This is the first in an ongoing series of 2014 Profiles. I will be looking closer at MLB’s top propects who will have a real Fantasy impact on the 2014 season. We are starting with Tigers’ top prospect Nick Castellanos. Enjoy, and feel free to comment below, or even request more Prospects as well.
There is always excitement when a prospect, especially a top prospect in an organization gets the call, or is expected to start the season in the majors.
The Detroit Tigers’ recent trade of Prince Fielder allowed the Tigers to move Miguel Cabrera back to first base, and left an opening at third for super prospect Nick Castellanos to play his natural position.
Castellanos is expected to be the Opening Day third baseman, and should provide more than adequate defensive abilities at the hot-corner for the Tigers. Drafted 44th Overall in 2010 by Detroit, many have been anticipating to see him in the majors. This season, the wait is over.
Prospect Nick Castellanos, 3B, Detroit
Tigers prospect Nick Castellanos could be playing the hot corner in Motown on Opening Day. Photo Credit: Keith Allison
Age: 22, Ht: 6’4″, Wt: 210 lbs
Bats/Throws: Right-Handed
What We’ve Seen So Far
Castellanos has a quick and easy swing, which helps him stay in the .270-.300 average range, and has room to grow into a 20-25 HR player.
Actually, he is close to those numbers already, but with his first year in the majors, it may take some time to keep up.
He can, however, hit the ball to all areas of the field, and this should help stabilize his batting average.
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Castellanos is better defensively at his natural position third base, and he will play there in 2014. This is great news as young players tend to perform better initially when they are comfortable in the field.
He is not the speediest of players, but his other counting categories should help carry him into a top-tier third baseman down the road.
Castellanos played in 11 games for the Tigers late last season, and held his own for them. His minor league line was comparable to what he put up in that short sample, which should be a good sign for his first full season in the majors. His power surge and 37 doubles in Toledo are a big plus, and a good sign for his future to combine power and extra-base hits.
A few concerns for Castellanos are his speed, defensive ability (if he plays outfield), and his ability to see and connect with breaking balls. These are relatively minor things, which can be improved.
Castellanos’ Prospects Going Forward
Castellanos should be considered a late-round player in standard re-draft leagues. In Keeper or Dynasty formats, his potential should bump his value significantly. In your standard re-draft leagues, current comparable players would be Trevor Plouffe, Lonnie Chisenhall, and fellow prospect Cody Asche, who got the call in 2013. Castellanos’ ceiling is much higher, but for 2014 I am lumping him with these guys.
As with all prospects, temper expectations but don’t be surprised if you see a final line in 2014 similar to this:
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Now that you’ve learned all about prospect Nick Castellanos, be prepared for more 2014 Prospect Profiles, as well as Positional, Prospect and Overall Rankings. Keep your eyes peeled!
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