Prospect Nation 2013: #8 SS Roman Quinn

Selected in the 2nd round of the 2011 draft out of Port St. Joe High School, speedster Roman Quinn was immediately a prospect that many thought would be on a fast track upward in the Phillies system.

The extremely athletic 5-foot-10 170-pounder is praised for his adaptability and has shown considerable improvement during his time in the professional ranks.

Quinn signed fairly late after being drafted and did not play in an official game in 2011.  He did, however, spend time with the Gulf Coast League team late in their season and played with the Florida Instructional League team following the regular season.  He made his official pro debut in 2012 with the short-season A level Williamsport Crosscutters.  There, Quinn tallied a .281 average with nine doubles, a league-leading 11 triples, one home run and 23 RBI while swiping 30 bases in 36 chances.

Phillies executives were very pleased with his progress last year.  According to Joe Jordan, the Phils’ director of player development, “the sky is the limit” for Quinn.  Even his teammates are excited by his skills, as players will often remark about his noteworthy quickness.

On the bases, the 19-year-old is among the fastest players in the minor leagues.  Look for Quinn, who is a native of Port St. Joe, FL, to burn up the base paths in the Class A South Atlantic League with Lakewood in 2013, as a constant top-of-the-order threat, possessing the type of speed that could earn him a hit even on the most routine ground balls.

At the plate, Quinn, a natural righty, displays gap power from both sides and is still developing his ability to switch-hit.  Quinn has also worked steadily on improving his bunting ability, which could be a big tool for him going forward.

Defensively, Quinn has a strong arm and showed considerable improvement with Williamsport, manning shortstop on an everyday basis for the first time.  As he gets more time at the position, Quinn, who has strong range, will improve his technique, reflexes and his hands.  Scouts say Quinn’s future may be in centerfield, where he spent time in high school.

In all, Quinn has the raw tools to potentially be an impact player in the big leagues one day and should be a huge draw for Lakewood in the coming season.