Down on the Farm Report: Nick Weglarz

Last week it was announced that two Indians Minor Leaguers will represent the World Team in the 11th annual All-Star futures game on All-Star weekend on July 12 at Busch Stadium. The two players are catcher Carlos Santana who is the Indians number one rated prospect according to Baseball America and outfielder Nick Weglarz who was rated by Baseball America as the number 3 Indians prospect leading into the season. Both of which are teammates on the Indians Double A Akron Aeros squad. If you watched any of the World Baseball Classic this year you might remember the 21 year old Weglarz as he started in left field for team Canada. Nick also played for the Canadian team in the 2009 Summer Olympics in China as well.

The Indians selected Weglarz in the 3rd round of the 2005 Draft out of high school (Ontario, Canada). In his pro debut in 2005 at rookie level Burlington, at 17 years of age Weglarz held up well and hit .231 with 2 HR and 13 RBI in 141 at bats. In 2006, he played only one game for the rookie level Gulf Coast League (GCL) Indians as he was sidelined for the entire season with a broken hand. Weglarz is one of only a handful of players under 20 to have an OPS in the South Atlantic League of .892 or higher in the last 15 years. Here is what several sites have said about the young up and comer:

Indians Prospect Insider "Weglarz is a developed hitter with above-average hand-eye coordination, and he loves low pitches so he can extend through it either away or down and in. Weglarz has some flaws in his swing that will need to be tinkered along the way, but his long arms and good bat speed generate tremendous power."

Scoutingbook.com said he is, "A smart, savvy hitter with strong arms and developing power, Weglarz uses very fast hands to work the bat through the zone quickly, with line-drive power to all fields. His swing lacks the loft of a true power-hitter, though that may come soon as his large frame continues to fill out: In 2007 he produced 24 long balls in 127 games as a 19 year old in A ball. He took a step back when bumped up to high-A in 2008, but he's still a very young player with a lot to learn, so some growing pains are expected. A first-baseman in high school, the Indians have been using him in left field, though that experiment may soon end: his glove and arm are not better than average. While he continues to work on his power swing, his advanced plate discipline looks puts him firmly in the Future Youkilis Junior Achievers camp for now."

This year Weglarz started out the season playing for the Double A Akron Aeros as he spent all of 2008 in Single A Kingston. Although he started out slow by hitting below .100 in the month of April his numbers have really come around in the last two months as he has been on fire. Since May 1st he is batting over .320 for the Aeros. As of today he is hitting .261 and is leading the team in RBI's with 55. His OPS is .900. Furthermore, he was selected as the Eastern League Player of the week back on May 18th and then again this past week ending June 26th. Weglarz was at his best in the three-game series against Trenton last week. Weglarz hit .700 (7-10) in the series, homered in all three games, drove in eight runs, and collected his first four-hit game of the season Wednesday before becoming just the 12th player in franchise history to draw four walks in a game Thursday.

Since Weglarz is only 21 you can only expect more great things out of him. With the Tribe basically being all but out of it in 2009 it would be nice to see them bring up two other prospects from Triple A Columbus in Michael Brantley and Matt LaPorta so they can get some big league experience. The Clippers have been playing Brantley a lot more in left field so hopefully this is a sign that he will come up and get some experience as I would rather watch him than Ben Francisco. Benny boy is just terrible and I am tired of watching him as he is a minor leaguer at best. Bruce Drennen talked about him last night on All Bets Are Off saying that Francisco might be a nice kid but he has to go. I will be amazed if he is on a big league club next year. With this in mind, if either LaPorta or Brantley get called up you can probably expect that Nick Weglarz will be on the first bus to Columbus to play for the Clippers.

Down on the Farm Report: Hector Rondon

With the 2009 Cleveland Indians season quickly trickling down the drain, it is time once again to look to the future, because the future is all Tribe fans' got. The current starting rotation at the big league level is pretty weak, so don't be surprised to see Top Prospect Hector Rondon sometime later this summer donning an Indians uniform. Rondon was selected last season to the Futures All Star game at the tender age of 20 and hurled three shutout innings in big league camp this past spring training. The young Venezualan is just 21 years old and has had success at each level in the minors. Rondo sports a plus fastball that hovers in the 92-94 MPH range that can top out at 97. He primarily likes to throw the hard stuff, but also mixes in an improving slider with a curveball and changeup that he is trying to improve upon. Hector recently had some arm issues, but they have seemed to be nothing major.

Right-handed Hector Rondon has successfully returned from right bicep tendinitis, returning to action this past Sunday to go four shutout innings. When Rondon left his start early about two weeks ago there was a lot of concern up and down the Indians' organization for their prized right-hander, but thankfully the injury was not serious and he essentially missed one start and did not even have to go on the disabled list. As a precautionary measure, his pitch count was limited on Sunday, which is why he only went four innings. Indiansprospectinsider.com

That must have been a big sigh of relief to the organization as there really is a lack of top quality arms anywhere close to making the majors by 2010. Rondon is a lanky 6'3, 160 lbs, so he has plenty of room to fill out his slim frame. He is currently 6-4 with a 2.85 ERA in 60 1/3 innings. Those stats may be a bit inflated due to his brief stint in the bullpen. With the Big League Tribe's bullpen in shambles back in May (and even worse now), the Indians brass looked to Rondon as a potential impact arm to help this season. The experiment did not work out well. Here is more from indiansprospectinsider.com from Ross Atkins about why Hector was returned to starting duty...

On Hector Rondon: "When we considered him as a bullpen option and talked about who the best arms are in the system who could help the major league team now, he was the clear choice. I think what we did was exhaust the process in thinking about is this best for the organization, and while we were considering that he was a viable candidate and a more immediate candidate having thrown out of a bullpen in a professional setting. It was two outings, and he pitched well and threw well and was better than his lined indicated. As we took time to further consider that while moving him and pitching him in the bullpen we also considered what it meant long term for him and what it meant long term for our organization and ultimately decided that Hector can help us in either role, be it starting or in relief as he continues to [work out of the starting rotation]. I think we are looking at it now from a more global perspective. By no means is he not a bullpen option. I think what he is now is just an option as a major league pitcher. Hector will continue his development, and we could see him at some point this year or next year, it is difficult to say. He has handled it exceptionally well, which was one of the reasons that we decided to try it because we knew he would be able to handle it and it wouldn't affect him negatively."

Or they realized that this guy may need to be in the rotation by season's end. Rondon apparently did not do too well warming up so quickly out in the pen, due to his regimen having to change from transforming into a reliever from his regular starting duties. His velocity was not as good and his control was erratic. One of the outings he came in with runners on, forcing the Aero to pitch immediately from the stretch. The Tribe went ahead and fast-tracked last years 6th round pick Zach Putnam to the bullpen (which has had mixed results) and promptly returned Rondon to beginning games from the mound.

His 61 strikeouts over 60 1/3 innings stands out, as well as him only walking 13 batters. Currently on a strict pitch count, Rondon threw 4 plus shutout innings Sunday to lead Akron to another win. With clearly being the ace of the staff, I imagine that this 21 year old phenom will be promoted to Columbus as soon as the Indians management feels he is ready to be extended to his maximum throwing potential. If he mows'em down in Clipperville, look for Hector Rondon to be added to the rotation to see if he is a viable option for 2010.

Down on the Farm Report: Jordan Brown

With the 2009 Major League draft going on this week, there is always a lot of potential great catches for Major League ball clubs. With this in mind, I'd like to think back in 2005 the Cleveland Indians made a great catch when they selected Jordan Brown in the First Year Player Draft out of the University of Arizona in the fourth round (no. 124 overall). Speaking of catches check out the picture above (clockwise from top left Chris Gimenez, Trevor Crowe, Jordan Brown, Jon Meloan) Since being in the Indians organization, Jordan Brown, the 6'0 foot 205 lb first baseman has put up some pretty good numbers. The 25 year old won back-to-back MVP awards in his first two full seasons in the minors, taking the Carolina League honors in 2006 and the Eastern League trophy in 2007. In 2006 he hit .290 with an OPS of .831 at Single A Kinston and in 2007 he really broke out hitting .333 with an OPS of .906 in Akron. Brown spent all of 2008 in Triple A Buffalo putting up average numbers hitting .281 in 109 games. Furthermore he spent spent a little time last year on the Disabled list with a left knee injury. With this in mind, the presumed "catch" went unpicked in the Rule 5 draft after a rough 2008, but he's back looking like a fair first-base prospect again so far this year.



After a little over two months into the season Jordan seems to be one of the key factors that is holding this Columbus team together. The Clips have been up and down all year as they are 30-29 and a 1/2 game back in the IL West Division. The one thing that has not been down is Brown's averages. As of Monday he is 8th in the entire International League in batting .311 (59 x 190). He was also named IL Player of the week for the week of 5/18 - 5/24 going 14 x 27 batting .519 w/ 3 HRs, 7 RBI's, and a Slugging Percentage of 1.000. Furthermore, his batting average has not dropped below .300 since April 14. As mentioned earlier Brown has been a key player on this years Clippers squad; he has played in 53 of the 58 games so far this year. The Clippers roster has Brown listed as a first baseman, however he can also play outfield. In the past 5 years he has appeared at first base 207 times and in the outfield 138. He can play both corners of the outfield as he has played 16 games in right and 13 games in left this year. His fielding percentage has been a perfect 1.000 at both first base and left field this year and is .967 in right field. His total fielding percentage average over his 5 year pro career is .989.

Here is a breakdown of some of his stats this year:

AVG .311
SLG .521
OPS .871
vs. lefty's .326
vs. righty's .306
Home games .288
Away games .327
Day games .333
Night games .298
Runners on .324
Runners in Scoring Position .311

Looking at last years (2008) Baseball America's Top 10 Cleveland Indians Prospects versus this years (2009) one will notice that while Brown was on last years list he was dropped from this years list. Although he has started the year off with a bang I guess we will find out if indeed Jordan Brown is the "catch" we thought he was.

Down on the Farm Report: Lonnie Chisenhall

Most of the Cleveland Indians top prospects currently are playing ball in Ohio for minor league teams(LaPorta,Brantley,Rondon, Santana, etc.), or the big league club (Huff, Valbuena, Sipp), but there is a future star currently ripping up the Carolina League down in Single A Kinston that will soon be playing a lot closer to Progressive Field. With the organization still not completely settled on an infield for the future, top prospect Lonnie Chisenhall may be just be the fixture Cleveland has been looking for.

2008 First Round Selection helped the K-Tribe win yesterday with a two run homerun as Kinston defeated Wilmington 3-2. It was Chisenhall's team leading ninth home run of the season. He now leads the Carolina League with 42 RBI and is tied for second in home runs. Lonnie has posted .305 AVG .384 OBP .519 SLG .903 OPS in 48 games this season, pretty impressive stats for a 20 year old in his first full season in pro ball. Chisenhall's defensive stats stand out, but not really in a good way.

The former Gamecock made a position change over the offseason, moving from shortstop to second base. This season he has already committed 16 errors in 41 games over at the hot corner. Chisenhall was able to work all last season and spring training with former Indian and current Rookie ball Manager of the Mahoning Valley Scrappers Travis Fryman, who had to make the very same transition during his time with the Detroit Tigers. Fryman made the move flawlessly, and Lonnie seemed to take in everything his coach had to teach him. Usually your best athlete on a baseball team is put at shortstop, so I don't envision it being a problem for Chisenhall. With the Indians Farm system looking increasingly week at 2B, SS, and 3B at the higher levels, the team has a lot riding on this guy.

The Pitt Community College product has been named Carolina League Player of the Week twice already this season and has hit 3 grand slams already this season. He has a line drive swing that looks quite pure from the left side. Chisenhall probably needs to develop a bit better plate discipline by drawing more walks to help him move on up to Akron. I wouldn't be surprised to see him possibly moved to 2nd base sometime in his minor league career if continues to struggle at third base. He has the arm for any position in the infield, so it will be interesting to see where he projects as a Major Leaguer. As he gets older and stronger, I imagine his power numbers will increase even more.

I would consider Lonnie Chisenhall as one of the top 10 prospects in the Indians organization today. He is progressing rapidly through the system with a possible AA appearance in 2009 at the age of only 20. With current Indians' contracts up in a few years, (Martinez, Peralta), the team will be in desperate need of an impact bat. Chisenhall just maybe that guy.

Down on the Farm Report: Carlos Santana

When Casey Blake was traded to the Dodgers last July, most fans had no idea who the prospects were the Indians received for their former grinder. John Meloan was one half of the deal, a hard throwing bullpen arm. The other has turned into the by most prospect publications the number 1 prospect in the organization; catcher Carlos Santana. Most fans have heard of Santana by now, as he got to play in a few games with the Tribe in Spring Training and has been heavily talked about and mentioned. Here is what some in baseball have to say about the "smooth" switch hitter...

Comment from Ross Atkins, Indians director of player development: "Carlos is extremely gifted offensively. He has a lot of bat speed and he's disciplined. Defensively, he has above average skills when it comes to catching and throwing. He still needs to refine his receiving skills, his game calling ability and his ability to lead a pitching staff."

John Sickles of Minorleagueball.com: "...he's continued to produce power and terrific strike zone judgment while transitioning to Double-A.. I'm not sure he gets as much attention as he deserves: he's an excellent prospect, and will battle Buster Posey for "best catching prospect" plaudits once Matt Wieters graduates to the majors."

Mark Shapiro on catcher Carlos Santana's throwing ability: "He's as gifted throwing as any guy I've ever seen outside of Pudge [Ivan Rodriguez] early in his career."

Pretty high praise for the young 23 year old Dominican. He seems to be developing into a pretty good receiver, while showing a cannon for an arm. Santana's leadership behind the dish has help lead to success for Akron as through May 12th the team had posted a combined 2.81 ERA, with the starting staff of Hector Rondon (29 IP, 1.24 ERA), Frank Herrmann (30 1/3 IP, 2.97 ERA) Chuck Lofgren (27 IP, 1.33 ERA) and Jeanmar Gomez (12 IP, 0.75 ERA) throwing lights out.

But what will eventually get him to Cleveland will be his bat, and he has been raking down in Akron again this season hitting .273 with a .416 OBP, .534 SLG and .950 OPS. Those are great numbers as he has demonstrated his keen eye of the strike zone while being pitched around in the middle of the Aero lineup (22 Walks to 15 K's). His 6 Home Runs and 22 RBI are amongst the leaders in the Eastern League as well. It will be interesting to see when young Carlos breaks in with the big league club, with Victor Martinez's 2011 free agent year looming. Santana's swing switch hitting swing is reminiscent of V-Marts', while sporting his #41 jersey behind the dish at Canal Park. Hopefully this Tribe phenom, he will have to choose a different numeral when he gets the call up to Cleveland while his mentor mans the bag over at first.

Note: from Stephanie Storm of the Akron Beacon Journal May 14th: In the fifth, the Aeros’ Carlos Santana left with right forearm tightness. Aeros manager Mike Sarbaugh said after the game removing Santana was precautionary and that he’s day-to-day for now.

Hopefully he will be fine, but the way 2009 has went so far, you never know.

Down on the Farm Report: Zach Putnam

With all of the transactions concerning the bullpen being made at the Major League level yesterday, an interesting move was made in Akron. As reported at Indians Prospect Insider, 2008 5th round pick Zach Putnam was called up from Kinston to pitch in the Aeros bullpen. He was previously starting for the Little Indians, going 2-0 with a 4.13 ERA in 24 innings where he struck out 23 batters while only walking 5. The University of Michigan Wolverine is on the fast track to the bigs as he tops his fastball out at 96 MPH, along with a slider and a solid splitter that can be used as a changeup.

The 6-foot-2-inch, 215-pound Putnam became the first in conference history to earn two spots on the All-Big Ten team, earning recognition as a pitcher and designated hitter his last two seasons in college. He was also Big Ten Pitcher of the Year, going 9-0 in 12 starts with a 2.58 ERA in his junior year. Over three seasons, he was 23-7 in 36 starts with a 3.12 ERA. He was also a tremendous hitter in college as well. Putnam hit .307 with 11 home runs and 51 RBIs in 55 games. He was a career .307 hitter with 19 home runs and 114 RBIs in 132 games.
He helped Michigan win the Big Ten title in each of his three seasons and play in the NCAA Tournament each year. Maybe they could use him to pinch hit for Peralta!

In 2008, Putnam threw 9 2/3 innings in Mahoning Valley, striking out 8 while posting a 3.72 ERA. It shows how much the right hander is progressing to totally skip Lake County and only spend a month in Kinston. It will be interesting to see where his maturation goes as Double A will definitely be a test. With really no hope in Columbus right now in the pen, Putnam may be on the fast track to Cleveland sometime in 2009 after only one year out of college.

Down on the Farm Report: Alexander Perez

The Latin contingent of pitchers in the Cleveland Indians Minor League system is becoming a strength with the emergence of Kelvin De La Cruz, Hector Rondon, and at the big league level Fausto Carmona. You can now add another Dominican to the list, right hander Alexander Perez. Perez is currently dominating the South Atlantic League as a member of the Lake County Captains. He has struck out 23 batters in 22 2/3 innings while walking 7. Perez has yet to record a decision, but has posted a 1.99 ERA in four starts. While only being in the organization for 2 years, Perez has made great progress already pitching in Low A ball at the young age of 19. At 6'2 and only 160 lbs, Alexander has some room to fill out his physique and improve on his 92 MPH fastball, but posts an impressive curveball and changeup, a plus at such a young age. His ground ball to fly ball ratio thusfar is an impressive 2-1, similar to that of Carmona. Look for Perez later this summer to move on up to Kinston with a shot at Akron sometime in 2010.

Down on the Farm Report: Trevor Crowe

It may be sooner rather than later for Cleveland Indians prospect Trevor Crowe's major league debut. With aging veteran David Dellucci experiencing a nagging calf injury, the Tribe may be calling on their top draft pick of 2005 to fill in. Crowe, with his ability to play all three outfield positions, switch hit, and run well would be a natural fit off of the bench in 2009.

This Portland, Oregon native was highly touted coming out of the University of Arizona where he played with current Clipper teammates Jordan Brown and John Meloan. Being the 14th overall selection, Crowe was immediately put on a fast track to move on through the Indians organization as by the end of his first full professional season (2006) he had already logged 154 at bats at Double A Akron. A myriad of injuries and bad luck, coupled with a failed change of position experiment (move to second base) seemed to derail his top prospect standing within the organization. Hard nosed and the eternal fighter, Crowe quickly regained respect in the front office posting a solid 2008 campaign (.302, 41 extra base hits, 18 steals) between Akron and Buffalo.

Originally and probably unfairly compared to Grady Sizemore, Crowe plays and athletic style of baseball possessing most of the prototypical five tools a baseball player should possesses. His career minor league on base percentage is .361 and has steadily climbed over the past two seasons. The Indians feel that more pop in his bat will come in the future as he matures and learns the game. His ability to drive the ball to both outfield gaps will ultimately be the deciding factor of whether Crowe is an everyday player or a fourth outfielder. Some also that he may not have the range to play centerfield on a daily basis, but what I have scene in person of Trevor is a tough, hard nosed kid who could definitely handle the challenge. As the current roster is made up, the Indians really doesn't have a guy to fill in in center if Sizemore needs a day off, so Crowe would be the most logical choice.

Trevor Crowe came in to spring camp as a man on a mission, impressing manager Eric Wedge along the way.

Crowe played well enough to make the ballclub,'' Wedge said. ''He has every tool that you want to see in a young player. But there is no downside to sending him back, because it will help him fine-tune his game. When he comes up — and I think he will at some point in the season — he will be a better player. ohio.com

That "some point" may be to start the season. He hit .289 (13-for-45) with a homer, a triple, a double and three RBIs, while going 6-for-6 in stolen-base attempts. Crowe would also be a much needed steady outfield replacement for both Shin Soo Choo and Ben Francisco if either struggles early on. In his last game up with the big league club, Crowe slugged a long homerun and a double which impressed the front office.

"When Crowe hit his HR to right (which was huge), Antonetti and Shapiro exchanged a raised eyebrow glance." letsgotribe.com

With the lack of first round homegrown talent on the current big league roster, it would be a big win for the organization for Trevor Crowe to become a solid major league contributor. His game reminds some of Arizona Diamondbacks' outfield Eric Byrnes, which would not be a bad thing at all. Look for Crowe to make some type of impact in 2009 with a shot at an everyday spot in 2010.

Down on the Farm Report: Luis Valbuena

While technically still currently in big league camp, newly acquired Cleveland Indians second baseman Luis Valbuena will be starting off the 2009 season as a member of the Columbus Clippers. But for 2010, don't be surprised if this Venezuelan will be a big factor in aiding fellow countryman Asdrubal Cabrera's natural progression to the shortstop position. Only 23, Valbuena was on a similar fast track to the majors, eerily similar to Cabrera. 2008 was a breakout year for him, as he batted a combined .303 with 11 homers and 60 RBI in 128 games, with an OBP at .382. These numbers led him to a late September call up for Seattle, where he appeared in 18 games. Luis is a left handed hitter who shows a little pop off of his bat from what I have seen. Valbuena reminds me a little of Ray Durham, but with more power potential. This spring, the Indians have put him at shortstop a few times and he has shown pretty impressive arm strength and range at a position he will probably play a few times down in Triple A.

Valbuena is best friends with Asdrubal, and both played for Cardenales de Lara in Winter Ball where he batted .291 in a very competitive league. If the Indians were not able to trade for Mark DeRosa, I actually believe Valbuena would have been a viable candidate to start the season on the big league club. He is currently only 2-16 in Spring Training action, but did belt a solo homerun (has been mostly a replacement late in games). Even though he is probably not one of the top 10 prospects in the Tribe organization, I believe Valbuena has a chance to be a better than average Major League second baseman and make the fans of Seattle hope that the Mariners never make a trade with the Indians again. The Tribe infield looks set for 2009, but don't be surprised to see Luis Valbuena up in Cleveland before the summer is over.

For more on Valbuena, visit Indians Prospect Insider.

Down on the Farm Report (Spring Training Addition): Matt Laporta

Last Thursday, Matt LaPorta hit his first Spring Training home run against Arizona Diamondbacks starter Dan Haren. Is this a sign of a future Manny Ramirez or Russell Branyan? That is what February and March baseball provides the fan, hope or skepticism. Now we all know Spring Training games don't count for much, but it does allow the avid fan to see the minor league guys compete in semi-meaningful games against some major leaguers.

Fielding Left Field is much different in the show, as LaPorta learned that same day. The error he was charged with had to big issues, he misplayed the ball and did not communicate real well with Grady Sizemore. These problems often lead to better things to come for a minor leaguer as it presents an area of improvement on a semi-big stage.

Although his glove is not ready for prime time yet, LaPorta is by the day showing the Tribe why they chose him as the number one prospect in the CC Sabathia deal.

LaPorta shows all of the promise of a big league slugger. He is listed at 6-2, 210 lbs, but seems even bigger in person. With the lack of a true power hitting right handed batter on the big league club, the former Gator looks poised to make the jump to the Majors sometime in 2009. But the reality is he probably would be at best a September call-up due to him only being in the professional baseball for 2 full seasons.

The more I see of the position player prospects in the Indians oraganization, the more I get excited for the teams' short term and long term success. Now let's just hope the Tribe has some pitchers on the farm that impress as much as Matt LaPorta does. The dinger he hit was a bomb off of an All-Star, an occurrence that the Indians hope to see for many years to come.

More to come tomorrow as Tribe Times will show videos from Indians Practice, game action, and more!

Down on the Farm Report: Michael Brantley

Don't be surprised to see the first player paying dividends received in the CC Sabathia trade for the Indians in 2009 isn't USA Baseball Olympian Matt Laporta. With Pitchers and Catchers reporting to spring training in less than three weeks and WTAM replaying the Carmona/Sheffield brawl game today, my anticipation for another Indian summer is growing by the day. It lead me to ponder one name that seemed to keep popping up during the past weeks' Winter Press tour and if we could see that man roaming the area preceding the Toyota Home Run porch at Progressive Field; Tribe farmhand Outfielder Michael Brantley. Here are some thoughts around the web about this intriguing 21 year old prospect...

from CastroTurf...

There is a chance -- albeit a slim one -- that Matt LaPorta, Michael Brantley or Trevor Crowe could win a big-league job out of camp. Again, though, it's slim, given that the Indians prefer to have those guys getting everyday at-bats in Triple-A. But it's become quite clear that David Dellucci is on a short leash this season. It also doesn't appear likely the Indians will carry five outfielders at the outset of the season.

Brantley is as mature a 21-year-old as you'll ever meet.

from the DiaTribe...

... I don’t know about you, but the 21-year-old version of myself was not the most impressive or mature person that you would meet and Brantley’s poise at a young age, not to mention the fact that he doesn’t turn 22 until May and figures to start the season in AAA, speaks to a self-confidence (not a cockiness) that the special players often exhibit.

... His stature and the fact that he’s still a 21-year-old growing into his body give some validity to Brantley’s comments during our interview a few months ago that scouts had told him that a comp for him was Garrett Anderson…which, at the time, I scoffed at. Certainly appearances are just that, but the on-base skills have always been there for Brantley (.399 career minor-league OBP) and he walked twice as much as he struck out last year in AA Huntsville, so it will be interesting to see if his power grows as his body matures and he moves himself further up the ladder.

Obviously, Brantley’s ability to hit for extra-base hits in AAA will go a long way to determining where he projects to be as a hitter, but know that Garrett Anderson had 42 extra-base hits as a 21-year-old in AAA in 1993 before becoming a fixture in the Angels’ lineup for the next 13 years, so if Brantley shows an ability to drive the ball in Columbus (now that he’s completely healthy and not hampered by the ankle injury that robbed him of some power in the 2nd half of 2008), it could portend good things for the PTBNL in the CC deal.

from Indians Prospect Insider...

I had a chance to talk to a lot of the guys I had talked to over the course of the season, and was able to finally for the first time talk to Brantley in person. He is only 21 and will be the first month or two of the Triple-A season this year, and is already 6'2" 200 pounds and strong. Good kid, and extremely mature. He often gets knocked because of a lack of power, but I believe it will start to show some this year with more doubles and triples. He's going to be special.

Brantley is the son of former Seattle Mariner Outfielder Mickey Brantley and possesses the potential skills the Tribe has been lacking since the departure of the first and second tour of duties of one Kenny Lofton; speed and on base ability. Although Manager Eric Wedge will continually harp on the idea of Grady Sizemore's love for the top spot in the order, the organization has to realize how much stronger the big league club's lineup would be offensively with Grady batting third. Let's illustrate this idea as if Brantley was ready to step into left field in 2009, a position he may be patrolling up in Cleveland by mid season.

1. Brantley LF

2. DeRosa 3B

3. Sizemore CF

4. Martinez C

5. Hafmer DH

6. Peralta SS

7. Choo RF

8. Garko 1B

9. Cabrera 2B

Let's say Cliff Lee is pitching, or a tough lefty is on the mound, or Hafner needs a day off. The lineup could look like this...

1. Brantley LF

2. DeRosa 3B

3. Sizemore CF

4. Martinez 1B

5. Peralta SS

6. Garko DH

7. Shoppach C

8. Francisco RF

9. Cabrera 2B

The first lineup features Garko batting 8th, which would immediately rank among the American League's best. And the second group is not too shaby either, taking into account that Pronk is going to need more days off this year than in years past. Sizemore in the 3 hole would increase the explosiveness of the daily 1-9 and allow Grady more opportunities to drive in runs. With David Dellucci apparently on a short leash according to Castrovince, the Indians won't hesitate to shake up the outfield in 2009. Also, Shin Soo Choo destroyed right handed pitching last year and may need a platoon mate, and who better than Ben Francisco to be that guy. Ben has demonstrated his ability to hit at the major league level somewhat, but he probably is more suited to be a 4th outfielder rather than an everyday guy. Obviously these scenarios are contingent on Brantley making an adjustment to Triple A Columbus, but his track record seems to point towards a smooth transition. Here is some more analysis from Tony Lastoria over at Indians Prospects Insider...

At only 21 years of age, Brantley has raced up the prospect rankings and climbed the minor league ladder quickly to where he just finished his second season - his first full season - at Double-A Huntsville where he hit .319 with 4 HR, 40 RBI, 28 stolen bases, and a .793 OPS in 106 games. When he opens next season in Triple-A Columbus, he won't turn 22 until mid-May, almost two months into the season. Brantley was in line to be a sure-fire Brewers top ten rated prospect going into next year, and in a much stronger and deeper Indians system is a borderline top ten guy.

...At 21 years of age, Brantley has displayed an elite level approach at the plate striking out just 27 times in 420 at bats this past season, and ranked second in the entire minor leagues with a strikeout per plate appearance ratio of 17.7 (27 K in 479 PA). In his four year minor league career, Brantley has struck out just 142 times in 1633 total plate appearances (11.5 AB/K). While he has only drawn 199 walks in his career, he has an extraordinary ability to consistently put the bat on the ball

His power numbers don't jump off the page, but reports say that he has bulked up to around 200 pounds. Supported by his 6'3 frame, one would deduce that his OPS will rise as he gets older. I remember another prospect the Tribe got from the Expos who didn't have much power in the minors either (Grady Sizemore anyone?). With the luxury of having Sizemore and his 33 homeruns patrolling center, Brantley would not be heavily relied upon for power anyways, just setting the table.

With Brantley being invited to Spring Training with the big club this spring, Wedge and Co. will be keeping a close eye on his development and production in Cactus League action. I imagine they will closely evaluate his defensive progression as well as his eye at the plate. He will be probably be compared and contrasted with fellow Columbus Clipper Trevor Crowe, but if Chris Antonetti is comparing Crowe to Coco Crisp (low OBP guy), I imagine Brantley is currently the more thought of prospect. If Mike can get on base, cover some ground, and rip it up early in Clipperville, the Sabathia trade may have garnered the Indians a much needed leadoff hitter of the Present.

Down on the Farm Report: David Huff

Since the Cleveland Indians are in the basement of the A.L. Central, we decided to further investigate the talent in the minor leagues. Today's topic is AAA pitcher David Huff. This southpaw was drafted in the 1st round of the 2006 amateur draft out of UCLA. While Huff is no fireballer (often topping out in the low 90's), he has rapidly moved through the Indians system. He has in two years went from rookie ball to AAA. Huff will turn only 24 in August and will be an option for the big club rotation in 2009. Ross Atkins has compared him often to Tom Glavine with his pinpoint control. His strikeout to walk ratio is outstanding in Buffalo (11-1), but I don't expect the Indians to rush him. With the season a loss cause, look for Huff to debut sometime in September. Here are his stats this year...

Akron 5-1 1.92 ERA 10 Games Started 65+ innings, 62 K's, 14 Walks.

Buffalo 2-2 3.79 ERA 7 Games Started 38 innings, 42 K's, 4 Walks.

Huff needs to show a bit more dominance in Buffalo to show the parent club he is ready for prime time. I hopefully think he will become more like Aaron Laffey than Jeremy Sowers as his strikeout numbers are higher. Don't see all three in the rotation next year because that would be way too many soft tossing lefties. The Indians pitching depth has been depleted over the past few months severely so Huff will definitely be a factor next season.

Down on the Farm Report: Chris Gimenez

Chris Gimenez has been one of the many shinning stars currently playing down I-77 for the Akron Aeros. This converted catcher is putting up huge offensive numbers, batting .309 (with an eye-popping .472 On Base Percentage), 4 Homeruns and 18 RBI in 46 games played. If he continues to get on base at his current pace, look to see him up at some point with the big club in 2009.

Gimenez was drafted in the 19th round of the 2004 Draft out of the University of Nevada, where he played all over the diamond. Indians Director of Player Development Ross Atkins has raved about this prospect, saying he is a natural leader who takes charge in the clubhouse. Atkins also stated that Chris is currently one of the most productive minor league bat in the system. At 6'2, 200 lbs, he is an extremely durable player who has been transitioning to the catching position pretty well.

The Akron starting staff has been up and down (with David Huff and Ryan Edell being the "up"), but the coaching staff has still allowed Gimenez to call 100% of his pitches. Roving catching instructor Tim Laker has been working with him often, even utilizing a catching machine that delivers real live pitches (Fastballs, Curves, etc) as if it were a live game. Atkins stated that he still needs to be consistent throwing down to second in order to control the running game.

Chris Gimenez has raked at every minor league level. Through 2007 (387 games), he has amassed 60 HR's and compiled a .374 OBP. With Victor Martinez possibly eventually being moved over to first, I believe Gimenez may be a guy who may not be the best defensive catcher, but provide a bat this team and system is in dire need of.

Note* The majority of this articles' information was researched from Cleveland Indians Minor League Insider, and you can find even more about Gimenez here.

Down on the Farm Report: Kelvin De La Cruz

Today we will look at Lake County Captain pitcher Kelvin De La Cruz. This guy is ripping up Single A with a 4-2 record with a 1.57 ERA in 51 2/3 innings. Kelvin idolizes fellow countryman Fausto Carmona, who are both from the Dominican Republic. He boasts a 94 MPH fastball to go along with a change and a curve. The amazing thing is his dominance at the level has occurred at such a young age. De La Cruz is 19 years old, and a towering 6'5, but still needs to gain weight as he is listed at only 187 lbs. With the depth of the pitching in each level, this guy may be a pitcher other teams target in future dealings with the Tribe. Look for him to be at Kinston sometime later this year with a spot in the Akron rotation looming in 2009.

Down on the Farm Report: Wes Hodges

With the Cleveland Indians offense woes continuing, we decided to take a look at what players may be able to help out in minors. Since Travis Fryman retired in 2002, the last 5 years have seen Casey Blake, Bill Selby, Ricky Gutierrez, John McDonald, Jhonny Peralta, Aaron Boone, Greg LaRocca, Angel Santos, Zach Sorensen, Jose Hernandez, Andy Marte, Ramon Vazquez, Lou Merloni, Hector Luna, Kevin Kouzmanoff, Ronnie Belliard, Mike Rouse, Chris Gomez and Asdrubal Cabrera occupy the hot corner for the Tribe. This spot in the lineup is generally a power position, but as you can see the Indians have been lacking in this area for most of the decade. Currently, the roster is comprised of free agent to be Casey Blake and bench warmer bust Andy Marte, which makes you long for the days of this guy. This seems to be area that needs to be improved in 2009.

To the rescue, (hopefully), is Akron Aeros starting third baseman Wes Hodges. A 2006 2nd round pick out of Georgia Tech, Hodges has quickly moved up three levels since 2007. He is currently batting .287 with 7 Homeruns and 34 RBI. Scouts have said that he in a natural hitter, and possesses outstanding athleticism. His range and arm strength seem above average in the games I witnessed in spring training. Wes has only made 5 errors so far, not bad for his relative youth. Hodges on base percentage (.340) is not quite where it should be, only walking 11 times in 155 plate appearances. As his OBP grows, walks increase and defense remains consistent, Hodges should be in Buffalo sooner rather than later. I would not expect to see him in Cleveland this year unless Major League injuries on the big club arise, as he is not on the 40 man roster. 2009 seems to be Wes Hodges year to compete for the Third Base spot in Spring Training. That would be a welcome addition to a team looking to find another solid run producing staple in the middle of the order for the future.

To read more about Wes Hodges and more, please visit Cleveland Indians Minor League Insider. The site is like a bible to the Indians Minor League system.

Down on the Farm Report: Adam Miller

It has been a struggle for Adam Miller to even get on the mound for a game that counts. Between elbow, shoulder, and blister problems, this farm phenom has been limited to just 19 games last year. The 23-year old Texan fire-baller has been rumored to be included in almost every Tribe trade possibility over the past few seasons. My friend Ryan has said that he is a myth, never to ascend to anything. I believe he will be our future closer. Yesterday was Miller's first appearance in a game that counted, and he pitched well. He threw 5 innings, gave up 4 hits, walked 2, 0 earned runs, while striking out two. The Indians plan for him is to keep Miller starting in the minors to stretch his arm out. If all goes well, we may be seeing this alleged number 1 prospect sometime this summer in an Indians uniform.