Several Indians Noted In BA Best Tools

(from the Indians)

Baseball America revealed their 2009 Mid-Season Best Tools at the threefull season levels. Below are current Indians who were recognized intheir respective leagues (included are those acquired via trade):

Triple-A

Best Strike Zone Judgment (IL) - OF Michael Brantley
He has struck outonly 43 times in 477 plate appearances and has struck out just three times over his last 27 games.

Best Reliever (PCL) - RHP Jess Todd
Went 4-2 with a 2.20ERA in 41 games and led the PCL with 24 saves before the trade (49.0 IP, 39 H, 12 ER, 59 K).

Best Manager Prospect (IL) - Torey Lovullo

Double-A

Best Strike Zone Judgment (EL) - CA Carlos Santana
Has registered only 68K in 432 PA and is 2nd in the league with 71 BB and tied for 5th among all AA hitters.

Fastest Baserunner (EL) - OF Jose Costanza
He is second in the leaguewith 32 stolen bases in 41 attempts.

Best Reliever (EL) - RHP Vinnie Pestano
Converted 24 saves in 27opportunities before landing on the DL. Carries a 2.86 ERA (24.2 IP, 30 H, 11 R/ER, .234avg).

Best Manager Prospect (EL) - Mike Sarbaugh

Class A

Best Batting Prospect (CAR) - Lonnie Chisenhall
He was hitting .276(107-388) with 26 2B, 2 3B, 18 HR, 79 RBI with 59 R before beingpromoted. Has not gone hitless in 3 straight games all season. Has 4grand slams on the year.

Best Strike Zone Judgment (CAR) - INF Cord Phelps
Leads the Carolina League with 76 BB (T5th/MiLB) and is fourth with a .379OBP. In 472 PA, has struck out only 74 times.

Best Defensive 2B (CAR) - INF Cord Phelps
Has committed only three errors on the season and has a 28 game errorless streak.

Best Fastball (SAL) - RHP Jason Knapp
Had 111K in 85.0IP for Lakewood before the trade. Held opponents to a .208 avg (63-303).

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