The Potential Tools: 55 hit, 50 power, 50 run

Strengths: Big, physical frame; average athlete; advanced feel at the plate; keen pitch ID skills and patient approach; strength throughout core; gets hips involved early; above-average bat speed; feel for contact and can barrel spin; slight lift in swing; above-average raw power; swing is more doubles and gap-to-gap oriented; chance for HR power with adjustment in overall power approach – has strength and raw power for average game power; above-average run; will play average as body matures and gains experience; reads pitchers exceptionally well; could steal double-digit bases; above-average instincts; high baseball IQ.

Weaknesses: Below-average defensive profile; below-average reads and reactions; average range at best; arm is below average; injury history on resume; limited range might force a move to first base, adding pressure on the bat.

Role Ceiling: 50; major league regular left fielder.

Risk: Low; major league ready; no projection left.

Summary: Kepler was never viewed as a top prospect throughout his minor league career. After a successful year last year, more evaluators paid attention to what the German can bring to the table. Kepler’s defensive value won’t ever be something to talk about, but he has enough athleticism to stick in left field despite his below-average arm. His defense isn’t why he’ll make it to the big leagues — it’s his potential at the plate. Kepler has an advanced feel and approach at the plate. He features above-average bat speed and the ability to drive balls all over the field. His swing and approach aren’t geared for over-the-fence power, but with a slight adjustment in those departments, and that could change since he has above-average raw power.