5. Reese Havens, Second Base, Bats: L, Throws: R, Age: 25, ETA: 2012
Reese Havens has remained a more enigmatic prospect in the Mets system. When the Mets drafted him with the 22nd overall pick in 2008, the organization expected to bring in a durable position player skilled in different areas around the diamond.
Havens is an accomplished catcher. He came into the Mets organization with the intent of working out at shortstop but has instead found a home at second base, putting him in the best position possible to give him a shot at the Mets Major League infield. At least he has finally settled down after spending some time bouncing around the diamon.
In terms of durability, Havens has been hampered, much like former Mets top prospects Fernando Martinez, and more recently Jenrry Mejia. In over three seasons, Havens has appeared in a mere 213 games, simply not enough time for him to display his potential.
On the other hand, Havens’ production hasn’t been stagnant. Although his last several years in the Mets system has been marred by injury, he has been working on lowering his strikeout rate and upping his on-base percentage to a more consistent level.
Basically, he has been well-regarded for his play when healthy. Otherwise he has gone unnoticed. A largely healthy 2012 means that Havens will climb up the Mets middle infield ladder fairly rapidly. It would be fair to say that he’ll definitely be a September call-up if he stays on the field all year.
In terms of skill, Havens’ power stroke has been a strong suit. In a full season, Havens has double digit home run potential, and with work he could easily crack 20 in a season. He’ll turn into an extra base hit machine in time. He does tend to strike out frequently, but not unreasonably so.
His ability to slap the ball around for extra bases should help him work his way into a role towards the top of the batting order. He could figure best as a number two hitter.
I was reluctant to let Havens remain this high because his battle with injuries has continued. He’s been held from several workouts of late due to back stiffness. If all goes well for Havens, this back problem won’t snowball into anything more and he can play to his full potential all year justifying his worth as a prospect..
10. Matt Den Dekker, Outfield, Bats: L, Throws: L, Age: 24, ETA: 2013
9. Jordany Valdespin, Middle Infield, Bats: L, Throws: R, Age: 24, ETA: 2012
8. Cesar Puello, Outfield, Bats: R, Throws: R, Age: 20, ETA: 2013
7. Kirk Nieuwenhuis, Outfield, Bats: L, Throws: R, Age: 24, ETA: 2012
6. Wilmer Flores, Third Base, Bats: R, Throws: R, Age: 20, ETA: 2014
5. Reese Havens, Second Base, Bats: L, Throws: R, Age 25, ETA: 2012
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