Javier Colina

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Colorado Rockies #26 prospect in 2003
  Since the Rockies signed Andres Galarraga on the eve of the 1992 expansion draft, they've had a presence in Venezuela. Finally, it's starting to show in their system. Outfielder Rene Reyes is their best position prospect, while Oscar Materano is their top infield defender. Another Venezuelan to watch is Colina, who won the batting title in an abbreviated winter season in his native country's league with a .355 average. He has primarily played second base in the minors but spent the winter at third base. He can drive the ball but has yet to show the power teams look for at the hot corner. When Colina is swinging the bat well he uses all fields, but he still gets into funks where he tries to pull everything. He needs to show better discipline at the plate. Colina is better at third base, where his hands and arm serve him well, than at second, where he lacks quick feet. He'll probably return to Triple-A in 2003, at least to start the season.
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  Ranked Colorado Rockies #21 prospect in 2002
  Colina rebounded from a dismal Double-A performance in 2000, getting back on track offensively while batting everywhere from first through sixth in high Class A last year. What perks the interest of scouts is watching him in batting practice, where he relaxes and gives a hint of what could be. Colina has the ability to have legitimate gap power and be an above-average defensive player. The problem so far has been what happens when the game starts. Colina doesn't let his ability take over. He tries to do too much and gets pullconscious when he should be using the entire field. He's ready to return to Double-A on a full-time basis, though he went just 1-for-24 with 10 strikeouts in seven games at Carolina in 2001.