Josh Barfield - Minor League News 2003 Player of the Year (Baseball)

Josh Barfield is one of the brightest rising stars in the minor league firmament.

Featured on MLN earlier this year (See "Comfort in the Shade of a Long Shadow"), there are many legacies in baseball. There may be just one or two that look to far outshine their famous fathers. In 2003, Josh begins the big burn that will carry him into a career in the big leagues that, more than likely, will impress even dad Jesse.

The 20-year-old Barfield had his breakout year in the Class-A California league this season answering critics questions about his offensive play, and established himself as a solid second baseman.

Josh posted terrific numbers. He was second in the league in batting with a .337 avg. Driving in 128 RBI, 46 doubles, 185 hits and 68 extra base hits all led the California league. Barfield was 3rd in runs with 99, and 5th in the league with both a .389 on-base percentage and .530 slugging percentage. Not a home run hitter, he posted a credible 16 round-trips.

Beyond the Numbers

Barfield's numbers are very good to outstanding for Class-A Advanced ball. What elevates him over his peers who have won our player of the year in the AA and AAA leagues?

Barfield demonstrates a consistency, a work-ethic, and a team-focused attitude that demonstrate a maturity beyond his years. He plays with a smile, confidence, and ease.

In this season with the Lake Elsinore Storm, he answered his critics at places like Baseball Prospectus about plate discipline and his ability.

Our Take on JB:

We don't believe that you'll be seeing Barfield in a Padres uniform by next season. Journeyman Mark Loretta of the Pads is having perhaps his best year, and Barfield will need time in front of better pitching to move forward. We do see him moving on to the fast track, particularly if he plays some great fall or winter ball. We'd look for him at the AAA level either by the start of the 2004 season or at least by mid-season.

The Padres have dealt many a great player, so it's not inconceivable that he could end up as trade-bait for a serviceable veteran. Wherever he plays, Barfield's talent, his life-long exposure to the best of baseball, and his positive attitude all tell us that he's a player to watch in '04 and beyond.

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