Shaun Cumberland

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Tampa Bay Rays #29 prospect in 2007
  The Rays continue to believe that Cumberland is on the verge of breaking out and becoming a blue-chip outfield prospect. After putting together a strong second half in low Class A the previous year, he ranked fourth in the organization in RBIs despite hitting .258 in 2006. Cumberland has all the tools to achieve Tampa Bay's projections. He shows budding power from the left side as well as above-average speed and an arm strong enough to man right field at higher levels. He's a good defender capable of handling any of the three outfield spots. He's also an aggressive and smart baserunner who succeeded on 29 of his 38 steal attempts and hit into just four double plays last year. The problem for Cumberland is that he gives away too many at-bats by chasing too many pitches. The Rays believe he can be a .300 hitter once he channels his competitiveness in the right direction. He'll try to make the necessary adjustments this season in Double-A.
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  Ranked Tampa Bay Rays #17 prospect in 2006
  Cumberland's strong second half in 2005--he had eight homers and 45 RBIs in the last two months--left the Devil Rays believing he has the overall package to become a starting right fielder at the major league level. Scouts drool over his picture-perfect swing from the left side of the plate. He has quick wrists and sprays line drives to all fields, though he'll need to reduce his strikeouts. Tampa Bay thinks he'll develop above-average power as his body gains strength. Cumberland runs the bases well and his good speed also gives him good range in right field. He also has the arm strength for the position as well. Most important, Cumberland displayed more maturity last year. Competitive almost to a fault, he still needs to channel his emotions in a more positive manner. The Rays believe he'll continue to improve in that regard with more experience. He'll play this season in high Class A.
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  Ranked Tampa Bay Rays #26 prospect in 2004
  A 10th-round pick last June, Cumberland was the best athlete in the Devil Rays' 2003 draft class. His physical tools were evident during his pro debut, as was the fact that his baseball skills are raw and unpolished. The Rays are confident that he'll continue to mature physically and develop into a hitter who can produce for average and power at higher levels. He lacks significant pop right now, but his wiry frame should be able to add strength. He lost weight during his first pro summer, so getting on a workout program is a must. While only an average runner, Cumberland is a fine corner outfielder with good instincts. He also has above-average arm speed and should be able to stay in right field. The Rays also love Cumberland's makeup and intangibles, which should help him realize his ceiling. He'll play this year in low Class A.