The Athletics' Prospect List Just Got More Exciting: Tommy White Secures the 12th Spot!
In a thrilling turn of events, Tommy White has finally clinched the 12th position on our Community Prospect List (CPL) after a nail-biting round of voting. But here's where it gets controversial—while many expected White to eventually shift to first base as he climbed the minor league ranks, the A’s are doubling down on his development at third base. Could this be a game-changer for his value? Only time will tell. And this is the part most people miss: White’s bat has already exceeded expectations, but his defensive growth at the hot corner could be the key to unlocking his full potential.
To make the nomination process smoother, I’ll post a comment labeled “NOMINATIONS”, where you can reply with your picks and upvote the player you’d like to see on the next list. Let’s keep the momentum going!
Meet the New Nominee: Zane Taylor
Joining the CPL ballot is right-hander Zane Taylor, a fifth-round draft pick from last year. Despite limited pro experience—just two scoreless innings in Triple-A—Taylor’s command of the strike zone and polished mechanics suggest he could rise quickly through the system. While he lacks elite stuff, his ability to locate pitches and generate weak contact could make him a reliable back-end starter. But here’s a thought-provoking question: Can a pitcher without top-tier velocity truly thrive in today’s power-hitting era? Let’s debate that in the comments!
How the Voting Works
Before you cast your vote, here’s a quick rundown of the process:
- Vote for One Player: The nominee with the most votes secures the ranked spot. The remaining four move to the next ballot alongside a new nominee.
- Nominate Players: In the comments, suggest players for the next round using the format “Nomination: Player Name.”
- Trades & Acquisitions: If a prospect is traded, their name will be crossed out, and others will move up. New acquisitions will trigger a special vote to determine their ranking.
A’s Top Prospects, Ranked
- Leo De Vries, SS
- Jamie Arnold, LHP
- Gage Jump, LHP
- Wei-En Lin, LHP
- Braden Nett, RHP
- Henry Bolte, OF
- Johenssy Colome, SS
- Edgar Montero, SS
- Steven Echavarria, RHP
- Devin Taylor, OF
- Mason Barnett, RHP
- Tommy White, 3B
Nominee Spotlight
Zane Taylor, RHP
Expected Level: Double-A | Age: 23
2025 Stats (AAA): 0.00 ERA, 1 start, 2 IP, 4 K, 2 BB, 0 HR, 2.97 FIP
MLB Pipeline Scouting Report: Taylor’s fastball gained 3 mph this spring, sitting 92-95 mph and touching 98. While it lacks life, his command makes it effective. His low-80s changeup fades and sinks, grading as a solid pitch. Though his slider and curveball lack elite spin, they generate chases and empty swings. His drop-and-drive delivery creates a deceptive release point, making his pitches harder to track. With a history of throwing strikes, Taylor has a high floor as a back-end starter.
Shotaro Morii, SS/RHP
Expected Level: Low-A | Age: 19
2025 Stats (Rookie Affiliate): .258/.399/.384, 8 doubles, 1 triple, 3 HR, 27 RBI, 36 BB, 47 K, 4 SB
MLB Pipeline Scouting Report: Morii boasts a smooth left-handed swing with impressive balance and power potential. On the mound, his fastball touches 95 mph, and his splitter has nasty movement. While some see him moving to third base as he fills out, the A’s plan to develop him as a two-way player. His fresh arm and impressive physical tools make him a fascinating prospect.
Henry Baez, RHP
Expected Level: Triple-A | Age: 23
2025 Stats (Double-A): 2.39 ERA, 23 starts, 109 IP, 100 K, 35 BB, 3 HR, 3.19 FIP
MLB Pipeline Scouting Report: Baez’s fastball has touched 99 mph, typically sitting around 94 mph. His curveball and split-change complement his heater well, with the curve producing a 47% miss rate. His improved control and ground-ball rate enhance his starting potential. Could the A’s fast-track him to the majors in a relief role? It’s a possibility worth exploring.
Gunnar Hoglund, RHP
Expected Level: Triple-A/Majors | Age: 26
2025 Stats (Triple-A): 2.43 ERA, 6 starts, 29.2 IP, 30 K, 7 BB, 3 HR, 4.17 FIP
2025 Stats (Majors): 6.40 ERA, 6 starts, 32.1 IP, 23 K, 11 BB, 10 HR, 6.75 FIP
MLB Pipeline Scouting Report: Hoglund’s fastball velocity has returned to the low-90s, and he’s added a two-seamer and cutter. His sweeping slider and improved changeup give him a solid three-pitch mix. Three years post-Tommy John, the A’s hope he can develop into a reliable back-end starter, especially if he adds a fourth pitch.
Cole Miller, RHP
Expected Level: Single-A | Age: 20
2025 Stats (ROK, Single-A): 1.90 ERA, 12 starts (15 appearances), 52 IP, 45 K, 11 BB, 1 HR, 3.38 FIP
MLB Pipeline Scouting Report: Miller’s fastball touches 96 mph with excellent movement, and his mid-80s slider shows promise. His low-80s changeup has potential as an average third pitch. With a 6-foot-6 frame and competitive fire, Miller has the makings of a big-league workhorse. His professional debut this summer has the organization buzzing.
Programming Note: Each CPL vote runs for approximately 48 hours, so don’t delay—cast your vote now! And don’t forget to join the discussion in the comments. Who do you think will be the next breakout star? Let’s hear your thoughts!
