clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

DRaysBay Community Prospect Recap: #29 and #30

Reports on Brandon Martin and Granden Goetzman.

Granden Goetzman has earned comparisons to Jason Werth
Granden Goetzman has earned comparisons to Jason Werth
Mike Zarrilli

29. Brandon Martin, SS (35%)

Strengths: Excellent defensive ability at shortstop with both the natural tools and the feel to play plus defense; above average raw power, leading to 10 home runs in only 63 games; solid speed with a quick first step.

Weaknesses: Poor plate discipline and contact skills, leading to a .209 batting average and a 73/21 K/BB rate.

2012 Campaign: After a solid showing with the Rays in his first season in 2011, Martin played in Princeton in 2012. In his 63 games, he hit .209/.272/.402, good for an 85 wRC+. His defense, which was considered good coming out of the draft, impressed many evaluators.

Going Forward: Given his ability to capably handle the demanding shortstop position capably, Brandon Martin's path the the major leagues is very clear if he can find a way to hit. As of right now, he is a good athlete with strong offensive tools who needs (perhaps years of) refinement. For that reason, his promotion through the minor leagues should be dependent on his development. Do not expect him to progress up the ladder quickly like fellow 2011 prep shortstop draftee Jake Hager. But if Martin manages to improve his contact skills and tap into his power, his upside is tantalizing.

30. Granden Goetzman, OF (33%)

Strengths: Great potential with the bat, featuring excellent hand-eye coordination, above average power, and the ability to drive the ball; excellent defense, enabling him to handle any one of the three outfield positions with his speed and arm strength; above average speed, leading to seven stolen bases in only 12 games.

Weaknesses: Injuries, injuries, and injuries. After minor shoulder injuries limited his exposure prior to the draft, he suffered a groin injury that limited him to 25 games in 2011. In 2012, after playing only 12 games, a stress fracture in his back ended his season.

2012 Season: While Goetzman's season lasted on 12 games, he did manage to play well during the brief time he was on the field. He batted .298/.346/.468 with one home run and a 7/4 K/BB.

Going Forward: The best thing Goetzman can do to jump up the prospect ranks is to simply stay healthy. He has the raw talent to be an impact player, but injuries have kept him from taking the field too often. It will be interesting to see where the Rays send him in 2013; Bowling Green, Hudson Valley, and maybe even Princeton are all possibilities.