Derek Wathan

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Miami Marlins #30 prospect in 2002
  Wathan's makeup, instincts and leadership skills are unquestioned. Like his father, former Royals player and manager John Wathan, Derek is a take-charge type who commands the respect of teammates and opponents alike. It's the rest of his game that's open to debate. While some scouts think he could play defensively in the majors now, others say his agility and range are a little short. His arm is just average, but he compensates with a quick release. His lack of offense is troubling. He seemed to improve last year after his older brother Dusty, a catcher, was released off the Portland roster. Wathan's bat tends to drag through the zone and he doesn't have much pop. A switch-hitter, he had made strides from the left side in 2000 but was largely unimpressive last year. He figures to open 2002 in Calgary.
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  Ranked Miami Marlins #25 prospect in 2001
  All the intangibles are there for Wathan. Like his father, former Royals catcher and manager John, and older brother, Mariners catching prospect Dusty, Derek is a take-charge type who commands the respect of teammates and opponents alike. He doesn't have the strongest arm, but he compensates with a quick release and always seems to make the routine to mildly challenging play. His instincts are among the best in the organization and at least one club official considers him the fiercest competitor in the system. A switch-hitter, he has greatly improved his stroke from the left side. He has learned to use his legs better, relax his hands and generate more bat speed. For the first time in three pro seasons he began to show gap power in 2000. If he hits, he'll play. Wathan was the only position prospect the Marlins sent to the Arizona Fall League. He held his own at the plate but didn't distinguish himself, which was understandable for a player who spent the bulk of the year in the Florida State League. He'll start 2001 in Double-A after struggling there last season.