For an organization that has seen a lot of prospects leave over the past year, the Phillies still have as many players of note in their system as most organizations in baseball.
Making a name for himself in a big way is Jonathan Singleton, an 18-year-old 1B currently playing for the Phillies' South Atlantic League affiliate the Lakewood Blue Claws. Singleton has brought back memories of a young Ryan Howard, says Bob Brookover of the Philadelphia Daily News, who also provides updates on fellow Phightins' prospects Juan Ramirez, Phillippe Aumont, Domonic Brown, B.J. Rosenberg, Trevor May, Anthony Gose, Cody Overbeck, Nick Hernandez, and Domingo Santana.
Santana is one of the Phillies most intriguing prospects, with tremendous talent but extremely raw abilities. The organization pushed the 17-year-old Dominican native with an aggressive assignment in Lakewood to start the season, but Brookover reports that Santana could be sent to short-season ball once play begins next month. Santana has struggled with a .194 batting average and 64 strike outs, but Phillies personnel say they are happy with the progression he has made.
Another interesting arm in Lakewood is Jarred Cosart, a 38th round pick in 2008 who is showing off a power arm and an advanced feel for pitching, according to Lakewood manager Mark Parent (via Brookover). The Phillies will likely take their time with Cosart, allowing the 19-year-old to progress through the minors with a full year at each level, at least in the low minors.
Also of note, Tyson Gillies, acquired in the off-season in the Cliff Lee deal, has had a setback during his recovery from rehabbing his hamstring, reports Mike Drago of the Reading Eagle.
