1. Trevor Reckling, P – Reckling has 3 solid pitches and is working on a fourth. His fastball doesn’t have much velocity, but has movement. He’s got a power curve and a plus change-up. He’s got a useable slider that’s still a work in progress. If he continues to build on his previous success, he’ll be a 2-4 starter.
2. Mike Trout, OF – Trout is a hard working prospect. He’s currently a good contact hitter, but there are questions about his power potential based off his swing. He’s patient, but needs to lower the strikeouts a little; this will happen as he advances and works on his pitch recognition. If he puts it together, he could be one of the top OF prospects in baseball next year.
3. Hank Conger, C – Conger has made significant strides over the last year. The main factor was him staying healthy, which is huge. The result was improved discipline and defense. There are still questions about whether he can stick at catcher; he loses some appeal if he has to change positions.
4. Peter Bourjos, OF – Bourjos’ calling card is his speed; he’s one of the fastest players in the Angels system. He’s improved his plate discipline, but still need to take some more walks if he wants to be a lead off hitter. He could be a September call up if all goes right.
5. Garrett Richards, P – Richards has incredible stuff, which puts him in an interesting position – a good season will put him one everyone’s lists. Of course, he’s got the questions that can hamper his progress, namely his command. He’s got the potential for ace status, but could easily stop developing and become a middle reliever.
6. Randal Grichuck, OF – I’ve seen reports ranging from the best swing ever to too many holes in his swing. I’m somewhere in the middle on him. He’s got a lot of upside. His main issue right now is plate discipline; if he can get a little more control of the strike zone, he’ll be a good hitter.
7. Trevor Bell, P – Bell is a pitcher that has decent stuff and great control. He’s ready and could get his feet wet in the bullpen this year; he did see some major league time last year, but didn’t look well. He’s got the potential to be a #5 starter.
8. Jordan Walden, P – Walden has the potential to move up the list if he could stay healthy. He’s got 4 pitches, although he’s working on command of his slider and the development of his change-up. He has questionable mechanics, so it’s very possible that injuries are permanent.
9. Michael Kohn, P – Kohn is a solid reliever. He spent the past season in both levels of A-ball, and dominated both leagues (103 Ks in 65 1/3 IP). Since he’s a reliever, he should move quickly and could be part of the bullpen next year.
10. Alexi Amarista, 2B – Amarista is a small second baseman, but he’s young. He’s profiling more as a utility player, but he’s great on defense. He’s got the ability to play both middle infield positions. If he can develop anything with the bat, he’ll be able to stick in the line up.
