Chris Nash

Chris Nash - First Baseman
Age: 21 Height: 6'5" Weight: 230 Bats: Right Throws: Right

	AVG	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	BB	K	SB	OBP	SLG	OPS
2007 GCL/Mahoning	.303	63	228	32	69	20	1	3	33	24	53	4	.367	.439	.806
Career	.303	63	228	32	69	20	1	3	33	24	53	4	.367	.439	.806

History: The Indians selected Nash in the 24th round of the 2006 Draft out of Johnson County Community College (KS). Last year was his first professional season as he did not play in 2006 after signing because he was hurt when the Indians signed him.

Strengths & Opportunities: Nash came out last year and had a really good extended spring, played well in the Gulf Coast League and Mahoning Valley, and did really well in the instructional league this offseason. He is a huge first baseman who should continue to fill out as he matures. His big frame, strength, and size at 6'5" 230 at 21 years of age make him very projectable to be a big power hitter. Last year, in 238 at bats he only hit three home runs, but he piled up 20 doubles which is a clear sign that the power is there and may be on the verge of emerging as he matures and becomes more accustomed to the feel of wood bats.

Nash is an intelligent kid who handles himself really well and is a hard worker. Even with his enormous size, Nash is very athletic and moves very well around the bag at first base. He made a lot of progress in the instructional league and during the year at first base and has become a solid defender at the position.

One problem Nash had last year was not getting good leverage with his legs or using his lower half really well. Once he learns how to use his lower half and get better leverage with his front side and not come off the ball, we could see a power explosion from him. He is also still working on staying on breaking balls and using the whole field since he still likes to pull the ball. The Indians believe he can be a power hitter, but they will let it come naturally and not force him into one. In the meantime, the focus is on Nash learning to get his pitch and hitting it where it came from. The Indians will also continue instruction with him on plate discipline, pitch recognition, as well as staying on and driving through the ball.

Outlook: After a very good debut season last year, Nash has put himself in a position where he has been noticed and for people to look at him. His progression this year should be interesting. He is one of the top candidates to have a breakout campaign in 2008, and he will likely start the year in Lake County.

Video: Nash at the plate.

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