When evaluating a prospect, on-field performance is important, but it’s not the overriding factor. Just because you see a prospect perform subpar on one occasion doesn’t necessarily suggest his future performance will be subpar. Obviously, you want to see a potential prospect be successful on the field, but the human factor needs to be considered.
Players are not robots. Some of the underlying factors to be considered are: Does the prospect handle pressure well? Is the prospect even keeled, doesn’t get too high or too low? Taking situations in stride is important.
Players are not robots. Some of the underlying factors to be considered are: Does the prospect handle pressure well? Is the prospect even keeled, doesn’t get too high or too low? Taking situations in stride is important.
Whether the prospect goes 4-4 or 0-4, is the mood still upbeat? Seeing the prospect stay positive and playing hard regardless of the circumstances shows commitment and resiliency. As far as statistics go, they can be deceiving. I believe the old adage, “There are lies, damned lies, and statistics!” In the new age baseball world of sabermetrics, hidden value exists. Some of the old statistical analysis is outdated and does not offer a true assessment of talent. I like to see raw numbers, but I think more intrinsic value can be found elsewhere. For example, does the prospect make “in game” or “pitch by pitch” adjustments at the plate? Does the prospect in the field recognize a hitter’s tendencies or type of pitch thrown to make adjustments accordingly?
So, I consider some of the traditional statistics, but realize many newer methods of evaluating prospects are important. Lastly, the prospects overall demeanor plays a strong role in the process of the evaluation.
So, I consider some of the traditional statistics, but realize many newer methods of evaluating prospects are important. Lastly, the prospects overall demeanor plays a strong role in the process of the evaluation.
