2015 Rank: 15 2014 Rank: 26. 2013 Rank: 26.
TOP 10 PROSPECTS
1. Jose Peraza, 2b (54) 6. Jason Hursh, rhp
2. Mike Foltynewicz, rhp 7. Ozhaino Albies, ss
3. Max Fried, lhp 8. Ricardo Sanchez, lhp
4. Lucas Sims, rhp 9. Jace Peterson, ss/2b
5. Christian Bethancourt, c 10. Rio Ruiz, 3b
How They Got Here: This system has been productive in recent years, but its lack of depth and impact talent helped lead to the dismissal of GM Frank Wren. New GM John Hart has moved swiftly and actively to acquire high-ceiling talent, though many of them carry high risks, such as the injured Max Fried. A productive international program has given them depth as well, particularly up the middle, with Jose Peraza and Ozhaino Albies.
High-Ceiling Sleeper: RHP Dan Winkler, a Rule 5 pick from the Rockies, led the minors in strikeouts in 2013 and was off to a strong start in 2014 at Double-A before requiring Tommy John surgery. If he can come back healthy, he could continue his trajectory toward a future rotation spot.
2015 Rookies: Jace Peterson, acquired from the Padres, had a line on earning the everyday second-base job out of spring training and should at least be a solid utility option. Mike Foltynewicz has a huge arm that would fit in the bullpen, but he and RHP Cody Martin were competing with veterans such as Eric Stults for rotation innings. LHP Manny Banuelos was sent to Triple-A to build up innings after pitching only 76 2/3 the past two seasons.
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