7th RD pick Caleb Joseph

[rhall]

Here's some info on Caleb Joseph, catcher from Lipscomb University:

(Source = PGCrosschecker)

SCOUTING REPORT (3/1): Joseph topped Lipscomb in average (.335), homers (8) and RBIs (48) a year ago while leading the Atlantic Sun Conference with 25 doubles. Though he went to the league as a temporary player, hit just .256-1-14 overall, and split his time between two teams and the outfield and behind the plate, Joseph was selected to play in the Cape Cod League all-star game last summer. Joseph is one of the most athletic catchers in the college ranks with sound hands and feet, though he may need to shorten his arm swing to remain a catcher. He has excellent hands to hit, which could lead to a breakout year from a power standpoint this season and above-average power in the future. Joseph was more of a speed player than a power hitter coming out of high school, but catching has taken a toll on his speed (he’s gone from a 6.8 runner in the 60, to 7.3).—ALLAN SIMPSON

UPDATE (5/15): Just like he did in 2007, Joseph led Lipscomb in batting (.345), homers (14) and RBIs (53) as the Bisons entered the Atlantic Sun tournament as the conference’s No. 1 seed. He hit with more power this season, as predicted, and took a special liking to low, inside fastballs. His ability to hit a breaking ball, though, was more problematic. Joseph spent most of the spring behind the plate, but scouts are split whether he’ll be able to handle that position in pro ball. He has soft hands, but his arm strength and receiving skills are just marginal. His superior athletic ability will enable him to play a number of positions and there is a chance he will end up in the infield—possibly at third base, but more likely second. His bat would also play in left field.—AS

Here are his end of the season numbers according to Lipscomb's website:

Player                 AVG  GP-GS    AB   R   H  2B  3B  HR RBI   TB  SLG%  BB HBP  SO GDP   OB%  SF  SH  SB-ATT   PO   A   E  FLD%Caleb Joseph........  .342  63-63   260  54  89  20   0  17  61  160  .615  26   5  35   1  .404   6   1   7-8    392  83   9  .981 

[Big Mac]

His numbers look pretty good. If he can end up playing second base, like the article suggests, he might end up being a decent prospect.

[bluehens45]

I agree its nice to see the increase in power. Would be great if he can play 2B.