http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?id=1571690 Monday, June 23, 2003 Chris H. asks: I'd like to know your take on Twins outfield prospect Lew Ford? I have never seen him play, but from all reports, he seems to be a guy who deserves a shot in a major-league outfield somewhere. He has speed, some power, hits for average, has a knack for scoring runs, seems to have a good approach to hitting, and has been rated as one of the top defensive center fielders at each level in the minors. I know he is getting old for a prospect, but that seems to be more due to circumstances beyond his control with the Twins' loaded outfield. Ford was hitting .318 (.370 on-base percentage, .486 slugging percentage) at Triple-A Rochester through April and May, earning a promotion to the majors on May 29. His playing time since being called up has been sporadic, but Ford has done very well, going 12-for-32 for a .375 average. He was great last year at Double-A and Triple-A, combining for a .318 average with 20 homers and 28 steals. Ford was originally in the Red Sox's system, a 12th-round pick in 1999 out of Dallas Baptist University. He was traded to the Twins for Hector Carrasco in September, 2000. Although he doesn't have any one overwhelming tool or skill, he does a lot of things well and is a fundamentally sound player. He is ready for major-league action right now, and in a full year he should hit .280- .300 with double-digit home run and steal production. As you point out, the Twins have a glut of hitters. They can't even find playing time for Michael Cuddyer, and the recent promotion of Justin Morneau, who is also hitting well, further clogs up the DH/1B/OF slots. Ford can play, and does enough things to be a fine starting outfielder for many teams. If the Twins can't use him, someone will. --

※ 發信站: 批踢踢實業坊(ptt.cc) ◆ From: 140.112.251.104 ※ 編輯: tradewind 來自: 140.112.251.104 (05/01 22:28)