MiLB Top 10 Prospects Flashback: 1983 Carolina League

Some of the most accomplished hitters of the 1990s and early 2000s passed through the high Class A Carolina League on their way to the majors, including Barry Bonds in 1985 and Chipper Jones and Manny Ramirez in 1992. But the Carolina League class of 1983 stands out for its breadth of talent, with five players who accumulated 10 or more WAR in the big leagues.

1983 Carolina League Top 10 Prospects

Lynchburg teammates Dwight Gooden (No. 1) and Lenny Dykstra (No. 4) dominated the Carolina League on their way to becoming core pieces of the Mets’ 1986 World Series champions. In 27 starts for Lynchburg, Gooden used his “outstanding curveball” and “90-95 mph fastball” to go 19-4, 2.50 with a mind-bending 300 strikeouts in 191 innings. He is the last minor leaguer to top 300. Dykstra, an “all-around” center fielder with range, an “above-average arm” and “occasional power,” won the Carolina League batting title (.358) and set a league record with 105 stolen bases. 

Scouts accurately pegged No. 3 prospect Bobby Bonilla as a dangerous hitter from both sides of the plate who would be a defensive liability. No. 5 prospect Fred McGriff, a “steal” of an acquisition from the Yankees, was lauded for his power and “sweet swing,” undercut by his “woefully weak” fielding ability. 

Duane Ward (No. 5) would become a durable high-leverage reliever for the Blue Jays, but he worked as a starter in the Braves’ system. He went 11-13, 4.29 for Durham, on the strength of his “outstanding fastball that moves,” though command of his curveball and slider proved elusive in the rotation.   

Carolina League All-Time BA No. 1 Prospects

Players listed with career major league plate appearances/innings and FanGraphs WAR. Stats for active players current through mid August.