Fat Strat wrote:
Your worried about K/BB ratio for an age 19 -- and barely that -- in an advanced league with a small sample size. His ratio in A ball before the promotion is perfectly fine for his age and skillset.
IMO, his promotions tell you a lot about what he is as a player. Last year, he was promoted out of rookie league for 25 games in A ball. His BB rate promptly dropped, K rate climbed, but his power remained high relative to his BA (ISO). Starting at A ball the next season, he succeeded. Earned a promotion to A+ and his K rate climbed, BB rate dropped, but power remained pretty consistent. Absolutely no reason for worry unless you were convinced he was going to be Bryce Harper and treat the minor leagues like his personal playground. Power is real regardless of the competition, which is an amazing feat. BB rate looks real when he's not completely over his head. K's are part of his game. He's a serious prospect.
I wanted the walk rate closer to 12% (for 2019 total in A/A+ ball) if he's going to K 29-30%. Wanted him closer to Ramos and Kelenic's K/BB ratio at the same level. And get the promotion they got as well.
I don't disagree with your post otherwise. He's going to be a starter and a good player. And he's a serious prospect. No doubt.
My favorite Cardinal coming up in a long time.