This week on ESPN.com, writers and editors will be looking back at the past decade in baseball -- and looking ahead to the future. Today, to begin the conversation, Kevin Goldstein of Baseball Prospectus -- a man well versed in prospects and MLB futures -- looks at the 20 players who will shine the brightest from 2010 through 2019.
Selections were based on Baseball Prospectus statistical projections such as WARP (wins above replacement player), along with more subjective observations such as scouting reports and general sense of upside. Our focus here is ultimately on decade-long value to a team.
1. Hanley Ramirez, SS, Florida Marlins
2010 Birthday: 27 on Dec. 23
In the past three seasons, Ramirez has been worth just less than 25 wins, and he hasn't even entered his prime yet. Sure, he's not a very good shortstop in the field, but when you are talking about a .925-.950 OPS every season, who cares?