I just took over this team, and would like some imput on two of my young starters-- Carlos Bennett and Cory Ellenwood.

ah how do I link them?

well my question is.. are they too young to be ML ready?

The last manager of this team has used both guys at the ML level last season, but I don't think they are ready (Ellingwood is 21yo, 72ovr proj to be an 84) and Bennett is 22yo(73ovr proj to be 82)

Does it hurt development for me to drop them to AAA or even AA so they can progress?

If you demote them after ST starts, you make take a demotion hit.

If you leave them in the bigs and play them, they'll develop just fine. However, you will be moving them closer to arb and FA.

Age isn't important(to me). If they aren't 3-4 year pros, they could probably stand some more time in the minors. If they have 3 pro years, they wouldn't have to be on the 40 but they could still be ML-ready.

This is my first year and obv. a rebuilding season if you look at my team, so I have no rush to throw these guys into the ML level if I don't have to.

Does it hurt development to drop them down to AAA or AA from being on the ML roster, then eventually bringing them back up?

so do you think I should demote them before ST starts? I don't want them at the ML level as I feel neither are ready, would rather see them in AAA for a season or two.

Both guys are entering their 4th seasons

I wouldn't go to AA. But, as I said, if ST has started, they might take a demotion hit. If it hasn't, go ahead and send them to AAA.

To answer your 2:04 question, yes, demote them now but keep them on your 40. They will be R5 eligible if you remove them from the 40. However, I wouldn't expect a lot of development from 4 year pros. Maybe a point here or there.

well they aren't 4 year pros, they've each only spent 1 season at the ML level.

Actually, Bennett only made 4 apperances at the ML level last season

Pro includes minor leagues. Look at their player cards to be sure.

oh, okay. They both have 3 Pro Years.

I dropped them down to AAA for this season, hopefully they go up a few points and then I'll bring them to the ML next year.

thanks for the help

If they only have 3 pro seasons, they don't have to be on your 40 man. You can take them off and protect other players from the R5.

cool, thanks. Is it wise to put these guys on my ST roster?

Put any legit prospect on your ST roster.