Chart: The scouting and development model (and AL Central rankings)

SCOUTING AND DEVELOPMENT

The model: Cardinals

When it comes to drafting players, getting them to the majors and watching them become winners, St. Louis has no peer. Matt Carpenter, Jon Jay, Yadier Molina, near right, Kolten Wong, Lance Lynn, Michael Wacha, Trevor Rosenthal and others are all homegrown and play key roles. "The Cardinals have done a heck of a job, especially with pitching," Twins GM Terry Ryan said. "Everybody would tell you, man, those guys get pitching. How do they do it, how do they develop it, and what's their secret? That's what all of us ask." They also know how to make trades, picking up players such as Adam Wainwright, far right, and Matt Holliday. Their system has taken a hit with the tragic offseason death of outfield prospect Oscar Tavares, but there are still quality players in the pipeline.

AL Central rankings

1. Twins: Just be a little more patient, Twins fans. That wave of prospects is going to hit at any moment.

2. Royals: Mostly homegrown team is fresh off a World Series appearance — with more prospects on the way.

3. Indians: Shortstop Francisco Lindor is just about ready to join Jason Kipnis, Lonnie Chisenhall and others.

4. White Sox: Chicago is starting to rebuild its farm system behind second baseman Micah Johnson and others.

5. Tigers: Derek Hill is years away. Any decent prospects they have seem to get traded, leaving their farm system nearly barren.