8. Ryan Vilade (418 points, 20 ballots)
Ryan Vilade is a potential strong MLB offensive player (he was named the top offensive player at the alternate site in 2020), though his defensive utility increasingly appears to be limited. The 23-year-old righty, who was Colorado’s first pick in the 2017 draft as a second rounder (signing for a $1.425M bonus), was listed a shortstop when he was drafted but was always pegged as a player likely to slide down the defensive spectrum.
Mid-season 2021 Rank: 10
High Ballot: 4
Mode Ballot: 8, 11
Contract Status: 2017 2nd Round, 40 Man Roster, three options remaining
In 2021, that finally became the case as the Rockies moved Vilade to full-time outfield duty — he spent time at all three OF positions (and a little 1B) last season, but the plurality of his action came in left field and none has come at SS or 3B.