2021 Phillies top 10 prospects list shows promise for future
By Matt Rappa
5. Rafael Marchan, C
Venezuela native catcher Rafael Marchan made his big-league debut this past season and did not disappoint, slugging his first professional career home run — a three-run shot that helped the Phillies edge the Toronto Blue Jays, 8-7, in the second game of a seven-inning, mid-September twin bill double-header.
The 21-year-old is most respected for his defense, as well as catch-and-throw skills, and is poised to be at least the long-term Phillies backup catcher for years to come.
4. Francisco Morales, RHP
The Phillies recently added pitcher Francisco Morales, along with five other prospects, to their 40-man roster as protection from this offseason’s Rule 5 Draft. Inked to the organization during the 2016-17 international signing period, the 6-foot-4 right-hander has logged 241 strikeouts through 194 1/3 innings and three levels in the system.
The Venezuela native’s pitching repertoire includes having a fastball that reaches the high 90s, a changeup that has depth, as well as a filthy slider and breaking ball — the latter pitch which induced a 30 percent swing-and-miss rate opposite South Atlantic League batters during the 2019 season.
Thirty-seven of Morales’ 50 professional appearances have come as a starter; the Phillies might view Morales as a candidate to enter at least the back-end of the rotation in the coming seasons.
3. Bryson Stott, SS
The Phillies drafted shortstop Bryson Stott in the first round, 14th overall, of the 2019 amateur draft out of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Growing up in the world-renowned Nevada city, Stott is already friends with fellow area native, star outfielder Bryce Harper.
The 23-year-old performed up to expectations during his first professional season last year, combined between the GCL Phillies East and Williamsport Crosscutters. Spanning 48 games and 193 plate appearances, Stott slashed .295/.391/.494 with nine doubles, three triples, six home runs, 27 RBI, 24 walks, and just 39 strikeouts.
Stott is surely a candidate to become the next everyday Phillies shortstop, and possibly is the reason why the Phillies seem to have been wary to commit to Didi Gregorius and others long-term at the position.