The analysts over at Fangraphs recently compiled a post listing their assessment of the 2014 top ten prospects in the Mets farm system. They took a good look at each player listed and included an in-depth assessment of their choice.
They ranked the prospects in order:
#10 — Wilmer Flores (3B)
#9 — Gavin Cecchini (SS)
#8 — Steven Matz (P)
#7 — Jacob deGrom (P)
#6 — Kevin Plawecki (C)
#5 — Rafael Montero (P)
#4 — Amed Rosario (SS)
#3 — Dominic Smith (1B)
#2 — Travis d’Arnaud (C)
It was interesting to see Dominic Smith placed so far up in the order after only his first season as a professional. The young first baseman is only 18-years-old, and Fangraphs was extremely impressed with the mentality and abilities he displayed this season. Smith spent most of his time this season with the GCL Mets hitting .287/.384/.407, before being moved to Kingsport for three games. However, Fangraphs believes this is only the beginning of his rapid ascent.
The Scouting Report: Smith was even more advanced at the plate than expected. He should hit for average and power while also getting on-base at a healthy clip. His power is generated by quick bat speed and he doesn’t have to pull the ball to hit it out of the park. Like many young hitters, he has work to do against same-handed pitchers. At first base, he could develop into on of the best fielder in the game at his position thanks to his athleticism around the bag and soft hands.
The Year Ahead: Smith is advanced and mature enough to handle a jump to full-season ball in his first full pro season. He could move fairly quickly for such a young player and could reach the Majors in late 2016.
The Career Outlook: Smith has a chance to be an impact player both as a middle-of-the-order hitter and as a defensive whiz at first base.
Fangraphs also included a short briefing on the five players who just missed the list. These names included Dilson Herrera, Michael Fulmer, Domingo Tapia, Brandon Nimmo and Vic Black.
Over at MetsMinors, we have compiled our own prospect ranking. You can find our list of the top 25 prospects here.
(Photo Credit: Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
I can’t take this list seriously. Talk about disrespectful to Wilmer Flores. The kid hit .321 with 15 HRs while learning second base as a 21 year old in AAA. I would have him slotted third behind Montero and ahead of D’Arnaud due to D’Arnaud’s health history.
How is Smith in the top 5? And Rosario in the top 10? Where is Puello and Tapia?
Timothy,
The MMN list is outdated and compiled in mid-May. Doesn’t relate to a list compiled in mid December.
WL–“The Kid’s” MLEs have his OBP in the majors right around .300. His ability to take a walk hasn’t improved one whit since he broke into pro ball. He’ll barely hit a dozen HRs in a season, he’s not a smart baserunner, and he lacks the quickness to play the MI. A better question is, why is he on this list at all?