Jordan Schafer

2013

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2012

In his first major league action since 2009, Schafer looked kind of like the same disappointment he was to fantasy owners two years ago. He hit from the leadoff spot a lot, but his .309 OBP did not do his fantasy owners, or the Astros, any favors. There was a time when Schafer was considered one of the top prospects in the Braves' system. Critics noted that Schafer changed his swing mechanics when he first got called up, attempting to become a power hitter when speed and defense was his calling card. Schafer has refocused himself on his core capabilities, but has yet to string it all together. He figures to be in the mix for outfield at-bats in 2012. If you're looking for cheap speed and can handle the expected batting average hit, Schafer is someone to consider in the endgame.

2011

Schafer's career has spiraled downward since he hurt his wrist shortly after he was named Atlanta's Opening Day center fielder in 2009. Schafer hit just .201/.268/.255 between three levels last season and was demoted from Triple-A to Double-A at one point as the wrist continued to be an issue. When healthy, his power/speed potential and an ability to draw walks made him a top prospect. While he won't need additional surgery on his wrist, his health remains uncertain heading into 2011. Still, Atlanta GM Frank Wren said Schafer will be given a chance to win the backup center field job this spring.

2010

Schafer entered 2009 as Atlanta's top hitting prospect and won the starting center field job out of spring training. However, he struggled by hitting just .204 and was sent to Triple-A in June. It was later revealed he was playing with a bone bruise in his wrist that eventually required surgery to remove a bone spur. His wrist injury and the acquisition of Nate McLouth means he'll need to prove himself in the minors before being considered for an everyday job in the majors again. But his uncertain 2010 outlook could make him a nice value due to his power/speed potential and he did show an ability to draw walks in the majors despite his struggles.

2009

Schafer entered 2008 as the center fielder of the future for the Braves and there was talk he could be a starter in the majors. But that talk came to a screeching halt after a 50-game suspension for violating MLB's substance-abuse policy for using human growth hormone. When he returned, he started slow at Double-A Mississippi before catching fire in the second half, hitting .323/.412/.636 in August. His power/speed potential and excellent defense remain very intriguing, with his main flaw at this point being a high strikeout rate. The suspension didn't seem to have any lingering effects or hurt Atlanta's confidence in him. A strong start at Triple-A could see him called up to the majors and he could be a regular for the Braves before season's end.

2008

Schafer is being called Atlanta's center fielder of the future after impressive 2007 season. He hit .312/.374/.513 with 15 home runs between Low-A and High-A and then drew raves as one of the youngest players in the Arizona Fall League, where he hit .324/.395/.429. He's seen as a premium defender with a strong arm and good range, but needs to work on reducing strikeouts at the plate. The Braves have said he could contend for a big league job this spring, but he'll likely start at Double-A with a late-season call-up to the majors possible. He's a player to grab in keeper leagues.