AT THE CENTER OF PROSPECT WORLD
The Texas League was renamed Double-A Central and added two teams, both of them coming from Triple-A. San Antonio and Wichita joined the league, the latter after relocating from New Orleans.
The league had two of the most talented teams in the minors this year. In the first half of the season, Northwest Arkansas’ roster stood out thanks to shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., first baseman Nick Pratto and catcher MJ Melendez.
After the Royals prospects moved to Triple-A, the Mariners’ affiliate in Arkansas became the team to watch thanks to the promotions of outfielder Julio Rodriguez, righthanders Matt Brash and George Kirby and lefthander Brandon Williamson.
Northwest Arkansas managed to win the Double-A Central championship even after losing so many stars to in-season promotions. The league as a whole was filled with impressive prospects. So much so that top-notch prospects like Pratto, Tulsa’s Michael Busch and Ryan Pepiot and Amarillo’s Ryne Nelson and Drey Jameson couldn’t crack the top 10.
1. Bobby Witt Jr., SS
Northwest Arkansas (Royals)
21. R-R. 6-1. 200. HS—Colleyville, TX,
