Wes Hodges

2013

There was no outlook written for Wes Hodges.

2010

Hodges, a former second-round pick out of Georgia Tech, took a step backward in 2009, hitting .269 with just five homers in 332 at-bats at Triple-A Columbus. He battled shoulder fatigue and a sprained right wrist for much of the season, but power had always been the main aspect that was missing from his game even when healthy. His window could be closing pretty quickly if Lonnie Chisenhall continues to develop and he'll need to make strides, both offensively and defensively, to remain at third base. He could presumably play his way onto the roster this spring in a bench role, but he's likely ticketed for a repeat performance at Triple-A.

2009

Hodges had another fine, but not fantastic, season in his second year as a professional, hitting .290 with 18 homers at Double-A. He followed that up with an excellent run in the Arizona Fall League. The Indians traded for Mark DeRosa in December to take over at third base, but Hodges' glove isn't near enough ready and his bat isn't quite there anyways. He'll be a solid player, but not likely a star unless his power develops at Triple-A this season.

2008

Hodges earned a postseason All-Star nod in the Carolina League after a .288/.367/.473 performance at High-A and the Indians hope he's their long-term answer at third base. He needs to cut down on the strikeouts, even though he does have a good eye at the plate. 22-year-olds from established college programs (Georgia Tech) are supposed to hit at High-A but it was still a very nice debut from him. He'll move up to Double-A this year and could be part of the Indians' third base picture as soon as 2009. He won't give you any speed but could be a good power source at his peak.