To take a quick break from how tough it's been for the big club for a while I thought I'd check on how some of the young pitching prospects in the system are doing. Check out the numbers on these 3:

(Name, Level, Age, ERA, IP, WHIP, K)
Perez AA 20 2.73 33 1.36 32
Erlin High A 20 2.25 36 0.50 40
Weiland High A 21 1.66 38 0.87 43

Now I don't know which leagues are considered pitchers' leagues, etc., but those numbers look pretty damn good to my amateur eyes. I always like to see prospects actually putting up great numbers. A lot of times it seems like they are developing a certain pitch, etc. so their numbers show it, but all of these guys are putting up solid numbers at such a young age. Anyone have any thoughts on these guys and their numbers? Am I being overly optimistic to think that a couple of them could really be the real deal? Could all 3 be the real deal?

Also saw these 2 guys aren't having bad years at Myrtle Beach either:

(Name, Level, Age, ERA, IP, WHIP, K)
Ross High A 21 3.31 32 1.19 27
Loux High A 22 3.19 31 1.06 38

It's good to dream, but remember that Holland put up numbers like that in the low minors, so it's not a lock that this kind of performance will result in a sure-thing TORP from any of those guys.

Although it would be great for all of these guys to turn into future TORP's, it is highly unlikely. The minor leagues and the show are two different animals and some guy can't handle the bright lights not to mention unforseeable injuries, trades, etc. As much as I hate to say it, we'll be lucky if just one of these guys turns into an "ace" caliber pitcher.

You're leaving out a guy who may turn out to be the best of the bunch in Neil Ramirez. The 2007 first rounder made a HUGE leap from single A ball all the way up to triple A for a spot start and pitched so well he hasn't returned. So far he's 3 -1 with a 3:30 era and thats AFTER a rough outing his last time out. This guy is one to watch.

Good point. Adding Ramirez in to the mix, I'm hopeful 2 of these guys turn out to be #1 or #2 type starters (Perez, Erlin) and then maybe another a bottom of the rotation guy. That, along with a more consistent Holland and Feliz could be nice. Maybe Kirkman and Harrison can become more consistent too.

A man can dream can't he!