Generally when a Dominican teenager make his United States debut, the organization simply just hopes the player can hold his own. Raimel Tapia proved to be a man among boys and won the Pioneer League batting title and in the process managed to keep a 29 games hitting streak going. With an easy left-handed swing, Tapia has a solid knack for making solid contact. For some players that takes years to develop.
The Rockies signed Tapia in 2010 out of the Dominican Republic for $175,000 after a workout in which he hit against major-league arms, Juan Nicasio and Esmil Rogers very well. Tapia played two seasons in the Dominican Summer League before the Rockies gave him a push and Tapia responded well, 2013 was vastly considered his coming out party. Spent the entire 2013 season at Rookie Level Grand Junction, where he led the league in bating (.357) and hits (92). Ranked second in total bases and third in extra-base hits, his 29-game hitting streak fell three games short of the league record.
Tapia possess exceptional hand-eye cordonation and does not strike out alot. Keeps his hands back and has a knack for putting the barrel on the ball, even on pitches that are out of the strike zone, with a short, left-handed stroke. Above-average runner, can play all three outfield positions. Has enough range to stay up the middle but his arm would settle well in right-field Tapia’s stock is rising quickly, at age 20 the youngster is currently ranked as the Rockies 5th best prospect.
ETA: 2017
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