Drafted in the 4th round (121st overall) by the Boston Red Sox in 1996.
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The Rockies scour the waiver wire, always on the lookout for upper level minor leaguers who can add depth to their system. That's how they found Barnes last September, claiming him from the Twins, who had gotten him from the Red Sox in a 1998 trade. He missed the first seven weeks of 2001 with torn cartilage in his left knee but is fully healthy now. Barnes led the minors with a .365 batting average in 2000 and has gap power. He makes consistent contact, draws a few walks and has enough speed to be a threat to steal bases. Defensively, he has solid instincts that allow him to play all three outfield positions, as well as an accurate arm. Though Barnes projects more as an extra outfielder than as a starter, he can be useful in that role. He'll get a look in big league camp but seems destined for a third tour of duty in Triple-A.
The leading hitter in the minor leagues in 2000, Barnes wasn't even supposed to start at Triple-A Salt Lake. He was sent to the Buzz as a fourth outfielder but hit his way into the lineup. Barnes began last year with a lifetime .280 minor league average in 1,494 at-bats and had topped .300 just once. With an accurate, major league average arm and good defensive instincts, he has the ability to play all three outfield positions. Barnes could use more aggressiveness on the bases, but he should get plenty of practice. He sprays line drives everywhere, has gap power and walks as much as he strikes out. He joined the organization in in the same trade that brought Matt Kinney from the Red Sox. Barnes will have a shot at making the big league club as a fourth or fifth outfielder--a scenario that worked for him last year.
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