Pirates Prospects has learned that West Virginia center fielder Tito Polo is expected to be promoted to Bradenton following the South Atlantic League All-Star game on Tuesday night. Polo is having a breakout season this year, posting a .302/.368/.551 slash line in 54 games, with 14 doubles, three triples, 12 homers and 20 stolen bases. He leads all Pirates in homers and stolen bases.
Polo was with West Virginia last year and struggled at the plate, though he stole 46 bases and played strong defense in center field, showing occasional glimpses of success. This year, the 21-year-old Polo is showing off all five tools, making him an intriguing prospect in the system. His biggest issue has been a tendency to be a free swinger, chasing breaking balls out of the zone. The Florida State League should be a good test since it’s more of a pitcher-friendly league than the SAL and he will see less fastballs.
Bradenton is currently two position players short on their roster due to Tomas Morales being promoted to Indianapolis, and Kevin Newman going to Altoona.
Speaking of Newman, he was named the FSL Player of the Week last week for his .636/.615/1.182 slash line in three games. He did spend the end of the week in Altoona, though the FSL had a shortened week due to their All-Star game on Saturday.
