Let’s begin looking at what the Cardinals currently have. We will chat about the Top 30 prospects and what they bring to the table. This is broken down into 5 player segments. We will begin will prospect 26-30 for the Cardinals.
#30- Kramer Robertson–
He was drafted in the 4th round of the 2017 draft as a shortstop. Many believe his arm is better suited for second base but so far that move hasn’t happened. He is very athletic with above-average speed and has good bat contact but very little power. He is also a good baserunner.
This past season was spent in Low-A Peoria where he played in 54 games, had 215 at-bats, 58 hits (12 doubles, 0 triples, and 3 home runs), He has 10 stolen bases and batted .270 for the season.
Kramer is several years away from any major league time.
#29- Bryce Denton–
He was drafted in the 2015 draft in the 2nd round. He is projected to have a good bat but has had a bad season so far. He started at third base but was shifted to the outfield. He has a good arm.
He played in 75 minor league games in 2017 and hit .240. He had 283 at-bats with 68 hits (10 doubles, 3 triples, and 3 home runs). He included 25 RBI’s with 21 walks and 74 strikeouts. He stole 4 bases in his time at Peoria and State College.
Denton needs to get it going. He is several years away and must produce with the bat better than he has.
#28- Scott Hurst–
Hurst was drafted in the 2017 draft in the 3rd round. He was taken as an outfielder from Cal State Fullerton. He has good plate discipline and draws lots of walks. Known as a contact hitter, he batted .282 last year in the minor leagues.
He played in 55 games with 213 at-bats along with 60 hits (11 doubles, 6 triples, and 6 homers). He drove in 21 runners and stole 6 bases.
Lots of players ahead of him at the moment. He has is several years away from the major leagues.
#27- Andrew Knizner–
He is a catcher that was drafted in the 7th round of the 2016 draft. Currently, he is playing in the Arizona Fall League for the Surprise Saguaros. He is a good hitter with some pop in his bat with a solid arm behind the plate. He has thrown out nearly 40% of the base stealers but may be looking to convert to 3rd base.
He drove in 51 runners in 95 games and 109 hits. He popped 12 home runs and batted .302 last year. He is only one level away from the major leagues.
Look for Knizner, if not included in a trade, to make the major leagues when Molina retires.
#26- Nick Plummer–
Nick was drafted in the 1st round of the 2015 draft. He has had several injuries that have held him back. He has plate discipline with decent power and the ability to accept walks. He can play LF or CF.
He batted .198 in 92 games. If he falters at the next level, he is likely gone.
The next part of this series will be prospects #21-25 which include Zach Jackson, Tommy Edman, Ryan Helsley, Jonathan Machado and Johan Oviedo.
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