Malcom Nunez is coming into his own with Indianapolis
Nunez gaining experience in Triple-A with Indianapolis
When looking at Malcom Nunez and his time at Triple-A, he feels like a grizzled veteran.
However, it’s also easy to overlook that he’s only 23 and already has nearly 700 plate appearances at the level.
While Nunez had a solid April, May and June saw him struggle and plate to a .234 batting average with 34 strikeouts and only eight extra-base hits.
As many young players do when it clicks, he came out of nowhere and claimed Indianapolis’ July Player of the Month award. In July, he hit .329 with nine extra-base hits and a .891 OPS.
For Indianapolis hitting coach Eric Munson, he also requires a reminder that Nunez is still maturing at the dish in their second season working together.
“He’s young,” Munson said. “With a lot of these guys, we have to remind ourselves of their age. Players are going to go in and out. They’re going to get hot and cold. They’re still learning themselves and learning approach. At this level and the big leagues, that is the key.”
As Munson said, another item that young hitters can struggle with is maintaining consistent success. Thus far, that has not been an issue. In eight August games, Nunez has a double and a homer, but also his lowest strikeout rate of the season.
Outside of the numbers, Munson is excited by what he’s seen from Nunez and is excited about what the future holds.
“Overall, the bat and the move he makes, he’s one of those guys you can’t mess up because it’s a really good move,” Munson said. “He’s got things you can’t teach. His hands are really good, and he’s quick. There’s a lot of makings to be a Major League hitter…he’s an exciting player and I believe in him.”
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MiLB and BR have Nunez's age at 23 (born March 9, 2001), which of course makes his development even more promising. However, it's a little concerning that in 114 PAs since the start of July (his hot month), he has only 3 HRs and his rate stats seem to be heavily driven by a .377 BAbip (lots of singles finding grass). Plus his breakout month only consisted of 77 PAs.
I'm really rooting for Nunez (after having visited Cuba, I have a special affinity for Cuban players), but my optimism after reading the article was tempered when I started looking a little deeper (despite being encouraged when seeing his actual age, assuming MiLB and BR are the correct sources for that).
I got a pile of carrots to give out today, but it's week 1 of the Premiership, so I'll be busy until this afternoon.
You guys got odds on Shelton's job security?