Full disclosure: I am NOT a scout. I’ve been a huge baseball fan since before I could walk, but I have no idea what to look for when it comes to trying to evaluate baseball talent. I was certain Nolan Reimold would be a perennial MVP candidate by now, for instance (though, if he could stay healthy…). However, the guy who provided me with these scouting reports knows what he’s talking about. He wishes to remain anonymous for various reasons, so I’m just passing along this information.
Those of you who fancy yourselves amateur scouts, feel free to compare notes and agree or disagree.
photo: Craig Landefeld
Jonah Heim – Catcher, drafted in the 4th Round in 2013. 2015 will be age 20 season.
He has the makings of a fringe all-star, defensively. Strong arm and subtle agility that should see a quality setup over time. He has the bat speed and barrels the ball up well in the cage. He has the raw skill set of ‘average’ hit tool with ‘slightly above average’ power. If the bat can be average, he should be an everyday catcher. He is the best shot for the next long-term catcher of all the guys currently in the system.
Zach Davies – RHP, drafted in the 26th Round in 2011. 2015 will be age 22 season.
His command has gone from ‘above average’ to ‘plus’ for both the fastball and change-up. He works pinpoint to both sides of the plate. His ability to keep batters honest with an average curve gives him a three-pitch mix that could sit in the 4 spot in a rotation in the AL East.
photo: Craig Landefeld
Josh Hart – OF, drafted in the 1st Round in 2013. 2015 will be age 20 season.
He is the best blend of athlete and player in the system. He will flash some speed and I see more of gap-to-gap power than a power bat. His game flashes a similar skill set to Dave Roberts.
For those unfamiliar, Dave Roberts had a 10-year career (1999-2008) for Cleveland, Boston, San Diego, San Francisco, and the L.A. Dodgers. He put up a .266/.342/.366 line for his career, with 243 stolen bases.
