Red Sox Top Ten Prospects: No. 8 2B/SS Derrik Gibson

Drafted: 2nd Round, 2008 (Seaford HS, Seaford, DE)

Height: 6′1″; Weight: 170 lbs

Born: December 5, 1989

Most lists have both OF Reymond Fuentes and SS Jose Iglesias ranked higher, but I think Gibson has the greater potential to be a two-way contributor. Fuentes looks stronger on offense, while Iglesias should be a defensive standout… but it appears Gibson has the potential to do both.

The ‘08 Delaware High School Player of the Year turned down a scholarship to The University of North Carolina to sign with the Red Sox ($600,000). While some pundits were critical of his performance last spring, the fact of the matter is his underlying skill sets are fantastic.

He is a fundamentally sound ballplayer, with a superior makeup, and outstanding instincts. He displays excellent (swing) mechanics and command of the strike zone. He is extremely patient at the plate. He was the franchise’s 'Basestealer of the Year'… his plus-plus speed that will enable him to provide significant contributions at the plate and in the field. It is likely that he’ll eventually add some bulk to his frame and be capable of hitting ten to fifteen home runs.

Due to a hitch in his (throwing) mechanics and average arm strength, he will almost-certainly move to second base, where he should become an elite defensive player. He has great footwork, exceptional range and an accurate arm. His throwing has been called ‘kerky-jerky’.

Gibson is scheduled to start the year at Lo-A Greenville. Baseball America magazine declared that he may be on the verge of having a breakout season.