Who Has Better Top 5 Prospects, Astros or Rangers?

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Round 3: Vincent Velasquez versus Jorge Alfaro

Aug 2, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; A general view of a Houston Astros hat and glove in the dugout during a game against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Vincent Velasquez-RHP (ETA 2016). Velasquez has fought health issues throughout his early career, including Tommy John surgery. He was drafted by the Astros in the 2nd-round of the 2010 draft by the Astros. He sits in the low 90’s, but must stay healthy. In 2014, Velasquez did have some health issues, but looked good in the Arizona fall league.

2014 Stats (2-teams): 7-5/ 3.52 ERA/ 64 IP/ 91 SO/ 1.17 WHIP.

From MLB Pipline (83rd overall);

Scouting grades: Fastball: 60 | Curveball: 50 | Change-up: 60 | Control: 50 | Overall: 55

Aug 7, 2014; Frisco, TX, USA; Frisco Rough Riders designated hitter Jorge Alfaro (8) bats during the game against the Springfield Cardinals at Dr Pepper Ballpark. Springfield beat Frisco 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Jorge Alfaro-c/1b (ETA 2016). Alfaro has the best arm and power for a catcher in baseball. Even though his arm is great, he has some improvements to make as a receiver. He was signed by the Rangers in 2010 from Colombia for 1.3 million signing bonus.

2014 Stats (3 teams): 0.271/ 78 runs/ 22 home runs/ 89 RBI/ 4 stolen bases.

From MLB Pipeline (45th overall);

According to Baseball Prospectus Top 101 Top Prospects, Velasquez is 75th-overall while Alfaro is 31st-overall.

While I think that Velasquez will be a top pitcher for the Astros, I like what Alfaro can offer as a catcher. He has a plus arm and can hit the long-ball.

Advantage Rangers.

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