Jose Garcia

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked New York Yankees #20 prospect in 2004
  Garcia emerged from a group of inexperienced young starters in Battle Creek last year. He exceeded expectations and was successful after a late-season promotion to high Class A. While he can't match the arm strength of his former Battle Creek rotation mates, Garcia is far more advanced in terms of his approach to pitching. His fastball sits at 90 mph with arm-side life and good sink, and he has the makings of a plus changeup. His slider projects as major league average, while his curveball is a touch below. He has solid-average command of his four pitches, allowing him to locate to both sides of the plate. Garcia's arm works well and his delivery is fine, though he could stand to limit his head jerk at release. His velocity shouldn't increase much and he profiles as a No. 4 starter. He'll return to Tampa as the Opening Day starter in 2004.
• 
  Ranked Los Angeles Dodgers #29 prospect in 2002
  Garcia turned 21 late in the 2001 season, which coincided with several Pioneer League managers noting how much the potential five-tool outfielder matured physically over the course of the summer. He has added close to 50 pounds of muscle since signing in 1996, and he's starting to incorporate the added strength into his game. He reached career highs in virtually every category last season and led Great Falls in hits, doubles, home runs and RBIs. Several Pioneer League skippers compared him to Raul Mondesi. Garcia impresses scouts with his loose body, obvious athleticism and budding power. He's a decent defender with good speed and enough arm to play right field. His powerful wrists enable him to whip the bat through the strike zone, resulting in hard-hit line drives to all fields. Garcia is somewhat of a late bloomer, but the Dodgers believe he's ready to start making up for lost time. His next stop will be low Class A.