2022 Phillies Top Prospects Countdown #22 1B/OF Jordan Viars

A third round draft selection by the Phillies in 2021, high schooler Jordan Viars has drawn much attention as a promising prospect. '

Equipped with raw power and said to have a very high offensive ceiling, the Texas native was reported be multiple organizations' favorite high school batter heading into last year's draft.

Opening his professional career in the Florida Complex League in 2021 after he was the 84th overall draft pick, Viars batted .255 with three home runs, 18 RBI and a pair of stolen bases. He also walked a bunch (17.2% walk rate), which was very impressive.

Defensively, Viars split his time in the minors between left field and first base. With a strong arm, he could find himself getting time in right field as he advances, but first base could be a more likely option for where he lands long term.

Viars has one of those "projectable" frames that baseball types love. At six-feet-four, 215 pounds, the 18-year-old has wide shoulders, long arms with loads of time to add muscle and strength.

Speed may not be a boast-worthy aspect of Viars' game, but he shouldn't be a detriment to his team on the bases either.

Committed to play college ball for Arkansas, the Phillies threw an above slot signing bonus of $747,500 at Viars to entice the young slugger to opt for the minors over the land of higher learning.

It may not be farfetched to see Viars on a full-season club this year. Class A is on the horizon for this budding talent.

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