2011 Astros Minor League Thread

rockets934life · Nov 1, 2011

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15385

System in 20 Words or Less: Trades and the draft improve things dramatically, but there's still much work to be done.

Four-Star Prospects
1. Jarred Cosart, RHP
2. George Springer, OF
3. Jonathan Singleton, 1B
Three-Star Prospects
4. Brett Oberholtzer, LHP
5. Jonathan Villar, SS
6. Domingo Santana, OF
7. Telvin Nash, 1B
Two-Star Prospects
8. Delino DeShields, 2B
9. Jack Armstrong, RHP
10. Mike Foltynewicz, RHP
11. Paul Clemens, RHP

Nine More:
12. Ariel Ovando, OF: This high-priced Dominican signee showed huge raw power and huge holes in swing during his stateside debut.
13. Austin Wates, OF: He’s a plus runner with contact skills, but he struggles in center field and has limited power.
14. Jordan Scott, OF: Scott, a pop-up prospect in the Appy League, has an outstanding bat, but scouts want to see other tools.
15. J.B. Shuck, OF: He’s a little grinder who gets on base, but he has already reached his ceiling—a fourth outfielder.
16. Mike Kvasnicka, 3B: Scouts are confused as to why Kvasnicka is not a catcher. He just does not have enough bat for third base.
17. Juan Abreu, RHP: Abreu is the lesser-known player from the Bourn trade. He is older and undersized, but he has big velocity out of the bullpen and can miss bats.
18. Adrian Houser, RHP: Houser, a 2011 second-round pick, has a pro body and excellent athleticism, but is still learning how to pitch, and is seen by some as a bit of a project.
19. Vince Velasquez, RHP: This 2010 second-rounder missed all of 2011 recovering from Tommy John surgery, but his projection remains through the roof—or at least at it.
20. Jio Mier, SS: This 2009 first-rounder is a plus defender who can't hit, but that’s slightly offset by his ability to draw walks.

1. Jarred Cosart, RHP
DOB: 5/25/90
Height/Weight: 6-3/180
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted/Signed: 38th round, 2008, Clear Creek HS (TX)
2011 Stats: 3.92 ERA (108-98-43-79) at High-A (20 G); 4.71 ERA (36.1-33-13-22) at Double-A (7 G)
Tools Profile: He’s a power right-hander with killer stuff and a baffling lack of results.

Year in Review: While he had the best stuff of any right-hander at the Futures Game and was the key to the Hunter Pence deal, Cosart spent much of the year frustrating scouts as to why he wasn't better.
The Good: Cosart certainly looks the part of a pitcher. He's a pure power arm with a good frame that features projection. The righty already sits in the mid-90s, and consistently touches 97-99 in each start. Both his curveball and changeup flash as plus; if you see him on the right night, they can flash more. Cosart approaches the game with the kind of confidence arrogance that scouts like to see in a hard thrower.
The Bad: Cosart's numbers are nowhere close to what they should be based on his stuff. His mechanics can quickly get sloppy and violent, which costs him both command and movement on his secondary pitches. He can focus too much on overpowering hitters and forgetting about his secondary pitches or sequencing. “My projection changes on him every time I see him,” said one scout. “And in my history, a lot of pitchers like that end up closing.”
Ephemera: Cosart would not be the first player who signed as the 1156th overall pick in the draft; Mike Jacobs (1999 draft) was the first in 2005.
Perfect World Projection: Cosart has the potential to be a frontline starter, dominating closer, or constant source of frustration in the mold of Gavin Floyd.
Fantasy Impact: You like to gamble?
Path to the Big Leagues: Cosart will likely begin 2012 back at Double-A, and how well he pitches will determine his timetable. There are scenarios in which he reaches the big leagues by September, and there are chances that he's in the Texas League all season.
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The rest of the article is per pay so if anyone wants to cough up the 4.95 per month...

juicystream · Nov 2, 2011

rockets934life said: ↑

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15385

The rest of the article is per pay so if anyone wants to cough up the 4.95 per month...
Click to expand...

Hard to believe how bad we continue to draft. The prospect status of our top picks have tanked, as well as that of our biggest international FA signing. Pence brought back 3 of the top 6, which is quite remarkable.

What I do like is actually the 12-20 guys. Ovando, Houser and Velasquez have star potential. Wates has Juan Pierre written all over him, IMO.

No Worries · Nov 2, 2011

rockets934life said: ↑

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=15385

System in 20 Words or Less: Trades and the draft improve things dramatically, but there's still much work to be done.

Four-Star Prospects
1. Jarred Cosart, RHP
2. George Springer, OF
3. Jonathan Singleton, 1B

Three-Star Prospects
4. Brett Oberholtzer, LHP
5. Jonathan Villar, SS
6. Domingo Santana, OF
7. Telvin Nash, 1B

Two-Star Prospects
8. Delino DeShields, 2B
9. Jack Armstrong, RHP
10. Mike Foltynewicz, RHP
11. Paul Clemens, RHP

Nine More:
12. Ariel Ovando, OF: This high-priced Dominican signee showed huge raw power and huge holes in swing during his stateside debut.
13. Austin Wates, OF: He’s a plus runner with contact skills, but he struggles in center field and has limited power.
14. Jordan Scott, OF: Scott, a pop-up prospect in the Appy League, has an outstanding bat, but scouts want to see other tools.
15. J.B. Shuck, OF: He’s a little grinder who gets on base, but he has already reached his ceiling—a fourth outfielder.
16. Mike Kvasnicka, 3B: Scouts are confused as to why Kvasnicka is not a catcher. He just does not have enough bat for third base.
17. Juan Abreu, RHP: Abreu is the lesser-known player from the Bourn trade. He is older and undersized, but he has big velocity out of the bullpen and can miss bats.
18. Adrian Houser, RHP: Houser, a 2011 second-round pick, has a pro body and excellent athleticism, but is still learning how to pitch, and is seen by some as a bit of a project.
19. Vince Velasquez, RHP: This 2010 second-rounder missed all of 2011 recovering from Tommy John surgery, but his projection remains through the roof—or at least at it.
20. Jio Mier, SS: This 2009 first-rounder is a plus defender who can't hit, but that’s slightly offset by his ability to draw walks.
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Compared this against their 2011 list ...

System In 20 Words Or Less: It's better than last year but only by baby steps for a system that remains in a deep, deep hole.

Four-Star Prospects
1. Jordan Lyles, RHP
2. Delino DeShields Jr., 2B/OF

Three-Star Prospects
3. Mike Foltynewicz, RHP
4. Ariel Ovando, OF
5. Jonathan Villar, SS
6. Jimmy Paredes, 2B
7. Tannuer Bushue, RHP
8. J.D. Martinez, OF

Two-Star Prospects
9. Mike Kvasnicka, 3B/OF/C
10. Jiovanni Mier, SS
11. Jose Altuve, 2B

Nine More:
12. Telvin Nash, 1B: This third-round pick from 2009 has some of the best raw power in the system, but can he hit?
13. Jay Austin, OF: An intriguing center fielder, Austin has speed and power potential, but his bat lags behind.
14. Austin Wates, OF: Wates is a contact-oriented hitter with speed and the potential to move up this list after his full-season debut.
15. Aneury Rodriguez, RHP: This Rule 5 pick has a plus fastball and usable secondary offerings.
16. Mark Melancon, RHP: The former Yankee reliever could earn a big-league job in spring training.
17. J.B. Shuck, OF: He has real on-base ability, but his center field defense is fringy.
18. Michael Feliz, RHP: This Dominican signee is highly projectable, but he already has a suspension for enhancing.
19. Brian Bogusevic, OF: A converted outfielder and former pitcher, Bogusevic should have career as a fourth outfielder.
20. Ross Seaton, RHP: His inability to miss bats led to a battering in the Cal League.
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Ready or not, prospects 1, 6, 8, 12, 15, 16, 17 and 19 all got some time in The Bigs last year.

No Worries · Nov 2, 2011

juicystream said: ↑

What I do like is actually the 12-20 guys. Ovando, Houser and Velasquez have star potential. Wates has Juan Pierre written all over him, IMO.
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How Vincent Velasquez did not make the Two-Star Prospects list (or better) is a mystery to me.

No Worries · Nov 2, 2011

juicystream said: ↑

Hard to believe how bad we continue to draft. The prospect status of our top picks have tanked, as well as that of our biggest international FA signing.
Click to expand...

It is unclear to me that the Astros have drafted poorly versus suck at player development. I have posted this before but the traded-for players in our top 11 are not first or second picks from their original teams. The original teams developed them into multi-star prospects.

rockets934life · Nov 2, 2011

No Worries said: ↑

How Vincent Velasquez did not make the Two-Star Prospects list (or better) is a mystery to me.
Click to expand...

I think the TJ surgery put him down so low but KG's comments says it all about what he could become. One good season and he COULD be in the top 3 next season depending who else we acquire and draft.

Going back to a comment made at the deadline last year by scouting the sally..."Astros draft for depth and trade for talent."

J.R. · Nov 2, 2011

Rest of BP article..

1. Jared Cosart, RHP
DOB: 5/25/90
Height/Weight: 6-3/180
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted/Signed: 38 round, 2008, Clear Creek HS (TX)
2011 Stats: 3.92 ERA (108-98-43-79) at High-A (20 G); 4.71 ERA (36.1-33-13-22) at Double-A (7 G)
Tools Profile: He’s a power right-hander with killer stuff and a baffling lack of results.

Year in Review: While he had the best stuff of any right-hander at the Futures Game and was the key to the Hunter Pence deal, Cosart spent much of the year frustrating scouts as to why he wasn't better.

The Good: Cosart certainly looks the part of a pitcher. He's a pure power arm with a good frame that features projection. The righty already sits in the mid-90s, and consistently touches 97-99 in each start. Both his curveball and changeup flash as plus; if you see him on the right night, they can flash more. Cosart approaches the game with the kind of confidence arrogance that scouts like to see in a hard thrower.

The Bad: Cosart's numbers are nowhere close to what they should be based on his stuff. His mechanics can quickly get sloppy and violent, which costs him both command and movement on his secondary pitches. He can focus too much on overpowering hitters and forgetting about his secondary pitches or sequencing. “My projection changes on him every time I see him,” said one scout. “And in my history, a lot of pitchers like that end up closing.”

Ephemera: Cosart would not be the first player who signed as the 1156 overall pick in the draft; Mike Jacobs (1999 draft) was the first in 2005.

Perfect World Projection: Cosart has the potential to be a frontline starter, dominating closer, or constant source of frustration in the mold of Gavin Floyd.

Fantasy Impact: You like to gamble?

Path to the Big Leagues: Cosart will likely begin 2012 back at Double-A, and how well he pitches will determine his timetable. There are scenarios in which he reaches the big leagues by September, and there are chances that he's in the Texas League all season.

ETA: 2013

2. George Springer, OF
DOB: 9/19/89
Height/Weight: 6-3/205
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted/Signed: First round, 2011, University of Connecticut
2011 Stats: .179/.303/.393 at Low-A (8 G)
Tools Profile: He’s a potential five-tool talent, but the one that lags behind is the most important one.

Year in Review: Seen as a potential top-five pick heading into the year, Springer's spring fell a bit under expectations. Houston took him 11 overall, and he signed at the deadline for $2.525 million.

The Good: Springer's athleticism and tools are rarely found in college-based players. He's a big, athletic outfielder with enough bulk for above-average power and arm strength, and enough speed for plus run times and very good center-field play. He understands how to work the count to his advantage and looks for pitches to drive.

The Bad: There are concerns about Springer's pure hitting ability, as there is a considerable amount of swing-and-miss in his game. He can get fooled on good breaking stuff, and could use more development time than most first-round college players to make adjustments at the plate.

Ephemera: George's father played in the 1976 Little League World Series.

Perfect World Projection: He could be a star-level power/speed combination in center field.

Fantasy Impact: He could be a very early pick who can contribute in every category.

Path to the Big Leagues: Springer's performance this spring will determine which A-level squad he will begin at in 2012 t. He's not expected to be a quick mover, but the patience could be well worth it.

ETA: 2014

3. Jonathan Singleton, 1B
DOB: 9/18/91
Height/Weight: 6-2/215
Bats/Throws: L/L
Drafted/Signed: Eighth round, 2009, Millikan HS (CA)
2011 Stats: .298/.392/.441 at High-A (128 G)
Tools Profile: He can hit, and there is the potential for power, but that's it for the tools, and the expectations of them.

Year in Review: Like Cosart, scouts love Singleton but wonder why he isn't better. Singleton was another piece of the Hunter Pence deal, and hit .333/.405/.512 in a brief California League stint.

The Good: Singleton combines a quick, live bat with plenty of muscle, leaving many to project above-average batting averages and well above-average power from him. He draws plenty of walks thanks to good plate discipline and pitchers being careful around him.

The Bad: Singleton has been merely good, not great since a stunning six weeks to begin his career in 2010. His power shows up far more in batting practice than games so far, although youth is on his side. Left-handers have found success busting him inside. He's a well below-average runner and defender who is limited to first base, so the bat has to develop perfectly.

Ephemera: While Millikan High School has created 33 draft picks in its history, Dante Powell is the only one to hit a big-league home run, and he finished his career with just two jacks.

Perfect World Projection: Singleton is a bat-only first baseman, but with more than enough bat to play the position.

Fantasy Impact: As long as you're not expecting speed, you should be just fine.

Path to the Big Leagues: The Astros hope Singleton can earn as spot on the Double-A roster to being the 2012 season, and hope he'll be in a position to compete for a big-league job the following year.

ETA: 2013

4. Brett Oberholtzer, LHP
DOB: 7/1/89
Height/Weight: 6-2/230
Bats/Throws: L/L
Drafted/Signed: Eighth round, 2008, William Penn HS (DE)
2011 Stats: 4.10 ERA (155-147-52-121) at Double-A (27 G)
Tools Profile: He has no weakness, but nothing that’s star-level, either.

Year in Review: Entering the year a bit under the radar, this thickly-built lefty pitched well at Double-A and was the best player to go to Houston in the Michael Bourn deal.

The Good: Oberholtzer has four pitches that rate at least average, and they all play up due to his ability to locate them. He sits at 88-92 with a fastball that has some wiggle, and he'll throw both a curveball and slider, although the former is the more advanced pitch. His changeup has improved to average, and he earns raves for his makeup and battling style of pitching, with one scout calling him, “The kind of guy the manager needs to physically remove from the mound.”

The Bad: Oberholtzer is what he is. While he has the kind of wide body you look for in a starter, he's also maxed out physically and offers little projection. He'll have less margin for error as he moves up the ladder, and some scouts wonder if he'll have an out pitch at the big-league level.

Ephemera: Oberholtzer will never be a threat at the plate, as he went 3-for-30 in 2011, including an 0-for-14 mark against right-handers with nine strikeouts.

Perfect World Projection: He could be an inning-eating fourth starter.

Fantasy Impact: He’ll be the type of pitcher that doesn't kill it in any one category, but doesn't hurt you anywhere, either.

Path to the Big Leagues: Oberholtzer is ready for Triple-A hitters, and could earn a big-league look at some point during the 2012 season.

ETA: Late 2012

5. Jonathan Villar, SS
DOB: 5/2/91
Height/Weight: 6-1/195
Bats/Throws: S/R
Drafted/Signed: 2009, Dominican Republic
2011 Stats: .259/.353/.414 at High-A (47 G); .231/.301/.386 at Double-A (324 G)
Tools Profile: He’s everything a scout would look for in a shortstop, except for hitting ability and fielding consistency.

Year in Review: Villar, a tools player who was sent to Houston in the Roy Oswalt deal, split time between two teams, doing little at both levels.

The Good: There are top-100 prospects who don't have Villar's upside, but he's very far from it. He's a 60-65 runner, good for 30-plus stolen bases, plus range at shortstop, and a very strong arm. He added a power element to his game in 2011 with 14 home runs, and has at least average raw power.

The Bad: Villar's game might be best described as “out of control.” His newfound power led to plenty of bad habits at the plate; he became pull-conscious, adding to a strikeout rate that was already a considerable concern. He also has a history of making weak contact. As capable as he is of spectacular plays at shortstop, he's just as likely to boot a routine play, and scouts question his concentration on both sides of the ball.

Ephemera: Villar started games at every position in the lineup in 2011 except cleanup and ninth.

Perfect World Projection: Villar is the rare player with the potential to be a 20/20 shortstop, but it will take a myriad of things to break right.

Fantasy Impact: As a shortstop with the potential for power and speed, he could end up more valuable in fantasy than real life.

Path to the Big Leagues: All Villar really proved with his half-season at Corpus Christi is that he needs more time at Double-A. He'll likely return there to begin the year. Youth is still on his side.

ETA: 2014

6. Domingo Santana, OF
DOB: 8/5/92
Height/Weight: 6-5/200
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted/Signed: 2009, Dominican Republic
2011 Stats: .287/.362/.471 at Single-A (113 G)
Tools Profile: He has tons of power and a big arm, but that's it.

Year in Review: This teenager was having an uneven year in Low-A, but he hit .382 with five home runs in 17 games after going to Houston in the Pence deal.

The Good: Santana is a big man with massive raw power; he’s capable of tape-measure shots when he gets his arms extended. His outfield play has improved year to year, and he has more than enough arm strength for right field.

The Bad: Santana's approach could be his undoing, as he's an overly aggressive hitter who looks dead red early and rarely cuts down on his swing. While Santana moves well for his size, he'll likely slow down as he ages, and could end up a bat-only player with well below-average speed and athleticism.

Ephemera: In 15 at-bats with runners in scoring position for Low-A Lexington, Santana drove in 16 runs, going 9-for-15 with a double and two home runs.

Perfect World Projection: He could be a classic slugging corner outfielder.

Fantasy Impact: He will provide power, but he will not be a well-rounded performer.

Path to the Big Leagues: Santana has the potential to put up some massive numbers next year at High-A Lancaster, but he could be hard to evaluate until he gets to the upper levels, where his approach will be challenged.

ETA: Late 2014

7. Telvin Nash, 1B
DOB: 2/20/91
Height/Weight: 6-1/230
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted/Signed: Third round, 2009, Griffin HS (GA)
2011 Stats: .385/.500/.538 at Rookie (5 G); .263/.373/.485 at Single-A (73 G)
Tools Profile: He’s a beefy first baseman who hits balls hard.

Year in Review: While he missed roughly two months due to surgery to remove a hamate bone, Nash’s 73 games at Low-A Lexington left plenty to be optimistic about.

The Good: There are scouts who think Nash has as much raw power as Santana, as he crushes balls when he turns on them. He has a very good approach and rarely goes out of the zone with his swing. While he struggled defensively in a move to first base, Nash has the potential to become average there.

The Bad: Nash has an all-or-nothing swing with too much of an uppercut, and struck out 103 times in 268 at-bats for Lexington. Breaking balls give him fits, and while he understands the strike zone, he has a long way to go in pitch recognition. He doesn't run well, but that's not part of his game.

Ephemera: Nash was a high-school teammate of Tim Beckham, a former first overall pick, at Griffin High School.

Perfect World Projection: He’s a solid everyday first baseman, but there's upside for more.

Fantasy Impact: He's a bat-only player, but he can slug.

Path to the Big Leagues: Like Santana, Nash should be able to take advantage of one of the best hitting parks in the minors in 2012.

ETA: 2014

8. Delino DeShields, 2B
DOB: 8/16/92
Height/Weight: 5-9/188
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted/Signed: First round, 2010, Woodward Academy HS (GA)
2011 Stats: .220/.305/.322 at Single-A (119 G)
Tools Profile: He’s a fantastic athlete, but can he play baseball?

Year in Review: This eighth overall pick from 2010 simply never got going in his full-season debut.

The Good: DeShields still has first-round tools, the most notable of which is his plus-plus speed. He's a compact athlete with the strength to sting a ball when he makes full contact, and he could max out at 15-20 home runs per year.

The Bad: DeShields is disturbingly raw, with swing mechanics that some feel are in need of a complete overhaul. A weak arm keeps him from playing on the left side, and he was a mixed bag at second base. He has the potential to be a plus defender, but he needs to improve his transfers and double-play turn.

Ephemera: DeShields hit .320 (31-for-97) in July, but .194 when the calendar said any other month.

Perfect World Projection: The tools are still there for DeShields to develop, but 2011 showed that there is great risk involved with him.

Fantasy Impact: There's the potential for speed and a bit of power here, but he's obviously anything but a safe bet, or even worth an investment at this point.

Path to the Big Leagues: The Astros will use the spring to determine if DeShields will return to Low-A for more seasoning, or move up to High-A with the hope that it can kick-start his career.

ETA: 2015

9. Jack Armstrong, RHP
DOB: 12/14/89
Height/Weight: 6-7/230
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted/Signed: Third round, 2011, Vanderbilt
2011 Stats: DNP
Tools Profile: Everything is there to succeed, but rarely at the same time.

Year in Review: Seen as a potential elite pick two years ago, Armstrong battled with injuries and inconsistencies throughout his college career, but his promise still earned him a $750,000 bonus in the third round.

The Good: Armstrong is a scout's dream physically he is huge and a tremendous athlete. He has a free and easy delivery, and his velocity sits in the low 90s. Armstrong touches 95, though he showed even more velocity earlier in his amateur career. His curveball is a solid offering at times, but his best secondary pitch is an above-average changeup with depth and fade.

The Bad: Armstrong is a bit of an enigma, someone who never lived up to expectations at Vanderbilt and was hampered by back issues in 2011. His breaking ball can come and go, and based on his delivery and arm angle, some would like to see him try a slider instead. His size and long levers create an inconsistent release point, leading to issues with his command.

Ephemera: Armstrong's father of the same name was the National League starter in the 1990 All-Star Game.

Perfect World Projection: Armstrong is, without question, a project, and one with equal potential for both considerable big-league value and never getting past Double-A.

Fantasy Impact: His role and effectiveness in it is still to be determined.

Path to the Big Leagues: The Astros hope that a healthy Armstrong will be ready for a full season at Low-A to begin the year.

ETA: 2014

10. Mike Foltynewicz, RHP
DOB: 10/7/91
Height/Weight: 6-4/200
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted/Signed: First round, 2010, Minooka Community HS (IL)
2011 Stats: 4.97 ERA (134-149-51-88) at Single-A (26 G)
Tools Profile: This physical pitcher has a classic three-pitch mix, but he’s still highly inconsistent.

Year in Review: This 2010 first-rounder had more scuffles than success in his full-season debut.

The Good: Foltynewicz has the body and stuff to be a big-league starter. His velocity wavered in 2011, but generally sat average to plus, often peaking at 94-95 mph. He throws a hard, biting breaking ball when he can avoid getting around on the pitch, and a changeup.

The Bad: Everything about Foltynewicz's game is inconsistent, from his velocity to his command to the quality of his secondary pitches. He has a tendency to rush his delivery, and also falls in love with his fastball, which while good, is not good enough as a sole offering.

Ephemera: Foltynewicz had trouble staying out of trouble, as batters leading off innings against him in 2011 hit .341/.421/.545.

Perfect World Projection: He could be a back-of-the-rotation starter.

Fantasy Impact: It’s limited. Path to the Big Leagues: Foltynewicz hardly dominated at Low-A, and his inability to miss bats could make pitching in Lancaster a nightmare.

ETA: 2015

11. Paul Clemens, RHP
DOB: 2/14/88
Height/Weight: 6-4/180
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted/Signed: Seventh round, 2008, Louisburg College
2011 Stats: 3.42 ERA (139.1-126-56-119) in Double-A (25 G); 15.43 ERA (4.2-4-6-6) at Triple-A (1 G)
Tools Profile: He has two plus pitches, but can he start?

Year in Review: This long-armed lefty generated some buzz in the Southern League before going to Houston in the Bourn deal.

The Good: The tall and lanky Clemens uses whippy arm action to generate above-average velocity with his fastball that parks in the low 90s. He'll throw what is often an above-average curveball at any point in the count; he can use it to freeze hitters in the zone or as a chase pitch.

The Bad: Clemens has a tendency to get hammered at times, losing his mechanics and having all of his pitches flatten out. His changeup, while improved, remains a below-average offering, leaving some to see him as a potential reliever without the stuff for the late innings. Ephemera: Clemens was drafted twice out of Louisburg College in North Carolina, a school whose most famous baseball alumni is Otis Nixon, who was drafted three times.

Perfect World Projection: He could be a fourth or fifth starter, or middle reliever.

Fantasy Impact: Not much. Path to the Big Leagues: Clemens ended the 2011 season with one Triple-A start, and should return there to begin 2012, with the chance to pitch his way to a callup.

ETA: Late 2012.
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J.R. · Nov 2, 2011

Not sure how old(or new) this is but Jonathan Mayo's Prospect Watch

1. Jarrod Cosart
Rank: 1
Corpus Christi Hooks (AA)
ETA: 2013
Position: RHP
Age: 21 DOB: 05/25/1990
Bats: R, Throws: R
Drafted: 2008, 38th (1156)

When healthy, the 2008 Draft pick has electric stuff, with one of the better fastballs in the Minors and a very good curve. He's lean and projectable and he's got good command of his stuff, though his changeup, as with many young pitchers, is behind the other offerings. The bigger issue has been staying injury-free. In 2009, it was his back and shoulder. Last year, his season ended at the end of June with a bad elbow.

Other Lists: Top 50 Prospects (#31)

2. Jonathan Singleton
Rank: 2
Lancaster JetHawks (A+)
ETA: 2014
Position: 1B
Age: 20 DOB: 09/18/1991
Bats: L, Throws: L
Drafted: 2009, 8th (257)

The 2009 high school draftee had an extremely productive first full season, being named the South Atlantic League's Most Outstanding Major League prospect. He should hit for average and power and has a good approach at the plate. Although he was a top first base prospect, the Phillies moved Singleton to the outfield to avoid the Ryan Howard roadblock, though he was moved back to first. That's where he's now playing for the Astros, who acquired him in the Hunter Pence deal.

Other Lists: Top 50 Prospects (#32) | Top 10 1st Base Prospects (#3)

3. Jonathan Villar
Rank: 3
Corpus Christi Hooks (AA)
ETA: 2013
Position: SS
Age: 20 DOB: 05/02/1991
Bats: S, Throws: R
Signed: May 20, 2008

Acquired from the Phillies in the Roy Oswalt deal, Villar is a young shortstop who can run and flat-out play his position defensively. He has a plus arm and range, and can steal bases, but he's still very raw, striking out too much and making mistakes in the field as well. He won't turn 20 until May, so there's time to iron out the rough spots. When that happens, he could take off.

4. Mike Foltynewicz
Rank: 4
Lexington Legends (A)
ETA: 2014
Position: RHP
Age: 20, DOB: 10/07/1991
Bats: R, Throws: R
Drafted: 2010, 1st (19)

The Astros' second first-round pick last June, Foltynewicz got a good taste of pro ball last summer and, as a result, is ready for full-season ball. All he needs is experience to refine his stuff, and he has the chance to be a frontline starter in the future. He's getting his career started in earnest with full-season Lexington.

5. Paul Clemens
Rank: 5
Oklahoma City RedHawks (AAA)
ETA: 2012
Position: RHP
Age: 23, DOB: 02/14/1988
Bats: R, Throws: R
Drafted: 2008, 7th (220)

An eighth-round pick out of junior college in 2008, Clemens has always impressed with his power stuff. The Braves have used him in the past as both a reliever and starter, with mixed results. He had a solid 2010, earning a promotion while appearing in 35 games (just eight starts). Now it looks like things are coming together for the lanky right-hander, as he continues to develop and command his stuff, with his breaking ball and changeup giving him weapons in addition to a fastball he can get easily into the mid-90s. The Braves sent him out as a starter this year, part of the rotation for Double-A Mississippi, and he had a very good first half before being part of the package that went to Houston in July's Michael Bourn deal.

6. Delino DeShields
Rank: 6
Lexington Legends (A)
ETA: 2014
Position: 2B
Age: 19, DOB: 08/16/1992
Bats: R, Throws: R
Drafted: 2010, 1st (8)

Much like his dad, DeShields is a speedy, athletic player who should be a dynamic leadoff type down the road. The No. 8 overall pick from last June's Draft, DeShields has plus plus speed, but he's more than just a runner. He's got good bat speed and has more pop than you'd think. Putting his arrest this offseason behind him, he's trying to hit the ground running with Class A Lexington this year.

Other Lists: Top 10 2nd Base Prospects (#5)

7. Tanner Bushue
Rank: 7
Lexington Legends (A)
ETA: 2013
Position: RHP
Age: 20, DOB: 06/20/1991
Bats: R, Throws: R
Drafted: 2009, 2nd (69)

A 2009 second-rounder, Bushue won't turn 20 until June, so he's still on a good learning curve as he repeats in Lexington. He's got the stuff to succeed, with an above-average fastball, a plus curve and a developing changeup. All of his pitches show flashes. Added consistency, and strength, should help him move up the ladder if he can avoid the disabled list, a place he visited in June.

8. Brett Oberholtzer
Rank: 8
Corpus Christi Hooks (AA)
ETA: 2012
Position: LHP
Age: 22, DOB: 07/01/1989
Bats: L, Throws: L
Drafted: 2008, 8th (250)

The junior college product was having a solid year in the Southern League when he was included in the Deadline deal that sent Michael Bourn to the Atlanta Braves in July. He has the chance to have at least three above-average Major League pitches. His fastball is in the 87-92 mph range, he's got a solid cutter and his changeup is an above-average offering as well. He mixes his stuff well, and it all plays up due to his outstanding command and control. His ceiling is somewhat limited -- he's more of a pitchability type -- but he could be pitching in the middle or back end of a rotation by 2012.

9. Austin Wates
Rank: 9
Lancaster JetHawks (A+)
ETA: 2013
Position: OF
Age: 23, DOB: 09/02/1988
Bats: R, Throws: R
Drafted: 2010, 3rd (90)

A toolsy college player with polished hitting skills, Wates could move pretty quickly through the Astros' system. He has a good approach at the plate, and should hit for average and get on base. He may not have a ton of power, but his speed should make him a good basestealer. It also should allow him to play a decent outfield.

10. Domingo Santana
Rank: 10
Tigres del Licey
ETA: 2015
Position: OF
Age: 19, DOB: 08/05/1992
Bats: R, Throws: R
Signed: March 23, 2009

The Astros got Santana as the player to be named later in the Hunter Pence deal that also netted Jarred Cosart and Jonathan Singleton. Santana is the youngest of the trio and was playing as a teenager in the Class A South Atlantic League at the time of the trade. He remained in the same league when he switched organizations and flat-out raked for the Astros affiliate over his remaining games in 2011. He's got a big, rangy frame with a lot of upside. He's got plenty of tools, but the one that stands out the most is his power, which is likely to carry him up the ladder as it develops.
Click to expand...

juicystream · Nov 2, 2011

[rquoter]Jose Altuve, 2B, Houston Astros
Altuve had an impressive 2010 campaign but still wasn't held in high regard, mostly on account of his diminutive 5-foot-7, 170-pound frame. After flirting with .400 in the minors and impressing in the Futures Game, he was rushed to the big leagues, where his overly aggressive approach was exposed. Altuve's outstanding bat control works against him when facing top-level pitching, as he can hit bad pitches, but that often leads to bad contact. He's in Venezuela to get more exposure to advanced arms and work on his plate discipline -- and while it's not surprising to see him hitting .333/.382/.458 for Magallanes, he has already drawn four walks in his 12 games after taking just five in 57 contests for the Astros. He remains the favorite for the second-base job in Houston next season, but it's not guaranteed.[/rquoter]

The only way I think Altuve isn't the opening day 2b is injury.

http://insider.espn.go.com/mlb/hots...ve-brandon-belt-winter-league-prospects-watch

leroy · Nov 2, 2011

Who else would be at 2B? I think that snippet is overly harsh of Altuve. I think he's very young and will learn to be a better major league hitter. He and JD Martinez are the 2 I'm the least bit concerned about right now.

juicystream · Nov 2, 2011

leroy said: ↑

Who else would be at 2B? I think that snippet is overly harsh of Altuve. I think he's very young and will learn to be a better major league hitter. He and JD Martinez are the 2 I'm the least bit concerned about right now.
Click to expand...

Downs would be 2nd in line for 2b.

BTW, I decided to look up all of our winter ball players, and Bogey, Altuve, Paredes, and Navarro are off to solid starts.

rockets934life · Nov 2, 2011

leroy said: ↑

Who else would be at 2B? I think that snippet is overly harsh of Altuve. I think he's very young and will learn to be a better major league hitter. He and JD Martinez are the 2 I'm the least bit concerned about right now.
Click to expand...

Problem with Altuve is the guy doesn't take a pitch to save his life. Unless he turns into a GREAT hitter, this will be an issue because he doesn't project for tons of power and isn't a speed demon. At his height, the guy has to start drawing walks and getting on base more.

juicystream · Nov 2, 2011

rockets934life said: ↑

Problem with Altuve is the guy doesn't take a pitch to save his life. Unless he turns into a GREAT hitter, this will be an issue because he doesn't project for tons of power and isn't a speed demon. At his height, the guy has to start drawing walks and getting on base more.
Click to expand...

Or hit .330+

No Worries · Nov 3, 2011

Crawfish Boxes released their 2012 Top Prospects list this week ...

t-30 Jordan Scott
t-30 Josh Zeid
t-30 Tom Shirley
t-30 Dallas Keuchel
29 Chase Davidson
28 Dan Adamson
27 Jonathan Meyer
26 Jake Buchanan
25 Javaris Reynolds
24 Brandon Meredith
23 Mike Kvasnicka
22 Tanner Bushue
21 Telvin Nash
20 Kody Hinze
19 Vincent Velasquez
18 Chris Wallace
17 Kyle Hallock
16 Jack Armstrong Jr.
15 Nicholas Tropeano
14 Jake Goebbert
13 Mike Foltynewicz
12 Jiovanni Mier
11 Delino Deshields Jr.
10 Brett Oberholtzer
9 Adrian Houser
8 Austin Wates
7 Paul Clemens
6 Ariel Ovando
5 Jonathan Villar
4 Domingo Santana
3 George Springer
2 Jarred Cosart
1 Jonathan Singleton

juicystream · Nov 3, 2011

No Worries said: ↑

Crawfish Boxes released their 2012 Top Prospects list this week ...

t-30 Jordan Scott
t-30 Josh Zeid
t-30 Tom Shirley
t-30 Dallas Keuchel
29 Chase Davidson
28 Dan Adamson
27 Jonathan Meyer
26 Jake Buchanan
25 Javaris Reynolds
24 Brandon Meredith
23 Mike Kvasnicka
22 Tanner Bushue
21 Telvin Nash
20 Kody Hinze
19 Vincent Velasquez
18 Chris Wallace
17 Kyle Hallock
16 Jack Armstrong Jr.
15 Nicholas Tropeano
14 Jake Goebbert
13 Mike Foltynewicz
12 Jiovanni Mier
11 Delino Deshields Jr.
10 Brett Oberholtzer
9 Adrian Houser
8 Austin Wates
7 Paul Clemens
6 Ariel Ovando
5 Jonathan Villar
4 Domingo Santana
3 George Springer
2 Jarred Cosart
1 Jonathan Singleton

Click to expand...

Hunter Pence bringing in 3 of the top 4, and 4 of 5 from the Phillies.

No Worries · Nov 5, 2011

Roster Moves - 11/4/11

According to Baseball America, the following Astros minor-league players have been granted free agency:

RHP Erick Abreu (AA)
RHP Sammy Gervacio (AAA)
RHP Brad James (AA)
RHP Ross Wolf (AA)
LHP Kristian Bueno (SS)
LHP Ryan Rowland-Smith (AAA)
LHP Andy Van Hekken (AAA)
C J. R. Towles (AAA)
1B Koby Clemens (AAA)
2B Jose Vallejo (AAA)
3B Jhonny Medrano (LoA)
3B Oswaldo Navarro (AAA)
SS Anderson Hernandez (AAA)
SS Wladimir Sutil (AA)
OF Luis Durango (AAA)
OF Drew Locke (AAA)

No Worries · Nov 5, 2011

2012 Houston Astros Top 15 Prospect Rankings
November 2, 2011

#1 George Springer OF
Born: 9/19/1989
Highest Level Reached: Short-A Tri City Valleycats
2011 Combined Stats: .171, 3(2B), 1HR, 3RBI, 4SB (5 hits in 28 at-bats) (1st Round Pick 2011 MLB Draft)

#2 Jonathan Singleton 1B
Born: 9/18/1991
Highest Level Reached: High-A Lancaster Jethawks
2011 Combined Stats: .298, 23(2B), 1(3B), 13HR, 63RBI

#3 Jarred Cosart RHP
Born: 5/25/1990
Highest Level Reached: Double-A Corpus Christi Hooks
2011 Combined Stats: 10-10, 4.12ERA, 144.1IP, 56BB, 101K, .241BAA

#4 Delino Deshields 2B
Born: 8/16/1992
Highest Level Reached: Low-A Lexington Legends
2011 Combined Stats: .220, 17(2B), 2(3B), 9HR, 48RBI, 30SB

#5 Domingo Santana OF
Born: 8/5/1992
Highest Level Reached: Low-A Lexington Legends
2011 Combined Stats: .287, 33(2B), 4(3B), 12HR, 53RBI

#6 Paul Clemens RHP
Born: 2/14/1988
Highest Level Reached: Triple-A Oklahoma City Redhawks
2011 Combined Stats: 8-7, 3.81ERA, 144IP, 62BB, 125K, .239BAA

#7 Adrian Houser RHP
Born: 2/2/1993
Highest Level Reached: Rookie League Greeneville Astros
2011 Combined Stats: 2-4, 4.31ERA, 48IP, 25BB, 44K, .265BAA

#8 Jonathan Villar SS
Born: 5/2/1991
Highest Level Reached: Double-A Corpus Christi Hooks
2011 Combined Stats: .241, 23(2B), 6(3B), 14HR, 52RBI, 34SB

#9 Jordan Scott OF
Born: 9/22/1991
Highest Level Reached: Low-A Lexington Legends
2011 Combined Stats: .323, 15(2B), 4(3B), 1HR, 43RBI, 12SB

#10 Brett Oberholtzer LHP
Born: 7/1/1989
Highest Level Reached: Double-A Corpus Christi Hooks
2011 Combined Stats: 11-12, 4.01ERA, 155IP, 52BB, 121K, .253BAA

#11 Jack Armstrong RHP
Born: 12/14/1989
Highest Level Reached: Third Round Pick 2011 MLB Draft
2011 Combined Stats: Did Not Play In 2011

#12 Ariel Ovando OF
Born: 9/15/1993
Highest Level Reached: Rookie League Greeneville Astros
2011 Combined Stats: .235, 10(2B), 3(3B), 2HR, 30RBI

#13 Mike Foltynewicz RHP
Born: 10/7/1991
Highest Level Reached: Low-A Lexington Legends
2011 Combined Stats: 5-11, 4.97ERA, 134IP, 51BB, 88K, .289BAA

#14 Tanner Bushue RHP
Born: 6/20/1991
Highest Level Reached: Low-A Lexington Legends
2011 Combined Stats: 6-8, 4.96ERA, 85.1IP, 17BB, 58K, .293BAA

#15 Chase Davidson 1B
Born: 1/14/1990
Highest Level Reached: Short-A Tri City ValleyCats
2011 Combined Stats: .327, 13(2B), 2(3B), 11HR, 44RBI, 8SB

rockets934life · Nov 5, 2011

Surprised to see Jordan Scott in the top 15 of some of these list and Chase Davidson COULD be the next JD Martinez but the guy will need to shoot through the system at his age.

No Worries · Nov 5, 2011

rockets934life said: ↑

Surprised to see Jordan Scott in the top 15 ...
Click to expand...

Maybe reflects the lack of depth on the Astros farm. The Astros are not ranked 22nd for nothing.

BrownBeast99 · Nov 5, 2011

Don't understand why Deshields is ranked so high on that list. I just don't see him amounting to much despite having youth on his side.

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