Low A Preview
The bottom rung on the full season level, Great Lakes is a new destination for Dodger prospects. After being known as Catfish, rookie level graduates can now look forward to representing the Loons. Last year's Low A breakout was Ivan De Jesus Jr, so let's see if I cant peg 2007's star.
Called "(Matt) Kemp-lite" by some, Josh Bell offers an intimidating presence at the plate. Although he's built more like Cory Dunlap, Bell has the most power of any Dodger prospect in the low minors. He hits the ball hard from both sides of the plate. On D, his arm is his strength. He lacks quickness and must improve his footwork. Speed isnt a part of his game. After spending the past two seasons in rookie ball, it's time for Josh to show that he can handle a full season both at the plate and in the field. He should be hitting right in the middle of the Loons' lineup.
Another 2005 draftee to look for is Josh Wall. The 6'6 lanky right-hander hasnt lived up to the expectations of a second rounder, but given his youth there's still time for him to develop into a good prospect. While his fastball has dropped off from his prep days, he still sits in the upper 80s and offers plenty of room for added velocity. His low to mid 70s curveball can be a plus offering at times, though it still needs refinement. He really needs to get his head straight and focus on the task at hand. While his age allows the Dodgers to remain patient, it's time for some results. He should spend the whole year in Great Lakes, regardless of his performance.
Not to be mistaken for the musician, Carlos Santana saw limited time at High A last season but should start off the season as the Loons' catcher. Originally signed as a third baseman, Santana moved behind the plate during the offseason and the results have been positive. He shows solid-average skills across the board defensively, and his bat could carry him to the big leagues. A switch hitter with some pop and a good eye, Carlos walked 30 times compared to 19 strikeouts with rookie league Ogden in 2006. The results in High A Vero Beach werent quite as positive, though he's still a top 30 prospect and at 21, has a plenty of time to reach the big leagues.
And last, but certainly not least, there's Clayton Kershaw. One of the most impressive prospects from the 2006 draft, Kershaw established himself as one of the best lefties in the minors. His repetoire begins with a fastball that sits in the low 90s, can touch 96 and he can locate it anywhere in the zone. He supplements his heater with a big-breaking curve in the low 70s and a solid-average changeup. What was most impressive about Clayton's rookie campaign was the fact that he struck out 54 batters while issuing only 4 non-intentional walks. Kershaw will turn 19 in just over a week and already handles himself on the mound like a seasoned veteran. He should move quickly through the system and sit atop the Dodgers rotation one day.
Next I'll look at prospects who should start the year in the rookie leagues, followed by an early preview of the 2007 draft class.
Called "(Matt) Kemp-lite" by some, Josh Bell offers an intimidating presence at the plate. Although he's built more like Cory Dunlap, Bell has the most power of any Dodger prospect in the low minors. He hits the ball hard from both sides of the plate. On D, his arm is his strength. He lacks quickness and must improve his footwork. Speed isnt a part of his game. After spending the past two seasons in rookie ball, it's time for Josh to show that he can handle a full season both at the plate and in the field. He should be hitting right in the middle of the Loons' lineup.
Another 2005 draftee to look for is Josh Wall. The 6'6 lanky right-hander hasnt lived up to the expectations of a second rounder, but given his youth there's still time for him to develop into a good prospect. While his fastball has dropped off from his prep days, he still sits in the upper 80s and offers plenty of room for added velocity. His low to mid 70s curveball can be a plus offering at times, though it still needs refinement. He really needs to get his head straight and focus on the task at hand. While his age allows the Dodgers to remain patient, it's time for some results. He should spend the whole year in Great Lakes, regardless of his performance.
Not to be mistaken for the musician, Carlos Santana saw limited time at High A last season but should start off the season as the Loons' catcher. Originally signed as a third baseman, Santana moved behind the plate during the offseason and the results have been positive. He shows solid-average skills across the board defensively, and his bat could carry him to the big leagues. A switch hitter with some pop and a good eye, Carlos walked 30 times compared to 19 strikeouts with rookie league Ogden in 2006. The results in High A Vero Beach werent quite as positive, though he's still a top 30 prospect and at 21, has a plenty of time to reach the big leagues.
And last, but certainly not least, there's Clayton Kershaw. One of the most impressive prospects from the 2006 draft, Kershaw established himself as one of the best lefties in the minors. His repetoire begins with a fastball that sits in the low 90s, can touch 96 and he can locate it anywhere in the zone. He supplements his heater with a big-breaking curve in the low 70s and a solid-average changeup. What was most impressive about Clayton's rookie campaign was the fact that he struck out 54 batters while issuing only 4 non-intentional walks. Kershaw will turn 19 in just over a week and already handles himself on the mound like a seasoned veteran. He should move quickly through the system and sit atop the Dodgers rotation one day.
Next I'll look at prospects who should start the year in the rookie leagues, followed by an early preview of the 2007 draft class.
posted by Jared @ 10:17 PM
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