I am counting down my personal list of the top 25 Pirate prospects. You can follow the countdown here, or by clicking on the “Top 25 Prospects” link in the site header.
Date of Birth: 11/9/1982
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 210 pounds
Bats/Throws: R/R
Position: 1B
Drafted: 12th Round, 2005 (Boston College)
I am a little higher on Delaney than most others seem to be. He has always been old for his level, has shown very little power for a first baseman and is below average defensively, which is quite a bit working against him. But he has excellent plate discipline, walking 217 times in three professional seasons. His impressive walk rates and high on-base percentages could make him a decent utility player in Pittsburgh some day. He also seems to be a very smart hitter, which can’t hurt his chances.
Expected arrival in Pittsburgh: 2010
Date of Birth: 5/30/1985
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 223 pounds
Bats/Throws: L/L
Position: P
Drafted: 9th Round, 2007 (University of Nebraska)
Watson has had some success in the low minors due to an exceptional changeup and good control. His fastball velocity is below average in the mid-eighties, clouding his future potential at higher levels. The Pirates limited his use of the changeup in 2008, challenging him to improve his fastball rather than relying on the change against inexperienced hitters. If he continues to develop, he may have a future as a situational left-handed reliever.
Expected arrival in Pittsburgh: 2011
