A.J. Pierzynski Stats & Scouting Report

Full name Anthony John Pierzynski
Born 12/30/1976 in Bridgehampton, NY
Profile Ht.: 6'3" / Wt.: 250 / Bats: L / Throws: R
School Dr Phillips
Debut 09/09/1998
Drafted in the 3rd round (71st overall) by the Minnesota Twins in 1994.

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Pierzynski has attracted late first-round attention because he plays a premium position well and hits from the left side. It doesn't hurt that he doesn't turn 18 until December, which would make him one of the youngest picks in the first five rounds.

Top Rankings

Pierzynski received a 33-game opportunity to see what he could do as a major league catcher, and he made the most of it. Some in the organization think he has the inside track to be Minnesota's Opening Day starter, thanks to his reliable lefthanded bat and decent defensive skills. Danny Ardoin, a 2000 acquisition from the Athletics system, plays the best defense among the top four catchers in the organization, but his offense lags behind Pierzynski's. Matthew LeCroy has the best bat, but his below-average arm and release could force a move to first base. Chad Moeller has the best balance of tools, but a knee injury last year helped pave the way for Pierzynski's chance. Pierzynski makes good contact but still could use more patience at the plate. Though he won't hit many homers, his gap power is good for a fair share of doubles. Considering the multiple catching options presented by the system, Pierzynski's surge came just in time for him.