Michael Young

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Texas Rangers #7 prospect in 2001
  Will Young be better than Pirates second baseman Warren Morris? The Rangers essentially traded Morris for Young. Morris was the key player given up in 1998 for righthander Esteban Loiaza, who was dumped on Toronto last summer for Young and righthander Darwin Cubillan. The Rangers wanted Young for his athleticism. He runs well and has an excellent arm, good enough to play the outfield if necessary. The Blue Jays had Young batting cleanup at times, but the Rangers turned him into a leadoff hitter because of his quick swing. He responded, though he still needs to draw more walks. Young is still learning how to use his speed on the bases. He tends to be tentative. Young also can be too deliberate on defense. The Blue Jays had moved him to second base, but he returned to shortstop after the trade. Settling on a position for Young was an issue--until the Rangers signed Alex Rodriguez. Young clearly won't be playing shortstop in Texas, and he's probably better suited for second base anyway. Unfortunately for him, he'll have to contend with Romano.
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  Ranked Toronto Blue Jays #4 prospect in 2000
  Background: Young was primarily an outfielder in college and didn't become a full-time middle infielder until he joined the Blue Jays. Young alternated between second base and shortstop at Dunedin and played short in the California Fall League. Strengths: Young has two above-average tools in his arm strength and speed. His actions are best suited to second base, where his arm gives him a powerful weapon. Young has a short, quick swing and can drive the ball to right-center field with authority. He handles the bat well and has good plate discipline. Weaknesses: The organization has persuaded Young to become more aggressive on the bases because he has the physical ability to steal more bases. Young's actions in the middle infield can be long but are improving. The Future: Multitalented middle infielders are too valuable, so Young will stay in the infield. If he continues to improve, Young could rack up 50 stolen bases and 50 extra-base hits at Double-A Knoxville in 2000.
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  Ranked Toronto Blue Jays #11 prospect in 1999