Pirates Prospects

Now I know you are all probably wondering why is there a post on the Pirates during Super Bowl week? Legitimate concern, and while the rest of the week most likely will be dedicated to the Steelers run for a six pack, John Perrotto of Baseball America and the Beaver County Times broke down the top 10 prospects in the Pirates system.

1.	Pedro Alvarez, 3b
2.	Andrew McCutchen, of
3.	Jose Tabata, of
4.	Brad Lincoln, rhp
5.	Bryan Morris, rhp
6.	Neil Walker, 3b
7.	Jeff Sues, rhp
8.	Shelby Ford, 2b
9.	Daniel McCutchen, rhp
10.	Robbie Grossman, of

I've personally talked to John before and value his opinion greatly. For the most part I agree with his list, but my one major beef comes right at the top. He had Pedro Alvarez listed ahead of Andrew McCutchen. Not Cool.

McCutchen, who was drafted in the 1st round like Alvarez has progressed throughout the minor leagues in just 4 seasons and is expected to crack the major league roster sometime this year. He is an extraordinary defensive outfielder with a good bat and some big time speed. Just last season he was ranked as the Pirates number 1 prospect.

Alvarez on the other hand, is average at best defensively at 3rd base and is having trouble finding his power after an injury last season. Whats worse is that he signed super-agent Scott Boras to represent him. Boras is notorious for delaying negotiations, thus delaying the start of his career.

So unless Perrotto is saying the McCutchen is bound for the bigs, thus taking his prospect status away, I disagree that Alvarez, who hasn't played an inning in the Pirates minor league system, is the number 1 Prospect.