Jody Gerut

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Cleveland Guardians #33 prospect in 2003
  In a deal that continues to look more one-sided in Cleveland's favor, the Indians added Josh Bard and Gerut in June 2001 for Jacob Cruz. The Rockies released Cruz five months later. Gerut missed the entire 2001 season following reconstructive knee surgery, but he wasted little time in re-establishing himself as a prospect last year. He can play any of the three outfield positions. He gets good reads and jumps, understands hitters and has good anticipation and knowledge of the game. His feel for outfield play makes up for his lack of speed, though he does know how to steal a base. It remains to be seen what kind of hitter Gerut will become, though he has shown good gap power. He can come off the bench and be productive, which might be his role in the big leagues. Though there have been no lingering effects from his knee injury, Gerut needs to continue to get stronger and improve on his explosiveness. He'll has an outside chance of winning a spot on the Indians' Opening Day roster, but more likely will begin the season in Triple-A.
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  Ranked Colorado Rockies #30 prospect in 2001
  In addition to getting Jeff Winchester with a 1998 sandwich pick after they lost free agent Walt Weiss, the Rockies also got a second-rounder from the Braves, which they spent on Gerut. He spent that summer holding out but since has moved up quickly. He can play all three outfield positions and projects as a fourth outfielder in the big leagues. Gerut doesn't have the speed needed for a center fielder at Coors Field, and so far hasn't shown the power expected from a corner outfielder. He is, however, a fundamentally sound player with a short, quick stroke. As he gets stronger he could surprise with power, learning to lift the line drives in the gaps. He'll spend 2001 in Triple-A.