Baseball America released their 2012 International League top 20 list yesterday, with two Pirates prospects making the list. Starling Marte and Jeff Locke both made an appearance, and both were in the top ten. The rankings can be seen here, and scouting reports can be seen here by subscribers.
Marte was ranked the second best prospect in the league, falling only behind Matt Harvey of the Mets. Baseball America noted that he could be a star if he gets in to more hitters counts and taps in to his plus raw power. They also noticed his tendency to be too aggressive.
Locke was rated the number nine prospect in the league, one behind Jacob Turner. Baseball America noted that Locke profiles as a number four starter because he lacks a plus pitch. Locke throws his fastball in the 88-91 MPH range, touching as high as 93, and mixes in a curve, slider, and changeup.
Both players exceeded their prospect eligibility this year, so they won’t end up in the 2013 prospect rankings.
In the chat, John Manuel notes that if Gerrit Cole would have qualified, he would have topped the list.
