Nick Castellanos looking optimistic about his future – MLB News
According to Baseball America, Nick Castellanos is Tigers’ Number 2 prospect after Jacob Turner. The 19-year-old has amazing hitting abilities and he brings great energy on the field. A few months ago, it seemed as if the striker is on his way to break into the Tigers final roster as a third baseman. However, that did not turn out to be the case as Miguel Cabrera is going to play that position until the end of 2014.
"I feel really honored they gave me the opportunity to be in the same locker room as the big league squad," he said.
Castellanos has improved his game play significantly over the last few months. He turned professional only a couple of years ago. The Tigers inviting him to 2012 Spring Training goes on to suggest that he has impressed the coaches and management.
Everything seemed to be on the track until Tigers’ general manager Dave Dombrowski decided to acquire Prince Fielder for nine years on a $214 million contract. Fielder’s signing proved to be a disaster for the young prospect as Miguel Cabrera will be playing third base now, a position Castellanos was supposed to take on.
"He showed more plate discipline and a better approach as the season went on, making in-game adjustments and staying inside the ball better," Baseball America reports in its Prospect Handbook. "Castellanos isn't a major home-run threat yet but barrels the ball well and tied for second in the Midwest League with 36 doubles. Once he gets stronger, pulls more pitches and adds more backspin, he should have at least average power and perhaps more."
The move has left Castellanos in a very confusing situation. Four weeks ago, there was a growing sense that the Tigers will sign him as a third baseman for next two to three years. However, Fielder- Tigers deal seems to have ruined his party.
If Cabrera completes the time on his contract, Castellanos will find it very difficult to break into the team. While the situation looks very depressing for the right handed striker at the moment, he will be looking to work hard to avail any opportunity that may arise in the near future.
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