Houston Astros Top Three Second Base Prospects For 2019
Now that 2019 is here, it is time to start looking at the top three prospects at each position as we lead up to the Astros top 30 prospect list. This week I will look at the second base position.
Top 3 Prospects By Position:
1. Luis Santana (Rookie)
The 19 year old infielder was signed by the Mets as an international free agent out of the Dominican Republic in 2016 as one of their more expensive signings and traded to Houston just a week at go. Santana was ranked among the Mets’ top 30 prospects at the time of the trade. In his short time in pro ball thus far, the kid has done nothing but hit. Across 3 seasons his career numbers are astronomical: .329/426/.465 with a 64BB/52K ratio. Although he has hit just 7 homers, he has shown some pop with his 29 doubles. The source of excitement behind Luis is a quick bat and an outstanding ability to make consistent, hard contact on all types of pitches. Scouts see him as a spark plug type player. Santana’s line over the last two seasons: 118 G, .336 BA/.437 OBP/.476 SLG, 158 wRC+.
2018 Stats: 53 G, .348 BA/.446 OBP/.471 SLG, 13 2B, 4 HR, 35 RBI, 27 BB/23 SO, 8 SB
2. Enmanuel Valdez (A-)
Valdez has been in the Astros system since he was signed in 2015. He played more third base in 2018 but I still think he profiles better for second base. He is built similar to Santana at 5-9 and 175 lbs. Valdez played the 2018 season in the NYPL at just 19 years old. He held his own posting a .731 OPS over 63 games good for a 116 wRC+. Valdez barrells up balls consistently and has good hand-eye coordination. He still has some work to do defensively but is very young and should be in full-season ball this year.
2018 Stats: 123 G, .244 BA/.311 OBP/.420 SLG, 16 2B, 8 HR, 22 RBI, 11 SB, 22 BB/53 SO
3. Jack Mayfield (AAA)
Mayfield was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2013 and has made his way through the system hitting the ball at every level. In 2018 he played in AAA the entire season and had a .782 OPS and a 101 wRC+. He did rack up 31 doubles and 16 HR in 113 games. Mayfield has played all over the infield in his minor league career and probably profiles best as a utility type at the major league level. He is 28 year old.
2018 Stats: 113 G, .270 BA/.324 OBP/.457 SLG, 31 2B, 16 HR, 66 RBI, 33 BB/92 SO
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**Photo Credit: Getty Images**
