- Carlos Triunfel, once thought to be a lock to move away from shortstop, will be starting there for the Triple-A Tacoma Rainers, and despite the luster having worn off of his prospect star over the years, it's important to remember that the Mariners youngster is still just 22 years old, says Larry Larue of The [Tacoma] News Tribune. Triunfel may no longer be the team's shortstop of the future, but if he regains his promise at the plate, he could profile as a solid utility player in the majors.
- The Orioles plan to keep their top two position prospects, Manny Machado and Jonathan Schoop, together for another year, despite the fact that both are natural shortstops, reports Dan Connolly of The Baltimore Sun. Both will begin the year at Double-A, and Schoop will play primarily second base in difference to Machado. Last season, Schoop saw time at third base as well as second when he was along side Machado, and filled in nicely at short when Machado missed time with an injury. Connolly also notes that top pitching prospect Dylan Bundy will start his professional career in full-season ball, debuting at Low-A Delmarva.
- Despite being told that he had already made the team, the Reds optioned prospect Todd Frazier to the minors on Wednesday to create roster space for Alfredo Simon, says John Fay of The Cincinnati Enquirer. Despite the disappointment for Frazier, the move was made based on who had minor league options left, which Frazier did. He will play primarily third base in Triple-A, while also seeing some time in the corner outfield spots, and will almost certainly be back in the majors as soon as Scott Rolen needs to miss some time.
