Top 10 Catcher Prospects

by Phil Zuccarell

1. Russell Martin -- Los Angeles Dodgers

Maybe most complete catcher in minors. Plays sound defense, can run well and shows a good eye for the ball. Most likely of all players on this list to succeed as a catcher in the Majors.

2. Jeff Clement -- Seattle Mariners

Age	2005 level	at-bats	ave	2b	3b	hr	bb	so	obp	slg
23	Low-A	113	.319	5	0	6	12	25	.386	.522

Possibly the best hitter on this list and surely has the most power. Needs to show continued improvement on defense and that his strikeouts won’t be a problem against more advanced pitchers.

3. Jared Saltalamacchia -- Atlanta Braves

Age	2005 level	at-bats	ave	2b	3b	hr	bb	so	obp	slg
21	High-A	459	.314	35	1	19	57	99	.394	.519

Has steadily improved each season in the minors. Had a breakout 2005 and is now among the elite at the position. His bat is nearly ready but his defense still needs some refinement, especially on throwing accuracy.

4. Jeff Mathis -- Los Angeles Angels

Age	2005 level	at-bats	ave	2b	3b	hr	bb	so	obp	slg
23	Triple-A	427	.276	26	3	21	42	85	.340	.499
	Majors	3	.333	0	0	0	0	1	.333	.333

Once considered a top catching prospect, he re-established himself with a solid 2005. More athletic than most catchers, could develop into one of the better all around catchers in the Majors.

5. Neil Walker -- Pittsburgh Pirates

Age	2005 level	at-bats	ave	2b	3b	hr	bb	so	obp	slg
20	Low-A	485	.301	33	2	12	20	71	.332	.452
	High-A	42	.262	2	1	0	0	12	.244	.357

The bat is his calling card and he could develop into an elite hitter. The glove, though, is a little lacking and could force a change of positions. If he can remain at catcher, should be a perennial all-star.

6. Kenji Johjima -- Seattle Mariners

Age	2005 level	at-bats	ave	2b	3b	hr	bb	so	obp	slg
29	Japan	411	.309	22	4	24	33	32	.381	.557

Proven Japanese hitter that can play defense. Will he translate that success like Ichiro and Hideki Matsui or will he flame out like Kaz Matsui? That is the million dollar question here.

7.Kurt Suzuki -- Oakland Athletics

Age	2004 level	at-bats	ave	2b	3b	hr	bb	so	obp	slg
22	High-A	441	.277	26	5	12	63	61	.378	.440

Has shown a good batting eye and performed well at Hi A. Has a strong arm but needs to improve other aspects of defense. In line to be starter in Oakland after Kendall’s contract expires.

8. Miguel Montero -- Arizona Diamondbacks

Age	2005 level	at-bats	ave	2b	3b	hr	bb	so	obp	slg
22	High-A	355	.349	24	1	24	26	52	.403	.625
	Double-A	108	.250	1	2	2	7	26	.311	.352

Wow, what a season! Had an awesome 2005 that put him on the map. Plays adequate defense now and could improve with some work. The real question is whether 2005 was his peak or a sign of great things to come. We will see as he should get a full season of Double-A ball.

9. Josh Willingham -- Florida Marlins

Age	2005 level	at-bats	ave	2b	3b	hr	bb	so	obp	slg
27	High-A	9	.222	1	0	0	0	2	.300	.333
	Triple A	219	.324	14	3	19	47	54	.455	.676
	Majors	23	.304	1	0	0	2	5	.407	.348

Maybe the worst actual catcher on this list but boy can he hit. Has shown power and plate discipline at every stop including the Majors. If he could overcome knee problems and other issues and catch, his bat would be an enviable commodity.

10. Chris Iannetta -- Colorado Rockies

Age	2005 level	at-bats	ave	2b	3b	hr	bb	so	obp	slg
23	High-A	261	.276	17	3	11	45	61	.381	.490
	Double-A	60	.233	3	1	2	8	15	.329	.417

Can catch but will he hit? Very good receiving skills and developing bat. If he can develop enough offensively he will soon be the starting catcher for the Rockies.

2006 Top Prospects by Position