2019 MLB Futures Game Rosters Info & Analysis

Image credit: 2018 Futures Game MVP Taylor Trammell (Photo by Alex Trautwig/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Below is Baseball America’s annual Futures Game roster capsules, sorted by the American League and National League rosters. 


AMERICAN LEAGUE

 

Jordan Balazovic, RHP
Age: 20
Source: St. Martin SS, Mississauga, Ont.
Ht: 6′ 4 • Wt: 175 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Twins in fifth round of 2016 draft; signed July 5, 2016.

Background: Balazovic was considered the top Canadian prospect in the 2016 draft class as teams loved his promising frame and relatively clean delivery.

What To Look For: Balazovic has added oomph to his now 93-96 mph fastball that generates swings and misses. He mixes four pitches with a promising slider and curveball.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
6 2 2.48 12 12 0 61.2 44 4 15 87

J.B. Bukauskas, RHP
Age: 22
Source: North Carolina.
Ht: 6′ 0 • Wt: 196 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Astros in first round (15th overall) of 2017 draft; signed July 7, 2017

Background: Bukauskas enrolled at North Carolina a year early and quickly established himself as one of the better pitchers in his college class thanks to a devastating slider.

What To Look For: Bukauskas has found a promising changeup as a pro to go alongside his low- to mid-90s fastball and still-impressive slider.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
0 3 5.97 14 10 1 57.1 54 5 39 69

Justin Dunn, RHP
Age: 23
Source: Boston College.
Ht: 6′ 2 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Traded by Mets with OFs Jay Bruce and Jarred Kelenic and RHPs Anthony Swarzak and Gerson Bautista to Mariners for 2B Robinson Cano, RHP Edwin Diaz and cash, Dec. 3, 2018.

Background: The first-round pick of the Mets in 2018, Dunn moved from the bullpen to the rotation at Boston College and has been a starter in his four pro seasons.

What To Look For: Dunn has a lively arm and a 90-94 mph fastball, but the fastball’s main goal is to set up his slider, which has some depth.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
5 3 3.46 13 13 0 65 62 3 20 81

Deivi Garcia, RHP
Age: 20
Source: Bonao, D.R.
Ht: 5′ 9 • Wt: 163 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Signed as international free agent by Yankees, July 2, 2015.

Background: Garcia has been one of the stars of 2019. He’s struck out nine or more batters in seven of his first 13 starts and also threw the first five innings of a combined no-hitter.

What To Look For: Garcia’s 91-96 mph fastball is lively enough to get swings and misses, and it makes his plus curveball and potentially plus changeup even more effective.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
4 4 2.78 13 13 0 64.2 43 2 30 109

DL Hall, LHP
Age: 20
Source: Valdosta (Ga.) HS.
Ht: 6′ 2 • Wt: 195 • B-T: L-L
How Acquired: Selected by Orioles in first round (21st overall) of 2017 draft; signed June 30, 2017

Background: Hall has long shown his athleticism, as he was an impressive basketball player in high school before focusing full-time on baseball.

What To Look For: Hall can run his fastball up to 96-97 mph, but he’s already a pitcher who understands how to mix in a quality curveball and a changeup that he throws with conviction.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
2 3 4.25 13 12 1 48.2 37 1 38 73

Matt Manning, RHP
Age: 21
Source: Sheldon HS, Sacramento.
Ht: 6′ 6 • Wt: 215 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Tigers in first round (ninth overall) of 2016 draft; signed June 23, 2016.

Background: Manning’s father, Rick, was an NBA player. The younger Manning turned down a basketball scholarship at Loyola Marymount to sign with the Tigers.

What To Look For: Manning may have an even higher upside than Tigers’ 2018 No. 1 pick Casey Mize thanks to excellent extension that lets his 93-95 mph fastball play up.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
6 4 2.53 14 14 0 81.2 54 4 26 98

Brendan McKay, LHP
Age: 23
Source: Louisville
Ht: 6′ 2 • Wt: 212 • B-T: L-L
How Acquired: Selected by Rays in first round (fourth overall) of 2017 draft; signed June 27, 2017.

Background: McKay is one of the most accomplished college players of all-time as a two-way star that was Baseball America’s 2015 Freshman of the Year and 2017 College Player of the Year.

What To Look For: McKay has some of the best control and command in the minors. He doesn’t blow hitters away, but his ability to spot a fastball, curveball, changeup and cutter keeps him ahead of batters.

PITCHING

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
6 0 1.22 13 11 0 66.2 38 3 15 88


HITTING

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.194 124 24 3 0 4 16 42 1 .306 .315

Nate Pearson, RHP
Age: 22
Source: Central Florida JC
Ht: 6′ 6 • Wt: 245 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Blue Jays in first round (28th overall) of 2017 draft; signed June 29, 2017

Background: Pearson was poised to be a breakout star in 2018, but a comebacker fractured his right forearm and sidelined him for most of the season. He’s made up for lost time this year.

What To Look For: Pearson’s arsenal is dripping with high-octane power. He should top 100 mph in a short stint in the Futures Game, and his slider is often just as impressive as his fastball.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
3 1 1.89 14 14 0 47.2 29 3 8 66

Grayson Rodriguez, RHP
Age: 19
Source: Central Heights HS, Nacogdoches, Texas.
Ht: 6′ 5 • Wt: 220 • B-T: L-R
How Acquired: Selected by Orioles in first round (11th overall) of 2018 draft; signed June 12, 2018.

Background: Rodriguez was one of the fastest risers in the 2018 draft class as he slimmed down and saw his stuff step up. He’s lived up to those expectations so far as a pro.

What To Look For: Rodriguez has one of the best fastballs in the lower levels of the minors because he can spot it to both sides of the plate with precision.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
7 1 2.21 11 11 0 57 34 2 15 78

Brady Singer, RHP
Age: 22
Source: Florida.
Ht: 6′ 5 • Wt: 210 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Royals in first round (18th overall) of 2018 draft; signed July 3, 2018.

Background: Singer was Baseball America’s 2018 College Player of the Year as the ace of a Florida staff that made it to the College World Series.

What To Look For: Singer’s fastball-slider combination has long been trouble for opponents, especially righthanded hitters. He’ll be big league ready when he’s able to locate his fastball to the outer half against righthanders and in on lefthanders.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
6 2 3.27 14 14 0 74.1 75 4 21 61

Ronaldo Hernandez, C
Age: 21
Source: Colombia
Ht: 6′ 1 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Signed as international free agent by Rays, Aug. 9, 2014.

Background: Hernandez was signed by the Rays as an infielder and converted to catching as a pro.

What To Look For: Hernandez has big-time raw power and a double-plus throwing arm behind the plate. He’s still smoothing out the finer points of catching, but he’s more than holding his own in the Florida State League. He and the two other AL catchers should neutralize any threat the NL poses on the bases.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.271 199 25 10 2 5 9 38 5 .306 .417

Sam Huff, C
Age: 21
Source: Arcadia HS, Phoenix.
Ht: 6′ 4 • Wt: 230 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Rangers in seventh round of 2016 draft; signed June 17, 2016.

Background: As a high school senior, Huff led all Arizona prep players in home runs.

What To Look For: Huff blends power and athleticism into an enticing package behind the plate. He worked hard this offseason to simplify his swing without sacrificing any of his prodigious raw power, and it produced one of the best first half performances in the minor leagues. He also has enough arm strength to nullify most threats on the basepaths.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.295 264 78 16 1 20 13 81 5 .338 .591

Jake Rogers, C
Age: 24
Source: Tulane.
Ht: 6′ 1 • Wt: 205 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Traded by Astros with RHP Franklin Perez and OF Daz Cameron to Tigers for RHP Justin Verlander, a player to be named and cash, Aug. 31, 2017; Astros acquired OF Juan Ramirez (Oct. 13, 2017).

Background: Rogers was considered one of the best defensive catchers in college baseball at Tulane and has lived up to that reputation as a pro.

What To Look For: Rogers was tasked with handling one of the minors’ most vaunted pitching staffs to open the season, and he did the job with aplomb. Between Double-A and Triple-A, Rogers has thrown out 19 of 36 (53 percent) runners trying to steal and has also hit 12 home runs.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.257 179 46 6 1 12 41 57 0 .363 .503

Wander Franco, SS
Age: 18
Source: Dominican Republic.
Ht: 6′ 1 • Wt: 189 • B-T: S-R
How Acquired: Signed as international free agent by Rays, July 2, 2017.

Background: Franco has two older brothers in pro baseball who are both also named Wander Franco.

What To Look For: Franco is the game’s unquestioned best prospect. He can hit for average and power, handles shortstop well, is a plus runner and has a sense for the game that is well beyond his years. He destroyed the Midwest League in much the same manner as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. did in 2017, and he looks well on his way to superstardom when he reaches the big leagues in a few years.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.329 240 79 17 5 6 31 20 15 .400 .517

Nolan Jones, 3B
Age: 21
Source: Holy Ghost Prep, Bensalem, Pa.
Ht: 6′ 4 • Wt: 185 • B-T: L-R
How Acquired: Selected by Indians in second round of 2016 draft; signed July 1, 2016.

Background: Jones led the New York-Penn League with a .912 OPS in 2017

What To Look For: Jones has a smooth swing from the left side and is one of the purest hitters in the Indians’ system. Evaluators believe he will also develop plus power as he grows into his frame. He should have the chops to stick at third base as well.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.300 220 66 9 1 6 58 67 5 .454 .432

Royce Lewis, SS
Age: 20
Source: JSerra HS, San Juan Capistrano, Calif.
Ht: 6′ 2 • Wt: 200 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Twins in first round (first overall) of 2017 draft; signed June 17, 2017

Background: Lewis was the No. 1 overall pick in 2017 after a standout high school career. He was also one of the stars of USA Baseball’s 18U national team.

What To Look For: Lewis hasn’t had the season he expected, but he’s still got the tools and athleticism to make a dazzling play in the field or hit a ball out of the yard in Cleveland. There are concerns about the complexity of his swing mechanics, which have given evaluators pause about the strength of his hit tool.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.228 290 66 13 3 5 20 70 13 .280 .345

Nick Madrigal, 2B
Age: 22
Source: Oregon State.
Ht: 5′ 7 • Wt: 165 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by White Sox in first round (fourth overall) of 2018 draft; signed July 4, 2018.

Background: Madrigal was a key part of the 2018 College World Series champion Beavers.

What To Look For: Madrigal’s bat-to-ball skills are unrivaled. He can make quality contact with nearly every pitch, and he almost never strikes out. He doesn’t have a ton of power, but he will get on base and then has the speed to cause havoc once he gets aboard. He’s also a slick defender at the keystone.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.302 255 77 13 3 2 24 7 26 .376 .400

Jorge Mateo, SS
Age: 24
Source: Dominican Republic.
Ht: 6′ 0 • Wt: 192 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Traded by Yankees with OF Dustin Fowler and RHP James Kaprielian to Athletics for RHP Sonny Gray and 2017-18 international bonus pool money, July 31, 2017

Background: Mateo led the minors in stolen bases in 2015 with 80 for low Class A Charleston.

What To Look For: Though playing in Las Vegas and with the major league ball in Triple-A have certainly amplified his numbers, Mateo has the skills to spray line drives around the park and then cause nightmares once he gets on the bases. He earns plus or better grades for his defense and speed.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.318 337 107 17 13 11 15 83 16 .350 .543

Isaac Paredes, 3B
Age: 20
Source: Mexico.
Ht: 5′ 11 • Wt: 225 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Traded by Cubs with 3B Jeimer Candelario and cash to Tigers for LHP Justin Wilson and C Alex Avila, July 31, 2017.

Background: Paredes has been one of the youngest players at his level wherever he’s played in full season ball.

What To Look For: Part of Paredes’ appeal lies in the plate discipline he’s shown at a young age and at an advanced level. He has plenty of raw power, but he hasn’t been able to turn it into in-game power this season, which is especially curious given that he plays at hitter-friendly Erie. Given that he’s started playing third base more this season, he’ll need to make that transition to profile at the position.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.257 249 64 12 1 4 31 33 1 .353 .361

Evan White, 1B
Age: 23
Source: Kentucky.
Ht: 6′ 3 • Wt: 205 • B-T: R-L
How Acquired: Selected by Mariners in first round (17th overall) of 2017 draft; signed June 17, 2017

Background: White is a third-generation professional ballplayer as both his grandfather and uncle played minor league baseball.

What To Look For: Though he’s a fine hitter, White’s biggest asset is his glove. He earns 70 grades on the 20-to-80 scouting scale for his work at first base, and he also boasts an above-average throwing arm. He also carried a 22-game hitting streak into the Texas League all-star break.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.298 198 59 5 2 9 18 48 1 .362 .480

Jo Adell, OF
Age: 20
Source: Ballard HS, Louisville.
Ht: 6′ 3 • Wt: 215 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Angels in first round (10th overall) of 2017 draft; signed June 15, 2017

Background: Adell led the nation in home runs his senior year of high school and became the highest Kentucky high school player drafted in 19 years.

What To Look For: Adell combines light-tower power with supreme speed and athleticism in the outfield, making him one of the most exciting players in the minor leagues.


Jarren Duran, OF
Age: 22
Source: Long Beach State
Ht: 6′ 2 • Wt: 200 • B-T: L-R
How Acquired: Selected by Red Sox in seventh round of 2018 draft; signed June 13, 2018.

Background: Duran stole 49 bases in three years at Long Beach State and earned a reputation as one of the fastest players in the nation.

What To Look For: Duran’s speed is among the best in the minor leagues and makes him a threat to beat out even routine ground balls.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.339 271 92 16 4 4 31 59 20 .412 .472

Daniel Johnson, OF
Age: 23
Source: New Mexico State.
Ht: 5′ 10 • Wt: 200 • B-T: L-L
How Acquired: Traded by Nationals with RHP Jefry Rodriguez and a player to be named to Indians for C Yan Gomes, Nov. 30, 2018; Indians acquired SS Andruw Monasterio (Dec. 17, 2018).

Background: Johnson’s do-everything skillset got him drafted in the fifth round out of New Mexico State and made him the top prospect the Indians acquired in their offseason trade for All-Star catcher Yan Gomes.

What To Look For: Johnson is a threat to make an impact with his bat, his glove or his speed, but his left arm stands out in particular as a cannon that can throw out runners at any base from the outfield.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.268 261 70 18 5 13 28 64 8 .349 .525

Jarred Kelenic, OF
Age: 19
Source: Waukesha (Wis.) West HS.
Ht: 6′ 1 • Wt: 196 • B-T: L-L
How Acquired: Traded by Mets with OF Jay Bruce and RHPs Anthony Swarzak, Justin Dunn and Gerson Bautista to Mariners for 2B Robinson Cano, RHP Edwin Diaz and cash, Dec. 3, 2018.

Background: Kelenic was the first high school player drafted in the 2018 draft (sixth overall) after long standing out as a premier hitter for his age.

What To Look For: Kelenic’s ability to hit for both average and power makes him a threat to notch a big hit at any time.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.297 239 71 16 4 13 29 59 11 .378 .561

Luis Robert, OF
Age: 21
Source: Cuba.
Ht: 6′ 3 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Signed as international free agent by White Sox, May 27, 2017.

Background: Robert was one of the most talented players to come out of Cuba in years and signed with the White Sox after a high-profile pursuit.

What To Look For: Robert’s power, speed and defense in center field are all elite and make him one of the most scintillating talents in the minor leagues.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.352 264 93 19 6 15 15 67 22 .403 .640

National League

 

Adbert Alzolay, RHP
Age: 24
Source: Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela.
Ht: 6′ 0 • Wt: 179 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Signed as international free agent by Cubs, Nov. 28, 2012.

Background: While he didn’t sign as a top prospect in 2012, Alzolay is advanced and profiles well in a major league rotation.

What To Look For: Alzolay features a mid-90s fastball and plus changeup, in addition to a quality curveball. His athleticism and improved delivery have allowed him to consistently pound the strike zone.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
2 2 4.00 7 7 0 36 31 5 8 49

Ian Anderson, RHP
Age: 21
Source: Shenendehowa HS, Clifton Park, N.Y.
Ht: 6′ 3 • Wt: 170 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Braves in first round (third overall) of 2016 draft; signed June 25, 2016.

Background: Anderson was one of the top pitchers in the 2016 draft as his feel for three above-average pitches and projectable body intrigued teams.

What To Look For: Anderson attacks hitters with a fastball that tops out at 97 mph and a mid- to upper-70s curveball that has 12-to-6 break. While his changeup is his third pitch, it has deception and solid sink.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
5 5 3.20 15 15 0 78.2 60 7 41 99

Ben Bowden, LHP
Age: 24
Source: Vanderbilt
Ht: 6′ 4 • Wt: 235 • B-T: L-L
How Acquired: Selected by Rockies in second round of 2016 draft; signed June 15, 2016

Background: One of the top prep arms in the 2016 draft, Bowden is a big-bodied lefthander with a three-pitch mix.

What To Look For: Bowden has a closer’s mentality on the mound and works with a fastball-changeup combo that is tough for hitters to square up.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
0 0 1.30 28 0 20 27.2 10 2 8 43

MacKenzie Gore, LHP
Age: 20
Source: Whiteville (N.C.) HS.
Ht: 6′ 3 • Wt: 195 • B-T: L-L
How Acquired: Selected by Padres in first round (third overall) of 2017 draft; signed June 24, 2017

Background: Gore was viewed as the top prep arm in his draft class with excellent stuff and a projectable body.

What To Look For: The lefthander gets excellent extension off the mound and works with a four-pitch mix that includes a promising curveball and slider.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
6 1 1.23 13 13 0 65.2 30 4 16 92

Anthony Kay, LHP
Age: 24
Source: UConn
Ht: 6′ 0 • Wt: 218 • B-T: L-L
How Acquired: Selected by Mets in first round (31st overall) of 2016 draft; signed July 13, 2016.

Background: The former Connecticut ace impressed evaluators with his fastball-changeup combination and strike-throwing ability.

What To Look For: Kay works with a fastball in the low to mid-90s and has developed a power curveball that has an elite spin rate.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
7 5 2.63 15 15 0 75.1 53 4 27 80

Dustin May, RHP
Age: 21
Source: Northwest HS, Justin, Texas.
Ht: 6′ 6 • Wt: 180 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Dodgers in third round of 2016 draft; signed June 20, 2016.

Background: May showed off arm strength and feel to spin a future plus breaking ball as a prep righthander but he’s added significant velocity since then.

What To Look For: May has command of his fastball that features plus sink. He also shows a promising cutter and power curveball to keep hitters off-balance.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
3 5 3.74 15 15 0 79.1 71 5 20 86

Adrian Morejon, RHP
Age: 20
Source: Havana, Cuba.
Ht: 6′ 1 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Signed as international free agent by Padres, July 7, 2016.

Background: The MVP of the 15U World Cup in Mexico in 2015, Morejon established himself as one of the premier arms of the July 2016 international signing period.

What To Look For: Morejon works with three pitches, featuring a fastball that touches 98 mph and high-spin rate curveball.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
0 4 5.46 12 12 0 28 28 3 14 36

Luis Patino, RHP
Age: 19
Source: Barranquilla, Colombia.
Ht: 6′ 0 • Wt: 192 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Signed as international free agent by Padres, July 2, 2016.

Background: Patiño is a converted shortstop who showed good velocity and feel to throw a changeup as an international amateur.

What To Look For: Patiño’s fastball has easy velocity, reaching up to 99 mph, and he is able to put hitters away with a mid-80s slider that is the best in the Padres’ system.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
4 6 3.15 12 11 0 54.1 39 3 26 67

Sixto Sanchez, RHP
Age: 20
Source: San Cristobal, Dominican Republic.
Ht: 6′ 4 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Traded by Phillies with C Jorge Alfaro, LHP Will Stewart and 2018-19 international bonus pool money to Marlins for C J.T. Realmuto, Feb. 7, 2019.

Background: The former infielder impressed scouts with his arm strength and easy delivery.

What To Look For: Sanchez has a three-pitch mix including a triple-digit fastball and plus slider with a developing changeup that has flashed plus as well.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
3 4 3.38 10 10 0 56 62 3 9 50

Devin Williams, RHP
Age: 24
Source: Hazelwood (Mo.) West HS.
Ht: 6′ 3 • Wt: 165 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Brewers in second round of 2013 draft; signed June 16, 2013.

Background: Williams caught the attention of scouts with his projectable frame and noticeable jump in fastball velocity as an amateur.

What To Look For: Williams has a three-pitch mix that includes a mid-90s fastball and slider.

W L ERA G GS SV IP H HR BB SO
6 2 2.76 24 0 1 45.2 33 3 29 62

Miguel Amaya, C
Age: 20
Source: Chitre, Panama.
Ht: 6′ 1 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Signed as international free agent by Cubs, July 17, 2015.

Background: Amaya played for Panama at international tournaments as an amateur and was the top prospect in the country in 2015, when the Cubs signed him for $1 million.

What To Look For: Pitchers like throwing to Amaya, a bilingual speaker and a quiet receiver with soft hands and an above-average arm.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.208 183 38 11 0 5 33 44 1 .344 .350

Joey Bart, C
Age: 22
Source: Georgia Tech.
Ht: 6′ 2 • Wt: 235 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Giants in first round (second overall) of 2018 draft; signed June 16, 2018.

Background: Bart was a prominent prospect coming out of high school, but instead of signing he went to Georgia Tech, where he became a first-team All-American and the No. 2 overall pick in 2017.

What To Look For: Bart has the potential to impact the game on both sides of the ball, a power-hitting catcher with a chance to develop into a plus defender.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.245 98 24 4 2 5 6 21 1 .308 .480

Daulton Varsho, C
Age: 22
Source: Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
Ht: 5′ 10 • Wt: 190 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Diamondbacks in supplemental second round of 2017 draft; signed June 18, 2017

Background: The son of former major league outfielder Gary Varsho, Daulton posted big college numbers in the Horizon League, and he’s continued to hit well through Double-A.

What To Look For: Varsho’s compact swing and barrel awareness lead to a high contact rate, and unlike most catchers, his speed is another weapon in his offensive-minded skill set.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.258 221 57 11 0 9 22 33 9 .340 .430

Alec Bohm, 3B
Age: 22
Source: Wichita State.
Ht: 6′ 5 • Wt: 225 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Phillies in first round (third overall) of 2018 draft; signed June 11, 2018.

Background: Bohm was the No. 3 overall pick in 2018, so it was a surprise when the Phillies had him open the year in low Class A Lakewood, but he has breezed through to Double-A in his first full season.

What To Look For: At 6-foot-5, Bohm has the strength, bat speed and leverage in his swing to generate plus power. With his disciplined approach, he’s also a good pure hitter as well.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.327 257 84 20 3 8 33 41 4 .405 .521

Will Craig, 1B
Age: 24
Source: Wake Forest.
Ht: 6′ 3 • Wt: 212 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Pirates in first round (22nd overall) of 2016 draft; signed June 15, 2016.

Background: Craig hit .379/.520/.731 as a junior at Wake Forest in 2016, when he ranked third in the country in slugging and went to the Pirates with the No. 22 overall pick in the draft.

What To Look For: Craig’s power is his biggest tool, and he’s having his best season yet in terms of home runs and slugging.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.262 271 71 12 0 16 26 72 2 .344 .483

Isan Diaz, 2B
Age: 23
Source: Springfield Central (Mass.) HS.
Ht: 5′ 10 • Wt: 185 • B-T: L-R
How Acquired: Traded by Brewers with OFs Lewis Brinson and Monte Harrison and RHP Jordan Yamamoto to Marlins for OF Christian Yelich, Jan. 25, 2018.

Background: A second-round pick of the D-backs in 2014, Diaz has been traded twice already, first to the Brewers for Jean Segura in Jan. 2016, then two years later to the Marlins for Christian Yelich.

What To Look For: Diaz has a sweet lefthanded stroke with a patient hitting approach and above-average raw power.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.289 263 76 14 2 16 32 66 1 .376 .540

Nolan Gorman, 3B
Age: 19
Source: O’Connor HS, Phoenix.
Ht: 6′ 1 • Wt: 210 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Cardinals in first round (19th overall) of 2018 draft; signed June 11, 2018.

Background: After signing with the Cardinals as the No. 19 overall pick in 2018, Gorman immediately showed his power by smashing 17 home runs in 63 games.

What To Look For: Gorman’s plus-plus raw power makes him a threat to go deep to any part of the park, putting on a show in batting practice and translating it to games as well.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.239 255 61 14 3 11 34 84 2 .345 .447

Carter Kieboom, SS
Age: 21
Source: Walton HS, Marietta, Ga.
Ht: 6′ 2 • Wt: 190 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Nationals in first round (28th overall) of 2016 draft; signed June 16, 2016.

Background: Kieboom has quickly climbed through the Nationals’ system, making his major league debut in a brief trial and annihilating Triple-A pitching the rest of the year.

What To Look For: Kieboom’s bat is his calling card, projecting as a plus hitter with a disciplined eye for the strike zone.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.329 207 68 16 3 13 44 49 3 .455 .623

Gavin Lux, SS
Age: 21
Source: Indian Trail HS, Kenosha, Wis.
Ht: 6′ 2 • Wt: 190 • B-T: L-R
How Acquired: Selected by Dodgers in first round (20th overall) of 2016 draft; signed June 15, 2016.

Background: Lux played high school baseball in cold-weather Wisconsin, but his talent stood out enough for the Dodgers to make him the No. 20 overall pick in 2016.

What To Look For: Lux is a potential .300 hitter with good pitch recognition, balance and a barrel that stays through the hitting zone for a long time.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.313 259 81 7 4 13 28 60 7 .380 .521

Dylan Carlson, OF
Age: 20
Source: Elk Grove (Calif.) HS.
Ht: 6′ 2 • Wt: 205 • B-T: S-L
How Acquired: Selected by Cardinals in first round (33rd overall) of 2016 draft; signed June 15, 2016.

Background: Carlson played for his father, Jeff, at storied Elk Grove High and became the program’s second first-round pick in three years.

What To Look For: Carlson’s baseball instincts are advanced for his age and put him in good positions to hit, steal bases or make diving catches in the outfield.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.280 268 75 15 6 10 33 57 11 .369 .493

Monte Harrison, OF
Age: 23
Source: Lee’s Summit (Mo.) West HS.
Ht: 6′ 3 • Wt: 220 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Traded by Brewers with OF Lewis Brinson, 2B Isan Diaz and RHP Jordan Yamamoto to Marlins for OF Christian Yelich, Jan. 25, 2018.

Background: A star wide receiver recruit in addition to baseball standout, Harrison was committed to play both football and baseball at Nebraska but opted to sign with the Marlins as a second-round pick in 2014.

What To Look For: Harrison has begun making more contact to complement his supreme speed, power and defense, making him an electric and well-rounded player.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.286 182 52 5 2 9 23 63 20 .375 .484

Cristian Pache, OF
Age: 20
Source: Santo Domingo Centro, D.R.
Ht: 6′ 2 • Wt: 185 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Signed as international free agent by Braves, July 3, 2015.

Background: An elbow injury slowed him as an amateur, but Pache still stood out as one of the top international prospects in 2015 and signed with the Braves for $1.4 million.

What To Look For: Pache’s speed, athleticism and defense have long earned rave reviews from scouts. Now it’s his power—once a question mark—has transformed into another weapon in his game.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.295 268 79 19 5 10 24 69 7 .354 .515

Heliot Ramos, OF
Age: 19
Source: Leadership Christian Academy HS, Guaynabo, P.R.
Ht: 6′ 1 • Wt: 188 • B-T: R-R
How Acquired: Selected by Giants in first round (19th overall) of 2017 draft; signed June 20, 2017

Background: The younger brother of minor league outfielder Henry Ramos and Puerto Rican national soccer team member Hector Ramos, Heliot’s physicality and athletic bloodlines helped him become the highest-drafted player from Puerto Rico since Carlos Correa.

What To Look For: Ramos’ quick bat yields a lot of hard lines drives, and he is capable of the occasional highlight-reel catch in the outfield, too.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.282 156 44 11 0 9 20 46 2 .378 .526

Alek Thomas, OF
Age: 19
Source: Mount Carmel HS, Chicago.
Ht: 5′ 11 • Wt: 175 • B-T: L-L
How Acquired: Selected by Diamondbacks in second round of 2018 draft; signed June 12, 2018.

Background: Thomas, the son of White Sox strength coach Allen Thomas, was one of the best athletes in the 2018 draft and was committed to play both football and baseball at Texas Christian before signing with the D-backs.

What To Look For: Though undersized, Thomas covers plenty of ground in the outfield and has an innate ability to find the barrel.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.294 238 70 13 4 7 34 53 8 .387 .471

Taylor Trammell, OF
Age: 21
Source: Mount Paran Christian HS, Kennesaw, Ga.
Ht: 6′ 2 • Wt: 215 • B-T: L-L
How Acquired: Selected by Reds in supplemental first round (35th overall) of 2016 draft; signed June 13, 2016.

Background: A star running back in high school, Trammell made a name for himself with his blazing speed and has progressively added to the rest of his game.

What To Look For: Trammell won Futures Game MVP last year with a triple and a 438-foot home run and will be on a mission to repeat his award-winning performance.

AVG AB H 2B 3B HR BB SO SB OBP SLG
.245 216 53 5 1 4 28 66 13 .366 .333

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