On Tuesday afternoon the Nationals and their fans got a glimpse of the future when phenom pitcher Stephen Strasburg, the No. 1 pick in the 2009 draft, took to the mound for his first spring training game. But he isn’t the only rising star in major league camps this spring.
Jason Heyward, Atlanta Braves » Actually ranked ahead of Strasburg by some Baseball America writers in their top prospect rankings. Were there really 13 teams — including the Nats — who passed on this kid in the 2007 draft? The 6-foot-4, 220-pounder is still just 20. Yet he tore through the minors and has shown the power and plate discipline needed to be the Braves’ Opening Day right fielder.
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Brian Matusz, Baltimore Orioles » The fourth pick in 2008 has nowhere near the power stuff of Strasburg. Matusz, 23, is lucky to hit 94 on a good day. But he knows how to pitch. He struck out four batters in his spring debut last week, including an epic 13-pitch at-bat against Tampa Bay star Evan Longoria. Poised and blessed with great command of his four pitches, including a devastating change-up.
Aroldis Chapman, Cincinnati Reds » The Nats lost a bidding war to the Reds in the offseason to acquire this 22-year-old Cuban talent. Has Strasburg-level stuff, hitting 100 mph in his scoreless spring debut last week — and he’s left-handed. He could start the year in Cincinnati, though some time in the minors to work on his command would be helpful. Chapman sometimes became rattled at the World Baseball Classic last spring when things went wrong.
Domonic Brown, Philadelphia Phillies » Somehow, the Phillies traded for Cy Young Award winner Cliff Lee last summer and didn’t have to give up their best prospect. The 22-year-old Brown is off to a blazing start in spring training with seven hits through Tuesday’s games. He has speed and power and also can make highlight-reel plays in the outfield. Brown has thrown out two baserunners from right field already. He’s likely headed for Double-A.
