Justin Christian

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked New York Yankees #21 prospect in 2006
  One of the Yankees' most unlikely prospects, Christian is also one of the system's better hitters. His bat has found a home with New York, and the much-traveled Christian could use a home. He played at Skyline (Calif.) Junior College, Auburn and Southeast Missouri State in college, and signed with River City of the independent Frontier League when he wasn't drafted following his junior season in 2003. He hit .374 with 45 steals in parts of two seasons with River City, prompting the Yankees to sign him to fill a roster spot at short-season Staten Island in 2004. He has proven to be more than roster filler, however. Christian can hit with a short, consistent stroke that produces average power. He has excellent plate discipline and is a 6.5-second runner over 60 yards. His speed and excellent instincts helped him lead Yankees farmhands with 55 steals in just 62 attempts in 2005. The total package makes him potentially an impact top-of-the-order hitter. Christian's biggest shortcoming is defense. His below-average arm and modest infield actions limit him to second base, where he's average at best. He earned an invitation to the organization's fall minicamp, where he worked on playing outfield. Christian could become a super utility player and figures to play every day at second base or in left or center field in Double-A this year.