Chris Nelson

Cardinals · Post by **Cardinals** » Wed Jan 23, 2008 12:57 pm

2. Chris Nelson, SS
DOB: 9/3/85
Height/Weight: 5-11/176
Bats/Throws: R/R
Drafted: 1st round, 2004, Redan HS (GA)
2007 Stats: .289/.358/.503 at High-A (133 G)

Year In Review: The club's top 2004 pick, Nelson recovered from a pair of nondescript seasons at Low-A with a breakout campaign in the California League that earned high grades from scouts.
The Good: Nelson has the bat speed and strength to hit 20+ home runs annually, and the wheels to supply 20 stolen bases as well. His mature approach and excellent feel for contact should also allow him to hit for a high average. His athleticism assists him defensively as well, as he shows good range and a plus arm.
The Bad: Nelson relies too much on his athleticism defensively, and needs to improve his instincts and fundamentals. He focuses more on contact against left-handers, and shows little power against southpaws.
Fun Fact: Nelson is the highest drafted player in Redan High's history, a school that also graduated Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips and his brother P.J. (in the Angels system), as well as toolsy Phillies prospect Dominic Brown.
Perfect World Projection: An above-average, borderline star shortstop.
Timetable: Nelson is blocked by Troy Tulowitzki, and while there has been some talk of moving him to center field, he'll stay at shortstop for now to maintain his trade value. He'll take the big step up to Double-A in 2008.

Yankees · Post by **Yankees** » Wed Jan 23, 2008 1:16 pm

Hey, I've always maintained I'm rooting for him - I just can't see it. It was his 3rd in at A ball, and it's not like those are truly "breakout" #'s. I'm glad he keeps pushing, and here's hoping he pans out.

My whole argument on him was based more on my growing disliking for Josh then anything else...

Royals · Post by **Royals** » Wed Jan 23, 2008 1:50 pm

unimpressive numbers for a 22yr old in A ball

BlueJays · Post by **BlueJays** » Wed Jan 23, 2008 4:00 pm

haha.. you guys are something else.. nelson is back on the map, and you can't even stone up and admit it.

I'm not sayin he's going to make it, but he's back on the radar.

Royals · Post by **Royals** » Wed Jan 23, 2008 4:19 pm

No he isn't. He's back on Goldstein's radar. Rating him a 4 star (out of 5) prospect is flat out ridiculous. His numbers at his age in his situation just don't justify that kind of effusive praise. BA put him at #7, which is reasonable. #2? Ha! Better than Ian Stewart? No chance.