The Mets VP of Scouting and Development spoke very highly of top outfield prospect Cesar Puello this week. While assessing the young slugger’s season, Paul DePodesta said watching him “was very exciting.”
“Puello’s always been a guy who’s had as many tools as anyone, a true five-tool talent…He hits for average, hits for power, plays defense, runs, throws. He missed the last 50 games because of his connection to BioGenesis, but when he was on the field, he was a dynamic player.”
Despite missing the final month of the season, Puello still led the organization and Eastern League in a half dozen offensive categories. The 22-year-old batted .326/.403/.527 with 21 doubles, 16 home runs, 63 runs, and 73 RBI in 331 at-bats. In addition to his power, Puello flashed his speed and stole 24 bases.
“Given what he did in Double-A, he’s prepared to make the jump. He’s playing Winter Ball right now, so he’s making up for lost at-bats. We anticipate him being ready for Triple-A. He can be dangerous in Vegas.”
Puello is on the 40 man roster so we’ll get a closer look at him this Spring. A good performance in St. Lucie could leave a good impression with the team and set him up for a mid-season promotion if his success continues in Las Vegas.
I expect Puello to be an above average hitter in the majors with 25 home run power and lots of doubles. His batting average will range around .275 to .290 on the high side. he should be good for 15 stolen bases and overall he could become a consistent two win player and even higher during his peak seasons.
