The Jersey Shore BlueClaws are loaded with intriguing young talent, which makes this week’s series against the Brooklyn Cyclones a great chance for fans to see future Philadelphia Phillies contributors up close. Many of them have the ability to ensure the team is growing as individuals. The players have the talent needed, but it’s never easy. However, there are several standout players in this series. Here are the top three names to keep an eye on over the next six games.
Devin Saltiban
Devin Saltiban remains one of the most exciting position-player prospects on the roster because of his blend of athleticism, speed, and power upside. If he’s seeing the ball well, he can impact games in multiple ways. At the plate, he is fantastic at getting the ball into the outfield and onto the bases. On the basepaths, he becomes a major threat to steal and take extra bases.
Defensively, Saltiban is always on top of fielding the ball. He knows how to read consistently and see where the ball is going to land before it even gets to where it needs to be. Only a true centerfielder would be on top of that.
Kodey Shojinaga
Catchers often get overlooked; however, Kodey Shojinaga is worth tracking because of what he brings on both sides of the ball. He has some of the bigger jobs on the team. Shojinaga handles the pitching staff to see what the pitcher of the evening is going to do. He is also the one controlling the run game. If he is on top of the ball, he won’t have any issues making sure that his pitcher can throw strikes. Shojinaga also contributes offensively in key spots, which could make him one of the most important players in this upcoming series.
Carter Mathison
Mathison offers left-handed power and run-producing potential. He is a heavy hitter and a player of a certain type that fans like to see. This is what brought him into the team. The Blueclaws need more hitters like him. He has also been a player to produce RBIs in these types of series. He is definitely one to keep an eye out for this week.
