2013 MLB Draft Profile: Jan Hernandez, 3B, San Lorenzo, PR

Jan Hernandez, 3B, San Lorenzo, PR
High School Senior
Bats/Throws: Right/Right
HT/WT: 6'3"/195
Birthdate: 1/3/95 Age at Draft: 18.56

Jan Hernandez Prospect Video, Carlos Beltran Adademy, Puerto Rico (via Steve Fiorindo)

At 6'3, 195, Hernandez is large for a shortstop, so the conversation will always lead to whether he can stick there. I think he has as good of a shot as anybody his size to stay there. He is a thicker build than fellow Puerto Rican, Carlos Correa, but Hernandez has good infield actions and a strong arm. If he has to move to third base, he should be an above average defender. He played there in deference to Correa, who he played alongside last year, so the comparisons will be frequent over the coming months. His speed is average and he will likely slow down over time. He runs awkwardly, as if his legs are very heavy, but he isn't slow. He may be a little knock-kneed. I can't completely tell what the issue is with his speed.

At the plate, Hernandez is an impressive hitter. He has a strong swing that is easy to project producing plus power. He hits the ball with authority. He has a good approach, clean swing mechanics and strong follow through. He is a very good hitting prospect.

If you told me in ten years that Jan Hernandez will be the best hitter from the 2013 draft, I would not be surprised.

Hernandez has the potential to be a middle of the order hitter while holding down the hot corner, or shortstop in a perfect world. He is a guy who could hit .270-.280 with 20, or in a career year, 30 homers. He will offer solid defense if not above average defense. At his peak he could be a perennial all-star. He's fun to dream on and someone with that dream will take him in the first round. If he doesn't sign, which I don't see, he's currently uncommitted but the University of Miami would be a likely destination