José Martínez
Headlining the class is 18-year-old starting pitcher José Martínez from El Salvador, who was the 28th overall pick. Drafted out of college, Martinez has been assigned to Single-A Dearborn Heights, where he will join last year’s second round pick Harry Stewart in the rotation. Martinez is well regarded for his work ethic and adaptability. He throws four pitches, all projected to be plus offerings. His calling card is elite movement, a quality highly prized by Montreal.
Nikolaus Buser
The Blazers second round selection was 16-year-old Nikolaus Buser from Waco, Texas. An outfielder in high school, Montreal projects him as a first baseman in the pros. He’s a towering 200 cm (6’7”) tall and throws with his left hand, but bats from the right side and is more comfortable facing left-handed pitching. Scouts rave about his batting eye, which projects to 10/10. His hit and power tools are each above average, if not exceptional.
Francisco Ríos
With their third pick, they selected another 16-year-old, Francisco Ríos from New Jersey. He’s a center fielder with a good arm. Like Buser, he bats right and throws left. His hit and power tools are above average. If he can stick in center field, he projects as a major league regular, but he may not have the range to patrol Ubisoft Field’s center field.
Musamba Amiri
In the fourth round, the Blazers chose 18-year-old catcher Musamba Amiri out of South Africa. His catching ability is excellent, grading out at 8/10. His bat will ultimately determine his ceiling, as he struggles against right-handed pitching. Scouts like his makeup, complimenting his work ethic and intelligence.
Bill Crittendon
Fifth-rounder Bill Crittendon from California is 20 years old, with three years of college under his belt. He conforms to the Blazers profile, with excellent speed and power into the gaps, but his hit tool is merely average. As an outfielder, he’s comfortable in either corner and can play center in a pinch. Scouts praise his work ethic.
Cristo Manuel
Like Crittendon, sixth-round pick Cristo Manuel out of the Dominican Republic is a 20-year-old with three years of college experience. A mature hitter for his age, he’s been assigned to play first base for Single-A Dearborn Heights, where he is off to a good start, hitting .375/.429/.438 in his first 35 plate appearances. He has above average hit and power tools, and rarely strikes out.