While watching the AA West Tenn D-Jaxx, AAA Memphis Redbirds, and AAA
Nashville Sounds this year, I have noticed a change in
the way many teams use the AA level farm team. The old tried and true
spend a year or two in each level and move up to the next level seems to
be changed.

The cubs promoted many West Tenn players either with a brief stop at AAA
or without a stop at AAA.

It appears that AA level develops young players, while the AAA Is used
for veteran and free agents players with some major league experience.

The other thing I have noticed is that many college players start in An
advanced A or AA -rather than a short A or rookie league team. It
seems that the improved quality of college baseball has subbed for a
rung or two of the minor system.

My question is, are we rushing players??? Are teams holding on to
specific role players in AAA too long. SHould we look at tw or three
paths for players: one for vets, one for college players, and one for
rookies???


Fred Deaton
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