Blake Wood had a terrific winter in Hawaii and gained some attention as a prospect. He was ranked 7th ranked prospect in BP and 11th by BA. He finished 2nd in league in Ks.
Here is a quote that caught my attention in BP:
"He absolutely overpowered people, running the ball up to 95 mph" manager Jim Gabella said, "and he really developed a nice changeup here." Now armed with three good pitches and a healthy back, expect Wood to move up the ladder quickly in 2008.
It looks as though Wood will start out in AA as part of a really good looking rotation for the NW Arkansas team. Cortes, Pimental, B. Johnson, and Wood are top 15 prospects in Royals system. Rowdy Hardy is the sleeper in the rotation. Wood also has the plus pitches to be a closer or bullpen guy if the third pitch does develop.
Many fans overlook the minor leagues but by the end of 2008, one (or hopefully more) of the guys listed above will be pitching in KC or knocking on the door.