Baseball Prospectus - Chat with Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects

Chat: Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects

Welcome to Baseball Prospectus' Monday February 25, 2013 11:00 AM ET chat session with Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects.

Jason answers all your questions about BP's Top 101 prospects of 2013.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: "Hey, dude, he's the stallion Yo, dude, he's the stallion Dude, he's the stallion." I have a game on the agenda in a few hours, so let's get started.

boatman44 (Liverpool): Jason, Do you still feel Nick Castellanos will be a 3rd baseman in the future or does he project well at a corner outfield spot ? thanks

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I think he's going to end up in the outfield.

Mike (Cincinnati): Oscar Taveras scares me as a non-Cardinal fan. If he reaches his ceiling, just how good is that going to be?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Taveras has the potential to be so good that the Maya return to glory and start chopping heads in his name to keep his blood-thirsty bat speed from eradicating the civilization. He could be that good.

Dave (Cleveland): Why don't you have a scouting report on Trevor Bauer?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Traded after Cleveland list and before Diamondbacks list. He will get added to the mix. I'll write up every player before we bid the ranking season adieu.

Zak (Champaign): It's funny you happened to tweet about your divorce, I happened to just listen to episodes 9-12 of the podcast when that news first broke. So, how's the divorce going?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Swimmingly.

Tim (St. Pete, FL): You have the lowest ranking of Boegaerts, questions on his projection to be an elite player or just like others better?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I think we have him ranked pretty high. I think he eventually moves to 3B; love the offensive potential; can handle SS for a bit. Role 7 type, which means I really like him. That's an all-star projection. That ain't no sippin tea

Schackmj (Hoboken): Should I be worried Wilmer Flores didn't crack the list?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I'd be worried if he did.

oldwolf (New Orleans): no Carlos Sanchez in the top 101?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Let me go back and check.....nope. Didn't see him on the list.

Mike (Cincinnati): Billy Hamilton: Average regular, All-star or Superstar?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Potential to be an all-star; catalytic player.

Mike (Cincinnati): I have a tough time believing there are 35 pitching prospects better than Robert Stephenson. He has one of the better pure arms in the minor leagues. What were the concerns that dropped him into the 70's of the rankings?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I wanted to enrage Reds fans. Also because I think Cincinnati chili is a condiment. Also, I like Stephenson a lot; wrote about him in the notes after the list.

laxtonto (wishing I was in Surpise): Out of the Rangers 6, who has the highest overall ceiling? What about overall for all players in the 101?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Alfaro has a freak ceiling. Buxton for me overall. He has the raw tools to be very special; high impact.

Cris E (St Paul, MN): When you call down to Houston for info do you stay with your old contacts or just go straight to Kevin G? How much do you guys stay in touch now that he's got different responsibilities?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: KG and I stay in touch; he's a good friend and always will be. But no, I don't ask him for info. We talk baseball, but I'm not looking to abuse his position and he's not looking to abuse his position.

Shawnykid23 (Newington, CT): In general, what positions are the most/least valuable to have a prospect at? I would SS as most and 1B as least?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I will continue to suggest that prospects that can stick at SS all the way up the chain are undervalued. I love up the middle talent; its hard to find. I think you nailed it: 1B.

Dave (Chicago): Can Grant Green become a solid everyday second baseman for the A's?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I'm not a believer, but he's a major leaguer with a chance to be a second-division type

CyMature (Cabin (Fever)): Bubba Starling: swing -and-miss because he's got holes in his swing or because he mocked the Gods of Pitch Selection?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Because he's a chiseled monument of a tooly prospect and nobody gets to have it all.

Trey (Greenville): Which SS in MiLB has the highest offensive upside, and what is it?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: If he can stick at SS (which I have my doubts), Bogaerts. It's the offensive potential. He could hit .300 and rip 30 HR at his peak. That's not normal. Of the guys that are guaranteed to stick at SS, you have to go with Profar. Role 7.

etrain (belfast): You are higher on Story than most - you must be a believer that he sticks at SS, but what else explains your ranking over the general consensus?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I really like up the middle talent. I think he can stick at SS and I think the bat can be better than league average at the highest level. That's a very valuable player.

David Bowie (Nastassja Kinski's left eyebrow): You compared Rafael Devers' swing to that of Cano. What is Devers' offensive upside and what's his defense like?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: His defense is terrible, and he doesn't profile well at 2B or 3B. I like the swing; it has Cano qualities. But its a stretch to put him on that level. I think the bat has impact potential, but he's probably a LF in the end, so the bat will really have to play for him to be a monster.

kojomoe (oakland): Dorssys Paulino, Adalberto Mondesi, and Luis Sardinas. Who rises the most over the next year and who has the highest offensive ceiling?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Mondesi and Sardinas as legit SS prospects; Paulino is most likely a 2B in the end. Paulino has a nice bat; good contact and pop; Mondesi doesn't have a big power ceiling, but can drive the ball and will hit for average; Sardinas is a line-drive type that could hit .300 because of his 7 run. I like Mondesi as the all-around prospect.

Joe Hogan (FL): Does Wilmer Flores have the range and athleticism to play 2B in the major leagues?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I don't think so.

csmith06 (NC): Hi Jason, Love the depth and detail of these scouting reports. Just to clarify, is this list of top 101 prospects based upon real baseball potential, or fantasy baseball potential? Thanks!

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: The only fantasy I engage in involves Tom Verducci and a bottle of liquor. It's all real baseball potential.

Frank (Singapore): Jason, as a Pirates fan, can't complain at all with the 5 Bucs ranked. But let's be greedy for a minute - how close was Josh Bell to the top 101?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: He wasn't close.

CyMature (Cabin (Fever)): Is Lewis Brinson this year's Jordan Akins? Can Jordan Akins recover and become next year's Lewis Brinson?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: They both have tools, but they aren't that similar. Brinson has feel and baseball skills and Akins is a D1 football player that just happens to be on a baseball team.

ttt (Manhattan): What do you think was the part of the top 10s/101s that was unexpectedly more difficult or easier than you anticipated? Are you still in NYC? Will you be able to get out to enjoy the weather?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Ranking players on teams that we had yet to cover on the Top 10s was incredibly difficult.

I'm in AZ for spring training.

Behemoth (Scotland): Did Roman Quinn get any consideration?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Not really. He's very fast. Big questions about the bat.

captchris (England): Just wondering the reasoning behind the slump in position of Jedd Gyorko (57 last year to 84 this year).

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I don't like his body and I have a body bias. I'm being honest.

jstrohman (Chicago): How close was Vogelbomb to making the top 101?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I like his bat. I don't like his body and I don't like his positional value, but I do like his bat. If he can hit, it won't matter. He was in consideration for the 101

Ben (SF): You seem to really love Addison Russell but you still have Albert Almora four spots higher. What gives Almora the edge?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I like them both. Four spots doesn't really mean much. I might put Russell higher today; Almora higher tomorrow.

Bob (AZ): Adam Eaton will have a more productive career than ___ players on the list, but that's ok because I love young toolsy players a million miles from MLB, right?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: More than half

Saintly Steven (Puerto Rico): Arodys Vizcaino is viewed as a SP by the Cubs brass, considering the success rate of TJ do you think it's possible he's a top 20 guy next year with a strong 2013? A front-line MLB starter? Way too many sleeping on this arm! Thanks Prof and appreciate the ranks! #sparkle

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: He's a reliever. I don't see a starter, and most of the sources for the Cubs list felt the same way.

boatman44 (Liverpool): Was Matt Adams close to breaking into your top 101 ? thanks.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Not really. I like the bat, but he has to hit a ton at the ML level to have value. Not sure he's a top 101 guy.

Saintly Steven (Puerto Rico): Kyle Crick have the stuff to thrive in highA and be a candidate to really surge up the ranks in 2014?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Yes. Might end up a closer in the end, but I really like the arm. Top prospect in Giants system.

davidrawnsley (Omaha): Jason, I did a cross study on your list, BA's and MLB.com's and there was one thing in common to all three lists that really surprised me. No Joey Gallo on any of the lists! I know there are still contact worries but he hit for unprecedented power as a pro, just as he ALWAYS has before. Oh, he he throws 100 off the mound, too. Surely there's room on someone's top 100 for a guy with 80 power and an 80 arm and who performs. Thanks!

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Legit power; arm is very strong but it doesn't play as an 80; big questions about his contact ability and his glove.

David Darrell (CA): Why didn't Robbie Erlin make the list? Dude's just a pitcher.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I really like Erlin. You can make the case. He lacks upside, but his pitchability is near elite.

Brian Dennehy (Jerkwater, USA): Do you see Tony Cingrani in the back-end of a rotation or a bullpen? The reports I've seen of his stuff doesn't seem to equate with his accomplishments. I don't know what I'm looking at.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I think he ends up in the pen, but has some impact potential

The Dude (DC): Does Lucas Giolito have Ace potential? If so, how scary of 1-2 punch would Strasburg & Giolito be?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: He might. He has crazy upside.

Schackmj (Hoboken): Will Spurs jump Chelsea today?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: They better or I'll flip a car over and set it on fire.

Joelskil (Haifa): You have Kevin Gausman ranked higher than any other list I've seen. What do you like so much about him?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: His smile and his calm approach to friendship.

Brady Childs (Ruston, Louisiana (Preparing for Final)): What did Julio Teheran do to deserve a 47 point drop? I thought he was back to his old mechanics and that his stuff was back to what it was before.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: His breaking ball didn't get the memo. If it does, he will be a force. If it doesn't, he won't.

Saintly Steven (Puerto Rico): I know it's typical ST stuff, but young Taijuan says he is throwing a new spike CB...how does that work with his repertoire?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: It's a good pitch to change sight lines and offer an added dimension to the arsenal. But its a very difficult pitch to command. It's not an easy pitch to throw into the mix.

boatman44 (Liverpool): Why is everyone down on pure first basemen ? , poor souls , no wonder they eat too much.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Because they have to hit a ton to have value.

Aquaman (Tyler): Just saw a picture of Jairo Beras. He's an enormous human being. Thoughts?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: He's a very large human; needs to add more strength and mass to frame; huge power potential; not sure if he can hit or not. Too early to tell.

Big Z (atlanta): Jorge Bonifacio or Maikel Franco? Did either get much consideration?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I like both; both were on my initial list. Both have quick bats and good raw pop

Jered (FLA): I noticed your down on 1B b/c it requires them to hit a lot, and that reflects on the list, with only one ranking. However, that one (Singleton) is pretty high; do you just REALLY love the bat? Proximity to Majors help?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Proximity to majors and a very serious offensive profile, with plus hit/power tool potential.

Shawn (CT): Do you ever provide updates over the summer on where you're catching games (wondering if you will coming to my hood to check out New Britain)?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I'll be all over the place

Spirou (Montreal): Is Jackie Bradley overhyped ?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: No. High quality up the middle talent. He might not be hyped enough.

Jon (A desert town to the west of Idaho): Gary Brown :sadface: Was he even close?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: No

Mark Appel (Stanford): If I signed with Pitt, based on what you saw at Stanford, would I have been on this list?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Probably, but I'm not that sold on you.

achaik (ME): Many lists have Gausman and Zimmer flipflopped in various fashions. Whats your reasoning behind Gausman ahead of Zimmer?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I think he has better stuff. It's close, but the reports on Gausman have been crazy.

Alex Meyer (MN): I am so sad. You ranked me at #88. Why?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Because you checked the "no" box when I asked you to the prospect cotillion.

Bret (Toronto): Before he was drafted, I remember Jackie Bradley Jr. got compared frequently to Denard Span. Does that still hold up?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I don't see it.

andtinez (Houston): Serious scouting question here... How would you rate your divorce and how would you rate your skills needed to have a loving marriage? I'm asking for a friend.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: My divorce sucks and the process sucks. My skills for a loving marriage....let's see....I do lengthy baseball chats on the internet, I have a fascination with the chest hair pics of masculine C-list celebrities, I spend months away from home watching baseball, and I'm generally considered to be slightly crazy. I'm a catch.

Tim (NJ/AZ): Will you be watching any WBC games while you're out in AZ? Do the stars playing for their countries provide a bigger opportunity for prospects to get more playing time in Spring Training?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I will be watching when I can. I'd rather see players in camp working with their teams.

Saintly Steven (Puerto Rico): I too share the #coleluv. Not many pitchers can boast those kinda grades on 3-4 different pitches. Could it all come together for Gerrit Cole in the bigs?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: If it does he has a chance to be a legit number one, which I don't say very often.

Brady Childs (Ruston, Louisiana): Comparing your list with BA (I know, snapshots, different information) and looking for big differences, I see that Lance McCullers, Adam Eaton, and Avisail Garcia aren't even on your list. Why so?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Because I don't value them as highly as some; different reasons for each player, but its not like they suck because they don't land on a prospect list. As I've said, you can make a case for 100 players for the final 50 spots.

jmaas14 (Illinois): Your list seems to be the only one I can find that has Almora ranked ahead of Baez (I know its two spots, so not really huge difference). What puts Almora ahead in your opinion? Is he a safer bet to become a major leaguer than Baez?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Baez comes with a huge risk. The upside is ludicrous speed, but his approach is wild and he could flame out early. Almora is one of the safer HS players in a while. Role 6 upside at a moderate risk.

Ryan (Dallas): Don't really have a question, just a statement that this chat has been #wet and and full of #want

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Thanks. I'll go another hour but then I need to hit the fields. Watching the Rockies today.

doog7642 (Blaine): Will we get to see a league-wide ranking of top talents under 25?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Sure. We can do that.

Bill Brasky (Chicago): Hey Jason, thanks for chatting! You said that you would have Addison Russell higher in your rankings if you could re-do them. I know you hate to make a revision, but where could you see him on the list if you made this update?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Easy top 20; not top ten quite yet. Chance to be in top 5 after 2013 season.

Spirou (Montreal): What are the odds of Anthony Rendon being successful in switching to second base ?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I don't like it. Let's take a guy with a history of ankle injuries and put him at a position that is physically taxing. Not sold on that.

Brady Childs (Ruston, Louisiana): Do you see Reymond Fuentes or Donovan Tate ever bouncing back? You're fielding these questions better than Teixeira at first. Keep it up.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I don't.

brian206 (Brooklyn): At least tell us you went the route of Jessa on Girls and married some rich finance type for a couple of months

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I woud entertain the idea.

Charlie (Bethesda, MD): How bout #coleluv for A.J. Cole? How close was he? Think he'll rebound?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I don't know. I think he could be on the list. He's a legit prospect. I just wasn't feeling it at the time.

Saintly Steven (Puerto Rico): We had a brief enough glimpse at Rubby De La Rosa in 2011 for him to lose his rookie/prospect status, but what are thoughts on his future? Reportedly hit 100mph several times yesterday...

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: He has a great arm; no doubt. I still think he ends up as a flame-thrower in the 'pen, and that will be fun to watch.

kramer (anytown): in terms of all the comps you've heard/read/smelled for player a to player b, which would you say is the most true? taveras to vlad?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I don't mind that one. I don't really like comps. I need a good Verducci comp....

Ryan (Dallas): What are your thoughts on Brad Miller? Sickels hearts him, some others don't seem to acknowledge him. Can he stick at SS and is the hit tool real?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: It's okay. Not an impact talent for me. He has good numbers, which explains some of the love. He's a big leaguer, but I don't see anything more than 2nd div

Kevin (SF Bay Area): When a team drafts a toolsy player like Bubba Starling there is obvious risk. Do they factor in the fallback option of converting him to a pitcher if he fails to hit?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I doubt it. He's a position player all the way ray

Klochner (MN): JO Berrios: 1 good year or 3 inches away from this list?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: 2 inches away

Brady Childs (Ruston, Louisiana): I know Ryan Lavarnway was never that high of a prospect with KG (peaking at 99 in 2012) but I've heard from some people that actually liked him more than Montero. He hasn't had a lot of playing time yet, but should we expect anything out of him anytime soon?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I'm not the biggest Montero lover, but I like him a lot more than Lavarnway. It's not close for me.

temple (madison): Adalberto mondesi if I'm willing to wait would you recommend him over david Dahl as a draft in a dynasty league. Is there more risk but a higher ceiling with mondesi

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: One of the highest ceilings in the minors given his ability to play SS at a high level. But he's a looooong way off.

Saintly Steven (Puerto Rico): Is John Lamb a guy to watch this spring? He seems largely forgotten about, though I am not sure if you were ever that high on Lamb? Many were though-

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I was never high on Lamb. KG set up a shrine to Lamb and I never understood it. I do like his body art. I saw him yesterday. He was 85-87 with FB; upper 60s with CB; low 70s with CH; Was able to throw strikes, but arm strength wasn't there yet. He can be a quality major league arm, but when was the last time he flashed decent velo? I'm not sold.

Miguel Sano (MN): Last year, KG rank me #12. In this year, I dropped to #21. I am so sad. Did you think me not a good prospect?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: No. I ranked you number 21 in the entire minors but I don't think you are a good prospect. Cmon, bruh

Klochner (MN): If this prospect cotillion was a real thing, who would be your date?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I'd ask Taveras but keep Lindor in the loop just in case...

Ryan (Dallas): You can pick one arm between Wheeler and Fernandez and one bat from Boegarts and Sano...which two do you take?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I'd take Wheeler and I'd take Bogaerts.

justiniodiddly (Chi): We're used to being limited to one, but 0 in the top 101? Where art thou Courtney Hawkins?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I'm not sure where he is. He was close to making it. Was on initial list.

rangermad (tx): Where would Leonys Martin rank if eligible?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Top 101. Easy. Probably in 60-80 range

SC (Arcata, CA): Billy Hamilton seems to somewhat confound prospect hounds as he's got such a wide range of outcomes from useful bench player to dynamic catalyst. Can you think of another prospect at his point in development with such potentially varying outcomes?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Puig comes to mind. He could be a first-division corner bat hitting 30 bombs a year or he could completely flameout. Same with Baez. He's an all-star or he's not getting out of Double-A

Alan Rickman (Nakatomi Plaza): Which prospect on this year's Top 101 best compares to me?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Man, that's tough. Your face is special; your charisma is beyond words. I can't answer.

John (Seattle): I gotta be honest, you love 17 year old Dominican prospects who are 9 years away from their prime, more than any other prospect evaluator I'm aware of.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Thanks.

HPJoker (Ruston, Louisiana): The White Sox don't have single top prospect and the Angels only have one. Are there any guys in either of those sytems that could break the Top 100 next year?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: White Sox have more talent ready to step up and be counted next year than the Angels. Their system isn't very good. I really like Cowart, but then it gets thin.

Eddie Rosario (MN): KG ranked me #87 lat year. Why I am not in your Top 101?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Because I was able to list 101 players that I liked more than you. I don't love your profile. You have tools, but how high do they play?

Nick (KC): What does Cheslor Cuthbert need to do to this year to make everyone forget about his lethargic play in Wilmington and make the Top 101 for 2014?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Stay healthy and continue the maturation process (on and off the field). Way too early to give up on the player.

Teacher (Chico): Not that I believe they are deserving, but were C.J. Cron or Nick Maronde of the Angels anywhere near the Top 101?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: They weren't anywhere near it, which just means they weren't in the discussion.

Chuck (NYC): Your rankings and responses scream "I'm smug", when compared to the rest of the baseball community. Gun to her head, does your mom think so too?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: She probably would if she didn't die 20 years ago.

alexknapik (DeKalb): How much to get you to give a keynote speech at my fantasy draft? Travel expenses included of course.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Wait, you live in DeKalb? Can't make it, but I can think of someone in the area....

Milby (SF): If a Texas genie appeared and could guarantee a healthy Anthony Rendon for the next 5+ years, would that move him up 15 or so spots?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Absolutely. I love the bat speed; controls it well; natural feel for contact; gap power. He's a dude, but can he stay on the field? Big if.

jdmurphy (New York): Can Eddie Rosario become an above-average defender at 2B?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I don't see it, but the raw tools make it a possibility.

Greg (Albany, NY): You've always loved Jorge Alfaro's swing, but at what point do you expect him to learn to take a walk?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I'm not sure he will ever be a big walk guy. He likes to swing. It's not the best approach, but as long as he can work himself into good hitting conditions and execute if given the opportunity, I don't need him to walk a ton.

Ryan (Dallas): Still a long way away from top 100 contention, but have you seen Ronald Guzman in person this spring? Are the reports true about him bulking up quite a bit?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: He didn't bulk up. He's lanky 18-year-old kid that added some meat to the frame. Its not crazy meat either. He is starting to fill out. It's something I expected to see at some point. He works his ass off.

NateR (Levittown Pa): Given your professed love of up the middle talent and upside, I'm wondering if Blake Swiwart might have been in consideration for the last few slots?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Yes. Thanks to the extreme prospect knowledge of Chris Mellen, I do hold a high opinion of Swihart.

NateR (Levittown Pa): Given your professed love of up the middle talent and upside, I'm wondering if Blake Swiwart might have been in consideration for the last few slots?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Yes. Thanks to the extreme prospect knowledge of Chris Mellen, I do hold a high opinion of Swihart.

kramer (anytown): favorite prospect that no one is talking about?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I have a prospect bulge for Miguel Almonte. I'm probably too high on him. I wanted him for the 101. I had to be sedated.

Matt (NJ): Any chance we'll get a diary to Patricia this year? really enjoyed that writing.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Thanks. I loved doing it. I'm focused on my regular prospect work at present: player rankings, team rankings, etc. But maybe I'll drop her a quick note before camp is over. I'm single now, so you never know.....

hknova (Hong Kong): Andrew Heaney lacking the upside for you or are you not so sure he is a sure thing to even reach that back of the rotation level that many see him very likely reaching.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: He was in the running for the list. I like him.

Behemoth (Scotland): Which rankings caused the most debate internally and why?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Oddly enough, the high floor types like Straily.

Kai (SLO): JR Graham in the 60s? That seems higher than I have seen before, what makes him rank so high? (as a braves fan i definitely like it)

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: He has nasty stuff and I like his chances of developing into a number three type.

Mason Williams (New York): Thanks for the chat, Jason. Byron Buxton, Bubba Starling, Mason Williams and Jackie Bradley, Who has loudest tools? Who can be superstar?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Buxton, Starling, Williams, and Bradley, but Bradley is safer bet to be impact player and Buxton has the highest ceiling.

Snoop (Bmore): Machado is not technically a prospect, but would you rather have Machado or Profar long term?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I love and hate this question. I would rather have Machado. I love his offensive upside. I think he could be a star. That's not to say Profar can't or won't. I would just take Machado. It's very close.

Chopper (Indy): Just joining the chat... what would you predict Francisco Lindor's offensive upside to be at his prime? Thanks!

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: ~.280 avg; good secondary skills; doubles pop; 6+ defensive profile at a premium spot

Kevin Goldstein (Lovely Dekalb, Illinois): How much input did I have in constructing your list?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: We didn't speak about it, actually. You have been busy. I bought you a fedora.

George Springer (Houston): George Springer vs Aaron Hicks. Who has louder tools and ceiling?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: HIcks and Hicks

jlarsen (Chicago): If Archer's stuff is NC-17 nasty, if Taylor Guerrieri performs to expectations or his ceiling...how nasty can/would he be?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: R rated with some sex scenes and general violence. Not appropriate for kids.

Chris (Long Island): Your fans miss the days of the Professor and the talented Mr. Goldstein entertaining & educating the baseball fan community onthe Up & In. I loved the episode when you explained the importance of hitting approach and singled out Paul Konerko for his advanced approach and ability to make pitch-to-pitch adjustments. Which position players in the Top 101 have the most advanced approaches at the dish?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Thanks. Profar's approach is incredibly mature. He tracks balls like a major league vet. Good example of his maturity: yesterday, with a runner on third and nobody out, Profar at the plate. Instead of going for the RBI with cheap contact or a cheap fly, Profar worked the count and wouldn't expand his zone and chase. He took the walk. It will read as a simple BB on the stat sheet, but from a scouting perspective, it told a detailed story about the approach. I was impressed. You just don't see young hitters doing that, especially early on in camp.

Tyrell Jenkins (STL): you actually have me on your list?!! I havent been getting love on these, what do you like about me?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: You have a very fast arm and very nasty stuff. You are raw and your mechanics get out of whack, but as a multi-sport athlete in high school that didn't focus on pitching until turning pro, you have a lot of room to improve. I love your upside. Also, you are a Texan.

Milby (SF): Gun to head, you have to pick one Hall of Famer from the list(this is not the BBWAA - you DO have to pick someone). Odd that your pick probably isn't the #1 listed prospect?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Profar or Taveras. Basic answer, but they have the potential to be very special.

DeathSpeculum (flavor country): hedges over zunino? will the bat play? and how will it play? more david hyde pierce or andrew dice clay?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Hedges is the superior defensive player. The bat should play, but he's not going to be a middle-of-the-lineup type. He's a tough out; works counts; has some pop. If he hits .270 with 10+ bombs and an 8 defensive profile he's a star.

bateman19 (Boston, MA): Jason, thanks for the list. On most lists Lindor and Baez seem to be neck and neck, with Baez having the better power and Lindor more the prototypical SS. Is your preference for Lindor based on a belief that Baez will be moved to 3b? Or something else?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Baez is boom or bust; Lindor safer bet and he is going to play SS at the highest level.

Next in Line (The Diamond): Propsect #102 would have been...?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Courtney Hawkins

Kevin (SF Bay Area): Assuming Taveras and Profar lose their eligibility who do you project to be the most special unicorn next year?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Russell or Buxton

Trevor May (MN): Last year KG ranked me #51. Now I fell out of Top 101. What happedend? Did I have a chance to be starter?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Who is KG?

John Carter (Toronto): How do you cope with people calling you smug and questioning your qualifications simply because you differ from other prospect lists? Trust me, many of us love your retorts and appreciate whatever unique points of view you contribute.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I'd be lying if I said it doesn't bother me, but I'm very familiar with it by now. My skin is thick, but you never get comfortable with any form of ad hominem attacks. I respect passion, and if you want to call me out, I can take it. I'm not against it. I'd rather keep it from getting too extreme or personal, but if you pay to read my work, I'm not going to whine about it too much. I'll take your business and continue to do what I do.

Keith Law (East Coast): Now that KG is gone, do I have to compare Top 100s with you?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: You don't have to, no. Your work is just fine without my commentary. Been in the game a while. High quality work.

Charlie (PA): How do you feel about Aaron Sanchez' chances of refining his control/command enough to reach his ceiling of a #2? Is he a #3 with even average control because of the stuff? Thanks Prof

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I think he can play loose, but he will obviously need to refine his command to find sustainable success. He's a lengthy kid, but the delivery is pretty easy and the release is abnormally easy. Great stuff. If he can harness it, he's very legit.

keithlrader (KC): Can you please share with us a poem you wrote in Adalberto's name?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I'll get to work on that soon

jlarsen (Chicago): What does Richie Shaffer have to do or prove to you that he deserves to be on the BP101?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Have a better overall profile and continue to rake. If the bat continues, he will be a top 101 guy.

Martin Kove (Brooklyn): Where would Manny Machado rank in your Top 101 for 2013 if eligible? Does the potential exist for .300 w/ 30-plus bomb peak years in his bat?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I think that's possible. He would be in the top 5 for me. I really like Machado.

jwschaefer (NJ): How much NCAA baseball do you plan on watching this year?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Whenever I can. I'll be in Surprise for the college tournament this week. Luckily, our partnership with the badasses at Perfect Game keep me in the college loop. #SweetTea Kendall Rogers is one of the best in the country when it comes to college baseball.

brian206 (Brooklyn): My wife takes the kids to her family in Chicago in the summer. Want to go to a Cyclones game?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Yes. I will go to a game with anyone. All the have to do is ask

Shibby (BK): Tremendous work on the Top 101, Jason. Any chance you might write up a few Top 5 Lists for best tools in the minors? Also best fastball, changeup, command, etc. among pitchers?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: We are working on that now. Should be a very cool series.

Jarred Cosart (HOU): is there anyway I stick in the rotation? or am I destined to be a closer that never lived up to my potential as a starter?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I think you are reliever, but you might have impact potential.

brian206 (Brooklyn): What are some of the names that you were most surprised to hear championed by the other BP guys for inclusion?

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: I found it weird that Chris Mellen wanted me to include 30 Red Sox prospects; Jason Cole 30 Rangers prospects; etc. In all seriousness, those guys were extremely valuable when constructing this list, along with everybody on the MilB team.

Jason Parks on the Top 101 Prospects: Guys, over 300 questions waiting in the queue, but I need to leave for the fields. Watching the Rockies today. If you are in the area, stop by. If you have questions or comments, please leave them on Twitter or the article [itself] and I will gladly take the time to answer. Big thanks for making all this possible. I really appreciate it. Lo mejor