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January 23, 2008

Future Shock

Rockies Top 11 Prospects

by Kevin Goldstein

Five-Star Prospects
1. Franklin Morales, LHP
Four-Star Prospects
2. Chris Nelson, SS
3. Greg Reynolds, RHP
4. Casey Weathers, RHP
5. Dexter Fowler, CF
Three-Star Prospects
6. Ian Stewart, 3B
7. Hector Gomez, SS
8. Brandon Hynick, RHP
9. Juan Morillo, RHP
Two-Star Prospects
10. Jayson Nix, 2B
11. Brian Rike, OF

Just Missing: Chaz Roe, RHP; Seth Smith, OF; Pedro Strop, RHP

1. Franklin Morales, LHP
DOB: 1/24/86
Height/Weight: 6-0/170
Bats/Throws: L/L
Acquired: NDFA, 2002, Venezuela
2007 Stats: 3.48 ERA at Double-A (95.2-77-45-77); 3.71 ERA at Triple-A (17-20-13-16); 3.43 ERA at MLB (39.1-34-14-26)

Year In Review: The system's top pitcher got off to a slow start, but a second-half surge got him into the majors, where he made a number of impressive starts before faltering in the postseason.
The Good: Few players at any level can match Morales' power arsenal from the left side. His fastball sits at 92-96 mph and has touched 99 in the past, and his curveball is a plus-plus knee buckler when it's on. He's a good athlete who fields his position well, and he earns raves from team officials for his professionalism.
The Bad: Morales' numbers aren't as dominant as his stuff. He overthrows at times, and is still coming around to the fact that 94 mph with command and sink is a better pitch than 98 and wild. His changeup varies between slightly below to slightly above average; more consistency with it, as well as better control, could allow for a breakthrough.
Fun Fact: In five big-league starts away from Coors Field, Morales had a 2.05 ERA while limiting hitters to a .209 average.
Perfect World Projection: An upper-echelon big-league starter.
Timetable: The Rockies have Morales penciled in for a rotation job in 2008, but he'll need to earn it with a strong showing in spring training.

2. Chris Nelson, SS
DOB: 9/3/85
Height/Weight: 5-11/176
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted: 1^st round, 2004, Redan HS (GA)
2007 Stats: .289/.358/.503 at High-A (133 G)