Little tidbit bout the 2 main guys the Phils gave up to get Pence in Cozart and Singleton!
Cozart: The only thing keeping everyone from truly wild enthusiasm regarding Cosart is the fact that he's only managed to throw 95.2 pro innings up to this point due to various injuries. That's certainly a red flag, but the upside here is so substantial that I had to bump him to #2 on the list. Cosart has a true plus fastball, with reports having him touching as high as 98 on the gun, and his curveball is already a plus pitch as well. His 2010 performance was excellent -- 9.7 K/9, 2.0 BB/9, 0.38 HR/9, 59% GB, 2.47 FIP -- and he's athletic to boot, which will help him maintain his mechanics. At this point, the Texas flamethrower needs two things: (1) to hone his change up; and (2) to stay healthy and log innings.
JMO: Not much time in 3 years spent on mound! Coin flip on being a star or injury proned!
Singleton: In last year's rankings, I tried to temper my own personal excitement for Singleton, reasoning that: (a) he was an 8th round pick with only 100 pro at bats; and (b) the offensive bar is very high for first base prospects. Well, the big lefty had shattered that logic by his second week in Lakewood, dominating the circuit before wearing down physically in the season's second half. All told, his .288/.392/.477 full season debut was highly impressive, all the more so considering his age (he didn't turn 19 until after the season) and his precocious approach at the plate (13.8% BB, 19.7% K). A bat like that will play anywhere, but the thinking now is that Singleton is athletic enough to try his hand at the outfield, which can only help his stock.
JMO: This guy could be a real star but can only play 1st base! The Phillies have a 1st baseman!
After Ed Wade gets fired expect him to be on the Phillies payroll next year if he isn't already on it! Guy I think still lives in Philly!
