Paul Konerko
| AB | 8393 |
|---|---|
| AVG | .279 |
| OBP | .354 |
| SLG | .486 |
| HR | 439 |
- Full name Paul Henry Konerko
- Born 03/05/1976 in Providence, RI
- Profile Ht.: 6'2" / Wt.: 220 / Bats: R / Throws: R
- School Chaparral
- Debut 09/08/1997
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Drafted in the 1st round (13th overall) by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1994 (signed for $830,000).
View Draft Report
Konerko, like fellow teammate 3B Antone Williamson, has an exceptional bat with good instincts for the game, but may have to switch to first base because his receiving skills are suspect. He has a strong arm, but a slow lower body impedes his ability to get rid of the ball quickly. His biggest drawback is lack of speed.
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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Background: In 1997, Konerko hit .323-37-127 at Triple-A Albuquerque and was named Baseball America's Minor League Player of the Year. In 1996 as a 20-year-old, he hit 31 home runs at Double-A San Antonio in one of the more difficult home run parks in the minors. Yes, he can hit. Konerko made his major league debut at 21, more than three years earlier than the obvious player to compare him to, Mike Piazza. Strengths: There doesn't appear to be much Konerko can't do with the bat. He hits for power and average, takes a high number of walks and rarely strikes out for a power hitter. His makeup and work ethic are unsurpassed by any player. Weaknesses: Drafted as a catcher, Konerko has slow feet and a hip condition that will limit his range and speed. He has played first base and third base the past two years and is considered adequate at both. He has an above-average arm and good hands, both legacies from his catching background. The Future: Konerko's status in relation to Eric Karros and Todd Zeile remains fluid. The Dodgers see it as a no-lose situation. Their plan is to be patient and see how things play out between now and Opening Day.
