Wes Helms

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Atlanta Braves #8 prospect in 2001
  Helms had one of the best all-around seasons of any hitter in the organization last year. Two different shoulder injuries limited him to 39 games in 1999, yet he bounced back and made improvements while posting career-highs in home runs and RBIs at Triple-A. For the first time, Helms displayed his above-average power without hurting his average. He loves the challenge of hitting with the game on the line and has a knack for producing the big hit. His defense at third base also showed a little improvement, though the Braves had the athletic Helms playing first base and the two corner outfield positions in Venezuela during winter ball. On the downside, his big swing continues to show holes. His hands are not soft on defense, and he tends to rush his throws despite possessing a plus arm. In short, he lacks overall consistency in his game. Perseverance appears to have paid off for Helms. The Braves are considering moving Chipper Jones to the outfield and giving Helms a shot at the hot corner. This spring is shaping up to be Helms' first real chance at making the 25-man roster.
• 
  Ranked Atlanta Braves #9 prospect in 1999
  Background: Richmond was a house of horrors for Helms in 1997. The nephew of former major leaguer Tommy Helms, he returned last year and showed no ill effects while putting together his most consistent season as a pro. Strengths: Helms has all the tools needed to be a prototype major league third baseman. He has a plus arm and his glove is as consistent as any in the National League. He is a consistent hitter who flirts with .300 and continues to add power as he matures. Weaknesses: Helms has as much raw power as anyone in the organization, but he needs to display it more with his numbers. He also must remain aggressive at the plate and stay focused in what he is trying to accomplish instead of worrying about having Chipper Jones blocking his path to the big leagues. The Future: Atlanta's needs do not include a corner infielder, which will send Helms back to Richmond for another season. First base may be a viable option once Andres Galarraga retires.

Top 100 Rankings

• Ranked Baseball America's #86 prospect in 1997

• December, 1998 Scouting Report
  Background: Richmond was a house of horrors for Helms in 1997. The nephew of former major leaguer Tommy Helms, he returned last year and showed no ill effects while putting together his most consistent season as a pro. Strengths: Helms has all the tools needed to be a prototype major league third baseman. He has a plus arm and his glove is as consistent as any in the National League. He is a consistent hitter who flirts with .300 and continues to add power as he matures. Weaknesses: Helms has as much raw power as anyone in the organization, but he needs to display it more with his numbers. He also must remain aggressive at the plate and stay focused in what he is trying to accomplish instead of worrying about having Chipper Jones blocking his path to the big leagues. The Future: Atlanta's needs do not include a corner infielder, which will send Helms back to Richmond for another season. First base may be a viable option once Andres Galarraga retires.