- Full name Pat Manning
- Born
- Profile Throws: R
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
-
Not unlike Brett Evert, Manning experienced somewhat of a comeback last year after an impressive debut in 1999 and a difficult campaign in 2000. He hit 23 home runs in Class A and made progress with his offensive game. While he made more consistent contact, Manning still has some holes in his big, uppercut swing and tries to do too much at the plate at times. The Braves would like for him to focus on hitting line drives in the gaps instead of home runs. Drafted as a shortstop and moved to second base during his first full pro season, Manning was shifted to third base in instructional league. His hands aren't particularly soft, and he needs more consistency with the leather as well as with his throws. He's scheduled to return to Myrtle Beach this year. -
Background: Few prep players from the 1999 draft had more success than Manning. He was leading the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League in hitting when he was promoted to Macon in August, a rarity for a first-year high school player in this organization. Strengths: Manning is a confident, pure hitter who has great instincts, a diamond rat who loves to play the game. Manning has a quick bat that should produce some power as his body matures. Scouts say his understanding and knowledge of the game at such a young age are uncanny. Weaknesses: Manning simply needs to play the game at the professional level. How he handles failure for the first time could determine how fast he moves up the ladder. Atlanta shifted him from shortstop to second base in instructional league because his range is better suited for the right side of the infield. The Future: Spring training will determine whether Manning returns to Macon or moves up to Myrtle Beach.
Minor League Top Prospects
-
One of the premier high school hitters in the 1999 draft, Manning overmatched the GCL with a .414 average before being promoted to the South Atlantic League. "The numbers speak for themselves," Braves manager Rick Albert said. "He's a pure hitter. He has really sound mechanics with the bat."
