Meet the Marlins Prospect: Thomas Hickman

Thomas Hickman - Outfielder - 6′1 - 175lbs - 20 years old - Bats: Left - Throws: Left

Thomas Hickman	AB	XBH	HR	SB	BB	K	AVG	OBP	SLG
2007 Jamestown	164	9	1	3	19	63	.183	.278	.256

With the 63rd overall pick in the 2006 draft, the Marlins selected outfielder Thomas Hickman. A two way player in high school, the Marlins decided he was more projectable as a hitter and pitching was scrapped from his resume. Like many lefthanded hitters, he has a smooth stroke and allows ball to travel deep before centering them. His first 175 professional at bats with the Gulf Coast League Marlins were promising as he hit .263/.377/.411. After that season, some in the Marlins organization began calling him “Baby Hermida”. Unfortunately, this year he took 2 steps backwards.

Signed for $575,000 out of Lindale HS in California, Hickman hit .183/.278/.256 in 164 at bats while in short season Jamestown. On the one hand, he again showed a strong walk rate. On the other hand, he also struck out and an astronomical pace. Making any kind of contact was an issue for Thomas, and when he did get a hit, rarely did he show any power. Not blessed with blazing speed, he probably isn’t quick enough to man centerfield. Because of his strong arm, to go along with promising power, he could develop into a real good rightfielder. These things were also said about the Marlins current rightfielder, Jeremy Hermida.

Because of his youth and his walk rate, there is still much promise for Hickman as scouts believe as he matures and gains more muscle, he will show significant gap and homerun power. He has a good confidence about him and the Marlins love his makeup. Many believe he will be a prototype 2 hole hitter in the majors. Just 20 years old, Thomas should spend the season in low-A Greensboro in 2008.

2008 Update: Like he was projected, he is in low-A Greensboro and is hitting .267/.343/.533 with 2 homeruns in 30 at bats. Sporting a nice 4 walk to 6 strikeout ratio.