Jason Michaels

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Philadelphia Phillies #27 prospect in 2002
  Michaels has enjoyed a steady climb through the system. He hit a career-low .261 in 2001, though he did bat .313 against lefthanders and overall blasted a career-best 17 home runs in his first year at Triple-A. Michaels followed up by hitting .300-4-21 in the Arizona Fall League. He offers fringe-to-solid average tools across the board and can play all three outfield positions. The Phillies thought of moving him to third base to add versatility was scrapped in spring training, however. Michaels played 104 games in the outfield for Scranton without making an error. His strike-zone judgment has worsened with each promotion. He projects more as a fourth outfielder than as a regular in the big leagues. Philadelphia manager Larry Bowa likes his competitive streak, and he'll compete for a reserve job this spring.
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  Ranked Philadelphia Phillies #24 prospect in 2001
  Michaels was drafted in the 15th round by the Cardinals in 1997, after hitting .411 with 32 doubles and 15 home runs as a junior in the shadows of Pat Burrell at Miami. Unsatisfied with his draft position, Michaels returned for a senior season and batted .378 with 19 home runs to cap off a standout collegiate career. In the process he improved his draft status, as the Phillies scooped him up three rounds after taking Burrell with the first overall choice in 1998. Michaels' tools are solid across the board. He can play all three outfield positions, though he's best suited for a corner. Until last year, he exhibited a professional understanding of pitch selection. Michaels hits the ball hard and can drive pitches the other way into the gaps. He has proven he can hit, though his lack of power may preclude him from earning a regular role in the majors. Seemingly destined to be a fourth outfielder or a platoon player, he'll play everyday in Triple-A this year.