Chris Nelson
Posted: 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.
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.