I had the privilege to watch Singleton play for an entire season, in 2010, during his time in Lakewood, the Class-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies, in a season that would see the team, led by Singleton, win both the first, and second half titles, and eventually the South Atlantic League championship. Singelton, by the way, was only 18 years old at the time.
A year later, Singleton was the centerpiece of a deal to acquire the Astros last remaining star, Hunter Pence. Which may have been a blessing in disguise for Singleton.
As a Power hitting first baseman in the Phillies organization, he was, needless to say, blocked, just as Ryan Howard was, behind Jim Thome, which delayed Howard's career for a season or two.
The Phillies, recognized Singleton's skills, and attempted to convert him into an Outfielder in 2011, which led to a decline in his offensive output. Singelton split time between outfield, and first base that year, and the Phillies began looking at him as bait, for a possible trade. With the trade to Houston, Singleton was able to move back to the position he was more comfortable in full-time, and where he is somewhat above average defensively.
Singleton at the 2012 All Star Futures Game
Singleton, now ranked as the number 1 prospect in the Houston organization, could have a very short road to the Majors, with Carlos Lee being dealt to Miami, freeing up first base, and with the Astros continuing to flounder.
Singleton could emerge as as key player for the Astros, possibly even a franchise player, a role that he is very well capable of playing.
Standing at 6'2'' and weighing 235 lbs, he hits for power, average, and has very good strike-zone discipline, which he showed in his very first professional season, striking out only 13 times in 119 Plate Appearances, did I mention he was only 17? He also has a bit of speed, faster than the average first baseman, and as I mentioned before, is a little above average defensively.
Singleton has a very bright future, and a very bright present, showcasing himself in the All Star Futures Game, by having 3 hits, and a walk, against 4 different pitchers, who are all top prospects in their own right, and in the lone plate appearance in which he was retired, he still managed to move a runner over to third.
Certainly, especially in an age in which, every team must be represented, when Singleton makes it to the majors, he could most definitely be representing the Astros, at the Mid-Summer Classic, and more than likely, it will be sooner than later.
-MJ
Here is a scouting video featuring Jonathan Singleton:
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