I put this description of position players into part 1, but, there was only one contribution. I'm guessing few if any read it. So, I decided to create a new thread to see if we could generate more discussion:
When folks suggest that our farm is bereft of players that will support the ML team, my first thought is they do so out of ignorance. It is not by accident that our AA Springfield team is one of the best in the minors. AAA Memphis too has an easy winning record though doesn't stand out like Springfield. Interestingly, it isn't the pitching as much as the position players that stand out on our farm...IMO. Not saying we don't have promising pitching. We do. But, keeping the pitching healthy is a constant dilemma. Ask the Dodgers.
So what position players are beginning to stand out and seem destined to end up in St Louis with promise?
Wetherholt heads the list and is recognized by all the scouting organizations as a top prospect. He is likely here next year...early. A good candidate for ROY.
But, who else? Names like Saggesse, Crooks, Church, Leonard Bernal and Joshua Baez. The first 3 are pretty much ML ready.
IMO Church has been the most consistent minor leaguer and has made steady progress both defensively and offensively. Church impressed significantly defensively in ST. He made great plays with his speed and highly accurate arm. But, it is his bat that he's been known for since HS. He only stands 5'10" so he has to force himself into the 26 man. I think he is in the process of doing exactly that. IMO, he is right now an improvement over Noot, Walker and Scott.
Crooks has been the heir apparent behind the plate. He is both defensively and offensively solid. He hits for average and has ten HR's this year between Memphis and Springfield.
Saggesse can just flat out hit. He's a line drive looking for a place to drop. He can play any position in the infield, except pitch and catch, adequately. He is either a trade asset or on the 26 man roster next year.
The only problem with these three is they don't have super star potential dripping from their pores. For that we have 2 players in Springfield breaking out in a very big way this year.
Bernal at 6' 240 lbs, has always shown promise, but this year seems to be bursting through with BA, power, and, not just good, but great defensive potential. His tools and attitude promise a rising star winging its way to St Louis. His switch hitting 2025 line .302 .380 .547 .927, includes 11 doubles and 11 HR's. He has on occasion strapped Springfield on his back and carried them. I believe he may become more impactful than Wetherholt. He is smart and a tireless worker.
Interestingly, Bernal became a switch hitter to handicap himself for his younger brother in the back yard, but, has developed to the extent that he is virtually as good either side of the plate. His vigorous routine every day faithfully works to develop each of his tools. IMO we have a superstar in the making.
Speaking of superstar, Joshua Baez, 6'3" and 220 lbs, has come on strong in 2025. This guy seemed to have more tools than talent until bursting out on the scene this year. His high propensity to strike out has made a dramatic turn around this year. He has all the tools, arm strength, speed, hits for average and POWER. stats .316 .402 .544 .946. Baez has virtually cut his K's in half from Peoria last year while playing in AA. Scouts believe he can play CF in the majors if you can imagine that kind of power in center.
Recently the Cardinals have added a couple of international up and comers that have caught attention from the various scouting agencies. Rainiel Rodriguez, catcher, and Yairo Padilla SS. Since signing Padilla has grown 4" to 6'4".
Rodriguez seems to represent the most power in the organization hitting a HR a day for about a week in the FCL before being promoted to Palm Beach. He's 5'10" 197 lbs and only 18 years old.
Padilla only 17 years old remains in the FCL. Is recognized for outstanding defense but shows good pitch recognition and the scouts seem to love him.
I believe that Chaim and his soldiers have already had an impact on the farm and are just beginning to add their value. I expect much more involvement with International signings and player development.
I cannot wait to see how our farm develops over the next few years. Heck, I can't wait to see who we sign with the 5th draft choice next month.
duce and others are encouraged to step up and add names, make comments. Any and all discussion is welcome.
Futuregm was the only one to respond:
Please have at it.Good write up, I’d include Deniel Ortiz as a sleeper. He was a 16th round pick last year, had great numbers in the MLB Draft League. So far for Palm Beach he has hit: .276/.396/.408. He has 16 steals as well. He’s been especially strong of late hitting .338/.446/.545 over the last 28 days. And more than anything his statcast numbers are elite.
https://x.com/KareemSSN/status/1935438498447901059