AB 263
AVG .224
OBP .266
SLG .262
HR 1
  • Full name Thomas Samuel Manzella
  • Born 04/16/1983 in Chalmette, LA
  • Profile Ht.: 6'2" / Wt.: 200 / Bats: R / Throws: R
  • School Tulane
  • Debut 09/08/2009
  • Drafted in the 3rd round (89th overall) by the Houston Astros in 2005 (signed for $289,000).
    View Draft Report
    Manzella wasn't drafted a year ago after hitting .311 in a lackluster junior season, but his stock is rising along with his offensive performance in 2005. He's a legitimate shortstop with some potential at the plate, a fifth-round talent who could go higher than that because he comes with a discount as a college senior. His situation is similar to that of Tony Giarratano, his predecessor as Tulane's shortstop. Giarratano rebounded from a terrible 2002 season to go to the Tigers in the third round of the 2003 draft. Manzella has better hands and instincts but less speed than Giarratano, whom he pushed to second base in 2002. It remains to be seen whether Manzella can make the huge jump with his bat that Giarratano has since turning pro. His range and arm are at least average, so he should be able to stay at shortstop.

Top Rankings

Organization Prospect Rankings

Best Tools List

  • Rated Best Defensive Infielder in the Houston Astros in 2009
  • Rated Best Defensive Infielder in the Houston Astros in 2008
  • Rated Best Infield Arm in the Houston Astros in 2007
  • Rated Best Defensive Infielder in the Houston Astros in 2007
  • Rated Best Defensive SS in the South Atlantic League in 2006
  • Rated Best Infield Arm in the Houston Astros in 2006
  • Rated Best Defensive Infielder in the Houston Astros in 2006

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