Now that all of the minor league seasons have concluded, Baseball America has begun to come out with their top prospect lists. They are currently going through each minor league league, (starting with the Gulf Coast League, which is rookie ball, and working their way up to the Independent League, which is AAA.) and naming their top 20 prospects in each league.
I'll try to keep you all updated on Orioles that have been named to the Top 20 lists for each league.
Today they started with the Gulf Coast League, and on Oriole made the list. That would be 2008 3rd Round pick L.J. Hoes, coming in at #15 on the list.
Hoes, who was drafted out of St. John's High School in the Baltimore/DC area, put up serious numbers in his 48 games in the GCL this season. He hit over .300 with an on-base percentage of .416. He also walked more often than he struck out, which is a very good sign. The only concern with Hoes' GCL numbers would be his lack of power. Hoes slugged only .390, hitting only 1 homer, 4 doubles, and 3 triples. However, as just an 18-year old right out of high school, scouts think that the power will come with age. Most think he only projects to be a 15-20 homer guy at best, but if he can hit 30 or so doubles and leg out double digit triples, he could be an offensive force. He plays seccond base, and while most scouts see him sticking there, they don't feel he is exceptional with the glove. He may have to move to the outfield eventually, but that wouldn't be until he is much closer to the majors.
When it comes to the Orioles Top Prospect list, my guess is that Hoes will fall somewhere between 12-17. He should be the second-highest rated player from the most recent draft (behind only top pick Brian Matusz.) He should be ranked slightly ahead of the next two highest rated from the '08 draft, the second rounder, outfielder Xavier Avery and the 9th rounder, pitcher Bobby Bundy.
As for where Hoes will start out next year? Who knows, really. Andy MacPhail and Dave Stockstill (the Orioles Player Development Director) have preached taking it slow with their new slew of prospects. I would guess they may just wait for Aberdeen to open up and send Hoes there in June, but most think the Orioles are pretty high on this kid. I wouldn't be shocked if they sent him to Delmarva to play second base to open the season.
Tomorrow BA announces the Top 20 in the Appalachian League, where the Orioles affiliate in Bluefield plays, but I wouldn't expect to see any Orioles listed.
Keywords: Baltimore Orioles
