not that Rizzo has speed, but he has shown great pull power. Scouts tend to undervalue plate judgement (they think it is important, but believe it can be developed/acquired). Alonso has a high hit tool, but has less power and athleticism than Rizzo. Of course, some believe Alonso bat will translate quicker given the more polished swing, and Rizzo has a long swing they hope will adjust.
rizzo has more potential as a slugger (think laroche or ryan howard) whereas alonso’s skillset is closer to a wally joyner or john olerud. however, alonso’s bat profiles a lot better at petco than rizzo’s, and he’s got considerably less risk attached. even if rizzo is potentially a better prospect, he’s less valuable to the padres than alonso.
I called into a MLB home plate and talked to the Baseball Prospectus guys a few weeks about him. They love Liriano. Love the tools, compact swing and “escape velocity” he puts on the ball. Compared his contact power to Mike Stanton, but more line-drive than lift.
Not sure what to make of where Rizzo and Alonso are...
Zen Blade - February 13, 2012
Rizzo's younger and with more potential upside, right?
Dex - February 13, 2012
scouts love power and speed
not that Rizzo has speed, but he has shown great pull power. Scouts tend to undervalue plate judgement (they think it is important, but believe it can be developed/acquired). Alonso has a high hit tool, but has less power and athleticism than Rizzo. Of course, some believe Alonso bat will translate quicker given the more polished swing, and Rizzo has a long swing they hope will adjust.
Ron Mexico - February 13, 2012
don't overthink it
rizzo has more potential as a slugger (think laroche or ryan howard) whereas alonso’s skillset is closer to a wally joyner or john olerud. however, alonso’s bat profiles a lot better at petco than rizzo’s, and he’s got considerably less risk attached. even if rizzo is potentially a better prospect, he’s less valuable to the padres than alonso.
iheartyourfart - February 13, 2012
Liriano
I called into a MLB home plate and talked to the Baseball Prospectus guys a few weeks about him. They love Liriano. Love the tools, compact swing and “escape velocity” he puts on the ball. Compared his contact power to Mike Stanton, but more line-drive than lift.
Ron Mexico - February 13, 2012
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