Scouting Report: Ryan Wheeler, 1B, LMU (2009 Draft)
By John Klima
May 19, 2009
(photo: Baseball Beginnings)
Ryan Wheeler, 1B
Loyola Marymount University
Bats: Left
Throws: Right
Games seen: 2; Innings: 18 (Also saw as HS player)
PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Tall, square shouldered, full chest, long legs. Good athlete for big man. Strong, large hands and forearms. Mature features.
STRENGTHS: Inside-out swing with power to LCF, CF and RF. Improving, “handsy,” with plate discipline and advanced attack plan for amateur hitter. Natural gap hitter to LCF, makes contact, covers strike zone, balanced, keeps head down, bat stays in hitting zone for a long time, two-handed uppercut finish, coming fast. Good footwork around the bag; will make plays defensively. Probably a better defender than he gets credit for.
WEAKNESSES: Sometimes slips out of CF approach, has shown aptitude for self-correction. Could be considered too selective of a hitter for some. Below-average runner. Will need to watch body.
SUMMARY: Fast hands and growing strength, just needs experience and at-bats. LHH 1B who can drive ball for avg. and power; can play 1B or LF. Good work ethic and aptitude. Should become everyday corner player for a contender. Good Luck ’09 and beyond.
GRADES:
Hit 40/60
Power 40/60
Run 40/45
Arm 50/50
Field 45/55
Overall Future Potential: 55
Read Ryan Wheeler Q&A
Watch Ryan Wheeler Scouting Video
Read about Ryan Wheeler in the Cape Cod League
Ryan Wheeler Drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks
Catching up with Ryan Wheeler
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