Cameron Rupp

Name: Cameron Rupp

Position: C
Bats: RH
Throws: RH
DOB: 9/28/88
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 240 lbs

Drafted: 3rd round, 2010 ($287,000 bonus)

Career Synopsis: Rupp struggled with his adjustment to wooden bats in the pros, posting a meager .218/.318/.378 line in the NYPL. He struck out 51 times in just 223 plate appearances, although he partially offset this with 25 walks. His defense also suffered, as he made seven errors and was charged with eight passed balls in only 28 games while throwing out just 15% of attempted base stealers. Rupp participated in the FIL after the season. In 2011 the Phillies sent Rupp to Lakewood. Rupp put up a solid season with limited power, posting a .272/.346/.373 line. His defense continued to improve, but he his strikeout rate spiked with a decrease in his walk rate. In 2012 Rupp moved to Clearwater where he had a breakout year of source with a jump in power and walk rate and a large drop in strikeout rate. His defense received great reviews from management and his final .267/.345/.424 batting line earned the distinction as the #22 prospect in the system by Baseball America.

Hit: Rupp has a bit of an arm bar swing that limits his contact abilities against advanced stuff. It is unlikely that Rupp will be anything better than a below average hitter and at 25 there isn’t much room for projection left. 40

Power: Rupp has big raw power stemming from his large frame. While Rupp’s raw power is beyond plus he is limited by his ability to make consistent contact. In the majors Rupp’s power is likely to play closer to average to above average. 50/55

Arm: Rupp has a plus arm that provides strong weapon behind the plate. Rupp is accurate and does a good job limiting the run game. 60

Glove: Rupp is a solid receiver who provides a large target and is good blocking balls in the dirt. Rupp is not a gold glove level defender overall but he is a solid enough defender to stick at the position. 50

Speed: Rupp is a poor runner on the base paths. 30

Overall: Rupp’s lack of projection and plus tools make him more ideal has a solid backup catcher. His hit tool might play below average if he cannot make adjustments and it will limit his ability to have his power play in games. On defense he is a solid defender but it does not provide value to offset his offensive deficiencies.

Update: Began the 2015 season as Carlos Ruiz. Ended the season as the starting catcher. Will probably be no worse than the back up to start the 2016 season.

Videos:

From Summer 2009