MiLB.com is currently releasing their top 50 prospects as determined by a survey of 20 members of the scouting community. Two Nationals have popped up in the 31-40 range.
Marrero’s draft stock had dropped during his senior year of high school, but not enough for the Nationals to pass on him in the first round. He quickly jumped on the fast track in his first full year, moving up to the Class A Advanced Carolina League as a teenager. The kid can flat-out hit. He can hit for both average and power and should also draw a fair number of walks with his excellent approach at the plate, especially for someone so young. A converted third baseman, his outfield play was fine, flashing a decent arm from left field. He’s never going to be a threat to steal bases.
That bat will get Marrero to the big leagues in a hurry. The Nats’ system is deeper than it’s been in the past, but Washington won’t get in Marrero’s way. He won’t turn 20 until July, but look for him at the upper levels of the Minors in short order, with a September callup a possibility.
Just because Detwiler is so slight, don’t mistake him for a finesse lefty. He’s got outstanding stuff, with four options — two fastballs (two- and four-seamers), a curve and a changeup. He improved his command considerably during his junior season of college, helping make him a top 10 pick.
After just nine games and 33 1/3 innings in the Minors, Detwiler was rewarded with a callup to Washington and a spot on the 40-man roster. He threw just one inning, but it was a sign that he likely isn’t long for the Nats’ farm system. While it’s unlikely you’ll see him in Washington on Opening Day, a 2008 arrival isn’t out of the question.
Thomas | 27-Nov-07 at 11:31 am | Permalink
Wow. That is incredible optimism as regards to young Mr. Marrero. I would have to consider it a successful season for the Nationals if Chris were to make it to the bigs by September and hold his own up there. I am getting excited just thinking about it!
EdDC | 27-Nov-07 at 12:25 pm | Permalink
That’s the first I’ve heard of Marrero having “fine” outfield play.
As a former 3B, you expect his arm to be “decent,” but the rest of the improvement (if it is true) is good news. Do you have anything more on his defense, Brian? I thought maybe the Nats were going to focus him on 1B more?
estuartj | 27-Nov-07 at 3:45 pm | Permalink
Do we know the criteria for selecting and ranking prospects in these publications? Is it projected ability or how close they are to being MLB ready that matters most?
For instance Smiley Gonzales may be the most talented player in our system in terms of potential, but he is only 17 and could be 4-5 yrs away for the bigs. Conversly Josh Whitesell is probably destined to be no more than a backup 1B/PH, but has a decnd chance of breaking into the bigs this spring.
This is even more true of pitchers, who is the better “prospect” Detwiler or Smoker? Zimmerman or Willems, etc.
Brian Oliver | 27-Nov-07 at 3:55 pm | Permalink
MiLB surveyed 20 members of the scouting community who provided their individual list of top propsects which was then combined into one list. I’d imagine there is quite a bit of individual bias built into the rankings