Xavier Avery Named Top Prospect

Salisbury, Md. - Baseball America recently tabbed former Shorebirds outfielder, Xavier Avery, as the 12th best prospect in the Carolina League this past season. Avery played for the Frederick Keys this season before earning a promotion to the Bowie BaySox.

In 2009, Avery served as the everyday center fielder for the Delmarva Shorebirds. As one of the youngest position players in the league, he still managed to bat .262 with 124 hits, 36 RBIs and 55 runs scored. Avery finished second on the Shorebirds with 30 stolen bases.

This season, Avery was the center fielder for the Frederick Keys. In 109 games, he battted .280 with four home runs and 48 RBIs. He was instrumental in leading the Keys to the first half Northern Division title. The Decatur, Georgia native finished third on the Keys in runs scored (73), third in hits (125) and second in stolen bases (28).

Avery continued his climb to the major leagues as he was promoted to Double-A Bowie in the second week of August. As a 20-year old, he batted .234 with three home runs and 18 RBIs in 27 games.

Avery was the lone member of Frederick to make the "Top 20". Julio Teheran (RHP) of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans was named the top overall prospect in the Carolina League.

For a complete list of the "Top 20 Prospects", click here.