Milwaukee Brewers: Ranking the top 20 prospects, Part II

8- Isan Diaz SS (6)

When the Milwaukee Brewers traded Jean Segura to the Arizona Diamondbacks, Diaz was the prize of the deal. Remember, that trade also featured the Brewers acquiring Chase Anderson. That’s how high the ceiling is for Diaz.

He did not disappoint in 2016. In 135 games for the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, Diaz hit 20 home runs with 75 runs batted in. He slashed .264/.358/.469 with an OPS of .827. Those are great numbers from a middle infielder.

However, after advancing to High-A Carolina this season, he has struggled. Hitting only .225, he does have 12 home runs with 52 runs batted in. His .339 on base percentage shows he takes walks. With nine stolen bases, he is not a threat on the base paths.

He has played a lot of shortstop, but he projects better at second base. He receives average grades for his fielding, hitting ability, and arm. He’s graded as above average for his power as well as his overall grade. He could be the mainstay at the cornerstone within a year or two. Unfortunately, he’s still blocked at that position for the near future.

7- Corey Ray OF (2)

The Milwaukee Brewers used the fifth pick of the 2016 draft on Louisville outfielder Corey Ray. A toolsy player with plus speed, Ray was supposed to shine in pro ball. Unfortunately, injuries have hampered him early in the 2017 season.

Ray has the potential to be a superstar at the Major League level. His speed, combined with his raw power, are tantalizing to any organization. However, he has yet to show the same offensive prowess in the Minors that he showed in college.

In 149 games in the Minor Leagues, Ray has hit only .242, with 11 home runs and 57 runs batted in. When he gets on base is when he can make an impact. He has 30 stolen bases in 42 attempts. He strikes out too much, which seems to be a common theme in baseball presently, but he has shown an ability to take walks.

With his speed, Ray will only help the Brewers defensively. He has to show he can get on base before that happens. Keon Broxton is as much fun to watch, as he is frustrating. If Ray wants to make it to the Majors, he has to show some consistency with the bat.

His ceiling is definitely higher than this ranking. However, number seven is where he belongs, for now. He is not in a position to help this team right now or next season. A potentially special player down the line. Without question, Ray will make a difference. It just won’t be until late 2018 at best.