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October 4, 2012

Fall Instructional League Report

Red Sox/Orioles

by Chris Mellen

One of the major reasons I like Fall Instructs is that I get to see a cluster of prospects that would otherwise be spread out during the season. It also serves as a nice way to close out the year, while also building a scouting base for the next one. Despite the positives, though, finishing up with Instructs is always bittersweet, since I know it’s my last time out at the field until spring training. Like I mentioned on Tuesday, this year’s Instructs were particularly exciting since I was expanding my coverage, and I’m already eager to go again in 2013.   

Today’s report focuses on the other two organizations I covered during this past week’s trip down to Fort Myers. Given my familiarity with the Red Sox, the featured players are ones I was either targeting for follow-up looks, or players I knew I’d be getting my first crack at and who I feel may begin to make some moves this coming season. I usually see the majority of Orioles’ prospects in the Eastern and International Leagues, but the lower levels were uncharted waters, so today’s Orioles players are those who left an early impression out of the ones I was able to see.      

Boston Red Sox

OF Manuel Margot: Margot’s a relatively unknown player, but that’s going to change, as the toolsy 18-year-old didn’t really look out of place at all on the diamond amongst the more experienced guys. I set out to study his swing during batting practice and the consistency he showed with keeping his hands in a good hitting position really jumped out. There’s separation during his stride, which allowed the hands to stay back and quickly explode through the ball with some leverage to create backspin. This ability also carried over into game action, along with the makings of a relaxed approach in the box, two positive signs that Margot’s hit tool can begin to translate during the early career as his level of experience builds. Presently lean, there’s projection for moderate physical development and growth into his 6-foot frame. It like