October 4, 2011 at 2:36 PM
A look at Sox prospects playing Fall ball
To piggyback on Gordon Edes’ earlier post on the Arizona Fall League, which opens today, here is a breakdown of the prospects Boston is sending to the AFL to play for Scottsdale this fall:
• 3B Will Middlebrooks (23): Largely considered the top prospect in the organization at this point, Middlebrooks profiles as an above-average long-term regular at third base, with some All-Star potential. In 2011, the former fifth-round pick showcased a plus bat, plus power, decent speed, a plus arm and plus defense in Double-A Portland. However, he struggled after a late-season promotion to Triple-A Pawtucket, which was unsurprising given that he needs to continue to refine his approach against advanced pitching. He’ll get the opportunity to do just that in Arizona for the next six weeks. Look for Middlebrooks to start the 2012 season in Pawtucket, with a call-up to Boston in September, or possibly earlier if an injury situation arises.
Please check out the full column at ESPN Boston.