Jordan Parraz

Parraz flew through the Royals' minor league system last season, hitting a combined .348 in 81 games for Double- and Triple-A teams (.348/.432/.541). Parraz has been on the fast track with the Royals after stalling out in the Astros' system before getting traded to Kansas City. Critics say Parraz does not get the most out of his natural ability and that he is reckless at times. He is a good defensive outfielder with a strong arm. However, his improvement in hitting discipline and overall knowledge of the strike zone have led to him being included on the Royals' 40-man roster. He hasn't shown much power yet, but his batting average has been outstanding and his contact hitting could get him to the big club at some point in 2011.

Parraz had a decent year with High-A Salem last season, hitting .289/.399/.419 with six homers, 31 doubles, 42 RBI and 21 steals in 31 chances. He’s 24 years old and hasn’t had any experience above High-A despite being in professional baseball since he was 19. While he doesn’t have a tremendous amount of pop, the 31 doubles suggest he may develop some, and he offers a big-time arm from the outfield. The clock is ticking fast on Parraz, but expect him to start the 2009 season at Double-A Corpus Christi.

Parraz, a 23-year-old outfielder, spent the year at Low-A Lexington, hitting .281/.364/.446 with 14 homers, 28 doubles and 33 steals in 43 attempts. He has a plus arm in the outfield, and ranks as the strongest outfield arm in Houston's farm system. He should start the year at High-A Salem, with an eye on Double-A Corpus Christi by the end of the season.