Alex Sanchez

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Tampa Bay Rays #24 prospect in 2001
  Sanchez escaped Cuba on a raft and spent 16 months in a refugee camp, then attended junior college in Miami before getting drafted by the Devil Rays. He continued to display his outstanding speed last year by leading the International League in stolen bases despite spending part of the season in Double-A. He was able to accomplish that feat thanks to his improved ability to get on base, though he still needs more work. After swinging from his heels during his early days in the minors despite possessing minimal power, Sanchez has discovered that line drives, ground balls and bunts comprise his road to success. The confident outfielder has become more mature over the past two years and is more open to instruction as he develops a better understanding of the English language. He needs to continue to make sure he hits on top of the ball at the plate, and he must develop better command of the strike zone. He also can improve his routes to fly balls instead of relying on his legs to overcome any mental lapses. He faces a logjam in the Tampa Bay outfield, but has natural ability and could be a factor at the major league level as soon as this year.
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  Ranked Tampa Bay Rays #3 prospect in 1999
  Background: Sanchez has been with the Devil Rays for three seasons, long enough to evolve from a raw and immature speedster only months removed from a Cuban refugee camp into an accomplished minor league player. His 158 stolen bases the past two years led professional baseball. Strengths: Speed is obviously Sanchez's game but he has gradually added defensive skills and a sounder approach at the plate to his overall game. His batting average reflects an understanding of his speed and his limitations, and Tampa Bay officials believe he won't fall into the home run trap that many young players are prone to. Weaknesses: Most of the Devil Rays focus with Sanchez is on strengthening his fundamentals and consistency. His early career problems with organizational structure are largely gone as he has adapted to the U.S. lifestyle. The Future: The Devil Rays have an excess of similar outfielders at the upper levels but none has as high a ceiling as Sanchez. That will give the Devil Rays the luxury of easing Sanchez through Double-A and Triple-A on a relaxed timetable.