Future Shock

State of the Systems, AL West

by Kevin Goldstein

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

2008 Rookies: None will start the season with the team. Brandon Wood's continuing struggles in the contact department have taken him out of any competition for a spot, though he still could be up at some point in the season. Top pitching prospect Nick Adenhart is lined up for a September look at best.

Minor League Road Trip: Wood and Adenhart will both be monitored closely at Triple-A to evaluate their major league readiness. The Low-A team will feature Jordan Walden and Mason Tobin in the rotation, and they'll be pitching to sleeper catcher prospect Anel De Los Santos.

Pivotal Season: With 15 strikeouts in 36 spring training at-bats, Wood is getting to the point where his remarkable California League season of 2005 is too far in the rear view mirror and he needs to start getting in done at the higher levels.

I Like Him Better Than Most: While third baseman Matt Sweeney has defensive issues and an impatient approach, his combination of plus-plus raw power and a good feel for contact is rarely seen in a young player.

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