NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA, CFL stats



 Chattanooga Lookouts

Look Inside for Great Holiday Specials

November 30, 2016 - Southern League (SL1)
Chattanooga Lookouts News Release


For a quarter-century, the Arizona Fall League has helped the top Minor League talent in the game get ready for the big leagues. It's done so with remarkable consistency, sending more than 60 percent of its alumni to the highest level.

The AFL has produced 247 players who have earned roster spots in the All-Star Game, including 33 in last year's Midsummer Classic. There have been 16 MVPs (Mike Trout is a two-time winner), seven Cy Young Award winners and 27 Rookies of the Year to come through the league since it started in 1992.

The recently concluded 2016 edition of the AFL will be no different. Graduates of this silver anniversary class could very well go on to become All-Stars and Hall of Famers, much like Mike Piazza (inaugural AFL Class of '92) did. Who they'll be is a matter of debate.

It is from that conversation that "The Next Big Leaguers" was born. As part of MLBPipeline.com's coverage of all things prospect and the AFL in particular, a group of five experts was assembled to discuss a quintet of up-and-coming stars. Each prospect has lofty expectations and an argument can be made for all of them to have the brightest futures. Those arguments were hashed out in "The Next Big Leaguers."

Nick Gordon, SS (Twins)

Another son of a big leaguer, Nick is Tom's kid and Dee's brother. Gordon stands out for his incredibly high floor, rather than any one individual loud tool. He does everything well, particularly his knack for making consistent hard contact and piling up base hits. He's also a sure-thing shortstop. He might not have the most upside of this group, but he's the safest bet to have a very long and productive career as an everyday big leaguer.

Ferrin's take: "While there isn't one standout tool, he does run well, he plays very solid defense at shortstop, he has a strong enough arm for the position and there are bat-to-ball skills that are going to allow him to transition into a typical top-of-the-order leadoff hitter."

Lookouts Season Tickets are the best value at the Park. By becoming a Lookouts Season Ticket Holder you save over 30% off the Gameday Price while also taking advantage of other exclusive perks including 20% off at the Lookouts Team Store, early entrance to all home games and many more! Plans start at just $295!

Visit us at Lookouts.com


• Discuss this story on the Southern League message board...

Southern League Stories from November 30, 2016


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central