ON Top 50 Prospects 2012 – #43: Michael Ohlman

Background

Michael Ohlman was drafted by the Orioles in the 11th round of the 2009 draft out of Lakewood Ranch HS (Florida). He made his pro debut in the GCL shortly after signing and registered 11 at-bats.

Ohlman’s struggled through what was a rough 2010. He opened the year with the Shorebirds, but suffered from the yips and was sent back to extended spring training. After a short stay in extended, Ohlman was sent to Bluefield. He returned to Delmarva to open 2011.

Scouting Report

Don: Ohlman is having a difficult transition to professional baseball. His pitch recognition and approach at the plate are posing difficulties from him advancing in his third professional season.

He still has trouble when facing off-speed offerings and is not maintaining enough contact to allow his raw power to play in games.

Ohlman is slated to start the 2012 season at Delmarva.

Defensively, Ohlman’s game has not improved to where I thought he should be at this stage of his career.  His setup and footwork are not fluid, leaving holes in his defense and leading to blocking issues.

He continues to set up too early for my tastes and leaves his pitchers exposed.  He is athletic enough to handle staying behind the plate, but he may have to be moved off in order to allow his strong arm to play at 3B.

Ohlman has a bag of tools with an above average arm and 5 o’Clock power at this stage.  He is a guy where the light can come on and the game finally slows down for him, and it just becomes a simple game of pitch and catch.  I think if one side of his game takes a step in the right direction the other parts might fall in place.

Future

Ohlman is slated to start the 2012 season at Delmarva. With Gabriel Lino, Adam Davis, Riley Hornback, Cameron Edman, and Tanner Murphy nipping on his heels, his ability to take the next step and improve his game really makes 2012 a “make or break” season.

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