Ramon Nivar Stats & Scouting Report

AB	121
AVG	.223
OBP	.258
SLG	.264
HR	0

Full name Ramon A. Nivar
Born 02/22/1980 in San Cristobal, Dominican Republic
Profile Ht.: 5'10" / Wt.: 185 / Bats: R / Throws: R
Debut 07/30/2003

Top Rankings

Organization Prospect Rankings

Just as suddenly as he had a breakthrough season in 2003, shooting from Double-A to the majors after repeating high Class A the year before, Nivar's rapid rise screeched to a halt last season. After rising through the organization as a middle infielder, Nivar moved to the outfield in 2003 and for a time was thought to be the Rangers' answer in center field. But 2004 saw him fail to make improvements or adjustments to take advantage of his electric tools. He's the fastest runner in the organization, but he has never grasped the nuances of basestealing. Nor does he seem to grasp that improved plate discipline would make him a better tablesetter. Nivar has quickness in his bat, giving him surprising power for his size. But he lacks savvy and has been exposed as he tries to learn his way around center field. He too often follows spectacular plays with boneheaded ones. By late July he was back at second base. With Laynce Nix having established himself as the center fielder in Arlington, Nivar's best bet for playing time appears to be as a utilityman.
Formerly known as Ramon Martinez, Nivar took on his mother's maiden name. Unlike more than 30 other Rangers prospects, his age was unchanged. He switched positions at midseason last year, moving from second base to center field. Nivar grades as a top-of-the-scale runner, getting down the line in as fast as 3.9 seconds, and has garnered Rafael Furcal comparisons for his explosiveness. His speed prompted the move to center, and he displayed more than enough range to make up for his inexperience on routes. His arm strength is above-average. Nivar understands his role at the plate, and he can surprise pitchers with a little sock in his bat. He needs to develop his strikezone judgment and improve his bunting to become a complete leadoff hitter. Scouts love the energy Nivar brings, though he can get out of control at times. He hit .381 in the Arizona Fall League and has taken to center field so well that he could compete for the big league job in spring training. When he's ready, he'll push Laynce Nix to an outfield corner.

Minor League Top Prospects

Speaking of Nivar, he got on the prospect map last year while repeating high Class A, and he took off this season after his surname changed from Martinez to Nivar. He opened in Frisco and jumped to Triple-A before making his big league debut. He won a spot in the Futures Game as well as the TL batting title. Managers love Nivar's hustle and enthusiasm, not to mention his exciting tools. He really blossomed after moving from the middle infield to center field, where he needs polish but showed good instincts. While at least one manager wasn't sure he'll hit in the big leagues, most liked his approach and hand-eye coordination. He's a line-drive hitter who can go the other way, and he's a good bunter as well, accentuating his speed. "He plays with reckless abandon, and you'll see him trying to throw guys out at first from center field," Brundage said. "He's got a lot to learn, but he shows you greatness."