While most prospect gurus rate Oscar Tavares the better prospect, Javier Baez is putting on a serious push to overtake the heralded Cardinal prospect for the National League prospect that could make the biggest fantasy impact in 2014.
Power unquestionably goes to Baez. An impressive 37 bombs between single and double A highlighted his 2013 campaign. Tavares was injured for most of last year, but his power is hidden by his age. 23 homers at age 20 in 2012 are solid by themselves, but Tavares’ 37 doubles that year are a sign of additional pop.
The stolen base tool also lands on the side of Baez. In 215 minor-league games entering 2014, Baez has accumulated 46 stolen bases. Tavares, on the other hand, has compiled only 34 swipes in 374 minor-league games
Tavares takes the batting average title decisively. A career .320 average with a solid 1.7/1 K/BB ratio foreshadows a solid rate of success as a major league hitter.
Baez's biggest area of concern has been his aggressive nature at the plate. He maintains a respectable .284 career minor league average, but a 4+/1 K/BB rate offers some hesitation to the most avid prospect hound.
It’s early, but Baez is hitting only .136 with a .208 OBP through his first seven games a Triple-A Iowa, while Tavares is hitting .192 with a .250 OBP at Triple-A Memphis.
If you are looking for a solid, respectable future-fantasy star with the upside of Adam Jones, then Tavares is your man. Count me on the side of Baez and dream of the Gary Sheffield prime years at a position, likely 2b, which he can dominate for years from a fantasy perspective.
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