ON Top 50 Prospects – #22: Connor Narron

Connor Narron represented a somewhat risky over-slot pick for BAL Director of Scouting Joe Jordan. He had a verbal commitment to North Carolina but opted to sign with Baltimore on August 4th, 2010.

Connor is the son of ex-big leaguer Jerry Narron. The switch hitter is a fluid defender with a strong and accurate arm, but will likely settle in at third base. He has the tools to be an above average defender at the hot corner. His above-average speed would play at shortstop but his overall package is better suited for third.

Narron raised some eyebrows after ‘only’ hitting .317 in his senior campaign. He walked nearly twice a game, pretty clearly being pitched around. Still, the relatively low average for a highly drafted high schooler is a bit of a red flag.

Although it’s come in a small sample size, Narron’s transition from high school to the minors hasn’t been an easy one. He struck out in 27.5% of his at-bats during his time with the GCL Orioles and he saw that number jump to 35.1% after a promotion to Aberdeen.

I saw Narron play three times in the GCL and I came away impressed with his sharp eye and patience. This actually hurts him at times as he can be a bit too selective and take too many pitches that translate into strikeouts looking.

Narron is still raw at the plate and would get eaten up by pitchers in the South Atlantic League. He’s better off staying in extended spring training and joining the IronBirds when short-season clubs begin, which is what is most likely to happen with Manny Machado at SS and Jonathan Schoop at 3B in Delmarva.

Career Statistics

View our full top 50 list >>
Discuss Connor Narron in our Minors forum >>