Time to take a look at the top performers in the Blue Jays system over the past 30 days…..
1. Joey Murray RHP Dunedin
Why he’s here: 1.64 ERA, 30K/4 BB, .190 OppBA in 22 IP
Murray has taken the biggest leap forward of any Blue Jays SP prospect this year, and his June was just another rung up the prospect ladder.
The spin rate/arm angle poster child, Murray’s invisiball is very difficult to square up, and after starting the year at Lansing, he hasn’t missed a beat since being promoted to Dunedin. Florida State League hitters have managed only a .182 average against Murray.
2. Demi Orimoloye, OF Dunedin
Why he’s here: 1.051 OPS, 5HR, 6-7 SB
The Ottawa product, who came to the organization from the Brewers in the Curtis Granderson last year, was hitting .187 heading into June after a cold April, and a dreadful June.
Orimiloye was on fire this past month, slashing .342/.407/.644 and hitting 5 round trippers during one of the hardest months to knock one out in rainy, humid Florida.
3. Hagen Danner C/DH Lansing
Why he’s here: 1.050 OPS, 7 HR
One of the best kept secrets in the system was the last 30 days for the 2017 2nd rounder.
After posting a paltry .244 OPS for May, Danner showed vastly improved pitch recognition this past month, consistently working the count and drawing a dozen walks after accumulating only 5 for the first two months combined.
4. Yennsy Diaz, RHP New Hampshire
Why he’s here: 2.53 ERA, 1.09 WHIP
Other Starters have had more acclaim, but Diaz has been among the most consistent in the system since Opening Day.
Diaz is not missing as many bats this year as he has in the past with his 96-97 heat, but he’s beginning to show more feel for his secondaries, as well as improved fastball command. Diaz walked only 8 batters in 5 starts totalling 32 innings.
5. Zach Jackson, RHP Buffalo
Why he’s here: 0.48 ERA, 19K/18 IP
Once thought to be on the fast track to the majors, the Jackson and his funky delivery have had issues with ball four throughout his minor league career.
Jackson held International League hitters to a .133 average through 11 outings in June, and was dominant in relief for Buffalo. More importantly, he walked only 4.
