Josue Calzado Stats & Scouting Report

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Calzado, who signed for $110,000 in 2003, needed three years to get out of the Rookie-level Dominican Summer League. When he finally did, he was a different physical specimen from the 6-foot-1, 160-pounder they signed, having grown an inch and added 30 pounds. With five-tool potential, Calzado is still raw and a long way off from helping in New York, even after a successful cup of coffee in low Class A. Calzado has bat speed and raw power. He has plus speed but lacks the instincts and savvy to make the most of it on the bases and in center field. He often has to use his quickness to run down balls that he didn't read well off the bat. Calzado has a decent concept of the strike zone and an excellent work ethic. He's expected to return to Charleston, though New York's depth in outfielders and his lack of polish may dictate he opens in extended spring training before going to Staten Island.

The Yankees signed Calzado as a 17-year-old out of the Dominican Republic for $110,000 three years ago. He has had a growth spurt, and though he remains extremely raw he also flashes five-tool potential. "His tools may never translate, but if they did he would be a major league all-star," a scout said. "He can throw with anyone, and the ball comes off the bat like Miguel Tejada. Tools-wise, he's a freak of nature." Calzado's best tool is his arm, which plays in right field, and he manned center this summer because his plus speed allows him to cover plenty of ground. His reads and routes in the outfield are rudimentary at best, however, as is his approach at the plate. Calzado struggles to get his front foot down quickly enough, disrupting his timing. He made adjustments during the season, and was lacing line drives to all fields by the time he was promoted to low Class A in mid-August. He has power potential, though he'll have to improve his pitch recognition and hone his approach to reach it.