Rockies' David Dahl named top prospect in Pioneer League

Colorado Rockies minor league outfielder David Dahl was named the top prospect in the Rookie-level Pioneer League on Thursday, according to Baseball America.

The 18-year-old Dahl was the 10th overall pick in the 2012 First-Year Player Draft out of Oak Mountain HS in Birmingham, Ala. He tore through the Pioneer League, hitting .379 with nine home runs and 57 RBIs, as well as swiping 12 bases. He posted a .423 on-base percentage and an impressive 1.048 OPS in just 67 games. Dahl was referred to by Baseball America as "one of the most impressive high school draftees ever to come through the league".

Dahl, who has plus speed and a plus arm, projects as a center fielder. Scouting reports note that his most impressive quality may be his plate discipline, which is advanced for his age. He's also shown the ability to be selective at the plate, and has shown power to all fields. If there's a single concern about the young outfielder, it's with regards to his jumps and reads in the outfield and his jumps on the bases. Both are coachable shortcomings, and with a little work on his jumps on the bases, he could be a legitimate threat to steal 30 bases per season as he ascends the Rockies' minor league ranks. He's a complete package and a good reason for Rockies fans to be excited.

Dahl was joined on Baseball America's Top 20 Pioneer League prospects list by right-handed pitcher Eddie Butler (No. 6), catcher Wilfredo Rodriguez (No.13), outfielder Julian Yan (No. 14) and left-handed pitcher Jason Aquino (No. 17).