Juan Valdes
| AB | 781 |
|---|---|
| AVG | .222 |
| OBP | .314 |
| SLG | .329 |
| HR | 16 |
- Full name Juan M. Valdes
- Born 06/22/1985 in Bayamon, Puerto Rico
- Profile Ht.: 6'0" / Wt.: 150 / Bats: S / Throws: R
- School Fernando Callejo
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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A cousin of Carlos Beltran, Valdes has similar potential. A switch-hitter since he was 14, he finishes his level swing with power and both hands on the bat all the way through the zone, a la Beltran. He has a more advanced approach from the left side, and he needs to show the ability to make more consistent hard contact from the right side. He recognized pitches well and shows a willingness to take walks. An adequate defender in center field, he has plus speed and arm strength. Valdes' quickness is more apparent than his power at this point, as he stole 41 bases in 47 attempts in just 63 games. He'll need to add more strength to his wiry frame to give himself a chance to continue to follow in Beltran's footsteps. He will begin his first full season at low Class A Lake County in 2005.
Minor League Top Prospects
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A cousin of Astros outfielder Carlos Beltran, Valdes possesses a similar skill set, especially defensively. Few cover more ground in center field, though his arm strength might be a tick below average. His pure speed and baserunning instincts placed him atop the league in steals and triples before he was promoted to the Sally League. The biggest question for Valdes comes at the plate. He's a slap hitter who must make more consistent contact and improve his bunting to fit at the top of an order. He also needs to add strength and improve his plate discipline. "He can go get 'em as good as anyone I've ever seen," Nelson said. "He killed us in the outfield. Defense and baserunning-wise, he could play in the big leagues right now. There's no telling what he could do if he's hitting, but he's got a long road to hoe there."
