What's So Special About Jason Herward?

[rasto21585]

Seriously there so much hype surrounding this guy. Is this guy really a stud or will just end up a dud. Sure last year in the minors is posted an above average batting avg, but he didn't show the power or speed that everyone is raving about. Maybe you guys can help explain why he is drafted within the first five players in dynasty leagues.

[DevilDriver]

Sure he didn't put up eye-popping power numbers, but that's to be expected considering he was only 18 - his overall numbers were outstanding for an 18 yo playing his first pro season. Not only does he have the tools to be a perennial All-Star, but he's also extremely polished; a lot of players have upside, but only the special ones have upside AND polish.

[thomasps3]

Sure he didn't put up eye-popping power numbers, but that's to be expected considering he was only 18 - his overall numbers were outstanding for an 18 yo playing his first pro season. Not only does he have the tools to be a perennial All-Star, but he's also extremely polished; a lot of players have upside, but only the special ones have upside AND polish.

I couldn't agree with you more DD. Hmmm, here afew reasons why Heyward is the future face of the Atlanta Braves:
5 tool skills:
Rakes with authority. As the 3rd youngest player in the Sally League last year, which by the way is not a huge hitters league, he raked his way to a .323 avg, which was 3rd, and got on base at a .388 clip, again, stressing that as an 18 year old in his first season, cannot be underestimated.
Arm:
Plus arm and range that provides accuracy that ensures he is not a defensive liability
Speed:
Average speed with very intelligent baseball instincts that enable him to capitalize on situations that are presented during the course of a game.
Batting Eye:
Outstanding eye at the plate to go along with his ability to make in game adjustments that belie his age bode extremely well for comparisons that have been mentioned, and should have you frothing at the mouth for him to be on your team, of Willie freaking McCovey and Dave freaking Parker!!!


I hope this helps

[rasto21585]

bump please

[Steve-o]

As others mentioned, he excelled for being so long for the league. That is a big, big deal.

Otherwise, it is all about the potential scouts see in his size. He can fill out a bit and the power is very projectable. Even if the power doesn't reach 30+ hr, I think power in the 20s with a good average is pretty nice. I also have read that scouts are fairly confident about his ability to reach his potential because of makeup.

[ReeferDave]

A friend of mine love doing prospect lists on his site. First he did the Arizona Diamondbacks. Last week he posted the Braves. His listing of Heyward #1 and his sharp analysis tell you all you need to know about Whats So Special About Jason Heyward! Give it a read.

http://baseballinstinct.com/2009/04/13/ ... prospects/


Another guy to watch for Atlanta is Randal Delgado.