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Everywhere you turn in the Phoenix metropolitan area in October and November, you’ll find an interesting prospect. If you’re already receiving this newsletter, you probably know that.
We at MLB Pipeline are keeping a spotlight on the six-week showcase circuit from Opening Day on Oct. 7 through the Championship Game on Nov. 16. We’re currently running our Fall League Overviews, sharing with you information and quotes from the prospects the 30 farm systems have sent to the desert this autumn. We also have a presence at every game across the Valley of the Sun, from Surprise in the northwest to Mesa in the southeast.
Getting to witness and share what we know and see about the best talents here is a big part of our job. There are tools galore, and that got us thinking — what would a position player look like if we combined all of their best tools into one complete package? A prospect Voltron (or Megazord, if you prefer Power Rangers), as it were.
Hit: Colt Emerson, SS, Mariners (60 grade)
The 22nd overall pick in the 2023 Draft climbed to Seattle’s top prospect ranking after an incredible start to his first full season at Single-A Modesto. Emerson batted .293 with a .440 on-base percentage while walking more times than he struck out in 40 games before being limited by injuries later on.
Power: Xavier Isaac, 1B, Rays (65)
Isaac gets an edge over other contenders for his impressive performance with wood bats in pro ball so far. He has shown great power potential with an average exit velocity comparable to some notable Major League players.
Run: Zyhir Hope, OF, Dodgers (70)
Hope is considered a potential breakout candidate this fall due to his impressive speed and range as an outfielder.
Arm: Brock Wilken ,3B Brewers (65)
Wilken’s strong arm has been instrumental in keeping him at third base despite below-average speed for his position.
Field: Edwin Arroyo ,SS Reds(60)
Arroyo’s defensive skills as a shortstop make him valuable at one of baseball’s most important positions.
That rounds out a five-tool prospect at shortstop – essentially rebuilding Witt using players spread across Arizona.