2018 Phillies Prospect Countdown: #22 3B Cole Stobbe

Cole Stobbe, image- MiLB.com

After making a transition to third base from shortstop last year, Cole Stobbe (pronounced STOW-bee) looks ready to climb the developmental ladder and garner some attention among the Phillies' top prospects.

Selected in the 3rd round of the 2016 MLB amateur draft, the right-handed hitting infielder signed quickly with the Phils.

As a high school player prior to the draft, Stobbe was a very well-rounded high school hitter, stroking the ball to all fields while displaying power. He was committed to playing college ball at Arkansas before being drafted by the Phillies.

The first pick of the third round, Stobbe had already seen two of his teammates from the USA Baseball 18-and-under national team get picked by the Phils. Those players, first overall selection Mickey Moniak and second rounder Kevin Gowdy, also signed.

Stobbe made his pro debut as a shortstop for the rookie level Gulf Coast League Phillies. In 44 games, the Nebraska native tallied a .270 batting average with eight doubles, four home runs and 13 RBI.

In the fall instructional league following the 2016 season, he got playing time at third base and the organization felt comfortable transitioning Stobbe to the hot corner.

Last year with the short-season Class A Williamsport Crosscutters, playing nearly the entire season as a 19-year-old, Stobbe notched a .280 average with eight doubles, a triple, eight home runs and 22 RBI.

Defensively, the six-foot-one, 200-pounder has quality range and a strong arm with a quick release. Those were things the Phils liked for the third base position.

Speed doesn't appear to be a great part of Stobbe's game, as he's been successful in just five out of 14 steal attempts in the minors.

Coaches like Stobbe's work ethic and attention to details. He's definitely a student of the game.

Look for the 20-year-old to possibly open the 2018 season as a member of the Class A Lakewood BlueClaws.

Keep track of this year's Phillies prospect countdown at this link.

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