Houston Astros Top Ten Prospects For 2017

Sep 4, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; A view of the Houston Astros patch and logo on the jersey of Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa (1) during the game against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. The Astros defeat the Rangers 7-6. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 4, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; A view of the Houston Astros patch and logo on the jersey of Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa (1) during the game against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. The Astros defeat the Rangers 7-6. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
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1. Kyle Tucker, OF

Birthdate: 1/17/97 (19 years old)
Level(s) Played in 2016: low A, high A
Stats in 2016: .285/.360/.438, 9 HR, 32 SB

Tucker’s brother Preston Tucker was a draftee out of college into the Houston system, and roughly a month after he made his major league debut for the big league club in 2015, they drafted Kyle #5 overall as a money-saving maneuver that allowed them to also select Daz Cameron at #37 as well.

Kyle is definitely the more elite athlete of the two brothers, built like a pure athlete at 6’4 and roughly 200 pounds (Preston is 6′ and 215). Kyle is considered to have elite tools across the board, widely considered the best high school hitter in the 2015 draft, and in the argument with Brendan Rodgers as the best overall high school player.

Tucker showed his elite combination of tools as he racked up 25 doubles, 7 triples, and 9 home runs across two levels as a teenager to show his power. He also flashed 32 stolen bases in 44 attempts to display his speed.

Tucker’s best attribute is his contact ability, and he has a very controlled left-handed swing that is able to make consistent contact and keep the bat in the zone for extended time with good power position.

Tucker has a fringe-plus arm, and he’s shown solid instincts in the corners, which could allow him to play at a fringe plus level defensively in right field as he moves forward.

Tucker will likely see AA as a 20 year old in 2017, which is incredible progress for the young outfielder, and there is absolutely reason to consider him among the top 25-50 prospects in the entire game.

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