Chicago Cubs prospect Jae-Hoon Ha, an outfielder with the AA Tennessee Smokies, has been named to the World Team for the All-Star Futures Game, which is basically a mega showcase for a variety of prospects throughout the minors. It doesn’t always include the best prospects in the minors, but, if you’re in the game, you’re generally regarded as a solid prospect (at least). Ha is the only member of the Cubs’ organization participating in the game this year.
From Baseball America on the Ha selection:
Ha was a catcher when the Cubs signed him, but he has developed into one of the best defensive outfielders in the system. Ha still has to learn to walk a little more as he doesn’t have enough power to profile as a slugging outfielder.
Ha currently sports a .251/.327/.342 line at AA, which is obviously not great, but, as I said, he is very much still thought of as a quality prospect. Keep in mind, he’s just 21, which is young for AA.
What an interesting discussion we’re having about a Cubs prospect…
But all of that immediately became irrelevant when BN’er Brandon – you may know him in the comments as the AA correspondent who often provides insightful tidbits from Smokies games – pointed out that he was featured in the lead picture for the Ha article.
And he’s wearing his Bleacher Nation shirt.
Awesomest awesome that ever awesomed:
Brandon, you are the man. Photographer Adam Kline, you are the man. Jae-Hoon Ha, you are the man.
And if you’re wondering where you can get your own BN shirt…
I’m so happy you guys ship to APO’s!!!! You rock.
I’ve had a shirt in my cart for the past few days. Can’t decide on a color or type. Blah.
I ordered mine a few days ago. I went with the American Apparel (more fitted) in classic royal blue. Pics from Wrigley coming in a few weeks.
If you click on “Customize Your Order” you can really get into the nitty gritty. I was able to get my banana hammock in an “antiqued leather” finish with solid brass studs and a matching ball gag. YMMV.
You too and I thought I was original.
Thanks Brett.
I’m just happy to be here.
Happy to do anything to help the ball club.
Lord willing; things will work out.
Go Smokies!!
When is Rizzo getting called up already???? Speculation like crazy that it will be this weekend. Anyone heard anything? Not much on Twitter.
Patience grasshopper, you should now by now that this FO is very quiet. He will be here… Soon!
Is no one going to mention the 3rd best thing about the picture? Apparently Jae Hoon Ha’s swing is so magnificent, it produces “Oooooh faces” on everyone in the Smokies’ dugout.
I did see that. But could barely take my eyes away from the glory.
Talk about product placement! (=
Hey Luke,
The kid at Daytona Austin Kirk seems to be doing well and he’s left handed. I know you have mentioned him before. Where does he project at the major league level? Could he be a 1 or a 2 starter? Do you think they will move him up to Tennessee soon? Any info would help and keep up the good work. You’re doing a terriffic job.
I’m not Luke, but I asked Kevin Goldstein his thoughts on Kirk a few weeks ago. The gist was he doesn’t have great stuff, but he’s a great pitcher (I took that to mean the mental side of the game, ability to hit spots, etc.). Ceiling isn’t higher than a three, though.
Thanks Brett,
I asked Luke cause i know he’s the minor league guy and he does a great job. That was a good call getting him. Thanks for the info. You, as always, do a great job too.