Chris Lubanski

Lubanski has the most question marks of any of the Royals’ young outfield contingent nearing the major leagues. The former center fielder, now a top-notch left fielder, has stretches where he can't find the ball, but overcomes them with a nifty power stroke. His selectivity is improving and his strikeouts are decreasing, but he still projects to strikeout 100+ times in the big leagues. The 2003 first-rounder is no sure bet for stardom, but if he keeps the cold streaks to a minimum early in 2007, he could quickly become a fixture in the Kansas City outfield.

Lubanski had 72 extra-base hits for High Desert in the California League in 2005, including 28 HR. Add to that 14 SB in 15 attempts, 116 RBI and 91 runs and you can see why the Royals are excited about this 2003 first-round selection. But there is a minor issue, which has stung plenty of minor league power hitters: he struck out 131 times while walking 38. As he moves up the line, the strikes he was slamming out of the park are going to be breaking balls out of the strike zone. He'll get his chance to avoid those bad pitches beginning in 2006 probably in Double-A Wichita.

When Carlos Beltran was 19 and hitting well in Single-A, he was two years shy of his first season in the majors and a rookie of the year honor. Lubanski, the fifth player taken in the 2003 amateur draft, has been favorably compared to Beltran during his short career – probably because both were talented and skinny when they joined the Royals. Lubanski hits for average and power, can run (although he’s working on greater success) and plays good defense. He’s a five-tool athlete with a strong sixth tool, as well – heart.

Lubanski has five-tool talent, which made him the Royals' No. 1 pick in 2003. His arm is questioned after his first season, but his 6-foot-3, 190-pound frame and speed make him a good bet for the majors in a few seasons.