Samir Duenez

There is an adage about first base prospects that states a player has to hit a ton at every level to realistically project as an everyday first baseman in the big leagues. Well, Duenez posted a wRC+ below 105 at every stop prior to 2016, so he does not hold up to that standard. It is also widely accepted that when a player submits an above-average offensive season while being extremely young for a level, that is the mark of a legitimate prospect. Duenez certainly fits the bill here, as he notched a 132 wRC+ in the harsh hitting conditions of Wilmington and the Carolina League despite being 2.5 years younger than league average. What matters more, Duenez's impressive 2016 numbers or his lack of production in his first three professional seasons? As a hit over power first baseman, he is unlikely to really burn those who overlook him, but there are enough positive indicators to make him a legitimate breakout candidate in 2017.