Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports
8. Chase Vallot
Certain types of prospects are truly rare, and a power hitting catcher is one of those commodities that is difficult to find. However, that is exactly what the Kansas City Royals have in Chase Vallot, the young catcher they selected 40th overall in the 2014 MLB Amateur Draft.
Despite being the youngest regular player in both leagues he has played in, Vallot has made an impact with his ability to hit the ball for long distances. Last season, despite playing in the South Atlantic League at only 18 years old, Vallot finished tied for twelfth with 13 home runs. However, he struggled overall at the plate, producing a .219/.331/.427 batting line.
However, that production has the potential to improve. Vallot displayed a solid batting eye, drawing 41 walks in 333 plate appearances, leading to hope that he will see his batting line increase as he continues to mature as a player. Defensively, Vallot is considered to have an excellent arm, despite his 19% caught stealing rate last season.
It is going to take some time for Chase Vallot to develop for the Kansas City Royals. Yet, if he progresses as hoped, Vallot could end up being a top prospect for the Royals going forward.
Next: He is proving he belongs