The Athletics Community Prospect List is heating up, and the 12th spot has finally been claimed by Tommy White! But the real question is, who will be next on the list?
In a tight race for the CPL's 12th position, Tommy White, the former second-round pick, secured his place. White, a third baseman with a powerful bat, has exceeded the A's expectations on offense. His defensive skills at the hot corner are also promising, and his continued growth in this area could significantly increase his value to the team.
Introducing the newest nominee, Zane Taylor, a right-handed pitcher with a unique journey. Drafted in the fifth round last year, Taylor only pitched in one professional game before the minor league season ended, but he impressed in his brief appearance. Despite not possessing elite 'stuff', his command of the strike zone suggests he could become a reliable back-end starter.
Here's how the voting process works:
- Each voter can choose one player. The player with the most votes gets the ranked spot, while the remaining four move on to the next ballot with a new nominee.
- To nominate a player for the next round, comment 'Nomination: [Player Name]' below the official voting.
- If a prospect is traded, they are removed from the list, and all other players move up. If a new prospect is acquired, a special vote will determine their ranking.
And now, the top prospects ranked by A's fans:
- Leo De Vries (SS)
- Jamie Arnold (LHP)
- Gage Jump (LHP)
- Wei-En Lin (LHP)
- Braden Nett (RHP)
- Henry Bolte (OF)
- Johenssy Colome (SS)
- Edgar Montero (SS)
- Steven Echavarria (RHP)
- Devin Taylor (OF)
- Mason Barnett (RHP)
- Tommy White (3B)
Let's take a closer look at the current nominees:
Zane Taylor (RHP)
Expected Level: Double-A | Age: 23
2025 Stats (AAA): 0.00 ERA, 1 start, 2 IP, 4 K, 2 BB, 0 HR, 2.97 FIP
MLB Pipeline Assessment:
- Fastball: 60
- Curveball: 50
- Slider: 50
- Changeup: 55
- Control: 55
- Overall: 40
Taylor's fastball has increased in speed, reaching 92-95 mph and even touching 98. While it lacks movement, his command makes it effective. His changeup is also a standout pitch, with excellent spin manipulation.
Shotaro Morii (SS/RHP)
Expected Level: Low-A | Age: 19
2025 Stats (Rookie Affiliate): 188 PA, .258/.399/.384, 8 doubles, 1 triple, 3 HR, 27 RBI, 36 BB, 47 K, 4 SB
MLB Pipeline Assessment (Hitter):
- Hit: 50
- Power: 50
- Run: 55
- Arm: 60
- Field: 50
- Overall: 40
MLB Pipeline Assessment (Pitcher):
- Fastball: 55
- Slider: 40
- Curveball: 45
- Splitter: 50
- Control: 45
- Overall: 40
Morii is a talented two-way player. His left-handed swing is smooth and balanced, and he has impressive power. On the mound, his fastball reaches 95 mph, and he has a diverse pitch selection. The A's are excited about his potential as a two-way player, but some evaluators suggest a move to third base.
Henry Baez (RHP)
Expected Level: Triple-A | Age: 23
2025 Stats (Double-A): 2.39 ERA, 23 starts, 109 IP, 100 K, 35 BB, 3 HR, 3.19 FIP
MLB Pipeline Assessment:
- Fastball: 55
- Curveball: 55
- Changeup: 45
- Control: 50
- Overall: 45
Baez has been steadily increasing his velocity, reaching 99 mph this season. His curveball and split-change complement his fastball well. With improved control and a high ground-ball rate, he's a strong starting candidate.
Gunnar Hoglund (RHP)
Expected Level: Triple-A/Majors | Age: 26
2025 Stats (Triple-A): 2.43 ERA, 6 starts, 29 2/3 IP, 30 K, 7 BB, 3 HR, 4.17 FIP
2025 Stats (Majors): 6.40 ERA, 6 starts, 32 1/3 IP, 23 K, 11 BB, 10 HR, 6.75 FIP
MLB Pipeline Assessment:
- Fastball: 45
- Slider: 55
- Changeup: 50
- Control: 60
- Overall: 45
Hoglund, recovering from Tommy John surgery, has shown signs of regaining his former velocity. He's added a two-seamer and cutter to his arsenal. The A's hope he can become a solid rotation piece, especially with the potential development of a fourth pitch.
Cole Miller (RHP)
Expected Level: Single-A | Age: 20
2025 Stats (Single-A): 1.90 ERA, 12 starts (15 appearances), 52 IP, 45 K, 11 BB, 1 HR, 3.38 FIP
MLB Pipeline Assessment:
- Fastball: 55
- Slider: 50
- Changeup: 50
- Control: 45
- Overall: 40
Miller, a 6-foot-6 pitcher, has a promising three-pitch mix. His fastball has excellent movement, and his slider and changeup show potential. The A's are excited about his debut, and his competitiveness on the mound is a notable trait.
And this is where it gets interesting...
With such a diverse range of talents and potential, who do you think should be the next prospect on the list? Do you agree with the current rankings? Share your thoughts and let's spark some lively discussions in the comments!
