The 2008 Top Ten Mets Merized Prospects (1-5)

1. Fernando Martinez – At only 19 years of age, F-Mart just keeps moving closer and closer to the Major Leagues’ with every mighty swing of the bat he takes. While some still doubt his ability, he has convinced many scouts that he is indeed the real deal. Currently, he has been spotted launching rockets in Winter Ball. The Juan Gonzalez comparisons will leave many Mets fans drooling including this one.

 

2. Jon Niese – This prized lefthander got a sip of coffee with the Mets last year and showed some guts and guile. He has two plus pitches and a decent changeup. He rocketed through AA, AAA and ultimately the Majors last season, while compiling some impressive stats. A little more seasoning and he could be a solid number three pitcher for the Mets by 2010, and maybe a number two pitcher by 2011.  

 

3. Brad Holt – I love this kid. The young right hander throws extremely hard and was virtually unhittable in first professional season in Brooklyn. He turned many a scout’s head as he piled up the strikeouts. He probably could emerge as the real Mets closer of the future if the Mets don’t overwork that precious arm of his. We need to come up with a nickname for him really quick… How about the Flushing Flash? Oh damn, that one was already taken! 

 

4. Wilmer Flores – Will turn 18 years old next season, and already he has rocketed up the Mets top prospects list. While many have him ranked at number one or two, I’m going to wait and see what tricks he has up his sleeve next season before ranking him that high just yet. The Mets have him playing shortstop and he has been compared to Miguel Cabrera and Hanley Ramirez. He’s 6′ 3″ and still growing… Oh my… 

 

5. Bobby Parnell – Parnell continues to develop, but it’s still unclear if he will be a starter or a reliever. The Mets have pushed him through three levels including the Majors, but his performance has never warranted such action. He has toiled through Advanced A in 2006 with a 4.87 ERA, AA in 2007 with a 4.77 ERA, repeats AA in 2008 with a 4.34 ERA, gets promoted to AAA 6.64 ERA, and the Mets 5.40 ERA. He has great stuff but continuously allows more hits than innings pitched at every level.