Cliff Notes: Ventura, A Pair of Ostriches, Mets Previews and Arizona Power
Today my big accomplishment was making the trek from the Twin Cities to Kansas City. While I was in the car with my wife and kids for seven hours today I came up with a couple of research intensive articles to start working on. At this point I’m mentally fried and there are days I despise writing intros so I present you with this morning links, devoid of fanfare. Unless of course the thought of driving through Iowa is exciting to you.
Will the added bulk aid or hinder Ventura’s march toward Kansas City? (Photo Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports)
Brian Henry, a staffer on Kings of Kauffman, noted that Yordano Ventura’s stock could increase simply as a result of adding some weight over the offseason. I agree with the assessment that additional bulk could help his durability and increase his chances of making it to the majors as a starter. However the speculation that he will wind up in the bullpen by many sources goes beyond just his height and weight. Delivery, pitch angle and mechanics all play a role in the projections and I remain skeptical about Ventura’s chances to have a lasting, or even short-lived, impact as a starter in Kansas City. We also can’t just dismiss that packing some pounds could detract from what makes him so special and intriguing as a prospect.
This offseason the Phillies renamed their Eastern League franchise and switched from the “ho-hum” Reading Phillies to their new name, the Reading Fightin’ Phils. Their logo features an ostrich, which is fun, but the team is taking things a step further by bringing in two of the birds to have on hand at the stadium.
Quick Hits:
Over on Rising Apple, Michael Lecolant published season previews for two of the Mets affiliates – the Las Vegas 51’s (PCL) and Binghamton (EL).
Mike Newman sheds some light on three Diamondbacks prospects that stand out as a result of their power.
Bullpen Banter continues to release the Top-125 prospect lists. On Thursday it was Jeff Reese’s turn to share and on Friday it was Al Skorupa’s turn to publish his personal rankings.
Wrapping up the last of our link based notes for the day, MiLB.com recently selected the best rotations and lineups in each of the full season leagues.