Background: Gonzalez is the latest in a long line of Venezuelan shortstops. Less flashy than Omar Vizquel but with more pop than Ozzie Guillen, Gonzalez will get his first shot at the big leagues this season. He was named top prospect in the International League last year despite ranking as the IL's youngest position player. Strengths: Professional maturity. Gonzalez has played winter ball in his home country since he was 17. His defense is Gold Glove-caliber. He has plus feet, hands, range, instincts and release, though he lacks a cannon arm. He has good gap power and knows how to make adjustments between at-bats. Weaknesses: Like his namesake with the Blue Jays, Gonzalez can become enamored of his power and get himself out by overswinging. His speed is average and contributes to a conservative baserunning style. The Future: The Marlins wouldn't have dealt Edgar Renteria to the Cardinals unless they felt Gonzalez was ready. He was enjoying a strong winter season and could make Marlins fans forget their World Series hero in due time.
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Rated Best Defensive SS in the American League in 2006
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