Jarrod Dyson

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Kansas City Royals #20 prospect in 2011
  Dyson is proof that even the latest late-round picks can turn out. A 50th-rounder in 2006, he was the 1,475th player taken that year and signed for $5,000. Because of his late-round pedigree, Dyson has had a slow climb and often was viewed as the fourth outfielder on his minor league teams. His development also was delayed by a 50-game suspension in 2009 for amphetamine use, and he missed nearly two months in 2010 with a torn lat muscle and a high ankle sprain. Dyson is one of the fastest runners in baseball, with an explosive first step that serves him well on the bases and in center field. He stole nine bases in 10 attempts during his September callup with the Royals. A potential Gold Glove defender, he had 10 putouts in his eighth big league start, tying the franchise record held by Amos Otis and Carlos Beltran. And unlike many small, speedy outfielders, Dyson has solid arm strength. However, there are legitimate questions about his bat. He's prone to chase pitches up and out of the zone, and he walks less than desired for a leadoff hitter. He also offers no power at all, so he has to focus entirely on getting on base. There are a lot of reasons to be concerned about Dyson's long term potential, as he's already 26, he never has played 100 games in a season and his profile is very similar to failed prospect Joey Gathright. But the Royals are excited by Dyson's electric speed and believe he's a late bloomer. He'll head to spring training with a chance to win their center-field job.