2006 Central Illinois Collegiate League Top 10 Prospects
By John Manuel
August 29, 2006
2. Kevin Dubler, c, Dupage (Illinois State)
A freshman, Dubler wore down physically and slumped late both in the spring and in the summer offensively. He still showed a power-speed mix and defensive skills that made him the league's top position player, and he's committed to play next summer in the Cape Cod League. Dubler has solid arm strength (consistently getting the ball to second in 1.95-1.98 seconds) and uncanny accuracy with his throws, which helped him throw out 15 of 27 attempted basestealers. He's a solid receiver for his age but needs polish. Offensively, he has the raw lefthanded power to win the league's home run derby during its all-star festivities, and he's an average runner (4.2 seconds to first).
3. Bobby Stevens, ss, Twin City (Northern Illinois)
Considered an impact recruit, Stevens hit just .254 as a freshman in the spring but blossomed this summer as the CICL's top defensive shortstop and third-leading hitter. Stevens has good athletic ability and a strong swing he repeats well. He has gap power and grades out at least average, if not above average, with his running and arm. He has the arm, quickness and range for shortstop and might just need to smooth out some kinks in his footwork to remain a pro shortstop. Managers praised the Chicagoland native's toughness and approach to the game.
7. Dan Brewer, ss, Dupage (Bradley)
While not as smooth as Stevens, the athletic Brewer may have the ability to stay at shortstop as well, though Bradley used him at short, second base and center field. He improved this summer coming in and aggressively playing ground balls, rather than waiting back on them, and cut his errors significantly in the second half. He has excellent hands that work in the field and at the plate, and makes hard contact consistently. His ability to get the barrel to the ball has caused him to get too aggressive at the plate, and he needs to incorporate his body more into his swing to generate more power. A savvy player, he's an outstanding baserunner, swiping 26 bags (third-best in the league) without being caught, even though he's just an average runner.