Let’s dig a little bit deeper today and look at a prospect who is still a few years away. Could the Red Sox’ Xander Bogaerts ultimately develop into a can’t miss fantasy start? The potential is definitely there, so let’s start to get acquainted with him:
- 19-years old
- Shortstop
- Right-handed hitter
- Signed by Boston Red Sox in 2009 out of Aruba
- Hit .260 with 16 HR and 45 RBI in 265 AB at low Single-A in 2011
- Added 14 doubles and 2 triples showing that the power has room to continue developing
- Has followed that up a High Single-A by hitting .295 with 11 HR and 45 RBI in 254 AB
- Strikeouts could be a problem, with a 24.0% rate in ’11 and 21.6% thus far in ’12
- Is showing an improved eye at the plate, with a 9.2% walk rate in ’12 (8.4% in ’11)
- Has yet to show much speed, with 4 SB in 519 total at bats
- Baseball America ranked as the #58 prospect prior to the season; mlb.com ranked him #65
- Will participate in 2012 Futures Game
- Speculation is he may have to shift off of shortstop, with a move to third base or the outfield possible
- According to Baseball America, “He has an easy swing loaded with natural power, and he makes hard contact to all fields. While he still needs to learn the strike zone, he has already shown the ability to make adjustments and handle breaking balls. He could be a .280 hitter with 30 home runs in the majors, and that might be setting the bar low. “
Conclusion:
He is obviously still a few years away from reaching Fenway Park, but he’s a player worth keeping a close eye on. If he reaches the type of potential that is being discussed he will be a prominent fantasy option upon reaching the Majors regardless of the position he plays.
He’s a name that can easily start to climb up preseason prospect lists as he matures and moves up the levels. Keep his name in mind, but figure he won’t reach the Majors before 2014.
