2019 Top 30 Fantasy Second Base Prospects
Second base is the land of misfit shortstops. Be they too small, too large, too weak-armed, or too immobile, these players fell down the defensive spectrum and landed at second base. However, this does not mean second base prospects cannot hit or hit for power. While second base is presently a weak fantasy position at the major league level, it is quite strong throughout the minors, with numerous potential plus hitters.
The prospect rankings schedule and a guide to fantasy tool grades can be found here. In addition, to see where the second base prospects below fall in the overall rankings, you can obtain access to the updated Top 600 Dynasty League Players with a small donation.
Before delving into the rankings, the following prospects currently receive the majority of playing time at another position, and, as such, will be on upcoming lists: Bo Bichette, Toronto Blue Jays (SS); Brendan Rodgers, Colorado Rockies (SS); Xavier Edwards, San Diego Padres (SS); Nick Gordon, Minnesota Twins (SS); Luis Garcia, Washington Nationals (SS); Gavin Lux, Los Angeles Dodgers (SS); Isaac Paredes, Detroit Tigers (SS); and Luis Rengifo, Los Angeles Angels (SS). To see where these prospects would rank among second base prospects, scroll to the bottom of the article.
Top 30 Fantasy Second Base Prospects
| Rank | Player | Primary Position | Secondary Position | Age | 2018 Level | ETA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nick Senzel CIN | 2B | 3B | 23.75 | AAA | 2019 |
| 2 | Keston Hiura MIL | 2B | - | 22.66 | A+, AA | 2019 |
| 3 | Nick Madrigal CHW | 2B | - | 22.04 | AZL, A, A+ | 2020 |
| 4 | Garrett Hampson COL | 2B | SS/OF | 24.47 | AA, AAA, MLB | - |
| 5 | Luis Urias SD | 2B | SS/3B | 21.82 | AAA, MLB | - |
| 6 | Vidal Brujan TB | 2B | - | 21.14 | A, A+ | 2020 |
| 7 | Brandon Lowe TB | 2B | OF | 24.73 | AA, AAA, MLB | - |
| 8 | Jahmai Jones LAA | 2B | - | 21.65 | A+, AA | 2020 |
| 9 | Esteury Ruiz SD | 2B | 3B | 20.12 | A | 2021 |
| 10 | Shed Long CIN | 2B | - | 23.60 | AA | 2019 |
| 11 | Isan Diaz MIA | 2B | - | 22.84 | AA, AAA | 2019 |
| 12 | Nick Solak TB | 2B | OF | 24.21 | AA | 2019 |
| 13 | Cavan Biggio TOR | 2B | 3B/1B | 23.96 | AA | 2019 |
| 14 | Jeter Downs CIN | 2B | SS | 20.67 | A | 2021 |
| 15 | Rylan Bannon BAL | 2B | 3B | 22.93 | A+, AA | 2020 |
| 16 | Kevin Kramer PIT | 2B | 3B/SS | 25.49 | AAA, MLB | - |
| 17 | Richard Palacios CLE | 2B | - | 21.87 | AZL, NYP, A | 2021 |
| 18 | Tucupita Marcano SD | 2B | SS | 19.53 | AZL, NWL | 2022 |
| 19 | Andy Young STL | 2B | 3B | 24.88 | A+, AA | 2020 |
| 20 | Ramon Urias STL | 2B | 3B/SS | 24.82 | AA, AAA | 2019 |
| 21 | Kody Clemens DET | 2B | - | 22.87 | A, A+ | 2021 |
| 22 | Yunior Severino MIN | 2B | SS | 19.49 | APP | 2022 |
| 23 | Samad Taylor TOR | 2B | - | 20.71 | A | 2021 |
| 24 | Luis Santana NYM | 2B | - | 19.69 | APP | 2022 |
| 25 | Domingo Leyba ARI | 2B | SS | 23.55 | AA | 2019 |
| 26 | Travis Blankenhorn MIN | 2B | 3B | 22.65 | A+ | 2020 |
| 27 | Carlos Cortes NYM | 2B | - | 21.74 | NYP | 2021 |
| 28 | Dawel Lugo DET | 2B | 3B | 24.24 | AAA, MLB | - |
| 29 | Eli White OAK | 2B | SS/3B | 24.76 | AA | 2019 |
| 30 | Nick Dunn STL | 2B | - | 22.16 | NYP, A | 2021 |
1. Nick Senzel, Cincinnati Reds
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B/3B | 23.75 | R/R | 2019 | 60 | 50 | 5 | 45 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| AAA | 0.310 | 0.378 | 0.509 | 171 | 6 | 8/2 | 39/19 |
The Reds drafted Nick Senzel second overall in the 2016 Draft, as a polished, quick-moving college bat. This spring, less than two years later, he was on the cusp of the majors. In fact, the Reds experimented with Senzel at shortstop during Spring Training in an effort to accelerate his timeline. Instead, during the season, he saw the majority of his playing time at second base (63.5%). In addition, despite a mid-April injury to Eugenio Suarez, Senzel did not receive a promotion to fill-in at third base. Thereafter, he missed most of May with vertigo, which Dr. Mike Tanner notes could be a chronic problem, and suffered a torn tendon in his right index finger in late-June, requiring season-ending surgery.
Prior to his final injury, Senzel was not just beating on the door for a promotion, he was breaking it down. Over his last 11 games, he had 9 multi-hit games, going 22-for-50 (.440/.462/.720). With little left to prove in the minors, he is ready to showcase his potentially elite bat in the majors. At the plate, Senzel is a gap-to-gap, line-drive hitter with an exceptional feel to hit. Indeed, he often receives 70-grades for his hit tool. Further, Senzel possesses above-average raw power, which likely plays down slightly in games due to a doubles-over-homers approach. On the bases, he is aggressive and instinctual, making the most of his above-average speed.
In the field, Senzel is a Swiss Army knife, able to play just about anywhere. Most recently, he made appearances in center field during instructs. Despite playing third base for most of his career, Senzel is least likely to play there long-term, as Eugenio Suarez is under contract through 2024. Meanwhile, Jose Peraza laid claim to shortstop with a breakout season, and Scooter Gennett is in the last year of arbitration. Given the crowded Reds infield and outfield, it is unclear how Senzel fits in the short-term. Expect an offseason trade (likely Gennett) to open a path to playing time for Senzel.
Peak Projection: .300/.370/.485, 20-25 home runs, 10-15 stolen bases
2. Keston Hiura, Milwaukee Brewers
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B | 22.66 | R/R | 2019 | 65 | 50 | 0 | 45 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| A+/AA | 0.293 | 0.357 | 0.464 | 485 | 13 | 15/11 | 103/36 |
Despite concerns regarding his arm health (discussed below), the Brewers selected Keston Hiura ninth overall in the 2017 Draft on the strength of his bat. Following a slow start this year while limited to designated hitter (.185/.250/.277 over his first 16 games), he caught fire, obliterating High- and Double-A through late-June (.372/.427/.633). For the rest of the season, however, Hiura struggled, likely due to exhaustion in his first full season. After a month to regroup, he participated in the Arizona Fall League, where he again dominated (.323/.371/.563), earning MVP honors.
Like Senzel, Hiura is a line-drive hitter with a lightning-quick bat and elite barrel-control. As such, he regularly delivers hard contact, and exhibits above-average raw power, to all fields. Occasionally, Hiura is too aggressive and expands the zone given his excellent bat-to-ball ability, resulting in some swing-and-miss and less-ideal contact. An aggressive base runner despite average speed, Hiura was 22-for-35 in stolen base attempts (62.9%) in all competitions.
In the field is where the similarities between Senzel and Hiura end. Defensively, Hiura remains an enigma due to lingering concerns regarding his arm health and strength. During his sophomore year, Hiura suffered a sprained ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, and re-aggravated the injury the next fall. This April, nearly two years later, Hiura began the season limited to designated hitter. Although he played 79 games at second base this year, questions regarding his defensive home and potential surgery persist. Regardless, Hiura should continue to receive playing time at the keystone, and potential debut there as soon as mid-season.
Peak Projection: .310/.375/.490, 20-25 home runs
3. Nick Madrigal, Chicago White Sox
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B | 22.66 | R/R | 2020 | 70 | 35 | 10 | 40 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| AZL/A/A+ | 0.303 | 0.353 | 0.348 | 155 | 0 | 8/6 | 5/7 |
The diminutive 5’7″ and 165-pound Nick Madrigal was the fourth overall pick in the 2018 Draft. Lauded as a pure hitter, he employs an extreme high-contact approach with elite bat-to-ball ability. In fact, he struck out just 12 times in 374 plate appearances (3.2%) between college and his debut. Further, in High-A Carolina League, his swinging strike percentage was just 3.8%! Most importantly, his contact is not punchless, as he makes consistent hard, line-drive contact to just about any part of the ballpark. In addition to his excellent hit tool, he is a plus (or better) runner with rapid acceleration, which bodes well on the base paths.
With that said, Madrigal has minimal power, tallying just 8 home runs across 688 college plate appearances, and 0 home runs in his debut. Of course, during his debut, he likely was still recovering from the aftermath of a fractured left wrist suffered in February, sapping his power. Some observers even grade his future game power as high as league average due to his exceptional hit tool. However, his high-contact approach mostly generates line-drives and ground balls, and his power plays more to the gaps than over-the-fence. Consequently, Madrigal likely will provide only limited slugging and home run output. Nevertheless, his advanced bat, superb speed, and instincts provide a high floor with an All-Star ceiling.
Announced as a shortstop, Madrigal played almost exclusively at second base in his professional debut. There, he is a potential plus defender, with excellent range, polished actions, and smooth and quick hands. Although some defensive ingredients exist to profile at shortstop, his average-to-below arm strength does not.
Peak Projection: .320/.380/.425, 5-10 home runs, 20-25 stolen bases
4. Garrett Hampson, Colorado Rockies
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B/SS/OF | 24.47 | R/R | - | 60 | 35 | 15 | 45 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| AA/AAA | 0.311 | 0.382 | 0.462 | 444 | 10 | 36/5 | 75/51 |
| MLB | 0.275 | 0.396 | 0.400 | 40 | 0 | 2/0 | 12/7 |
As of now, Garrett Hampson likely is the starting second basemen for the Rockies next year. Notably, the Rockies did not extend a qualifying offer to D.J. LeMahieu. This makes him a free agent without the specter of draft-pick compensation for the signing team. Consequently, it appears the Rockies intend to hand the job the Hampson.
A 2016 third round pick, Hampson has quickly moved through the minors. In fact, he is the highest drafted hitter from the 2016 Draft to debut in the majors. His rapid ascension is due to a plus hit tool, double-plus speed, and defensive versatility. At the plate, Hampson employs a disciplined, high-contact approach, geared to get on base and take advantage of his elite speed. Despite creating mostly low, hard contact with only modest raw power, he can occasionally lift balls to the pull-side for home runs. His carrying tool, however, is his game-changing speed. In his brief career, he already amassed 125 stolen bases with an impressive 84.5% success rate, including 38 stolen bases last year (88.4%). All told, Hampson profiles as an ideal leadoff hitter, and a potential fantasy darling, especially if he runs into some thin air aided home runs.
Peak Projection: .300/.380/.410, 5-10 home runs, 30-35 stolen bases
5. Luis Urias, San Diego Padres
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B/SS/3B | 21.82 | R/R | - | 65 | 40 | 0 | 45 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| AAA | 0.296 | 0.398 | 0.447 | 450 | 8 | 2/1 | 109/67 |
| MLB | 0.208 | 0.264 | 0.354 | 48 | 2 | 1/0 | 10/3 |
To start the year, Luis Urias was easily the youngest player in Triple-A Pacific Coast League at just 20 years old. Despite his youth, he still managed to outperform most of the league (127 wRC+). Interestingly, he nearly duplicated his 2017 performance in Double-A, with identical batting and on-base averages (.296/.398), while hitting for more power. Not until August, though, did Urias truly take off. During the month, he hit .420/.480/.659 with 15 extra-base hits, including a 15-game hitting streak only broken by his promotion to the majors. Unfortunately, a hamstring injury limited his debut to just 12 games.
A professional hitter, Urias possesses elite bat-to-ball ability, advanced plate discipline, and outstanding pitch recognition. As such, he should consistently produce high batting and on-base averages. Meanwhile, Urias is beginning to tap into his borderline-average raw power. Notably, he surpassed his previous career home run output (9 home runs over 1,530 career plate appearances). Although his batted ball profile remained the same, his home run-to-fly ball rate tripled from 3.1% in 2017 to 9.3% in 2018. Whether Urias will provide enough power and speed to be more than an empty, high-average hitter remains to be seen. Regardless, he is a high-floor fantasy asset and should receive significant playing time in the majors as soon as April 2019.
Peak Projection: .315/.405/.440, 10-15 home runs
6. Vidal Brujan, Tampa Bay Rays
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B | 21.14 | S/R | 2020 | 60 | 35 | 15 | 40 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| A/A+ | 0.320 | 0.403 | 0.459 | 475 | 9 | 55/19 | 68/63 |
This year, Vidal Brujan debuted in full-season ball, after a strong showing in the New York-Penn League last year (.285/.378/.415). His performance exceeded all expectations. Following a slow start (.234/.338/.297 over his first 32 games), Brujan was exceptional. For the rest of the year in Low-A, he was dominant (.353/.418/.494), and even better upon his promotion to High-A (.347/.434/.582). During a 27-game stretch between Low- and High-A in July and August, Brujan posted bonkers video game numbers. During that period, he was 46-for-101 with 4 home runs, 18 stolen bases, and an 11-to-20 strikeout-to-walk ratio (.455/.548/.752).
Understandably, there is a lot to like about his performance. Most notably, Brujan possesses double-plus speed, with sub-4 second times from home-to-first. Further, he is an aggressive base runner, stealing 55 bases this year (74.3%). At the plate, Brujan has superb bat control and an aggressive approach. As such, he limits strikeouts (12.4%) and swinging strikes (6.5%). Although he is aggressive, he has advanced plate discipline, leading to a 68-to-63 strikeout-to-walk ratio. A switch-hitter, Brujan has displayed little game power from the right-side (0 home runs and .044 ISO). In addition, his power plays exclusively to the pull-side, and his pint-sized frame (5’9″ and 155 pounds) does not generate much raw power. In the era of diminutive mashers, it is not out of the realm of possibilities he knocks double-digit home runs. Regardless, Brujan’s speed and hit tool alone make him a potential fantasy gem.
Peak Projection: .290/.360/.400, 5-10 home runs, 30-35 stolen bases
7. Brandon Lowe, Tampa Bay Rays
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B/OF | 24.73 | L/R | - | 50 | 55 | 0 | 45 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| AA/AAA | 0.297 | 0.391 | 0.558 | 380 | 22 | 8/3 | 102/57 |
| MLB | 0.233 | 0.324 | 0.450 | 129 | 6 | 2/1 | 38/16 |
The Rays drafted Brandon Lowe in the third round of the 2015 Draft on the strength of his bat. Following successive major leg injuries in college, his mobility and defensive home were uncertain. All remain true today. This year, Lowe enjoyed a breakout season, finding little resistance in the upper minors and performing well in his major league debut. Indeed, after a sluggish 0-for-19 start, he slashed .273/.357/.527 with 6 home runs. Since he came two at-bats short of exceeding rookie limits, he remains prospect-eligible.
Offensively, Lowe stands out for his patient, all-fields approach. Notably, he has tallied double-digits walk rates throughout his career (13.4% in 2016, 12.8% in 2017, and 12.3% in 2018). Utilizing a sweet, leveraged swing, Lowe fully taps into his above-average raw power. Consequently, he creates plenty of hard, lofted contact to all fields. On the downside, he does suffer some swing-and-miss, including a swinging strike rate of 17.6% in the majors. Given his contact issues, Lowe is unlikely to hit for a high batting average. Meanwhile, he is a below-average defender with poor range and arm strength. Nevertheless, he has enough offensive upside to forgive his defensive limitations. With a crowded Rays roster, it is unclear where Lowe will fit. As he has nothing left to prove in the minors, expect the Rays to find a way to get his bat in the lineup.
Peak Projection: .270/.360/.470, 25-30 home runs
8. Jahmai Jones, Los Angeles Angels
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B | 21.65 | R/R | 2020 | 55 | 45 | 10 | 40 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| A+/AA | 0.239 | 0.337 | 0.380 | 482 | 10 | 24/4 | 114/67 |
This season was a developmental, learning year for Jahmai Jones. In early April, the Angels announced he would fully transition to second base. Of course, Jones is understandably raw, and, as such, committed 26 errors (94.6% fielding percentage). Given his makeup and athleticism (he was a two-sport star in high school), however, he should develop into a solid defensive second baseman.
At the plate, Jones struggled for much of the year, likely due, in part, to his defensive upheaval. Even so, he still performed as a league average hitter in High- and Double-A at just 20 years old for most of the season. Despite his youth, Jones has a mature approach, displaying excellent plate discipline and patience. Further, his plus bat speed and strength generate average-to-above raw power, which plays down in games due to a level swing. Jones is also a plus runner and a noted hustler with advanced instincts. The whole package should enable him to contribute in all five fantasy categories.
Peak Projection: .275/.350/.425, 15-20 home runs, 20-25 stolen bases
9. Esteury Ruiz, San Diego Padres
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B/3B | 20.12 | R/R | 2021 | 50 | 55 | 10 | 35 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| A | 0.253 | 0.324 | 0.403 | 439 | 12 | 49/11 | 141/38 |
The Padres quietly acquired Esteury Ruiz from the Royals in July 2017 for Trevor Cahill. A wiry athlete, Ruiz has a quick, powerful bat and ample speed. Given his frame, batting stance, and offensive/defensive outlook, he repeatedly draws comparisons to Alfonso Soriano. Like Soriano, Ruiz is an aggressive, instinctual base runner, allowing his above-average speed to play up. In addition, he is a similarly aggressive, free swinger at the plate, leading to tons of swing-and-miss (28.6% strikeouts and 16.8% swinging strikes). Ruiz also projects to develop nearly as much raw power, which some project to plus. Unfortunately, he also has similar deficiencies in the field, as evidenced by 25 errors between second and third base (92.1% fielding percentage). Although the risk is high, Ruiz has significant five-category, Sorianian upside.
Peak Projection: .260/.320/.460, 25-30 home runs, 20-25 stolen bases
10. Shed Long, Cincinnati Reds
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B | 23.60 | L/R | 2019 | 50 | 50 | 5 | 40 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| AA | 0.261 | 0.353 | 0.412 | 452 | 12 | 19/6 | 123/57 |
The Reds drafted Shed Long over five years ago as a catcher. Since then, it has been a slow ascent through the minors, including a return to Double-A this year. Further, despite being on the 40-man roster, Long did not receive a promotion in September. Instead, the Reds sent him to the Arizona Fall League, where he struggled (.241/.333/.310). Moving forward, a crowded Reds infield (described above) clouds his short- and long-term outlook.
Standing at just 5’8″, Long possesses plus bat speed, generating surprising, average-to-above raw power to all fields. A level swing plane, however, limits his power in games, resulting in too few fly balls (26.9%). In addition to the pop, Long is a polished hitter, exhibiting patience, plate discipline, and all-fields hard contact. At times, however, he can struggle with contact (23.6% strikeouts and 13.7% swinging strikes). Long also has above-average speed, and should chip in double-digit stolen bases. With average-to-above tools across the board, he profiles as a solid fantasy second baseman, and likely debuts next year.
Peak Projection: .265/.335/.435, 20-25 home runs, 10-15 stolen bases
11. Isan Diaz, Miami Marlins
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B | 22.84 | L/R | 2019 | 45 | 55 | 0 | 45 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| AA/AAA | 0.232 | 0.34 | 0.399 | 431 | 13 | 14/3 | 140/68 |
A three-true-outcomes hitter, Isan Diaz walks (13.3%), strikes out (27.4%), or homers (11.8% HR/FB). Although the home runs are lacking, he possesses plus raw power, and can truly launch the ball. Further, the troubling strikeout totals (140) are more due to his late-count approach than swing-and-miss issues. With a rare power/patience profile at second base, Diaz has sizable upside, especially in on-base percentage leagues. Meanwhile, the Marlins just added him to the 40-man roster. As such, he should debut at some point next year. .
Peak Projection: .250/.340/.450, 25-30 home runs
12. Nick Solak, Tampa Bay Rays
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B/OF | 24.21 | R/R | 2019 | 50 | 45 | 10 | 40 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| AA | 0.282 | 0.384 | 0.450 | 478 | 19 | 21/6 | 112/68 |
Last year, I described Nick Solak as an underappreciated hitter. Apparently, the Rays had similar thoughts, trading Steven Souza in a three-team trade for Solak and Anthony Banda. Following the trade, Solak briefly formed a lethal tandem at second base with Brandon Lowe. Through May, he even kept pace with Lowe, hitting .315/.425/.503 with 7 home runs and 7 stolen bases. While Lowe remained on a tear all year, Solak slowed. Regardless, he continues to outperform expectations. Specifically, Solak is hitting for far more power than expected, including an impressive 16.8% home run-to-fly ball rate this year. However, he is most known for his advanced hit tool, buoyed by solid plate discipline, and plus speed.
Peak Projection: .270/.340/.430, 15-20 home runs, 20-25 stolen bases
13. Cavan Biggio, Toronto Blue Jays
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B/3B/1B | 23.96 | L/R | 2019 | 45 | 55 | 0 | 40 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| AA | 0.252 | 0.388 | 0.499 | 449 | 26 | 20/8 | 148/100 |
In the 90’s, a lineup including names like Biggio, Guerrero, and Bichette would be formidable. For most of the year, the next generation occupied the heart of the lineup for Double-A New Hampshire. While Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette entered the season as top prospects, Cavan Biggio was an afterthought. The son of Hall of Famer Craig Biggio, however, shined in the spotlight. In his first 50 games, Cavan hit .307/.431/.645 with 13 home runs. Although he understandably slowed, hitting just .195 and .181 in June and July, respectively, he still impressed. Given his pull-heavy (51%), fly ball-heavy (49.5%), and late-count approach, he is unlikely to hit for much batting average. With that said, he is a burgeoning three-true-outcomes slugger, with above-average power (17.1% HR/FB) and superb patience (17.8% BB%). Further, Cavan has some defensive versatility, with playing time at first, second, and third base.
Peak Projection: .245/.345/.440, 25-30 home runs
14. Jeter Downs, Cincinnati Reds
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B/SS | 20.67 | R/R | 2021 | 50 | 45 | 5 | 40 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| A | 0.257 | 0.351 | 0.402 | 455 | 13 | 37/10 | 103/52 |
Named after a certain 14-time All-Star shortstop, Jeter Downs is quite the ballplayer himself. At just 19 years old, he held his own in Low-A Midwest League this year. Given his plus bat speed and feel to hit, most observers project Downs to develop into an above-average-to-plus hitter. Currently, his approach is fly ball-heavy (50.4%), which restricts his hitting ability as his raw power is still developing and only to the pull-side. Despite stealing 37 bases, Downs has only average speed, which plays up due to his instincts and aggression. In the field, he is already transitioning to second base, although drafted as a shortstop.
Peak Projection: .270/.350/.425, 15-20 home runs, 10-15 stolen bases
15. Rylan Bannon, Baltimore Orioles
| Position | Age | Hit/Throw | ETA | Hit | Power | Speed | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2B/3B | 22.93 | R/R | 2020 | 50 | 45 | 0 | 40 |
| 2018 Stats | AVG | OBP | SLG | AB | HR | SB/CS | K/BB |
| A+/AA | 0.275 | 0.389 | 0.507 | 436 | 22 | 4/4 | 127/81 |
The Orioles acquired Rylan Bannon from the Dodgers as part of the package for Manny Machado. Prior to the trade, he was having a huge season in the hitter-friendly High-A California League, hitting .296/.402/.559 with 20 home runs. In addition, Bannon played primarily at third base, where he struggled, committing 15 errors (90.1% fielding percentage). Interestingly, his defensive ability was his calling card out of college. In fact, Baseball America described Bannon as a “plus defender at third base.” Following the trade, the Orioles promoted him to Double-A and moved him fully to second base. In Double-A Eastern League, Bannon came back to Earth (.204/.344/.327). His true talent likely lies somewhere in between. Ideally, he is another three-true-outcomes slugger with defensive versatility (15.4% BB%, 24.2% K%, and 16.3% HR/FB), similar to Cavan Biggio.
Peak Projection: .260/.350/.420, 15-20 home runs
The Best of the Rest
2019 Second Base Prospect Sleepers
The following prospects may rise significantly with strong showings in 2019. Each has immense upside, but each is also years away from the majors.
Tucupita Marcano, San Diego Padres. Easily the top performing hitter in the Arizona League, Marcano paced the league in batting average by 40 points and on-base percentage by 60 (.395/.497/.444)! In addition, he continued to hit following a promotion to the Northwest League (.314/.355/.429). Between the two levels, he had a stellar 16-to-30 strikeout-to-walk ratio. While he has only nominal power, Marcano is a potential plus hitter with plus speed.
Yunior Severino, Minnesota Twins. The Braves originally signed Severino for $1.9 million during the ill-fated 2016 international signing period. Due to MLB’s punishment, he became a free agent and, subsequently, signed with the Twins for $2.5 million in December 2017. Severino possesses elite bat speed, generating plus raw power, as evidenced by a 21.6% home run-to-fly ball ratio this year. However, his present approach limits his game power and he remains raw at the plate.
Samad Taylor, Toronto Blue Jays. The Blue Jays quietly acquired Samad Taylor at the 2017 trade deadline for Joe Smith. In his full-season debut, he held his own as a league-average hitter in Low-A Midwest League. Notably, he went wild on the bases, stealing 44 bases (73.3%), while also hitting for some power (.159 ISO). A poor .270 batting average on balls in play dampened his overall performance (.228/.319/.387). Solid plate discipline, speed, and some pop make Taylor an intriguing potential breakout candidate.
Luis Santana, New York Mets. In his stateside debut, Santana impressed in the Appalachian League, hitting .348/.446/.471 with a 23-to-27 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Although he is a potential plus hitter, he lacks much power, speed, defensive ability, or projection (maxed out 5’8″ and 175 pounds).
Close to the Show: 40-Man Roster Second Base Prospects
Expect several of the following players to see time in the majors this year. Injuries or under-performance at the major league level could elevate several to starting jobs.
Kevin Kramer, Pittsburgh Pirates. In his major league debut, Kramer was an empty 5-for-37 with 20 strikeouts (50%!). Although this disastrous performance was a terrible first impression, he enjoyed a strong season in Triple-A (.311/.365/.492). In fact, Kramer was on a tear prior to his promotion, hitting .348/.393/.539 over his last 81 games. The one blight on his excellent season was some slightly concerning swing-and-miss (24.1% strikeouts and 13.1% swinging strikes). With little left to prove in Triple-A, Kramer could receive regular playing time at some point next year.
Ramon Urias, St. Louis Cardinals. The older brother of Luis Urias (above), Ramon spent the past five years in the Mexican League. The Cardinals scooped him up this offseason after he experienced a power outburst last year (.340/.433/.577). This year, Urias bounced between Double- and Triple-A, hitting .300/.356/.516 and receiving playing time throughout the infield. Ultimately, he likely serves as a bat-first utility infielder, but the bat is quite good.
Domingo Leyba, Arizona Diamondbacks. A shoulder injury sidelined Leyba for most of 2017 and the beginning of this year. When healthy, he flashes an above-average hit tool, characterized by a disciplined, high-contact approach.
Dawel Lugo, Detroit Tigers. The Tigers acquired Lugo as the centerpiece of the J.D. Martinez trade in July 2017. The raw ingredients are here for a solid big leaguer, with an average hit tool, borderline-average power, and solid defense. An overly aggressive approach (2.6% BB%) currently holds him back.
Close to the Show: High-A and Above Second Base Prospects
The road for prospects is long and winding. These prospects are one step closer, already reaching High-A, and in some cases, beyond.
Andy Young, St. Louis Cardinals. A 37th round pick in the 2016 Draft, Young is a huge success story. This year, he performed well in High-A Florida State League (.276/.372/.444) before dominating Double-A upon promotion (.319/.395/.556). A bat-first prospect, Young has above-average raw power with a leveraged swing to get to it in games. Interestingly, he is often hit-by-pitch, with 27 this year and 58 in his career (4.8%). Young could be next in a long line of older prospect breakouts for the Cardinals.
Travis Blankenhorn, Minnesota Twins. After a strong start in High-A Florida State League (.302/.341/.558 through May 1st), Blankenhorn collapsed. For the rest of the year, he hit just .213/.290/.346. Notably, he struggled with contact (25.8% strikeouts and 16.6% swinging strikes). Blankenhorn is a streaky hitter. When he is on, he employs a short, direct swing, generating all-fields power and exhibiting a patient approach. Unfortunately, he was off for most of the year.
Eli White, Oakland Athletics. A breakout prospect, White was among the top performers in Double-A Texas League. At the plate, he displays excellent discipline and a line-drive bat. Pencil thin, White only possesses nominal pull-side power. A jack-of-all-trades, he competently fields nearly every infield position and saw some time in center field. Ultimately, he profiles as a solid utility infielder.
2018 Draft Second Base Prospects
The 2018 Amateur Draft included many intriguing second base prospects, from raw high school teenagers to seasoned college bats. Here are the most interesting options.
Richard Palacios, Cleveland Indians. The brother of Blue Jays prospect Joshua Palacios, Richard was a third round pick this year. An elite college performer, he hit .301/.457/.515 with 8 home runs, 25 stolen bases, and a 16-to-52 strikeout-to-walk ratio in his junior year. Further, Palacios has a strong track record with wooden bats, most recently hitting .278/.336/.376 in the Cape Cod League. As such, it came as no surprise he dominated the lower minors in his debut (.361/.421/.538). At the plate, Palacios is a disciplined, line-drive hitter with modest power. In addition, he is an efficient, plus runner.
Kody Clemens, Detroit Tigers. The son of Roger Clemens, Kody starred for Texas, earning Big 12 Conference Player of the Year honors. A breakout performer, he scuffled during his freshman and sophomore years before launching 24 home runs in his junior year (.351/.444/.726). The power appears genuine, as he worked hard to add muscle to his projectable frame. With lauded makeup and work ethic, Clemens should outperform the sum of his parts.
Carlos Cortes, New York Mets. Another college power hitter, Cortes blasted 27 home runs in two years for South Carolina. Further, he pairs his above-average power with solid discipline and plenty of contact. During his college career in the difficult SEC, he had an excellent 59-to-65 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
Nick Dunn, St. Louis Cardinals. A well-regarded hitter, Dunn routinely receives plus grades for his hit tool. This praise is understandable, as he is a career .321/.394/.415 hitter in the Cape Cod League, and hit .330/.419/.561 with a 19-to-32 strikeout-to-walk ratio during his junior year. Other than his hit tool, he does not offer much else, with poor athleticism and below-average power.
Elsewhere-Eligible Second Base Prospects
Likely destined for second base but currently playing another position, these notable prospects will be on upcoming lists. This is where they rank as second base prospects:
Bo Bichette, Toronto Blue Jays (SS): between Senzel and Hiura
Brendan Rodgers, Colorado Rockies (SS): between Senzel and Hiura, behind Bichette
Xavier Edwards, San Diego Padres (SS): between Ruiz and Long
Luis Garcia, Washington Nationals (SS): between Ruiz and Long, behind Edwards
Nick Gordon, Minnesota Twins (SS): between Ruiz and Long, behind Edwards and Garcia
Gavin Lux, Los Angeles Dodgers (SS): between Solak and Biggio
Isaac Paredes, Detroit Tigers (SS): between Biggio and Downs
Luis Rengifo, Los Angeles Angels (SS): between Downs and Bannon
Jesse Roche's 2019 Prospect Series
Please feel free to post comments, questions, or your own observations!
Next Monday, TDG will publish the Top 40 Fantasy Third Base Prospects. Stay tuned!
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