Ehire Adrianza
Position: SS
Opening Day Age: 21
John Sickels' Grade: C+
Fangraphs Estimated Peak WAR: 3.5
ZiPS Projection: .232/.295/.311
Ehire Adrianza is an excellent defensive shortstop. As Marc Hulet of Fangraphs says, "In the field, he displays outstanding range, excellent hands, and a solid arm." How he will perform offensively, however,
remains to be seen. While he displays excellent plate discipline -- a 9.3% BB rate over the past two seasons -- he lacks power. He does have good speed though, having stolen 33 bases in high-A last season. Ultimately, his upside appears to be as an Elvis Andrus-type player: outstanding fielder, good speed (although he certainly won't steal as much as Andrus), weak power, good plate discipline.
The ultimate consensus with Adrianza is great defense, questionable offense...as Hulet states, "At worst, he should develop into a solid utility player or a Cesar Izturis-type middle infielder."
John Sickels: "Love the glove, but not sure he'll hit enough to get beyond a utility spot."
I like what Adrianza brings to the system. It'd be nice to have his speed, and if he can hit like a league average shortstop in addition to playing excellent defense, he could be quite valuable.
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