Baseball in Fort Wayne

Jarrod Parker has been named the top prospect in the Arizona Diamondback’s organization by Baseball America. It’s hardly a surprise. He’s been highly touted since being selected number nine overall in the 2007 Amateur Draft. During his first professional season last year, he faired very well in the Midwest League, including dominating his hometown Fort Wayne Wizards for several shutout innings in the last game in Memorial Stadium history.

BA also selected Parker for the “Best Fastball” and “Best Slider” categories as well as slotting as the number two starter in the projected 2012 rotation behind current ace, Brandon Webb.

While many predict he’s at least another year away from arriving in the Majors, BA speculates that might be a bit pessimistic:

It wouldn’t be shocking to see 2007 first-rounder Jarrod Parker . . . in the big leagues at some point this year.

And while we are on the topic of Baseball America prospect rankings, a couple former Wizards have shown up in with their current organizations:

• Luis Cruz (Pirates) – Best Defensive Infielder
• Jon Link (White Sox) – Best Slider
• Yordany Ramirez (Astros) – Best Outfield Arm
• David Freese (Cardinals) – 9th Overall Top Prospect
• Kyler Burke (Cubs) – Best Outfield Arm

In case you are wondering Baseball America will unveil their ratings for the Padres organization on February 2nd.