Prospect Report - Day 7

NUMBER 4: Chris Lubanski - OF

Lubanski was drafted out of high school by the Royals - taken in the first round of the 2003 draft (the 5th overall pick). At 6-3/205 lbs, he's a pretty big, athletic guy - and he's only 21 (turns 22 this March). He's been one of the more highly touted prospects in this organization in recent history. He put up good numbers with last season's stellar Wichita (AA) team - batting .282 with 34 doubles, 11 triples, and 15 homers.

One negative in Lubanski's career has been his tendency to get off to a slow start. On the flip-side, a positive has been his ability to make adjustments throughout the season, as he always hits better as the season progresses. Over the span of his career, he's posted a .978 OPS (on-base percent + slugging percent) after the all-star break....over 200 points higher than before the all-star break.

According to a report from Baseball Prospectus, Lubanski became a better hitter last season, as his walk and strikeout rates both significantly improved. That report claims that Lubanski changed his batting stance, helping him get his bat into the strike zone more quickly. His plate discipline has improved quite a bit, and last season he led the Texas League in walks. Lubanski has great speed and his power should continue to improve.

Something that could use a great deal of improvement is his defense. I haven't read one report on Lubanski that has anything very good to say about his play in the outfield. Everything I've seen and heard indicate that he's bad outfielder - he makes bad reads, runs bad routes and has (at best) an average arm. That being said...the Royals still hope that Lubanski can be their left fielder of the future.

PROJECTION:

Once thought of as a speedster, that strength is now gone from Lubanski's game. He's filled out and lost a little speed, and he's not the best base stealer. He seems to be a solid hitter who keeps getting better (and has room to improve even more).

There seem to be a lot of mixed feelings on Lubanski's future.....worst case scenario - the guy becomes a very solid 4th outfielder who can play either corner and give you solid at bats in a reserve or platoon role. Best case? Well....at best, I'd project him as an average big league left fielder in another year or two. A guy who can hit for a decent average, draw some walks, and hit with some pop (I could see him averaging 35 doubles, 10 triples, and 15 homers).