ON Top 50 Prospects 2013 – #43: Wynston Sawyer

Background

Sawyer posted a .608 OPS in 2012, but his season line doesn’t tell the full story.

Wynston Sawyer signed to an over-slot bonus of $300,000 as the Orioles’ 2010 eighth round draft pick. He was drafted as a catcher but played both there and at first base throughout 2012.

Sawyer posted a .608 OPS in 2012, but his season line doesn’t tell the full story. He posted a .699 OPS in the second half of the season with 17 walks and 19 strikeouts. A number of people who watched him play in the second half saw notable improvements in his game.

Scouting Report

After Gabriel Lino was traded to the Phillies, Sawyer began to receive more time behind the plate. His footwork still needs improvement and he does struggle with passed balls, but both can improve with time. His arm strength is a tick above-average and he’s athletic enough to stick at catcher with proper coaching and repetitions.

Sawyer does have raw power but currently it does not show up in game. He has a good eye at the plate and his hit tool is above-average. He also has a strong work ethic.

Future

Sawyer has the tools you look for in a catcher, but is still raw and fairly young. Although he has advanced one level each season throughout his minor league career, he is most likely headed back to Delmarva to start 2013.

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Career Statistics

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