Matt Chapman is projected by many to be a top- round selection come June, and over the weekend there was an opportunity to view Chapman in the series at Oregon.
On Friday, Chapman started out by flying out to left field on a pitch he just missed.
In his second at-bat, Chapman struck out looking on an 84 mph fastball from Oregon left-handed pitcher Tommy Thorpe, with runners on second and third and one out.
Chapman’s third at bat presented a similar situation with runners at second and third with two outs. This time though, Chapman exploded on an 86 mph fastball for a three-run homer.The homer was the decisive blow in the game, and it was interesting to see Chapman’s approach.
With first base open, Oregon elected to pitch to Chapman. He laid off the first pitch for a ball, and then deposited the next pitch over the left field wall. He wasn’t interested in a walk, and took an aggressive approach in that situation, which is a good sign for clubs hoping he can become a run-producer.
His fourth at bat resulted in a well-placed double down the left field line, putting runners at second and third for following hitter J.D. Davis.
On Saturday, Chapman was 2-4 with two singles.
Sunday resulted in a 0-4 day, but Chapman did have a walk and a stolen-base as Cal State Fullerton swept Oregon.
In the field, Chapman made the routine plays and did not commit an error over the weekend. On a few bunt plays, Chapman showed off his solid arm, which is clearly one of his best tools.
So far this season, Chapman has committed just one error in 31 chances.
At 6”2 and 205 pounds, Chapman should be able to stick at third base, unless teams decide his future is on the mound, where reports are he was throwing 98 mph during the summer.
It is important to note that through ten games, Chapman has not made an appearance on the mound, possibly putting to bed the rumors of a future in the field.
In his ten games, Chapman is batting .341 with two homers and nine RBI.
He does have nine strikeouts compared to just four walks, a split that needs to get better if he has any hopes of being a middle of the order hitter at the next level.
You can see video of Matt Chapman below:
