- Full name Rick Elder
- Born
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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Background: Elder immediately impressed the Orioles development staff with his offensive ability and maturity. A first baseman/lefthander in high school, Elder made a smooth transition to the outfield. Strengths: Elder was drafted on his potential as a lefthanded power hitter. He has the strength to take the ball out of every part of the park, but also showed an advanced knowledge of the strike zone and mature approach for his age. Thought by most scouts to be a one-tool player, Elder showed average speed in the field and on the bases. Weaknesses: After throwing a lot of innings during the spring and switching positions after signing, Elder came down with a sore elbow and had to be shut down before the end of the '98 season. The Orioles were cautiously optimistic that it was simply fatigue and tendinitis. The Future: The Orioles have been aggressive with high ceiling players and think they may have scored with Elder's hitting skills and athletic ability. They would like to keep Elder in the outfield as long as possible, but first base is always a viable option.
Minor League Top Prospects
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Elder has the ability to play either outfield corner as well as first base, but a nagging arm injury and soreness limited him to first base for much of the season. He's a big, strong, aggressive hitter with excellent lefthanded power. He should hit for average as well and runs well for his size. Elder spent his first season in the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League.
