The 2011 Farm Report AA & AAA Review: Alex Torres, Julio Teheran & More!
A key piece in the deal that sent Scott Kazmir out west, Torres is often overshadowed by the bevy of arms in the Rays system. He possesses anything but the traditional pitchers frame at 5'10, 175, but a live arm and successful results will cover up deficiencies in stature.
Torres struck out 150 batters in 142 2/3 innings last season in the Southern League, and whiffed nine during his five-inning AAA debut in 2011. His propensity for inducing ground balls is also encouraging (1.64), using his sinking change-up effectively to neutralize right-handed bats. Control issues (70 BB) must be addressed for the 23-year old before rationalizing the ultimate step up in class. He’s probably best left for dynasty formats.
Julio Teheran, SP Atlanta
Still only 20-years of age, Teheran's reputation already precedes him. In addition to his overpowering fastball, hard breaking curve and supreme mound presence, he's added substantial bulk to his frame (up to 175 pounds) and has worked hard to tighten his mechanics.
Julio has pitched to a 2.59 ERA between three levels in 2010, allowing 108 hits in 142 2/3 innings and while striking out 159 (40 BB).
Teheran was dominant in his first International League start of the new campaign, surrendering one run and two hits in 5 2/3 innings. As he continues to get stronger and work deeper into games, he’ll be in the Braves rotation (possibly in ’11).
Jarrod Parker, SP Arizona
The prized jewel of the Diamondbacks system is back on the mound following Tommy John surgery. Making his first start in 20 months (AA), Parker showed his rust getting bombed for six hits and seven earned runs in 3 2/3 innings, walking
three and striking out five. The arm strength was apparent reaching back for 94 MPH heat (90-94), but his stuff was obviously anything but crisp.
As expected, recapturing his rhythm, feel for breaking pitches and comfort level on the hill will be a process, but the ace potential remains. Expect big things in short order from the power right-hander. Working his way back into game shape is the only hurdle between Parker and the majors.
Simon Castro, SP San Diego
Castro had a strong '10 season finishing with a 3.28 ERA and allowing 123 hits in 140 innings of work, but his 113-strikeout total was disconcerting.
While his sinking fastball is the staple of his arsenal, velocity readings have varied from scout to scout. Does he sit in the low 90's or mid 90's?
His slider is also a classy offering, but more a contact pitch than an out pitch. He hides the ball well with an awkward swinging gate delivery, but perhaps the mystery is wearing off.
His opening pitching line was rough on the retinas: 4 IP, 9 hits, 8 runs and 3 walks against 2 strikeouts. It’s still widely believed that Castro (23) will contribute to the Padres this season, albeit, he’s not off to an inspiring start.
Brett Jackson, CF Chicago Cubs
The “toolsy” Jackson is off to a flying start in 2011. In his first five games he’s batting .421 with a homer, six runs batted in, seven runs and two stolen bases.
After drawing 73 BB last season, he's already accepted five free passes in 19 official plate appearances. His exorbitant strikeout total (123 in '10) would be more worrisome if he didn't show adroit plate discipline.
Jackson doesn't possess any singular "knock your socks off" skill, but his combination of developing power (12 HR) and speed (30 SB in 41 attempts) is plenty intriguing.
Depending on the Cubs positioning in the standings come July, he could earn himself a promotion.
Tim Wheeler, CF Colorado
At 6'4 205, Wheeler more than looks the part of a dynamic, long striding outfielder.
He finished last season with a lowly slugging percentage of .394, but appears a new man in '11. He's hitting .444 with three HR and nine RBI through fives games, including a two-dinger game on Monday. Wheeler's also drawn four walks against two strikeouts and continues to flash speed with two swipes (22 last year).
He has an aesthetically pleasing swing, a good approach and when he learns to fully utilize leverage the power will come consistently.
The third-year player from Sacramento State is floating under the radar, for now.
Dee Gordon, SS Los Angeles Dodgers
With Rafael Furcal on the shelf and contemplating retirement, a spot has opened up for the 23-year old speedster.
Gordon led the Puerto Rican Winter League with a .361 BA spraying line drives all over the diamond. With that said, he drew only five walks in 33 games, and has struck out ten times against a single walk to open the PCL season.
Plate discipline is still work a progress, but he does not fit the mold as a swing and miss type (90 & 89 K last two).
Weighing in at a rail thin 150 pounds, his slugging percentages are miniscule. What he does bring is overwhelming, game changing speed on the bases, stealing five bags (zero CS) in the first six games of 2011.
Gordon is still raw, but it’s hard to believe the presence of Ivan De Jesus Jr. will keep him in AAA.
Dustin Ackley, 2B Seattle
The second overall selection in 2009 has a major league ready approach, but the production results are lacking. His 75:79 BB:K ratio between AA and AAA last season was staggering, and demonstrates his natural IQ in the batter's box. But for an all-fields hitter with only occasional pop, his .267 average was far below expectations (keep in mind he was undertaking a position change).
Ackley is playing a similar tune early in '11, with four hits in his first 24 at bats (zero RBI) and drawing five BB. It's certainly not cause for panic, but just how high is his ceiling?
The former UNC product could step up to the majors today and put forth a quality AB, and maybe that challenge is exactly what he needs.
The Mariners middle infield is aging and lacking talent, so he should get his opportunity sooner rather than later.
Written by Adam Ganeles exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com. Check back weekly for Adam's insight into Major & Minor League Baseball.
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