Kes Carter
| AB | 1109 |
|---|---|
| AVG | .233 |
| OBP | .32 |
| SLG | .36 |
| HR | 16 |
- Full name John Kes Carter
- Born 03/03/1990 in Memphis, TN
- Profile Ht.: 6'2" / Wt.: 205 / Bats: L / Throws: L
- School Western Kentucky
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Drafted in the C-A round (56th overall) by the Tampa Bay Rays in 2011 (signed for $625,000).
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Western Kentucky is one of the better mid-major programs in college baseball, having won 77 games and produced 11 draft picks in the previous two seasons. The Hilltoppers should have another half-dozen players selected in 2011, led by Carter, who could become the highest-drafted player in school history. An athletic 6-foot-2, 205-pounder, Carter flashes all five tools. His smooth lefthanded stroke and disciplined approach allow him to hit for average, and he has at least average power potential. He still needs to fine-tune his timing at the plate and turn on balls more frequently. He has slightly above-average speed that plays up on the bases and in center field, as well as a solid arm for the position. The biggest issues with Carter are his struggles against lefthanded pitching and his health. He injured his hip in the Coastal Plain League last summer, sat out during fall practice and missed time this spring with a calf strain. Nevertheless, he shouldn't last past the second round
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Organization Prospect Rankings
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The highest-drafted player in the 92-year history of Western Kentucky's baseball program, Carter went 56th overall in the 2011 draft. He was the Rays' eighth pick and signed quickly for $625,000, but played in just three games before his pro debut ended because of shin splints. Injuries have been an issue for Carter, who injured his hip in the Coastal Plain League in the summer of 2010 and was hampered by a strained calf last spring. When healthy, the athletic Carter flashes all five tools. He has a smooth lefthanded stroke and worked hard in college on developing a middle-away approach and better plate discipline. He should have at least average power once he starts turning on more pitches, though he'll have to make more consistent contact against lefthanders. Carter's speed is a tick above average, and he uses his solid instincts to get good jumps on the bases and in the outfield. He may not stick in center fielder in the majors, but his strong, accurate arm easily fits in right field. Carter could return to his college stomping grounds in Bowling Green for his first full pro season.
