The latest edition of the MLB Pipeline's Prospect Team of the Week showcases the top performers in the Minor Leagues, with a special focus on the Braves' Dixon Williams, who had a remarkable week despite not being ranked among the top 30 prospects. Williams, a second baseman and outfielder, collected an impressive eight hits, five homers, and 16 RBIs across Saturday and Sunday's games, though he won't be included in this week's team due to his current ranking. The team features a mix of young talent, including a 17-year-old on the Top 100 list, and highlights the diverse skills of these prospects across various positions.
One standout performer is catcher Franklin Primera, who has been a consistent contributor for the Red Sox. At just 19 years old, Primera is the second-youngest catcher in the Carolina League, boasting a .333/.474/.509 slash line in 31 games. His ability to draw walks and control the strike zone is evident, as he has more walks (19) than strikeouts (17) at Single-A. Primera's recent hot streak includes a four-hit performance and a 41/33 walk-strikeout ratio, making him a player to watch in the Red Sox organization.
In the infield, Luis Fragoza of the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels stands out with his impressive right-handed power. The 6-foot-1 Venezuelan native has a .667/.800/1.583 slash line in five games, including three homers and a 5-for-12 performance. Fragoza's hard-hit rate ranks in the 73rd percentile of the Florida State League, indicating his ability to make consistent contact and drive the ball. His versatility, playing both infield corners and outfield spots, further adds to his value.
Aron Estrada, a 5-foot-11 second baseman for the Chesapeake Baysox, is experiencing a breakout season. Estrada, who typically has a hit-over-power profile, has hit five homers this week and is on pace to almost match his career total of 23 homers. His switch-hitting ability has been a key factor, as he has been more successful batting left-handed (.301/.331/.578) compared to right-handed (.248/.293/.312). Estrada's performance has been a pleasant surprise for the Orioles.
At third base, Sean Keys of the Buffalo Bisons continues to dominate with his right-handed power. Keys has a .455/.600/.909 slash line in six games, including three homers and a 10-for-22 performance. His ability to hit the ball extremely hard is evident, as half of his homers at Triple-A have gone at 110 mph or harder. Keys' consistency and power make him a valuable asset for the Blue Jays.
Welbyn Francisca, a switch-hitting shortstop for the Lake County Captains, has been on a tear. With 18 hits in his past 10 games, including four homers in five games, Francisca has boosted his High-A OPS to .960. His performance against righties (.286/.399/.584) and his ability to get everyday reps at shortstop make him a player to watch in the Guardians organization.
In the outfield, Francisco Renteria of the DSL Phillies has quickly lived up to the high expectations set by his $4 million signing. With a 1.159 OPS, 11 homers, and 34 walks, Renteria leads the Rookie-level Dominican Summer League. His plus speed and efficiency on the bases, with 24 steals on 28 attempts, make him a dynamic player for the Phillies.
Bo Davidson, an outfielder for the Sacramento River Cats, had a remarkable week, marking the end of his first month at Triple-A with a grand slam and a career-high eight RBIs. The 24-year-old, who signed as a non-drafted free agent, has a .560/.607/1.160 slash line in six games. His ability to make contact and drive the ball, along with his hard-hit rate, makes him a valuable addition to the Giants organization.
Dylan Dreiling, a 2024 second-rounder for the Frisco RoughRiders, has been a consistent performer in August. With a .524/.565/1.190 slash line in five games, including four homers, Dreiling has shown a balanced skill set. His ability to hit safely every game and pick up multiple knocks in four of five games highlights his consistency and power.
On the mound, Reinold Navarro of the Bradenton Marauders has stood out for his strikeout stuff. With a 1-0 record and a 0.00 ERA in five innings, Navarro has a 38.1 percent strikeout rate and a 21.4 percent walk rate. His pitches, including a fastball, slider, and changeup, have been difficult for hitters to make contact with, as evidenced by a sub-.200 average and a whiff rate above 40 percent.
David Davalillo, a 6-foot-1 right-hander for the Round Rock Express, has also been impressive. With a 0.00 ERA in six innings, Davalillo has struck out seven batters on five different pitches. His ability to pitch six innings for just the second time this year and his low pitch count showcase his pitchability and control.
Finally, Ty Johnson, a 6-foot-6 right-hander for the Durham Bulls, has been dominant in relief. With a 0.00 ERA in three innings, Johnson has a 50-50 fastball-slider combination that generates a high number of whiffs. His ability to develop his changeup and potentially start again in the future makes him a valuable asset for the Rays.
