Former top prospect now mashing for the Rockies
Two years removed from being the Cleveland Guardians' top prospect, Nolan Jones is making the most of his first season as a member of the Colorado Rockies.
Acquired in a trade this offseason, Jones spent the beginning of the 2023 season in Triple-A where he posted a .356 average with 12 home runs and 42 RBI in only 39 games.
After being called up in late May all Jones has done is hit and provided the Rockies with versatility seeing time in both right and left field as well as first base. With four home runs and four stolen bases to go along with a .339 average in his 18 MLB games this season, Jones is showing why he was a second-round draft pick and a former top prospect.
He has also provided many memorable highlights in such a short time in Colorado including this massive 472-foot walk-off home run.
If the walk-off wasn't enough to prove his legit power he hit one 483 feet just a few days before, making him the only player in the majors with two home runs over 470 feet in 2023.
The benefit of playing in one of the most hitter-friendly parks in baseball is another reason that this offensive outburst has a chance to be a legit major league hitter.
He has also managed to flash the leather, robbing a potential go-ahead home run versus the Red Sox on June 12. Drafted as a third baseman, Jones has shown the athleticism to make the transition to the outfield which has allowed him more playing time.
While the sample size is small, Jones has always had the talent to be a big-time player. If he is able to put it all together he could be the next offensive juggernaut to call Coors Field home.
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