Astros Prospect Watch: Ronnie Dawson

Ronnie Dawson has begun to show why he was deserving to be selected in the second round by the Astros in 2016.

The 6’2, 225-pound outfielder was recently promoted to Double-A Corpus Christi, and has been one of the hottest hitters on the team since being called up. The 23-year old out of Ohio State is currently not ranked as one of the Astros‘ top 30 prospects, but he is beginning to show why he should be in consideration.

Scouting Report

Dawson’s best tool is his above-average raw power. Also he has an above-average arm meaning he is suited best for right field but has experience in left and center field. His running speed is average but his aggressive on the bases make up for it. He gets good jumps and is quick in his first couple of steps meaning he can be someone who can steal double-digit bases a year. Early in his career there were questions about his swing mechanics and batting eye, however, he has improved and became a reliable hitter. He isn’t someone to be a .300 plus hitter at the major league level, but he should be able to consistently hit for power and steal bases.

Stats

He started the year at Buies Creek where he batted .247 with 10 homers and 49 RBIs, alongside 29 stolen bases. At High-A, he led the team in stolen bases and walks showing he has improved his plate discipline as well as being able to consistently showcase his speed on the bases.

Since his promotion, Dawson is batting .350 with three homers, a.395 OBP and a .700 SLG. He has taken over as the starting center fielder with the Hooks and has shown that he is capable of playing all three outfield positions at the major league Level.

Dawson has also been recently named the Texas League Player of the Week. During this past week, Dawson went 9-for-20, with one double, two home runs, seven runs scored and three RBIs. Last Saturday, he was a  triple shy of the cycle against Springfield where he had four hits in five at-bats and led the offense to a 5-2 victory.

Outlook

Dawson is not ready to contribute at the Major League roster quite yet. Personally, I believe he is still a year or two away. However, if he continues to stay consistent he may very well be promoted soon to Triple-A Fresno to finish off the year and hopefully receive a spring training invite next year.