2004 Top 100 Prospects

February 27, 2004

Detailed Scouting Reports For 900 Players Order Your Copy of The 2004 Prospect Handbook

Baseball America's 15th annual Top 100 Prospects list reflects each player's long-term major league value, considering both his ceiling and the likelihood that he reaches that potential. All players who haven't exceeded the rookie limits of 130 at-bats and 50 innings were eligible, regardless of big league service time. Editor in chief Allan Simpson, managing editor Will Lingo, executive editor Jim Callis, national writer John Manuel and former national writer Josh Boyd (now an area scout with the Padres) compiled the top 100 in consultation with general managers, scouting directors, farm directors, scouts, managers, instructors and other Baseball America correspondents and staff members. Executive Editor Jim Callis wrote the summaries. ETA is our estimate of when the player will become a big league regular.

Full List (subscribers only): 1-25 | 26-50 | 51-75 | 76-100 

---

1. Joe Mauer c, Twins

Memo to Drew Henson: This is what can happen when a two-sport star sticks to baseball from the beginning. ETA: 2004

---

2. B.J. Upton ss, Devil Rays

Think Kevin McClatchy would still want the Pirates to take a college player with the No. 1 pick in 2002? ETA: 2004

---

3. Delmon Young of, Devil Rays

In his first taste of pro ball, he went straight to the Arizona Fall League and batted .417. ETA: 2006

---

4. Edwin Jackson rhp, Dodgers

Beat Randy Johnson 4-1 in his big league debut. On his 20th birthday. ETA: 2004

---

5. Rickie Weeks 2b, Brewers

Set an NCAA record with a career .473 batting average, then hit .329 in his pro debut and .319 in the AFL. ETA: 2005

---

6. Alexis Rios of, Blue Jays

His power explosion in the Puerto Rican League was his latest step in becoming the next Dave Winfield. ETA: 2005

---

7. Kazuo Matsui ss, Mets

Won't be the 30-30 guy he was in Japan, but should be one of the best shortstops in the National League. ETA: 2004

---

8. Greg Miller lhp, Dodgers

His stock has soared along with his velocity, which went from the mid-80s in early 2002 to the low 90s last year. ETA: 2005

---

9. Grady Sizemore of, Indians

Like Mauer, wisely made the decision to give up football and became one of baseball's most promising talents. ETA: 2005

---

10. Prince Fielder 1b, Brewers

Won't win any beauty contests, but he has more power than any player in the minors and could eclipse his dad. ETA: 2005