By Scott Barancik, editor
If catchers issued ‘Wanted’ posters featuring the base thieves they fear most, 2013 California League MVP Zach Borenstein would not be included. While the 23-year-old Angels prospect tore up opponents with his bat and legged-out seven triples last year, his five stolen bases in 10 attempts left noone quaking.
Yesterday was a different story. In just his fourth game since reaching Double-A, the Arkansas Travelers left fielder swiped four bases, including stealing home on a daring double-theft called by his manager in the fifth inning. Borenstein also contributed three singles, 2 RBIs, and 3 runs in an 8-1 win over the Frisco RoughRiders.
Until Monday, the 2011 draftee had never stolen more than two bases in a Minor League game.
“I’m good now, 100 percent,” Borenstein told MiLB.com, referring to the torn hip flexor that cost him a month last season. “I’m not a burner, but I have decent speed. I won’t get 70 bags, but I don’t like to forget that I can run.” He called his team’s”aggressive mindset” about baserunning “pretty contagious.”
Now ranked the Angels’ No. 11 prospect by MiLB.com, Borenstein came close to winning a Triple Crown in 2013. He hit .337 with 28 HRs, 95 RBIs, and a .403 on-base percentage.
# # #
