Anthony Hewitt – Philadelphia Phillies SS/OF

H/W: 6-1 195 lb. B/T: R/R DOB: 4/27/89

Hewitt's stock rose considerably prior to the 2008 draft as scouts witnessed his exciting assortment of tools. Hewitt was drafted 24th overall by the Phillies and signed quickly. Philadelphia sent him to their GCL affiliate where he struggled in 33 games hitting just .195 with 1 HR 17 RBI 2 SB and a raw 7 BB/55 K ratio. Hewitt has as much athleticism as anyone in the draft and his strength shows promise of future power development as he matures and refines his skills. Defensively, Hewitt has some good tools but they profile better in the OF than at SS. His good range and strong arm should play well in CF. The biggest caveat with Hewitt is his extreme rawness. He played ball in the northeast against lesser competition. Hewitt lacks the plate discipline and overall fluidity to his game that found in other 1st round prospects. This makes Hewitt a classic example of a high risk, high upside prospect that could either catch fire or flame out in future seasons.

2009 Projection: The Phillies have a glut of athletic and projectible OF talents in their system. This allows them to take their time developing Hewitt into an MLB player. Hewitt should spend time at extended spring training before joining the Phillies at short season Williamsport in June. Keep an eye on his BB/K numbers and his extra base hits. Also watch to see if the Phillies try to develop him as a SS. With the depth of OF talent in Philiadelphia's farm system, Hewitt's ability to stay at SS will increase the odds of him progressing to Philadelphia. Regardless of his position, he is a long way from Citizen's Bank Ballpark.