Chris Stewart

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Chicago White Sox #23 prospect in 2007
  Perseverance has been the key for Stewart, who developed quietly since signing as a 12thround pick in 2001. He's the best defensive catcher in the system, and the White Sox credit his role in the development for pitchers as varied as fireballer Bobby Jenks and knuckleballer Charlie Haeger. He enhances average arm strength with a quick release and accuracy, allowing him to led the Southern League in catching basestealers (52 percent) in 2005 and rank second in the International League (49 percent) last year. He's solid in all phases of catching and pitchers enjoy working to him. Stewart's bat is question mark and probably will limit him to a backup role. He hit a career-high 11 homers in 2005 but has totaled eight longballs in his other four pro seasons. The gains he made at the plate in Double-A didn't extend to Triple-A. He makes contact but his lack of bat speed forces him to be a guess hitter. He doesn't hit for average, draw walks or offer more than marginal power. He's also a below-average runner though not as much of a baseclogger as most catchers. Stewart's defense could make him a valuable reserve, but the signing of free agent Toby Hall hurts his chances of opening the season in Chicago.
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  Ranked Chicago White Sox #19 prospect in 2006
  The White Sox have respected Stewart's gamecalling and receiving skills for years. In 2005, they trusted him to play a role in the development of a varied cast of prospects from the powerful Bobby Jenks to knuckleballer Charles Haeger. With his strong arm, Stewart led Southern League catchers by throwing out 52 percent of basestealers. While repeating Double-A, he also had a breakout season at the plate, hitting 11 homers after totaling four in his first three seasons. His .286 average was a career high and 55 points higher than his previous average. He's a below-average runner but not bad for a catcher. His performance earned him a spot on the 40-man roster and a starting job in the Dominican League. While Stewart will have to prove he can hit again this year in Triple-A, Chicago's backup catching job could be awaiting him in 2007.