Mound Talk

1. Daric Barton, 1B, MLB. Injuries have hindered Barton’s development but a great 2007 campaign in Triple-A has re-launched his status and elevated him to an elite status. Barton will make an impact next season at first base.
2. Jermaine Mitchell, OF, A. Mitchell is a five tool talent. After having a successful debut last year with the A’s Short Season club, Mitchell was a Midwest League All-Star and hit .288/.390/.413 with 33 extra base hits in 431 at-bats. He added 24 stolen bases in 32 attempts.
3.Trevor Cahill, RHSP, A. Cahill was drafted last year out of high school and, despite not pitching until his junior year of high school, he has quickly refined his pitching skills. In 105.1 innings he has struck out 117.
4.Luke Appert, OF/DH, AA. Appert has played second base and third base before this year and has finally landed in the outfield and as a designated hitter. Injuries are a concern.
5. Andrew Bailey, RHP, AAA. Bailey came out of nowhere after being drafted in the sixth round of the 2006 draft. He has a strong arm and a plus fastball. He needs to become more consistent.
6. Kevin Melillo, 2B, MLB. Melillo isn’t an every day player at the big league level but he does have good power and speed. He will likely become a utility infielder.
7. James Simmons, RHP, AA. Plus command but pedestrian stuff. Low upside and doesn’t have a long way to go to reach his ceiling.
8. Myron Leslie, OF, AA. Leslie moved from shortstop to the outfield this year. He’s a switch-hitter and is a good hitter. He won’t hit for much power but does bring a patient approach.
9. Richie Robnett, OF, AA. Robnett broke his hamate bone last year but repsonded very positively. His 2007 campaign showed his athleticism and power.
10. Sean Doolittle, 1B, A. Played both ways this spring while with the University of Virginia but Oakland will use him as a position player. He has good tools but none are outstanding. Should move quickly through the system.
Flier. Matt Sulentic, OF, A. Repeated levels and failed. Sulentic still has plenty of talent is is just 19 years old. He has a great pure swing and has the skills to be a top hitter.
The Oakland A’s system that has been heralded for so long is pretty empty. While there are good players and talented players in the system, there is little depth and just one top notch prospect.

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