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Don't think Franklin can quite be grouped in the same talent class as Pineda/Ackley/Smoak, but do see him with the potential for an All-Star career similar to Mike Young or Stephen Drew. Not many SS's with 20+ HR power, double digit SB's, and the ability to hit for average despite high K's and moderately low BB's.
Pineda (rated top 5 SP), Ackley (#11 on 2010 list), and Smoak (#13 on 2010 list) are all undeniable Top 25 talents. Franklin is a Top 50, maybe a Top 25. Saunders (#30 on 2010 list) and Moore (#83 on 2010 list) are definite Top 100 talents.
Poythress (.950 OPS at A+ in first full season) and Halman (#57 on 2009 list, 32 HR in 399 AB at AAA) are strong candidates for next year's Top 100.
In addition to those EIGHT, you've also got possibles in Triunfel (#89 on 2009 list), Liddi (.812 OPS in age 21 season at AA, 1.000+ OPS at A+ last year), and Seagar (.344/.419/.492 at A+ in first full season).
Then even on top of that, you've got the #3 pick in next year's draft - which is already hyped as having the franchise MLB ready college bat and three #1 overall caliber college arms. And there's a guy in the majors named Felix Hernandez who is signed through 2014 and still the age of most rookies.
I do believe the M's need to sign a frontline SP (and have the money to do it), but they've got to be near the front of the pack in both top-end rookie/prospect talent and depth. Could really see Ichiro being the weak link in the offense in 2012.