Maybe our expectations are too high?
Nola is a good example, they had him rework his motion to use his legs more, he struggled with his command for a few months, but now throws 92-93, t95. He's also improved his changeup and has learned to take something off his FB at times - and he's been almost unhittable for his last 6 starts or so.
Players take time to develop, they make changes and adjustments, the process is painful, but when it takes hold, watch out.
I been saying Alfaro and Crawford are grossly overrated for two years - Alfaro b/c he lacks plate discipline and lacks polish defensively, Crawford for his lack of power.
Doesn't mean they weren't good prospects, but didn't belong in anyone's top 50 - too many questions.
Alfaro is trying to finally make some adjustments, but it may be too late.
Crawford has made adjustments to generate more power, now he need to combine that with his plate discipline and make more contact.
They could stll blossom, but the odds of being the players implied by being a top prospect are well below 100%.
Thompson, wait and see. Could be just a funk that he'll work out of.
Appel, he's the same guy he was in Houston, stick a fork in him, he's not even suited to the bullpen with his delivery.
Pullin, give him time to show he's a fraud or just struggling with the promotion
Quinn, fluke injury, but too many injuries, but the talent is there.
Valentin, injuries happen, he was projected as a utility IF and nothing has really changed.
Morgan, actually showing signs of becoming an effective LHP, he is learning that just because his FB jumped to 95 MPH, it's still not an out pitch and to use his slider.
Eshelman, can he compensate for subpar velocity with great command?
Pivetta, can he develop secondary pitches?
Lively, can he take it up a notch with all his pitches?
The thing is, guys make adjustments, and go from marginal to starter (see Altherr), guys don't and become trivia questions.
If Klentak knew WHO was going to make the adjustments, his life would be a lot easier. He can improve the odds by obtaining players with baseball IQ, work ethic and baseball fundamentals.
But it's still a guessing game.