Eliezer Alvarez

In 2016, Alvarez proved that his 2014 and 2015 seasons weren't just flashes in the pan. The 22-year-old second baseman posted a .323/.404/.476 slash line in 499 plate appearances spread across 116 games for Low-A Peoria. His .476 slugging percentage was good for third in the Midwest League. He achieved that feat primarily on the strength of gap power, smacking 36 two-baggers on the season, second-most in the league. He also showed off some speed on the bases, swiping 36 bases in 51 attempts. The Cardinals protected him from the Rule 5 draft by adding him to the 40-man roster in November. They are probably hoping he can crack the upper levels of the farm system before the end of 2017.