Baseball Prospect Report

By John Klima
April 9, 2009

Simi Valley HS's Meyer takes pride in his hustle and defense

Growing up in Simi Valley, Jonathan Meyer spent his hours in the batting cages watching catcher Bryan Anderson, a player who understood that if he was going to play in the big leagues, he was going to have to hit his way there.

Anderson was drafted in the fourth round of the 2005 draft and is beginning the 2009 season on the Cardinals 40-man roster. He is starting his first full season at Triple-A.

Meyer would like to imitate Anderson’s career path. Anderson entered the 2009 season with a career minor league average of .306. Meyer’s summer helped improve his visibility among scouts, who are interested in his vital tools: an above-average throwing arm, ability to make contact, and a little taste of line-drive power from the right side.  There’s also some versatility for those scouts scoring at home. He began switch-hitting last summer and is learning his way around the plate as a left-handed hitter.

Baseball Beginnings talked with Meyer after his workout Tuesday.

BB: How did working with Bryan Anderson influence you as a hitter?
Meyer: I think patience. He worked hard. I used to always hit with him. We had the same hitting coach.

BB: What position do you see yourself playing at the next level?
Meyer: Probably third base or catcher. I caught this summer a lot.

BB: What position do you think athletically suits you best?
Meyer: Catcher or third.

BB: If you got to pick one, would you?
Meyer: I wouldn’t care. Give me a glove and I’ll play. I just see myself hitting in the majors.

BB: You’re naturally a right-handed hitter. How have you taken to hitting from the left side?
Meyer: I think it’s OK. I’m still getting comfortable, but I think I can do it.

BB: How do you describe yourself as a player?
Meyer. As somebody who plays defense. On the field, I have a good leadership role.

BB: Do you take as much pride in your offense as your defense? You seem to be the kind of guy who likes to run the hard 90.
Meyer: My parents always pushed me. They taught me I could go 0-for-4 but still go hard.

BB: You had a nice turnout for your BP after the game. Are you pleased with how this spring has taken shape? Do you feel confidant that you have helped yourself?
Meyer: I’m happy with it. It’s always been competitive. This summer was a great experience for me. I just wanted to come out and play hard this spring.

Read Jonathan Meyer Scouting report
Watch Jonathan Meyer Scouting video
Watch Bryan Berglund vs. Jonathan Meyer video
Houston Astros Draft Jonathan Meyer

Categories: '09 Meet the Player
Tags: Jonathan Meyer, Jonathan Meyer Interview