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2016 Outfield Prospects and Dynasty Rankings

This is an outfield prospects omnibus, a one stop clearinghouse for all of the profiles I created in the last month. With this post finished, I'll have just enough time to whip through starting pitching before we're too deep into dynasty draft season. You can also read about catchersfirst base, second base, shortstop, and third base.

Mostly, the profiles are unchanged. There are also three unaffiliated players worth a closer look. Their profiles are new. You can also now hotly debate my rankings throughout the entire position rather than by division.

I've truncated the list to include only the players for which I wrote long form profiles. If you want even more outfielders to consider, visit the division articles (NL East, AL East, NL Central, AL Central, NL West, AL West).

To see more of the same, be sure to also check out our awesome fantasy baseball rankings assistant tool. We have tiered rankings and analysis across all positions, more of my MLB prospect rankings, dynasty/keeper league rankings and more. You can easily sort, filter and export them all for free.

 

Top 40 Outfield Dynasty Rankings

The statistics reported are for the listed level only.
 

1. Byron Buxton (OF, MIN, MLB)
Stats: 138 PA, .209/.250/.326, 2 HR, 2 SB, 31.9% K rate, 4.3% BB rate
Age 22

Arguably the top prospect in baseball, Buxton had a rocky major league debut last season. He performed well in the minors prior to his call up. I wouldn't describe his .283/.351/.489 line in Double-A as face melting. It's a good line, but it doesn't scream major league ready. Scouts insist he'll develop more game power, and he already looks to have a 12 home run floor. He's also an easy bet for 20 stolen bases.

Keep an eye on his strikeout rates. His plate discipline is merely decent, and he swung at a lot of bad pitches out of the strike zone in the majors. Hopefully that's just a sign of nerves. With Miguel Sano moving to the outfield and Eddie Rosario, Oswaldo Arcia, and Max Kepler also hanging around the roster, Buxton isn't guaranteed to open the season in the majors. Twins management has said as much.

Now is a good time to buy "low" on Buxton. If he's still on a contender's roster, they may be willing to cash him in for a good mid-tier talent like Kyle Seager (depending on your league depth). There was a time when Buxton was frequently compared to Trout. If that's what you're expecting from him, you're asking for too much. I'm seeing more in common with George Springer - less power, a little more speed, and a more consistent average.

2. Nomar Mazara (OF, TEX, AAA)
Stats: 88 PA, .358/.409/.444, 1 HR, 0 SB, 11.4% K rate, 5.7% BB rate
Age 20

Entering his age 21 season, Mazara is a contender for top prospect in baseball. He's a hitter, pure and simple. Most of his 2015 was spent at Double-A where he hit .284/.357/.443 with 13 home runs as one of the youngest players in the league. He also posted respectable walk and strikeout rates.

Mazara features a sweet left-handed swing that should tally 25 to 30 home runs annually in his prime. He's on the 40-man roster, although an extended call up in 2016 seems unlikely. The Rangers have enough outfield depth to tinker with his service time. They also need to get a look at a couple others before Mazara blocks them permanently. Mazara's performance and the demands of a contending roster could change the script.

3. Andrew Benintendi (OF, BOS, A)
Stats: 86 PA, .351/.430/.581 4 HR, 3 SB, 10.5% K rate, 11.6% BB rate
Age 21

The seventh overall pick of the 2015 draft had an impressive debut. He steamrolled Low-A pitching and continued the onslaught in Single-A. Baseball America voted him the best pure hitter in the draft. It showed.

As a college pick, the Red Sox will let Benintendi set his own pace to the majors. He'll start 2016 in full season ball and could reach Double- or Triple-A by the end of the season. A major league debut is not entirely out of the question, although it's unlikely at this stage.

With a mix of power, speed, contact skills, and plate discipline, Benintendi promises massive fantasy upside. He profiles as a future first or second round draft pick with a similar ceiling to Mookie Betts. Like his probable future teammate, Benintendi is somewhat undersized. He's listed at 5'10'' and 170 lbs. It's the only knock against him as a player.

4. Lewis Brinson (OF, TEX, AA)
Stats: 120 PA, .291/.328/.545, 6 HR, 2 SB, 23.3% K rate, 5.0% BB rate
Age 21

Brinson is another guy who could be the top prospect in baseball within a few months time. The above quoted stats are misleading as Brinson wrecked Single-A, hit well in Double-A, and destroyed Triple-A (37 PA). He'll be ticketed back to the top level this year.

The former first round pick is not on the 40-man roster, putting his timetable behind Mazara. His swing has enough leverage to hit 20 home runs (he did last season). His plus speed should let him stick in center field and swipe around 20 bags a year. His contact skills and plate discipline seem to be trending positively too.

5. Aaron Judge (OF, NYY, AAA)
Stats: 260 PA, .224/.308/.373 8 HR, 6 SB, 28.5% K rate, 11.2% BB rate
Age 23

Judge is entering his age 24 season so it's about time for him to make his major league debut. The Yankees currently have Aaron Hicks as their fourth outfielder. In other words, Judge is thoroughly blocked. The season-ending injury to Greg Bird could open an eventual path to playing time.

In his first taste of Triple-A, Judge was unimpressive. He's considered to possess plus-plus raw power which should play well in the power friendly AL East. Strikeouts figure to be a problem as he generally takes a seat in over a quarter of his plate appearances. If he doesn't tighten up his contact rates, his ceiling may look something like the 2015 version of Justin Upton without the stolen bases. Or perhaps Nelson Cruz. Those are still very good outcomes (do note, I'm talking about peak ceiling). The downside would have more in common with 2015 Jay Bruce.

In any event, Judge looks like a 25 home run threat in the near future. Whether he can produce other redeeming qualities remains to be seen.

6. Bradley Zimmer (OF, CLE, AA)
Stats: 214 PA, .219/.313/.374 6 HR, 12 SB, 25.2% K rate, 8.4% BB rate
Age 23

Already, we've reached the "can miss" portion of the list. Zimmer is an impressive fantasy prospect. He has a 25 home run ceiling and swiped 44 bases across two levels last season. Look for around 20 to 25 steals in the majors. So what's the problem?

Strikeouts are an issue for the 2014 first round pick (21st overall). His physical talent and athleticism are unquestioned. However, because he isn't a threat to win home run crowns, he's leaving something on the table with a 25 percent strikeout rate.

Zimmer has just two seasons of professional experience - really one and a half. There's plenty of time for him to have an aha! moment. If everything clicks together, he has a Top 50 player ceiling. More likely, he'll develop into a solid core asset with a few flaws.

7. Austin Meadows (OF, PIT, A+)
Stats: 556 PA, .307/.357/.407  HR, 20 SB, 14.2% K rate, 7.4% BB rate
Age 20

Meadows received a brief call up to Double-A at the end of the 2015 season and held his own. A stint in the AFL was decidedly less successful. Overall, it was an encouraging first full season of game action for Meadows. He's a center fielder for now with a future in left field.

He's a potential five category fantasy contributor, although there are facets of his game that could use improvement. It was nice to see him using his speed on the base paths as there was some uncertainty about his ability to swipe bases. He now looks like a reasonable bet for 15 steals annually.

The development of his power, plate discipline, and contact skills will determine if he's a solid regular or a star in the making. Thus far, he has kept his walk and strikeout rates under control, but it may be at the expense of his in-game power. He has the tools to pop 20 or more home runs at his peak. He's still a couple months from turning 21, making him one of the younger players headed to Double-A.

8. Joey Gallo (OF, TEX, MLB)
Stats: 123 PA, .204/.301/417, 6 HR, 3 SB, 46.3% K rate, 12.2% BB rate
Age 22

As if the Rangers needed more top outfield prospects, most assume Gallo is ticketed for left field. Or first base. Or designated hitter. He probably isn't returning to his natural position of third base.

Gallo has 80 grade power, and it's his carrying tool. Chances are, you know about the strikeouts. I'm sure the club wants him working every day to make more consistent contact. It's hard to succeed in the majors when you give away over 40 percent of your plate appearances.

In his prime, we could be looking at a low average, 40 home run threat. The 2012 version of Adam Dunn is probably a good example of what we hope he'll become. Recall, that was the "last hurrah" version of Dunn. Even that requires quite a bit more contact than he's shown. The bust risk is glaringly obvious.

9. Dalton Pompey (OF, TOR, AAA)
Stats: 295 PA, .285/.372/.356 1 HR, 16 SB, 13.9% K rate, 12.2% BB rate
Age 23

Pompey opened 2015 in Toronto, but he was sent back to the minors. A late season call-up burned his rookie eligibility. He's still a prospect in my eyes.

The 2015 season has left analysts confused about his future role. His power, contact ability, and plate discipline were all inconsistent throughout the year. It's for this reason that the Blue Jays will probably send him back to Triple-A to start 2016 with Michael Saunders starting in the majors. Pompey should earn a shot at a regular role later in the season.

The one thing we can count on is speed. He should swipe 20 to 40 bases annually. He has a history of high walk rates in the minors and should eventually figure out the contact issues that plagued him in the majors. The upside looks something like vintage Shane Victorino with a better walk rate.

10. Hyun-soo Kim (OF, BAL, KBO)
Stats: 630 PA, .326/.438/.541 28 HR, 11 SB, 10% K rate, 16% BB rate
Age 28

The Orioles signed Kim over the offseason, and he's primed to take over as the club's leadoff hitter. The 28-year-old isn't a prospect in the same sense as the other players on this list. He still has plenty to offer dynasty owners and should be available in most leagues.

Kim recently experienced the best season of his career. In the offense friendly KBO, he posted 28 home runs and walked over 50 percent more than he struck out. His left-handed bat will fit well at Camden Yards. The park is particularly friendly to left-handed power.

If Kim can import even a modicum of the contact skills, power, and plate discipline he demonstrated in Korea, he'll be a fantasy monster. While he can steal bases, don't expect more than a handful. Instead, you're looking for a high run total, 15 or more home runs, and a solid batting average.

11. Nick Williams (OF, PHI, AA)
Stats: 515 PA, .303/.354/.491 17 HR, 13 SB, 19% K rate, 6% BB rate
Age 22

Williams is a quality outfield prospect with loud tools and a possible 2016 ETA. It's his proximity to the majors that gets him the nod over the next guy on the list. The Phillies acquired Williams as part of the Cole Hamels trade - a deal which included several of their current top prospects (and Jerad Eickhoff).

The 2015 campaign was perhaps Williams' best in the minors. He still has plate discipline issues. Specifically, he's over aggressive. But the season was a success in that he improved his strikeout rate substantially while tapping into his power more consistently. It's tempting to look at Williams as a potential five category fantasy contributor. The stolen bases may not translate to the majors - he was caught eight times in 21 attempts.

When Williams is ready, the Phillies outfield will magically develop an opening for him. The club has enough depth that there's no need to rush him to the front lines. Don't be surprised if he spends most of the next two seasons in the minors. If and when the light bulb goes off, he could quickly ascend to the heart of the Phillies order. There's still a wide range of potential outcomes with Williams.

12. Kyle Tucker (OF, HOU, R)

Stats: 121 PA, .286/.322/.393, 1 HR, 14 SB, 12.4% K rate, 5.8% BB rate
Age 19

The fifth overall pick of the 2015 draft split his season between two rookie ball levels. His brother, Preston Tucker, is coming off a solid rookie season, but everybody in the baseball world prefers Kyle.

Like Mazara, he's a sweet-swinging lefty with the potential for 20 or more home runs down the line. He didn't show much power in his professional debut, but it's a little early to adjust the scouting report. From the videos I've watched, I see a few small adjustments he could make to really upgrade the power projection.

Tucker also has plenty of speed. If he stays svelte, he might snag upwards of 20 bases a year in the majors. Personally, I see him filling out as he ages. He'll probably become more of a 10 to 15 steal guy in the process. Distance from the majors is the biggest detracting factor for Tucker.

13. Jesse Winker (OF, CIN, AA)

Stats: 526 PA, .282/.390/.433 13 HR, 8 SB, 15.8% K rate, 14.1% BB rate
Age 22

Winker was tantalizingly good in 2015. The patient approach, low strikeout rate, and flashes of power suggest he could be a top of the order threat. He'll head to Triple-A to start 2016 and may be big league ready by midseason. Don't be surprised if the club opts to evaluate other options with an eye towards an early 2017 debut for Winker. That way, they'll get an extra season of club control.

Great American Ball Park certainly aids Winker's future fantasy value. The homer friendly park should help his power play up. He doesn't profile to be a top home run hitter with maybe 20 park assisted big flies per season as an expected ceiling. Suspect defense may force him to move to first base sometime in the future, but he should hold up in an outfield corner for the near term. Don't be fooled by the eight stolen bases, he won't chip in with more than a handful.

14. Daz Cameron (OF, HOU, R)
Stats: 124 PA, .272/.372/.350, 0 HR, 11 SB, 25.0% K rate, 12.9% BB rate
Age 19

The Astros had the ridiculously good fortune to possess the second (Alex Bregman), fifth (Tucker), and 37th (Cameron) overall picks last summer, and they used them to select three of the top 10 prospects in the draft. Savings from Bregman and Tucker were applied to Cameron who Baseball America tabbed as the fifth best prospect in the draft - one spot behind Bregman and three ahead of Tucker. Other outlets had Cameron no lower than 12th overall.

Cameron currently has some contact issues against quality competition, but most scouts think his plus bat speed will help him to improve. He already has a good plan at the plate as evidenced by his walk rate. Power may take time to develop and isn't likely to be a carrying tool. He has the speed to be a terror on the bases. His line drive-oriented stroke and patience should lead to high OBPs.

15. Brett Phillips (OF, MIL, AA)
Stats: 98 PA, .250/.361/413 0 HR, 2 SB, 30.6% K rate, 14.3% BB rate (with Brewers)
Age 21

The stat line above is misleading. Phillips was dealt to Milwaukee at the trade deadline as part of the Carlos Gomez deal. To that point, he had 16 home runs, 15 stolen base, a robust triple slash, and a sub-20 percent strikeout rate. The transition away from his old organization seems to have hurt his production. An injury didn't help either.

Phillips could prove to be a better fantasy prospect than Winker, but there's a little more risk to his profile. His walk rates tend to jump around, hinting at an inconsistent approach at the plate. That's not automatically a bad thing, and it's encouraging to see his 2014 breakout gained steam right up until he was traded. The fantasy ceiling is a top of the order bat with about 20 home runs, 15 stolen bases, good run production, and a BABIP-fueled average.

He'll likely return to Double-A since he had mixed results at the level. A quick start could put him on track for a late season call-up. Keep in mind, the Brewers have every reason to hold him in the minors until late-April 2017 or later - including ludicrous outfield depth. That way, they gain an extra season of club control. If the contending Cubs could do it with Kris Bryant last year, the Brewers can certainly find the necessary excuses to tinker with Phillips' service time.

16. Victor Robles (OF, WAS, A-)
Stats: 167 PA, .343/.424/.479, 2 HR, 12 SB, 12.6% K rate, 4.8% BB rate
Age 19

In many ways, Robles is a vastly superior prospect to Williams. He's rocketed up prospect lists in the last calendar year after two successful stops in the Nationals system. Continued success in 2016 could see him considered for a spot among the Top 10-20 prospects in baseball.

Robles doesn't have much professional experience. The excitement is all about his projectability and tools. It helps that he's looked unchallenged in his brief career. He is a contact oriented hitter, but it's uncertain how much, if at all, his power will develop. His raw tools suggest the potential for quality defense and a high average.

He hasn't played enough professionally to get a firm read on his plate discipline. His pitch recognition will determine just how quickly he surges through the system. Will he be knocking on the door in late 2017, or does he have several years of development ahead of him? The latter scenario is much more common with this type of prospect.

While Robles is no Bryce Harper, his emergence could help the Nationals move on from their current star. Harper is a free agent after the 2018 season, and it's widely assumed he'll test the market in search of a record-shattering contract. Meanwhile, Robles will be entering his age 22 season and should be ready to contribute.

17. Derek Fisher (OF, HOU, A+)
Stats: 398 PA, .262/.354/.471, 16 HR, 23 SB, 23.9% K rate, 11.8% BB rate
Age 22

The third overall pick of the 2014 draft, Fisher is quite a bit closer to the majors than the other top Astros outfielders. He thrived in High-A and should be ticketed for a full year at Double-A. Tucker's skill set may play up for fantasy owners with the potential for 25 or more home runs and stolen bases per season.

Some scouts cite worries about his contact rates. They may crop up with more frequency against better pitching. For now, he's shown plate discipline and enough quality contact to be a desirable prospect. If he fizzles a bit in the upper minors, consider buying low while hoping he adjusts.

18. Max Kepler (OF, MIN, AA)
Stats: 482 PA, .322/.416/.531 9 HR, 18 SB, 13.1% K rate, 13.9% BB rate
Age 23

In terms of actual performance, Kepler's Double-A campaign was the best among the AL Central prospects. He walked more than he struck out while also showing some power and base running ability. Scouts never really looked at him as a base thief so don't get too caught up in the stolen base total.

Kepler entered 2015 as a top German prospect. Note the ancestral identifier - top German prospects are very different from top prospects. His breakout season has him nipping the true top prospect lists, but he's not a consensus favorite.

There's a certain lack of ceiling for fantasy purposes that takes away from the attraction. He's maybe a 10 home run, 10 stolen base threat now with the potential to grow into more power. His hit tool offers the most upside with possible plus average and OBP. That combination could lead to a top-of-the-order role which guarantees fantasy utility. The downside is a fourth outfielder.

19. Clint Frazier (OF, CLE, A+)
Stats: 588 PA, .285/.377/.465 16 HR, 15 SB, 21.3% K rate, 11.6% BB rate
Age 21

Frazier, a former fifth overall pick, could easily be ranked ahead of Zimmer or Kepler. His speed has drawn slightly better grades than Zimmer, although that doesn't show in stolen base totals. Frazier's power is a little more predictable too.

Like his future teammate, Frazier also has serious strikeout issues. He made encouraging strides in that regard this season, cutting down from a 30 percent strikeout rate in High-A. He should be headed to Double-A this year. His ability to maintain a roughly 20 percent strikeout rate will decide if he's a top fantasy prospect or just another guy with upside. He doesn't have enough power or speed to get by with Springer's contact rates. His pedigree as a former top pick ensures he'll continue to receive chances.

20. David Dahl (OF, COL, AA)
Stats: 302 PA, .278/.304/.417, 6 HR, 22 SB, 23.8% K rate, 3.6% BB rate
Age 22

Dahl missed the second half of the 2015 season after a nasty career threatening outfield collision. It was the type of injury that could permanently lower his ceiling. To be clear, we'll need to see how he reacts on the field this season before amending past projections and reports.

Assuming he returns to full health, Dahl is an impatient hitter with contact issues, solid raw power, and above average speed. Coors Field features prominently in this article - the park ensures fantasy value for just about anybody worthy of starting. A future ceiling of 20 home runs with around 25 stolen bases is certainly enticing. First though, he needs to improve his plate patience and make better contact.

21. Garrett Whitley (OF, TBR, A-)
Stats: 48 PA, .143/.250/.190 0 HR, 3 SB, 25% K rate, 10.4% BB rate
Age 18

Not every top prospect hits the ground running. Whitley was serviceable in 116 plate appearances in rookie ball. Upon promotion to Low-A, he performed poorly. It was only a two week stint so there's no need to panic.

To this point, Whitley has shown power, speed, and decent plate discipline. He's had trouble making contact. Low BABIPs suggest that the contact he does make isn't square. Since he was a high school pick, the Rays will feel no need to rush him through the minors. He'll begin the year in extended Spring Training before progressing to a short season league. It may be a few years before he leaps up this list.

22. Anthony Alford (OF, TOR, A+)
Stats: 255 PA, .302/.380/.444 3 HR, 15 SB, 19.2% K rate, 11% BB rate
Age 21

Despite signing in 2012, Alford has just 597 professional plate appearances to his name. Of those, 487 came last season. Even with his lack of experience, Alford raked his way through two levels. He earned an invitation to Spring Training where he'll have an opportunity to impress his future teammates. Barring a catastrophe, there is no chance he would open the season in the majors.

Instead, look for Alford in Double-A. The level should pose a challenge due to improved defenses and breaking balls. Alford has relied heavily upon a high BABIP. He posted a .419 BABIP in Low-A and a .374 BABIP in High-A. This is a good sign for a speedster, but it's not always sustainable in the majors.

Keep an eye on his power, walk rate, and strikeout rate. Scouts say he has above average raw power. It's yet to show it's face in games. He's consistently tallied high walk rates and improved his strikeout rate throughout the 2015 season. If his contact skills keep improving without a steep decline in walks, we could be looking at a future lead off hitter. He's still a couple years away from his major league debut.

23. Raimel Tapia (OF, COL, A+)
Stats: 593 PA, .305/.33/467  12 HR, 26 SB, 17.7% K rate, 4.0% BB rate
Age 22

Another impatient Rockies hitter with some power and speed, Tapia won't need to improve his plate discipline in order to thrive in the majors. Unlike Dahl, Tapia is a high contact hitter. He could probably already fit as a fifth outfielder just purely on athleticism.

Tapia's skill set skews towards speed, although he's only above average in this regard. His future power is probably average even with the usual Coors Field boost. As such, look for a ceiling around 15 home runs, 25 stolen bases, and a .280 average.

24. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (OF, TOR, DNP)
Stats: Did Not Play
Age 17

Yes, he's the son of that Vladimir Guerrero. The Jays managed to ink the number one international prospect, although he was too young to actually suit up for game action. He'll make his professional debut this season.

It says something that scout reports put Guerrero on the fringes of the top 100 dynasty prospects without even playing a game. Guerrero Jr. isn't as physically gifted as his father. He shares his father's bat speed, strength, and contact ability, and some scouts say he already has a better plate approach (not exactly a tough feat). Power will be his calling card. Some scouts are already talking about an eventual move to first base or designated hitter.

Baseball America asked scouts if they would prefer Guerrero to Red Sox third base prospect Rafael Devers. They were divided citing Devers pure hitting ability as comparable to Guerrero's potentially elite power.

25. Manuel Margot (OF, SDP, AA)
Stats: 282 PA, .271/.326/.419  3 HR, 19 SB, 12.8% K rate, 7.4% BB rate
Age 21

Acquired as the headliner in the Craig Kimbrel trade, Margot could be a future star in the making. He's reportedly working to improve his plate discipline which is evident in his uncharacteristically decent walk rate at Double-A. His profile includes plus speed and contact skills, leading to future projections of a high average with 40 stolen base potential.

Margot is on the 40-man roster. A batch of injuries or terrible performance out of Jon Jay and Melvin Upton could lead to his promotion. The club would probably prefer to promote him early in 2017 for service time reasons. He may eventually develop 10 home run power.

26. Jorge Ona (OF, Unsigned, DNP)
Stats: Did Not Play
Age 19

The Padres are favored to sign Ona. The hype is mostly from one excellent tournament in Mexico where he hit four home runs in eight games. The scouting profile suggests a bright future as a right fielder with power to spare. Seeing as he hasn't played professionally, he's probably several years from sniffing a major league field. For all but the deepest (and most liberally rostered) leagues, there's still time to watch and see where he signs.

27. Mallex Smith (OF, ATL, AAA)
Stats: 307 PA, .281/.339/.367, 34 SB, 14.3 K rate, 7.8 BB rate
Age 23

The Braves top outfield prospect is a leadoff hitter in the making. He has a patient approach, decent contact skills, and the confidence to work the count. His carrying tool is elite 80 grade speed. He won't challenge a healthy Billy Hamilton for the stolen base crown, but he could easily finish second. He swiped 57 bags in 2015 and 92 bases in 2014.

His speed allowed him to BABIP the lower levels to death, but Triple-A offered a serious challenge. He posted a sane .332 BABIP in Triple-A compared to a .412 BABIP in Double-A. That could be "luck" or a reflection of superior defenses. He'll find the majors even more difficult.

We've seen in recent years that it doesn't take much baseball skill for elite speed to work. Dee Gordon took a while to adjust to the majors. Once he did, he became a top fantasy asset. Billy Burns had his warts, but he was still quite valuable last year. Hamilton is the extreme example with his gaudy steals total and utter lack of on base ability. Smith seems to have the necessary skills to guarantee a major league floor with fantasy value. The worst case scenario looks something like Jarrod Dyson.

28. Socrates Brito (OF, ARI, AA)
Stats: 522 PA, .300/.339/.451 9  HR, 20 SB, 16.1% K rate, 5.6% BB rate
Age 23

The Diamondbacks starting outfield is set for now, but an injury could open the door for Brito. He received a 34 plate appearance trial last year with some success. Moreover, there just isn't any depth behind A.J. Pollock, David Peralta, and Yasmany Tomas. Brito may need to serve as the fourth outfielder even though that could negatively affect his development.

Brito isn't particularly powerful. If he played full time in 2016, he might not reach 10 home runs. His ceiling is somewhere around 15 big flies. While he's not a burner, he does have above average wheels - 20 stolen bases wouldn't shock anybody. With an impatient approach and possible contact problems against top-of-the-line pitching, expect to wait a few years before Brito is a regular asset.

29. Brandon Nimmo (OF, NYM, AAA)
Stats: 112 PA, .264/.393/.418, 3 HR, 5 SB, 17.9% K rate, 16.1% BB rate
Age 23

Nimmo's future as a major league outfielder is subject to open debate. I'm sure you can pick out the elite skill - it's his plate discipline. He consistently posts walk rates in the mid-teens. His strikeout rates are tolerable too.

There's a subtle difference between being patient and passive at the plate, and Nimmo may stray in the wrong direction. In the upper levels, a passive approach can leave a hitter permanently behind in the count. It's difficult to post a quality batting line when always protecting against sharp breaking balls.

As a hitter, Nimmo is described as line drive oriented with little current power projection. He could sudden discover pop later in his career, but he won't help your fantasy team much in the interim. If you're not in an OBP league, Nimmo's next few years aren't really worth targeting.

30. Harold Ramirez (OF, PIT, A+)
Stats: 344 PA, .337/.399/.458 4 HR, 22 SB, 14% K rate, 7.3% BB rate
Age 21

Ramirez draws praise for pure hitting ability. Despite good speed, he may be destined for left field duties due to an iffy arm. There are worries his bat won't quite carry him in an outfield corner. The Pirates added him to the 40-man roster last fall to protect him in the Rule 5 draft. As such, he could see a short call up this year.

High contact rates and above average speed offer the potential for solid fantasy production. He hasn't hit for much power as a professional. Scouts think he could eventually top out around 10 to 15 home runs a year.

Like Meadows, he'll open the year in Double-A. It'll be a good test of his hitting ability. A spike in strikeout rate will be an early sign to sell high.

31. Billy McKinney (OF, CHC, AA)
Stats: 308 PA, .285/.346/.420 3 HR, 0 SB, 15.3% K rate, 8.8% BB rate
Age 21

Surely the Cubs don't have more top prospects, right? McKinney's hit tool and plate discipline have carried him in his first three minor league campaigns. He doesn't have much power or speed giving him a fantasy ceiling similar to Joe Panik. To get there, he'll need to maintain his high contact rates. You'll be reliant on a top of the order role to create valuable run production.

McKinney doesn't really fit with his current organization - at least not as a starter. Some scouts wonder if he might not be a future fourth outfielder. If he hangs around Chicago, that's almost certainly his destiny. He's an obvious trade candidate.

32. Eddy Julio Martinez (OF, CHC, DNP)
Stats: Did Not Play
Age 21

A top international prospect from Cuba, Martinez is expected to be a fast mover despite a lack of professional experience. The 21-year-old is a five tool athlete with early comparisons to Andruw Jones. He's a high risk, high reward target for fantasy owners.

The available scouting reports are glowing, but he signed for only $3MM with the Cubs. That's comparable to the bonuses for the top Dominican and Venezuelan prospects, but they're often just 16 years old with very uncertain futures. Top Cubans typically earn much more despite international spending penalties. To me, that makes it sound like we're only reading the most glowing scouting reports. Keep an eye on his debut.

33. Eloy Jimenez (OF, CHC, A-)
Stats: 250 PA, .284/.328/.418 7 HR, 3 SB, 17.2% K rate, 6.0% BB rate
Age 19

A former top international prospect, Jimenez is still a long way from the majors. As such, he's still mostly projection. His contact oriented approach will play well throughout the lower minors, but he does need to start showing some in-game power.

Jimenez could be a future top prospect or a something a little more ordinary like McKinney. Since he's so far from the majors, he's only a top target for true dynasty formats - i.e. 20 teams and 40+ man rosters.

34. Lazaro Armenteros (OF, Unsigned, DNP)
Stats: Did Not Play
Age 16

The Lazarito hype train was going full bore for a time, but it's beginning to slow down. There has been some drama between his former U.S.-based agent and Dominican-based buscone. Meanwhile, scouting reports have grown considerably less glowing. He's still one of the top 16 year olds in the world, but he doesn't quite stand up to guys like Guerrero and Kevin Maitan.

35. D.J. Stewart (OF, BAL, A-)
Stats: 268 PA, .218/.288/.345 6 HR, 4 SB, 19.4% K rate, 8.6% BB rate
Age 22

Stewart was the Orioles top draft pick at 25th overall. Scouting reports are mixed with some calling him a first baseman or DH. He's credited with good plate discipline and power from the left side - a good fit for Camden Yards. In his prime, he's expected to post a strong average, power, and draw plenty of walks.

For now, I'll defer to the scouting reports. His professional debut certainly was lackluster. Something about the profile reminds me of Brett Wallace, although Wallace never tripped up until he reached the majors.

 

36. Hunter Renfroe (OF, SDP, AAA)
Stats: 95 PA, .333/358/633 6 HR, 1 SB, 21.1% K rate, 4.2% BB rate
Age 24

Of the division's top prospects, Renfroe is nearest to the majors. Another well-rounded athlete, Renfroe's above average speed doesn't play on the bases. He'll probably soon have below average wheels as he ages. Power is the centerpiece of his profile with two straight 20 home run campaigns.

Renfroe was merely decent for most of the season at Double-A. Upon arriving in Triple-A, he went on a power binge. His walk rate took a big step backwards last year, but it's encouraging to know he's shown patience in the past. As with Margot, keep an eye on Jay and Upton. If they struggle, Renfroe should be the first call.

37. Tyler Goeddel (OF, PHI, AA)
Stats: 533 PA, .279/.350/.433, 12 HR, 28 SB, 18.4% K rate, 9% BB rate
Age 23

Goeddel, a former first round pick of the Rays, was selected by the Phillies in the most recent Rule 5 draft. The club proved last year they weren't afraid to use a Rule 5 guy in an everyday role. Odubel Herrera actually turned out to be the best player on the roster (at least once Hamels was traded). For a second consecutive year, there's a chance a Rule 5 player will start for the Phillies.

Goeddel has two competitors for two spots - Peter Bourjos and Aaron Altherr. They're both favorites to earn corner outfield roles, but neither has a job on lock down. Goeddel can sneak ahead of either player at any time during the spring or early summer.

If he does find reps, he has an intriguing combination of of power and speed. Goeddel isn't considered to be completely big league ready so there will be some rough patches in his offensive game. While scouts don't think contact will be a problem long term, it could be in 2016. That would make him look something like the 2015 version of Steven Souza with the power and speed flipped. Say, 10 home runs and 15 stolen bases over 450 plate appearances.

With Philadelphia's minor league outfield depth, Goeddel won't have a long time to firmly establish himself. By mid-2017, he could be too far down the depth chart to carve out a regular role. He'll have to make good on his early chances. As such, he's a high risk, high reward pick for dynasty owners.

38. Roman Quinn (OF, PHI, AA)
Stats: 257 PA, .306/.356/.435, 4 HR, 29 SB, 16.3% K rate, 7% BB rate
Age 22

Quinn is somewhat like Smith, except he's farther from the majors and rarely healthy. He doesn't grind his at bats as well as Smith, and there are more contact issues with his bat. Since he has a spot on the 40-man roster, Quinn should be one of the next Phillies prospects to get the call - ahead of Williams and all the others (except Sweeney).

He has the same 80 grade speed as Smith, but he hits more fly balls. That's a double-edged sword for fantasy owners. Quinn has some modest power upside - perhaps a future of 10 to 15 home runs annually, but he also won't post the high BABIPs of a player like Gordon. The result will be a lower average and OBP than you'd like to see from an elite burner.

The tools could come together to form a fantasy monster. More likely, he'll either struggle to transition to the upper levels or suffer more injuries. He's a high variance target.

39. Adam Engel (OF, CWS, A+)
Stats: 608 PA, .251/.335/.369, 7 HR, 65 SB, 21.7% K rate, 10.2% BB rate
Age 24

There is plenty wrong with Engel as a prospect, in particular he has very little power and suspect contact skills. Those problems are offset by improving plate discipline and 70 grade speed. The overall profile reminds me of Billy Burns, and he's sneaky valuable in a dynasty setting.

Engel is far from a finished product who figures to be better in the real world than fantasy. He looks like an above average defensive center fielder which should make it easier for him to reach the majors. As a fantasy owner, you may need to wait through some growing pains at the plate before he's a consistent positive asset. Until, use him only for his stolen bases.

He's been old for his levels. Expect him to open the season in Double-A after a fantastic stint in the AFL (216 wRC+). He could reach the majors by the end of the season. There's also a chance he never quite makes it.

40. Ronald Washington (OF, Unsigned, DNP)
Stats: Did Not Play
Age 16

The son of the former Rangers manager is perhaps the top U.S.-based outfield prospect. Reports are limited for now, but he's expected to pair plus speed with sound batting skills. If you wanted more detail, I don't have it yet.

41. Wynton Bernard (OF, DET, AA)
Stats: 587 PA, .301/.352/408 4 HR, 43 SB, 12.4% K rate, 6.5% BB rate
Age 25

Like Engel, you really don't see many people talking about Bernard. Most of that relates to his age and level, but we can afford to look past that as fantasy players. He had trouble staying on the field in 2012 and 2013. Since joining the Tigers, he's run wild while showing off above average contact ability.

I honestly don't know if the contact skills will translate to the majors, but the statistical profiles massively exceeds the amount of prospect hype he receives. He's not a no-power burner either, he can lay into fastballs if he's challenged. Kiley McDaniel's scouting report mentioned a Rajai Davis comp, and I can totally see it.

 

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