And here we are with the second Valley League alumnus to make Baseball America's top 10 prospect list for the Florida Marlins (subscription only): former Harrisonburg Turk Scott Cousins (05).
Scott had a break out of sorts in 2009 in the Marlins' system, hitting 31 doubles, 11 triples, 12 home runs, stealing 27 bases, and ending with the line 263/323/448 in 482 at-bats. He was also excellent in the outfield, and was named the best defensive outfielder in the system.
Here's his scouting report:
Background: It has taken Cousins three pro seasons to break into the Marlins Top 10, but that's mostly because he was stuck in a highly talented system. A two-way star at the University of San Francisco, he signed for $407,500 and steadily has increased his profile. Managers voted him the most exciting player in the Florida State League in 2008, and he fit neatly into the No. 5 batting slot behind Logan Morrison and Mike Stanton as Double-A Jacksonville won the Southern League title in 2009.
Strengths: The best defensive outfielder in the system, Cousins is a tooled-up option at all three outfield spots. He has the ability to stay in center if necessary, and his plus arm profiles well for right. He shows the potential to hit for average and power, and he took a big step forward with his basestealing instincts last year.
Weaknesses: Cousins still struggles at times against lefties. His refusal to stay patient at the plate causes him to fall into some prolonged funks, and he needs to improve his consistency.
The Future: With Jeremy Hermida traded, Cousins could get a shot at winning the left-field job next spring. Some believe he has perhaps the highest ceiling of any Marlins position prospect besides Stanton.
Tons to like here! Most exciting, excellent defender, good basestealing instincts, might win left-field job in the spring?!? Throw in a very high ceiling, and Scott Cousins might just have an excellent major league career. Well done, Scott!
Congratulations Scott Cousins. We're so proud of you and happy for you! Keep up the good work, we're all pulling for you!
Posted by: Teresa Wease | November 25, 2009 at 09:28 PM