The Potential Tools: 80 run, 60 hit, 60 glove, 50 arm

Strengths: Elite, quick-twitch athlete; game-changing speed; quick, short strides – will show sub 3.9 run times HP-to- 1B from right side; natural feel for hitting; plus bat speed from both sides; short to ball, linear swing path with contact oriented approach; ID’s spin out of hand and is selective at the plate; quick reads/reactions at second base with soft hands – projects to be plus; high baseball IQ.

Weaknesses: Small stature; 20-grade raw power – will never factor in his game; still needs to add strength; weight transfer can happen early and get him off balance with off-speed offerings; arm may not play at shortstop position.

Role Ceiling: 60; first-division regular second base.

Risk: Extreme; limited pro experience; must hit to provide true value at second base.

Summary: Albies signed with Atlanta for $350,000 and right now, it looks to be a great signing. The small-statured natural shortstop has loud tools and a true feel for hitting, at a young age, from both sides of the plate. For his age, his pitch recognition and approach at the plate is very advanced and as he continues through the minors, his hit tool and dynamic base running ability should make him one of the better middle-infield prospects in the game. While power will never be a part of his game, he has elite speed and the glove skills to handle either middle infield position. Albies and Dansby Swanson should be a very fun middle infield combination to watch as they grow together.