Think Blue

Obsessing over the Dodgers' minor league system so you don't have to.

Sunday, January 01, 2006

New year

After watching a giant ball glide down a pole in a pre-recorded telecast and recovering from some really bad champagne, I've decided to do something new. I'll be sharing my thoughts on the Dodgers, focusing heavily on prospects. So to get things started, I'll post my Top 10 list...

1. Joel Guzman, SS
His numbers werent as good as his breakout season in 2004, but the immense raw power is still there. And while the safe bet is he'll move off shortstop in the near future, he can hold it down defensively.

2. Chad Billingsley, RHP
The potential ace the Dodgers have been looking for, Chad has pure power stuff with an explosive mid 90's fastball, two plus breaking balls and a strong build. Look for C Bill to come out of Spring Training with the #5 starting job under his belt.

3. Andy LaRoche, 3B
LaRoche broke out in a big way in '05, smacking 30 Homeruns overall between Vero Beach and Jacksonville. Dont let the signing of Bill Mueller fool you; Andy is the 3B of the future.

4. Jon Broxton, RHP
After a strong first half spent in the rotation, "The Bull" moved to the bullpen and started touching triple digits with his heater. As a starter, he profiles as a strong #2 or #3, but as a closer, he could turn into one of the best in the game.

5. Russ Martin, C
Scouts and coaches love his patience at the plate and leadership qualities. The Dodgers will have a delightful dilemna on their hands when Russ joins Dioner Navarro in LA.

6. Greg Miller, LHP
Sure he hasnt been healthy, but mid 90s fastballs dont lie. If he can find a consistent and painless arm slot, he should be back to his dominant form of 2003.

7. Matt Kemp, OF
Along with Vero Beach teammate Andy LaRoche, Kemp broke onto the prospect scene in 2005 with his impressive power displays. Kemp's 20 HR / 20 SB season shows a promising future for this potential 5 tool star.

8. Scott Elbert, LHP
Elbert's easy arm action and low 90s fastball led him to an impressive season at Low A Columbus. Though he walked nearly 4.5 batters per 9 innings, you cant ignore his 2.66 ERA and 10 strikeouts per 9.

9. Chin Lung Hu, SS
The Taiwanese signee has shown the ability to hit while playing potential gold glove defense. His 23 Steals tied him for team lead and he was alone at the top with 29 Doubles.

10. Justin Orenduff, RHP
The 2004 Supplemental First Rounder posted a miniscule 2.24 ERA in Vero Beach before heading up to Jacksonville. He was also the winning pitcher when the Suns took the Southern League Championship.

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