5. Brian Matusz
Brian Matusz, LHP, Baltimore Orioles – Brian Matusz played in parts of eight seasons and finished with 2.3 rWAR. Like so many on the list, he’s a former first-round pick. He had three nice seasons for Baltimore between 2013-2015 as a reliever before being traded to the Braves in 2016. The Braves designated him for assignment, and he was picked up by the Cubs. He played in just six games for the Cubs.
4. Buster Posey
Buster Posey, C, San Francisco – It’s safe to say that the Giants won this prospect list. Two of the top ten prospects were not only a part of the Giants’ organization but they helped lead them to three World Series Championships. Posey has amassed a 42.1 rWAR in his career, good for tops on this list. He has a Rookie of the Year Award, an MVP, four Silver Sluggers, a Gold Glove, and a batting title.
3. Giancarlo Stanton
Giancarlo Stanton, OF, Miami Marlins – Despite the long list of injuries that have plagued Giancarlo Stanton’s career, he landed in second place on this list behind Posey in total WAR with 39.9. When Stanton plays, he’s an absolute monster. The key is keeping him on the field. Stanton has average of 31 homers while only averaging 116 games per campaign.
2. Stephen Strasburg
Stephen Strasburg, RHP, Washington Nationals – Strasburg has been everything he was projected to be. He has a career WAR of 33.9 and a World Series MVP. He’s one of the true studs of the game who has lived up to the hype as one of the top two prospects of 2010.
1. Jason Heyward
Jason Heyward, OF, Atlanta Braves – Jason Heyward was a very exciting five-tool prospect. The bat showed flashes but also streakiness. The Braves experimented by moving him around the lineup, but his bat just couldn’t live up to the hype it received in the minors. That doesn’t take away from his contributions as a player. Some consider Heyward a bust as the former number one prospect, yet he has compiled the third-most wins above replacement on the list, behind Buster Posey and Giancarlo Stanton. He’s been one of the best outfield defenders of the past decade. Since 2010 no outfielder has more defensive runs saved than Jason Heyward.
How does this list make you feel about your team trading some of its top prospects for proven stars?