2022 Pre-Season SF Giants Prospects: 20-11

2022 Pre-Season SF Giants Prospects: 20-11

17. Brett Auerbach

Position: C/INF/OF
Age: 23
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 185 lbs.
Projected Level: Richmond (Double-A)
MLB ETA: 2023

Tool Grades: (Present/Future)

Hit 30/45 | Raw Power 50/50 | Game Power 30/45 | Speed 60/60 | Arm 50/50 | Field 50/55

PV 30 | FV 40

Auerbach has come a long way ever since getting signed by San Francisco as an undrafted free agent after the 2020 MLB Draft. After proving that he is one of the best contact hitters in the loaded San Jose squad in the first two months of the season, he then flexed his muscles when he got promoted to Eugene as he hit the most homers and stole the most bases since he got to the Emeralds’ lineup.

Versatility is the name of the game for Auerbach, and it shows on both sides of the ball. After swinging the bat with a more line-to-line approach in San Jose, Auerbach came to Eugene with a mindset of swinging with more authority and towards the air. Auerbach adjusted flawlessly, tapping to his solid raw power consistently with the expense of a lower batting average and more strikeouts. He has a solid eye at the plate, but he chases outside the zone, especially in two-strike situations.

With how well Auerbach changed his approach at the plate mid-season, his true versatility lies on the defensive side of the ball. He’s played in six positions on the field this season, showcasing both his athleticism and instincts, but he’s primarily played behind the plate and in second base. His glove and footwork are sound in every position that he plays and even though Auerbach only has solid at-best arm strength, his small stature and thick legs make him a better defender behind the plate than plenty of full-time catchers.

Auerbach projects as a utility-type, second-division regular who will likely see the field often as a defensive replacement, as a pinch-runner as he has plus speed and base stealing instincts, or as a pinch hitter. The possibilities are endless with Auerbach and if he can continue to hit with power in the coming season like what he did in Eugene while keeping his peripherals in check; he has the potential to become a first-division regular.