Written By: Drake Mann
Follow him on Twitter: @DrakeMann4
Follow Prospects Worldwide on Twitter: @ProspectsWorldW
This latest Scouting Report takes an in-depth look at Nolan Gorman of the St. Louis Cardinals who has immense power potential and is one of the Cardinals more promising position player prospects in the system. While the underwhelming contact tool may be an eye-opener to some individuals, there’s still plenty to like with this up-and-coming prospect.
The Arizona product is currently ranked 2nd in our latest 2020 St. Louis Cardinals Top 20 Ranks. When fully developed Nolan Gorman and Dylan Carlson are going to form a nice combo in the middle of the lineup for the Cardinals.
Video Breakdown
Below is a video from Spring Training 2020, as you can hear from the video, the sound that comes off of Gorman’s bat is amazing. His use of the lower half will help carry his power potential and will lead to more home run power. He relies heavily on the gaps and will continue having a high slugging percentage through his time in the minors.
The Cardinals obviously believe in the power of Gorman and have made a few slight changes to his stance. As this gif shows, Gorman has a slightly higher leg kick for power and is keeping his mechanics compact. While driving his hips to create excellent torque in his swing. One more part to notice is, on the left, Gorman has his hands closer to his body. He already has nice bat speed but this allows him to be quicker to the ball and keep his hands inside the ball at the same time.
One last thought to note is Gorman’s ability to hit for power to all fields, just take a look at this spray chart and pay close attention to the amount of extra base hits he has to the opposite way.
Scouting Report Summary
Nolan Gorman is an exciting young prospect for the Cardinals, his power potential can’t be overlooked. At 20-years-old there’s still plenty of time to develop his game. There’s some uncertainty of where he fits long term with Nolan Arenado now patrolling third base for the Cardinals. He’s a hard worker and is willing to change positions to become the player the Cardinals know he can be. I could realistically see him getting some time at second base or a corner outfield spot, where his arm profiles better. I know many fans want to see Gorman up in 2021 but Gorman needs more time in the minors in order for him to become a more complete player. Expect to see him in 2022 at some time.
Click HERE to read the Cardinals 2020 Top 20 Prospects
Click HERE to find the rest of our Prospect Scouting Reports just like this!
Follow us on Twitter: @ProspectsWorldW
SUBSCRIBE To our YouTube channel! For amateur and Minor League prospects
