In Pursuit of MLB's Future
                                                      Andrew Lambo

                                By: Joshua Fischman

 

July 18, 2008 - Week 1: The Future of MLB

Fresh off of an exhilarating display by Josh Hamilton in the Home Run Derby and a thrilling 15-inning All-Star battle, my baseball brain is concentrated elsewhere. In the midst of intriguing divisional races in virtually every division, the present state of Major League Baseball is not on my mind. Instead, the future of the league holds dominion over my thoughts. I am especially excited about seeing five players in the Big Show in the next few years. For the next five weeks, I will bring you a new player each week.

MLB Future Profile: Andrew Lambo

Background:

Despite his obvious baseball abilities, MLB general managers were initially scared away by what they perceived to be a flippant attitude from Lambo. They also perceived disciplinary problems and character issues. As a result, the first-round talent dropped to the fourth round of the 2007 draft, where the Los Angeles Dodgers were more than happy to select him. Ever since then, the only problems Lambo has caused have been for the opposing team. In his professional debut last season, Lambo took the Gulf Coast League by storm, hitting .343 over the course of 54 games and knocking in 32 runs. This season, Lambo is hitting nearly .300 and ranks second in RBI in the Low-A Midwest League (with 62). He also ranks second in that league in total bases and stands among the league leaders in hits and doubles.

Why I want to see Lambo in MLB:

1. I went to high school with Lambo for a couple of years and played baseball with him. Despite the bad rap that he has been tagged with, the Lambino is a nice guy and he has one of the best work ethics I have seen.

2. I am a native of Los Angeles and a huge Dodgers fan. If Lambo reaches the majors, it will mean great things for the ballclub.

3. This guy can rake; as evidenced by the numbers he has put up at Low-A over the course of the last two seasons. Not even 20 years old yet and swinging the way he has been, I can't wait to see how the lefty will fare in the Majors. Many scouts have compared his game to James Loney. But Lambo projects to have more power in the Bigs.

Accolades:

2007 Los Angeles Dodgers Organizational Rookie of the Year (former winners include Chad Billingsley, Clayton Kershaw & James Loney)
Starter, LF, 2008 Midwest League All-Star Game (Lambo went 1-3 with an RBI)

Obstacles to the Major Leagues:

In 89 games this season, Lambo has struck out 81 times. If he is going to reach the Major Leagues, it is vital that he cuts down on his strikeouts.

Estimated Time of Arrival:

Andrew Lambo is on track to play his first game in the Major Leagues in 2010. Although Lambo has played the outfield well in his MiLB career, he may eventually be moved to first base.

 

 

 

 

 

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