Getty Images
At just 21 years old, Mookie Betts is expected to make his major league debut on national television on Sunday night when the Boston Red Sox take on the New York Yankees.
Coming into the season, Betts was 61st on Keith Law’s top 100 prospect list. Law had this to say about Betts at the plate,
“He has some early hand movement before he loads his swing, but it’s window-dressing and doesn’t prevent him from being short and direct to the ball, with good hip rotation and some loft in his finish that could eventually produce 20-homer power. He’s a plus runner and at least a 55-grade defender at second, with good range to his right and the athleticism to end up plus there; I know some scouts see him as a potential shortstop if the opportunity were to arise. His best attribute might be his feel for the strike zone; he’s very balanced at the plate, even when he sees off-speed stuff, and makes quick adjustments within each at bat like a player with more pro experience would.”
Betts’ minor league stats certainly back up that scouting report. He’s flown through the minor leagues; he hit .355 with six home runs, 56 runs and 22 steals in 54 games in AA, and .322 with two home runs, 14 runs and seven steals in 23 games in AAA this season before getting the call to the Bigs.
Betts should see plenty of opportunities too; the plan is to have him see time in center field and right field, along with shortstop and third base — the Red Sox are hoping to at least have him start five games per week.
Betts has the potential to be an impact bat (with elite speed potential) who qualifies at multiple positions and is a must-add in all leagues.
Billy Moy is a Fantasy Sports writer at www.RantSports.com. You can follow him on Twitter @william_moy6, “like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
