Top Prospects From the 2011 MLB Futures Game
Prospectors got a glimpse at some of the top talent within the MLB farm systems last night at the Futures Game in Arizona. The team representing the USA came from behind to beat the world's top prospects 6-4 in a well-contested game. This was the 13th Futures game and Team USA has seven wins to the World Team's six.
The Futures game gives fans a look at their team's up-and-coming talent leading into the All-Star break. Though big names like Bryce Harper and Paul Goldschmidt went 0-4, there were plenty of prospects that stood out on the national stage. Here's a look at whose stock is climbing after last night's exhibition.
Grant Green (SS, USA)
Grant Green was the game's MVP, going 2-2 with two doubles and a RBI. Green was picked in the first round of the 2009 MLB draft by the Oakland A's. Critics don't think Green has the skill set to stay at shortstop or the power to occupy a corner infield spot. However, Green did show a power stroke, hitting a ball that landed just below the home run line along the outfield wall.
Key Card:
Jarred Cosart (RHP, USA)
Jarred Cosart pitched one inning and struck out two batters, giving up no hits or walks. Cosart was selected in the 38th round of the 2008 MLB draft by the Philadelphia Phillies. Cosart has battled some injuries, but appears to be back on track.
Key Card:
Jose Altuve (2B, World)
Jose Altuve played bigger than his 5' 7" listed height suggests, though he may not even be that tall. Altuve went 2-3 and looked dwarfed standing next to the towering 6' 3" Paul Goldschmidt on first base. Altuve is one of the hottest hitters in Double-A this season and is one of the few bright spots in a weak Astros farm system.
Key Card:
Carlos Martinez (RHP, World)
Carlos Martinez pitched a great inning Sunday night. He got three outs on just eleven pitches, including one strikeout. Martinez is a 2010 free agent signee from the Dominican Republic and is one of the top prospects in the St. Louis farm system. Martinez doesn't have any baseball cards yet.
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