Gordon’s bloodlines run strong with father, Tom “Flash “Gordon enjoying a long and successful MLB career in both starting and relief roles, and brother Dee already a two-time all-star and last year’s N.L.. batting champ (.333). As an amateur, Nick was viewed as a sound player with a high floor thanks to a lefty swing that’s geared to contact, and a high probability that he would stick as an up-the-middle defender, but he had a limited ceiling due to his lack of impact speed or power. He’s been very much that player thus far as a professional, though evaluators are being forced to reconsider whether his offensive upside was previously underrated.

Through his first 13 games at Fort Myers, Gordon has come out attacking the ball, slashing .322/.344/.492 over his first 61 PAs. He has a smooth stroke that produces hard, line drive contact, and shows enough feel to drive the ball the other way and work the gaps. There’s developing strength in the swing, as well, as Gordon continues to fill out his frame, appearing to sit around 15 pounds heavier than his listed weight of 160.

At present, the profile is that of a potential #2 hitter with solid contact skills and an ability to hit for average and regularly put the ball in play with authority. He’s unlikely to be a home run threat at the upper levels, but should wear out the gaps if pitchers give him too much to work with over the white. Defensively, Gordon boasts an easy plus arm and confident actions, making him a natural fit for shortstop long term. He’ll play all of 2016 as a 20-year-old, and he’s making steady progress towards a major league debut perhaps as early as late 2017 – certainly by the following summer. –Nick J. Faleris