Shawn Pleffner

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Washington Nationals #31 prospect in 2013
  Pleffner, who started his college career at Tallahassee (Fla.) CC, earned himself a shot in pro ball with a solid 2011 season at Division II power Tampa. A sports hernia delayed his pro debut until 2012, and the Nationals loved what they saw from him at short-season Auburn. Pleffner stands out for his simple, balanced approach at the plate and his innate feel for the barrel. He controls the strike zone and does a good job waiting for something he can drive to the opposite-field gap, though a bit more aggressiveness could do him some good. He generates good bat speed, and his 6-foot-5 frame could produce average or better power as he learns to generate more leverage and incorporate his lower half more effectively. Drafted as an outfielder, Pleffner has moved to first base with the Nationals. His hands work well at the position, and he's still learning the footwork. He is a below-average runner but not a baseclogger, and he has a strong arm for a first baseman. Pleffner will advance to low Class A Hagerstown to start 2013, and he could be pushed to high A in the second half.