Padres Young Prospect Jeisson Rosario is the Real Deal
The San Diego Padres have an excellent young core of minor league players.
For the first time in the history of the team, the farm system is deep, and especially so in terms of international talent. With over 70 million dollars spent (and counting) since the period opened on July 2, the Padres have gone the extra mile in terms of acquiring young talent.
Luis Almanzar, Adrian Morejon, Jorge Ona, Gabriel Arias, and Tirso Ornelas dominate the headlines in terms of the players signed, but there is a toolsy outfielder who could be the best of the bunch. It would be wise to get to know his name now, as he looks to be the real deal.
Prospect Jeisson Rosario, at the age of 17, has made huge strides since signing with the team out of the Dominican Republic in June. In only a couple of months, scouts have begun to take notice of this youngster’s advanced baseball skills. He has yet to start his professional career, but did have a handful of at bats this fall at instructionals in Arizona.
Most reports indicate that he is getting better, and the early feeling is that he should be an everyday player at the highest level one day. Those are early reports, and a lot has to go right with his development, but he has all the intangibles you look for in a young player.
Rosario is a left-handed hitter, and is described as patient at the plate. He has a slight build currently, but at 17, you cannot expect too much in terms of muscle and size. He squares up the ball nicely, and most scouts agree that he will have gap power at the very least one day. He could, with some hard work and weight training, be a power threat as he grows into his body and begins to drive the ball.
Take a look at this video where he displays his patience at the plate, falling behind quickly in the count. However, in the end, he was able to square the ball and get a hit after a quality at bat. Showing that type of plate discipline and reaction at his age is phenomenal. He should be vaulting up the prospect list this summer, provided he is able to get some professional at bats. It remains to be seen if the teenager will stay in the Dominican Republic or report to Tri-City in June, possibly.
The San Diego Padres are certainly pleased with his growth as a player. Defensively, Rosario could possibly play center field as he has a cannon for an arm. His speed is average at this point, so it remains to be seen if he has the ability to cover the ground necessary to be a center fielder at the professional level. If he is forced to play a corner outfield spot, he has the arm and hit tool to project in right field.
Jeisson Rosario is a potential starter in the league, and he could develop into something special with a little more seasoning. There is a high ceiling here with this young man. At the same time, his floor is also pretty high, as he should, at the very least, taste the major leagues one day. His swing, work ethic, and all around skill can not be ignored. Rosario is a name to remember, as his quick hands and ability to use the whole field will help him in every level he competes. At 17, it may take time for him to reach Petco, but his growth is going to be fun to watch. Just another reason to be thankful for the current Padres’ regime and the fact they are committed to success.
James was born and raised in America’s Finest City. He is a passionate baseball fan with even more passion towards his hometown Padres. Editor-In-Chief of EastVillageTimes.com. Always striving to bring you the highest quality in San Diego Sports News. Original content, with original ideas, that’s our motto. Enjoy.