PROSPECT OASIS IN THE DESERT
The Rookie-level Arizona League continued its rapid growth. Three new teams expanded the league to 21, when just 10 years ago there were 11 teams in the complex league. Seven of the 14 organizations making up the league now have two affiliates, with the Athletics, Brewers and Dodgers adding second squads this year. The expansion made for a deep pool of prospects, perhaps the strongest in the history of the league.
The top prospect was Padres shortstop CJ Abrams, the sixth overall pick in the 2019 draft. Lauded by scouts for his elite athleticism and advanced hitting instincts, Abrams was named league MVP and led all hitters with a .401 average and .662 slugging percentage.
A dozen 2019 first-round picks made their pro debuts in the AZL, with Abrams, Bobby Witt Jr. (Royals), Corbin Carroll (D-backs) and Kody Hoese (Dodgers) earning enough playing time to qualify for this prospect ranking. Other first-rounders passing through the league included Andrew Vaughn (White Sox), Hunter Bishop (Giants), Josh Jung (Rangers), Daniel Espino (Indians), Ethan Small (Brewers), Blake Walston (D-backs), Brennan Malone (D-backs) and Michael Busch (Dodgers).
