Despite winning their division and entering the Governor’s Cup playoffs the overwhelming favorite against a very poor Gwinnett team, the Columbus Clippers were unable to repeat as Champions of the International League. Overall the season was a success for a number of the Clippers’ players, particularly ones who figure to play a key role in the Indians’ future.
MVP
Yandy Diaz was the Clippers’ overwhelming best player this season. After being called up from AA Akron after 26 games with the Rubberducks, Diaz hit Columbus like a man on fire and remained that way through the very end of the season. Diaz improved substantially at the plate in 2016 and that’s after having a very good 2015 season. In 95 games he posted a triple slash of .325/.399/.461 with a 149 wRC+. Diaz also showcased solid defensive play at 5 different positions. Third base is his natural home and could be his job in the future, but he has set himself up as a very valuable utility player should he be promoted to the big league club next season.
Future Stars
Bradley Zimmer remains the Indians’ most talented prospect, particularly after the departure of Clint Frazier after this year’s trade deadline. Zimmer is a well-rounded prospect with the ability to hit for average and power. He fields well and runs the bases well, stealing an amazing 38 bases between AA and AAA this season, not bad for a guy who is 6’5″. I believe he still has a long way to go in making more consistent contact with the ball, but his upside is undeniable. If he can begin to cut down on his rather concerning strikeout rate, he could be a star.
Under Appreciated
This pick is largely made out of bias on my part but I am still of the belief that Jesus Aguilar got the raw end of the deal with the Indians. Granted he’s not much of a big league prospect and isn’t likely to ever contribute to the team, he’s quietly put up a 30 home run season of his own in sadly his third full season in Columbus. The guy deserves his shot whether with the Indians, or more likely with another club, and the Indians should allow him the opportunity to play for someone who could use his services. He has power, I’m sure there’s a big league club out there willing to throw him out at first base with some regularity with the hope he’ll run into 15-20 home runs over a full season.
Cause for Concern
Bradley Zimmer’s strikeout rate increased fairly significantly this season. In 93 games in Akron his strikeout rate was 28.3% and it increased to 37.3% over the course of his 37 game stint in Columbus. Both numbers are high enough for concern. To put this in context, Mike Napoli, who is one of the league leaders in strikeouts, is striking out at a 30% clip. This to me is Zimmer’s biggest problem and one the Indians will certainly give him time to work out before he gets his first extended look in Cleveland.
Most Power: Jesus Aguilar
Best Bat: Yandy Diaz
Best Wheels: Bradley Zimmer
Best Glove: Giovanny Urshela
Worst Glove: Erik Gonzalez
Best Control: Ryan Merritt
Best Stuff: Shawn Armstrong
Best Chance to be an MLB Pitcher: Shawn Armstrong
Best Chance to be an MLB Hitter: Bradley Zimmer
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
