12. Scott Cousins

12. Scott Cousins - Rightfield - 6'2 - 190lbs - Throws: Left - Bats: Left
(last year: 10)

The Marlins drafted Scott Cousins five picks after Torre Langley in the 3rd round of the 2006 draft. A two-way player from the University of San Francisco, the Marlins were drawn to him as a sophomore when he hit .309/.398/.457 for the Dons. His two-way talents and efforts in leading San Francisco into the West Coast Conference championship series had scouts and cross-checkers flocking to see him. He has drawn quite a few comparisons in his overall game to former Marlins centerfielder Mark Kotsay. Scott actually fell in the draft after missing five starts due to elbow tendinitis. The Marlins felt lucky to get him so late.

With the Grasshoppers in 2007, Cousins got off to a horrible start hitting .246 in April and then .250 in May. Things finally clicked as the temperatures rose. He hit .338, .315, and .330 to end the season. Not only was he getting hits, but he was showing much better plate discipline and his power showed up as well. It was then that a scout gave this quote on Scott: “this guy has easy loft power . . . this is Chipper Jones, this is Daryl Strawberry kind of easy-swing loft power. You get some guys that just power balls out with a hack swing, but this guy is loose.”

Scott spent most of 2008 in Jupiter where he showed good power in a very good pitcher’s park and league. He would miss nearly two months after crashing into a wall trying to make a catch over his shoulder and smashing up his knee. Cousins spent time in the AFL where he hit .297/.385/.624 in 101 at bats with the Solar Sox.

Scott has an outstanding work ethic and is a no nonsense batter at the plate. He has fantastic speed(6.8-60 yard dash), to go with good and range and great instincts. Most believe he will be a fine centerfielder but with his improving strength, there are some who suggest he will become a prototype right fielder. Scott will more than likely open up the season in the New Orleans outfield, although he was invited to big league camp for the first time. He should be one of the first cuts, with 2010 being his first chance to fight for a starting spot in the Marlins outfield.