There have been quite a few Reds related articles showing up lately on MLB.com/Reds.com. Jonathan Mayo has been doing his series of articles on top prospects by position. The Reds have had several players show up among the list. Devin Mesoraco came in at #5 on the catchers list.
He can hit for average and power (.302/.377/.587 in ’10) and while he still needs to work on his overall receiving, he’s got an outstanding arm (he threw out 41 percent of basestealers last season).
Billy Hamilton came in at #3 on the second basemans list.
He uses his plus-plus speed on both sides of the ball, and while he’s got the range to play short, he’s probably better suited for second base.
I am not entirely sure that I agree that he is best suited for second base over shortstop, but either position he ends up at isn’t going to matter much as his defense will be top notch.
Yonder Alonso comes in at #5 on the first basemans list.
Finally 100 percent following a hand injury, Alonso had a huge second half of 2010 after starting off the season sluggishly. By hitting .335/.415/.561 after the All-Star break, all of Alonso’s hitting tools were on display: hitting for average, power and getting on base.
Mayo goes on to note that the biggest question is where Alonso plays, given that Votto is not going anywhere at any point in the near future.
Mark Sheldon has up an article on Billy Hamilton over at Reds.com. Here is a quote from Bill Bavasi on Hamilton:
“He does all the things you want. He’s got speed and can run. He has a good arm,” Bavasi said. “He’s got the aptitude to lead off. I really believe he can be a leader. No matter the situation — on or off the field — I hope he’s someone who keeps developing, because he gets it. He’s not afraid to discuss anything at any time.”
There is also an interview up with Billy Hamilton on youtube.
Major League Baseball had its Rookie Career Development program earlier this month and Devin Mesoraco was among those who were invited to the seminar. MLB.com has up a short interview with him. You can watch it here.