By Chris Douthat
Over the years, I've gotten pretty excited over some prospects. More often than not, the guys I rooted for usually ended up floundering and not doing much (I am a Mets fan after all.) But occasionally, a player will appear that erases any doubts I have. Eric Hosmer is one of those players.Just by looking at Hosmer’s 2010 batting line, you can tell this kid is an animal. Hitting .338 with 43 doubles, 9 triples, and 20 HR, the first baseman absolutely crushed Wilmington (A+) and Northwest Arkansas (AA) pitching. Hosmer also walked an impressive 59 times and even swiped 14 bases, surprising when you consider his size (6’4, 230 lb.) This kid can do it all, and the Royals, not to mention the rest of baseball, are ecstatic about what he can do and the potential he possess.
Drafted third overall in the 2008 draft, Hosmer is being tabbed by media and talent evaluators alike as the best bet in the Royals farm system to become a star. Growing up in Southern Florida, Hosmer didn’t live too far from the beach. According to Sam Mellinger of the Kansas City Star though, he wouldn’t go until after four-hour sessions in the batting cages.
That intense work ethic has carried into his professional career as well. In 27 games for Wilmington in 2009, Hosmer was noticeably overmatched, as he only hit .206 with 2 doubles, 2 triples, and 1 HR. He also struck out twice as much as he walked. The next year though, he took Wilmington by storm. With a .354 batting average, Hosmer hit 29 doubles, 6 triples, and 20 HR, erasing any doubts by those who say he might be a bit over his head.
Hosmer is slated to begin 2011 with Omaha (AAA.) If he plays well, expect the Royals to call him up towards the end of the season, as they look to see how he does against Major League pitching while also getting his feet wet some. 2012 is going to be a big year in Kansas City, as Hosmer along with Mike Moustakas should be ready to take over the corner infield positions. Get excited folks, I know I am.
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