Carl Chester

The depth of a strong high school crop in Florida is pitchers and outfielders, but many of the outfielders have failed to progress as expected. Chester fits that description, particularly with his bat this spring. He has plus-plus speed that plays out of the box, with run times of four seconds flat from the right side, giving him the potential to be an impact basestealer with a quick first step, and a plus defender in center field with range to both gaps. His arm is also at least average, flashing plus at its best. But he struggled to hit, with a long swing and an offensive approach not conducive to his skills. He put far too many balls in the air this spring instead of line drives, and he did not utilize his speed. He flashes power to his pull side and has enough hand strength to produce average power if he makes better contact. The 5-foot-11, 167-pounder has an athletic build, and most scouts expect him to fulfill his Miami commitment. They'll be interested to check in on him in three years.