And we’re back! Every so often Twinkie Talk will be running down our list for the best 15 prospects in the Twins minor league system. Today’s prospect is #13 Max Kepler
Who: Max Kepler
Position: OF
How Acquired: International free agent
Highest Level Reached in 2009: N/A
Kepler was given 800,000 last July, and in doing so received the largest bonus ever given to a European prospect. One scout, speaking anonymously to Baseball America’s Ben Badler, said that Kepler is probably the toolsiest player ever from Europe.
Kepler is a player who has a lefty swing that has drawn comps to former Dodger OF Shawn Green. Kepler will probably fill out more as he gets older (he’s still in high school, obviously) and hopefully he will add some power to his frame.
Kepler has as high of a ceiling as anyone in the Twins system because of his tools. But, because of his age, lack of polish, and the fact that he is from Europe makes this a risky player to bet on. If he reaches his ceiling he could be an absolute monster, but I think a 4th outfielder is more realistic.