Cleveland Indians 2016 Top 30 Prospects Review – No. 24 to 19

#22 Yu-Cheng Chang, SS

Coming in at number 22, Chang was another player that nearly got dealt this year as part of the Lucroy deal. He spent all of 2016 with the Advanced-A Lynchburg Hillcats where he hit .259/.332/.463 in 109 games. He added 13 home runs, 30 doubles, and eight triples for an impressive 51 extra base hits (he had just 108 total hits on the year). The right-handed hitter spent all of 2016 at shortstop, just as he did in 2015.

Future Outlook: Chang impressed many in 2016 with his play, including many outside the Indians. In addition to almost being dealt to Milwaukee, there were reports the New York Yankees were interested in him in potential deals as well this summer. He turned 21 just over a month ago and could open 2017 in Double-A. While not a bad shortstop by any means, he could eventually move to third base where he spent some time in 2014. The power is certainly proving to be good enough to handle the hot corner and with shortstop being arguably the deepest position in the system, he may move there simply to keep getting more playing time as he climbs the ladder. He’s a guy that could be in the mix for a top 10 spot heading into 2017 with how well he played.

#21 James Ramsey, OF

Ramsey came in at number 21 on our preseason list; however, like Giovanni Soto never played for the Indians organization in 2016. He too was designated for assignment before the season began and the Los Angeles Dodgers picked him up. He spent all of 2016 in Triple-A, hitting a respectable .264/.339/.433 with the Dodgers Triple-A club before ending up with the Mariners.

Future Outlook: Ramsey will be 27 heading into the 2017 season and while once considered a rising prospect, may have run out of time. The former 1^st round pick by the St. Louis Cardinals can play all three outfield spots so maybe he breaks in as a backup but won’t crack any top prospect lists next year.