http://m.mlb.com/prospects/2016?list=cle
Yu-Cheng Chang | Rank: 12 (Preseason: 13)
Team: Lynchburg Hillcats (A Adv)
ETA: 2018
Position: SS
Age: 20 DOB: 08/18/1995
Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 1" Weight: 175 lb.
Signed: June 3, 2013 - CLE
Scouting Grades: Hit: 45 | Power: 50 | Run: 55 | Arm: 50 | Field: 45 |
Overall: 45
Chang had a decorated career in Taiwan and was viewed as one of the premier
amateur free agents in Asia when he signed with the Indians for $500,000 in
June 2013. He opened eyes in his pro debut, hitting a robust .346/.420/.566
with six home runs in 42 games in the Rookie-level Arizona League, made his
full-season debut at age 19 the following year, and then became a mid-season
All-Star with Class A Advanced Lynchburg in 2016.
Chang lacks a standout tool but can do a little bit of everything. He has a
quick bat from the right side and knows how to manipulate the barrel, and his
line-to-line approach is impressive given his age. He has surprising strength
to his projectable frame that helps him generate above-average raw power, and
some scouts believe he'll tap into it more consistently as he fills out and
gains experience against full-season pitching.
Chang was signed as a shortstop, but he also played third base during his
professional debut in the Arizona League. He showed better range last season
after moving to shortstop full time, though, like so many young defenders, he
also committed quite a few errors. His average arm isn't a clean fit at the
position, but it's strong enough to allow him to make all the routine plays.
The Indians will continue to develop him as a shortstop, where his promising
bat holds the most value.