• Full name Jay Allen Bruce
  • Born 04/03/1987 in Beaumont, TX
  • Profile Ht.: 6'3" / Wt.: 230 / Bats: L / Throws: L
  • School West Brook
  • Debut 05/27/2008
  • Drafted in the 1st round (12th overall) by the Cincinnati Reds in 2005 (signed for $1,800,000).
    View Draft Report
    Coming into 2005, Bruce was regarded as a solid third-round prospect but the fifth-best member of a deep Texas high school outfield crop, behind Jordan Danks, Austin Jackson, Kyle Russell and Jarred Bogany. He since has shot past all of them and into the middle of the first round, and he could go as high as seventh overall to the Rockies. It's a rise reminiscent of Jeremy Hermida's in 2002, and Bruce has similar skills to those of the Marlins' top prospect. Scouts also compare Bruce to Larry Walker. Though he has average to plus tools across the board and enough athleticism to play center field, Bruce profiles better in right field. His swing can get a little long at times, but Bruce is a polished high school hitter. He centers the ball well and already understands the importance of using the entire field. He also has the strength and skill to eventually hit 30-plus homers annually in the majors. His average speed is probably his worst tool, but he plays quicker than his stopwatch readings on the bases and in the outfield. He has more than enough arm to handle the move to right field in pro ball. At one point, Bruce's signability was questionable because he committed to Tulane and chose Scott Boras as his adviser. Bruce since has dropped Boras in favor of Matt Sosnick and is expected to sign for slot money.

Top Rankings

Organization Prospect Rankings

Minor League Top Prospects

Top 100 Rankings

Best Tools List

  • Rated Best Batting Prospect in the International League in 2008
  • Rated Best Power Hitter in the Cincinnati Reds in 2008
  • Rated Best Hitter for Average in the Cincinnati Reds in 2008
  • Rated Best Power Prospect in the Florida State League in 2007
  • Rated Best Batting Prospect in the Florida State League in 2007
  • Rated Best Hitter for Average in the Cincinnati Reds in 2007
  • Rated Best Power Prospect in the Midwest League in 2006
  • Rated Best Batting Prospect in the Midwest League in 2006
  • Rated Best Outfield Arm in the Cincinnati Reds in 2006
  • Rated Best Power Hitter in the Cincinnati Reds in 2006
  • Rated Best Hitter for Average in the Cincinnati Reds in 2006

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