Noochie Varner
| AB | 2827 |
|---|---|
| AVG | .3 |
| OBP | .357 |
| SLG | .433 |
| HR | 50 |
- Full name Gary Lee Varner
- Born 12/07/1980 in Cynthiana, KY
- Profile Ht.: 6'0" / Wt.: 210 / Bats: R / Throws: R
- School St Catharine College
- Drafted in the 10th round (303rd overall) by the Cincinnati Reds in 2000.
Top Rankings
Organization Prospect Rankings
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Primarily known by his nickname "Noochie," Varner has done more than add to the Reds' collection of players with odd monikers. He blossomed at the plate in 2001, leading the Rookie-level Pioneer League in hits and finishing fourth in the batting race. A supremely confident hitter, he uses the entire field. He may have too much faith in himself, because there's some thought he might resist making adjustments at the upper levels. He also strikes out too much. Varner's biggest flaws come with his glove. He played his way off third base to left field last season, and he still needs to get better defensively. He's ticketed for low Class A to start 2002, but he could earn a midseason promotion if he continues his torrid hitting.
Minor League Top Prospects
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Varner was one of the purest hitters in the Pioneer League this season. He topped the league in hits and tied for third in batting average. Varner doesn't have the size most scouts like to see in a corner outfielder, and he also is learning to play left field after toiling primarily at third base during his amateur career. Nevertheless, he has above-average running ability and a plus arm for left field. The ball jumps off his bat and he makes consistent contact. Varner also has the natural ability to steal some bases once he becomes more aggressive on the basepaths. "When you watch him everyday, you see his all-around game really coming together at a rapid rate," Burleson said. "He's a guy who down the line could be an impact player."
