Written by Greg Fertel | 27 December 2009

John Manuel gives us his personal top 20 prospects(h/t IIATMS), and ranks Jesus Montero fifth, behind Strasburg, Heyward, Stanton, and Jennings. Here's what he has to say about the young guy:

5. Jesus Montero, C/DH, Yankees

Why he's here:The minors' best hitter, Montero gets compared to Mike Piazzaas a catcher whose hitting tools far outstrip his defense. The Yankees don't see him as Jorge Posada's heir because his defense is on par with Piazza's or worse.

What he'll be:Because he's likely to move out from behind the plate, Montero should be a first baseman or DH primarily. Other ex-catchers with premium bats such as Paul Konerkoand Carlos Delgado leap to mind.

When he arrives:New York's offseason moves will dictate whether Montero spends all season at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre or moves up to the big leagues as a part-time catcher and DH.

 

Pretty standard Montero analysis here. Hits well, can't catch. We'll just have to wait and see what the future holds for young Jesus.

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