Drafted in the 22nd round (649th overall) by the Tampa Bay Rays in 2006 (signed for $125,000).
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Thomas has flown under the radar for six pro seasons since signing for $125,000 as a draft-and-follow in the spring of 2007. He hasn't drawn much attention because of his modest results with the bat, which continued in the first half of 2012, when he batted .201/.292/.262 in Double-A. He suddenly caught fire after the all-star break, batting .302/.352/.494. After years of trying to pull everything, he did a better job of hitting the ball where it was pitched. If Thomas' offensive gains are real, and he can hit for a decent average with double-digit home run power, he'll find a role in Tampa Bay. He's the best defensive catcher in the system, starting with an above-average arm and quick transfer that helped him throw out a Southern League-best 46 percent of basestealers last season. A complete package behind the plate, he calls a good game, does a solid job of blocking and receiving and works well with pitchers. His defense alone could make him a big league backup, and he could carve out more regular playing time provided his bat is productive. He should make the move to Triple-A in 2013, with a promotion to Tampa Bay at some point during the season a possibility.
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Rated Best Defensive Catcher in the Tampa Bay Rays in 2013
Rated Best Defensive Catcher in the Tampa Bay Rays in 2012
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