MLB Pipeline posted a list of 12 prospects who just missed their top 100 prospect list. They had their three writers pick four players each who they felt could jump onto the top 100 list this upcoming season. In some cases, these players were in the top 100 for the writer, but got pushed off of the group list.
Jonathan Mayo selected Ke’Bryan Hayes as one of his players. He highlighted the plate approach by Hayes, along with his above average defense and 27 steals this past season. Mayo also notes that scouts feel that Hayes will eventually develop power. As we have noted numerous times, Hayes wasn’t able to workout with weights last off-season due to his back and rib injuries late in 2016. A healthy 2017-18 off-season, coupled with the move to a more hitter-friendly environment in Altoona, should lead to better power results. Hayes just turned 21 on Sunday.
MLB Pipeline had Hayes 11th for third base prospects in a strong year for the position. Eight of the top ten at the position made Pipeline’s top 100 list.
Keith Law had Hayes ranked 61st among his top 100 prospects and second among all Pirates.