Zach Borenstein has been on a complete tear this season for the Angels High-A ball affiliate, the Inland Empire 66ers. The 22-year-old outfielder just recently blasted his 12th home-run of the season, putting him atop the list of home-run leaders in the California League. His .690 slugging pct. is also good for 1st in all of High-A ball. In 2012, Borenstein went largely unnoticed even though he put up a .824 OPS in the pitcher-friendly Midwest League. Borenstein bats from the left-side and although his swing can become long at times, he produces an incredible amount of torque. Defensively, Borenstein makes the routine plays and covers a decent amount of ground. Zach has average speed and runs the bases well enough to steal 15-20 bases down the road.
With players such as Randal Grichuk, Travis Witherspoon, Peter Bourjos, Kole Calhoun and Mike Trout ahead of him on the depth chart, and Josh Hamilton signed for 4 more years after this one, it will be tough for Borenstein to make his way into the Angels' plans any time soon. That said, if his power continues to wow on-lookers, Borenstein who's played multiple positions in the infield and outfield may land in Anaheim if a spot because open via an injury or trade.
Check out our recent interview with Zach Borenstein, the Angels organization leader in home runs and slugging pct.