If the strike ends tomorrow, nobody on the Double-A roster is going to jump up and save the Cubs from the disaster that has been the 1994 season. In fact, nobody at the Double-A level is going to be a big help anytime soon. But several players will make an impact sooner or later. Here’s a look at some of the prospects:
No. 1 picks:
Brooks Kieschnick (1993): Outfielder and ex-college pitcher is being converted to first base. Will play winter ball, spend ’95 at Triple A and could be ready for a callup next September. Homered and double …. Monday night, his third in six games.
Jon Ratliff (1993): Six-foot-four-inch right-handed pitcher has struggled this year, but is only 22 and shows great promise.
Derek Wallace (1992): Drafted as a starter, but found his niche as a closer. Just promoted to Triple A.
Doug Glanville (1991): Speedy outfielder has all the talent to play in the big leagues, just hasn’t shown the desire.
Others:
Kennie Steenstra: At 6-5, 220, he is imposing and has a winning record. Tends, however, to be an “uphill pitcher”-falling behind in counts and digging himself holes.
Ottis Smith: Left-handed pitcher who came with Anthony Young in the Jose Vizcaino trade should be around long after Young and his bad elbow are gone.
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Amaury Telemaco: Right-handed pitcher had to leave Sunday’s game with a sore arm, but leads the staff with two complete games and has allowed only 19 walks while striking out 48.
Brant Brown: First baseman-outfielder leads Orlando in doubles.
Mike Hubbard: Everyone is high on this solid-hitting catcher.
Chris Petersen: Slick-fielding shortstop who can’t hit a lick.
Scott Tedder: The sleeper at Orlando. Came over from the White Sox organization. Outfielder-first baseman has the best discipline at the plate of anybody in Orlando-or, for that matter, with the big-league Cubs.
Pedro Valdez: Good speed in outfield. Good bat. Just turned 21. Hit .302 with 15 homers on Class A level last year.