Top Performers: Saturday, July 18, 2009

Class AAA
Jon Niese, Buffalo (International): 7 IP, 2 H
Daniel Descalso, Memphis (Pacific Coast): 3-5, HR, 5 RBI
Mitchell Boggs, Memphis (Pacific Coast): 7 IP, 2 H
John Lindsey, New Orleans (Pacific Coast): 2-4, 2 HR, 3 RBI

Class AA
Joe Savery, Reading (Eastern): first loss after twelve straight wins
Samuel Deduno, Tulsa (Texas): 7 IP, 3 H

Class A-Advanced
Cory Riordan, Modesto (California): 8 IP, 1 R, 5 H, 9 SO
Ian Gac, Bakersfield (California): 2-4, walk-off HR
Danny Duffy, Wilmington (Carolina): 7 IP, 1 R, 2 H, 7 SO
Michael Bertram, Lakeland (Florida State): 4-5, 4 RS, 2B, 3B, HR (cycle)
Christopher Carpenter, Daytona (Florida State): 5 IP, 1 H, 9 SO

Class A
Mark Sorensen, West Michigan (Midwest): 8 IP, 2 H
Stiven Osuna, Fort Wayne (Midwest): 6 IP, 1 H, 10 SO
Eric Beaulac, Savannah (South Atlantic): 5.2 IP, 2 R, 0 ER, 1 H, 7 SO
Kiel Roling, Asheville (South Atlantic): 2-4, 2 HR, 5 RBI

Class A-Short Season
J.D. Martinez, Tri-City (New York-Penn): 3-4, 2 HR, 3 RBI
John Servidio, Brooklyn (New York-Penn): 2-3, 2 HR, 3 RBI

Class Rookie
Gerlis Rodriguez, Pirates (Gulf Coast): 4-4, 2 HR, 4 RBI
Brian Cavazos-Galvez, Ogden (Pioneer): 3-5, 2 HR, 4 RBI
Jose Colmenares, Rays (Venezuelan Summer): 2-2, 2 HR, 4 RBI

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Collin Cowgill Is A Beast

A few days ago, I wrote a brief post about Collin Cowgill, outfielder for Arizona’s Low A affiliate in Yakima, who started his professional career by slugging homeruns at a pretty impressive pace: six in the Bears’ first eleven games.  At the time, I jokingly suggested that Cowgill’s early productivity should earn him a spot on the Diamondback’s major league roster.

This was before I realized that Cowgill is an absolute BEAST with a 33-inch piece of ash in his hands (I don’t know if he uses ash or maple, but I’ve always thought that ash sounds better; I think of maples, I think of the trees with the pretty leaves that changed colors in my back yard when I was a kid.  Ash trees didn’t have time for silly little things like “leaves”).

Wednesday night, Cowgill went 4-6 with four runs scored and five batted in, but that’s not the best part: he also hit three homeruns, bringing his season total to an unbelievable ten in fifteen games.  For a little perspective on that, consider this: three players are currently tied for second place with three homeruns for the entire season.  Cowgill has one more homer than the three guys behind him combined.

Last season’s leader, Ian Gac (GAC!), had 17 roundtrippers in 70 games; in 2005, Freddie Thon and Luis Valbuena tied for the lead with 12.  Twelve!  My man Collin (with two L’s) should top that by Monday.

If the slightly built righty (5’9″, 195 lbs, and he throws lefty, which is just weird) continues jacking longballs at this pace, he also has a chance at the all-time short-season record of 25, set by William Darkis way back in 1980.  That is a lot of homeruns in not a lot of games.  Cowgill is currently on pace for 50 (and I’m not even rounding up – it’s actually 50.667)! 

And after that, he’s goin’ to South Bend (Silver Hawks), and then he’s goin’ to Visalia (Oaks – say hi to Crash Davis), and Mobile (BayBears), and Tucson (Sidewinders – I hate snakes, Jacques, I hate ’em), and Arizona (Diamondbacks), heeeeeeeeyaaaaaaaaah! (/pointless and confusing Howard Dean reference)

The Z-Meter: 7/1/2008

The Z-meter tracks the story arcs of 25 top prospects (or players we just like) on their way to the bigs. It is named after current Washington Nationals star Ryan Zimmerman, who made the transition from anchoring the University of Virginia to starring in MLB in one year.

Promoted:

Evan Longoria, 3B, Durham (AAA) to Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
Luke Hochevar, RHP, Omaha (AAA) to Kansas City Royals (MLB)
Max Scherzer, RHP, Tucson (AAA) to Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
Clayton Kershaw, LHP, Jacksonville (AA) to Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Jay Bruce, OF, Louisville (AAA) to Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
Homer Bailey, RHP, Louisville (AAA) to Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
Ian Stewart, 3B, Colorado Springs (AAA) to Colorado Rockies (MLB)
Carlos Gonzalez, OF, Sacramento (AAA) to Oakland (MLB)
Chase Headley, 3B, Portland (AAA) to San Diego (MLB)
Eulogio De La Cruz, RHP, Albuquerque (AAA) to Marlins (MLB)
Joe Koshansky, 1B, Colorado Springs (AAA) to Rockies (MLB)

Justin Masterson, RHP, Portland (AA) to Boston (MLB)

Jeff Samardzija, RHP, Tennessee (AA) to Iowa (AAA)
Luke Montz, C, Harrisburg (AA) to Columbus (AAA)

Antonio Bastardo, LHP, Clearwater (A) to Reading (AA)
David Price, LHP, Vero Beach (A) to Montgomery (AA)
Matt Weiters, C, Frederick Keys (A) to Bowie Baysox (AA)

Travis Snider, OF, Dunedin (A-Advanced) to New Hampshire (AA)

Ian Gac, 1B, Clinton (A) to Bakersfield (Advanced A)
Jhoulys Chacin, RHP, Asheville (A) to Modesto (Advanced A)

Josh Vitters, 3B, Boise (Short A) to Peoria (A)

Since we’ll all be traveling and BBQing during the upcoming long weekend, I’m just going to go ahead and post the Z-meter early, and hopefully just take the time to update it on Saturday or Sunday to keep us all current.

The dam broke this week. Several players who had been playing well for long stretches got their marching orders. Jeff Samardzija moved up from AA to AAA, as did Catcher Luke Montz. Matt Weiters and David Price made the move from A to double-A. Ian Gac and Jhoulys Chacin parlayed hot first halves in low A into second seasons in high A.

Samardzija is the strangest mover of all. He has lost far more games than he has won. He doesn’t strike a lot of guys out. And yet he advances easily. If anyone has a theory or, better yet, inside info on the improbable rise of The Shark, let me know.

**Update** Here’s an exchange that took place in Paul Sullivan’s Mailbag regarding Shark:

Paul, why did the Cubs promote Jeff Samardzija to Triple-A rather than Donald Veal? Veal has much better numbers at Double-A. Is it the large contract given to Samardzija, or do the Cubs think he has a higher MLB upside? –Randy, Denver

The Cubs say Samardzija earned the promotion due to his recent success in Double-A, and he’s pitched well at Iowa in his first couple of starts. I would imagine they’re getting him ready to come up as a right-handed reliever for the stretch run, and since they gave him a $10 million contract, they probably figure they need to start getting their money’s worth, starting this year. Lots of pressure on Samardzija? Of course. But I think he dealt with a little bit of that on Saturday afternoons in South Bend, so he should be able to handle it.

[ChicagoSports.com]

So, you know… he might not be ready, but we paid him a lot of money, so here goes!

Let’s see who else is hot this week:

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The top level. These prospects are in AAA in the prime of their youth, and ready for the call that will change their lives.

Andrew McCutchen, CF – Indianapolis Indians (Pirates): .281 – 47R – 8HR – 33RBI – 21SB – 35BB – .415 SLG – .777 OPS

Matt Tuiasosopo, 3B – Tacoma Rainiers (Mariners): .252 – 41R – 5HR – 36 RBI – 24BB – 1SB – .395 SLG – .730 OPS

Colby Rasmus, LF – Memphis Redbirds (Cardinals): .253 – 53R – 11HR – 36RBI – 12SB – 48BB – .410 SLG – .765 OPS

Nelson Cruz, RF – Oklahoma Redhawks (Rangers): .352 – 71R – 24HR – 69RBI – 18SB – 47BB – .705 SLG – 1.157 OPS

Jeff Samardzija, RHP – Iowa Cubs (Cubs): 2GS – 1W – 1L – 3.00 – 8BB – 9K

Luke Montz, C – Columbus Clippers (Nationals): .000 – 1R – 0HR – 0RBI – 1BB – 0SB – .000 SLG – .125 OPS

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These guys also have the potential to skip straight to the majors, but are more likely to get promoted to the top of this meter first.

Kila Kaaihue, 1B – Northwest Arkansas Naturals (Royals): .281 – 36R – 18HR – 48RBI – 54BB – 3SB – .567 SLG – .999 OPS

Austin Jackson, OF – Trenton Thunder (Yankees): .2874 – 47R – 7HR – 46RBI – 41BB – 13SB – .428 SLG – .783 OPS

Jacob McGee, LHP (injured) – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 15GS – 6W – 4L – 3.94 ERA – 37BB – 65K

Cameron Maybin, CF – Carolina Mudcats (Marlins): .266 – 54R – 12HR – 36RBI – 42BB – 16SB – .472 SLG – .833 OPS

Wade Davis, RHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 17GS – 7W – 6L – 4.14 ERA – 39BB – 69K

Elvis Andrus, SS – Frisco RoughRiders (Rangers): .279 – 45R – 1HR – 31RBI – 19BB – 26SB – .337 SLG – .676 OPS

Travis Snider, RF – New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Blue Jays): .273 – 40R – 11HR – 45RBI – 30BB – 1SB – .458 SLG – .816 OPS

Antonio Bastardo, LHP (injured) – Reading Phillies (Phillies): 9GS – 2W – 3L – 3.11 ERA – 29BB – 39K

Matt Wieters, C – Bowie Baysox (Orioles): .214 – 4R – 0HR – 2RBI – 2BB – 0SB – .286 SLG – .598 OPS

Matt LaPorta, CF – Huntsville Stars (Brewers): .294 – 52R – 19HR – 63RBI – 41BB – 2SB – .592 SLG – .999 OPS

Mat Gamel, 3B – Huntsville Stars (Brewers): .379 – 69R – 15HR – 70RBI – 37BB – 5SB – .636 SLG – 1.078 OPS

David Price, LHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 1GS – 1W – 0L – 3.00 ERA – 4BB – 7K

Fernando Martinez, CF – Binghamton Mets (Mets): .299 – 23R – 4HR – 19RBI – 8BB – 0SB – .443 SLG – .778 OPS

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These guys have vast potential but need to work out some kinks in A-ball before they can advance.

Ian Gac, 1B – Bakersfield Blaze (Rangers): .438 – 4R – 1HR – 4RBI – 0BB – 1SB – .750 SLG – 1.152 OPS

Lars Anderson, 1B – Lancaster JetHawks (Red Sox): .304 – 45R – 8HR – 37RBI – 41BB – 0SB – .474 SLG – .877 OPS

Jhoulys Chacin, RHP – Modesto Nuts (Rockies): 1GS – 1W – 0L – 0.00 ERA – 1BB – 8K

Rick Porcello, RHP – Lakeland Flying Tigers (Detroit): 15GS – 4W – 6L – 2.73 ERA – 20BB – 46K

Mike Moustakas, SS – Burlington Bees (Royals): .242 – 39R – 12HR – 41RBI – 21BB – 4SB – .414 SLG – .712 OPS

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Prospects chosen from Diamond Cutter’s Top 25, Baseball America, and my own irrational sense of whimsy.

The Z-Meter: 6/12/2008

The Z-meter tracks the story arcs of 25 top prospects (or players we just like) on their way to the bigs. It is named after current Washington Nationals star Ryan Zimmerman, who made the transition from anchoring the University of Virginia to starring in MLB in one year.

Promoted:

Evan Longoria, 3B, Durham (AAA) to Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
Luke Hochevar, RHP, Omaha (AAA) to Kansas City Royals (MLB)
Max Scherzer, RHP, Tucson (AAA) to Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
Clayton Kershaw, LHP, Jacksonville (AA) to Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Jay Bruce, OF, Louisville (AAA) to Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
Homer Bailey, RHP, Louisville (AAA) to Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
Ian Stewart, 3B, Colorado Springs (AAA) to Colorado Rockies (MLB)
Carlos Gonzalez, OF, Sacramento (AAA) to Oaklans (MLB)

Justin Masterson, RHP, Portland (AA) to Boston (MLB)

Antonio Bastardo, LHP, Clearwater (A) to Reading (AA)

Travis Snider, OF, Dunedin (A-Advanced) to New Hampshire (AA)

Josh Vitters, 3B, Boise (Short A) to Peoria (A)

Now that I’ve finally caught up with who’s in the show and who isn’t, I’ve added a few new faces around here. Austin Jackson is a hot-hitting center fielder in the Yankees organization, and he happens to play for the Trenton Thunder, who have been featured in these pages many times. Also, OMDQ’s selection, David Price, a left-hander in the Rays organization (man, are they loaded!). Nice to see the Vero Beach A-ball club isn’t afraid of the religious fundamentalists in Florida – they’re still Devil Rays, according to their site.

Let’s see who else is hot this week:

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The top level. These prospects are in AAA in the prime of their youth, and ready for the call that will change their lives.

Chase Headley, LF – Portland Beavers (San Diego): .301 – 44R – 10HR – 35RBI – 0SB – 27BB – .522 SLG – .897 OPS

Andrew McCutchen, CF – Indianapolis Indians (Pirates): .289 – 40R – 8HR – 26RBI – 19SB – .446 SLG – .823 OPS

Joe Koshansky, 1B – Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Rockies): .305 – 41R – 14HR – 25BB – 61RBI – 0SB – .619 SLG – 1.000 OPS

Colby Rasmus, LF – Memphis Redbirds (Cardinals): .225 – 39R – 9HR – 25RBI – 9SB – .371 SLG – .696 OPS

Nelson Cruz, RF – Oklahoma Redhawks (Rangers): .330 – 51R – 19HR – 47RBI – 14SB – .684 SLG – 1.128 OPS

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These guys also have the potential to skip straight to the majors, but are more likely to get promoted to the top of this meter first.

Kila Kaaihue, 1B – Northwest Arkansas Naturals (Royals): .270 – 24R – 13HR – 40RBI – 37BB – 1SB – .535 SLG – .942 OPS

Austin Jackson, OF – Trenton Thunder (Yankees): .275 – 35R – 3HR – 37RBI – 10SB – 33BB – .410 SLG – .771 OPS

Fernando Martinez, CF (injured) – Binghamton Mets (Mets): .280 – 19R – 3HR – 16RBI – 3SB – .408 SLG – .721 OPS

Jacob McGee, LHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 12GS – 6W – 3L – 3.84 ERA – 27BB – 60K

Cameron Maybin, CF – Carolina Mudcats (Marlins): .264 – 45R – 12HR – 29RBI – 13SB – .498 SLG – .864 OPS

Wade Davis, RHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 13GS – 6W – 4L – 3.80 ERA – 28BB – 54K

Elvis Andrus, SS – Frisco RoughRiders (Rangers): .268 – 31R – 0HR – 19RBI – 12BB – 19SB – .316 SLG – .638 OPS

Jeff Samardzija, P – Tennessee Smokies (Cubs): 13GS – 3W – 5L – 5.32 ERA – 37BB – 41K

Luke Montz, C – Harrisburg Senators (Nationals): .314 – 26R – 12HR – 46RBI – 19BB – 0SB – .597 SLG – .981 OPS

Travis Snider, RF – New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Blue Jays): .273 – 30R – 8HR – 35RBI – 26BB – 0SB – .459 SLG – .832 OPS

Antonio Bastardo, LHP – Reading Phillies (Phillies): 8GS – 2W – 2L – 3.35 ERA – 25BB – 35K

Matt LaPorta, CF – Huntsville Stars (Brewers): .298 – 46R – 18HR – 54RBI – 1SB – .617 SLG – 1.028 OPS

Mat Gamel, 3B – Huntsville Stars (Brewers): .376 – 59R – 14HR – 59RBI – 5SB – .654 SLG – 1.097 OPS

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These guys have vast potential but need to work out some kinks in A-ball before they can advance.

Ian Gac, 1B – Clinton LumberKings (Rangers): .325 – 46R – 17HR – 52RBI – 32BB – 1SB – .641 SLG – 1.072 OPS

Lars Anderson, 1B – Lancaster JetHawks (Red Sox): .316 – 35R – 7HR – 33RBI – 0SB – .505 SLG – .914 OPS

David Price, LHP – Vero Beach Devil Rays (Rays): 4GS – 2W – 0L – 1.16 ERA – 3BB – 23K

Rick Porcello, RHP – Lakeland Flying Tigers (Detroit): 13GS – 3W – 6L – 2.94 ERA – 19BB – 41K

Matt Wieters, C – Frederick Keys (Orioles): .340 – 44R – 14HR – 37RBI – 34BB – 1SB – .588 SLG – 1.025 OPS

Mike Moustakas, SS – Burlington Bees (Royals): .225 – 27R – 8HR – 29RBI – 4SB – .375 SLG – .656 OPS

Jhoulys Chacin, RHP – Asheville Tourists (Rockies): 13 GS – 10W – 1L – 1.96 ERA – 24BB – 80K

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Prospects chosen from Diamond Cutter’s Top 25, Baseball America, and my own irrational sense of whimsy.

The Z-Meter 6/5/2008: Homer’s Odyssey

The Z-meter tracks the story arcs of 25 top prospects (or players we just like) on their way to the bigs. It is named after current Washington Nationals star Ryan Zimmerman, who made the transition from anchoring the University of Virginia to starring in MLB in one year.

Promoted:

Evan Longoria, 3B, Durham (AAA) to Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
Luke Hochevar, RHP, Omaha (AAA) to Kansas City Royals (MLB)
Max Scherzer, RHP, Tucson (AAA) to Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
Clayton Kershaw, LHP, Jacksonville (AA) to Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)
Jay Bruce, OF, Louisville (AAA) to Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
Homer Bailey, RHP, Louisville (AAA) to Cincinnati Reds (MLB)
Ian Stewart, 3B, Colorado Springs (AAA) to Colorado Rockies (MLB)

Justin Masterson, RHP, Portland (AA) to Pawtucket (AAA)

Antonio Bastardo, LHP, Clearwater (A) to Reading (AA)

Travis Snider, OF, Dunedin (A-Advanced) to New Hampshire (AA)

Josh Vitters, 3B, Boise (Short A) to Peoria (A)

As OMDQ pointed out yesterday, Homer Bailey was just brought up to the big leagues for the second time in his career, though to less fanfare than his outfielder buddy Jay Bruce. With him gone, I’ll be looking for someone new to add, and I have a guy I like on two grounds – he plays for a Royals affiliate (my hometown club) and he has an awesome Hawaiian name. Kila Kaaihue, this is everyone. Everyone, this is Kila.

Colorado’s Joe Koshansky hit for the cycle a couple of days ago, so he’s hot again. June been berry, berry good to Cameron Maybin, as he has hit .616 since turning the page on his calendar. Jhoulys Chacin only had one K in his last start, but still notched his 9th win against only one loss.

Let’s see who else is hot this week:

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The top level. These prospects are in AAA in the prime of their youth, and ready for the call that will change their lives.

Chase Headley, LF – Portland Beavers (San Diego): .301 – 41R – 10HR – 30RBI – 0SB – 22BB – .522 SLG – .891 OPS

Andrew McCutchen, CF (Reserve List) – Indianapolis Indians (Pirates): .282 – 36R – 7HR – 24RBI – 17SB – .441 SLG – .814 OPS

Carlos Gonzalez, RF – Sacramento River Cats (Athletics): .293 – 23R – 4HR – 25RBI – 14BB – 1SB – .439 SLG – .790 OPS

Joe Koshansky, 1B – Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Rockies): .307 – 39R – 13HR – 22BB – 55RBI – 0SB – .615 SLG – .996 OPS

Colby Rasmus, LF – Memphis Redbirds (Cardinals): .225 – 34R – 8HR – 24RBI – 7SB – .367 SLG – .690 OPS

Nelson Cruz, RF – Oklahoma Redhawks (Rangers): .335 – 48R – 18HR – 45RBI – 14SB – .708 SLG – 1.157 OPS

Justin Masterson, RHP – Pawtucket Red Sox (Red Sox): 1GS – 1W – 0L – 1.50 ERA – 1BB – 4K

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These guys also have the potential to skip straight to the majors, but are more likely to get promoted to the top of this meter first.

Kila Kaaihue, 1B – Northwest Arkansas Naturals (Royals): .292 – 21R – 11HR – 37RBI – 1SB – .555 SLG – .985 OPS

Fernando Martinez, CF (injured) – Binghamton Mets (Mets): .280 – 19R – 3HR – 16RBI – 3SB – .408 SLG – .721 OPS

Jacob McGee, LHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 11GS – 5W – 3L – 3.77 ERA – 24BB – 58K

Cameron Maybin, CF – Carolina Mudcats (Marlins): .267 – 41R – 10HR – 24RBI – 13SB – .481 SLG – .850 OPS

Wade Davis, RHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 12GS – 6W – 3L – 3.15 ERA – 27BB – 52K

Elvis Andrus, SS – Frisco RoughRiders (Rangers): .268 – 31R – 0HR – 19RBI – 12BB – 19SB – .316 SLG – .638 OPS

Jeff Samardzija, P – Tennessee Smokies (Cubs): 12GS – 3W – 5L – 5.34 ERA – 33BB – 37K

Luke Montz, C – Harrisburg Senators (Nationals): .353 – 25R – 11HR – 44RBI – 18BB – 0SB – .662 SLG – 1.085 OPS

Travis Snider, RF – New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Blue Jays): .235 – 24R – 8HR – 31RBI – 0SB – .425 SLG – .765 OPS

Antonio Bastardo, LHP – Reading Phillies (Phillies): 6GS – 2W – 2L – 4.09 ERA – 19BB – 26K

Matt LaPorta, CF – Huntsville Stars (Brewers): .293 – 43R – 15HR – 50RBI – 1SB – .600 SLG – 1.002 OPS

Mat Gamel, 3B – Huntsville Stars (Brewers): .384 – 56R – 13HR – 51RBI – 4SB – .671 SLG – 1.120 OPS

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These guys have vast potential but need to work out some kinks in A-ball before they can advance.

Ian Gac, 1B – Clinton LumberKings (Rangers): .328 – 42R – 16HR – 49RBI – 30BB – 1SB – .672 SLG – 1.114 OPS

Lars Anderson, 1B (injured) – Lancaster JetHawks (Red Sox): .280 – 30R – 7HR – 26RBI – 0SB – .488 SLG – .872 OPS

Rick Porcello, RHP – Lakeland Flying Tigers (Detroit): 12GS – 3W – 6L – 2.87 ERA – 17BB – 36K

Matt Wieters, C – Frederick Keys (Orioles): .324 – 37R – 12HR – 33RBI – 29BB – 1SB – .566 SLG -.987 OPS

Mike Moustakas, SS – Burlington Bees (Royals): .241 – 25R – 8HR – 27RBI – 4SB – .410 SLG – .706 OPS

Jhoulys Chacin, RHP – Asheville Tourists (Rockies): 12 GS – 9W – 1L – 1.84 ERA – 23BB – 74K

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Prospects chosen from Diamond Cutter’s Top 25, Baseball America, and my own irrational sense of whimsy.

The Z-Meter: 5/22/2008

The Z-meter tracks the story arcs of 25 top prospects (or players we just like) on their way to the bigs. It is named after current Washington Nationals star Ryan Zimmerman, who made the transition from anchoring the University of Virginia to starring in MLB in one year.

Promoted:

Evan Longoria, 3B, Durham (AAA) to Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
Luke Hochevar, RHP, Omaha (AAA) to Kansas City Royals (MLB)
Max Scherzer, RHP, Tucson (AAA) to Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)

Justin Masterson, RHP, Portland (AA) to Pawtucket (AAA)

Antonio Bastardo, LHP, Clearwater (A) to Reading (AA)

Travis Snider, OF, Dunedin (A-Advanced) to New Hampshire (AA)

Josh Vitters, 3B, Boise (Short A) to Peoria (A)

What the hell does a guy have to do to get called up around here? Since last week’s Z-meter, our hero Jay Bruce has improved upon his already stellar triple-A stats, hitting three more homers, raising his averages by double-digits, and putting runs on the board any way he can. The kid is as good as we think he is. Call him up, Cincy!

And, not to be lost in our Bruce-worship, Ian Stewart is doing roughly the same thing in Colorado, throwing gasoline on the fire that he’s been stoking since the season began. Play him or Trade him, Rocks!

Lars Anderson of the Lancaster Jethawks (Boston) went through a rough ofer stretch early in May, but has rebounded in a big way, hitting .550 over his last four games. Ian Gac is doing the reverse, getting donuts in his last two games, which has not had much effect on his mountain of numbers… yet.

UPDATE – Travis Snider is heating up fast. He hit two dingers for 3 RBI and 3 runs since I posted this morning. I’d say he’s adjusting to AA ball pretty well. Get out there and see him, OMDQ!

Let’s see who else is hot this week:

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The top level. These prospects are in AAA in the prime of their youth, and ready for the call that will change their lives.

Jay Bruce, CF – Louisville Bats (Reds): .366 – 32R – 10HR – 37RBI – 8SB – .665 SLG – 1.059 OPS

Homer Bailey, RHP – Louisville Bats (Reds): 9GS – 4W – 4L – 3.88 ERA – 20BB – 44K

Andrew McCutchen, CF – Indianapolis Indians (Pirates): .283 – 29R – 6HR – 21RBI – 14SB – .451 SLG – .828 OPS

Carlos Gonzalez, RF – Sacramento River Cats (Athletics): .295 – 16R – 3HR – 15RBI – 1SB – .434 SLG – .783 OPS

Ian Stewart, 3B – Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Rockies): .283 – 43R – 12HR – 43RBI – 6SB – .635 SLG – 1.014 OPS

Joe Koshansky, 1B – Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Rockies): .280 – 26R – 7HR – 34RBI – 0SB – .520 SLG – .885 OPS

Colby Rasmus, LF – Memphis Redbirds (Cardinals): .182 – 23R – 6HR – 16RBI – 5SB – .309 SLG – .579 OPS

Justin Masterson, RHP – Pawtucket Red Sox (Red Sox): 8GS – 1W – 3L – 4.23 ERA – 16BB – 37K

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These guys also have the potential to skip straight to the majors, but are more likely to get promoted to the top of this meter first.

Clayton Kershaw, LHP – Jacksonville Suns (Dodgers): 9GS – 0W – 3L – 2.34 ERA – 15BB – 45K

Fernando Martinez, CF (injured) – Binghamton Mets (Mets): .280 – 19R – 3HR – 16RBI – 3SB – .408 SLG – .721 OPS

Jacob McGee, LHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 8GS – 3W – 2L – 4.20 ERA – 17BB – 39K

Cameron Maybin, CF – Carolina Mudcats (Marlins): .247 – 26R – 6HR – 13RBI – 10SB – .416 SLG – .789 OPS

Wade Davis, RHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 9GS – 4W – 2L – 3.23 ERA – 21BB – 39K

Elvis Andrus, SS – Frisco RoughRiders (Rangers): .271 – 23R – 0HR – 19RBI – 10BB – 14SB – .322 SLG – .640 OPS

Jeff Samardzija, P – Tennessee Smokies (Cubs): 10GS – 3W – 4L – 6.14 ERA – 32BB – 28K

Luke Montz, C – Harrisburg Senators (Nationals): .330 – 16R – 8HR – 33RBI – 10BB – 0SB – .659 SLG – 1.049 OPS

Travis Snider, RF – New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Blue Jays): .228 – 17R – 7HR – 22RBI – 0SB – .465 SLG – .815 OPS

Antonio Bastardo, LHP – Reading Phillies (Phillies): 4GS – 2W – 1L – 2.66 ERA – 8BB – 20K

Matt LaPorta, CF – Huntsville Stars (Brewers): .304 – 35R – 11HR – 39 RBI – 0SB – .602 SLG – 1.018 OPS

Mat Gamel, 3B – Huntsville Stars (Brewers): .372 – 41R – 10HR – 38RBI – 2SB – .661 SLG – 1.097 OPS

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These guys have vast potential but need to work out some kinks in A-ball before they can advance.

Ian Gac, 1B – Clinton LumberKings (Rangers): .346 – 35R – 14HR – 40RBI – 22BB – 1SB – .738 SLG – 1.198 OPS

Lars Anderson, 1B – Lancaster JetHawks (Red Sox): .277 – 28R – 7HR – 23RBI – 0SB – .484 SLG – .867 OPS

Rick Porcello, RHP – Lakeland Flying Tigers (Detroit): 9GS – 3W – 4L – 1.72 ERA – 14BB – 28K

Matt Wieters, C – Frederick Keys (Orioles): .345 – 31R – 11HR – 29RBI – 21BB – 1SB – .619 SLG – 1.049 OPS

Mike Moustakas, SS – Burlington Bees (Royals): .244 – 14R – 4HR – 16RBI – 3SB – .372 SLG – .672 OPS

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Prospects chosen from Diamond Cutter’s Top 25, Baseball America, and my own irrational sense of whimsy.

The Z Meter – 5/8/2008

The Z-meter tracks the story arcs of 25 top prospects (or players we just like) on their way to the bigs. It is named after current Washington Nationals star Ryan Zimmerman, who made the transition from anchoring the University of Virginia to starring in MLB in one year.

Promoted:

Evan Longoria, 3B, Durham (AAA) to Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
Luke Hochevar, RHP, Omaha (AAA) to Kansas City Royals (MLB)
Max Scherzer, RHP, Tucson (AAA) to Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)

Antonio Bastardo, LHP, Clearwater (A) to Reading (AA)

Travis Snider, OF, Dunedin (A-Advanced) to New Hampshire (AA)

Josh Vitters, 3B, Boise (Short A) to Peoria (A)

Our man with the great name and even better arm, Antonio Bastardo, was called up from A to AA this week. That makes him a Reading Phillie, so we’ll reset his numbers and see how he does at this level (he already has one win). Clayton Kershaw gets a hot line even though he hasn’t won a game. This is because he hasn’t allowed an earned run since April 15, so he’s clearly doing his job – can’t blame him for the team’s failures. Royals phenom Mike Moustakas has hit three home runs and stolen two bases since last week, so we’ll give him a red line even though his overall numbers are poor – he’s obviously figuring some stuff out recently.

Let’s see who’s hot this week:

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The top level. These prospects are in AAA in the prime of their youth, and ready for the call that will change their lives.

Jay Bruce, CF – Louisville Bats (Reds): .320 – 19R – 5HR – 23RBI – 7SB – .541 SLG – .884 OPS

Homer Bailey, RHP – Louisville Bats (Reds): 7GS – 4W – 3L – 2.72 ERA – 12BB – 39K

Andrew McCutchen, CF – Indianapolis Indians (Pirates): .288 – 23R – 6HR – 17RBI – 9SB – .504 SLG – .890 OPS

Carlos Gonzalez, RF – Sacramento River Cats (Athletics): .343 – 11R – 3HR – 10RBI – 0SB – .514 SLG – .925 OPS

Ian Stewart, 3B – Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Rockies): .254 – 26R – 9HR – 29RBI – 3SB – .568 SLG – .904 OPS

Joe Koshansky, 1B – Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Rockies): .279 – 22R – 5HR – 19RBI – 0SB – .532 SLG – .916 OPS

Colby Rasmus, OF – Memphis Redbirds (Cardinals): .200 – 19R – 5HR – 14RBI – 5SB – .344 SLG – .641 OPS

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These guys also have the potential to skip straight to the majors, but are more likely to get promoted to the top of this meter first.

Clayton Kershaw, LHP – Jacksonville Suns (Dodgers): 6GS – 0W – 3L – 1.08 ERA – 11BB – 37K

Justin Masterson, RHP – Portland Sea Dogs (Red Sox): 6GS – 1W – 2L – 3.25 ERA – 10BB – 34K

Fernando Martinez, CF – Binghamton Mets (Mets): .250 – 15R – 1HR – 12RBI – 3SB – .350 SLG – .630 OPS

Jacob McGee, LHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 6GS – 3W – 2L – 34.20 ERA – 13BB – 30K

Cameron Maybin, CF – Carolina Mudcats (Marlins): .252 – 19R – 4HR – 10RBI – 6SB – .423 SLG – .818 OPS

Lars Anderson, 1B – Lancaster JetHawks (Red Sox): .264 – 21R – 5HR – 15RBI – 0SB – .471 SLG – .840 OPS

Wade Davis, RHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 7GS – 3W – 2L – 3.51 ERA – 13BB – 29K

Elvis Andrus, SS – Frisco RoughRiders (Rangers): .266 – 15R – 0HR – 13RBI – 7BB – 9SB – .305 SLG – .624 OPS

Jeff Samardzija, P – Tennessee Smokies (Cubs): 7GS – 3W – 2L – 3.44 ERA – 20BB – 21K

Luke Montz, C – Harrisburg Senators (Nationals): .364 – 14R – 7HR – 31RBI – 9BB – 0SB – .701 SLG – 1.127 OPS

Travis Snider, RF – New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Blue Jays): .143 – 7R – 2HR – 4RBI – 0SB – .250 SLG – .544 OPS

Antonio Bastardo, LHP – Reading Phillies (Phillies): 1GS – 1W – 0L – 1.59 ERA – 3BB – 4K

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These guys have vast potential but need to work out some kinks in A-ball before they can advance.

Ian Gac, 1B – Clinton LumberKings (Rangers): .375 – 29R – 12HR – 35RBI – 16BB – 1SB – .798 SLG – 1.278 OPS

Rick Porcello, RHP – Lakeland Flying Tigers (Detroit): 7GS – 2W – 4L – 1.98 ERA – 12BB – 22K

Josh Vitters, 3B – Peoria Chiefs (Cubs): .214 – 1R – 0HR – 1RBI – 0BB – 0SB – .429 SLG – .643 OPS

Matt Wieters, C – Frederick Keys (Orioles): .340 – 22R – 5HR – 18RBI – 15BB – 1SB – .540 SLG – .960 OPS

Mike Moustakas, SS – Burlington Bees (Royals): .213 – 12R – 4HR – 9RBI – 3SB – .333 SLG – .607 OPS

Eric Niesen, P – St. Lucie Mets (Mets): 5GS – 0W – 3L – 5.33 ERA – 13BB – 21K

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Prospects chosen from Diamond Cutter’s Top 25, Baseball America, and my own irrational sense of whimsy.

Opinion Polls & Market Research

GAC! (Part 2)

A couple days ago, I noticed that Clinton’s Ian Gac was leading the Midwest League in batting average (still is), homeruns and runs batted in, and wondered out loud if any player has ever won that league’s Triple Crown.  An article on MiLB.com talked about Moe Hill, who was the first to take all three titles in 1974, and another source mentioned Joey Meyer in 1984, but I wasn’t sure if those were correct, or if they were the only two.

Seeking confirmation, I emailed the Midwest League offices.  Today, they sent the following reply:

Joseph “Joey” Meyer, Beloit, 1984, .320 Batting Average, 30 Home Runs, 102 Runs Batted In….is the last MWL player to win the Triple Crown.  Only one other, in 1974, Elmore “Moe” Hill, Wisconsin Rapids, .339 Batting Average, 32 Home Runs, 113 Runs Batted In.

I remember Meyer from his 1988 Topps Future Stars baseball card.  He was awesome in the minor league, crushing a ton of homeruns (120 in four seasons in A, AA, and AAA), but only put up 18 in two major league seasons with the Brewers.  Hill’s career was odd – he clearly had the ability to advance to AA, AAA or the major leagues, but for some reason spent eight years playing in A ball for the Wisconsin Rapids Twins.

So there you have it: if Gac-Man manages to hang on and win the Triple Crown this year, he would be only the third player in Midwest League history to do so.

GAC!

Extra P put Ian Gac and his nine homeruns on the Z-Meter last week, but the pressure was apparently too much and Gac-Man immediately stopped hitting the ball out of the park. 

Until tonight.

Gac homered twice and drove in six runs, adding to his league-leading totals in both categories (11 and 32, respectively).  His 32 RBI are second-best in all of minor league baseball, trailing only Jesus Guzman of AA Midland.  The game story reports that his .378 batting average is second in the Midwest League, but the league web site lists him as number one in that category, so I don’t know who to believe (side note: anyone know the last player to win the Triple Crown in the Midwest League?  Or any minor league, for that matter?  I’m genuinely curious).

(Hey, I might’ve answered my own question.  Don’t when this was last updated, but we’ll go with Joey Meyer in 1984 as the unofficial answer, for now.)

The Z-Meter: 5/1/2008

The Z-meter tracks the story arcs of 25 top prospects (or players we just like) on their way to the bigs. It is named after current Washington Nationals star Ryan Zimmerman, who made the transition from anchoring the University of Virginia to starring in MLB in one year.

Promoted:

Evan Longoria, 3B, Durham (AAA) to Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
Luke Hochevar, RHP, Omaha (AAA) to Kansas City Royals (MLB)
Max Scherzer, RHP, Tucson (AAA) to Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)

Travis Snider, OF, Dunedin (A-Advanced) to New Hampshire (AA)

Josh Vitters, 3B, Boise (Short A) to Peoria (A)

This week, OMDQ and I collaborated to add a few more lower-league reps to the Z-meter. In are Justin Masterson with the AA Portland Sea Dogs, bringing his pile of Ks with him. Also Ian Gac of the Clinton LumberKings, the Midwest League entrant for the Texas Rangers. And, finally, a most wonderful confluence of silly name and true ability: meet Antonio Bastardo of the Advanced-A Clearwater Threshers (Phillies), who is striking out batters at an epic rate.

Let’s see who’s hot this week:

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The top level. These prospects are in AAA in the prime of their youth, and ready for the call that will change their lives.

Jay Bruce, CF – Louisville Bats (Reds): .309 – 15R – 5HR – 18RBI – 6SB – .543 SLG – .876 OPS

Homer Bailey, RHP – Louisville Bats (Reds): 5GS – 3W – 2L – 1.95 ERA – 7BB – 22K

Andrew McCutchen, CF – Indianapolis Indians (Pirates): .273 – 18R – 5HR – 14RBI – 4SB – .515 SLG – .889 OPS

Carlos Gonzalez, RF – Sacramento River Cats (Athletics): .343 – 11R – 3HR – 10RBI – 0SB – .514 SLG – .925 OPS

Ian Stewart, 3B – Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Rockies): .281 – 23R – 6HR – 21RBI – 2SB – .584 SLG – .953 OPS

Joe Koshansky, 1B – Colorado Springs Sky Sox (Rockies): .321 – 20R – 5HR – 17RBI – 0SB – .642 SLG – 1.075 OPS

Colby Rasmus, OF – Memphis Redbirds (Cardinals): .218 – 16R – 5HR – 12RBI – 4SB – .386 SLG – .702 OPS

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These guys also have the potential to skip straight to the majors, but are more likely to get promoted to the top of this meter first.

Clayton Kershaw, LHP – Jacksonville Suns (Dodgers): 5GS – 0W – 3L – 1.40 ERA – 10BB – 31K

Justin Masterson, RHP – Portland Sea Dogs (Red Sox): 4GS – 1W – 0L – 0.95 ERA – 5BB – 23K

Fernando Martinez, CF – Binghamton Mets (Mets): .266 – 14R – 1HR – 7RBI – 3SB – .367 SLG – .672 OPS

Jacob McGee, LHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 4GS – 2W – 1L – 3.32 ERA – 9BB – 21K

Cameron Maybin, CF – Carolina Mudcats (Marlins): .214 – 13R – 3HR – 7RBI – 4SB – .369 SLG – .734 OPS

Lars Anderson, 1B – Lancaster JetHawks (Red Sox): .298 – 20R – 5HR – 14RBI – 0SB – .543 SLG – .937 OPS

Wade Davis, RHP – Montgomery Biscuits (Rays): 5GS – 3W – 1L – 3.10 ERA – 9BB – 15K

Elvis Andrus, SS – Frisco RoughRiders (Rangers): .260 – 9R – 0HR – 10RBI – 4BB – 5SB – .310 SLG – .612 OPS

Jeff Samardzija, P – Tennessee Smokies (Cubs): 5GS – 2W – 2L – 3.12 ERA – 12BB – 14K

Luke Montz, C – Harrisburg Senators (Nationals): .371 – 9R – 5HR – 24RBI – 6BB – 0SB – .677 SLG – 1.098 OPS

Travis Snider, RF – Dunedin Blue Jays (Blue Jays): .103 – 3R – 0HR – 1RBI – 0SB – .103 SLG – .361 OPS

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These guys have vast potential but need to work out some kinks in A-ball before they can advance.

Antonio Bastardo, LHP – Clearwater Threshers (Phillies): 5GS – 2W – 0L – 1.17 ERA – 10BB – 47K

Ian Gac, 1B – Clinton LumberKings (Rangers): .390 – 22R – 9HR – 24RBI – 10BB – 1SB – .817 SLG – 1.302 OPS

Rick Porcello, RHP – Lakeland Tigers (Detroit): 5GS – 1W – 4L – 2.13 ERA – 6BB – 20K

Josh Vitters, 3B – Peoria Chiefs (Cubs): .214 – 1R – 0HR – 1RBI – 0BB – 0SB – .429 SLG – .643 OPS

Matt Wieters, C – Frederick Keys (Orioles): .353 – 15R – 5HR – 15RBI – 11BB – 1SB – .632 SLG – 1.059 OPS

Mike Moustakas, SS – Burlington Bees (Royals): .190 – 6R – 1HR – 4RBI – 1SB – .226 SLG – .479 OPS

Eric Niesen, P – St. Lucie Mets (Mets): 4GS – 0W – 3L – 5.73 ERA – 12BB – 14K

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Prospects chosen from Diamond Cutter’s Top 25, Baseball America, and my own irrational sense of whimsy.