Each year I make these predictions. Some times I am right, but mostly I am wrong. It’s not an exact science to pick out which of the guys that perform well will continue to do so, so imagine how tough it is to pick someone who perhaps hasn’t performed well will turn things around and perform well. Of course, I still like to try and make my predictions based on scouting reports and underlying statistical evidence that may suggest that someone is about to turn things around. For today I am going to only be looking at players who look to be in full season ball. I will look at guys in rookie ball when their seasons are about to get underway.
Breakout Position Prospect | Carlton Daal – Shortstop
Last season Carlton Daal didn’t see much time on the field as he spent time injured while the short seasons were going on, but did manage to appear for the final three weeks of the season with the Arizona League Reds and the Billings Mustangs. He struggled in that time, hitting just .200/.243/.214. So there is a lot of room for improvement over that performance, but it was just three weeks, so placing much stock in it isn’t the best idea ever. Daal is an athletic player who has some room to fill out still. With the tools there and getting started with everyone else I just think he could put together a good season and put himself onto the Reds prospect radar.
Other candidates: Kyle Waldrop, Ryan LaMarre and Juan Duran
Breakout Pitching Prospect | Sal Romano – Right Handed Pitcher
Sal Romano will be joining the Dayton Dragons again for his 2014 season. He struggled at times with Dayton in the 2013 season and was good at others. His first half saw a higher ERA, but better peripheral stats, while in the second half his ERA was lowered but his peripheral stats took a step backwards. Scouting wise, Romano has all of the stuff you want to see. Three pitches, large frame, downhill sinker, solid breaking stuff. The right hander just hasn’t found consistency yet. Entering his third professional season, the 20-year-old reportedly had a good spring and could be primed to finally put things together and break out.
Other candidates: Amir Garrett, Kyle McMyne and Ben Klimesh.