Carlos Avila: Rookie Sensation

In one short year, Carlos Avila, the number one draft choice for the San Diego Hops in June, 2018, has been the AAA player of the week once, and named to the AAA All-Star team. Now, he has emerged as a savior in San Diego, replacing the injured star, Kyle Reader, in the outfield and at the plate. His stellar rise to prominence is no accident. He is a confident young man, his skills honed in an excellent college career. However, nobody expected his ability to handle major league pitching would be this swift.

A quick look at his stats:
In his first forty games, he has batted 166 times, mashing 52 hits, including five doubles and five home-runs. He has crossed the plate 17 times, while driving in 24. His OPS stands a lick over .800.

In the field, he has split time between third base and center field, with a bit more pressure showing with a ZER in slight negatives at both positions. The very bright Ohio native is well aware of his shortcomings, and can be seen before every game taking extra infield and outfield practice.

There is no doubt that San Diego would have dropped out of contention in a surprising September finish had Avila not been brought up to join Justin Davis, Badry Makaev and Terrence Sepkiechler atop the Hops' order.

Carlos Avila, CF/3b, San Diego Hops #29, Corel Painter x3; July 1, 2014