Midseason Red Sox Prospects 12

1. Xander Bogaerts-Salem- SS- Grade:103
Xander is the player with the highest upside in the Red Sox system. As he continues to mature physically he will develop plus-power with the potential to hit 30 or more home runs a season. In his first year of full-season ball, Xander crushed 16 home runs in just 72 games. He has also enjoyed a successful 2012 campaign, as he has posted an OPS of .812 as a 19-year old for Salem. However, Xander's ability to remain at short has been called into question. It is almost certain that Xander will make the conversion to third base or a corner outfield position as his body fills out. Fortunately, Xander's potent bat will allow him to remain a valuable asset even if he struggles defensively.

2. Matt Barnes-Salem-P-Grade:84
If the 2011 draft were re held today, Barnes would likely be a top 10 pick. When the Sox nabbed him with the 19th overall pick he was widely regarded as a steal for them. While Barnes was originally overshadowed by elite college arms like Trevor Bauer, Gerrit Cole, Taylor Jungmann, and Danny Hultzen, Barnes' prospect stock has climbed significantly during 2012. In 18 starts slpit between Greenville and Salem Matt has accumulated an ERA of 2.38 with a record of 7-3. Barnes is a power pitcher who could eventually become a very good 2 or 3 starter for Boston. The key to his success will be his ability to command his off speed pitches more consistently.

3. Jackie Bradley Jr.- Portland-CF-Grade 80
Bradley labeled as a potential top 15 pick before his Junior season at South Carolina, but 2011 was a dismal year marred by injuries for Bradley. In June he slipped to Boston in the supplemental round. Bradley's bat was considered a real question mark going into 2012. But JBJ has done nothing but hit in his first full  professional season. A quick riser, Bradley was promoted to Portland before the All-Star break. He has posted a ridiculous OBP of .452 and has stolen 22 bases this year, leading many to believe that he he could develop into a very good lead off hitter in the big leagues. However, the best part of Bradley's game is his defensive capability. While he does not possess blazing speed, he does have uncanny instincts in the outfield and the ability to become a gold glove center fielder.-

4. Blake Swihart-Greenville-C-Grade: 64
5. Bryce Brentz- Portland-OF- Grade: 61
6. Garin Cecchini-Greenville-3B-Grade: 60
7. Ryan Lavarnway-Pawtuckett-C-Grade: 57
8. Deven Marrero-Lowell-SS-Grade: 57
9. Brandon Jacobs- Salem-OF-Grade: 54
10. Henry Owens-Greenville-P-Grade: 49
11. Brandon Workman-Salem-P-Grade: 47
12. Ty Buttery- NA-P-Grade: 39