McAdam: Scouting reports on Alex Verdugo, Brusdar Graterol

A little is known about Alex Verdugo, the outfielder the Red Sox obtained for Mookie Betts and David Price Tuesday night. Next to nothing is known about Brusdar Graterol, the pitching prospect who was the second piece, via the Minnesota Twins.

We turned to a veteran talent evaluator for his assessment of both:



ALEX VERDUGO: "Sound athlete with big tools, top to bottom...Can manage at-bats with ability to show plate discipline. ... Low strikeout rate ... above league average developing power that translates into 45-double, 30-homer potential. ... Uses entire field. The Wall at Fenway can be his best friend if he can stay disciplined. ... Plus-plus bat contact with plus power developing. ... Strong arm and average speed and instincts will probably translate into playing a corner outfield spot, but could fill CF as well. ... Biggest issue is mental maturity development, taking responsibility for policy, daily commitment. ... Is the passion 100 percent or 75 percent?. ... If he achieves his talent, he's a No. 3-5 hitter. ... Patience will be needed with his maturing "upstairs" but I like this gamble as he now has a legitimate opportunity to flourish.''

BRUSDAR GRATEROL: "Thick, strong agile power body. ... Big arm strength, with a 97-101 mph fastball with good sink action. ... Throws from three-quarter delivery. ... Doesn't have the swing-and-miss rate, which is a tick below average. ... Hard slider, which hitters chase because of late life, thrown 88-92 mph. ... Uses changeup mostly against left-handed hitters. ... How well he develops changeup will be a key to his success as a starter. ... Loses concentration at times. ... Needs to get ahead of hitters more and contain walks and mistakes in and out of strike zone. ... No reason to put him in the bullpen yet, since he has a No. 2-3 starter ceiling with the floor being a power set-up arm...Finish on the fastball tends to bore, fade rather than the riding effect he flirts with....Needs a half-year of development at Triple A.''