View From the Press Box: May
By Jon Skilbeck - Contributing Writer
06/01/2006
Through May, here are a few interesting callups and position changes worth keeping an eye on.
Fausto Carmona – Carmona is young (22) and has been solid at every rung of the Indians farm system. He’s currently in the Tribe’s pen, but he’ll be carded as a swingman after starting three games earlier this year. He’s never struck a ton of guys out, so there is some question as to how much success he’ll have in the big leagues. We should have a better feel for his long term value and role after this season. He’s in the Indians bullpen now after struggling as a starter, but keep an eye on this youngster.
Michael Cuddyer – After bouncing between a variety of positions during his first few years with the Twins, Cuddyer may have found a home as the Twins’ starting RF. He’ll also be carded at 1B, and he’s hit enough to have value as a corner OF and 1B. He’ll likely slow down a bit, but it also seems likely he’ll see time at some other infield positions where an .800 to .850 OPS will look just fine. He’s over .900 as of June 4.
Cole Hamels – The jewel of the Phils’ farm system has given Philly fans a solid picture of what they can expect from him since being called up earlier this month. Outrageous Triple A numbers earned him a May callup. Two impressive starts later, he landed on the DL will a cranky shoulder. The early first round talent will deliver the goods if he can shake his persistent injury problems.
Howie Kendrick – If the minor leagues were overrun with second base prospects who can really hit, Kendrick would be nothing special. They aren’t, however, so he is. The Angels took a look at him before deciding he’d be better served getting regular ABs in Triple A. He’ll be a top 10 pick once he gets a card.
Adam Loewen – The big lefty still struggles with his command but followed up a solid World Baseball performance against Team USA with some better work in Double A. He’s been pitching out of the O’s pen and was shelled in his first tart. But he is a starter and will likely see some time in the rotation before the year is over He’s first round material for next year’s draft.
Kendry Morales – Big time Angels’ first base prospect Morales is currently filling in for big time Angels’ first base prospect Casey Kotchman. The Cuban defector is the yin to Kotchman’s yang in many ways, with lots of power but questions about his glove and on base skills. Still, he looks like a first rounder too.
Scott Spiezio – Seattle fans will be surprised to learn that the festering carcass of Scott Spiezio is getting regular time with the Cardinals and will be carded at 1B, 2B, 3B, and OF next year. As an added bonus, the long time stat head fave is also hitting a bit. He won’t be able to maintain the 900 OPS he’s posted thus far, but Spiezio’s versatility should get him 300+ ABs. He’ll be a nice role player.