Minors experts, chime in

[red]

I agree with Hybrid totally, with the exception of Burke, who could turn into something better than average, as far as 2bs go. We'd have heard more about Burke if he hadn't went from A to AA two years ago and struggled (Astros have no hi-A affiliate). When he struggled people wrote him off; but a .300 average has been consistent with a little pop and a little speed. Doesn't strike out. His low-side is Adam Everett; his high side is Robby Alomar in his prime. I wouldn't write him off so low. If he hits second in the Astros lineup, he could be a good source of runs scored.

[hybrid]

Burke could be better then Everett when everthing is said and done. Everett's numbers weren't that good in the minors, but he has progressed a lot more in the bigs. I was with you on everything you mentioned until you said his upside was Alomar, then you totally lost me. Please tell me your not serious....

Also the Astros line up won't be that good in the future. I doubt they sign Beltran, Bagwell is almost done, and Kent will also be gone.

[hybrid]

How does one become a minors person ?

i dunno.... cos im not one. but i guess hybrid could give us a stepbystep guide on "how to become a minors person in 15 days".

lol... okay, step 1 - you need to have time and well ..... an obsession for minors league prospects.

[ny69mets86]

How about Felipe Lopez, SS, Reds? The former first round pick is still only 24 and has been hitting like crazy since being recalled in July. Just a tease, or a potential late bloomer?

[ensanimal]

what position do you see atkins ending up at? if i'm not mistaken he's at 3b right now, but the rockies have Ian Stewart coming up too, and i've heard he's the better shot at staying at 3b.

will atkins move to the of, 1b, or stay at 3b?

[ny69mets86]

With Helton locked up for ages, Baker/Stewart at 3B, maybe the OF? Castilla is only signed through this year though.

But what about Lopez?

[Bushido]

I agree with your assessments of Burke, Nady, Atkins and Phillips, but do not write off Betemit. He has found his stroke at AAA this season and is putting up some nice numbers and do not be suprised to see him as the Braves starting SS next season if Furcal becomes too expensive.

[ny69mets86]

Felipe Lopez - who nobody seems interested in commenting on - went 1-4 with a HR tonight. I remain curious about this former 1st rounder who, again, is still only 24.

[shortsavage]

How does one become a minors person ?

i dunno.... cos im not one. but i guess hybrid could give us a stepbystep guide on "how to become a minors person in 15 days".

lol... okay, step 1 - you need to have time and well ..... an obsession for minors league prospects.

Hmmmm, so it helps if your team is in rebuilding mode season after season too, right ?

[hybrid]

Ha, well lets say it doesn't hurt. Though at least they are trying to do it the right way now instead of the: Castilla, Canseco, McGriff, etc. experiment.

Actually started getting interested in minor league prospects through other teams prospects, and not the Rays.