P.J. Maigi, Springfield Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals ‘ prospect Victor Scott II has had an impressive season in the Cardinals minor league system so far. The speedster would have fit right in during the Whitey-ball era. Scott set a goal this season of 100 stolen bases, and he just might make it happen. Currently, he is on pace for 96 stolen bases.
Cardinals Prospect Scott II is Burning up the Basepaths
The Cardinals drafted him in the fifth round of the 2022 draft, and he has been off and running ever since. He spent his first season after the draft at Palm Beach, stealing 13 bases in 31 games. He continued his base stealing rampage at Single-A Peoria this season, stealing 50 bases in 66 games before being promoted to Double-A Springfield. The promotion hasn’t slowed him down either, stealing nine bases in eighteen games so far.
Additionally, the Cardinals prospect Scott has graded well on defense, shown good bat to ball skills, and an ability to get on base. In 115 minor league games played, he has a respectable .360 on base percentage and a batting average of .277. Scott’s ability to get on base combined with his tremendous speed is a dangerous combination. It makes him an excellent option to set the table in front of the middle of the line-up.
Scott Showcases Speed at Futures Game
Cardinals’ prospects Scott and Tink Hence were chosen to represent the Cardinals in the 2023 Futures Game that took place All-Star weekend. Scott made his presence felt as soon as the opportunity arose.
The fleet footed outfielder entered the game in the fifth inning as the designated hitter. The lefty got a low fastball and hit a sharp line drive to centerfield for a single, then the real fun started. He stole second base and third base before San Diego Padres’ prospect Jackson Merrill finished his at-bat. It seemed as though the announcers were barely able to get a word in before Scott was standing at third base. Undoubtedly, the performance caught the attention of fans as well as other organizations.
Speed Never Slumps
Scott’s skill set is reminiscent of the players from the Whitey-ball era. He showcases excellent defense combined with contact hitting and good plate discipline, all while causing chaos on the basepaths. This style of play has been missing at the major league level for some time now. However, with the new rule changes, players like Scott are more likely to find a spot on major league rosters.
The stolen base has returned as a viable weapon, and Scott is showing that he can fill that role and then some. Players like him make the game more exciting to watch and that’s something baseball sorely needs. Hopefully, he will continue his rise through the minors and will be able to make an impact on the big league roster sooner than later.
