Chris Gimenez has been one of the many shining stars currently playing down I-77 for the Akron Aeros.
This converted catcher is putting up huge offensive numbers, batting .309 (with an eye-popping .472 On Base Percentage), 4 homeruns and 18 RBI in 46 games.
If he continues to get on base at his current pace, look to see him up at some point with the big club in 2009.
Gimenez was drafted in the 19th round in 2004 out of the University of Nevada, where he played all over the diamond.
Indians Director of Player Development Ross Atkins has raved about this prospect, saying he is a natural leader who takes charge in the clubhouse. Atkins also stated that Chris is currently one of the most productive minor league bats in the system.
- B/R Ticket Guide
At 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, he is an extremely durable player who has made the transition to the catching position pretty well.
The Akron starting staff has been up and down (with David Huff and Ryan Edell being the "up"), but the coaching staff has still allowed Gimenez to call 100 percent of his pitches.
Roving catching instructor Tim Laker has been working with him often, even utilizing a catching machine that delivers real pitches (fastballs, curves, etc.) as if it were a live game.
Atkins has stated that Gimenez still needs to be consistent throwing down to second in order to control the running game.
At the plate, Gimenez has raked at every minor league level. Through 2007 (387 games), he has amassed 60 HR's and compiled a .374 OBP.
With Victor Martinez possibly being moved to first base someday, I believe Gimenez may not be the best defensive catcher, but he could provide a much-needed bat.
Note: The majority of this article's information was researched from Cleveland Indians Minor League Insider, and you can find even more about Gimenez here.
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7 months ago
Sounds like a nice player. I like how you pointed out the OBP, I think that is a very underrated stat in baseball.
6 months ago
he is a kid that i have known for a long time in gilroy, he has wirked real hard to get where he is. i am proud to know him and glad to see that a local kid is making a name for himself diffently doing it for the love of the sport.
ed
18 days ago
i played with chris in high school and everybody new he was going to make it.he was a fierce competetor and a hard worker.i am proud of him and look forward to see him in the show next year!
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