Tools that Stick and Missing Links: How Do Prospects Level Up?

A trait-centered analysis of prospect development

In prospect discourse, a lot of folks (ourselves included) say things like, “If this guy improves his strikeout rate, he’ll be a real threat at the plate.” We don’t often stop to consider carefully, however, whether said guy has a real shot to better his discipline, work on his K-rate, or do whatever optimistic scouts are hoping for. When assessing a pl…