Much has been written about the Los Angeles Angels and it’s “lack” of talent down on the farm.

Because of free agency, finishing in the middle of the pack, lack of Latin America signings and simply trading away prospects like pitchers Patrick Corbin and Tyler Skaggs, who has since returned to the Halos and shortstop Jean Segura – the cupboards aren’t exactly over-flowing.

The Angels have not had a first round pick in either of the past two Major League Baseball drafts.

Here’s the twist. Whether it’s been due to great coaching or maybe the fact that the Angels front office crew led by General Manager Jerry DiPoto are better at evaluating talent than given credit for – the Arkansas Travelers, since 2011 have won more games in the North Division of the Texas League than any other team including the Northwest Arkansas Naturals and Springfield Cardinals both of whom are constantly stacked with highly rated talent.

In the post Mike Trout era (2011 to present) the Travs have won 217 games to date – more than the Tulsa Drillers, Cardinals and Naturals. During that time period the Angels farm system was ranked no higher than No. 15 among all MLB clubs according to Baseball America and as low as dead last the past two years. In that same time period the Royals (Naturals) had the best farm system in 2011 and No. 2 in 2012. The Cardinals were tabbed the best minor league system in all of baseball in 2013.

Also during that time – the Travs represented the Northern Division twice in the Texas League Championship Series (2011, 2013) and won more games last season (74) than they have in their 13-year affiliation with the Angels. It was also the most since 1998 when Arkansas was linked with the St. Louis Cardinals.

It’s all good food for thought as the Angels will have a first round selection this year and are diligently working to rebuild the farm system. Arkansas currently has six of the Halos top 10 prospects taking the field at DSP with the addition of Cam Bedrosian to the roster.

Travs fans though,  hope the poor rankings and lot of wins and success trend continues.

Dave Barr (@daveabarr)