Ruben Gotay

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Kansas City Royals #11 prospect in 2004
  Gotay led the low Class A Midwest League in doubles and extra-base hits in 2002, but regressed offensively last season. He ranked fifth in the Carolina League in doubles, but his average dipped. The Royals attribute that to opponents focusing on Gotay, who hit third in the Wilmington lineup, and avoiding throwing him fastballs. He did rebound in Puerto Rico over the winter. Gotay has gap power and the ability to use the entire field. He must improve his strength and conditioning. He has tired out down the stretch the last two seasons, and the extra strength would add more carry to his drives. Gotay has struggled against lefthanders throughout his career. He's limited defensively, with fringe arm strength and footwork that need improvement. He compensates for his arm with a quick release. He and shortstop Andres Blanco developed a strong defensive rapport working together for the first time in high Class A, and he also served as Blanco's translator. Gotay played third base in Puerto Rico but doesn't project to have the power for the position. A purely offensive second baseman, Gotay will benefit by moving from Wilmington to Wichita in 2004.
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  Ranked Kansas City Royals #13 prospect in 2003
  He might not ooze tools and projectability, but Gotay continues to produce the offensive numbers to force his way into the organization's plans. He demonstrates great field awareness and instincts, which allow him to play above the sum of his physical tools. Gotay followed up a solid debut by leading the Midwest League in doubles and extra-base hits in 2002, his first full pro season. He has gap power and uses the whole field. A switch-hitter, Gotay was significantly better from the left side, hitting 91 points higher (.313 versus .222) with eight of his nine homers. He has average speed at best and must work on his baserunning. Because he doesn't run as well as the typical middle infielder, he only has average range at second base. His fielding has improved, though he still needs work on his double-play pivot. Gotay has a tendency to wait for throws on top of the base rather than coming through it as he receives the ball. The Royals like his bat, but Gotay will have to keep proving himself at each level, continuing in high Class A this year.