In this edition of Minor Developments, we'll highlight a few recent call-ups who should make an immediate fantasy impact down the stretch, as well as some prospects who are rising and falling as the '09 minor league season comes to a close.
Welcome to the show…
Eric Young Jr., 2B, Rockies: He had 58 steals in Triple-A prior to his promotion and will look to bring the same type of spark to the Rockies heading down the stretch. Young made strides in the power department in '09 as well, blasting seven home runs, as well as 21 doubles and 10 triples. His defense is suspect, but if he locks down a regular job in 2010, he could be a bargain middle infield option in all fantasy formats.
Matt LaPorta, 1B/OF, Indians: I'm not sure what took him so long to get recalled, since his .299/17/60 line in Triple-A was evidence that he had nothing left to prove at that level. He now has two homers in his last three games and has raised his season average to .260, with further growth expected. Not long ago he was being talked about as a possible 40-homer bat in his prime, and while those expectations may have dropped slightly, he's still capable of a .280/30/100 season in the very near future.
Prospects Rising
Desmond Jennings, OF, Rays: I've made it very clear in the past how much I love Jennings, and his recent performance since his promotion to Triple-A Durham has only enhanced that feeling. In his time with the Bulls, he owns a line of .292/2/11 in 89 at-bats and has stolen 12 bases. More impressive: He has a BB/K rate of 14/13, which is an elite number. He could be leading off in Tampa Bay as early as next season.
Brett Wallace, 3B, Athletics: He may be the guy who benefited most from a midseason trade, especially when looking at the gaping hole the A's have at third base. He's continued to hit well at Triple-A since the trade, with a line of .275/7/21. He'll need to continue to make strides defensively if he wants to find an opening day job in 2010.
Prospects Falling
Mat Gamel, 3B, Brewers: I'm still trying to figure out what is going on here, as his .278/10/45 line in Triple-A is not very inspiring, especially considering he hit .325 at Double-A in '08. Much like Wallace, defense is what is holding Gamel back. Gamel may never find a position that a team will feel comfortable using him at. Boredom/Major League-itis could be the issue here, making him a potential bargain for those in dynasty formats. I still believe he'll hit well in the majors.
Lars Anderson, 1B, Red Sox: He may be the biggest disappointment in the minors this year, posting a line of .245/9/51 in Double-A. Considered by many to be the Red Sox' best position prospect heading into the season, he's been passed by Josh Reddick, and Ryan Westmoreland isn't far behind in terms of status. A back injury could be the cause of his decline, making him someone to closely monitor in 2010.
