Evaluating the 2021 St. Louis Cardinals' Prospects: #1-20

This time around, I decided to rate the 2021 St. Louis Cardinals' prospects that are currently in their organization.  After sifting through numerous websites, such as Prospects Live, Prospects 1500, Baseball Reference, and Fangraphs, I have poured over information to rate them accordingly.  Here are my rankings of the St. Louis Cardinals' prospects for the 2021 season.

I also attempted to project each of the top 20 prospects that I'm ranking in the St. Louis Cardinals' system for the 2021 season.  Without further ado, let's go to it, shall we say?

Dylan Carlson's 2020 Rookie of the Year campaign didn't go as expected, but he showed a solid glove, and he played better towards the end of the 2020 MLB season.  He also especially played well in the 2020 playoffs, which is an encouraging sign for how he may fare in the upcoming season.
(Photo: Ron Vesely/Getty Images)

1. OF Dylan Carlson - B+

Last year, I rated Dylan Carlson as one of the most ready prospects for the majors after having a terrific 2019 season, and I felt that he was a dark horse contender for the 2020 NL Rookie of the Year award.  Unfortunately, he didn’t start the season in the majors, and he got off to a very slow start in the shortened 2020 season.

On the bright side, Carlson has fielded well in the big leagues, and he also managed to hit well in the postseason.  While he might not have the upside as the other elite prospects, Carlson has the skills to be a solid major league player, especially if his bat can come around this time.

2020 (STL/MLB):
.200 AVG, 3 HR, 16 RBI, 1 SB, .252 OBP, .364 SLG, .616 OPS, 29.4 K%, 0.2 WAR

2020 (STL Postseason):
.333 AVG, 0 HR, 0 RBI, 1 SB, .571 OBP, .444 SLG, 1.016 OPS, 21.4 K%

2019 (AAA): .
361 AVG, 5 HR, 9 RBI, 2 SB, .418 OBP, .681 SLG, 1.098 OPS, 22.8 K%

2019 (AA):
.281 AVG, 21 HR, 59 RBI, 18 SB, .364 OBP, .518 SLG, .882 OPS,  20.3 K%

Projected 2021 Season:

2021 (MLB): 110 GP, 412 PA, 373 AB, 91 H, 12 HR, 40 RBI, 20 2B, 5 3B, 29 BB, 5 HBP, 5 SF, 6 SB, 4 CS, 114 K

Dylan Carlson’s Projected 2021 Season (Age 22 season):

2021 (STL/MLB): .244 AVG, 12 HR, 40 RBI, 6 SB, .303 OBP, .421 SLG, .724 OPS, 27.7 K%, 1.7 WAR (mostly glove-related)

2021’s Player’s Age (22) Season

Carlson’s 2021 Rating: 2 stars (3.5 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starting Right Fielder for the 2021 St. Louis Cardinals

Future role: Starting Right Fielder for the 2021 St. Louis Cardinals

ETA: 2021

Nolan Gorman is a prized prospect in the Cardinals' farm system, but he didn't exactly dominate in the minors in 2019, and his strikeout rates in the minors may be rather alarming for a player that is considered to be a top prospect.
(Photo: Joe Robbins/Getty Images)

2. 3B Nolan Gorman - B

Nolan Gorman has been a prized prospect in the Cardinals’ farm system for plenty of years now.  He is an offensive minded, power-hitting third baseman that can hit and mash, and he’s been rated very high on prospect boards across many websites.  

One alarming trend though, is that he has consistently struck out at high rates in the minors, and he hasn’t quite played nearly as well at higher levels.  He’s got plenty of potential, but there is a concern that his high whiff rate may not bode well for him in the high minors.

2020 (STL): Did not play

2019 (A+):  .256 AVG, 5 HR, 21 RBI, .304 OBP, .428 SLG, .732 OPS, 31.7 K%

2019 (A): .241 AVG, 10 HR, 41 RBI, .344 OBP, .448 SLG, .792 OPS, 28 K%

2018 (A): .202 AVG, 6 HR, 16 RBI, .280 OBP, .426 SLG, .706 OPS, 36.4 K%

2018 (Rk): .350 AVG, 11 HR, 28 RBI, .443 OBP, .664 SLG, 1.107 OPS, 22.2 K%

Projected 2021 Season (20/21 Season):

2021 (AA): 100 GP, 422 PA, 385 AB, 93 H, 12 HR, 45 RBI, 20 2B, 4 3B, 29 BB, 6 HBP, 2 SF, 1 SB, 2 CS, 141 K

2021 (AAA): 25, 106 PA, 97 AB, 22 H, 3 HR, 10 RBI, 4 2B, 1 3B, 6 BB, 2 HBP, 1 SF, 0 SB, 1 CS, 37 K

Nolan Gorman’s Projected 2021 Season (Age 20/21 season):

(AA): .242 AVG, 12 HR, 45 RBI, 1 SB, .303 OBP, .408 SLG,  .711 OPS, 33.4 K%

(AAA): .227 AVG, 3 HR, 10 RBI, 0 SB, .283 OBP, .381 SLG, .664 OPS, 34.9 K%

2021’s Player’s Age (20/21) Season

Gorman’s 2021 Rating: 0.5 stars (3 star potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starting AA Third Baseman in the Cardinals’ Farm system

Future role: Starting Third Baseman on the St. Louis Cardinals

ETA: 2022

3. SS/RHP Masyn Winn - B

2020 (HS): 

As a hitter, .417 AVG, 8 HR, 46 RBI

As a pitcher, 13-0, 0.67 ERA, 76.1 IP, 117 K, 13.8 K/9

Link: https://arkansas.rivals.com/news/first-arkansas-signee-off-the-board-in-2020-mlb-draft

2019 (HS): Stats not available.

Masyn Winn is a two-way player that can play multiple positions, and he was drafted to play both shortstop and be a pitcher in the St. Louis Cardinals’ farm system.  He is said to have very good tools both as a shortstop and as a pitcher.  He has not played in the minors, but he is a young player that may possess plenty of upside as a prospect for the majors.

2021 Season Projection: Not available.

2021’s Player’s Age (19) Season

Winn’s 2021 Rating: 0.5 stars (3 Star potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starter in Rookie Ball in the St. Louis Cardinals’ Farm System

Future role: Starter in the majors

ETA: 2025

 

4. 3B Jordan Walker - B

2020 (HS): 16 GP, .457 AVG, 4 HR, 15 RBI, N/A OBP, N/A SLG, N/A OPS

2019 (HS): .519 AVG, 17 HR, 60 RBI, 24 SB, N/A OBP, N/A SLG, N/A OPS

Link: His Wikipedia page

Jordan Walker is a skilled third baseman that can certainly hit the baseball.  He has a strong set of all-around tools, and he was the Cardinals’ first round draft pick in 2020.  He has not played in the minors, but he is a young player that may possess plenty of upside as a prospect for the majors.

2021 Season Projection: Not available.

2021’s Walker's Age (18/19) Season

Player’s 2021 Rating: 0.5 stars (3 Star potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starter in Rookie Ball in the St. Louis Cardinals’ Farm System

Future role: Starter in the majors

ETA: 2025

5. LHP Zack Thompson - B-

2020 (STL): Did not play.

2019 (A+): 0-0, 4.05 ERA, 13.1 IP, 10.8 H9, 0 HR9, 2.7 BB9, 12.8 K9

2019 (Rk): 0-0, 0.00 ERA, 2 IP, 13.5 H9, 0 HR9, 0 BB9, 18 K9

2019 (NCAA): 6-1, 2.40 ERA, 90 IP, 5.9 H9, 0.3 HR9, 3.4 BB9, 13 K9

2018 (NCAA): 2-1, 4.94 ERA, 31 IP, 7 H9, 1.2 HR9, 5.8 BB9, 12.2 K9

Zack Thompson is a left-handed pitcher that has three good pitches, with his best pitch being a solid curveball that has a tight spin.  He also has an effective changeup.  He hasn’t pitched much in the minors, but he played very well in college baseball in 2019, and he’s shown that he can consistently strike hitters out at high rates.  He could project to at best be a mid-tier starting pitcher in the majors, or at least a power bullpen arm that can strike hitters out in the big leagues.

2021 Season Projections (Age 23 season):

2021 (AA): 20 GP, 20 GS, 108.2 IP, 58 ER, 4-4, 111 H, 11 HR, 54 BB, 118 K, 3.83 FIP

2021 (AAA): 8 GP, 0 GS, 8.2 IP, 5 ER, 0-1, 9 H, 1 HR, 5 BB, 10 K

2021 (MLB): 8 GP, 0 GS, 7.1 IP, 5 ER, 8 H, 1-0, 1 HR, 5 BB, 8 K, 

Zack Thompson’s 2021 Season Projections:

2021 (AA): 4-4, 4.80 ERA, 108.2 IP, 9.2 H9, 0.9 HR9, 4.5 BB9, 9.8 K9, 3.83 FIP

2021 (AAA): 0-1, 5.19 ERA, 9.3 H9, 1.0 HR9, 5.2 BB9, 10.4 K9, 4.12 FIP

2021 (MLB): 1-0, 6.14 ERA, 9.8 H9, 1.2 HR9, 6.1 BB9, 9.8 K9, 4.99 FIP, 0 WAR

2021’s Player’s Age (23) Season

Thompson’s 2021 Rating: 1 stars (2.5 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starting pitcher in AA in the Cardinals’ farm system

Future role: Backend starter or versatile bullpen arm in the majors

ETA: 2021

Matthew Liberatore will finally pitch in the St. Louis Cardinals' farm system, but did they give up too much in trading away Arozarena to get him?
(Photo: Austin Anthony/Bowling Green Daily News)

6. LHP Matthew Liberatore - B-

2020 (STL): Did not play.

2019 (A): 6-2, 3.10 ERA, 78.1 IP, 8 H9, 0.2 HR9, 3.6 BB9, 8.7 K9

2018 (Rk): 2-2, 1.38 ERA, 32.2 IP, 5.8 H9, 0 HR9, 3.6 BB9, 10.2 K9

He is a young, left-handed pitcher that was acquired in a trade that sent Randy Arozarena to the Tampa Bay Rays.  Liberatore is a former first round pick, and he is a hard thrower that is said to have good control and breaking stuff.  He’s struggled a bit with his control in A ball a bit, but he is considered to be one of the best prospects in the Cards’ organization, and is said to have potentially ace-level stuff in the future.

2021 Season Projections (Age: 21 season)

2021 (AA): 20 GP, 103 IP, 6-4, 106 H, 61 ER, 9 HR, 55 BB, 85 K

2021 (A): 5 GP, 26.2 IP, 2-1, 7 ER, 22 H, 8 BB, 0 HR, 29 K

2021 (AAA): 1 GP, 3.2 IP, 0-0, 2 ER, 4 H, 0 HR, 2 BB, 3 K

Matthew Liberatore’s 2021 Season Projections (Age 21 season):

2021 (A): 2-1, 2.36 ERA, 26.2 IP, 7.4 H9, 0 HR9, 2.7 BB9, 9.8 K9, 1.92 FIP

2021 (AA): 6-4. 5.33 ERA, 103 IP, 9.3 H9, 0.8 HR9, 4.8 BB9, 7.4 K9, 4.29 FIP

2021 (AAA): 0-0, 4.91 ERA, 3.2 IP, 9.8 H9, 0 HR9, 4.9 BB9, 7.4 K9, 3.20 FIP

2021’s Player’s Age (21) Season

Liberatore's 2021 Rating: 0.5 stars (2.5 star potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starting pitcher in AA in the Cardinals’ farm system

Future role: Middle of the rotation starter on the St. Louis Cardinals years from now

ETA: 2022

7. C Ivan Herrera - B-

Ivan Herrera is a young catcher whose best trait is his hit tool.  He can hit for a high batting average, and he may have the patience to be able to get on base at a fairly high rate at higher levels.  On the downside, he hasn’t shown much pop in his bat at higher levels, and he struggled in the Mexican Pacific Winter League this year.  Still, his ability to hit and get on base makes him an intriguing prospect on the Cardinals’ team.

2020-21 (MXPW): .184 AVG, 0 HR, 9 RBI, .310 OBP, .204 SLG, .514 OPS, 22.4 K%,
Defense: 52 CS%

2019 (AZFL): .324 AVG, 0 HR, 6 RBI, .439 OBP, .382 SLG, .821 OPS, 9.8 K%, 
Defense: 33 CS%

2019 (A+): .276 AVG, 1 HR, 5 RBI, .338 OBP, .328 SLG, .666 OPS, 24.6 K%,
Defense: 33 CS%

2019 (A): .286 AVG, 8 HR, 42 RBI, .381 OBP, .423 SLG, .805 OPS, 19.2 K%,
Defense: 30 CS%

Ivan Herrera’s Projected 2021 season (Age 20/21 season):

2021 (A): 20 GP, 83 PA, 69 AB, 21 H, 2 HR, 3 2B, 0 3B, 1 SB, 0 CS, 11 BB, 2 HBP, 1 SF, 14 K, 
Defense: 7 CS, 13 SB

2021 (AA): 100 GP, 413 PA, 366 AB, 89 H, 4 HR, 44 RBI, 7 2B, 0 3B, 36 BB, 8 HBP, 3 SF, 93 K, 1 SB, 2 CS,
Defense: 42 CS, 83 SB

2021 (AAA): 5 GP, 15 PA, 13 AB, 3 H, 0 HR, 3 RBI, 0 2B, 0 3B, 1 BB, 1 HBP, 0 SF, 0 SB, 0 CS, 4 K,
Defense: 2 CS, 5 SB

Ivan Herrera's Projected 2021 season (Age 20/21 season):

2021 (A): .304 AVG, 2 HR, 18 RBI, 1 SB, .410 OBP, .435 SLG, .844 OPS, 16.9 K%, 35 CS%

2021 (AA): .243 AVG, 4 HR, 44 RBI, 1 SB, .322 OBP, .295 SLG, .617 OPS, 22.5 K%, 33.6 CS%

2021 (AAA): .231 AVG, 0 HR, 3 RBI, 0 SB, .333 OBP, .231 SLG, .564 OPS, 26.7 K%, 28.6 CS%

2021’s Player’s Age (20/21) Season

Herrera’s 2021 Rating: 0.5 stars (2.5 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starting catcher in AA in the St. Louis Cardinals’ farm system

Future role: Starting catcher for either the St. Louis Cardinals or another team in the majors years from now

ETA: 2023

8. RHP Tink Hence - B-

2020 (HS): 0.00 ERA, 18 IP, 41 K, 4 BB, 2 BB9, 20.5 K9

2019 (HS): 0.64 ERA, 43.2 IP, 61 K, 12.6 K/9

Link: https://arkansas.rivals.com/news/hard-throwing-in-state-rhp-selected-in-2020-mlb-draft

He is a young pitcher that throws hard, and he has two very good pitches, as he has a solid fastball and a curveball.  Hence also is said to have good control and command of his pitches, but he will need to develop more of a repertoire in his arsenal.

2021 Season Projection: N/A

2021’s Player’s Age (18/19) Season

Hence’s 2021 Rating: 0.5 stars (2.5 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starting pitcher in Rookie-ball in the minors

Future role: Backend starter or versatile bullpen arm in the majors

ETA: 2025

9. RHP Angel Rondon - C+

2020-21 (MXPW): 0-1, 3.29 ERA, 13.2 IP, 9.9 H9, 0.7 HR9, 4.6 BB9, 7.2 K9

2019 (AA): 6-6, 3.21 ERA, 115 IP, 7.7 H9, 0.9 HR9, 3.3 BB9, 8.8 K9

2019 (A+): 5-1, 2.20 ERA, 45 IP, 5.2 H9, 0.6 HR9, 3.4 BB9, 9.4 K9

Angel Rondon is a young pitcher that pitched well in AA in 2019, and he has three solid pitches.  He has a good fastball and a curveball, and a reliable changeup offering.  He will need to improve his control and command, but he could fit into any role in the majors if he continues to progress as expected.

Projected 2021 season (age 23 season):

2021 (AAA): 26 GP, 26 GS, 5-8, 141 IP, 69 ER, 142 H, 21 HR, 69 BB, 116 K, 4.96 FIP

2021 (MLB): 5 GP, 0 GS, 0-0, 6 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 1 HR, 3 BB, 5 K, 5.35 FIP

Angel Rondon’s Projected 2021 season (age 23 season):

2021 (AAA): 5-8, 4.40 ERA, 141 IP, 9.1 H9, 1.3 HR9, 4.4 BB9, 7.4 K9, 4.96 FIP

2021 (MLB): 0-0, 4.50 ERA, 6 IP, 9.0 H9, 1.5 HR9, 4.5 BB9, 7.5 K9, 5.35 FIP, 0 WAR

2021’s Player’s Age (23) Season

Angel Rondon’s 2021 Rating: 1.0 stars (2.5 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role:  Starting Pitcher in AAA in the Cardinals’ farm system

Future role: Backend starter in the majors or versatile bullpen arm in the majors

ETA: 2021

Johan Oviedo had a respectable 2020 season during his time up in the majors, yet he still counts as a rookie yet again for the upcoming season.  However, he didn't pitch well in AA in 2019.  The question about Oviedo in 2021 is whether or not if he's poised for more innings in the majors, or if his 2020 season performance was perhaps a fluke.
(Photo: Benny Sieu/USA Today Sports)

10. RHP Johan Oviedo - C+

2020 (STL/MLB): 0-3, 5.47 ERA, 24.2 IP, 8.8 H9, 1.1 HR9, 3.6 BB9, 5.8 K9, 5.30 FIP, 0.1 WAR

2019 (AA): 7-8, 5.65 ERA, 113 IP, 9.6 H9, 0.7 HR9, 5.1 BB9, 10.2 K9

2019 (A+): 5-0, 1.60 ERA, 33.2 IP, 7.8 H9, 0.3 HR9, 3.2 BB9, 9.4 K9

Johan Oviedo is a tall, right-handed pitcher that reached the majors in the shortened 2020 season, and he consistently throws in the mid-90s.  His best pitch is that he throws a heavy slider and he gets good spin on it that can fool hitters.  On the downside, he will need to improve his control and command.  He has enough talent to reach the majors and potentially be an effective pitcher there this season, but he will need to find a way to put his skills all together to reach his full potential.

Projected 2021 season (age 23 season):

2021 (AA): 1 GP, 5.1 IP, 5 H, 1-0, 2 ER, 0 HR, 2 BB, 6 K

2021 (AAA): 26 GP, 26 GS, 128 IP, 76 ER, 6-10, 130 H, 15 HR, 63 BB, 124 K, 4.26 FIP 

2021 (MLB): 5 GP, 1 GS, 7.1 IP, 4 ER, 0-1, 7 H, 1 HR, 4 BB, 6 K

Johan Oviedo’s Projected 2021 season (age 23 season):

2021 (AA): 1-0, 3.38 ERA, 5.1 IP, 8.4 H9, 0 HR9, 3.4 BB9, 10.1 K9, 2.07 FIP

2021 (AAA): 6-10, 5.34 ERA, 128 IP, 9.1 H9, 1.1 HR9, 4.4 BB9, 8.7 K9, 4.26 FIP

2021 (MLB): 0-1, 4.91 ERA, 8.6 H9, 1.2 HR9, 4.9 BB9, 7.4 K9, 5.57 FIP, 0.0 WAR

2021’s Player’s Age (23) Season

Player’s 2021 Rating: 1 stars (2.5 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starting pitcher in AAA in the Cardinals’ farm system

Future role: Backend starter or versatile bullpen arm in the majors

ETA: 2021

Edwin Nunez is a talented prospect who has yet to pitch for the St. Louis Cardinals.  They say he can throw up to 100 miles per hour, which sounds like a Paul Bunyan-esque tall tale, but Nunez's upside could be even higher if he can quickly climb up the minors.
(Photo: Laurie Skrivan/St. Louis Post Dispatch)

11. RHP Edwin Nunez - C+

He’s received rave reviews by Prospects 1500, and he’s said that he can throw up to 100 MPH.  He also has a curveball, but he has yet to pitch in the minors.

2021 Season Projection: N/A

2021’s Player’s Age (19) Season

Player’s 2021 Rating: 0.5 stars (2.5 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starter in rookie-ball

Future role: Bullpen arm in the majors

ETA: 2025

Junior Fernandez quickly climbed up the minors as he pitched very well there in 2019, but he hasn't quite translated that into major-league production yet.  Time will tell if he'll pitch in the majors this season or in 2022.
(Photo: Jay Biggerstaff/USA Today Sports)

12. RHP Junior Fernandez - C

2020 (STL/MLB): 0-0, 18.00 ERA, 3 IP, 18 H9, 3 HR9, 6 BB9, 6 K9, 8.19 FIP, -0.1 WAR

2019 (STL/MLB): 0-1, 5.40 ERA, 11.2 IP, 6.9 H9, 1.5 HR9, 4.6 BB9, 12.3 K9, 5.27 FIP, -0.1 WAR

2019 (AAA): 2-1, 1.48 ERA, 24.1 IP, 6.3 H9, 0 HR9, 4.1 BB9, 10 K9

2019 (AA): 1-1, 1.55 ERA, 29 IP, 5.6 H9, 0 HR9, 3.4 BB9, 13 K9

2019 (A+): 0-0, 1.54 ERA, 11.2 IP, 6.2 H9, 0 HR9, 6.2 BB9, 8.5 K9

Projected 2021 season:

2021 (AAA): 38 GP, 3-2, 1.66 ERA, 54.1 IP, 10 ER, 40 H, 2 HR, 23 BB, 68 K, 7 SV, 2.45 FIP

2021 (MLB): 20 GP, 1-1, 21.2 IP, 11 ER, 0 SV, 20 H, 3 HR, 12 BB, 27 K, 5.00 FIP

Junior Fernandez's Projected 2021 season (Age 24 season):

2021 (AAA): 3-2, 1.66 ERA, 7 SV, 54.1 IP, 6.6 H9, 0.3 HR9, 3.8 BB9, 11.3 K9, 2.45 FIP

2021 (MLB): 1-1, 4.57 ERA, 21.2 IP, 8.3 H9, 1.2 HR9, 5.0 BB9, 11.2 K9, 5.00 FIP, 0.1 WAR

2021’s Player’s Age (24) Season

Fernandez’s 2021 Rating: 1.5 stars (2 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role: Vacillate between AAA and the majors as a bullpen arm

Future role: Bullpen arm in the majors

ETA: 2021

Edmundo Sosa has consistently put up solid numbers in the minors, but he hasn't gotten much run in the majors, and he didn't end up getting any time up in the big leagues in 2020.  It's uncertain when he'll be able to be a full-time major league player, or if the Cardinals will be the team to give him that playing time, but Sosa is talented infielder that can hit.
(Photo: Steve Mitchell/USA Today Sports)

13. SS Edmundo Sosa - C

2020 (STL/MLB): Did not play.

2019 (STL/MLB): .250 AVG, 0 HR, 0 RBI, 1 SB, .450 OBP, .250 SLG, .650 OPS, 20.0 K%, 0 WAR

2019 (AAA): .291 AVG, 17 HR, 62 RBI, 2 SB, .335 OBP, .466 SLG, .801 OPS, 19.4 K%

2018 (STL/MLB): .000 AVG, 0 HR, 0 RBI, .333 OBP, .000 SLG, .333 OPS, 33.3 K%, 0 WAR

2018 (AAA): .262 AVG, 5 HR, 27 RBI, 5 SB, .321 OBP, .408 SLG, .729 OPS, 20.1 K%

2018 (AA): .276 AVG, 7 HR, 32 RBI, 1 SB, .308 OBP, .429 SLG, .737 OPS, 18.7 K%

Edmundo Sosa is an offensive-minded infielder that has hit well in the minors, but he hasn’t played much in the majors because he’s been blocked by other players in front of him.  It’s not certain if he will find much playing time in the big leagues this year or make the opening day, but he is a good player to have in the organization, as he will be ready to play if the Cardinals need him this season.

Projected 2021 season

2021 (AAA): 100 GP, 404 PA, 368 AB, 115 H, 16 HR, 64 RBI, 20 2B, 4 3B, 22 BB, 10 HBP, 4 SF, 72 K, 5 SB, 3 CS

2021 (MLB): 40 GP, 77 PA, 68 AB, 17 H, 2 HR, 2 2B, 1 3B, 6 BB, 2 HBP, 1 SF, 1 SB, 1 CS, 16 K

Edmundo Sosa's Projected 2021 season (Age 25 season):

2021 (AAA): .313 AVG, 16 HR, 64 RBI, 5 SB, .364 OBP, .519 SLG, .883 OPS, 17.8 K%

2021 (MLB): .250 AVG, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 1 SB, .325 OBP, .397 OBP, .722 OPS, 20.8 K%, 0.3 WAR

2021’s Player’s Age (25) Season

Sosa’s 2021 Rating: 1.5 stars (2 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starting shortstop or second baseman in AAA

Future role: Backup infielder in the majors

ETA: 2021

Kodi Whitley opened the season on the Major League roster and pitched well in his brief time up, but injuries and COVID sidelined him in 2020, and he will need to continue to pitch well to secure a spot on the Major League roster in 2021.
(Photo: David Carson/St. Louis Post-Dispatch)

14. RHP Kodi Whitley - C

2020 (STL/MLB): 0-0, 1.93 ERA, 4.2 IP, 3.9 H9, 1.9 HR9, 1.9 BB9, 9.6 K9, 4.48 FIP, 0 WAR

2019 (AAA): 2-0, 1.52 ERA, 23.2 IP, 8 H9, 0 HR9, 1.5 BB9, 10.3 K9

2019 (AA): 1-4, 1.83 ERA, 39.1 IP, 7.1 H9, 0.7 HR9, 3 BB9, 10.5 K9

2019 (AZFL): 0-1, 2.45 ERA, 11 IP, 6.5 H9, 0.8 HR9, 0.8 BB9, 10.6 K9

Kodi Whitley is a bullpen pitcher that briefly pitched in the majors, but he ended up missing a considerable portion of the season due to COVID.  He has three solid pitches, as he has an above average fastball, changeup, and a useful slider pitch that can enable him to get outs.  He’ll have a chance to make the opening day roster once again, and he could be an effective bullpen pitcher on the Cardinals’ team this season.

Projected 2021 Season (Age 26 season):

2021 (AAA): 25 GP, 2-2, 33.2 IP, 7 ER, 30 H, 3 HR, 9 BB, 40 K, 5 SV

2021 (MLB): 20 GP, 1-1, 24 IP, 8 ER, 20 H, 4 HR, 7 BB, 26 K

Kodi Whitley's Projected 2021 Season (Age 26 season):

2021 (AAA): 2-2, 1.87 ERA, 5 SV, 33.2 IP, 8 H9, 0.8 HR9, 2.4 BB9, 10.7 K9

2021 (MLB): 1-1, 3.00 ERA, 24 IP, 7.5 H9, 1.5 HR9, 2.6 BB9, 9.8 K9, 4.07 FIP, 0.1 WAR

2021’s Player’s Age (26) Season

Whitley’s 2021 Rating: 1.5 stars (2 star potential)

Expected 2021 role: Vacillate between AAA and the majors as a bullpen arm

Future role: Bullpen arm in the majors

ETA: 2021

15. OF Justin Williams - C

2020 (MLB): .200 AVG, 0 HR, 0 RBI, 0 SB, .333 OBP, .200 SLG, .533 OPS, 33.3 K%

2019 (AAA): .353 AVG, 7 HR, 26 RBI, .437 OBP, .608 SLG, 1.045 OPS, 25.2 K%

2019 (AA): .193 AVG, 1 HR, 3 RBI, 1 SB, .246 OBP, .263 SLG, .509 OPS, 27.9 K%

2018 (AAA): .252 AVG, 11 HR, 57 RBI, 4 SB, .307 OBP, .379 SLG, .685 OPS, 21.2 K%

2018 (MLB): .000 AVG, 0 HR, 0 RBI, .000 OPS, 0 K%

Justin Williams had been acquired when the Cardinals dealt Tommy Pham to Tampa Bay.  Williams hasn't quite panned out as well as expected, but he's shown that he can hit AAA pitching by now.  While he hasn't played well in the majors yet, his strong season in AAA in 2019 may suggest that he could be worthy of being a full-time regular in the majors either this season or the next.

Projected 2021 season (Age 25/26 season):

2021 (AAA): 100 GP, 385 PA, 341 AB, 97 H, 12 HR, 50 RBI, 14 2B, 1 3B, 39 BB, 3 HBP, 2 SF, 4 SB, 3 CS, 82 K

2021 (MLB): 15 GP, 29 PA, 25 AB, 6 H, 0 HR, 2 RBI, 1 2B, 0 3B, 4 BB, 0 HBP, 0 SF, 0 SB, 0 CS, 7 K

Justin Williams' Projected 2021 season:

2021 (AAA): .284 AVG, 12 HR, 50 RBI, 4 SB, .361 OBP, .437 SLG, .798 OPS, 21.3 K%

2021 (MLB): .240 AVG, 0 HR, 2 RBI, 0 SB, .345 OBP, .280 SLG, .625 OPS, 24.1 K%, 0 WAR

2021’s Player’s Age (25/26) Season

Williams' 2021 Rating: 1.5 stars (2 star potential)

Expected 2021 role: Vacillate between AAA and the majors

Future role: Bench outfielder in the majors

ETA: 2021

16. RHP Seth Elledge - C

2020 (MLB): 1-0, 4.63 ERA, 8.5 H9, 1.5 HR9, 6.2 BB9, 10.8 K9, 5.33 FIP, 0 WAR

2019 (AAA): 3-1, 4.72 ERA, 7.3 H9, 0.8 HR9, 5.0 BB9, 8.4 K9

2019 (AA): 3-3, 3.78 ERA, 9.2 H9, 0.8 HR9, 3.5 BB9, 11.6 K9

Seth Elledge had reached the majors in 2020, and he could be a bullpen arm in the majors this season in 2021.

Projected 2021 season stats (age 24/25 season):

2021 (AAA): 25 GP, 2-2, 35.2 IP, 16 ER, 30 H, 3 HR, 17 BB, 39 K

2021 (MLB): 20 GP, 1-1, 24.2 IP, 12 ER, 23 H, 3 HR, 14 BB, 28 K

Projected 2021 season stats (age 24/25 season):

2021 (AAA): 2-2, 4.04 ERA, 35.2 IP, 7.6 H9, 0.8 HR9, 4.3 BB9, 9.8 K9, 3.54 FIP

2021 (MLB): 1-1, 4.38 ERA, 24.2 IP, 8.4 H9, 1.1 HR9, 5.1 BB9, 10.2 K9, 4.46 FIP, 0.1 WAR

2021’s Player’s Age (24/25) Season

Elledge’s 2021 Rating: 1.5 stars (2 star potential)

Expected 2021 role: Vacillate between AAA and the majors as a bullpen arm

Future role: Bullpen arm in the majors

ETA: 2021

Ali Sanchez hit the ball well in AA, and scouts have rated his glove well, but he struggled to hit the ball in AAA or the majors, and he hasn't shown much pop in his bat at all at the higher levels.
(Photo: Ed Delany/MMO)

17. C Ali Sanchez – C

2020 (NYM/MLB): .111 AVG, 0 HR, 0 RBI, .200 OBP, .111 SLG, .311 OPS, 30 K%, -0.1 WAR, Defense: 0 CS%

2019 (AAA): .179 AVG, 0 HR, 3 RBI, .277 OBP, .250 SLG, .527 OPS, 16.9 K%,
Defense: 63 CS%

2019 (AA): .278 AVG, 1 HR, 30 RBI, 1 SB, .337 OBP, .337 SLG, .674 OPS, 17.7 K%,
Defense: 42 CS%

Ali Sanchez is a defensive minded catcher that reached the majors briefly in 2020.  He hit well in AA in 2019, but struggled to hit well at higher levels beyond that.  He also doesn’t run well nor have much pop in his bat.  He could contend to for a backup catcher job in the majors sometime in the future, and he could be a prospect to watch this season.

Projected 2021 season:

2021 (AAA): 100 GP, 362 PA, 318 AB, 77 H, 6 HR, 27 RBI, 18 2B, 0 3B, 33 BB, 8 HBP, 3 SF, 1 SB, 2 CS, 74 K,
Defense: 36 CS, 51 SB

2021 (MLB): 10 GP, 23 PA, 21 AB, 5 H, 0 HR, 3 RBI, 1 2B, 0 3B, 2 BB, 0 HBP, 0 SF, 0 SB, 0 CS, 6 K,
Defense: 3 CS, 7 SB

Ali Sanchez's Projected 2021 season:

2021 (AAA): .242 AVG, 6 HR, 27 RBI, 1 SB, .326 OBP, .355 SLG, .681 OPS, 20.4 K%, 41.4 CS%

2021 (MLB): .238 AVG, 0 HR, 3 RBI, 0 SB, .304 OBP, .286 SLG, .590 OPS, 26.1 K%, 0 WAR, 30 CS%, 0.1 WAR

2021’s Player’s Age (24) Season

Player’s 2021 Rating: 1 star (2 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starting catcher in AAA

Future role: Backup catcher in the majors

ETA: 2021

Johan Quezada is a recently acquired prospect from the Philadelphia Phillies.  He hasn't pitched much in the majors, and he made a considerable leap to get there, but he is a tall pitcher at 6-9, 255 pounds, and he at the least could provide an intimidating presence on the mound.

(Photo: Jasen Vinlove/USA Today Sports)

18. P Johan Quezada - C

2020 (MIA/MLB): 0-0, 9.00 ERA, 3 IP, 12 H9, 3 HR9, 3 BB9, 6 K9, 7.19 FIP, -0.1 WAR

2019 (A+): 7-2, 3.44 ERA, 33 GP, 52.1 IP, 8.5 H9, 0.3 HR9, 4.8 BB9, 8.4 K9

2018 (A): 1-1, 0.93 ERA, 9.2 IP, 6.5 H9, 0 HR9, 1.9 BB9, 9.3 K9

He is a bullpen arm that briefly reached the majors, but has struggled with his control and command.  He is a very tall pitcher, as he is listed at 6-9, 255 pounds.

Projected 2021 season:
2021 (AAA): 45 GP, 54.2 IP, 32 ER, 65 H, 8 HR, 26 BB, 47 K
2021 (MLB):10 GP, 10.1 IP, 8 ER, 13 H, 2 HR, 5 BB, 9 K

Johan Quezada's Projected 2021 season:

2021 (AAA): 7-5, 5.27 ERA, 54.2 IP, 10.7 H9, 1.3 HR9, 4.3 BB9, 7.7 K9, 4.81 FIP
2021 (MLB): 0-0, 6.97 ERA, 10.1 IP, 11.3 H9, 1.7 HR9, 4.4 BB9, 7.8 K9, 5.45 FIP, -0.1 WAR

2021’s Player’s Age (26/27) Season

Quezada’s 2021 Rating: 1 star (2 star potential) 

Expected 2021 role: Bullpen arm in AAA, maybe reach the majors as a September call-up

Future role: Bullpen arm in the majors

ETA: 2021

19. OF Trejyn Fletcher - C

2020 (STL): Did not play.

2019 (RK): .244 AVG, 4 HR, 26 RBI, 7 SB, .291 OBP, .375 SLG, .666 OPS, 43.4 K%

He is an athletic, toolsy outfielder that can run and hit for power, but he did not hit well in rookie ball, and he struck out too much in 2019.

2021’s Player’s Age (19/20) Season

Projected 2021 season:

2021 (Rk): 100 GP, 407 PA, 368 AB, 100 H, 14 HR, 86 RBI, 21 2B, 4 3B, 30 BB, 2 HBP, 7 SF, 18 SB, 2 CS, 147 K
2021 (A): 30 GP, 122 PA, 111 AB, 26 H, 3 HR, 19 RBI, 5 2B, 1 3B, 8 BB, 1 HBP, 2 SF, 5 SB, 1 CS, 54 K

Trejyn Fletcher's Projected 2021 season (Age 19/20 season):
2021 (Rk): .272 AVG, 14 HR, 86 RBI, 18 SB, .324 OBP, .465 SLG, .789 OPS, 36.1 K%
2021 (A): .234 AVG, 3 HR, 19 RBI, 5 SB, .287 OBP, .378 SLG, .665 OPS, 44.3 K%

Fletcher’s 2021 Rating: 0.5 stars (2 stars potential)
Expected 2021 role: Starter in Rookie-ball in the minors
Future role: 3rd or 4th outfielder in the majors
ETA: 2025

20. OF Jhon Torres - C

2020 (STL): Did not play.

2019 (A): .167 AVG, 0 HR, 8 RBI, .240 OBP, .212 SLG, .452 OPS, 38.7 K%

2019 (Rk): .286 AVG, 6 HR, 17 RBI, .391 OBP, .527 SLG, .918 OPS, 27.1 K%

2018 (RK): .321 AVG, 8 HR, 30 RBI, 4 SB, .409 OBP, .525, .933 OPS, 19.9 K%

Jhon Torres is a hitter that scouts like for his ability to hit and for power, and he also has a solid throwing arm.  On the downside, he’s not a great fielder or runner.  Unfortunately, he has not hit well above rookie-ball, and he really struggled in A-ball in 2019.  He’ll need to show more of his hit tools at higher levels, or he could end up getting passed up as a prospect in the Cardinals’ organization.

Torres’ Projected 2021 season (Age: 21 season)

2021 (A): 100 GP, 409 PA, 357 AB, 82 H, 7 HR, 58 RBI, 17 2B, 4 3B, 42 BB, 7 HBP, 3 SF, 4 SB, 5 CS, 116 K

2021 (AA): 20 GP, 82 PA, 74 AB, 14 H, 1 HR, 7 RBI, 2 2B, 0 3B, 6 BB, 1 HBP, 1 SF, 0 SB, 1 CS, 29 K

Torres’ Projected 2021 season (Age: 21 season)

2021 (A): .230 AVG, 7 HR, 58 RBI, 4 SB, .320 OBP, .359 SLG, .679 OPS, 28.4 K%

2021 (AA): .189 AVG, 1 HR, 7 RBI, 0 SB, .256 OBP, .257 SLG, .513 OPS, 35.4 K%

2021’s Player’s Age (21) Season

Torres' 2021 Rating: 0.5 stars (2.0 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starting outfielder in A-ball in the minors

Future role: 3rd or 4th outfielder in the majors

ETA: 2025

Honorable Mention: 1B/3B Malcolm Nunez, RHP Ian Bedell, 1B John Nogowski, RHP Andre Pallante, 1B Luken Baker.

Side notes: 

Elehuris Montero would've been slotted as the 9th best prospect in the Cardinals' organization by my rankings had he not been traded to Colorado, and neither Tony Locey, Mateo Gil, nor Jake Sommers would've made the top 20 list.

4/3/21 Update: 

Delvin Perez was crushing the baseball in the Spring, as he was tearing the covers off the baseball, so now he would be the 12th best prospect in the Cardinals' organization.

12. SS Delvin Perez - C+

2021 (Spring Training): .286 AVG, 0 HR, 2 RBI, 0 SB, .286 OBP, .714 SLG, 1.000 OPS, 0 BB%, 43 K%
2020 (MLB): Did not play.
2019 (A): .269 AVG, 1 HR, 30 RBI, 22 SB, .329 OBP, .325 SLG, .654 OPS, 5.3 BB%, 23.1 K%

Basically, Delvin Perez has really increased his hitting power, and he's always been a solid runner and fielder.  He hit for a decent average in A-ball in 2019, and he's hit well in the spring, but his low walk rates and high strikeout rates are alarming.

Still, his strong spring may now make him a solid prospect, and a good season could catapult him up the prospect list in 2022.

Perez's Projected 2021 season (Age: 22 season)

2021 (AA): 110 GP, 467 PA, 433 AB, 102 H, 14 2B, 8 3B, 9 HR, 77 RBI, 150 K, 24 BB, 8 HBP, (4 SH), 2 SF, 11 SB, 9 CS

2021 (AAA): 15 GP, 50 PA, 47 AB, 13 H, 2 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 2 BB, 16 K, 1 HBP, 0 SF, 2 SB, 0 CS
2021 (MLB): 9 GP, 25 PA, 23 AB, 5 H, 1 2B, 0 3B, 0 HR, 2 RBI, 1 BB, 1 HBP, 8 K, 0 SF, 1 SB, 0 CS

Delvin Perez’s Projected Age (22) Season:

2021 (AA): .236 AVG, 9 HR, 77 RBI, 11 SB, .287 OBP, .367 SLG, .654 OPS, 5.1 BB%. 32.1 K%
2021 (AAA): .277 AVG, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 2 SB, .320 OBP, .426 SLG, .746 OPS, 4.0 BB%, 32 K%
2021 (MLB): .217 AVG, 0 HR, 2 RBI, 1 SB, .280 OBP, .261 SLG, .541 OPS, 4.0 BB%, 32 K%

2021’s Player’s Age (22) Season

Player’s 2021 Rating: 0.5 stars (2.5 stars potential)

Expected 2021 role: Starting shortstop in AA-ball in the minors

Future role: Average starting infielder/above average utility player in the majors

ETA: 2021

Thanks for reading, and this has been fun.

Update on the 2019 St. Louis Cardinals’ Top 30 Prospects in the Organization

 After looking up information on MLB Pipeline, Baseball-Reference, and Fangraphs,  and here’s who I rated as the top 30 best prospects for the Cardinals right now, just before the trade deadline.  It was a tough and thorough process, and after taking a couple of days to compile this, I have completed finishing this list.

In terms of grading players, it’s a combination of analyzing their 2019 season performance, overall ability, and upside.  In evaluating the prospects’ potential, unlike earlier posts, this scale is used in evaluating prospects compared to other prospects, though this is still on a 0.5 to 5 star grading scale.  Without further ado, here are my rankings of prospects in the St. Louis Cardinals' organization as of today.

Nolan Gorman could be primed for a breakout season in 2020.

1.     3B Nolan Gorman – B+

2019 (A+): .259 AVG, 3 HR, 15 RBI, .295 OBP, .431 SLG, .726 OPS

2019 (A): .241 AVG, 10 HR, 41 RBI, .344 OBP, .448 SLG, .792 OPS

Nolan Gorman is still definitely the prospect to watch in this organization, as he is a power hitting third baseman that may have All-Star potential.  Gorman hasn’t exactly dominated either league this year like some thought he would, but he is still holding his own, as he is proving to be a capable hitter in A+ ball at such a young age.  He’s still just 19 years old and was invited to the Futures’ game, and so he could still develop into being a solid MLB starter one day.

2020 Expectations: Age ~20 season: Good A+ ball player
Future career path: Solid everyday starter in the majors, potential All-Star

Current Player Rating: 3.5-star potential

Dylan Carlson has been having a tremendous season in AA, and he and Gorman represented the Cards in this year's Futures Game.

2.     OF Dylan Carlson – B+

2019 (AA): .289 AVG, 17 HR, 53 RBI, 13 SB, .369 OBP, .522 SLG, .892 OPS

Initially expected to spend most of the year at lower levels, Carlson has surpassed all expectations as he’s having a monster season in AA, and has been looking to be the best prospect in the organization this year.  He’s known for being a patient hitter, but he is now hitting with more consistency, and has been producing far beyond anyone’s imagination.  He was in this year’s Futures’ game, and Carlson could end up being a star in the majors sooner than later.

2020 Expectations – Age 21 season: Good AAA starter, September call-up

Future career path: Solid everyday starter in the majors

Current Player Rating: 3.5-star potential

3.     C Andrew Knizner – B

2019 (MLB): .167 AVG, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .219 OBP, .333 SLG, .552 OPS, -0.2 WAR, 100% CS

2019 (AAA): .277 AVG, 7 HR, 24 RBI, .360 OBP, .421 SLG, .780 OPS, 46% CS

Andrew Knizner is getting a chance to prove his worth in the big leagues with Yadi still out, but so far he’s been struggling in the majors.  He’s hit well in the minors, and he’s been able to throw runners out consistently, but hasn’t quite adjusted yet, and his pitch framing has said to not be very good. There’s still a chance that he could come around, as he could be on a similar development path to current Diamondbacks’ catcher, Carson Kelly.

2020 Expectations: Backup catcher in the majors

Future career path: ~Age 25 season: Fringe starter/Backup catcher in the majors

Current Player Rating: 3-star potential

4. P Zack Thompson - B

2019 (A+): 0-0, 9.64 ERA, 4.2 IP, 15.4 H9, 0.0 HR9, 3.9 BB9, 11.6 K9

2019 (Rk): 0-0, 0.00 ERA, 2 IP, 13.5 H9, 0.0 HR9, 0.0 BB9, 18 K9

2019 (NCAA): 6-1, 2.40 ERA, 90 IP, 5.9 H9, 0.3 HR9, 3.4 BB9, 13.0 K9

Zack Thompson is a left-handed pitcher that throws hard and can strike numerous batters out, but he will need to work on his control and command to succeed at higher levels.  He boasts having a solid four-pitch mix in having a plus-fastball, slider, and curveball in addition to having a changeup, but improving his command could be the key for him to reach his full potential as a prospect for the majors.

2020 Expectations – Age 22 season: A+ starter, maybe even reach AA

Future career path: Back-end rotation starter in the majors, at best a middle of the rotation pitcher

Current Player Rating: 3 star potential

Tommy Edman has been playing very well for the St. Louis Cardinals this season.

5. 3B/2B Tommy Edman – B-

2019 (MLB): .255 AVG, 4 HR, 14 RBI, 4 SB, .295 OBP, .443 SLG, .738 OPS, 0.4 WAR

2019 (AAA): .305 AVG, 7 HR, 29 RBI, 9 SB, .356 OBP, .513 SLG, .869 OPS

Edman has been a pleasant surprise on this year’s St. Louis Cardinals’ team, as has shown solid pop in his bat and a solid glove, and he has hit fairly well in the majors.  It’s uncertain if he’ll get any rookie of the year votes, but his strong play in the big leagues may have made people forget that former All-Star Matt Carpenter is still on his team.  While he will need to be more selective in his approach at the plate, definitely Edman is a vastly underrated prospect that has certainly helped the Cards this season.

2020 Expectations – Age ~25 season: Spot-starter in the majors

Future career path: Spot-starter in the majors

Current Player Rating: 2.5-star potential

           

6. C Ivan Herrera – B-

2019 (A): .286 AVG, 8 HR, 42 RBI, .381 OBP, .423 SLG, .805 OPS, 30% CS

He is a 19-year old catcher that has been hitting very well in A-ball.  Herrera has been a rising up-and-comer that has shown off prodigious hitting, and he could develop into a solid starting catcher if he is able to reach his full potential as a prospect for the big leagues.

2020 Expectations – Age ~20 season: A+ starter

Future career path: Decent starter/backup catcher in the majors

Current Player Rating: 2.5-star potential

7.     3B/1B Elehuris Montero – B-

2019 (AA): .219 AVG, 4 HR, 13 RBI, .265 OBP, .417 SLG, .681 OPS

After having a terrific season in A-ball last year as a 19-year old, Montero has cooled off, but he’s shown flashes of his potential in AA.  While he’s struggled to hit the ball consistently, he has shown that he can be a power hitter at higher levels.  If he can be a more consistent hitter, that could go a long way for him in the future.

2020 Expectations – Age 21 season: AA starter

Future career path: Decent starter/backup corner infielder in the majors

Current Player Rating: 2.5-star potential

8. P Angel Rondon – B-

2019 (AA): 4-3, 2.99 ERA, 75.1 IP, 7.9 H9, 0.7 HR9, 3.5 BB9, 9.1 K9

2019 (A+): 5-1, 2.20 ERA, 45 IP, 5.2 H9, 0.6 HR9, 3.4 BB9, 9.4 K9

Angel Rondon has had a solid season this year, as he boasts having a plus-fastball and a slider, as well as a decent changeup pitch.  He consistently throws in the low 90s, but can throw upwards of the mid-90s.  He’ll still need to work on his control, but there’s a lot to like about Rondon, as he could be one of the Cardinals’ best pitching prospects in the organization.

2020 Expectations – Age  22 season: AAA starter and September call-up

Future career path: Multi-inning reliever in the majors, or back-end starter in the big leagues

Current Player Rating: 2.5 star potential

 

Lane Thomas is a solid hitter that could be a reliable contributor in the Majors.

9. OF Lane Thomas – B-

2019 (AAA): .263 AVG, 7 HR, 40 RBI, 11 SB, .345 OBP, .425 SLG, .769 OPS

2019 (MLB): .308 AVG, 1 HR, 4 RBI, .357 OBP, .538 SLG, .896 OPS, 0.2 WAR

He hasn’t spent a whole lot of time up in the majors, but he hit well when he was up here.  He’s had a fairly good season in AAA, and Lane Thomas is a player who just knows how to hit the baseball.

2020 Expectations – Age ~24 season: Very good AAA starter/backup outfielder in the majors

Future career path: 3^rd or 4^th outfielder, decent starter/backup outfielder in the majors
Current Player Rating: 2.5 star potential

Randy Arozarena's sterling .367 batting average in AAA for Memphis could land him a call-up to the big leagues in September this year.

10. OF Randy Arozarena – B-

2019 (AAA): .367 AVG, 6 HR, 25 RBI, 4 SB, .439 OBP, .576 SLG, 1.015 OPS

2019 (AA): .309 AVG, 3 HR, 15 RBI, 8 SB, .422 OBP, .515 SLG, .938 OPS

It was surprising that Arozarena started the year off in AA, given that he had hit so well there last year.  But he eventually got a promotion to AAA, where he should have been playing all season.  He’s been hitting very well in AAA so far, and if he stays healthy, there will be a good chance that he will get called up to the majors in September.  Hopefully, he can keep up the hot hitting in the big leagues, as he has the potential to develop into an everyday starter in the majors if things break his way.

2020 Expectations – Age 25 season: Bench player in the majors

Future career path: 3^rd or 4^th outfielder, decent starter/backup outfielder in the majors

Current Player Rating: 2.5-star potential

11. P Junior Fernandez – B-

2019 (AAA): 1-0, 0.59 ERA, 15.1 IP, 4.1 H9, 0.0 HR9, 2.9 BB9, 10.6 K9

2019 (AA): 1-1, 1.55 ERA, 29 IP, 5.6 IP, 0.0 HR9, 3.4 BB9, 13.0 K9

Junior Fernandez has been pitching very well out of the bullpen in both AA and AAA.  He struggled a bit with his location in A+ ball, but he has adjusted very well to hitters at higher levels.  There is a good likelihood that he could get called up to the majors, and he could help the big league squad in September.

2020 Expectations – Age 23 season: Bullpen arm in the majors
Future career path: Good bullpen arm in the majors
Current Player Rating: 2.5-star potential

12. P Johan Oviedo – B-

2019 (AA): 5-4, 5.27 ERA, 83.2 IP, 9.6 H9, 1.0 HR9, 4.6 BB9, 9.7 K9
2019 (A+): 5-0, 1.60 ERA, 33.2 IP, 7.8 H9, 0.3 HR9, 3.2 BB9, 9.4 K9

Oviedo pitched very well in A+ ball, and he was able to receive a promotion to AA.  He’s struggled with his command in AA ball, but it’s encouraging that he’s still striking batters out at a high rate.  He’ll need to improve his control, but he has three solid pitch offerings, and he could develop into a solid bullpen pitcher in the majors over time.

2020 Expectations – Age 22 season: AA starter, maybe get called up to AAA

Future career path: Multi-inning bullpen arm in the majors, or back-end starter

Current Player Rating: 2.5-star potential

Edmundo Sosa has received a call-up to the big leagues this year, and he could be back with the Cards in September.

 13. SS/2B/3B Edmundo Sosa – B-

2019 (AAA): .257 AVG, 10 HR, 37 RBI, 2 SB, .306 OBP, .421 SLG, .727 OPS

2019 (MLB): .333 AVG, 0 HR, 0 RBI, .333 OBP, .333 SLG, .667 OPS, 0.0 WAR

Edmundo Sosa is a toolsy middle infielder that has some pop in his bat, and he shows promise as a player for the majors.  He’ll need to be a more patient hitter, but his ability to field combined with his hitting potential could make him a solid role player in the big leagues.

2020 Expectations – Age 24 season: AAA starter/backup infielder in the majors
Future career path: Decent starter/backup infielder in the majors
Current Player Rating: 2.5-star potential

14. P Andre Pallante – B-

2019 (A-): 1-0, 1.80 ERA, 20 IP, 5.9 H9, 0.9 HR9, 2.7 BB9, 8.6 K9

A smart pitcher that locates his pitches well and has good command, he boasts having a solid four pitch mix in his arsenal.  Pallante has a plus-fastball and slider, and he can throw in the high-90s on occasion, and he also has a curveball and a changeup.  It’s early to project how good he could be, but there’s a chance he could develop into a Major League starter in the future if he continues to pitch well.

2020 Expectations – Age  21 season: A-ball starter, then get promoted to A+ ball

Future career path: Multi-inning reliever in the majors, or back-end starter

Current Player Rating: 2.5 star potential

15. OF Jhon Torres – B-

2019 (A): .167 AVG, 0 HR, 8 RBI, .240 OBP, .212 SLG, .452 OPS

2019 (Rk): .274 AVG, 4 HR, 11 RBI, .392 OBP, .548 SLG, .940 OPS

Jhon Torres has shown that he can hit in rookie ball, and he has shown some solid tools at that level, but has yet to show that he can hit at higher levels.  His struggles at Peoria in A-ball seem quite familiar, as another prospect struggled there at that age: Magneuris Sierra.  Torres is said to have more pop in his bat, but he will need to be able to adjust when he gets promoted.  He’s so far away from the majors right now, but if he can adjust, he could end up being a versatile role player in the majors.

2020 Expectations – Age 20 season: A-ball starter
Future career path: Backup outfielder in the majors
Current Player Rating: 2.5-star potential

16. C Julio Rodriguez – C+

2019 (A+): .268 AVG, 7 HR, 31 RBI, .314 OBP, .402 SLG, .717 OPS, 29% CS

He is a defensive minded catcher that fields well and has been known for throwing runners out, though he’s only thrown out 29% of base-stealers so far this year.  Rodriguez has some pop in his bat, but he will need to be a more patient hitter.  If things pan out for him, he could end up being a serviceable role player in the majors.

2020 Expectations – Age ~23 season: AA starter

Future career path: Backup catcher in the majors

Current Player Rating: 2 star potential

17. P Jake Woodford – C+

2019 (AAA): 6-6, 4.11 ERA, 116 IP, 7.4 H9, 1.2 HR9, 4.8 BB9, 7.6 K9

He’s been steady as a solid, middle of the rotation starter in AAA at Memphis.  Woodford has not been spectacular, but he’s provided them with quality innings, and has shown an improved ability to strike hitters out.  He hasn’t allowed many hits, but has struggled with his command at times.  Still, the fact that he has been holding his own as a starter at the level suggests that he could end up in the majors sooner than later, and he could be a potential September call-up this year.

2020 Expectations – Age 23 season: AAA starter/Bullpen arm in the majors

Future career path: Spot-starter/multi-inning bullpen arm in the majors
Current Player Rating: 2-star potential

18. P Tommy Parsons – C+

2019 (A+): 3-2, 2.13 ERA, 42.1 IP, 8.7 H9, 0.2 HR9, 1.5 BB9, 8.3 K9

2019 (A): 4-0, 0.26 ERA, 35 IP, 3.6 H9, 0.3 HR9, 1.3 BB9, 6.7 K9

A tall righty, he is a starting pitcher that has great control of his pitches, and he has a low 90s fastball as well as a decent curveball pitch.  He could project well into a back-end rotation starter or as a reliever in the majors.

2020 Expectations – Age 24 season: AAA starter

Future career path: Multi-inning reliever in the majors

Current Player Rating: 2 star potential

19. P Ryan Helsley – C+

2019 (AAA): 2-3, 4.98 ERA, 34.1 IP, 7.6 H9, 0.8 HR9, 5.2 BB9, 9.7 K9

2019 (MLB): 0-0, 2.92 ERA< 12.1 IP, 4.4 H9, 1.5 HR9, 4.4 BB9, 9.5 K9, 0.0 WAR

Ryan Helsley throws very hard, and he’s been doing a good job of striking hitters out and missing bats, but he has struggled with his command.  But he’s pitched fairly well in the majors, and he could be a welcome addition to the big league squad in September.

2020 Expectations – Age 25 season: AAA spot-starter

Future career path: Bullpen arm in the majors
Current Player Rating: 2-star potential

20. P Genesis Cabrera – C+

2019 (AAA): 3-4, 6.42 ERA, 61,2 IP, 10.5 H/9, 2.0 HR/9, 4.1 BB/9 8.6 K/9

2019 (MLB): 0-2, 6.17 ERA, 11.2 IP, 11.6 H/9, 1.5 HR/9, 5.4 BB/9, 7.7 K/9, -0.1 WAR

Genesis Cabrera surprisingly received a call-up in the middle of the season, but he hasn’t played too well since.  He’s currently struggling as a starter in AAA, and there’s a chance he may have to be demoted to AA to find his groove again. 

2020 Expectations – Age 23 season: AAA spot-starter

Future career path: Bullpen arm in the majors

Current Player Rating: 2-star potential

21. 3B Malcom Nunez – C+

2019 (A): .183 AVG, 0 HR, 5 RBI, .247 OBP, .197 SLG, .444 OPS

2019 (Rk): .318 AVG, 1 HR, 5 RBI, .333 OBP, .477 SLG, .811 OPS

A masher who hit extremely well in FRk-ball last year, he has been hitting fairly well in Rookie ball, but has looked to be overmatched in A-ball.  He’ll still need to learn the finer points of hitting to be able to move up higher levels, but he could be a prospect to watch in the future.  But right now, he’s so far away from being able to reach the majors for the time being.

2020 Expectations – Age 19 season: A-ball starter

Future career path: Backup in the majors

Current Player Rating: 2 star potential

22. OF Trejyn Fletcher – C+

2019 (Rk): .250 AVG, 3 HR, 19 RBI, 4 SB, .303 OBP, .409 SLG, .712 OPS

He’s a toolsy outfielder that will need to learn better plate discipline to ascend higher levels to reach his full potential as a prospect for the big leagues.

2020 Expectations – Age 19 season: Rookie-ball starter, then get called up to A-ball

Future career path:  Backup outfielder in the majors

Current Player Rating: 2 star potential

23. P Tony Locey – C+

2019 (A): 1-1, 2.25 ERA, 8 IP, 3.4 H9, 0 HR9, 10.1 BB9, 20.3 K9

2019 (Rk): 0-0 0.00 ERA, 2IP, 4.5 H9, 0 HR9, 9 BB9, 13.5 K9

He projects to be a reliever that has a solid fastball and a plus slider, and he throws very hard as he has the potential to hit triple digits on the radar gun, but he really needs to improve his ability to locate pitches.

2020 Expectations ~ Age  21 season: A-ball reliever

Future career path: Bullpen pitcher in the majors

Current Player Rating: 2 star potential

24. P Steven Gingery – C+

2019:  N/A

He’s a mystery man who has not pitched in the minors yet.  Scouts seem to love his stuff, especially his changeup and ability to locate his pitches.  He also throws left-handed and tends to throw in the low 90s.

2020 Expectations – Age 22 season: ?

Future career path: Bullpen arm in the majors

Current Player Rating: 2.0-star potential

25. INF Ramon Urias - C

2019 (AAA): .232 AVG, 3 HR, 27 RBI, 3 SB, .363 OBP, .348 SLG, .711 OPS

He has shown great patience at the plate, but has struggled to hit in AAA this year, and hasn’t shown much physical tools at this level.  He does project to be a capable infielder that can play multiple positions, which helps his case.

2020 Expectations – Age  26 season: AAA starter, maybe get called up in September

Future career path: Fringe backup infielder in the majors

Current Player Rating: 1.5 star potential

26. 2B Max Schrock - C

2019 (AAA): .269 AVG, 1 HR, 20 RBI, 10 SB, .363 OBP, .371 SLG, .735 OPS

Still not yet on the 40-man roster, Schrock is a patient hitter that can draw a lot of walks, and he also can steal some bases, but questions about his hitting ability combined with a lack of pop in his bat this year could keep him in AAA this year.  Still, he may be good enough to make the majors if he can get his chance to be called up.

2020 Expectations – Age  25 season: AAA starter

Future career path: Career minor leaguer, or fringe backup in the majors

Current Player Rating: 1.5 star potential

27. OF Conner Capel - C

2019 (AAA): .433 AVG, 2 HR, 7 RBI, .452 OBP, .800 SLG, 1.252 OPS

2019 (AA): .230 AVG, 8 HR, 33 RBI, 6 SB, .290 OBP, .385 SLG, .675 OPS

So far, the results have been mixed for Capel this season.  He’s played very well in limited duty in AAA, but has struggled to get hits in AA.  He needs to play like how he’s been doing in AAA to be able to reach and maximize his full potential as a player in this sport.

2020 Expectations – Age 23 season: Good AA starter or AAA platoon player

Future career path: Fringe backup outfielder in the majors

2020 Player Rating: 1.5 star potential

28. P Alvaro Seijas - C

2019 (A+): 1-1, 3.86 ERA, 25.2 IP, 10.9 H9, 0.7 HR9, 3.5 BB9, 9.1 K9

2019 (A): 4-5, 2.93 ERA, 80 IP, 8.2 H9, 0.7 HR9, 3.2 BB9, 8.0 K9

Seijas pitched very well in A-ball, and while he needs to improve his command, he has shown that he can hold his own in A+ ball.   If he ends up in the majors, most likely he might end up in the bullpen.

2020 Expectations – Age  21 season: A+ starter, then get called up to AA

Future career path: Career minor leaguer, or fringe backup in the majors

Current Player Rating: 1.5 star potential

29. OF Justin Williams - C

2019 (AAA): .500 AVG, 2 HR, 5 RBI, .556 OBP, 1.250 SLG, 1.806 OPS
2019 (AA): .193 AVG, 1 HR, 3 RBI, 1 SB, .246 OBP, .263 SLG, .509 OPS

He injured his hand, which caused him to miss a lot of playing time to start the season, and when healthy, he’s been inconsistent at best.  He’s played well sparingly in AAA, but he’s struggled mightiliy in AA.  For a player that was one of the key pieces of a trade that involved Tommy Pham, Williams hasn’t played like the phenom he was hyped up to be.  If Williams can consistently hit well and find his way back to the majors, that would be really good for him.

2020 Expectations – Age 24 season: AAA starter, maybe get called up in September

Future career path: Fringe backup outfielder in the majors

Current Player Rating: 1.5 star potential

30. P Griffin Roberts - C

2019 (A+): 0-6, 5.95 ERA, 42.1 IP, 10.6 H9, 0.0 HR9, 4.5 BB9, 4.7 K9

After having a very good collegiate career and a promising 2018 season, Griffin Roberts was suspended to start the season, and has since struggled in A+ ball.  He’s struggling with his location and has not been striking hitters out nearly at the rate that was anticipated of him.  Right now, he needs to get his game back on track to be a serious prospect again.

2020 Expectations – Age ~24 season: A+ spot-starter/AA bullpen arm

Future career path: Career minor leaguer or fringe bullpen arm in the majors

Current Player Rating: 1.5 star potential

Honorable Mention: P Seth Elledge, OF Jose Adolis Garcia, P Austin Warner, 3B Rangel Ravelo, 1B Luken Baker

No Longer Rookies:

Dakota Hudson has earned 10 wins as a major league starter for the Cardinals, and he has had a fairly solid rookie season in the majors this year.

P Dakota Hudson

2019 (MLB): 10-4, 3.61 ERA, 109.2 IP, 9.4 H9, 1.3 HR9, 4.1 BB9, 6.6 K9, 0.4 WAR

Dakota Hudson has filled in quite nicely as a starter in the majors.  He’s a smart pitcher that knows how to get outs.  While he has struggled with his command at times, he’s shown that he can fill a role as a backend starter in the big leagues.

2020 Expectations ~ Age 25 season: Back-end starter in the majors

Future career path: Back-end starter in the majors
Current Player Rating: 2.0 stars (3 star potential)

P Giovanny Gallegos

2019 (MLB): 2-1, 2.23 ERA, 48.1 IP, 5.2 H9, 0.9 HR, 1.5 BB9, 13.0 K9, 1.3 WAR

He has pitched really well, and he has been a solid addition to the Cardinals’ bullpen this year.

2020 Expectations ~ Age 28 season: Good bullpen pitcher in the majors

Future career path: Good bullpen pitcher in the majors
Current Player Rating: 2.5 stars

P Alex Reyes

2019 (AAA): 1-3, 7.39 ERA, 28 IP, 8.7 IP, 1.6 HR9, 7.7 BB9, 12.2 K9
2019 (MLB): 0-1, 15.00 ERA, 3.0 IP, 6.0 H9, 3.0 HR9, 18.0 BB9, 3.0 K9, -0.3 WAR

2019 (A+): 0-1, 1.93 ERA, 9.1 IP, 8.7 H9, 0 HR9, 2.9 BB9, 10.6 K9

Once a prized pitching prospect, Reyes has battled injuries and a lengthy suspension in a previous year that have hindered his development, and he’s also struggling with his command and injuries this season.  Time’s running out on whether or not if he can reach his full potential, and now it’s looking more like he may be closer to a mid-tier prospect for the majors rather than an elite one all along.

2020 Expectations ~ Age 25 season: AAA starter, or fringe reliever in the majors

Future career path: Multi-inning reliever in the majors
Current Player Rating: 1.5 stars (2.5 star potential)

P Daniel Ponce de Leon

2019 (MLB): 1-1, 3.76 ERA, 40.2 IP, 6.4 H9, 1.1 HR9, 4.6 BB9, 9.7 K9, 0.5 WAR

Ponce de Leon still will need to work on his control, but he’s been solid as a versatile pitcher that can start or come out of the bullpen for the Cards in the majors.

2020 Expectations ~ Age 28 season: Spot starter/Bullpen pitcher in the majors

Future career path: Spot starter/Bullpen pitcher in the majors
Current Player Rating: 2.0 stars

           

No longer in the organization:

3B Patrick Wisdom

2019 (AAA): .220 AVG, 18 HR, 44 RBI, 5 SB, .362 OBP, .520 SLG, .882 OPS

2019 (MLB): .154 AVG, 0 HR, 1 RBI, .185 OBP, .192 SLG, .377 OPS, -0.3 WAR

- In the Texas Rangers’ organization

2020 Expectations – Age  25 season: AAA starter

Future career path: Career minor leaguer, or fringe backup in the majors

Current Player Rating: 1 star (1.5-star potential)

P Connor Greene

2019 (AA): 3-9, 5.44 ERA, 9.4 H9, 1.0 HR9, 3.5 BB9, 7.7 K9

-In the Kansas City Royals’ organization

2020 Expectations – Age  25 season: AA starter/AAA bullpen

Future career path: Career minor leaguer, or fringe reliever in the majors

Current Player Rating: 1.5 star potential

Just in case if you were wondering, I listed the Fangraphs WAR as the metric listed for prospects that have played in the majors this year.  Anyways, that is the list for now, and thanks for reading.