Michael Rogers

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Minnesota Twins #27 prospect in 2004
  Rogers had borderline first-round talent but fell to the 16th round in June because he stands 5-foot-10 and was strongly committed to the University of Texas, where he would have pitched and played the outfield. After failing to sign fifth-rounder Brandon McArthur, the Twins had extra money in their draft budget and lured Rogers with a $300,000 bonus. He was a surprise coup for an organization notorious for leaving premium talent unsigned. His stature and full-effort delivery scared off some teams, but he's athletic and throws his fastball at 88-92 mph with a quick arm. His tight curveball is an equalizer with the potential to be the best in the system. Rogers often relies too much on his breaking ball, and the Twins want him to establish his fastball more. He needs to become more consistent with his arm speed on his changeup so he won't tip hitters off. Rogers overthrows at times, affecting his command. He wasn't in great shape during instructional league, but topped out at 90 mph and impressed scouts with his plus curve. He signed a 2004 contract and probably will make his pro debut in Elizabethton.