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By all accounts, the 2019 season was a success for the Washington Nationals organization. Winning the World Series is the goal for every single team, and a magical run in October led them to their very first championship. The roster was a well-culminated group of veterans and a few of the better products that their minor league system has provided. While the championship was undoubtedly the main goal and ultimate highlight of the season, it is also true that the club has, in my opinion, one of the worst minor league systems in the entire league.

The Nationals “win now” philosophy has contributed to the void of impact prospects in their system. By trading away prospects to acquire talent that can help right away to having late first-round picks based on overall record, the system is lacking in overall depth and talent. For the last several drafts, Washington has drafted pitchers primarily. Drafting pitchers with early-round selections is a risky proposition as the position can be tough to scout and predict surefire contributors. Because of this philosophy, the system lacks many positional players that can make an impact in the majors. Even though the entire system is ranked low, a few drafts, J2 signings, and a possible change in philosophy could quickly turn this bottom-dwelling system around.



Below each player, you will find two different lines, a stat I like, and a stat that I don’t like. The stat I like is pretty straightforward and is one that stands out when you look at the player’s 2019 season. The stat that I don’t like is one that the player needs to improve on to continue their progression. Player’s age is on Opening Day, March 26, 2020.

Prospects1500 Tiers:

Tier 1: Players with high expectations of both making the majors and playing at an All-Star level for a number of years

Tier 2: Players with an above-average expectation of making the majors and being a solid contributor

Tier 3: Players with an average expectation of making the majors and being a solid contributor

Tier 4: Players who have the potential of making the majors, or have a high likelihood of making the majors but providing minimal impact (e.g., middle reliever, low-ceiling UT guys)

Tier 5: Players who are worth keeping an eye on, but likely to never make a team’s 40-man roster



Tier 1

None



Tier 2:

1. Carter Kieboom, SS/2B

Age: 22

2019 Highest Level: MLB

Kieboom’s call up in the early part of the 2019 season was underwhelming. His response the rest of the season at AAA Fresno, though, was exactly what we wanted to see and the reason why all of the writers here at Prospects1500 still ranked him as the 13th best prospect at the end of the season. In 494 plate appearances in Fresno, he hit .303 and was able to compile an astounding .902 OPS. With the loss of Anthony Rendon in the infield, the hope is that Kieboom can break spring training this year with the 2nd or 3rd base job. Adjusting to a new position could take some time, but Kieboom’s ability to hit will hopefully provide better results than last year at the major league level.

2019 Stat I Like: .902 OPS in AAA

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 37.2 K% in 43 MLB PA

Carter Kieboom’s 2019: ✅ MLB debut

✅ Second straight Futures Game

✅ .405 OBP in the PCL It set the stage for what should be a fun 2020 for the top @Nationals prospecthttps://t.co/aFpqkkF7Un pic.twitter.com/pDWSVPtDae — Baseball America (@BaseballAmerica) November 6, 2019

Tier 3:

2. Luis Garcia, 2B/SS

Age: 19

2019 Highest Level: AA (Harrisburg)

Just 18 years old at the time, Garcia was assigned to AA Harrisburg. A very aggressive assignment saw Garcia struggle in comparison to his 2018 campaign. The bat-to-ball skills are still there, but his ability to learn the zone must improve in 2020. In 553 PA, his BB% was 3.1%, which helped contribute to an underwhelming .280 OBP. Towards the end of the season, Garcia started to pick it up, and he also performed well in the AFL, giving us a glimpse of what we want to see from Garcia. Chances are he will start the year again in AA and will still be one of the youngest players in the league. If he can get off to a good start in 2020, he can jump back into Tier 2.

2019 Stat I Like: 15.6 K%

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: .280 OBP

3. Jackson Rutledge, RHP

Age: 20

2019 Highest Level: A (Hagerstown)

Rutledge was Washington’s 1st round pick in the 2019 draft (#17 overall) and followed Washington’s strategy of selecting big arms early in drafts. Rutledge stands at 6’8″ and is an imposing figure on the mound and provides some difficult arm angles for hitters to adjust too. His fastball works in the mid 90’s and can top out at 101 mph. His slider and 12-6 curveball are considered above-average pitches while his changeup is still a work in progress. His six starts in Hagerstown were very impressive, with a 10.21 K/9 rate, 29.3 K%, and a 0.91 WHIP. One area in which Rutledge still needs to refine is his command. Lowering his 3.62 BB/9 rate will undoubtedly be a goal for 2020.

2019 Stat I Like: 0.99 WHIP in 10 Starts

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 3.6 BB/9

Jackson Rutledge warming up. pic.twitter.com/8UmQUKjthc — Dan Victor (@slydanno70) August 28, 2019

4. Wil Crowe, RHP

Age: 25

2019 Highest Level: AAA (Fresno)

With injury history hopefully behind him, Crowe had a mixed bag of results in 2019 after an impressive 2018. Crowe has an above-average fastball that sits between 92-95 MPH with a high spin rate that allows him to ride it high in the zone or to turn it into a sinker low in the zone. The spin rate on his breaking pitches is also advanced, but his best secondary pitch is his changeup. Those pitches all led to great success in Harrisburg (AA) as he pitched to a 3.05 xFIP and a 1.12 WHIP. Fresno (AAA) was a different story, and his normal quality command seemed misplaced as he posted a 4.33 BB/9 in 10 starts. Crowe pitched roughly 30 more innings in 2019 than in 2018, and some fatigue could have been the reason behind underwhelming performances at AAA. I think he starts back in Fresno (AAA) for 2020 and could see a spot start for the Nationals later in the season if he can show the ability to get AAA hitters out.

2019 Stat I Like: 3.05 xFIP in 16 AA Starts

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 1.70 WHIP in 10 AAA Starts

Wil Crowe fools Vince Fernandez with a nasty changeup. #OnePursuit pic.twitter.com/ybshcahmy3 — Ralph Lifshitz (@ProspectJesus) May 15, 2019

5. Drew Mendoza, 1B/3B

Age: 22

2019 Highest Level: A (Hagerstown)

Mendoza was the Nationals 3rd round pick in 2019 out of Florida State and had an impressive debut with Hagerstown. Mendoza played 3rd base in college but was quickly moved over to 1st as he began his professional career. He has enough athleticism that the switch to 1st was a natural fit. His best tool is his raw power, which did not show itself during his abbreviated pro season. His ISO was .119, and I would look for that number to improve as he will likely start his first full season in Advanced-A Fredericksburg (formerly Potomac). Even though Mendoza’s towering 6’4″ figure and raw power tool would suggest an all or nothing approach at the plate, he has excellent plate discipline as his BB% was 14.2, which helped net him a .377 OBP.

2019 Stat I Like: .377 OBP in 239 PA

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 6.3% HR/FB

Drew Mendoza gets the scoring started for @FSUBaseball. Goes with an outer half FB for an RBI double to the opposite field corner. Mendoza also has stupid raw and was putting balls past the scoreboard in BP. #mlbdraft pic.twitter.com/lZEHKtflub — Vinnie Cervino (@vcervinoPG) March 12, 2019

6. Andry Lara, RHP

Age: 16

2019 Highest Level: Instructional

Lara was a J2 signing in 2019 and has become a player that many scouts and baseball prospectors are excited to see develop. I think he has the highest ceiling of all the Nationals pitching prospects, and his makeup helps to pump up the hype. At 17 years old, he already has a solid pitchers frame standing at 6’4″ and weighing 210 lbs. His fastball sits between 92-95, ticking higher in some instances, and a plus power curve that acts more like a slider. A changeup is in the works and will be a pitch that will develop with more instruction. Lara has a repeatable delivery that is fluid and smooth, which will help him be able to maintain command and stamina through games. Scouts have praised his aggressive and competitive nature on the mound and see him as a potential number 1 or 2 starter. Hopefully, Lara will get to pitch some in the GCL before the 2020 season is over.

2019 Stat I Like: N/A

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: N/A

The more I read and watch Andry Lara, the excitement for his progress builds. 16 yrs old. 6’4” – 217lbs. 90-95 MPH. Effortless, repeatable delivery. Watch the nasty Slider/curve at the :40 mark @Prospects1500 #nationals #prospects pic.twitter.com/FJ6oZzZGlF — Jacob Swain (@jacob_swain3) December 15, 2019

7. Mason Denaburg, RHP

Age: 20

2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Gulf Coast Nationals)

The National’s 2018 1st round pick (#27 overall) hasn’t had the start that everyone, including Denaburg, was hoping. After being drafted in 2018, he had a previous bicep injury from high school that flared up, and the Nationals were cautious with him and did not send him anywhere to pitch. Just seven games into his 2019 season, injury again struck with shoulder surgery needed. Denaburg is expected to be ready for spring training and genuinely get a chance to have the debut season that has avoided him. There is plenty of potential with Denaburg’s game, and that is why he is in my and many other top 10 lists for the Nationals. He has two plus pitches in a 93-95 mph fastball and a breaking ball that is his punchout pitch. He has been working on a changeup that is emerging as a plus pitch, and if he can stay healthy should develop.

2019 Stat I Like: 3.8% HR/FB

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 6.2 BB/9

8. Tim Cate, LHP

Age: 22

2019 Highest Level: A+ (Potomac)

Cate isn’t going to blow you away with upper 90’s velocity and an insanely high K/9, but he does do one thing well, get hitters out. Cate operates with a fastball that often struggles to eclipse the 90 mph mark but has a devastating 12-6 curveball that he can throw in any count. Many scouts viewed his curveball as the best in the country when Cate was at UCONN. His control (2.0 BB/9) and ability to induce out producing ground balls (55 GB%) allowed Cate to have a 3.07 ERA over 26 starts at Hagerstown and Potomac. There has been some talk about moving Cate to the bullpen where his slighter frame may hold up more. In a few relief appearances at UCONN, Cate’s fastball ranged between 92-95 mph. That, combined with his plus curveball, could create an attractive option out of the bullpen. If he remains a starter, I think you see him as a back-end rotation guy.

2019 Stat I Like: 2.88 xFIP

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 67.5 LOB%

9. Yasel Antuna, SS

Age: 20

2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Gulf Coast Nationals)

Antuna spent all but three games recovering from Tommy John surgery that was performed in August of 2018. A 2016 J2 signing ($3.9 million), Antuna is a switch-hitting prospect with plus raw power potential. During his recovery, Antuna got bigger and stronger, and I would expect to see some of that power potential produce dividends in 2020. One area that he will have to show growth in is his plate discipline. In 2018 Antuna had a K% of 22 and a disappointing wOBA of .285. Antuna is a prospect to watch early on to see how he comes back from his injury with his added strength. I see him starting the season in Hagerstown but possibly making a quick jump to A+ Fredericksburg early on.

10. Jeremy De La Rosa, OF

Age: 18

2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Gulf Coast Nationals)

A 2018 J2 signing, De La Rosa has the makeup that scouts potentially see being the next international blue-chip prospect, following in the footsteps of Juan Soto and Victor Robles. A pure hitter with excellent bat speed and ball control, De La Rosa is also an above-average defender with the ability to play all three outfield positions. His above-average speed currently has him patrolling centerfield. His strikeout numbers were high in a limited amount of Gulf Coast at-bats, but I chalk that up to age and can see that improving in 2020.

2019 Stat I Like: .346 wOBA

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 29.3 K%

At World Series champion instructs in the DR today 🇩🇴 OF Jeremy de la Rosa hitting pic.twitter.com/bSrwqAZPZB — Ben Badler (@BenBadler) November 20, 2019

11. Israel Pineda, C

Age: 19

2019 Highest Level: A (Hagerstown)

Another 2016 J2 signing, Pineda has established himself as a potential everyday catcher. The 2019 season offensively was a struggle as a broken finger set him back in his development. Pineda possesses a solid hit tool, and some scouts see some untapped power numbers that could develop with a healthy 2020 season. His offensive ability and strong arm (44 CS%) and receiving skills as a catcher make him a favorite amongst Nationals minor league pitchers.

2019 Stat I Like: 7.3 BB%

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: .274 wOBA

12. Matt Cronin, LHP

Age: 22

2019 Highest Level: A (Hagerstown)

Cronin was a 4th round draft pick in 2019 out of Arkansas. Solely a relief pitcher, he works in the mid to upper 90’s and has a plus curveball. Currently viewed as a potential set up man, the possibility of being a closer exists if his command improves. I think he can move quickly through the system once he can lower his walk numbers.

2019 Stat I Like: 16.77 K/9

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 12.9 BB%

The @Nationals took Arkansas’ Matt Cronin with their fourth-round selection. Here’s some video: pic.twitter.com/O9YY2g5NZ7 — Josh Norris (@jnorris427) June 4, 2019

13. Ben Braymer, LHP

Age: 25

2019 Highest Level: AAA (Fresno)

Braymer has bounced between being a starter and working out of the bullpen the last few seasons. The 2019 season saw him predominantly be a starter. The Nationals see his ultimate role as a lefty specialist out of the bullpen. When operating as a relief pitcher, his K rates are higher than when in a starting role (9.4 K/9 in 2018 as relief, 7.05 K/9 in 2019 as a starter).

2019 Stat I Like: 0.97 WHIP in 13 AA Starts

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 12.3 BB% in 13 AAA Starts

14. Seth Romero, RHP

Age: 23

2019 Highest Level: DNP – Injury Recovery

Romero was drafted 25th overall in the 2017 draft by the Nationals even though he was considered a top 10 pick. Why the drop? Off the field issues have continued to plague Romero and his status. The 2018 season also included having to have Tommy John surgery in August and missing all of the 2019 season. During his rehab, Nationals officials have indicated that his behavior and physical conditioning have all improved. If all of this is true and Romero can focus on pitching, he could easily be back in the top 10 by midseason. Romero may operate out of the bullpen in 2020 as he will be placed on an innings and pitch limit. The long term plan though is for Romero to remain a starter.

#Nationals LHP Seth Romero 91-94 all night w/ late hop, think he is building back arm-str and the t96-97 will be back. SL 82-84 and CH 83-86 are advanced, throws strikes w/ deceptive delivery. Finishes this AB with his signature slider, out pitch to both RHH/LHH. #OnePursuit pic.twitter.com/oScK6L1I5M — Adam McInturff (@2080adam) July 4, 2018

Tier 4

15. Joan Adon, RHP

Age: 21

2019 Highest Level: A (Hagerstown)

The J2 signing period in 2016 was a busy time for the Nationals and has produced several top 20 prospects. Adon is another name that came from that group and shows promise. A mid to upper 90’s fastball and a plus slider, those tools were used primarily out of the bullpen during his first two seasons. In 2019 Adon was moved to a starting role and had success going 11-3 with a 3.86 ERA. Strikeout numbers and velocity dipped in his starting role, and ultimately he may be more suited for a bullpen role.

2019 Stat I Like: 7.3% HR/FB

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 3.77 BB/9

16. Reid Schaller, RHP

Age: 22

2019 Highest Level: A (Hagerstown)

Schaller will remain in a starter role for 2020 while he works to develop his secondary pitches and works on his command, which he struggled with during the 2019 season. Another bullpen option for the Nationals system. See a trend here?

2019 Stat I Like: 8.13 K/9

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 11.7 BB%

17. Tres Barrera, C

Age: 25

2019 Highest Level: MLB

Barrera got a very brief cup of coffee with the Nationals, only garnering two at-bats. The defense-first catcher makes consistent contact, and some power appears from time to time. The ceiling for Barrera seems to be as a backup catcher.

2019 Stat I Like: .321 wOBA

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 7.3% HR/FB

18. Raudy Read, C

Age: 26

2019 Highest Level: MLB

Similar to Barrera, Read played in 6 games with the Nationals but produced nothing. Read is the opposite of Barrera in that he is not strong defensively but can hit. At every level, his average hovers around the .270 mark, and he will hit for some power. In 2019 he hit 20 home runs while producing a .271 ISO. Read is probably a pinch-hit option off the bench with the occasional start at 1st sprinkled in.

2019 Stat I Like: .271 ISO

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 5.2 BB%

19. James Bourque, RHP

Age: 26

2019 Highest Level: MLB

Another bullpen arm, Bourque, appeared briefly for the Nats at the tail end of the season. He has an electric fastball that hits 97-98 mph and a breaking ball that is also considered a plus pitch. The K/9 rate is impressive, but command issues have been a factor in the last two seasons.

2019 Stat I Like: 12.1 K/9 in 47 APP in AA & AAA

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 6.18 BB/9 in 33 APP in AAA

20. Eddy Yean, RHP

Age: 18

2019 Highest Level: Short Season A (Auburn)

Yean was a J2 signing from 2017 and has the talent to be a mid-rotation starter. A plus fastball and two average secondary pitches allowed him to reach an 8.4 K/9 rate in 10 starts for Auburn. Reducing his walks (3.3 B/9) will be a goal for 2020 and could help Yean be a viable starting option for a system full of starters who may be suited better for the bullpen.

2019 Stat I Like: 1.16 WHIP in 10 Starts

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 3.3 BB/9 in 10 Starts

21. Roismar Quintana, OF

Age: 16

2019 Highest Level: Instructional

After Andry Lara, Quintana was the next prominent J2 signing for the Nats in 2019. A combination of above-average raw power and above-average speed make him a toolsy outfielder to keep an eye on. The instructional league was his only stop last summer, but scouts were able to see some opposite-field power that projects.

22. Tyler Dyson, RHP

Age: 22

2019 Highest Level: Short Season A (Auburn)

Dyson was on the same Florida Gators rotation as Brady Singer and Jackson Kowar in 2018. After a stellar freshman season, Dyson looked to be a bonafide day one pick. Health issues and lack of results in 2019 saw him drop out of the rotation and into the 5th round. In 8 starts at Auburn, he compiled a 1.14 ERA. His strikeout rate was disappointing (3.98 K/9), but he got hitters out. Dyson has good stuff that should allow him to succeed. He could be a sleeper moving forward.

2019 Stat I Like: 0.88 WHIP

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 3.98 K/9

#Nationals select RHP Tyler Dyson (Florida) with their 5th Round pick, #153 overall. Has flashed Day One stuff in the past, with a FB that touches 96-97 and hard SL. Struggled this spring and has some health questions. Reclamation project w/ intriguing two-pitch mix. #OnePursuit pic.twitter.com/uhY9KIgJP5 — Adam McInturff (@2080adam) June 4, 2019

23. Malvin Pena, RHP

Age: 22

2019 Highest Level: A+ (Potomac)

Tell me if you’ve heard this one before? A starting pitcher in the Nationals system who may be better suited for a bullpen role. Pena fits the bill for this as well. Injury issues have been a problem for him as well as command and the propensity to give up the long ball (1.68 HR/9). A full, healthy season may hopefully change his fortunes in 2020.

2019 Stat I Like: 7.30 K/9

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 11.8% HR/FB

24. Jackson Tetreault, RHP

Age: 23

2019 Highest Level: AA Harrisburg

The 2019 season was a mixed bag for Tetreault. In 7 starts in Potomac, he performed well, compiling a 1.12 WHIP. Harrisburg (AA) was a different story as command issues (10.5 BB%) were a problem, and the more skilled hitters in the Eastern League equaled uninspiring starts. The 2020 season should see Tetreault back with Harrisburg to start the season. Perhaps the lessons learned there last year can get him off to a good start.

2019 Stat I Like: 1.91 ERA in 7 A+ Starts

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 1.61 WHIP in 18 AA Starts

Tier 5

25. Jackson Cluff, SS

Age: 23

2019 Highest Level: A (Hagerstown)

A BYU product, Cluff missed two seasons of baseball because of his mission trip but still was able to have a productive season in 2019 and be drafted in the 6th round. He is an interesting prospect as he has a useful hit tool and some speed combined with the ability to stick in the infield. He had 11 stolen bases in Hagerstown, and I look for that number to be exceeded in 2020. Because of being older than most at his level, it’s tough to get a full grasp of the player he will be. I feel like if he can lower his strikeout numbers (22.5 K%), get on base more (.320 OBP), and use his speed, and he could eventually be a high floor bench player.

2019 Stat I Like: .320 OBP

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 22.5 K%

Former @rockybaseball and @BYUBaseball standout Jackson Cluff made his pro ball debut last night. He got the start again at SS for the @HagerstownSuns tonight. Cluff singled in his first AB (first pro hit) and has since been hit by a pitch and walked. (🎥 Mike Littlewood, BYU) pic.twitter.com/xvHldNIuMg — Jay Tust (@KTVBSportsGuy) June 22, 2019

26. Jake Irvin, RHP

Age: 23

2019 Highest Level: A (Hagerstown)

Irvin pitched well over 25 starts in Hagerstown. Nothing about his numbers jump out at you, but he looks like he can stick in the starting rotation. Look for him to start the season in AA Harrisburg.

2019 Stat I Like: 7.92 K/9

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 38.9 GB%

27. Aldrem Corredor, 1B/OF

Age: 24

2019 Highest Level: A+ (Potomac)

Corredor has hit at every level he’s played. A great contact hitter, he had 34 doubles and 89 RBIs this season and was named a 2019 Carolina League All-Star. His over the fence power numbers are low, but if he can improve on that and be more selective at the plate, he makes a jump into the top 20 for me by midseason. The long term at this point I don’t see anything but a bat off the bench, but nothing would surprise me with Corredor.

2019 Stat I Like: .341 wOBA

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 6.7 BB%

The @MiLB_CarolinaLg leader in RBI is Aldrem Corredor. Here’s why: pic.twitter.com/kI9ZA72qxT — Fredericksburg Nationals (@FXBGNats) July 1, 2019

28. Telmito Agustin, OF

Age: 23

2019 Highest Level: A+ (Potomac)

Agustin has been a prospect on the radar for a while now but just hasn’t had that season that scouts were hoping for. The 2020 season, in my opinion, is his last chance to prove that he could be a contributor at the next level. Plate discipline needs to improve because he does have above-average speed that could be utilized if he can get on base more.

2019 Stat I Like: 9 HR (up from 2018)

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: .289 OBP

Telmito Agustin put the P-Nats ahead in the first inning of last night’s game with a two-run triple! Here’s how it sounded on the Potomac Nationals Baseball Network: pic.twitter.com/ttGTBBZhI0 — Fredericksburg Nationals (@FXBGNats) June 1, 2019

29. Gage Canning, OF

Age: 22

2019 Highest Level: A+ (Potomac)

Canning possesses plus speed and the ability to steal bases (14 SB). A toolsy and hard-working player, he needs to cut down on his swing and miss at-bats (27.8 K%) to be a more productive top of the order hitter. Harrisburg seems like a likely landing spot for the beginning of the season.

2019 Stat I Like: 7.8 BB%

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 27.8 K%

See tonight’s walk-off win, courtesy of a squeeze bunt from @gagecanning in the tenth! pic.twitter.com/G3mEwKScMt — Fredericksburg Nationals (@FXBGNats) July 31, 2019

30. Steven Fuentes, RHP

Age: 22

2019 Highest Level: AA (Harrisburg)

Fuentes was suspended for 50 games in August 2019, failing a drug test after stimulant use. Used as both a starter and reliever, he produced impressive strikeout numbers (10 K/9) and a 1.15 WHIP in 23 appearances. Putting the suspension behind him and getting back to form in 2020, he could be a back end rotation guy.

2019 Stat I Like: 26.3 K% in 80.2 innings (A+ and AA)

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 3.71 BB/9 in A+

31. Gilbert Lara, SS/3B

Age: 22

2019 Highest Level: A+ (Potomac)

Lara was part of the trade in 2018 that sent Gio Gonzalez to the Brewers. He has good bat speed, and some raw power that I think hasn’t been fully tapped after hitting 13 HRs in 2019. Better plate discipline (23 K% and 4.6 BB%) is the goal for 2020.

2019 Stat I Like: 13 HR (A and A+)

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: .278 wOBA in 193 PA at Potomac (A+)

Have you told your friends and loved ones about Gilbert Lara yet? pic.twitter.com/4MTMUk2s4C — Fredericksburg Nationals (@FXBGNats) July 16, 2019

32. Cole Freeman, 2B/OF

Age: 25

2019 Highest Level: A+ (Potomac)

The LSU product stole 31 bases in 2019 en route to a midseason All-Star selection in the Carolin League. There is no doubting Freeman’s speed, but at 25 years old, he needs to show this year that he can hit more advanced pitching in AA this year. Freeman could end up being in a utility role at some point in the majors.

2019 Stat I Like: .394 OBP

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 48.7 GB%

33. Jhonatan German, RHP

Age: 25

2019 Highest Level: AA (Harrisburg)

German pitched well over three different levels in 2019 and appears to be a back of the end bullpen option. A two-pitch reliever with an upper 90’s fastball, his command improved in 2019, and that should bode well for his ability as either a setup man or closer.

2019 Stat I Like: 0.95 WHIP in 64 Innings

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 13.3 % HR/FB in 23 A+ Appearances

34. KJ Harrison, 1B/C

Age: 23

2019 Highest Level: A+ (Potomac)

Harrison was the other prospect acquired in the Gio Gonzalez trade and had a nice first season with the Nationals. His ability to get on base (.344 OBP) and flashes of power (11 HR) were highlights from 2019. His strikeout numbers must improve, and I could see him making a jump in the rankings by midseason if he can do that.

2019 Stat I Like: .363 OBP in 479 PA

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 23.7 K% in 413 PA at Potomac (A+)

35. Nick Banks, OF

Age: 25

2019 Highest Level: AA (Harrisburg)

A strong 2019 campaign saw Banks hit .288 in AA while making better adjustments to his approach at the plate. The power numbers just haven’t been there for Banks, but a continued ability to hit line drives could open the door for him in a bench outfield role in the majors.

2019 Stat I Like: .350 wOBA at Harrisburg (AA)

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 6.3 BB% at Potomac (A+)

Nationals prospect Nick Banks beating the shift putting a great swing on the ball pic.twitter.com/Lq1CEM69jB — Drake Mann (@DrakeMann4) October 26, 2019

36. Justin Connell, OF

Age: 21

2019 Highest Level: A (Hagerstown)

Getting his first full-season assignment in 2019, Connell shows some promise as a possible top of the order hitter. With his above-average speed (13 SB) and plate discipline (14.7 K% and 9.6 BB%), he makes up for his lack of power. If he wants a chance to develop into an everyday player, he needs to show more power in 2020.

2019 Stat I Like: .337 OBP

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: .072 ISO

Video and scouting report on #Nationals breakout sleeper OF Justin Connell. 11th RD’er from high school in 2017, off to a strong start for @HagerstownSuns. .327/.439/.500 with more BBs than Ks. #OnePursuit Scouting Report:https://t.co/ijjCmhhSDF pic.twitter.com/Mdt461pe4e — Adam McInturff (@2080adam) May 4, 2019

37. Trey Turner, RHP

Age: 23

2019 Highest Level: A (Hagerstown)

Trey Turner, no, not that Trea Turner, showed some impressive strikeout numbers in 2019 (14.2 K/9). Conversely, his control was pretty awful (6.9 BB/9). If he wants any role out of the bullpen, those walk numbers must improve in 2020.

2019 Stat I Like: 14.2 KK/9

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 6.9 BB/9

38. Leandro Emiliani, 1B/OF

Age: 20

2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Gulf Coast Nationals)

Look for Emiliani to get his first taste of full-season ball in 2020. In the Gulf Coast League last season, he impressed with a .947 OPS and flashes of power. His strikeout numbers (25.1 K%) will need to improve at the next level. One of a few intriguing prospects who haven’t appeared in full-season ball yet.

2019 Stat I Like: .947 OPS

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 25.1 K%

39. Viandel Pena, 2B/SS

Age: 19

2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Gulf Coast Nationals)

Pena is another prospect that is worth keeping an eye on in 2020. Standing at just 5’8″, his Jose Altuve like stature doesn’t preclude him from being able to hit. In 37 games in the Gulf Coast League, he had a .359 average and a .455 OBP. We will have to see how those numbers play out over the course of 100+ games.

2019 Stat I Like: .935 OPS

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: .122 ISO

40. Geraldi Diaz, C/1B

Age: 19

2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Gulf Coast Nationals)

Diaz came stateside for 24 games this year and performed well. He had impressive plate discipline while drawing more walks than strikeouts. There is little projectable power at this point, but he did sport a .415 OBP and could be ready for a full-season assignment.

2019 Stat I Like: .415 OBP

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 4.2 HR/FB%

41. Jacob Rhinesmith, OF

Age: 23

2019 Highest Level: A (Hagerstown)

Rhinemsith did a good job of getting on base (.351 OBP) and showed flashes on power this year. His 33 doubles and 10 HRs were impressive numbers for his first full season. At 23 years old, I want to see how he performs against better pitching before I think about moving him any further up in my rankings.

2019 Stat I Like: .756 OPS

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 5.8 HR/FB%

42. Francys Peguero, RHP

Age: 24

2019 Highest Level: A+ (Potomac)

Another pitcher who will split time between starting and the bullpen. Peguero showed good command at both levels this year and had a 2.95 ERA in 17 starts in Hagerstown.

2019 Stat I Like: 77.5 LOB% in 17 Starts in Hagerstown (A)

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 3.28 BB/9 in 9 Appearances in Potomac (A+)

43. Rhett Wiseman, OF

Age: 25

2019 Highest Level: AA (Harrisburg)

The 25-year-old showed some power this year with 15 HRs but also struck out a ton (32.4 K%). I’m not sure if at his age he can improve vastly, but could be an off the bench pinch hitter down the road.

2019 Stat I Like: .197 ISO

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 32.4 K%

Rhett Wiseman jumps all over this fastball for a long single. #OnePursuit pic.twitter.com/TCsipDlxUy — Ralph Lifshitz (@ProspectJesus) May 15, 2019

44. Nick Raquet, LHP

Age: 24

2019 Highest Level: A+ (Potomac)

The lefty started 25 games for Potomac this year and had an unassuming season. His 8.42 K/9 was good, but he has to improve on keeping the ball in the park.

2019 Stat I Like: 8.42 K/9

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 10.7 HR/FB%

45. Jakson Reetz, C

Age: 24

2019 Highest Level: A+ (Potomac)

Reetz had his best power numbers (.188 ISO) last year, but he hasn’t played more than 100 games in any season. Last year was his third straight year at Potomac, and unless things change, I don’t see him being more than a third catching option.

2019 Stat I Like: .812 OPS

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 24.5 K%

46. Jorge Hurtado, OF

Age: 19

2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Gulf Coast Nationals)

Another young prospect who should get a start in full-season ball in 2020, Hurtado impressed with a .772 OPS in 2019. His strikeouts (31.7 K%) and plate discipline must improve in 2020.

2019 Stat I Like: .358 wOBA

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 31.7 K%

47. Daniel Marte, OF

Age: 18

2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Dominican Summer League)

Marte will hopefully come stateside this season and get some time in the Gulf Coast League. He is someone I’m watching closely as his time in the Dominican Summer League was very productive. He has speed (10 stolen bases and nine triples) to go along with some power (.190 ISO). As with most young players, plate discipline (29.3 K% and 4.8 %BB) and approach need to be fine-tuned.

2019 Stat I Like: .190 ISO

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 29.3 K%

48. Raymi Gomez, OF

Age: 20

2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Dominican Summer League)

Just like Marte before, Gomez should be coming stateside in 2020. He shows a better approach at the plate (11 BB%) and some in-game power as he hit 5 HRs and 32 RBIs in 49 games.

2019 Stat I Like: .384 wOBA

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 23.3 K%

49. Bryan Pena, LHP

Age: 20

2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Gulf Coast Nationals)

Working predominantly out of the bullpen, Pena shows some electric stuff and the ability to get strikeouts (10.43 K/9). Command was an issue for him and will have to improve upon if he wants to remain in a back end bullpen role.

2019 Stat I Like: 28.3 K%

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 3.38 BB/9

50. Junior Martina, 2B/3B

Age: 22

2019 Highest Level: Short Season A (Auburn)

A 16th round pick in the 2019 draft, Martina played mostly in the Gulf Coast League in his debut and performed well. He showed a good awareness at the plate (16.7 K% and 11.9 BB%) and had a .976 OPS. The Curacoa product will likely start the season with Hagerstown in 2020.

2019 Stat I Like: .976 OPS

2019 Stat I Don’t Like: 9 Errors in 36 games