Drafted in the 10th round (316th overall) by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2009 (signed for $90,000).
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
After playing 29 games in the Arizona League in 2009, Roberts was sent back to that circuit and impressed scouts with his dramatic improvement. Still a teenager, he projects to be a regular catcher in the majors who can contribute offensively and defensively. Slightly ahead as an offensive player, Roberts showed improved pop from his first season. He displayed good plate discipline and the ability to put the ball in play when necessary. Roberts has worked hard on strength and conditioning, firming up what was a somewhat soft body, and benefited greatly from working with catching instructor Charlie Greene. His arm is average to a tick above, but with improved footwork he should be able to control the running game. He threw out 32 percent of basestealers last year. Very raw coming out of the draft, Roberts made a big leap in calling games in his second pro season and showed he understood how to set up hitters. The pro coaching was invaluable because Roberts said most of the catching nuances he picked up in high school came from watching Atlanta Braves games on TV growing up in Georgia. He held up well catching in the heat in Arizona and should only get better with experience and maturity.
Minor League Top Prospects
Roberts had a decent 2009 pro debut in the AZL after Milwaukee drafted him in the 10th round from a rural Georgia high school. He returned to Arizona in 2010, helped the Brewers win the league title and projects as a solid regular in the big leagues. Nicknamed "Country," Roberts ranked second in the league with 17 doubles and sixth with six homers. Brewers manager Tony Diggs lauded him for having no fear at the plate, and also for his makeup. He worked hard this year to keep his weight under control and to improve his conditioning. His offense is ahead of his defense, though he has made significant refinements working with Brewers minor league catching instructor Charlie Greene. Roberts was very raw in 2009, having learned most of what he knew about catching from watching Braves games on television. His setup behind the plate is now good, and his arm is average and could improve with better footwork.
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