Prospects1500 Biloxi Shuckers Preview #2

Today, we continue our partnership with Prospects1500 to preview the talent likely to occupy the Biloxi Shuckers' Opening Day roster. With the help of David Gasper, here are the next set of players that are projected to be with Biloxi to begin the season.

2B Gabe Holt

Yet another high average hitter that doesn't hit for much power, Holt put up impressive numbers in 2021, including a stint with the Biloxi Shuckers at the end of the season. Holt hit .283 overall last season between Low-A and Double-A, and walked 68 times with only 52 strikeouts. Holt has plenty of speed and stole 17 bases last year with the potential for much more. He's a threat at the top of the order who can set the table for the rest of the lineup. A college performer at Texas Tech, Holt could move up quickly with a strong performance early in the season with Biloxi.

IF Felix Valerio

Valerio can rake, and has some surprising power ability, especially for someone of his size. Primarily a second baseman, Valerio has great speed and hitting ability. Last season with Low-A Carolina, he stole 27 bases, hit six homers, and had a .314/.430/.469 slash line in 85 games. After getting promoted to High-A Wisconsin, Valerio hit just .229, but had five homers in those 29 games. He saw an uptick in power and if he can balance that power increase while keeping the high batting average he had all season, then Valerio is a real threat offensively and he'll be a joy to watch in Biloxi this season.

Coming up on Thursday, we'll preview the players that are likely to earn promotions to Biloxi throughout the 2022 season.