Ronnie Belliard
| AB | 5045 |
|---|---|
| AVG | .273 |
| OBP | .338 |
| SLG | .415 |
| HR | 114 |
- Full name Ronald Belliard
- Born 04/07/1975 in Bronx, NY
- Profile Ht.: 5'9" / Wt.: 210 / Bats: R / Throws: R
- School Miami Central
- Debut 09/12/1998
- Drafted in the 8th round (207th overall) by the Milwaukee Brewers in 1994.
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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Background: Long considered one of the top prospects in the organization, Belliard elevated himself to top status with an across-the-board stellar season at Triple-A Louisville. The Brewers had some concern about Belliard after his lackluster showing in big league spring training, but Belliard quickly refocused and showed the intensity and aggressiveness expected on both offense and defense. He has nothing left to prove in the minors after two seasons in Triple-A. The Brewers wouldn't hesitate to start him in the majors on a regular basis if the situation arises. Strengths: Belliard has great instincts around the bag, something you can't teach. He has soft, quick hands and a strong arm, and isn't afraid to try to make a difficult play. Not only is he lightning quick when turning the double play, Belliard can be acrobatic at times. At the plate, the once undisciplined hitter has learned to work pitchers while still showing impressive pop for a little guy. Belliard runs well and shows natural instincts on the bases. The whole package makes him an attractive leadoff candidate. Weaknesses: Though improved greatly in patience at the plate, Belliard still lapses into a long swing at times, making him vulnerable to breaking balls away. He doesn't have the perfect baseball body, so conditioning is important. Belliard has played some third base in winter ball and has filled in at shortstop there, but is considered basically a one-position player. That position is the one played by the Brewers' lone 1998 all-star, Fernando Vina. The Future: Belliard's future with the Brewers is tied to the fate of the incumbent Vina. Because of the depth provided by Belliard and utility player Mark Loretta, the Brewers were using Vina as trade bait in search of pitching help. Depending on that situation, Belliard could either be the Brewers' starting second baseman, a reserve on the 25-man roster or back in Triple-A.
