Jose Ronda
| AB | 387 |
|---|---|
| AVG | .261 |
| OBP | .334 |
| SLG | .398 |
| HR | 6 |
- Full name Jose William Ronda
- Born 06/08/1985 in San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Profile Ht.: 6'2" / Wt.: 175 / Bats: S / Throws: R
- School Gabriela Mistral
- Drafted in the 3rd round (81st overall) by the Cincinnati Reds in 2003 (signed for $440,000).
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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The Reds were high on several of Puerto Rico's top prospects after seeing them in a predraft showcase on the island, and Ronda's offensive upside in the middle of the diamond helped him emerge as their favorite. Then-scouting director Leland Maddox fell in love with Ronda's makeup after visiting with him and watching his brother throw batting practice to him every night at a field across the street from his house. A switch-hitter, Ronda is more comfortable from the left side and often neglects his righthanded stroke. He uses his hands well at the plate, which enables him to center the ball consistently and make solid contact. He has a natural uppercut which should lead to more home run power as he develops. He also starts his hip before his hands, causing his front side to fly off the ball. Defensively, he might not have the speed to stay at shortstop. Depending on how he develops at the plate, he could move to second or third base. Catching is also a long-term possibility because of his plus arm strength and strong lower half. If he doesn't start 2004 at low Class A, he could get there by the end of the season.
