Clint Everts

Everts missed all of 2005 after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Assuming he suffers no setbacks in his recovery, he'll come back as a 21-year-old who's struck out better than a batter an inning so far in his pro career -- don't forget about him when it comes time to restock your minor league roster.

Everts' promising career hit a pothole, as Tommy John surgery will have him missing all of 2005. He's still very young and very talented, so assuming all went well with the surgery he could be in the Nats major league plans as soon as 2007.

By default, Everts is the Expos' top prospect. He struggled a bit in his first pro season, but he'll open 2004 still a teenager -- give him time.

Everts was the Expos 5th overall pick in 2002 entry draft, and a high school teammate of Mets # 1 pick Scott Kazmir. The MLB owned team did not opt for a budget pick in 2003, and Everts signed for $2.5 million in August. High school pitchers as 1st rounders are always a risk, but Everts is an exceptional athlete who could actually be developed as a middle-infielder. He currently possesses three plus-pitches. Scouts rated his curveball the best in the very deep 2002 draft. It’s a deep biting, power curve that comes in between 78-84 mph. It’s a great compliment to his mid-nineties fastball, but he also has an excellent circle change that some feel is actually better than the power curve. 2003 will be his first year of pro-ball. He’s expected to begin the season in Rookie Ball but could make his way to Low-A Savannah, as many expect him to move through the somewhat barren system quickly.