Jason Heyward will win the 2010 NL ROY Award.
Scouts and players keep saying that the bat makes a different sound when Jason Heyward connects. I heard it live, and I concur.
If you are in a keeper league, there should be no hesitation. Draft him as early as you drafted Evan Longoria back in 2008. Yes, Matt Wieters hasn’t exactly panned out. And the same goes for Jay Bruce. But how’s Longoria doing? How about Ryan Braun? Not all hyped prospects fail. First off, Wieters is a catcher. When a catcher comes to the majors, his primary focus is to learn the pitching staff and opposing batters. Offense is considered a bonus. Bruce has disappointed too, but he shouldn’t be avoided — he can hit. Heyward will hit too, and he’ll even steal you 15-plus bases this year.
So far, the 2009 Minor League Player of the Year has hit third in front of Brian McCann, second in front of Chipper Jones, and fifth behind Troy Glaus. Bobby Cox recognizes the maturity and excellent patience at the plate. Cox has no reason to start him out at the bottom of the order. He’s ready to go now. Also note that he has started all three games for the Braves. Cox wants him to get as many ABs as possible. Make no mistake about it — he’s going to be Atlanta’s starting right-fielder on opening day. Even Chipper Jones echoes that sentiment.
While he probably won’t be hitting right next to Chipper or McCann come April, he won’t be buried down at number eight in the lineup either. Draft this guy now, and get ready to enjoy a .280 average with 20 homers and 75 RBI. The comparisons to Griffey Jr. and AROD have already been made. Let’s see if he can live up to those lofty expectations. I have little doubt that he becomes a star as soon as 2010.
