Ramon Mercedes

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Tampa Bay Rays #28 prospect in 2002
  After spending two seasons in the Rookie-level Dominican Summer League, where he hit .301, Mercedes continued his development in the United States last year. One of the best defensive shortstops in the Appalachian League, he has soft hands and a strong arm. He also has above-average range and is capable of making the routine plays as well as the occasional spectacular one. Mercedes' greatest weakness is a lack of overall strength. He has a smooth swing and makes consistent contact with a good knowledge of the strike zone, but power pitchers can knock the bat out of his hands. The Rays believe his hitting ability will be fine once he adds some muscle to his 160-pound frame. Still making adjustments, he could start to blossom in low Class A this year.