Editors Note: As we start to organize our notes for our Team Top 10 lists (starting Oct. 2nd), we thought we would release some of the more impressive players that our scouts have seen live over the spring and summer. Next in line: Pittsburgh Pirate outfielder, Harold Ramirez.
Harold Ramirez (OF)
Harold Ramirez had a breakout year in 2015 posting an impressive .333/.401/.460 slash line in 75 games in the Florida State League. Ramirez didn’t play a full season because he was held back in extended spring training for reportedly arriving to Spring Training overweight. At 5-foot-10 and 210 pounds, Ramirez is already a little stocky, so hopefully the Pirates have addressed the issue and it is behind him.
Scouting Report: Ramirez carrying tool is his hit-tool. He has a mature approach and can barrel the ball with authority to all fields. The swing is currently doubles-oriented but he has enough size, strength and bat speed to project 12 to 15 home runs at the highest level. His plus foot-speed did drop a grade, perhaps due to him being a little out of shape and the results were not good. While he stole 21 bases, he was also caught 14 times. As Ramirez naturally fills out, the speed will continue to regress with a ceiling of 8 to 12 stolen bases annually more likely than 20 plus.
Defensively, the Pirates have moved Ramirez to right field where he profiles as an average defender. As with Austin Meadows, Ramirez is blocked but will likely struggle to crawl over Meadows on the depth chart. Given his growing hit tool, he could be an intriguing trade chip in the future as the Pirates will likely always need pitching at the major league level.
Fantasy Impact: Ramirez is still flying under-the-radar in many Dynasty Leagues but with his breakout campaign, that is quickly changing. Now might be the last time to jump in and acquire him for a reasonable price. The ceiling is a .280 hitter with 12 to 15 home runs and 8 to 12 stolen bases. It’s slightly lesser version of Austin Meadows.
