- Full name Chris O'Riordan
- Born
- Profile Throws: R
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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O'Riordan didn't have as decorated a career as some San Diego prep players, but he is clearly a product of that city's outstanding quality of high school baseball. O'Riordan wasn't drafted out of high school and went on to a stellar career at Stanford, where he was a three-year starter and the Cardinal's most consistent hitter over that span. Short but solidly built and deceptively strong, O'Riordan has hit everywhere he has played. He proved his bat was his best tool in his debut, dominating the Rookie-level Appalachian League the way a college senior should and finishing second in the league batting race. O'Riordan is more than adequate at second base, though with his range and arm he'll never be confused for Roberto Alomar. He has good enough footwork on the double play and may have enough arm to spend some time at third base down the line. His key will be his performance. As long as he hits, he'll move up the ladder and could have a similar career to former Rangers utilityman Frank Catalanotto.
Minor League Top Prospects
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A college senior out of Stanford, O'Riordan wasn't young for the Appy League. But the former Cardinal walk-on showed the talent and knowledge to take his game to higher levels. None of his tools rate higher than slightly above average, but the sum is greater than the individual parts. He's a consistent fielder with a good arm for second base. He runs well and makes steady contact, which enabled him to rank second in the league in batting. He also is a student of the game and enjoys taking the field. More than one manager said O'Riordan could be an ideal utilityman in the major leagues. "He's a hard worker who has a chance to play in the big leagues due to his ability to do a lot of things well," Lopez said. "He learns from his mistakes and wants to get better. He makes up for a lack of tools with his heart and desire."