FAB50 2002 Baseball - Top Fifty Players - The Best of the Best in Minor League and Independent Baseball - MLN Sports Zone

Our Best Guess: Major Leaguer/AAA

3. Josh Beckett
RHP, 21-years old
Organization: Florida Marlins

Josh Beckett from the Portland Seadogs is the player to watch this season.

Beckett will be in the five-man rotation for the Florida Marlins this year.

This all-around athlete played thirteen games for the Seadogs and had an awesome 1.82 earned run average in 74.1 innings pitched.

Only 21, Beckett made his major league debut with the Marlins last September. He started the game, pitched six shutout innings giving up one hit, leading to the Cubs defeat.

“Born in Spring, TX., this right handed pitcher has an amazing 96-97 mph fastball, great change up and total control. He’s overpowering on the field,” said Director of Public Relations for the Portland Seadogs, Chris Carson.

Beckett made his pro debut for Class A Kane County April 6, 2001, then moved up to Brevard County and there pitched in all 13 games and had a 1.23 ERA.

Josh was named top prospect by league managers in the Midwest League in 2000. He was awarded the Topps/Minor League Player of the Year for 2001.

Beginning the 2001 season, Beckett had 35 innings without an earned run. He also limited Florida State League hitters to a .145 average last season.

Becoming the highest-drafted high school right handed pitcher since Bill Gullickson in 1977, when the Florida Marlins chose him with the second overall pick, Josh Beckett is definitely one player to keepyour eye on.

(K.J.)