A Look Back at the Royals Top 31 Prospects: #25 Jack Lopez

The Kansas City Royals signed high school shortstop Jack Lopez for second round money (to keep him from going to Miami), though he was selected in the 16th round of the 2011 Draft. Lopez was ranked 25th in Baseball America‘s top 31 prospects heading into the 2012 season. He draws comparisons to fellow infielder Christian Colon, who was the Royals first selection in the 2010 Draft.

Jack Lopez with the Kane County Cougars during the 2012 season. Craig Wieczorkiewicz/Midwest League Traveler

The guys of BA liked his skill set both at the plate and at shortstop. They also felt that power would come once his body filled out.

Lopez began the season, well three games, with Idaho Falls (short-season rookie ball). He then made the big jump up to Low-A Kane County and hit just .222.  The power didn’t come in 2012, as he did not hit a homerun and only hit nine doubles. He also struck out 44 times in 261 at-bats.

On defense for the Cougars, he committed 16 errors in 292 chances (64 games).

You have to remember, Lopez is just 19 years old and was one of the younger players in the Midwest League (if not the youngest). He is the son of a coach (his dad is the bullpen coach for the Cincinnati Reds), so he has been around the game since he was little. This usually means an easier adjustment to pro ball.

Check out the following video of Lopez during instructional league in 2011 (after being drafted) taken by kcscoliny:

Lopez is yet another Royal participating in Instructional League in Surprise, Arizona. I have yet to see Lopez play in person, but I expect that he will begin his 2013 season back in Low-A with the Royals new affiliate in Lexington.