- Full name Florian Villanueva
- Born 10/05/1980 in
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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After three years in the Rookie-level Dominican Summer League, Villanueva was brought to the United States in 2001. He made a big splash at Ogden with his ability to hit for average and power and to drive in runs. Even more impressive was the versatility he showed while starting games at catcher, second base, third base and the outfield. The Brewers believe his future is behind the plate, where he shows nice instincts and skills for a young player, though he saw more action at the hot corner. He has an infielder's hands and feet and really moves around well. Villanueva threw out 13 of 24 (54 percent) basestealers last year, and the Brewers consider him potentially the best all-around catcher in their system. He likely will get the opportunity to play in low Class A in 2002, though fellow backstop prospect Jason Belcher may also be sent there to work on his defense.