Blue Jays: Two Jays make FanGraphs' Top 100 Prospects list

Just in time for the beginning of Spring Training games, FanGraphs has released its 2023 Top 100 Prospects list, and two Toronto Blue Jays minor leaguers made the cut this year.

Eric Longenhagen and Tess Taruskin compiled this year's list. It includes a scouting summary for each player with information from available data and industry sources, as well as their observations of the players.

So, which Blue Jay prospects did FanGraphs include?

LHP Ricky Tiedemann, No. 24

The first Blue Jay on the list isn't a big surprise, as he's been on every top prospect list this year. Coming in at number 24 is starting pitcher Ricky Tiedemann, whose scouting summary describes him as, "a physical lefty with mid-90s arm strength and a mind-bending slider, has become one of the minors’ highest-ceiling arms."

The 20-year-old standout is the highest-ranked pitcher in the second tier of the list. His 55 FV (Future Value grade) bodes well for his future growth into a successful big-leaguer. As Longenhagen and Taruskin explain, pitchers with a 55 or higher FV tend to have both monster stuff and good command.

Last season, between Single-A and Double-A, Tiedemann had a 5-4 record, with a 2.17 ERA and 117 SO in 78.2 innings. He obviously has the stuff but still hasn't faced Triple-A hitters yet, so as much as fans want to see the young pitcher in Toronto, there's a good chance we'll have to wait.

INF Addison Barger, No. 53

The second Blue Jay to make the list, in the number 53 spot, is shortstop/third baseman Addison Barger. Ranked in the third tier with a 50 FV grade, his scouting summary confirms that he "has huge left-handed bat speed and a shot to stay on the dirt, just not at shortstop."

With the recent news that Barger will see some time in the outfield this spring, there's a chance that he moves out of the infield altogether, at least temporarily, so the Jays can bring his big bat to the majors this season.

"His swing is a spectacle, lots of fun when he’s on time and frustrating when he’s late, utilizing a narrow, open stance and a huge leg kick. Barger can really cut it loose and is a threat to do damage on every swing. "

Longenhagen and Taruskin, FanGraphs

Last year, across three levels, the 23-year-old slashed an impressive .308/.378/.555, with 26 HR and 91 RBI in 124 games. With this type of production, FanGraphs thinks "there will be enough power for Barger to produce like an average regular in a multi-positional role."