By David Saltzer, AngelsWin.com Senior Writer
One of the fastest rising stars in the Angels organization is Jean Segura. He has all the tools—speed, power, defense, plate discipline, and an arm. Segura has confidence in his abilities and the strong desire to be a Major League player.
Initially a 2B, the Angels moved Segura to SS this year in order to open up more possibilities for him to make the Major League club. Segura took to the new position like a duck takes to water. Watching him in the home opener this year, Segura made two standout plays. Watching him again in the post season, he was regularly making Major League plays.
What Segura hasn’t had in his professional career has been the best of health. Injuries have cost him in almost every season since signing as a 17 year-old out of the Dominican Republic. Most of his injuries have been fluke injuries—broken fingers, etc. This year, though, it was a hamstring injury that cost him most of the season. After initially injuring it, Segura tried to come back in the middle of the season. Unfortunately, it flared up again, and he barely made it back in time for the post season.
When healthy, Segura showed why he is such a rising star this year. In 44 games with the 66ers, Segura stole 18 bases and 16 extra-base hits. He scored 26 runs and drove in 21. Those numbers are right in line with his 2010 performance, where he stole 54 bases and had 46 extra-base hits including 12 triples and 10 HRs.
Going into the Cal League playoffs, AngelsWin.com talked with Jean Segura to find out about his move to SS, his performance on the year, and his offseason plans.
Click below to watch the interview.