6. Kevin Ahrens, 3b Born: April 26, 1989 B-T: B-R Ht: 6-1 Wt: 205 Drafted: HS—Houston, 2007 (1st round). Signed by: Andy Beene. Background: Ahrens began switch-hitting and hitting for power during his junior year in high school, putting him on the path to go 16th overall in the 2007 draft and receive a $1.44 million bonus. He batted just .230/.339/.321 in the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League in his debut and struggled in the tough Midwest League in 2008. Strengths: Though the results have been underwhelming thus far, Ahrens has an easy swing from both sides of the plate and the patience to wait for his pitch. His all-fields approach is advanced for a young hitter and he figures to hit for a decent average with 20-homer power down the line. His lefty swing has improved to the point where he did more damage from that side in 2008 than from his natural right side. A converted shortstop, he has soft hands, good range to both sides and a plus-plus arm. Weaknesses: Some MWL observers regarded Ahrens' bat speed as no more than average, though no obvious mechanical flaw handicaps his upside. While he showed the ability to work counts, he also took a lot of first-pitch fastballs for strikes. Like Justin Jackson, Ahrens tailed off in the second half while adjusted to the physical and mental grind of playing every day for five months. He's a below-average runner but not bad underway. The Future: It may take him time to develop, but Ahrens' potential as a hitter and defender place him squarely at the top of the organization's third-base depth chart. He'll move up to high Class A and play alongside Jackson again in 2009. --

※ 發信站: 批踢踢實業坊(ptt.cc) ◆ From: 58.34.124.231