Yesterday the Texas Rangers and Milwaukee Brewers completed the Jonathan Lucroy trade, with outfielder Ryan Cordell being sent from Texas to Wisconsin. Here's a quick take on the newest Brewers prospect.
Ryan Cordell, OF: The Rangers drafted Cordell in the 11th round in 2013 from Liberty University. He's been a solid performer in the Texas system, hitting .318/.385/.530 between Low-A and High-A in 2014, .270/.327/.440 between High-A and Double-A in 2015, and .264/.319/.484 this year in 107 games for Double-A Fresno. He's stolen 72 bases in 90 attempts in his four-year career. His 2016 season ended early due to a knee injury but this is not expected to be a long-term concern.
Cordell is a 6-4, 195 pound right-handed hitter and thrower born March 31st, 1992. He's a bit older than the typical hot prospect, with no Triple-A experience on his resume at age 24, but he was considered to be somewhat raw for a college player when drafted and has made steady progress. His best physical tool is speed, rated at 60-grade by most experts, but he has some pop in his bat too with 50 or 55-grade raw power. His arm is solid-average but his outfield defensive instincts are strong and he can handle all three positions. He also has experience at third base and shortstop but is not a natural fielder at those positions.
Cordell's biggest flaw is erratic pitch recognition. He's not likely to hit for high averages or on-base percentages in the majors, but his combination of speed, occasional power, and defensive ability should make him a good role player.
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