A smooth, switch-hitting shortstop who reminds some of a young Tony Fernandez, de la Cruz is another addition to the bulging list of shortstop prospects in the organization. In his first year in the United States, he finished fourth in the Rookie-level Appalachian League batting race. He also showed some gap power, though he'll need to draw a few more walks to become an effective leadoff hitter. De la Cruz is a solid average runner and has the potential to steal 20-25 bases in the majors. He has loose actions and plenty of arm for short. He always seems to be in the right place at the right time and has an innate feel for the game. De la Cruz will get his first taste of full-season ball in 2003.
Minor League Top Prospects
De la Cruz showed excellent hitting mechanics, allowing him to put together a 21-game hitting streak and place fourth in the batting race. His short, quick swing from both sides of the plate allows him to make excellent contact. He needs to get stronger because his power is almost nonexistent. Defensively, de la Cruz makes the routine plays but hasn't shown the consistency to make the spectacular ones. While some managers were concerned about his small stature, most agreed that his ability to play small ball will earn him promotions up the ladder. "He's a good bunter and he has good quickness and speed," Smith said. "He really enjoys himself on the field, and he has a contagious personality. He has that natural leadership you like to see in a shortstop."
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