The Rockies are in the midst of a minor renovation for 2009 and 22 year old centerfielder Dexter Fowler may eventually be the finishing touch. As of now, Willy Taveras remains in center, but trade rumors have been swirling for a while now and it should just be a matter of time before the Rockies move him. As it is now, the Rockies are locked into Brad Hawpe in right and that’s it. Ryan Spilborghs could be a full timer in center or left though he’s best suited for a corner spot. Seth Smith could get some AB’s. The other competition is recently acquired Carlos Gonzalez. The jury is still out on Gonzalez. He was a top prospect with Arizona and a major part of the Haren trade, but concerns over his attitude and passion for the game have some wondering if his talents will ever materialize. Personally I think Gonzalez has the ability to crack 20+ HR’s if he played full time in Colorado, but that’s another story. No matter if there is a spot for Fowler to begin 2009 or not he should force the hand of the Rockies before to long.
2009 Expectations
Fowler will be 23 on opening day and has shown the ability to get on base. His OBP has continued to trend upward since his pro debut at age 19. His biggest attribute for 2009 could very well be his speed because, say it with me, speed never slumps. He should steal 20 with no problem. There is debate on whether or not Fowler will develop much power, but 10-12 HR’s should be attainable over a full major league season. It seems that the Rockies would like to start Fowler at AAA, but his talent can play in the bigs right now.
Keeper Incentive
Baseball Prospectus’s Kevin Goldstein offers his take on Fowler;
This is one of those special players who catches your eye the moment he takes the field, and then backs it up with his performance. There’s really nothing he can’t do: he has a pro approach at the plate, makes consistent hard contact with gap power and projection for more, is a plus-plus runner, and he’s an outstanding center fielder with a good arm. As if all of that isn’t enough, you can add that he has outstanding makeup and intelligence.
Assuming Fowler finishes the season as a fixture in the Rockies outfield, you’ll be happy to have him on your fantasy roster for 2010 and beyond.
Here’s my full Hot Prospect Corner article on Dexter Fowler.
Filed under: 2009 Top 10 Fantasy Prospects, Hot Prospect Corner | Tagged: 2009 Prospects, Dexter Fowler, Fantasy Baseball
