Jurickson Profar: Arizona Fall League Wrap up

The Arizona Fall League is coming to a close at the end of this week.  One of the most notable Texas Rangers playing in the AFL is shortstop Jurickson Profar.  Along with Profar are several other prospects such as RHP Luis Ortiz, and RHP Connor Sadzeck

Luis Ortiz was drafted 30th in the first round of the amateur draft in 2014 by the Texas Rangers.  He’s a young arm who’s doing very well over his little time within the Rangers farm system.  It’s doubtful we’ll see him anytime soon in the majors, but he’s still fun to follow.  Currently in the Arizona Fall League he has a 1.80 ERA over 4 games/5.0 IP with 1  walks, and 3 strikeouts.  Last season in minors he had an ERA of 1.80.  You might wonder how this stacks up against major league talent.  The Arizona Fall League has a lot of top prospects and some young major league players playing in the league.  It’s not as tough as maybe Triple-A ball, but it does deliver some good competition.

Another notable Rangers in the AFL is RHP Connor Sadzeck.   He’s been steadily moving up in the ranks over the last 3 years.  He ended the minor league system playing for the Frisco Roughriders.  With them he played in 7 games (6 starts) and had an ERA of 9.61 over 19.2 innings pitched.  He did better in A-ball when he was with the High Desert Mavericks when he had a 3.98 ERA over 11 games ( 8 starts) and pitched 40.2 innings.   He’s getting some extra time in the AFL league and has hit some rocky games to give him a 9.90 ERA.   The AFL season is winding down with their championship game on Saturday.  I’d expect to see him again in Frisco starting the 2016 season.

Lastly, shortstop Jurickson Profar finally got some long awaited playing time.  Unfortunately Profar didn’t get to show off his throwing ability.   As the designated hitter Proar batted .267 with 6 doubles, 1 triple, 2 home runs and 20 RBI.   His 20 RBI are third best in the AFL and his 6 doubles put him 8th place.  It’s easy to see why he quickly starting to gain attention this offseason by several teams trying to acquire the young shortstop.

Watch: 11/10/15 – Profar hits a three-run home run to left field in the 4th inning to give the Saguaros a 4-2 lead.

Next: Jeff Banister Top 10 moments in 2015

Overall, Jurickson Profar had a very good comeback in the Arizona Fall League.  Well, it’s hard to call it a comeback yet because he hasn’t gone against major league talent or played in the field.  But, it was a huge first step.  He’ll be at the Texas Rangers Spring Training and will battle to be a bench guy for the middle infield.  I would be surprised if he makes it because I feel like he’ll end up in the minors to allow him more time to regain his skill set.  I wish the best to Profar and I’m glad to see he is bouncing back well.  Looking forward to seeing him play this spring.