MLB.com has released their annual top 100 prospect list. Like the Baseball America list, it featured three Nationals, Dylan Crews, Travis Sykora, and Jarlin Susana. However, the order was different.
After ranking as the number 1 prospect at the end of the season, Dylan Crews dropped to number 4 on the rankings. Despite the fall, they are still extremely high on Crews. All of his tools grade out at 60 or above. He is a true five tool player, with star upside. They also noted Crews’ habit of starting slow at new levels of the Minor Leagues before figuring them out as he got more at bats. This is something I can see happening in the MLB as well. We already saw him struggle a bit in his first cup of coffee, while also showing glimpses of his upside.
Next on the list is Travis Sykora, who was number 70 on the list. After a dominant year in Low-A, the former third rounder launched himself into the top 100. Sykora’s fastball and splitter both graded out as 60 grade pitches, with his slider receiving an above average 55 grade. After regularly being in the high 90’s in high school, Sykora sat in the mid 90’s in pro ball. However, scouts are optimistic that he can add more velocity as he adjusts to the professional workload entering his second pro season. If Sykora continues to dominate at higher levels, his stock could go through the roof.
The last National on the list was Jarlin Susana, who came in at 79th. Susana’s fastball got a massive 75 grade on the 20-80 scouting scale. Sitting at 100 MPH, he is one of the hardest throwers the sport has to offer. He also has two distinct fastballs with a sinker and a four-seamer. He also has a plus slider to pair with the fastball. He still doesn’t have a reliable third pitch, and his command is still a work in progress. However, that fastball/slider combination is as electric as it gets.
Brady House slipped out of the top 100, presumably due to his down season where issues with his plate discipline were exposed. However, there are a number of guys who are knocking on the door of the top 100 including House and Seaver King.