Casey Schmitt, 3B
DOB: 3/1/1999
BATS: R / THROWS: R
ACQUIRED: Drafted 2020, 2nd Round
LAST LEVEL: Low-A
VOLATILITY: High
STATS
GiantFutures 2022 Ranks: #1 Third Baseman, #24 Overall
Performance: In his first pro season, Schmitt had a rough and inconsistent year. A cold first month of the season gave way to a strong early summer, but he faded off as the year ended and missed the final month due to getting hit on the hand with a pitch. Schmitt had an interesting hitting split, putting up a far better average against lefties (.304 versus .234), but all of Schmitt’s home runs (8) came against right-handers. At the plate, Schmitt struck out just 44 times in 251 at-bats, and walked 22 times.
Defensively, Schmitt was just as expected, a smooth third fielder with range and a strong arm. In 50 games at the hot corner, Schmitt made just three errors.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Schmitt’s biggest strength is his defense. He has range and soft hands, though his fundamentals are still developing. He also has a plus arm, easily able to make the tough throws. There is no question about his ability to play the position, and has gold glove potential.
Schmitt’s hitting is a bigger question. In college, Schmitt developed a reputation as a contact hitter for average and an ability to make hard contact, but he did not show the power normally desired from a third baseman. The Giants were clearly intending for him to make changes to his swing to bring about some power, but that may have had negative consequences in his first season, affecting his contact hitting.
Schmitt’s arm is strong enough that he served as a relief pitcher in college. While the Giants have committed to him at third base, pitching may remain a fallback for him.
2022 Outlook: Schmitt’s hitting remains a big question. I expect the Giants to be aggressive and push him to High-A, where his defense will be challenged with Eugene’s artificial turf field.
Future Profile: Third base seems like Schmitt’s obvious future home, and his defense could carry him. HIs offensive ability remains the key, but even if he becomes more of a contact and doubles hitter, his defense could make him a key role player on a big league team.
Recent Comments