Eugenio Velez

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked San Francisco Giants #7 prospect in 2008
  Velez was a utilityman in the Blue Jays system, but he has been an electric difference-maker since the Giants plucked him in the Triple-A phase of the 2005 Rule 5 draft. He was the South Atlantic League MVP in 2006, though he was 24 in low Class A. For an encore, he led the Double-A Eastern League with 49 steals, reached the majors and hit .303 with 15 swipes in 17 Arizona Fall League games. It's fitting that Velez' first big league hit was a triple because he flies around the bases with well above-average speed. He has some gap power, especially as a lefthanded hitter. His best defensive tool is his plus arm strength. A wrist sprain cost Velez the first month of the season. San Francisco moved him to the outfield to get him back on the field quicker. The one-time shortstop would fit best as a second baseman, but he tends to field balls too upright, which hardens up his hands. He lacks finesse on the infield. Offensively, his biggest need is patience. The Giants see Velez as a high-energy utility player. His value would increase as a dependable infielder. San Francisco likely will field a speed-oriented lineup in 2008, enhancing his chances of making the team.