Here are some Phillies minor-leaguers worth keeping an eye on. (With their ages on opening day.)
C Lou Marson, 22 - The system's top catching prospect will play at triple A. Scouts say they'd like to see more from his throwing arm.
RHP Carlos Carrasco, 22 - "There's a tendency to undersell Carrasco," said John Manuel of Baseball America. "But a lot of clubs would like to have him as their top pitching prospect."
INF Jason Donald, 24 - Regular infielder or super sub? The answer could be clearer after he plays at triple A.
OF John Mayberry Jr., 25 - He brings power potential to the upper levels.
RHP Kyle Drabek, 21 - The righthander has power stuff and an excellent breaking ball. He's healthy and could get to double A quickly.
OF Dominic Brown, 21 - The former Miami football recruit "is the kind of athlete we don't see often in our sport," assistant GM Chuck LaMar said. "He's not a football player playing baseball. He's a baseball player who is a gifted athlete." Brown, who projects as an impact big-leaguer, could get to double A this season.
OF Michael Taylor, 23 - He was the most improved player in the system last year. He's a productive power bat headed for double A.
OF Zach Collier, 18 - A strong hitter, he reminds scouts of a young Garret Anderson. Could be ready for single-A Lakewood.
RHP Jason Knapp, 18 - This big, power-armed righthander passed up a North Carolina scholarship last summer. Could be ready for single-A Lakewood.
RHP Julian Sampson, 20 - This power-armed righthander, who was scouted by Pat Gillick, led the organization with 11 wins last year. Could open at single-A Clearwater.
RHP Vance Worley, 21 - The polished righthander could open at double A.
RHP Michael Stutes, 22 - "He has an electric arm," LaMar said. Could go to double A.
LHP Joe Savery, 23 - Velocity slipped last season, but he still has significant upside. He should open at double A.
C Travis D'Arnaud, 20 - Drafted for his defense, he showed prowess with the bat last season. He rates as the No. 2 catching prospect behind Marson.
- Jim Salisbury
