2012 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, Advice & Analysis
 Tyler Skaggs (credits below) Tyler Skaggs, LH SP Arizona At the ripe old age of 20, Skaggs has rapidly emerged as the prize possession of Arizona's farm system. Acquired as the centerpiece prospect in the Dan Haren trade, the lanky 6'4 southpaw has made waves at multiple levels this season. He began the campaign in the Advanced A CAL where he struck out 125 batters (11.2 per nine innings) against 34 walks in 100 2/3 innings. In eight starts since being promoted to the AA Southern League he's pitched to a 2.51 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and whiffed 54 (10.4 per nine) in 46 2/3 innings of work. Two of his last three pitching lines have been legit "lights out": August 12th- seven IP, two hits, one run, zero BB and 7 K, while retiring 19 straight along the way. August 23rd- complete game, two hits, one run, two BB, seven K. Not too shabby. Skaggs wasn't projected as a true power arm, but he's missing bats with overwhelming abundance. He continues to grow into his frame and his velocity has escalated up to 93. His prime offering is a 12-7 curve that has been termed Zito-esque, and he's rapidly growing in confidence with the essential third pitch, his change. Skaggs possesses mental maturity and mound presence beyond his years, however, the physical still needs to catch up. Can he make an appearance in 2012 before he hits 21? It's looking more and more realistic with each dominant outing. Nick Barnese, RH SP Tampa Bay What do we have here? Indeed, another Rays arm capable of major league contributions in the not too distant future. Barnese has battled the traditional ups and downs in his first season above A ball, but there's no questioning his ground ball inducing tendencies. The sinker baller is sporting a 1.26 GO/AO ratio on the season, 2.16 in the second half and 2.50 in August. He allowed eight HR in nearly 200 innings of work between the SAL and FSL in 2009/2010, and has surrendered eight in 115+ frames in the Southern League. Unfortunately, 2011 has also seen a disconcerting regression in command. After issuing an exceptional 26 walks in 122 1/3 innings in 2010, he's more than doubled that total to 54 despite fewer accumulated innings. With the absence of swing and miss stuff, he needs to limit cheap base runners. He's a contact pitcher, and ground balls will find holes. Barnese was rated the number 12 prospect in Tampa's system following 2010, and if he gets back to throwing strikes there's no reason he can't blossom into a middle of the rotation type. He could be an emergency option in the Alex Cobb mold as soon as next season. Emergency being the key word, as the Rays are absolutely saturated with arms throughout the organization. Keep a watchful eye during the spring. Written by Adam Ganeles exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team (July 9, 2011 - Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images North America)  Tags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Baseball Advice, 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, MiLB, The Farm Report, AA, AAA, Adam Ganeles 1 Comment  Zack Cox (see credits below) AA & AAA Corner Infielders Alex Liddi, 3B/SS Seattle Mariners Liddi, who will turn 23 on Sunday, is attempting to become the first Italian born major leaguer since 1962. His power bat is doing the talking in AAA where he's hitting .261 with 29 doubles, 25 homers, 88 RBI and a .501 slugging percentage. Standing at 6'4 230, he's a big man with legit pop to right and right center field, but staying within an all-fields approach has been a trying task. His swing has exploitable holes and pitch recognition is not a strength. Liddi has struck out 143 times in 459 AB and is batting just .158 when behind in the count (as opposed to .328 when the count is in his favor). He's been white hot since the calendar flipped to August, posting a .349/5/13 stat line over a ten-game span, including a three-homer game on August 4th. While he hasn't displayed any regression in production from his 2010 in AA to AAA, the final hurdle to the big show will assuredly be more complicated. A long swing and inability to make swing adjustments is not a recipe for solid at bats. The Mariners envision him at 3B long term, but the organization is currently giving fellow prospect Kyle Seager a shot to impress, albeit, he is failing to do so. Keep an eye out in September. Neftali Soto, 1B Cincinnati Reds Defensive liabilities pushed Soto off a reasonably open position (3B) and into a first base blockade behind Joey Votto and Yonder Alonso. Nevertheless, he continues to thoroughly impress with his stick in the AA Southern League. The 22-year old is batting .268 with 25 HR, 61 RBI and a .586 SLG%. After leaving the yard only ten times in the season's opening three months, he launched ten homers in July alone, and already has five in 31 August at bats. However, as his power continues to develop, his willingness to accept a free pass is deteriorating. Soto has drawn a paltry 20 BB against 75 K, and subsequently his batting average is well below his vast capabilities. He hit .300+ in his first two minor league stops, but as his body continues to mature he's getting suckered into a fool's gold, trigger-happy approach. With that said, it's important to remember that this is his first season above A ball and that his approach is still very much a work in progress. Soto has a bright offensive future with rare explosion thru the hitting zone, but if he breaks through at 1B it will be for a different organization. Zack Cox, 3B St. Louis Cardinals Selected 25th overall in the 2010 draft, the Arkansas product's natural hitting ability was never in question. The 22-year old has performed admirably in his first full professional season, posting a .318/8 HR/25 doubles/55 RBI stat line between the Advanced A FSL and AA Texas League. His step up in class has not been without hiccups, however, hitting below the Mendoza line in June before rebounding with a .380 July (.455 thus far in August). Cox is mechanically sound at the dish, with a short, quick stroke utilizing his strong lower half. His power is predominantly the gap variety at this point, but consistent square contact is a trademark. He hangs in well against left-handed pitching and his style lends itself to quick adjustments at the ML level. Despite mediocre athleticism at the hot corner, he is the Cardinals future at third base, perhaps as soon as 2012. Current 3B, David Freese, is a free agent at season's end. If Cox finishes 2011 strong and hits during spring training, he could break camp with the squad. Written by Adam Ganeles exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team (February 23, 2011 - Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images North America) Tags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Baseball Advice, 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, MiLB, The Farm Report, AA, AAA, Adam Ganeles  Dayan Viciedo, RF Chicago White Sox Some question Viciedo's approach at the plate (or lack thereof), while others choose to focus on his defensive shortcomings in a corner outfield spot. The bottom line is that the 22-year old hits the ball on the screws consistently, plain and simple. He's batting .307 in AAA with 24 doubles, 16 homers and 65 RBI. His BB:K rate of 31:70 might not appear significant, but it's a huge step forward from 11:78 last season and 23:89 in 2009. Viciedo proved he could square up major league pitching last year, posting a .305/5/13 split in 104 at bats. However, heavy emphasis was placed on his 2:25 BB:K ratio and staggering 15% swinging strike clip, rather than his 19% line drives, wicked bat speed and vicious all-fields pop. White Sox fans have been crying out for a Viciedo promotion since June, but with Carlos Quentin staying put at the deadline that appears unlikely prior to September roster expansion. Right or wrong, team brass is riding it out with high-priced busts Alex Rios and Adam Dunn until the train officially comes off the tracks. The two-time Futures Game participant has been out since July 23rd with a right thumb injury, calming the "Viciedo Watch" for the time being. As has been the case for most of 2011, continue to monitor this tension-filled situation. His bat could be mighty useful in the final month. Additionally, he's shed much needed weight (was a stocky 230) that should better his cause on both sides of the diamond. Josh Vitters, 3B Chicago Cubs The former third overall selection in the 2007 draft has been disappointing in the face of enormous expectations. While the soon to be 22-year old has shown statistical improvement in his fifth minor league season, very real concerns remain at the forefront of his resume. Vitters is batting .278 with 11 HR and 51 RBI in the AA Southern League, numbers that are a welcome sight following his .223/7/26 2010 in 206 plate appearances. However, his walk total of 13 and .314 OBP are borderline unacceptable, especially given his uninspiring power production (.442 SLG%). Few, if any, baseball people doubt his pure swing or contact skills (38 K), but he'll never tap into his average or power potential with the absence of plate discipline. Vitters has shown himself to be a clutch stick, hitting .327 with runners in scoring position. He has struck out just six times in 98 RISP at bats. It will be intriguing to see if the 6'2 200-pounder gets a look in September, as it appears the Cubs are uncertain what exactly they have in Vitters. A step up in class could help clarify the picture. *Aramis Ramirez has a $16 million club option for 2012 at the hot corner. Scott Van Slyke, 1B LA Dodgers The late blooming Van Slyke has finally "seen the light" in his seventh MiLB campaign. The 25-year old son of former major league OF Andy Van Slyke, Scott is absolutely torching the AA Southern League: .323, 35 doubles, 13 HR, 69 RBI, .413 OBP and .553 SLG%. He's maintained a .300+ average in every calendar month, and is batting .355 with runners in scoring position. To make matters more extraordinary, he hit .235 with four homers and 29 RBI at the same level last season (217 AB). In fact, 2011 has been his first productive statistical season above A ball. Van Slyke put the hard yards into shortening his swing, which has allowed him to let the ball travel deeper into the zone (56 BB) and utilize his athletic 6'5 frame to supply much of the power. His decision to skip college baseball back in '05 may have hindered the development process, but Van Slyke has found his way. An afterthought entering this season, he's certainly opened organizational eyes with his MVP-caliber 2011 and earned himself a long look in the spring. Written by Adam Ganeles exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team The MiLB Farm Report Week 17: Carlos Martinez & Other Arms with Giddy-Up in Advanced A & AA 07/29/2011
 Carlos Martinez (see credits below) Welcome again to Mr. MiLB's Week 17 Farm Report. This week Adam Ganeles discusses 3 strong arms with some kick to watch in Advanced A & AA. Be the first kid on your block to know about... Carlos Martinez, RH SP St. Louis The 19-year old flamethrower still has the scouts buzzing following his lone Future's Game frame. The 6'0 165 pound right-hander, nicknamed "Little Pedro" because of his filthy "stuff" and similar mound mannerisms, tossed a clean inning at Chase Field lighting up the radar gun with 96-98. Martinez is more than simply an exceptional arm, however, blessed with a free and easy delivery and natural movement. His sharp curve and change-up are still rough around the edges, but both have the makings of devastating pitches over time. Martinez was signed out of the Dominican Republic in 2010, and his 12 starts in the DSL (Dominican Summer League) last season were unfathomable: 59 IP, 0.76 ERA, 28 hits allowed, 78 K and .144 BAA. He began 2011 in the Midwest League (A) where he pitched to a 2.33 ERA in eight starts, striking out 50 (14 BB) in 38 2/3 IP and generating a 2.21 GO/AO ratio. He's had some control issues upon his promotion to the FSL (Advanced A), issuing 14 walks in 24 1/3 IP. Still, his 1.45 GO/AO is highly encouraging. Martinez has surrendered only two long balls in over 120 MiLB innings. While secondary offerings are in need of refinement, his progression through the Cardinals system can expect to be accelerated. Get as much out of that arm as possible at the highest level. Nate Eovaldi, RH SP LA Dodgers The Dodgers 11th round steal in 2008 is finding tremendous success in the AA Southern League, having recently been named a mid-season All-Star. Eovaldi underwent Tommy John surgery in High School which deflated his draft stock, but three plus years later he appears no worse for the wear. Through 98 innings in 2011 he's working to a 2.66 ERA, allowing a measly 73 hits (.204 BAA) and striking out 95. His BB total of 43 is a bit disconcerting, but at 21 years of age he's working out the kinks in competitive AA ball. In four July starts his ERA stands at 1.99 with a ridiculous 2.92 GO/AO ratio. His strikeout totals have been muted given his electric arm, but he's piling up the ground balls. Further development of breaking stuff would alleviate concerns over inability to miss bats and provide more two-strike options. He's an athletic 6'3 195, boasting a four-seam fastball that sits comfortably in the mid 90's, a two-seamer in the low 90's and useful slider. Eovaldi disappointed somewhat at lower levels, but there's little doubt he's finally tapping into his potential this season. A youth movement could be imminent in Los Angeles, and he is certainly among the names at the food chain apex. *Eovaldi hit 100 MPH in the final pitch of his lone relief appearance this year. In fact, he and Aroldis Chapman threw back-to-back pitches at triple digits. Manny Banuelos, LH SP NY Yankees In his fourth MiLB campaign, the 20-year old Banuelos is getting his first taste of adversity (high ERA of 2.64 first three). His overall AA numbers look acceptable with a 3.74 ERA in 89 innings pitched, but positive performances have been few and far between as of late. Since finishing April with a 1.56 ERA and May with a 2.59 ERA, he's posted a 5.20 mark in June and 5.03 in July. Known for his plus command that he demonstrated at Low and Advanced A levels, he's walking a batter every 1.8 innings in 2011 (49). Nevertheless, Banuelos is an extremely polished product for his age and experience level. He has clean mechanics and a repeatable delivery, but he's still raw in terms of mental and physical maturity. Not surprisingly, the Yankees have been exceedingly cautious with his workload, as he's yet to surpass the 5 2/3-inning mark since June 1st. He's added strength to his 5'11 155 frame, and a jump in velocity from low 90's to mid 90's has been the result. His repertoire also includes a lights out change-up rated amongst the minors best, and a tight curveball. Banuelos' name has been thrown around in trade deadline talks, however, he's unlikely trade bait in a weak pitchers market. When/if he puts the full package together (and he has it), his upside is enormous. (July 9, 2011 - Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images North America) Written by Adam Ganeles exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team! Today Draftstreet has a $1250 guaranteed game for only $5. Click on the banner below to sign up for Draftstreet and you can get the 25% bonus by using the code "FIX". Tags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Baseball Advice, 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, MiLB, The Farm Report, AA, AAA, Adam Ganeles, Carlos Martinez, Nate Eovaldi, Manny Bauelos The MiLB Farm Report, Week 16: Progress on Derek Norris, Will Middlebrooks & Jordany Valdespin 07/21/2011
 Derek Norris Progress Notes on Three Eastern League (AA) Sticks Derek Norris, C, Washington Nationals The fall from grace of Derek Norris over the past two seasons has been painful to monitor. Following the 2009 season he was widely rated amongst the top prospects in the sport, but 2010 provided nothing but setbacks. Norris broke the Hamate bone in his left hand (by all accounts an injury that saps power for a full year) and was struck in the head by a 96 MPH fastball. While his numbers took a massive nosedive, his futility levels have reached an all-time low through 64 games this year. His first taste of AA ball has resulted in a .196 average with seven doubles, 12 HR (.407 SLG) and only 29 RBI. The lack of square contact has been frightening: .218 BABIP, .143 versus left-handed pitching and .169 with RISP. The Nationals believed they had corrected a weight shift flaw in his stride, but no consistent progress has been evident. Despite his struggles, the 22-year old remains a potential superstar in the eyes of many because of his sublime patience and hand-eye coordination. He's drawn 46 walks in 204 at bats (18%) and his OBP of .352 is tremendous given his struggles collecting base hits. It's quite possible that he's become patient to a fault, however, allowing too many fat pitches go by and putting himself behind the eight ball with regularity. A more aggressive approach from the struggling backstop would be a breath of fresh air. An ETA is difficult to project until his mental/mechanical issues are straightened out. Will Middlebrooks, 3B, Boston Red Sox Perhaps the Red Sox farm system isn't bereft of top-level talent after all. Middlebrooks, who was a recent participant in the All-Star Futures Game, is quickly emerging as a legitimate high ceiling prospect. In his first season in the AA Eastern League he's batting .314 with 18 doubles, 11 homers and 52 RBI. He's been particularly menacing in RISP situations where he's hitting .403 with a 1.067 OPS and driven in 40. The knock on the soon to be 23-year old has been pitch recognition and plate discipline. In 261 plate appearances this season he's drawn just 17 walks (6%) against 64 strikeouts (23%). This is not a new development for Middlebrooks who posted a 35:121 BB:K ratio in 2010. When he makes contact the result is screaming line drives (.378 BABIP), but there are simply too many swings and misses. Since arriving in the organization he's added 40 pounds to his frame (from 180 to 220), and the power development is clearly evident. Balls he was driving for doubles are now leaving the yard. While still a raw product in his fourth MiLB season, his bat speed and plate coverage are impossible to ignore. It's difficult to project when Boston will begin to infuse young talent onto their established roster, but he's opening eyes. Over his last ten games Middlebrooks is batting .381 with three HR and 15 RBI. Jordany Valdespin, 2B/SS New York Mets The 23-year old middle infield product out of the Dominican Republic is a classic case late bloomer. Originally signed by New York to fill out a Dominican Summer League roster in 2007, Valdespin is now thriving in his fifth minor league campaign. He's obliterating previous statistical highs in the AA Eastern League, batting .294 with 11 HR (14 total in previous four seasons), 40 RBI (previous high of 41 in 2010) and 29 stolen bases (previous high of 17 in '10). His body has matured significantly and his raw energy on the diamond is slowly being channeled in the proper avenues. However, Valdespin remains a free swinger (17 BB:55 K) and needs to slow the game down on the bases and in the field. He's been caught stealing 11 times and has committed an unacceptable 24 errors at shortstop for Binghamton. Criticisms aside, it's hard to argue with his .330 batting clip in June and .333 in July. He's flat raking right now. Valdespin is a likely September call up for the Mets, and will undoubtedly get a long look next spring at SS or 2B (depending on team's decision on Jose Reyes). *He's broken team rules in the past, making a number of enemies in the prior regime. Those attitude issues appear to be behind him. Written by Adam Ganeles exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team! Tags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Baseball Advice, 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, MiLB, The Farm Report, AA, AAA, Adam Ganeles, Jordany Valdesin, Will Middlebrooks, Derek Norris (February 24, 2011 - Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images North America)  Rewarding Position Players By 2012-2013 Wil Myers, RF Kansas City Royals Despite being recognized as one of the top High School bats in the 2009 draft class, concerns over signability dropped Myers into the lap of Dayton Moore and the Royals in the third round. Less than two short years later, expectations for the 20-year old have reached cosmic proportions. Following a promotion to the Advanced A CAR last season he hit .346 in 58 games, showing highly advanced strike zone IQ and plate discipline drawing 37 walks against 39 strikeouts. 2011 has proved to be a far more challenging year, in more ways than one. Myers undertook a position change from behind the plate to the outfield, a move up in class to AA, and suffered a staph infection in his knee that held him out for nearly a month (initial diagnosis was 7-10 days). All in all, his diminished statistical output of .287, three HR, 19 RBI and .410 SLG% is not difficult to explain. He's remained patient in his approach accepting 25 free passes, but his K total of 48 is a bit startling for a hitter of his caliber. However, it's important to keep in mind his lack of game experience, particularly against supreme competition. Myers is renowned for his lightning quick hands and has legit power potential within his 6'3 205 frame. He's an excellent athlete as well, with speed not foreign to his skill package (12 SB in 2010). To label him a fast track bat would be a large understatement. *Named to the U.S. Futures roster in late June. Anthony Gose, CF Toronto Blue Jays Originally a 2nd round selection by Philadelphia in 2008, Gose was first dealt to Houston in the Roy Oswalt package before finally ending up in Toronto for Brett Wallace. The Jays were enthralled by his athletic gifts, and it's not hard to see why. With that said, whether those tools can transfer to higher levels of baseball competition has yet to be determined. He's currently batting .261 in the AA Eastern League, with nine HR and 38 RBI. This is the first time he's displayed pop of this magnitude, leaving the park only nine times in his first 2+ minor league seasons. In fact, he's blasted four homers in his last six games alone. What Gose has never failed to exhibit is speed, swiping 76 bags in 2009 (SAL), 45 last season (FSL) and already 39 in 49 attempts in 2011. The CS figures are exorbitant (32 CS in 2010) as his instincts on the basepaths are very much a work in progress, but his game wrecking wheels are undeniable. Discipline and willingness to work counts are on the incline with 36 BB, but contact, or lack thereof, continues to haunt him. He needs to utilize his athleticism from the left side of the dish and take a "defensive" approach when behind in the counts (.327 BABIP). Gose has been shuffled around the batting order, starting the season in the leadoff spot, then to the 3-hole and now in the second spot. If his power continues to develop, and his feel from the game clicks in, we're looking at a potential fantasy freak. Unless you're still a believer in Travis Snider, there is no CF competition on the current roster or down on the farm. Nolan Arenado, 3B Colorado Rockies Another Futures Game participant, Arenado has been torching CAL (Advanced A) pitching at a sublime pace. He finished June at a .358 clip, and in 13 games since the All-Star break he's batting .431 with four HR and 24 RBI. Not too shabby, especially given his .272 start in April and May. Suffice it to say he's found his comfort zone at the dish. Overall he's sporting a .308/10/66 split, with 20 doubles and a 23:30 BB:K ratio. Last year in the SAL he drove in 65 runs all season and walked just 19 times. The 20-year old looks the part at the plate, displaying a balanced, aggressive swing with excellent hand-eye coordination and contact skills. Arenado is a line drive machine already, and long ball projection is becoming increasingly apparent. He's still not overly inclined to accept a free pass, but he's showing improvement in that regard. Defensively, there is no way to sugarcoat his liabilities. He possesses underwhelming (at best) agility, and his lack of a true position will hold back his accelerated ascent to the majors. Despite his struggles, however, Arenado is still far and away the Rockies top corner infield prospect, and for all intents and purposes, he is "the guy". He can rake=all sins forgiven. Written by Adam Ganeles exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team! Tags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Baseball Advice, 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, MiLB, The Farm Report, AA, AAA, Adam Ganeles  Collin Cowgill (see credits below) THE FARM REPORT - WEEK 13 Collin Cowgill, RF Arizona The 25-year old Cowgill has toyed with PCL pitching in the season's opening three months. He's batting .363 (.406 in June) with 12 HR, 52 RBI and a 1.015 OPS, in large part a result of working himself into more hitters counts (39 BB:44 K). When ahead in the count he's hitting a ridiculous .463 with a .605 OBP. On the basepaths his efficiency speaks for itself, swiping 24 bags in 26 opportunities. The former Kentucky product has displayed tremendous improvement at each advanced level, cultivating an all-fields approach with contact rates (specifically line drives) on the incline. Despite the absence of top end physical tools (5'9 185), Cowgill has put it all together thus far in 2011. In the last calendar month he has a cycle and 17-game hitting streak under his belt. His accolades are difficult to ignore, leading Diamondbacks GM Kevin Towers to classify him as a potential promotion alternative in July come the All-Star Break. Arizona has been trying to ship out Gerardo Parra for quite some time. Expect to see Cowgill roaming the spacious Chase Field gaps before too long. Jason Kipnis, 2B Cleveland With Lonnie Chisenhall and Cord Phelps receiving big league calls, is Kipnis next in line? The 2009 2nd round pick is putting up his typical steady numbers in the International League, hitting .292 with nine HR and 44 RBI (.307/16/74 between High-A and AA last year). He's stolen a perfect 10/10 bases, drawn 36 BB (55 K), has posted a .302 mark against LHP and is producing with ducks on the pond at a .304 clip. Kipnis is a "baseball player", plain and simple. He doesn't possess a single breathtaking tool, but the statistics are always present and his teams don't win games by accident. His plate discipline continues to progress with experience, and he's always been a natural line drive hitter with a compact stroke and good pop for a middle infield spot. He's far from an elite athlete at second base, however, which could be holding back his rise to the show. With that said, Orlando Cabrera is wallowing in futility, and Cord Phelps is behind Kipnis on the Indians food chain long (and possibly short) term. Yonder Alonso, LF Cincinnati The Cuba native and Miami University alum can finally see a crack of light at the end of the tunnel. His relocation to left field means the ever-large shadow of Joey Votto no longer holds the key to his future. If he can perform adequately defensively in the outfield, his advanced bat will earn him a shot at everyday at bats. In 22 MLB AB's last season he hit .207, striking out ten times against zero BB. Obviously those figures are not encouraging, but that sample size is hardly worth making a fuss about. The 7th overall selection in 2008 is having a stellar first half in the INT, hitting .306 with nine HR and 42 RBI. Perhaps more importantly, Alonso is finally showing signs of life against left-handed pitching, batting .300 with four long balls in 90 plate appearances. He's a mechanically sound, smart hitter, but it would be a pleasant sign to see him turn on the baseball with authority more frequently. Standing at 6'2 240, he should be leaving the park not just accumulating doubles. His slugging percentages have left something to be desired along his MiLB journey, as it seems he's sacrificing power for BA. Reds Manager Dusty Baker claims the team is not interested in infusing young talent just yet, even in the face of limited LF production. If that's the truly case, Alonso's name will surface once again as trade bait for a premium stick. He's not far off, that much is for certain. Written by Adam Ganeles exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team! (February 20, 2011 - Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images North America) Tags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Baseball Advice, 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, MiLB, The Farm Report, AA, AAA, Adam Ganeles, Collin Cowgill, Jason Kipnis, Yonder Alonso  Brad Peacock THE FARM REPORT - WEEK 12 Brad Peacock, RH SP Washington With a sparse track record of success entering this season, including an 18-34 W/L split over the last three seasons, the 2011 Brad Peacock has officially reached "lights out" status. The 23-year old, a former 41st round pick in 2006, has already been named Eastern League Pitcher of the Week twice. His stats definitely spark the imaginative juices: 8-2, 2.46 ERA, 50 hits allowed in 80 1/3 innings, 108:17 K:BB ratio (12.1 per nine) and .179 BAA. He's whiffed at least six in every start (high of 14). Apparently an added element on deception in his delivery has been the primary cause of his buoyed fortunes, improving command and adding velocity to his fastball. His 1.36 K/BB last year has soared to a mind-boggling 6.35 figure this season. Peacock throws a 4-seam fastball in the 92-95 range, a plus knuckle-curve and a developing 2-seam heater. His change is there for scouting report fodder only at this stage. His delivery looks far from max-effort, utilizing a strong lower body (abbreviated leg kick) and quick arm action. Peacock entered the season as an afterthought working in long relief, but has transformed himself into inevitable promotion material in 11 starts. If you’re seeking pitching aid in deeper leagues, it wouldn't be a bad bet to snatch him up now and avoid the bidding war. Those K totals are Brandon Beachy-esque. Dellin Betances, RH SP NY Yankees Standing at 6'8 260 pounds with an electric arm, Betances has many a batter shaking in his cleats entering the box. An unfortunate checklist of elbow problems have halted his rise up the ranks, but outside of a blister issue his 2011 has been injury-free. After dominating the FSL in 2010 (8-1, 2.11 ERA) he's continued to up the ante in his first taste of AA ball. In 12 game starts he's pitching to a 2.61 ERA, allowing 41 hits in 58 2/3 innings (.186 BAA) while striking out 67. When he's not missing bats, he's getting ground balls, sporting a 1.34 GO/AO ratio and .245 BABIP. Betances has bared down considerably with runners in scoring position, yielding a feeble .181 BAA in clutch situations and stranding 74.2% of runners. The downside: he's yet to pitch beyond six innings in any start, and his command continues to be hit or miss with 31 BB. His mechanics are herky jerky with a handful of moving parts, including a head jerk just prior to release. From a "stuff" perspective, he's essentially a two-pitch guy with a 4-seamer in the mid to upper 90's (high as 98) and a sharp, downer curve. Yankees GM Brian Cashman hinted that he wouldn't be opposed to using Betances out of the bullpen, and there have been rumors he could inhabit the role Joba took on in 2007. He's clearly being treated with kid gloves in terms of workload, so I'm not sure why'd the organization would disrupt the course of another young arm. To be determined. Casey Kelly, RH SP San Diego It's fair to say Kelly, 21, hasn't lived up to the advanced hype. Yet. The former High School shortstop had a rough go in the Eastern League last season, finishing up with a 5.31 ERA and .307 BAA (118 hits in 95 IP). Through 15 Texas League starts in 2011 he's been much sharper, but still quite hittable. He's 6-2 with a 3.94 ERA and 1.69 GO/AO ratio (1.43 last year), however, he's still surrendered 92 hits in 82 1/3 innings and opposing batters are squaring him up at a .283 clip. Kelly is striking out a pedestrian 6.89 per nine innings, made even less attractive given his .323 BABIP number. While these saber numbers are not encouraging, what do they really mean? The strengths of Kelly are not necessarily recordable by stats, especially given his lack of experience. What he does have is: pitchability, advanced command and mound intelligence. Kelly's delivery is effortless, looking like he's casually soft tossing in warmups. The life on his fastball continues to develop, reaching up to 92-94 consistently this season, in addition to seasoned secondary offerings in a curve and change. Overall, he's extremely projectable, and his potential far exceeds what he's displayed up to this point. Another centerpiece prospect in the A-Gon deal, Peter Gammons has reported that Kelly will join the Padres rotation imminently. There is no proof to support to contradict this claim from organizational brass. It doesn't appear that he's ready for the leap, but perhaps a bump in competition will serve to motivate and unlock a level he's yet to reach. Written by Adam Ganeles exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team! Tags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Baseball Advice, 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, MiLB, The Farm Report, AA, AAA, Adam Ganeles, Brad Peacock, Dellin Betances, Casey Kelley  Mike Trout (credits below) Mike Trout, CF LA Angels Still three months short of 20, Trout and his legit five tools continue to tear through AA. In a 57-game sample he's batting .330 with eight homers and 22 RBI, including a .422 mark in June and four consecutive multi-hit games. His plate discipline continues to excel, drawing 33 walks (.434 OBP) against 43 strikeouts. And of course, he's utilizing his wheels out of the leadoff spot at every opportunity, swiping 23 bags (56 last season) and legging out eight triples. At 6'1 200 with broad shoulders, advancements in the power number are expected, but at this point that's simply not his approach. He's focused on solid contact, and arguing with the results is an exercise in futility. Manager Mike Scioscia proclaims that Trout is not a major league option in the short term, however, that could change drastically if Peter Bourjos keeps swinging at air. The recently named Texas League All-Star will be playing in the show at some point in 2011. Matt Dominguez, 3B Florida Marlins Dominguez was given every chance to win the 3B job in spring training, but failed to distinguish himself at the plate. After recovering from a fractured elbow (six weeks), he once again appears on the brink of a promotion. His overall statistics in the PCL don't jump off the page (.253, four HR and 21 RBI), but he's picked up the pace in June hitting .325 following a .186 May. He hasn't proven himself to be a consistent average hitter at any level and his K rates have been exorbitant (24.7% 2009, 19% 2010). However, he has displayed a willingness to draw a free pass, work counts and hit from behind the eight ball. The soon to be 22-year old is a low-risk commodity, with gold glove capabilities at the hot corner and high baseball intelligence. With the Marlins needing an infusion of new blood, look for Dominguez to be playing everyday in Florida imminently. Xavier Avery, CF Baltimore Orioles Switching gears from two polished products to the abundantly raw Avery. The 21-year old outfielder's game is centered around speed, speed and more speed. He's stolen 20 bases, but his work in progress instincts have led to ten CS. His first full season in AA (fourth overall in MiLB) has been a struggle at the dish. He's sporting just a .255 BA and .313 OBP out of the leadoff spot, while striking out 67 times (26.8%). Avery's BABIP is a stout .352, but he simply doesn't put the ball in play, which is inexcusable for a left-handed hitter with long strides. He's failing to put his greatest asset to use. Last season's combined RBI total of 66 is a distant memory, batting a dismal .182 with RISP and driving in only seven runs. The potential to become a top of the order disruptor is significant for Avery, but his plan of attack needs to change. Written by Adam Ganeles exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team! (February 20, 2011 - Photo by Rob Tringali/Getty Images North America)  Tags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Baseball Advice, 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, MiLB, The Farm Report, AA, AAA, Adam Ganeles, Mike Trout, Matt Dominguez, Xavier Avery  Chris Archer Chris Archer, RH SP Tampa Bay The 22-year old right-hander has floundered badly in the opening two months of 2011. Archer was the primary piece in the deal that sent Matt Garza to Chicago, but his new surroundings in Tampa have not been beneficial. There is nothing positive to take from his consistently poor efforts in April and May: 74 hits in 58 2/3 innings, 31:52 BB:K ratio and .314 batting average against (.308 RHH). At this same level last season (AA Southern League), he won eight of 13 starts, surrendering just 48 hits in 70 innings (.198 BAA) and working to a 1.80 ERA. However, his 39 walks should have been a signal of struggles on the horizon. His overall control and command within the strike zone have been, in a word, abhorrent. There is nothing wrong with his stuff, but his hard curve is neutralized when he can't locate early in counts. His sinking fastball isn't chewing up bats like it did last year either (1.13 GO/AO). On a positive note, his best start came last time out, throwing six innings of two-run ball while walking only two. Archer has the build and the arm, now he needs to find consistency with his mechanics and throw strikes. The Rays don't make many mistakes with talent evaluation, so a 180 in performance is to be expected. Carlos Perez, LH SP Atlanta With only 25 career starts under his belt, Perez is very much a mysterious commodity. His numbers in the low A SAL highlight his raw attributes, giving up 76 hits and walking 25 in 64 innings of work. His mechanics are complex and a bit painful on the eyes, resulting in hit or miss command. He has a high, swinging leg kick and his ball hand almost hits the dirt before returning to (non-traditional) over the top throwing position. His funky delivery serves to hide the ball well, but there's entirely too much room for error. In 25 April innings he walked a mere six batters, however, that figure escalated to 15 walks in 33 2/3 May innings. As a result, his .252 BAA against in May still yielded a 6.42 ERA (as opposed to .318/4.68 in April). Perez possesses a true mid 90's "power sinker" (1.49 GO/AO), the makings of a filthy curve and useful change, but there are impairments that require correction, or at least slight modification. The ceiling on Perez is mighty high, but he's a project and the unknowns are plentiful. Mark Rogers, RH SP Milwaukee Following a constant battle with shoulder problems that stole 15 MPH off his triple-digit fastball, Rogers has caught another dose of cruel fortune. Now 25 years of age, the 2004 fifth overall selection has been disabled with carpel tunnel syndrome for the second time this season. The nerve issues were obviously debilitating his performance on the mound, specifically his ability to feel the baseball and throw strikes. In five PCL starts he pitched to a 13.20 ERA, allowing 21 hits and issuing 22 BB (12 K) in 15 innings. Command has never been a mainstay, but 1.5 walks per inning is a bit much. Keep in mind, this is the same pitcher who threw ten innings of two-hit ball in September and October in the big leagues last year, striking out 11 and walking three. Rogers name was emergent back atop prospect rankings, and he was widely considered an option for the back end of the Brewers rotation entering 2011. He was right on the doorstep to contributing and finally living up to the hype, but the latest injury situation has become impossible to project. Rogers is receiving cortisone injections in his wrist and has been out since May 25th. Intriguing pick from MLB Draft: Grayson Garvin, SP Vanderbilt– The 6'6 left-hander slipped to the Rays at #59 in the compensatory round. Originally slotted into a relief role, Garvin did nothing but win after entering the starting rotation for the 'Dores. His command is supreme and he's beginning to utilize his frame for enhanced velocity (90-94). He jumps at hitters upon completion of his delivery, making his change a very effective offering. His curve is just there for show at this point, and needs work. Garvin went 5-0 with a 0.70 ERA in the Cape Cod League last summer and doesn't shy away from upper level competition. He was instrumental in leading Vanderbilt to last year's Super Regional, both as a starter and in long relief. Written by Adam Ganeles exclusively for TheFantasyFix.com Follow The Fantasy Fix on Twitter @thefantasyfix or for Free Fantasy Sports Advice use our Quick Fix to get help with your team! (February 21, 2011 - Photo by Elsa/Getty Images North America)  Tags: The Fantasy Fix, 2011 Fantasy Baseball, Fantasy Baseball Advice, 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings, MiLB, The Farm Report, AA, AAA, Adam Ganeles, Chris Archer, Carlos Perez, Mark Rogers, Grayson Garvin | CategoriesAll NJ SEO Company
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