Wladimir Sutil

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Houston Astros #29 prospect in 2006
  Sutil has batted .312 in his two seasons in the United States, showing a contact-oriented swing and a willingness to use all fields. There's some question as to how he'll fare at more advanced levels, however. Listed at 5-foot-10 and 155 pounds, he has little strength. Better pitchers may be able to just blow him away with good fastballs, so he's going to have to get stronger. If Sutil can adapt and get on base enough, he can be a useful player. He has slightly above-average speed and doesn't try to do too much at the plate. He's a good defender who has the range and arm to play shortstop, and he slid over to second base when he teamed with Tommy Manzella last summer. Sutil was steady at both positions, committing just five errors in 58 games. He positions himself well and has good instincts. The next logical step for him is low Class A, which could mean playing second base alongside Manzella again. If Sutil can fend for himself at the plate, he could have a big league future as a utilityman.
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  Ranked Houston Astros #30 prospect in 2005
  In his U.S. debut last summer, Sutil made an impression with his speed and defense. A plus runner, he led the Appalachian League in steals (but also in times caught stealing, with eight). For a teenager, he displayed tremendous poise, body control, and footwork. He always seems to be in perfect position to make a throw, enhancing his slightly above-average arm. Wiry and undersized, Sutil knows he has to play the little man's game at the plate. He can reach the gaps on occasion but has focused on making contact and reaching base. His bat ultimately may hold him back, but he held his own last year. The Astros are interested in seeing what he can do in low Class A this year.