NewsCraig, Lynn claim Cards' prospect awards
Duo enjoyed tremendous success during '09 season
By Matthew Leach / MLB.com
11/02/09 5:39 PM EST
ST. LOUIS -- It may not have been the reward he was hoping for, but Allen Craig was recognized for his big season on Monday. Craig, who tore up the Pacific Coast League all season, was named the Cardinals' Minor League Player of the Year.Lance Lynn, a right-hander who split the season between three different levels, was named the organization's Pitcher of the Year.
Craig, 25, made a case for a September callup with his big season at Triple-A Memphis, but did not receive it. He batted .322 with a .374 on-base percentage and a .547 slugging percentage, 26 home runs and 83 RBIs.
Lynn, 22, enjoyed a big year in his first full professional season. A year after he was drafted out of the University of Mississippi, he went 11-4 with a 2.85 ERA, 124 strikeouts and 57 walks, with the bulk of his innings coming at Double-A Springfield.
"For a player to get drafted last year, and then in his first full year accomplish this, is remarkable," said Cardinals vice president of scouting and player development Jeff Luhnow. "Lance helped our Double-A team reach the playoffs and his future is very bright.
"Allen has been terrific every year since we drafted him and was a key part of the [Memphis] Redbirds' championship run this year. This recognition is overdue for him."
Craig will likely get a long look in Spring Training 2010, though it's unclear what kind of role may be available. He has played first base, third base and the outfield.
Lynn is most likely ticketed for Memphis next season.
Matthew Leach is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
