Drew Naylor

Naylor failed to take a step forward last season after his solid showing between Low- and High-A in 2008. He posted a very good 3.11 K/BB ratio but his 6.55 K/9IP illustrates his lack of overpowering stuff. Naylor generally sits in the high-80s with his fastball and has an average curveball. The Phillies will likely move him to the bullpen at some point to see if he can add a bit more to his fastball with shorter outings. If so, he could have a chance to make it as a reliever in the majors down the road.

Naylor had a great 2008 showing with Low-A Lakewood, going 5-3 with a 2.99 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 97 strikeouts in 87.1 innings and remained effective upon being promoted to High-A Clearwater. The Phillies thought enough of him to purchase his contract in the offseason, protecting him from the Rule 5 draft and at 22 years of age, he has a bright future with the organization, though he’s still at least a year away -- and probably two or three -- from making the big leagues.