We all know about the most touted prospects in baseball: Shohei Ohtani, Ronald Acuna, Eloy Jimenez, etc.
But, what about the guys who just missed being ranked in the top 100?
Speaking purely in fantasy baseball teams, the guys just outside the top 100 — some that people may have never heard of — are the ones that you can get on the cheap and hold on to in hopes that they break through.
Here are three guys just outside the top 100 prospects that are worth holding on to for the long haul.
Shed Long, 2B – Cincinnati Reds
AA Stats: .281/.358/.477/16 HR/50 RBI, 9SB
Long has done nothing but exceed expectations since playing in High-A ball. He is now in his 3rd year after being removed from the catcher position, and his quick lefty swing has shown signs of brilliance. He has a small frame — only 5’8 and 180 pounds — but have no worry about his power. He has a slight uppercut swing that lifts the balls long and high. A season with 20+ dingers is expected on the regular.
Kyle Funkhouser, RHP – Detroit Tigers
A- and A+ Stats: 2.44 ERA/1.15 WHIP/83 Ks
Funkhouser decided not to sign with the Dodgers after being selected as the 35th overall pick, opting rather to finish his degree at Louisville. Unfortunately, his numbers dropped significantly during his senior year which allowed the Tigers to pick up him in the 4th round. And it has been a fantastic pick ever since for the Tigers. His fastball reaches into the upper 90s and his slider is about as nasty as they come. His sample size is relatively small however — just 64 innings because of elbow inflammation. He is already 23 but, if his numbers hold up as he moves through the ranks, he could be an absolute steal of a draft pick for the Tiger and for you in fantasy baseball.
Cedric Mullins, OF – Baltimore Orioles
AA Stats: .265/.319/.460/13 HR/37 RBI/9 SB
If Mullins first at bat of the season is any indication — a homerun — than he is on track for a fantastic season. He was quickly named minor league player of the week and it was encouraging to watch him make the necessary adjustments at the plate. However, nagging hamstring injuries curtailed his playing time to just 76 games. If he is able to return to top form, he is the future of left field for the Baltimore Orioles.
