Marco Gonzales (first round, 2013): He will start his first Cardinals spring training in the big league camp, a nod to his fast-rising potential. Law slots him right behind Cooney, due to “a fringy fastball but out-pitch changeup and above-average to plus curveball, and no real projection. He's very athletic but isn't going to get much stronger or add velocity.”

Lee Stoppleman (24th round, 2012): The lefthander from Central Missouri works the bottom of the strike zone with his three-quarters motion. He soared up the ladder last season, pitching for Palm Beach, Springfield and Memphis. Overall he was 6-3 with six saves, a 1.50 ERA and 78 strikeouts in 66 minor league innings. He must refine his curveball and changeup to take the final step to the big leagues, but he appears ahead of schedule.

Sam Tuivailala (third round, 2010): He may be the most intriguing pitcher in the Spring Training Early Program. He is big guy with a big arm, a converted infielder who throws high-90s heat. ESPN’s Law is intrigued enough to rank him as the team’s No. 11 prospect, noting that Tuivailala “struck out nearly a third of the guys he faced last year.” Never mind that he is 0-3 with a 5.03 ERA in 48 1/3 innings at Johnson City and Peoria. He excites the organization.