Atlanta Braves prospect Jason Heyward currently looks like a man amongst toddlers in Double-A. Through 28 games, Heyward has an immortal .415/.496/.702 Triple-Slash line. 43 Percent of Heyward’s Double-A hits have resulted in extra bases. To put that in perspective, here is a list of some current major league All-Star’s that posted a XBH% of ~40% in the minor leagues: Albert Pujols, Ryan Braun, Ryan Howard, David Ortiz, Andruw Jones, Lance Berkman.
Heyward is not quite at 40 Percent for his entire career, but he’s very close (36%). The most important thing in Heyward’s development as a hitter is his plate discipline. In 2008, Heyward’s BB/K ratio was 0.65. Not shabby for a power hitter, but could certainly use improvement. Improve on that number is exactly what Heyward has done this year. He currently has 38 Walks to 42 Strikeouts, good for a 0.90 ratio. This improved plate discipline (or pitcher’s respecting his talent) has resulted in a 34 point boost in OBP, and 22 points added on his Batting Average.
We know Heyward has 30+ Home Run Power, but he’s no slouch on the basepaths, either. Although his attempts are rare (25 attempts in 219 career games), he has proved to be very efficient, being successful in 84% of those 25 attempts. Nate McLouth is currently the only Brave with more than 10 steals on the season. They could certainly use another dual threat option for 2010.
When can we expect Heyward in Atlanta?
Heyward may get a cup of coffee when rosters expand on September 1st. However, we should see Heyward as a full time Atlanta Brave to open the 2010 season. The Braves one through four is pretty set in stone: McLouth, Yunel, Chipper, McCann. After that, Heyward would look great in the #5 hole. With 40 Home Run power, and the ability to steal 20+ bases, expect Heyward to be the top candidate for 2010 NL Rookie of the Year. Also, expect to see Heyward to be #1 on the majority of “Top Prospect Lists” coming out in the near future.
Comparable Players: Grady Sizemore, Curtis Granderson, Milton Bradley
2010 Prediction:
71 R - 18 HR - 69 RBI - 8 SB - .265 AVG
2011 Prediction:
90 R - 24 HR - 74 RBI - 12 SB - .288 AVG
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