Can the class of 2011 match last year’s group that included Buster Posey, Stephen Strasburg and Jason Heyward? Here are some of the league’s top rookies:
1. Aroldis Chapman, Cincinnati » The fireballing Cuban pitched only 13 1/3 innings during the regular season last year but had a serious impact on the Reds’ chase for a playoff spot. Will he learn from his blown save in the NLDS vs. the Phillies, and can he be the rookie of the year without becoming Cincinnati’s closer?
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2. Jeremy Hellickson, Tampa Bay » Hellickson has developed into one of the sport’s brightest prospects. The trade of Matt Garza to the Chicago Cubs opened a spot in a crowded rotation. Hellickson should grab it and become a solid part of what remains a quality group of starters as the Rays try to remain in contention.
3. Freddie Freeman, Atlanta » No idea how Atlanta keeps churning out quality prospects, but Freeman is another one. A sweet-swinging left-handed batter, he will be the starter at first base on Opening Day even though he doesn’t turn 22 until Sept. 12. No superstar ceiling but Freeman has a bright future.
4. Domonic Brown, Philadelphia » With Jayson Werth now in D.C., Brown was the heir apparent in Philadelphia. But a fractured right hamate bone will keep this dynamic outfielder out of the lineup for four-to-six weeks. The injury is notorious for sapping a player’s power for up to a year after surgery.
5. Kyle Drabek, Toronto » Son of former big leaguer Doug Drabek. He has a fine curveball already and made three appearances with Toronto as a late-season call-up. Drabek could still start in the minors but will impact the Jays’ rotation by season’s end.
