Taking the Next Step: Cheslor Cuthbert

When Dayton Moore pulled the trigger on the Wil Myers/James Shields trade, he did so on the understanding that the organization’s minor leagues still had depth of talent.

Cheslor Cuthbert via Jen Nevius

Today, one of those pieces was pushed up the ladder another level. Cheslor Cuthbert, all of 20 years old, will be promoted to Northwest Arkansas and take on Double A pitching, according to Bob Dutton. Cuthbert was a 16-year-old signee in 2009 out of Nicaragua.

Last year, he had some struggles in Low A at the end of the 2011 that continued into 2012 with High A Wilmington, but he’s rebounded in 2013 by showing better plate discipline (he’s cut his strikeout rate while increasing his walk rate). If he makes a quick adjustment in Double A, he should see some spike in power numbers as well, after leaving the cavernous Frawley Stadium in Wilmington for the cozy confines of Arvest Ballpark in Springdale. He has 25 extra base hits in 60 games, but most of them are doubles.

Cuthbert has always played above his age, and the adjustment period can be difficult, especially for international players. He seems to have made those adjustments and can make some strides in a tougher league. Jason Parks of Baseball Prospectus suggests he could have above average power and be an average defender at third and there could be some room to grow from there as well.