Moderator: Mike Berardino will begin taking your Marlins questions at 1 p.m. ET

 

Moderator: Mike had some unexpected delays but should be joining us around 1:30 p.m. ET

 

Q: Jason from Castro Valley, CA asks:

What are the Marlins plans with 1B Jason Stokes? He has Carlos Delgado and Jeff Conine blocking his path. Is this off-season fish or cut bait with him? Do you see a trade of Stokes for a starting pitcher somewhere?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Sorry I'm late, everybody. Had to meet with a stump grinder for me hurricane-wrecked yard. On with the show. ... Stokes had a lost year at Albuquerque dealing with this weird hypermobile thumb of his. Delgado could be traded soon, but Conine almost certainly comes back and Stokes has to prove he can stay healthy for at least half a season before he has much trade value or big-league opportunity. It's a shame because his power is huge when healthy.

 

Q: Trent Swift from West Palm Beach asks:

After such a down year, why is Tankersly still on the top-10 list while Sean West is left off?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Tankersley did have a disappointing year but he had a good excuse: shoulder tendinitis that cost him the first two months. He has moved to the 'pen for the Arizona Fall league and could make it to the majors fairly soon with his college background. West is interesting but still a little too raw to make the top 10.

 

Q: Matt from Bloomington asks:

Whats the eta on Brad McCann? He had a very good year at Low-A Greensboro. Completely tore the cover off the ball.

 

A: Mike Berardino: You're right. McCann definitely opened some eyes this year. He'll go to Jupiter to start 2006 and I could see him pushing for a September callup by 2007. He'll have to keep working on his defense at first, but he's definitely a legitimate prospect because of that bat.

 

Q: Bill Dictus from Madison, WI asks:

Who would be the best MLB comparison to Chris Volstad?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Steve Trachsel is the name I hear, but with a little better fastball. Volstad is pretty polished. the only question with him is how much more upside is in there? He's very advanced for his age.

 

Q: Joaquin from Houston asks:

How does Lincoln Holdzkom factor into the Florida Marlins plans? How did he look post Tommy John?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Lincoln made some strides after returning from TJ surgery in July. He could make the back end of the Marlins' top 30, but with another full year of health could be much higher on the list. Holdzkom pitched at 90-92 mph and topped out at 94 mph at Class A Jupiter. This was a couple ticks below the 97 mph he reached pre-surgery, but he showed plenty of signs of a successful recovery. Pencil him into the Marlins' bullpen mix by mid-year 2007 at the earliest.

 

Q: Jon from Naples, FL asks:

Hi Mike. I noticed that RHP Rick Vanden Hurk, the Marlins' young Dutch prospect, was limited to only 6 starts last season in A ball. Were there some sort of injury problems for him? Also, how do you think he projects in the future and where might he be in the Marlins top 30 prospects? Thanks.

 

A: Mike Berardino: Vanden Hurk has been troubled by injury problems the last couple of years and had Tommy John surgery at the end of this season. He'll make the Top 30 somewhere around No. 22 or so, but he probably won't pitch again until 2007.

 

Moderator: Sorry. Had to deal with the screen repair man. Back now

 

Q: Thom from Ann Arbor, MI asks:

Robert andino has been overmatched at the plate, but has been moved agressively. What is his offensive ceiling?

 

A: Mike Berardino: I don't agree that he was overmatched at Double-A this year, but he definitely struggled in his September callup. The Marlins like his bat speed and believe he will continue to improve as he gains experience and gets more comfortable reading pitches. I'd say in time he could give you a shade below the typical Alex Gonzalez year, minus the 23-homer aberration.

 

Q: TOM from FT MYERS FLORIDA asks:

Mike: Where do Vargas, Resop and Messenger fall in the line of prospects for the Marlins. I would have thought that Vargas and Resop would have been in the top 10 considering they were in AA last year and got the call to the parent club.

 

A: Mike Berardino: Vargas isn't rookie eligible because he pitched too many innings. Resop will be in the mid teens and Messenger somewhere in the low 20s after getting their feet wet in the big leagues this year. Resop struggled more than I would have thought in the majors, but his upside remains intriguing.

 

Q: Chad from Miami asks:

Has the organization given up on Jose Campusano, or is there still hope for him?

 

A: Mike Berardino: No one has given up on Campusano. He'll make the Top 30 in the late teens, I believe. Tim Cossins, his manager at Jupiter, was very pleased with his progress. Remember, Campusano skipped Jamestown and Greensboro altogether and played in the FSL at age 21. He's a slick shortstop with speed, but not sure how much juice he'll have in his bat.

 

Q: Elmer Zachar from Lost in the fog at Ewing Field asks:

Not a peep from the Marlins about Allison until it was announced he was going to extended spring training. John Manuel reported "it was weird" people were kind of mum about him before the SAL Top 20. Are the Marlins opening up any in their assessments of Allison? Any idea whether Kevin Baxter was relating a Marlin organizational opinion when he listed Olsen, Allison, Tankersley and Volstad as the good arms making Bazardo expendable? See "Your pitch," Miami Herald, Sept. 20, 2005.

 

A: Mike Berardino: The Marlins are understandably proceeding with all due caution when it comes to Allison. They were pleased with his showing this year at Greensboro, and he'll move up to about no. 20 on this year's top 30. He figures to open next year at Jupiter, where they can keep an even closer eye on him (in theory). As for my friend Mr. Baxter, what are you doing wasting your time with the Herald? If it's not in the Sun-Sentinel, it didn't happen. Everybody knows that. LOL.

 

Q: Bill Dictus from Madison, WI asks:

4 years from now what do you see the Marlins pitching staff looking like if nobody changes organizations?

 

A: Mike Berardino: That's a big if considering how much finances shape this roster. But I'd guess the 2009 rotation would be Beckett, Willis, Olsen, Johnson and Volstad with Vargas looming in the wings. My best guess on closer would be Ryan Tucker, who has a big arm and could move fast.

 

 

Q: Jody Moulton from Chicago, IL asks:

Thanks for taking questions today Mike. Which pitchers in the Marlin's system have the ceiling of a #1 starter? If none, any #2's?

 

A: Mike Berardino: No problem, Jody. Potential No. 1's: Olsen, Johnson, West, Allison. Potential 2-3's: Volstad, Thompson, Marceaux, Baxter, Tucker Potential 3-4's: Vanden Hurk, Bostick.

 

Q: Jim from Coral Gables asks:

What are the Marlins plans for Jacob Marceaux? He was the only one the 5 pitchers the Marlins drafted before the second round that was a college pitcher, yet he seemed to struggle the most in his debut. With the depth in the system you do think he will be kept as a starter or be moved to the pen to allow him to develop and help at the major league level quicker?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Marceaux was a disappointment. Despite his college background, he struggled and mechanical issues were part of the reason. I think he'll get another year or two to sort things out as a starter. After that, I could definitely see him going to the pen. Mike Henneman, the old Tigers closer, was a summer league coach and a big influence on him during his college years. I think Marceaux could have the mindset to close.

 

Q: Joshua Kusnick from Tallahassee Floirda asks:

Tell me something good about Jose Campusano and Carlos Martinez. How do you project them long term and where will they be in the top 30? Thanks Joshua

 

A: Mike Berardino: This will be the one and only question I'll take from an agent. Campusano will be in the 25 range. Martinez could make it at No. 30 or just miss. I like them both, though. How's that, Josh?

 

Q: Admin Beinfest from Miami asks:

What should I do with Josh Willingham? He seems to be more than ready to contribute but I'm just not sure what I have.

 

A: Mike Berardino: Thanks for reaching out, Admin. I thought you'd never ask. Trade him to the A's for Juan Cruz. Willingham is an AL player who probably should get half his at-bats as a DH.

 

Q: Bill Dictus from Madison, WI asks:

Who is more advanced out of the 2005 Draft crop; Aaron Thompson, Ryan Tucker, Chris Volstad, or Sean West?

 

A: Mike Berardino: For Top 30 purposes, I went Volstad, Thompson, Tucker and West. But the biggest upside might belong to West. It just might take him the longest to catch up with that huge frame and his general lefthandedness.

 

Q: Steve H from Las Vegas asks:

How High is Hermida's Ceiling? Somewhere in the Pre-Injury Magglio Ordonez range?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Very high. Perennial All-Star high. I still can't believe the Marlins didn't bring him up at midseason. He could have energized their lineup and done for them what Francoeur did for the Braves. Oh, well.

 

Q: Brian St.Hilaire from Plattsburgh, NY asks:

With Hermida set to start the season as an everyday player, what numbers would you see him putting up with 500 at-bats next season. Also, with Joe Giradi as manager how do you see that affecting his SB attempts and position in the Marlins bating order.

 

A: Mike Berardino: Unless he has a horrible spring, Hermida should be the opening day RF. Conservatively, I'd put him down for 20 homers, 80 RBI and a .360 OBP. Of course, a lot of it depends on where he hits in the order. I'd guess he'll start out somewhere around sixth or seventh and work his way up from there. By his second year, he should be hitting third with Cabrera fourth. That's assuming Delgado is elsewhere. As for SBs, Girardi likes the running game. I could see Hermida stealing 15-20 bases next year. Again, depending on where he hits in the order.

 

Q: Jason from Buffalo, NY asks:

Any of the Marlins later draft picks or older players perform especially well this past summer?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Keep an eye on fifth-rounder Kyle Winters, a polished HS RHP from Colorado and 13th-rounder Jeff Van Houten, an undersized hit machine from U. Arizona. Rafael Galbizo, a Cuban righty taken in the 20th round, touched 93 and showed good presence.

 

Q: Jim from Coral Gables asks:

The Marlins seem to have a lot of pitching depth in the minors. They have a lot of players in the high minors who are ready to contribute (Olsen, Johnson, Vargas) and then the big 5 they drafted this year. Jupiter had some interesting pitchers this year in Bostick, Vander Hurk, Baxter, and Galbido at the end of the year. Who are some of your sleepers in the system?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Sleepers? How about low-A RHP Jose Garcia and Class A RHP Carlos Martinez. Both can run it up there in the low to mid 90s and project as top setup men.

 

Q: John from Greensboro asks:

Why no JT Restko on the list? I saw him play several times this season and came away very impressed. He was one of only two players in the Sally league age 20 or under with a better than 900 OPS and he has a frame that could easily handle another 20 lbs. Comparing him to Harvey, both have defensive questions, yet Restko had better numbers across the board and played at a higher level at a younger age. What gives?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Restko made the list in the mid teens. While there are definite defensive questions about Restko, Harvey could handle RF with no problem and showed good early signs at 3B. Also, this was the first year there was any support for Restko on the list, and some of that could have been related to the new park in Greensboro.

 

Q: Steve H from Las Vegas asks:

What has happened to Trevor Hutchinson? I know he had surgery, but is he due back anytime soon? I saw him pitch in college...several scouts said to me that he was legit...Can he make it back?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Hutch should be back by early next year, if all goes well. I hope it does because he's a good guy who does the best T-Rex imitation I've ever seen. OK, the only T-Rex imitation I've ever seen. When he's on, his sinker is quite a weapon.

 

Q: Chip from Georgetown asks:

What can you tell me about Craig Molldrem and Ecequier Pie? Are either of these guys legitimate major league prospects?

 

A: Mike Berardino: There was no support for either guy on this list. Maybe in another organization they would have gotten some love, but not from the deeper-than-you-think Marlins.

 

Q: John D from Wilmington, NC asks:

Do you see Reggie Abercrombie as a still legitimate prospect?If so, do you think he will make the bigs in the future? He has a high SO total but seems to have all the tools.

 

A: Mike Berardino: Those tools are attractive and he's having a solid fall league. But there are still too many holes in that swing to trust him fully.

 

Mike Berardino: Stepping away for a few. Tree guys are back.

 

Q: Chad from Miami asks:

Is Adam Bostick going to pitch in the major leagues? What is his upside potential? Also, what happened to Rhett James last year?

 

A: Mike Berardino: I wouldn't bet against him. He misses bats with his low 90s fastball and has some deception to him. His changeup continues to lag, however. Not sure about James, a former 20th rounder who remains below the radar.

 

Q: James from Birmingham, AL asks:

Jai Miller. Contender of pretender?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Still a contender for now. But you'd like to start seeing some results.

 

Q: Jon Lasken from JBL asks:

What are the projections for Josh Johnson? He didn't show up on the top 20 prospects for his AA league (which obviously had a lot of talent) but ranked ahead of players like Chris Volstad. Does he look like a potential front of the rotation starter, or more of an inning eater at the major league level?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Some with the Marlins like him better than even Olsen or Volstad. He's a horse who projects as a 200 IP guy once he settles in. Probably a solid No. 3 with the potential for more.

 

Q: James from Fort Lauderdale asks:

Just reviewing Tucker it seems like he is a 1 pitch guy. He didn't seem to have much trouble getting hit. Will he be able to develop a breaking ball or is he destined to move to the bullpen?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Your read is correct. He's going to need a second pitch to survive in the pen and a third to remain a starter. The Marlins took his curveball away temporarily and asked him to concentrate on the slider with mixed results.

 

Q: from asks:

Is Brett Hayes considered the catcher of the future for the Marlins? (I noticed he was selected as the Best Defensive Catcher under "Best Tools"). If so, was he close to breaking the top ten prospects list, or was it do to injuries and lack of at bats during his firsr year of pro ball? Thanks a million - Steve

 

A: Mike Berardino: Hayes is an interesting guy. He's their highest-rated pure catcher (not counting Willingham), moving ahead of Brad Davis this year. Hayes will be around No. 28 when the book comes out. He had a broken left thumb that slowed him down but his future is bright.

 

Q: Chris from NH asks:

How does Alejandro De Aza compare tool-wise in the Marlins' system? Do you think his on-base ability and speed is good enough to carry him to the majors? Thanks

 

A: Mike Berardino: De Aza had some support for the Top 30 but not enough to make it. His speed is a weapon and he's a good defender. Keep an eye on him.

 

Q: Jimmy from Atlanta asks:

I was wondering about the swith when they put Brett Carroll in the outfield. I saw the arm from the outfield and its hard to believe anyone has a stronger arm in the minors let alone the same system. Also what about Allen Baxter, hes been there for years still throws 100 but never can get it right. Is he done?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Carroll does have a big, big arm. Not sure about the bat. Baxter is slowly working his way back. The velo is there but the results are lagging. He's about 27th on the Marlins' list.

 

 

 

Q: Blake Guyer from Madison, WI asks:

Why didn't the marlins draft any position players with any of their first round picks?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Simple. They wanted to load up on pitching, which will always be the most precious commodity.

 

Q: Billy the Marlin from Miami asks:

We need some bullpen help. Who are some of the prospects in 2A and 3A (other than Resop and Messenger)that may contribute in the next season?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Carlos Martinez and Taylor Tankersley both could make the majors by the end of next year.

 

Q: Lee Hansen from Naples, Florida asks:

Why was Chris Resop left off this list of prospects??????

 

A: Mike Berardino: Relax. He's in the mid teens and well-liked by the Marlins. He struggled more than expected in the majors, hence the downgrade.

 

Q: Paul M from VA asks:

I'm still confused; if Allison is #1 in terms of ceiling, why is he so low and not even top 15?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Because he's just lucky to be alive.

 

Q: Jose from Miami asks:

Francoeur OR Hermida, which one would you pick?

 

A: Mike Berardino: Hermida in a heartbeat

 

Q: Mark from Knoxville asks:

What is Eric Reed's future in the majors

 

A: Mike Berardino: Must stay healthy, but could be in center by midseason '06.

 

Q: Stephen Newsome from Emporia, VA asks:

What do the Marlins think of Jamar Walton? He started off pretty rough but seem to come on more towards the end of the season showing some pop in his bat.

 

A: Mike Berardino: He lost some steam this year and failed to make the Top 30. Must work to reestablish himself next year.

 

Moderator: That's all the time I've got for now. Got to get these stump grinders off my lawn. Thanks for the questions everybody. Enjoy the offseason.

Q: Matt from Bloomington asks:

Whats the eta on Brad McCann? He had a very good year at Low-A Greensboro. Completely tore the cover off the ball.

 

A: Mike Berardino: You're right. McCann definitely opened some eyes this year. He'll go to Jupiter to start 2006 and I could see him pushing for a September callup by 2007. He'll have to keep working on his defense at first, but he's definitely a legitimate prospect because of that bat.

 

Ramp sighting. :o

 

Thanks for posting this TSwift. Cool that you got your question in too. I try to ask questions all the time on those things and never get 'em answered. :confused

thanks for catching that FF....

thanks for catching that FF....

 

You've gotten a question answered for the last couple of these haven't you?

Dude can you ppost the scouting reports for the fish prospects

thanks for catching that FF....

 

You've gotten a question answered for the last couple of these haven't you?

yea, they enjoy my knowledge :mischief