Down on the Farm - 6/23/22

Top hitter for each organization, Griff McGarry (PHI) punches out 13, Alexfri Planez (CLE) homers twice, Max Meyer (MIA) vs. Wander Franco (TB)

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Top Hitters for All 30 Organizations

Setting a minimum plate appearance threshold of 100, I took a look at the best performers for each organizations so far in 2022. A few thoughts after reviewing this list:

Gunnar Henderson (BAL) has emerged as one of the top prospects in baseball — I don’t even think it’s debatable at this point. He’s hit a combined .308/.457/.557 across two levels so far this year, showing an increased ability to hit for power while walking more than he’s striking out. I saw Henderson perform at a pre-draft workout in 2019. What stood out to me was his athleticism and the smoothness of his actions both in the field and at the plate. He was rail thin, but seemed to perform every move on the field with precision. He’s added strength as a pro, which has translated into above-average power at the plate.

Niko Kavadas (BOS) is clearly ready for the next level. He’s repeating Low-A as a 23-year-old and is hitting .283/.455/.587 (185 wRC+). It’s not like he struggled last season either, he was 77% better than the average hitter at his level. The same can be said for Emmanuel Rodriguez (MIN), who’s also likely due for a promotion sooner than later. He’s slashing .272/.492/.551 in 199 plate appearances with nine homers and 11 steals. At least ERod is still just 19-years-old. Then there is Esteury Ruiz (SD), who’s been highly impressive early this season, slashing a combined .354/.482/.624 across two levels with 13 homers and 48 stolen bases (!?). I had to double check that number, but it’s correct.