By Drew Olsen
February 3, 2003

Want More? Does 10 prospects per team only whet your appetite? How does 30 sound? If you want the more of in-depth information you're finding here on three times as many players, Baseball America's 2003 Prospect Handbook is for you.

1. Brad Nelson, 1b

Age: 20. B-T: L-R. Ht.: 6-2. Wt.: 220. Drafted: HS–Algona, Iowa, 2001 (4th round). Signed by: Harvey Kuenn Jr./Larry Doughty.

Background: Nelson was considered one of the top high school power hitters in 2001, and he put on an impressive batting-practice display during a predraft workout for the Brewers. He also excelled at various talent showcases, even showing a low-90s fastball from the mound, but he nevertheless lasted until the fourth round of the draft. He failed to homer in 105 at-bats in Rookie ball that summer. Well, his adjustment to wood bats is over. A strong Iowa farmboy, Nelson led the minors with 49 doubles and 116 RBIs. He punished pitchers throughout the season, though he seemed to run out of gas a little after he was promoted to high Class A High Desert at age 19.

Strengths: Nelson is the best all-around hitter in the system. He has good actions at the plate and has earned comparisons to Sean Casey, though Nelson should hit for more power. Managers rated Nelson, and not Marlins slugger Jason Stokes, as the top power hitter in the low Class A Midwest League. While scouts disagreed, they said Nelson had better pop to the opposite field. Few players can drive the ball as far the other way as Nelson can. His willingness to use the entire field enabled him to put up a strong first full season despite his youth and experience against inferior high school competition. Nelson’s arm remains strong and he has good hands, though each is less of an asset at first base than it was when he played third base as an amateur. Class A Beloit manager Don Money considered Nelson a favorite because of his attitude and work ethic.

Weaknesses: Pitchers will be loathe to challenge Nelson, so Money encouraged him to work the strike zone and take more walks. That lesson hasn’t taken yet, at least not to the extent needed. Nelson lacks speed and range, which prompted his move from the hot corner and makes him no more than an ordinary defender. He has a thick body and will have to work to stay in shape, though no one questions his willingness to do so.

The Future: Nelson probably will return to the California League at the start of 2003 and could reach Miller Park as early as 2005. The big question is where he’ll fit into Milwaukee’s lineup. A move to left field could be in Nelson’s future.

2002 Club (Class)	AVG	OBP	SLG	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	BB	SO	SB
Beloit (A)	.297	.353	.520	417	70	124	38	2	17	99	34	86	4
High Desert (A)	.255	.333	.451	102	24	26	11	0	3	17	12	28	0