As we near the Midsummer Classic known as the MLB All-Star game, it is a good time to take a moment for reflection. It is so easy to get lost in the excitement of the future that we often forget the past. Just think back to where we were at this same point a year ago. Around this time last season, we had already seen a tremendous migration of prospects including, but not limited to, Kris Bryant, Francisco Lindor, Carlos Correa and Noah Syndergaard. We were not even close to being done, either.
Even with those names and more promoted, last year's list during this week still featured plenty of talent. Six of the top 10 (Corey Seager, Aaron Nola, Miguel Sano, Tim Anderson, Kyle Schwarber and Joe Ross) are on a major league roster (including two on the disabled list). There are two more (see below) that land on this week's top as well. And then there is a final pair (Luis Severino and Richie Shaffer) that made their major league debuts last season and are searching to regain what got them there.
The June 29, 2015 list was headlined by Corey Seager. The favorite for National League Rookie of the Year is not just holding his own these days; he is arguably the best shortstop in the NL and deserves to start the All-Star game although that does not look likely with the fan voting.
Seager began play on Monday hitting .303/.362/.536 with 17 home runs and 20 doubles. Despite being only 22-years-old, he handles the zone like a veteran and spends most of his time at the top of the Dodgers' lineup. Defensively he has been a standout at the six spot. He has been everything as advertised and perhaps even a bit more.
Coming in just behind Seager in 2015 was Aaron Nola. Now, arguably the unofficial ace of the Phillies' staff, Nola has also been as projected despite some dirt on his (4.69) ERA.
Leading with a low-90s fastball and a dominating Jimmy Carter-era curveball that lives in the late-70s, the right-hander has punched out more batters (106) than innings pitched (96). He has done so while limiting his walks -- Nola has issued just 20 unintentional walks this year. His 2.97 FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching) is nearly two runs below his ERA. His average on batted balls is higher than normal at .331 and he is prone to the big fly. Still, if I'm taking a bet on someone to pitch well into the next decade, Nola is definitely in the conversation.
Who will we be talking about this time next year?