Archive for Travis Harrison

Minnesota has turned its minor league system around is short order, thanks to strong drafts, outstanding scouting in the international markets and some trades. The organization now has one of the deepest systems in the game, as well as an enviable collection of power arms and exciting athletes.

#1 Byron Buxton (OF)

Buxton, the second overall selection in the 2012 draft, flashed his five-tool potential during his pro debut. An ultra-athletic player, he currently possesses plus speed with gap power but, according to a contact I spoke with, he should add more home runs as he matures as a hitter thanks, in part, to his incredible bat speed.  

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Readers who have followed me to FanGraphs from my previous site would be aware of my affinity for Colorado Rockies third base prospect Nolan Arenado. In four-plus years, he may be the best corner infield prospect I’ve seen in person. Cue Twins Travis Harrison and his uncanny resemblance to Arenado in a number of areas. To be clear, Travis Harrison is more a mini-version instead of equivalent talent. However, this is certainly not a slight as it firmly establishes the Twins prospect as at least a future regular at the big league level. And while Miguel Sano is considered by many prospect followers as the third baseman of the future in Minnesota, contacts tell me a move to right field is in the cards for the young Dominican leaving Harrison an intriguing option.

Video after the jump

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Seeing prospects in person is my passion. In 2012, I was fortunate enough to visit parks in five different leagues — collecting information and video on 200 legitimate prospects or more. The lists released over the next few weeks will highlight the best prospects I’ve seen in person at each position during the 2012 season. The rankings will be adjusted based on projected position at the major league level, not present position (in italics if ranking includes position shift). After writing the first three lists, I realized there’s really no way to keep statistical information out of the equation completely and focus on scouting/projection alone. This has caused me to hedge my bets a bit on high ceiling talents and focus more on the complete player. Additionally, understand this is not meant to be a complete list of the best prospects at each position across all of Minor League Baseball, but the best of what I’ve seen.

Previous Rankings:
The Catchers
The First Basemen
The Second Baseman

1. Mike Olt, Texas Rangers

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