Sleeper of the Week

Lyle Overbay is not having a good spring. Through 21 games played, Arizona’s prized prospect is hitting a mere .204 to go with just four rbi. Often, the 25-year-old has looked overmatched; so far, he certainly hasn’t resembled the player the Diamondbacks hope he can become.

Don’t lose faith quite yet, however. Overbay might not be destined for instant success, but he remains one of the top hitting prospects the National League has to offer. In his last two seasons at AA El Paso and AAA Tucson, Overbay never hit below .340. That sort of potential is reason enough to be a bit patient.

Arizona had enough confidence in Overbay’s skills to ship highly-touted Erubiel Durazo to Oakland during the offseason, and we feel that this confidence will be rewarded in the long run. Overbay already has excellent bat speed and a good hitting eye, and it’s not out of the question that he’ll develop a bit more power to complete the package. Being in a position to learn from Mark Grace won’t hurt, either.

If you’re already set at first base, but would like to add a keeper with high upside to your roster, consider signing Overbay. He might not become an impact player this season, but his future looks very bright.