 3.34 BB/9 and 8.98 K/9. In 212.2 innings in North America, the Dominican hurler has allowed just four home runs and he induces a ton of ground balls, along with the healthy number of strikeouts.

Second baseman Brad Emaus opened some eyes in his first full season. Originally viewed as a future utility player in the Scott Spiezio mold, Emaus now looks like a future regular, whose offense could possibly be strong enough to warrant a move to third base. In 2008, Emaus hit .302/.380/.463 with 12 home runs and 12 stolen bases. The 23-year-old also played well in the Hawaii Winter Baseball league with a .333 average and 17 walks (with just seven strikeouts) in 81 at-bats.

David Cooper was the club’s 2008 first round draft pick out of college. Cooper, a first baseman, was considered a step below the Top 3 first sackers in the draft: Justin Smoak, Brett Wallace (now a full-time third baseman), and Yonder Alonso. Regardless, Cooper had a stunning debut and played at three levels, topping out in High-A ball. The left-handed hitter hit .300 or more at each level and batted .304/.373/.435 with one home run in 92 High-A at-bats. Cooper has the skill to bat .300 in the Majors but his power is no better than average for the position and he needs a fair bit of work on his defense.

Raw+Toolsy+Prep = Exactly the type of player Toronto historically avoided under general manager J.P. Ricciardi. Justin Jackson, though, represented a departure from that stance, and Toronto is glad it made the change. The athletic and gifted fielder is still raw but he has displayed some promising skills at the plate and on the base paths, as well as in the field. The 20 year old shortstop hit just .238/.340/.368 with seven homers and 17 stolen bases in 454 at-bats, but he was one of the better hitters on his A-ball club in the first half of the season before tiring in his first full pro season.

Eric Eiland is another raw high schooler who was signed in 2007, like Jackson. Eiland though did not join Jackson in A-ball until later in the season after beginning the year in extended spring training. Once he reached A-ball, Eiland hit .233/.334/.305 with 23 stolen bases in 249 at-bats. He needs to work on his approach at the plate after posting a strikeout rate of 32.1 K%. His walk rate was a reasonable 12.9%.

Kevin Ahrens was the club’s first pick of the 2007 draft out of a Texas high school but he has fallen down the depth chart below both Arencibia and Jackson, two players drafted after him. Ahrens, like Jackson, struggled mightily in the second half of his first full pro season. Overall, he hit .259/.329/.367 with five home runs in 460 at-bats. Defensively, he is still getting accustomed to manning third base after playing shortstop in high school.

SS/R
Antonio Jimenez and Carlos Perez highlight a deep crop of catchers in the lower levels of the system. Jimenez was selected out of a Puerto Rico high school during the 2008 draft, while Perez was a quiet Latin America signing in 2007. Jimenez appeared in just 19 games after signing and hit .191/.255/.234. His defense is considered ahead of his bat and he is very athletic for a catcher (He stole five bases in seven attempts). Perez opened some eyes in his first pro season in the Dominican Summer League in 2008 and hit .306/.459/.378 in 196 at-bats. He also walked 52 times with just 28 strikeouts. His defense is not as strong as Jimenez’ but he is good enough to remain behind the dish long term.

The organization significantly improved its middle infield depth with the 2008-09 signings of Gustavo Pierre, Garis Pena and Nick Bidois. Both Pierre and Pena were signed out of Latin America for six-figure contracts, while Bidois was inked out of Australia. All three teenagers will move slowly and Pierre had Tommy John surgery during the off-season.

Up Next: The Atlanta Braves

The New York Mets minor league system sits in the middle-of-the-pack talent wise. There is some depth, but there are a limited number of high-ceiling players. A lot of the top-level talent comes from players acquired during the 2008 draft.

AAA/AA
Jonathon Niese was drafted out of high school in the seventh round of the 2005 draft by the Mets and it looks like the move is about ready to pay off for the organization. The southpaw split the 2008 season between Double-A and Triple-A, while also making a three-game appearance at the Major League level. Niese spent most of the year in Double-A where he allowed 118 hits in 124.1 innings of work and posted rates of 3.18 BB/9 and 8.11 K/9. This spring, Niese has struggled with his command and control but he should be one of the first pitchers recalled if an injury strikes the starting rotation. He has an 87-91 mph fastball, plus curveball and change-up.

Bobby Parnell is another young pitcher who has a chance of impacting the Mets’ big-league roster in 2009. Parnell, though, is likely headed to the bullpen despite spending most of his pro career in the rotation. Like Niese, Parnell spent time at three levels in 2008 but spent the majority of his season in Double-A. The right-hander allowed 126 hits in 127.2 innings of work and posted rates of 4.02 BB/9 and 6.52 K/9. He made six appearances out of the bullpen for the Mets and posted a 5.40 ERA despite allowing just three hits in five innings. He is being considered for a bullpen spot this spring, even though his control has been below average. Parnell’s repertoire includes a fastball that can hit the upper 90s, a good slider and a change-up.

Eddie Kunz was nabbed by the Mets in the supplemental first round of the 2007 draft out of Oregon State University. Kunz was a desirable commodity because he was expected to be near-MLB ready after his college career but he has been inconsistent so far in pro ball, thanks in part to poor control. He did have a solid time in Double-A in 2008, though, and allowed just 39 hits in 48.1 innings. Kunz also posted rates of 4.66 BB/9 and 8.01 K/9. He struggled in brief stints at both Triple-A and the Majors and will continue to work on his control in the minors in 2009.

If you don’t know who Fernando Martinez is, then you haven’t been following the Mets’ minor league system for very long. The Dominican outfielder has been among the system’s top prospects since he came to North America in 2006 as a 17 year old. Martinez rose as high as Double-A at the age of 18 and has spent the last two (injury-filled) seasons at that level. He has just 588 at-bats at Double-A in two years. In 2008, Martinez hit .287/.340/.432 with eight home runs and six stolen bases. For his value to really skyrocket, he’ll need to add more power to his game, but he is still young. Defensively, if he continues fills out and lose a step or two, Martinez will likely move from center to left field. He should spend most of the year in Triple-A.

Nick Evans will be familiar to most Mets fans because he appeared in 50 games for the club in 2008, but retains his rookie eligibility because he had just 109 at-bats. He hit .257/.303/.404 with just two home runs. Evans, 23, played in the Majors earlier than anyone thought he would be after injuries struck the big league club. He’s likely headed back down to the minors to continue developing his game at Triple-A. Evans needs to learn to make use of his power more consistently in game situations, and he also needs to be more patient at the plate after walking just seven times in his debut (6.0 BB%).

A+/A
Wilmer Flores, 17, has the potential to be an outstanding player after hitting .310/.352/.490 in 245 rookie ball at-bats in 2008 as a 16-year-old shortstop. It was an even more impressive performance considering that it was his first year in North America too. The Venezuelan also earned a few at-bats in short-season ball and A-ball, which is where he will likely spend the 2009 season. Defensively, he should move off shortstop to third base in the next two seasons. Flores’ power should develop enough to make him an impact player at that position as well.

SS/R
Brad Holt is already being considered the steal of the 2008 draft, having been selected in the supplemental first round out of college. The right-hander posted a 1.87 ERA (2.62 FIP) with 43 hits allowed in 73.1 short-season innings. He also posted rates of 4.11 BB/9 and 11.94 K/9. Holt’s repertoire includes a fastball that can touch the high 90s but his secondary pitches – a slider and change-up – are lacking, which could cause him to struggle at higher levels. Holt will definitely begin the 2009 season in either High-A or possibly even Double-A.

Jenrry Mejia and Jefry Marte are two more impressive Latin-America finds for the Mets. Mejia, a right-handed starting pitcher, allowed 42 hits in 56.2 short-season innings in 2008. The 19 year old posted rates of 3.65 BB/9 and 8.26 K/9 and should begin 2009 in A-ball. Marte, 17, is a powerful third-base prospect who hit .325/.398/.532 with 14 doubles and four homers in 154 rookie ball at-bats last year. Defensively, he is athletic enough to remain at the hot corner long term.

Both Reese Havens and Ike Davis were selected out of college ahead of fellow 2008 draftee Holt but they both struggled. Havens, who could end up as a catcher or second baseman, struggled with injuries and failed to appear in a regular season game. Davis appeared in 58 games but was a huge disappointment by hitting just .256/.326/.326 with no home runs and just 17 RBI.

Up Next: The Toronto Blue Jays

The top four prospects in the organization will make you drool a little bit, but the system drops off significantly after that and lacks depth. Injuries have also taken quite a toll on a number of players in the system – especially pitchers.

AAA/AA
Obtained from Seattle for Erik Bedard, Chris Tillman’s results finally matched up to his stuff in 2008. The 20-year-old right-hander allowed just 115 hits in 135 Double-A innings. He posted rates of 4.31 BB/9 and 10.22 K/9. Once he improves his control, Tillman could establish himself as a solid No. 2 starter in the Majors with a repertoire that includes an 88-94 mph fastball, curveball and change-up.

Jake Arrieta has been a pleasant surprise for the Orioles and could develop into a reliable No. 3 starter. The right-hander fell in the 2007 draft after signability became a concern but the Orioles got him with a hefty deal for a fifth-round selection. He signed late and did not make his regular season debut until 2008 and he spent the entire year in High-A, although he deserved a promotion after about two months. Arrieta, 23, allowed just 80 hits in 113 innings of work and he posted rates of 4.06 BB/9 and 9.56 K/9. His fastball can touch 97 mph, and he also utilizes a slider, curveball and change-up.

I like David Hernandez more than most. He has the potential to be an excellent No. 4 starter. In 2008, the right-hander allowed just 112 hits in 141 innings in Double-A. He struggled with his control and posted a walk rate of 4.53 BB/9, but he also struck out more than 10 batters per nine innings for the second straight year: 10.60 K/9. Hernandez will open 2009 in Triple-A but could see the Majors sooner rather than later given the state of the Orioles’ starting rotation. He features a fastball that can touch 93 mph, as well as a slider and change-up.

After the Bedard trade, Kam Mickolio went from seldom-talked-about sleeper to Major Leaguer and intriguing prospect who could play a key role in 2009. The 6’9” pitcher played at three levels in 2008 and posted a 4.70 ERA in Double-A, a 1.80 ERA in Triple-A and a 5.87 ERA in the Majors (in 7.2 innings). The right-hander struck out a total of 71 batters in 66 innings and allowed 60 hits. Mickolio threw his fastball almost 82% of the time in the Majors and mixed in his slider. He can touch the mid-90s with the heater and could be in line for a set-up role in 2009.

The top player in the system and the best catching prospect in all of baseball, Matt Wieters is ready to play everyday in the Majors, even though 2008 was his first season in pro ball after signing late in 2007 as a first round draft pick out of college. He split the 2008 season between High-A and Double-A and dominated both levels with the bat, while showing above-average potential behind the dish. Wieters hit .365/.460/.625 with 12 homers in 208 Double-A at-bats. In total, he slugged 27 homers and drove in 89 runs in 437 at-bats. In order to delay his arbitration eligibility, Baltimore is expected to send Wieters down to Triple-A to begin the 2009 season but he should be back in May and could be a candidate for Rookie of the Year in the American League.

A+/A
Brandon Erbe has had an up-and-down career so far, but the good news is that he is just 21, despite beginning his fifth pro season. After a disappointing 2007 (6.26 ERA), Erbe returned to High-A ball in 2008 and pitched well. He allowed 120 hits in 150.2 innings of work and posted rates of 2.99 BB/9 and 9.02 K/9. He did, though, allowed 21 home runs, which was seven more than he allowed in 2007 (although he threw 31 more innings in ’08). Erbe needs to improve his change-up. He also features a fastball that can touch the mid-90s and a slider.

Bill Rowell was drafted ahead of fellow prep star Travis Snider in the first round of the draft in 2006. However, while Snider was making his MLB debut in 2008, Rowell was riding the buses in High-A ball. Overall, the 20-year-old hit just .248/.315/.368 with seven homers in 375 at-bats. Rowell has massive power potential but it has yet to show up in game situations. He has shown a lack of dedication to the game at times, which has hurt his development. Rowell needs to have a good season in 2009 and remain injury free.

Brandon Snyder’s prospect standing took a hit when he was unable to stay behind the plate and moved to first base in 2008. The 22-year-old former first round pick (2005) showed a little more power in 2008 than what was expected, but he still projects to have average-at-best power for a corner infielder. He spent 2008 in High-A ball and hit .315/.358/.490 with 33 doubles and 13 homers in 435 at-bats. Snyder is not a great defender at first base and he could end up in the outfield.

Nolan Reimold recovered from two sub-par seasons to have a very nice year in 2008 at Double-A. The power-hitting corner outfielder had a line of .284/.367/.501 with 25 homers in 507 at-bats. Reimold posted rates of 11.1 BB% and 16.2 K%%. Already 25, he will have a hard time breaking into the talented Orioles outfield, although he could take advantage of struggles by recently-acquired Felix Pie.

SS/R
Brian Matusz was the club’s first pick in the 2008 draft and he was considered one of the top two college pitchers available. The southpaw has yet to make his pro debut but he should begin 2009 in High-A ball. Matusz features a low-90s fastball, plus curveball, slider and change-up.

L.J. Hoes was another 2008 draft pick, although he was taken out of high school. The second baseman had a nice debut with the bat and hit .308/.416/.390 with 10 stolen bases. He posted rates of 15.9 BB% and 13.8 K% and could move quickly for a prep draft pick.

Up Next: The New York Mets

There are a few interesting prospects in the Phillies system, but it’s uninspiring for the most part thanks to lackluster drafts and some trades. My favorite player in the system, Adrian Cardenas, was used to obtain Joe Blanton from Oakland last season… but you can’t exactly find fault with how the year ended for the organization. I know Eric was mildly pleased.

AAA/AA
What to make of Carlos Carrasco? The soon-to-be 22-year-old hurler was having a pretty impressive minor league career until he visited Pennsylvania. The right-hander spent parts of two seasons at Double-A Reading, PA and his numbers were not good. Carrasco lost about 2.0 K/9 off his stats sheet over both seasons and his command/control regressed as well. Apparently, though, Triple-A suits him much better. After a promotion out Double-A last season, the Venezuelan posted a 1.72 ERA (2.19 FIP) in six starts. He allowed 37 hits in 36.2 innings and posted rates of 3.19 BB/9 and 11.29 K/9. It’s a good thing he doesn’t have to see Pennsylvania agai… Oh. Never mind.

Left-hander J.A. Happ rebounded from a poor season in Triple-A in 2007 and pitched well in both Triple-A and the Majors in 2008. The 26-year-old hurler has positioned himself to leave spring training with the big club this season, although his role could come in the bullpen or starting rotation. Last season, Happ allowed just 116 hits in 135 innings of work in Triple-A. He also posted rates of 3.20 BB/9 and 10.07 K/9. Not overpowering, he benefits from deception on his 88-91 mph fastball. Happ also has a good change-up and a slider.

Watch out, Ruiz, Paulino, and Coste. Catcher Lou Marson is about a half season away from becoming the No. 1 catcher on the Phillies. The right-handed hitter has improved offensively each season in the minors and had a solid year in Double-A in 2008. He hit .314/.433/.416 with a .102 ISO in 322. Right now, the biggest hole in his offensive game is the lack of power. Marson will take more than his fair share of walks (17.4 BB%) although he strikes out a bit too much (21.7 K%). He is solid but not spectacular behind the plate and his arm is not very strong, although he threw out more than 35% of base stealers in 2008.

A number of teams showed interest in trading for shortstop Jason Donald last season, but the Phillies hung on to him. Playing in Double-A, the infielder hit .300 for the season for a second straight year, with a complete line of .307/.391/.497 with 14 homers and 11 stolen bases in 362 at-bats. Donald walked 11.5% of the time, and posted a strikeout rate of 23.8%. He needs to show more power in-game if he is going to move to third base, a likely destination given his below-average skills at shortstop. The 24-year-old could also end up as an offensive-minded utility player.

A+/A
Son of Doug, Kyle Drabek is a former first round draft pick out of high school. The right-hander’s career has been slowed by injuries and he had Tommy John surgery in 2007. Drabek returned in 2008 and showed much of his old self. In A-ball, he allowed just 11 hits in 20.1 innings, while walking six and striking out 10. His fastball can touch 95 mph, and he also features a good curveball and a developing change-up. Drabek’s lack of maturity is a concern.

Outfielder Dominic Brown is loaded with potential, but he is still scratching the surface on his baseball skills. He had a solid season in 2008 at A-ball by posting a line of .291/.382/.417 with 22 stolen bases in 444 at-bats. Brown posted good rates: 12.6 BB% and 16.2 K%. After getting caught stealing bases seven times in 29 attempts, he needs to improve his reads. Because he projects as a right fielder, the 21-year-old needs to show more power after hitting just nine homers last year with an ISO of .126. Keep an eye on Brown in 2009; he is a top candidate for a breakout season.

Michael Taylor had his breakout season in 2008. He wasn’t young for his leagues last year, though, and is entering 2009 as a 23-year-old prospect likely headed to Double-A. He split 2008 between A-ball and High-A. At the senior level he hit .329/.380/.560 with nine homers in 243 at-bats. In total, Taylor slugged 19 homers and stole 15 bases. The 6’6” 255 lbs outfielder needs to show a little more patience at the plate after walking just 7.3% of the time. His strikeout rate of 18.9% was reasonable for a power hitter. He has a strong arm but is just an average corner outfielder. Taylor still has some holes in his game so it will be interesting to see how he fares in Double-A in 2009.

Catcher Travis D’Arnaud was drafted out of high school in 2007 in the supplemental first round. He was considered a good defensive player, who might struggle with the bat. After 2008, though, it appears the 20-year-old could develop into an average hitter – at worst. D’Arnaud spent most of the season in extended spring training and short-season ball where he hit .309/.371/.463 with four homers in 175 at-bats. He received a late-season promotion to A-ball and hit .297 in 64 a-bats.

SS/R
Zach Collier was a 2008 supplemental first round draft pick out of high school. The 18-year-old hit better than expected in his rookie ball debut with a line of .271/.347/.357. He did not hit a home run in 129 at-bats, but he stole five bases. Collier could open the year in A-ball, if he has a good spring.

Up Next: The Baltimore Orioles

There is not a ton of depth in the upper levels of the system, but there are some impressive bats on the way – with one that could develop into a superstar. The Yankees organization, though, always seems to be able to squeeze every ounce of potential out of its prospects, as long as they remain healthy.

AAA/AA
Alfredo Aceves and Phil Coke both made good impressions with the Yankees last season despite receiving little-if-any hype prior to the 2008 season, as both would have been lucky to be described as No. 5 starter candidates. Right-hander Aceves, 26, posted a 2.40 ERA in 30 innings, although his FIP told a different story at 4.80. He allowed just 25 hits but his strikeout rate was rather low at 4.80 K/9 and his walk rate was a respectable 3.00. Aceves’ repertoire includes a fastball that sits around 91 mph, as well as a cutter, change-up and curveball. Left-hander Coke took to the bullpen in his MLB debut and posted an ERA of 0.61 in 14.2 innings. His FIP was far more favorable at 1.63. The 26-year-old hurler allowed eight hits, while posting rates of 1.23 BB/9 and 8.59 K/9. Both players could be useful MLB pitchers, but their ceilings are limited.

Mark Melancon has fully recovered from Tommy John surgery and he flew threw the minor league system while playing at three levels in 2008, including his final stop at Triple-A. At the senior level, Melancon allowed just 11 hits in 20 innings pitched. He also walked just four with 22 strikeouts. In total, the right-hander allowed 69 hits in 95 innings. Impressively, his strikeout rate rose during each promotion and topped out at 9.90 K/9 in Triple-A. Melancon, 23, is in a perfect position to help out in New York in 2009.

Arguably the Yankees’ best prospect, outfielder Austin Jackson is still raw in many facets of his game, but his tools and potential are undeniable. Only 22, he had a solid season in Double-A last year with a line of .285/.354/.419 with nine homers and 19 stolen bases in 520 at-bats. He also posted rates of 9.7 BB% and 21.7 K%. He didn’t run a lot last year and he also does not have a ton of home run power in his bat. That said, he is a solid all-around player who does a little bit of everything and plays above-average defense. Jackson could very be patrolling center field for the Yankees before the end of 2009.

A+/A
He’s moved along slowly but Dellin Betances is still only 20 (soon to be 21), having been drafted out of high school in 2006. The right-hander is loaded with potential but he has been bitten by the injury bug a fair bit in his young career. Betances threw well last year in A-ball by allowing just 87 hits in 115.1 innings of work, with rates of 4.60 BB/9 and 10.53 K/9. He also allowed just nine home runs (0.70 HR/9). The injuries have slowed his development of a change-up but his fastball can touch 97 mph and his curveball is a plus pitch at times. He could split 2009 between High-A and Double-A if he’s healthy all year.

Zach McAllister is another promising but raw young pitcher. He was also taken in the 2006 draft and five rounds higher than Betances. Despite that fact, McAllister is not as flashy as his system-mate and has a lower ceiling. His fastball can hit 94 mph, but he pitches more to contact and lacks a reliable out-pitch. Both his change-up and curveball are still in the developmental stages. Last season, he split the year between two A-ball affiliates. In High-A, he allowed 74 hits in 88.2 innings and posted rates of 1.32 BB/9 and 6.29 K/9.

Jesus Montero has the potential to be a monster offensive player in the big leagues. He’s only 19 and will be playing at High-A ball in 2009. Last season in A-ball, Montero hit .326/.376/.491 with 17 home runs and 87 RBI in 525 at-bats. He walked just 6.6% of the time and posted a strikeout rate of 15.8 K%, which is excellent for a young power hitter. Montero’s defense behind the plate has improved, but it’s still below average and there are not many people who think he’ll remain a catcher for longer. He could be in New York in 2010, especially if it’s at 1B, DH or LF.

Austin Romine could soften the blow if Montero has to move off catcher. The 20-year-old held his own in his first full season in A-ball. Considered more advanced with the glove than the bat, Romine hit .300/.344/.437 with 10 home runs in 407 at-bats. He posted rates of 5.8 BB% and 13.8 K%. Romine will likely split time behind the dish with Montero again in 2009.

Brad Suttle is a solid third-base prospect, but he lacks the traditional power expected from the hot corner. Regardless, he has a lot of potential and should hit for a solid average with 15-20 home runs while playing good defense. In his first full season, Suttle hit .271/.348/.456 with 11 home runs in 377 at-bats.

SS/R
Arodys Vizcaino, 18, had an impressive showing in rookie ball in 2008. The right-hander possesses a fastball that can touch the mid-90s, as well as a curveball that shows plus potential. The downside to Vizcaino, though, is that he’s only 6’0”… although some reports have him reaching 6’2” now, which would definitely work in his favor. Andrew Brackman was given a boatload of money to sign out of college in 2007 as a first-round draft pick but he immediately had Tommy John surgery and has yet to pitch in the regular season. The 6’10” hurler should make his regular season debut in A-ball in 2009.

Jeremy Bleich, 21, was the club’s top pick in 2008 and he appeared in just one game after signing. The southpaw has a solid three-pitch mix, which includes a fastball that can hit the low 90s and two solid secondary pitches: a curveball and change-up. He’ll likely open 2009 in A-ball and could move quickly.

Up Next: The Philadelphia Phillies

Without a doubt, the bats are the strength of this system, and the arms are a weakness, which is a bit worrisome. With the possible exception of one pitcher, there really are not any prospects with No. 1 or 2 starter potential in the top half of the system… and you’d have to look pretty hard in the bottom half as well.

AAA/AA
Ryan Tucker had a sparkling 1.58 ERA in Double-A in 2008 but his FIP was ‘just’ 3.24. He allowed 64 hits in 91 innings of work and posted rates of 3.66 BB/9 and 7.32 K/9. That earned him a jump from Double-A to the Majors where he struggled. Tucker allowed 46 hits in 37 innings and struggled with his command by posting a walk rate of 5.59 BB/9. He showed a healthy fastball at an average of 93.5 mph, but he used just two pitches most of the time, which isn’t going to cut it in the Majors if he’s going to be a starter (He started six out of his 13 games). Tucker used a change-up more than 20 percent of the time, but he went to his breaking ball less than nine percent of the time.

Jose Ceda was picked up from the Cubs in the off-season for reliever Kevin Gregg. Although Gregg has experience as a closer, Ceda has far better stuff and could easy become the Marlins closer at some point. The 22-year-old hurler, who has battled some injuries this spring, has a fastball ball that sits in the mid-to-high 90s and can touch 100 mph. He also has a solid slider and a poor change-up. Last season, after beginning the year as a starter in High-A ball, Ceda moved to the pen in Double-A and allowed 26 hits in 30.1 innings. He also posted rates of 4.15 BB/9 and 12.46 K/9. He’s at least half a year away from contributing in Florida.

Outfielder Cameron Maybin was the key player obtained from the Detroit Tigers for Miguel Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis and he had a respectable first full season in the Marlins system in 2008. He hit .277/.375/.456 with 13 homers and 21 stolen bases in Double-A. While he walked a respectable amount at 13.3 BB%, strikeouts continued to be an issue with a rate of 31.8 K%. Maybin received a short call-up to the Majors and hit .500 (16-for-32). He should be the everyday center fielder for the big league club in 2009, but may have some growing pains due to his high strikeout totals.

Gaby Sanchez should be the club’s starting first base in 2009, although he has had a poor spring to this point. The 25-year-old had an excellent season in Double-A in 2008 when he hit .314/.404/.513 with 42 doubles and 17 homers. He also posted rates of 12.6 BB% and 14.6 K%. He also hit .375 in five MLB games. Sanchez’ window of opportunity may be narrow with Logan Morrison entering Double-A in 2009.

With current Marlins second baseman Dan Uggla quickly pricing himself out of town, Chris Coghlan could be next in line for the job. In 2008 at Double-A, the prospect hit .298/.396/.429 with 34 stolen bases in 483 at-bats. He also walked more than he struck out (67-65). A third baseman in college, Coghlan is at least an average fielder at second base, which is more than what can be said for Uggla.

A+/A
The best pitching prospect in the system, Sean West is probably still a year away from being able to help the Marlins. The 22-year-old southpaw spent 2008 in High-A ball and allowed 79 hits in 100.2 innings of work. He posted rates of 5.36 BB/9 and 8.23 K/9. West struggled with his control last year after missing all of 2007 because of shoulder surgery. Even after the surgery, he can touch 96 mph and also has a slider and change-up in his repertoire.

First baseman Logan Morrison had a monster season in a good pitcher’s league in 2008. The 21-year-old slugger hit .332/.402/.494 with 38 doubles and 13 homers in 488 High-A ball at-bats. His homer total dropped by 11 from 2007, but the doubles increased by 16. Morrison has better plate awareness than most sluggers, with 2008 rates of 10.5 BB% and 16.4 K%. He was named MVP of his league. Defensively, Morrison has limited range but he possesses a strong arm for a first baseman.

Outfielder Michael Stanton has even more potential than Morrison, but he’s also a higher-risk player. Stanton, only 19, hit .293/.381/.611 with 39 homers in 468 A-ball at-bats in 2008. That power came with a strikeout rate of 32.7 K%, as well as a walk rate of 11.0 BB%. Obviously, that strikeout rate will not lead to a good average in the higher levels of the minors so Stanton will have to make some adjustments to avoid becoming Russell Branyan. Defensively, Stanton is an average fielder in right.

With Morrison and Stanton ahead of him, it’s easy to forget about Matt Dominguez, who was the club’s No. 1 draft pick in 2007 out of a California high school. While Dominguez’ numbers are not as eye-popping as the other two players’, he did have a solid first full season in A-ball, where he hit .296/.354/.499 with 18 homers in 345 at-bats. He also posted rates of 7.5 BB% and 19.7 K%. Dominguez is an excellent defensive third baseman.

SS/R
Kyle Skipworth was selected sixth overall out of a California high school but his just .208/.263/.340 in his debut in rookie ball. Considered the best catcher in the draft, Skipworth still has a long way to go with the bat and he posted rates of 7.6 BB% and 28.9 K%. Defensively, the catcher is solid and he threw out 36 percent of runners in his debut. He should move up to A-ball in 2009.

Up next: The New York Yankees

The Texas Rangers organization has arguably the best system in all of Major League Baseball, thanks to astute trades and solid drafting practices. The club could hand the starting-catcher chores to one of its impressive rookies this season, and fans could finally get glimpses of two of the key trading chips received from Atlanta in the Mark Teixeira deal.

AAA/AA
Right-hander Neftali Feliz was part of the Teixeira deal with Atlanta. The 20-year-old split his first full season in Texas between High-A and Double-A. At the senior level, Feliz allowed 34 hits in 45.1 innings of work and posted rates of 4.57 BB/9 and 9.33 K/9. In total, he struck out 153 batters in 127.1 innings in 2008. Feliz features a 91-96 mph fastball that can touch triple digits, as well as a good curveball and change-up. Once he improves his command, Feliz could be an absolute monster on the mound – if the Texas pitching curse doesn’t get him.

Southpaw Derek Holland doesn’t throw quite as hard as Feliz, but he rocketed through three minor league levels in his first full pro season after being drafted in 2006 (He was signed as a draft-and-follow prior to the 2007 draft). Holland spent the majority of the season in A-ball and allowed 77 hits in 93.2 innings of work. He posted rates of 2.79 BB/9 and 8.74 K/9. He also made five starts in High-A and four starts in Double-A. The 22-year-old hurler can touch 96 mph with his fastball but he’s really a one-pitch pitcher at this point. Holland’s change-up is usually pretty good but his slider needs a lot of work.

Taylor Teagarden and Max Ramirez could both see time behind the dish for the Rangers in 2009. Teagarden is the far superior defensive catcher, but Ramirez (who could end up at 1B or DH) is the better all-around hitter. Teagarden’s biggest issue is the lack of consistent contact, although he has above-average power when he connects with the ball. Ramirez has a chance to hit .300 in the Majors with 20 home runs. With Jarrod Saltalamacchia playing well this spring and veteran Adam Melhuse also hitting well, both Ramirez and Teagarden could be headed for some extra work in Triple-A.

Julio Borbon could be a long-term fixture in center field for the Rangers. Drafted in the supplemental first round in 2007 out of college, he split 2008 between High-A and Double-A. At his second stop, Borbon hit .337/.380/.459 with 17 stolen bases in 255 at-bats. In total, he nabbed 53 bases in his first full season. Borbon still needs to tweak his approach at the plate as he walked just 5.2% of the time, which is too low for a lead-off hitter. He also has just enough power to mess with his mind, which causes him to over-swing and move away from the slash-and-run mentality that he should have.

There has been talk that Elvis Andrus, 20, could be the opening day shortstop for the Rangers. Like Feliz, Andrus was obtained from the Braves in the Teixeira trade. He spent all of 2008 in Double-A where he hit .295/.350/.367 with 54 stolen bases in 482 at-bats. Like his second-half teammate Borbon, Andrus has a ton of speed but he does not walk enough, after posting a rate of 7.3 BB%. Defensively, he has the makings of an above-average infielder, but he made more than 30 errors in 2008. In 17 games this spring, Andrus is hitting .250, which is about what the Rangers should expect from him at the MLB level in 2009. Veteran Omar Vizquel was brought in this past winter as a free agent, which could buy Andrus some more development time in Triple-A.

A+/A
A solid two-way player in high school, Michael Main was allowed to pitch and hit in his 2007 pro debut. However, the Rangers organization had him focus on pitching in 2008 in short-season ball. The now 20-year-old right-hander was slowed at the beginning of last year by a cracked rib but he still pitched well in the second half of the season in A-ball. Main allowed 38 hits in 45.1 innings, along with rates of 2.58 BB/9 and 9.93 K/9. His fastball can touch 96 mph and he also features a curveball and change-up.

The club’s 2008 first-round draft pick, Justin Smoak managed to get in just 14 games last year after signing. The 22-year-old switch-hitter slugged three home runs in 54 at-bats and batted .304 in A-ball. Smoak also hit well in the Arizona Fall League, with an average above .300. He should open 2009 in High-A ball and could see the Majors by the end of 2010. He is at least an average defender at first base.

Engel Beltre was acquired from Boston in the 2007 deal for closer Eric Gagne. The deal went sour for Texas after the organization foolishly chose Kason Gabbard over Michael Bowden but Beltre could help fans forget that fact. The athletic outfielder hit .283 with 31 stolen bases in A-ball in 2008, but his plate discipline is terrible and he posted a walk rate of 2.6 BB% in 566 at-bats (15 walks vs 105 strikeouts). That approach is obviously not going to cut it at the upper levels of the minors, or the Majors, but Beltre is just 19-years-old and has plenty of time to improve the rougher aspects of his game.

SS/R
Martin Perez, 17, spent 2008 in short-season ball and allowed 66 hits in 61.2 innings of work, along with rates of 4.09 BB/9 and 7.74 K/9. The southpaw can touch 94 mph with his fastball and is working hard to improve his curveball, which has plus potential, and his nascent change-up. He should move up to A-ball as an 18 year old for 2009.

Neil Ramirez was one of the Rangers’ supplemental first-round picks in the 2007 draft. He signed late and did not make his pro debut until 2008 as a 19 year old. The right-handed hurler allowed just 25 hits in 44 innings of work. He had a hard time finding the plate at times with a walk rate of 5.93 BB/9, but he also posted a strikeout rate of 10.64 K/9. Ramirez can touch 95 mph with his fastball and he also has a solid curveball and change-up.

Up Next: The Florida Marlins

Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Once the champion of in-house talent development, the Los Angeles Dodgers farm system has crumbled to become one of the 10 worst in the Majors entering 2009. According to Baseball America, the system was sixth overall in both 2007 and 2008, as well as second overall in 2004-2006. Now the publication ranks them 23rd, while Kevin Goldstein at Baseball Prospectus ranks the minor league system 21st overall. Personally, I would probably have them ranked around the 23rd-25th best system in the Majors.

AAA/AA
James McDonald doesn’t have the highest ceiling (probably a No. 3 starter) but the right-hander is ready for the Majors and could break in as either a reliever or starter – depending on the big club’s needs. He had a solid 2008 season in Double-A with 98 hits allowed in 118.2 innings of work. He also posted rates of 3.49 BB/9 and 8.57 K/9. Those numbers were good enough to earn McDonald, 24, a promotion to Triple-A where he allowed 17 hits in 22.1 innings with 28 strikeouts and seven walks. He also appeared in four regular season games with Los Angeles and did not allow a run in six innings. McDonald features an 88-93 mph fastball, a plus curveball and a change-up.

The club’s 17th overall selection from the 2004 draft, Scott Elbert’s career has been slowed by injuries. The 23-year-old made just three starts in 2007 and underwent labrum surgery. The southpaw had solid minor league numbers prior to that, although control has always been an issue (career 5.0 BB/9). He spent 2008 as a reliever and allowed just 22 hits in 41.1 Double-A innings. Elbert also posted rates of 4.35 BB/9 and 10.02 K/9. He received a late-season call-up to Los Angeles and posted a 12.00 ERA in 10 games (six innings). Elbert features a fastball that sits in the low 90s and can touch 95 mph, as well as a curveball and good change-up.

Josh Lindblom was the club’s second-round pick in the 2008 draft and he finished the season with a start in Double-A. In eight A-ball starts, Lindblom posted a 1.86 ERA and allowed 14 hits in 29 innings, along with 33 strikeouts and just four walks. A college closer, the right-hander was shifted to the starting rotation in pro ball and is expected to remain there in 2009, although his future MLB role is up in the air. Lindblom features an 88-94 mph fastball, as well as a slider, splitter and change-up.

The club’s top hitting prospect, Andrew Lambo climbed to Double-A late in 2008 after a solid showing in A-ball, where he hit .288/.346/.462 in 472 at-bats. He also posted rates of 8.0 BB% and 23.3 K%. In eight Double-A games, the left-handed outfielder hit .389. Only 20, Lambo appeared in the Arizona Fall League after the 2008 season and hit .313. Defensively, he is average as an outfielder with an arm that restricts him to left field. Lambo played first base in high school, but the presence of James Loney at the Major League level will probably keep him from manning that position for the Dodgers. He’ll likely open 2009 back in Double-A and could be a middle-of-the-order threat in Los Angeles by 2010.

Shortstop Ivan DeJesus looked poised to spend some time in Los Angeles in 2009 – even with the resigning of veteran Rafael Furcal. However, the Puerto Rican received even more bad news when he broke his leg this spring. DeJesus is expected to miss the entire season. On the plus side, DeJesus is just 21 years old so he has plenty of time to re-establish himself. In 2008, the right-handed hitter had a line of .324/.419/.423 with 16 stolen bases in 463 at-bats. DeJesus is an above-average defender, although he can make silly errors at time.

A+/A
Chris Withrow, 19, was the club’s No. 1 draft pick in 2008 out of high school. Unfortunately, he appeared in just four games in 2008 due to a bad elbow. It did not require surgery and he is expected to be back at full health in 2009 after pitching during the off-season. His fastball sits in the low 90s and touched 98 mph in his debut. Withrow also has a curveball and change-up.

Josh Bell was yet another prospect in the system whose 2008 season was cut short due to injury. The third baseman hit .273/.373/.455 with six home runs in 187 at-bats in High-A ball. He also posted rates of 14.2 BB% and 29.9 K% before a knee injury knocked him out for the remainder of the season. Bell has massive power potential, although that has yet to fully develop in-game. The 22-year-old switch hitter is expected to be healthy in 2009 and should returned to High-A ball.

SS/R
Drafted 15th overall out of high school in 2008, Ethan Martin was bitten by the injury bug affecting many of the top prospects in the system last season. Before making his first pro appearance, he injured his knee but is expected to be healthy in 2009. The right-handed pitcher is a solid athlete and also received first-round consideration as a hitter. As a pitcher, though, Martin can touch 96 mph with a plus curveball. His change-up needs a lot of work.

Shortstop Devaris Gordon and third baseman Pedro Baez both had solid seasons in short-season ball. Gordon, 20, hit .331/.371/.430 with 18 stolen bases in 251 at-bats. He has the potential to be an above-average defender. Baez began the year in A-ball but hit just .178 in 185 at-bats. Only 20 at the time, it was not a huge step back for him to go back to rookie ball. Baez hit .267/.317/.502 with 12 home runs in 247 at-bats and will return to A-ball in 2009.

Up Next: The Texas Rangers

Surprise, surprise, the Oakland Athletics organization is loaded with young talent. Although the club has had modest results from its recent drafts, General Manager Billy Beane has done an amazing job of picking up talent from other organizations in exchange for more expensive veterans.

AAA/AA
Brett Anderson and Gio Gonzalez are two talented, young southpaws that have very good opportunities to spend significant time in the A’s rotation in 2009. Anderson was obtained from the Diamondbacks in the Dan Haren trade, while Gonzalez was acquired from the White Sox in the Nick Swisher deal. Last season, Anderson split his time between High-A and Double-A. At the senior level, he allowed 27 hits in 31 innings of work and posted rates of 2.61 BB/9 and 11.03 K/9. Gonzalez spent the year in Triple-A and and allowed 106 hits in 123 innings. He also posted rates of 4.46 BB/9 and 9.37 K/9. Gonzalez made his MLB debut in 2008, but struggled with 32 hits and 25 walks allowed in 34 innings.

Trevor Cahill was drafted by the A’s out of high school in 2006 in the second round. The right-hander has moved quickly through the system and played at both High-A and Double-A in 2008. Cahill, 21, allowed 52 hits in 87.1 High-A innings, before moving up and allowing 24 hits in 37 Double-A innings. He also posted rates of 4.62 BB/9 and 8.03 K/9 at the higher level. Obviously, Cahill needs to improve his control a bit, but he has a solid repertoire: an 88-93 mph fastball, good curve and change-up.

Another A’s draft pick, Vince Mazzaro, 22, does not get as much press as some of the other arms in the system but the former third-round pick out of high school has a chance to be a solid starting pitcher in the Majors. The right-hander split 2008 between Double-A and Triple-A. He posted a 1.90 ERA in Double-A with 115 hits allowed in 137.1 innings. Mazzaro, who allowed just three homers, also posted rates of 2.36 BB/9 and 6.82 K/9. At Triple-A, he allowed 49 hits in 33.2 innings and should return to that level to begin 2009. Mazzaro has an 89-94 mph fastball, change-up and slider.

James Simmons was a first-round draft pick out of college in 2007 who spent his first full season in pro ball in Double-A with OK results. His ERA was good at 3.51 (and a 3.26 FIP) but he allowed 150 hits in 136 innings of work. Simmons, 22, also posted rates of 2.12 BB/9 and 7.94 K/9 with 11 home runs allowed (0.73 HR/9). Right now, he looks like a reliever with a reliable two-pitch repertoire: an 88-92 mph fastball and solid change-up. If he can improve his slider, Simmons may develop into a No. 3 or 4 starter.

Outfielder Aaron Cunningham, 22, was another piece of the prospect pie that was obtained for Haren. Scouts are mixed on his future potential; some see him as a future regular, while others feel he lacks the range for center and the power for the corner, making him an ideal fourth outfielder. The A’s organization is content to take a wait-and-see approach with Cunningham, who had a solid 2008 season and made his Major League debut. At Double-A, he hit .317/.386/.507 in 347 at-bats. He then hit .382 in 76 Triple-A at-bats and .250 in 80 MLB at-bats.

Adrian Cardenas was the key player obtained in the Joe Blanton trade with Philadelphia last season. The second baseman is not the best defensive player but he has a bright future as a hitter. The 21-year-old is a former supplemental first round draft pick who hit well in High-A in 2008, and also during a brief stint in Double-A at the end of the season. In 261 at-bats in High-A for the Phillies, Cardenas hit .307/.371/.441 with 16 stolen bases and four homers. Cardenas projects to hit for more power, which will be important if he needs to move off of second base to third base.

A+/A
Fautino de los Santos had a breakout season in 2007 and was a key player in the deal with Chicago for Swisher. Unfortunately, he required Tommy John surgery not long after the trade and missed most of the 2008 season. Now 23, de los Santos is expected to return in May or June. Before the injury, the right-hander could touch 97 mph and also featured a slider, curve and change-up.

A former supplemental first round pick out of the University of Virginia, Sean Doolittle has exceeded expectations so far in his career. A first baseman, the left-handed hitter was thought to have average power at best for his position. However, he slugged 40 doubles and 24 home runs between High-A and Double-A in 2008, although he was aided by some good-hitting leagues and stadiums. Doolittle also struck out 153 times in 535 at-bats. He hit .305 in 334 High-A at-bats but the average dipped to .254 in 201 Double-A at-bats.

Another first baseman, Chris Carter was also obtained from Arizona in the Haren deal. Power is the name of his game, after drilling 63 home runs in the past two seasons, including 39 last year in High-A ball. Carter hit .259/.361/.569 with rates of 13.2 BB% and 30.8 K% in 506 at-bats. The 22-year-old’s biggest issue is making contact, but few hitters can match his raw strength.

Jemile Weeks was the club’s No. 1 draft pick in 2008 and is the brother of Milwaukee’s Rickie Weeks. The A’s can only hope that Jemile will have more luck reaching his potential. He appeared in just 19 games after signing but hit .297 and stole six bases. Speed is a key component to the second baseman’s game. Only 5’9”, Weeks has above-average power for his size and could hit 10-15 homers.

SS/R
Michael Inoa was the top prize in this past season’s international signing period. Only 17, Inoa is already 6’7” and features a fastball that can touch 94 mph, as well as a splitter, curveball and change-up. He has yet to make his pro debut and will likely spend the first half of the season in extended spring training before opening the year in rookie ball in June.

Up Next: The Los Angeles Dodgers