LATEST PG SHOWCASE REPORT
2004 Underclass National Showcase
Joaquin Valdes -- Valdes is a junior third baseman with a great baseball body and lots of potential. He is long and lean, although he doesn’t appear to be a full 6-4, he's very projectable. Valdes is listed as a switch hitter but only hit right handed in Fort Myers. Valdes hits with a narrow and slightly open stance at the plate. He has a full bat wrap behind his head, which creates some length to his swing, but it also creates significant torque and power potential. Valdes generates very good bat speed and has significant lift in his swing. The ball jumps off his bat and gets very good back spin carry. This young hitter is going to hit big home runs in the future. Defensively, Valdes shows quick feet and good balance in the field. He has good 3B actions that appear effortless. He’s not a strong runner in a straight line but he has nice range at third base and good arm strength across the diamond. Valdes is a definite college level third baseman who pro scouts are going to like as well because of the power potential and projection. Joaquin is a good student.