When it comes to top outfielder prospects, the term “five-tool player” is thrown around liberally. The five tools mentioned are: speed, hitting for contact, hitting for power, a strong throwing arm and a quality glove. Oftentimes the moniker fades away as players focus exclusively on certain aspects, notably power, and neglect some of the others. Such is not the case for the Ole Miss outfielder that not only showed all five tools, but did so as a freshman in 2014, J.B. Woodman.
The Orlando, Florida native was highly-touted coming out of Edgewater High School after he was named second-team All-American by Baseball America and drafted by the New York Mets. His high school career saw not only success in the statistical department, hitting .575 as a junior, but also as a leader, helping the team to its first-ever state semifinals appearance. Hope was high for the 6’2, 208 Lb. outfielder and he delivered right away.
Woodman showed an immediate knack for making both the smart play and the big play in the outfield for Ole Miss. His extensive range paired with his rocket arm made him a lethal combination beside Auston Bousfield. In addition to three assists on the year, his .988 fielding percentage led all Rebel outfielders.
Not only did he showcase his fielding abilities, Woodman handled the bat well. He was fifth on the team, fourth among regular starters, with a .298 batting average. Coupled with his high average was a pop of power as he led the team’s freshmen in doubles (10), home runs (two, tied with Colby Bortles), and led everyone with three triples. After he got on base he proved to be a threat to take the extra bag, snatching 10 steals on the season, good for third on the team.
Despite being overshadowed by the likes of Bousfield, Will Allen, Austin Anderson and Sikes Orvis by many onlookers, Woodman was recognized by Louisville Slugger as a Freshman All-American. Now that a lot of those big bats are gone, sans Orvis, Woodman will be expected to carry a heavier load in 2015. Fortunately for the Rebels, he thrives on the spotlight as shown by his .325 average in SEC play last year. It’s safe to say Rebel fans should expect big things from the sophomore in 2015.
Recapping the list thus far:
18. Kyle Watson, INF
16. Wyatt Short, LHP
14. Connor Cloyd, OF
13. Holt Perdzock, C
4. J.B. Woodman, OF
Michael Quirk is a HottyToddy.com staff reporter and can be reached at michael.quirk@hottytoddy.com.
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