Matt den Dekker, CF

Height: 6’1”
Weight: 210 lbs.
Age: 26
Bats/Throws: left/left

In only his first game since being recalled from AAA Las Vegas, Outfield prospect Matt den Dekker has already made a strong impression. Den Dekker went 1-5 at the plate, but he managed to save two runs with his defense. He robbed Phillies slugger Ryan Howard of a home run with an incredible leaping catch in the bottom of the second inning, and he also gunned down Reid Brignac at home plate to prevent another run.

This type of defensive performance is not  uncommon for den Dekker. With excellent range in center field, scouts have always raved about his defense. Baseball America has rated him as the Mets best defensive outfielder in the entire system for three consecutive seasons.

Even though he is known mostly for his glove, he also possesses  some upside on offense. While Den Dekker is batting just .269 with four HR’s and 21 RBI for Las Vegas, he has exhibited an intriguing combination of power and speed throughout his minor league career. In 2011 and 2012, den Dekker smashed  17 HR’s and stole over 20 bases each season.

Outlook: den Dekker has a lot of talent, but he also carries significant risk. den Dekker has struck out over 150 times in fewer than 140 games during 2011 and 2012 seasons, so he has not proven that he can make consistent contact. Since he will face vastly superior pitching in the majors, many fear that he could be overpowered at the games’ highest level. However, with his athleticism and defensive skills, he deserves a chance to prove  himself.  Other Mets options at the moment such as Chris Young and Bobby Abreu are underwhelming, so it looks like den Dekker will finally receive this opportunity.

(Photo Credit: David Conde/MMN)