Kevin Goldstein unveiled his list of the top eleven Rockies’ prospects the other day. The Rockies have a couple of blue chips but then it thins out pretty quick. Coming in at number one is their first pick from 2009, Tyler Matzek. The lefthander had a mixed season at Low-A in which he struck out a ton of guys but walked a ton too. He can bring the heat (95 mph) and the fact that he’s left handed means he’ll probably find a role with the team. Still, his advancement is going to depend on whether he can control the walks or not.
Number two is catcher Willin Rosario. This kid can mash and he posted a .552 slugging percentage at Double-A last year. His biggest problem are his knees and he needed surgery in August. If he’s healthy, he should get most of his time at Triple-A before taking over behind the plate in 2012.
Those were two five star prospects and there are no four stars. Number three is Nolan Arenado, a young third baseman who won’t turn 20 until after the season starts. He’s another masher and he put together a nice season at Low A. High A is next and he projects to be with the Dodgers in 2013. Christian Friedrich (left hander, about a year away) and Kyle Parker (outfielder, first round pick in 2010) round out the top five.
