Notes about players from the Chronicle's chat with Bobby Heck:
Brian Bogusevic: "Has a chance to help sooner than later."
Jason Castro: "Far-reaching" to say he could be behind the plate in Houston in 2009. Will start 2009 at Class A - Lancaster in the California League.
Sam Gervacio: Potential set-up man.
Chris Johnson: Not on the caliber of Wright or Rolen, but could be a productive, everyday third baseman.
Chia-Jen Lo: Progress depends on his adjustment to the United States.
Bud Norris: Now has "major-league weapons," "a 'plus' to 'double-plus' fastball and slider." "Appears to be the closest" to Major-League level.
Polin Trinidad: Back of the rotation starter, with potential for mobility.
Quote of the transcript: "Our system is not at a point where we should be drafting for need. Our mindset will continue to be add a depth of quality until we have a legitimate depth of quality in our system."
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
