Prospect Profile: Michael Garciaparra

Position: INF
Age:22
Bats: R
LOW A STATS

AB	OBP	SLG	AVG
336	.387	.414	.298
2B	3B	HR	RBI
15	3	6	33
K	BB	SB	CS
64	35	10	8

Remember when the Mariners picked this guy in the first round, back when they were still perennial playoff contenders? It is disappointing that Garciaparra is only in high A at this point in his career but he did have a solid season that should propel him into AA in 2006. Garciaparra’s numbers are not incredible, but they provide reasons for hope. A high on-base percentage and good strikeout to walk ratio generally predict success, and Garciaparra had both last year. He also showed a little power and a little speed too. If Garciaparra puts up numbers in AA similar to his 2005 high A statistics, he will likely make the majors in the next two to three years. However, whether Garciaparra can do that is highly questionable. This is a critical year for Michael Garciaparra and it is why he is worth keeping an eye on in 2006.