MLB player comparisons for 6 Cardinals' prospects

Victor Scott II: Kenny Lofton

I had a really hard time picking a comparison for Victor Scott II at first. Vince Coleman is the one most people go to as a Cardinals legend a stolen base machine, but he was more of a left fielder in his career and wasn't a Gold Glove defender at any point. Harrison Bader is another fun one, but outside of the defense, they feel like different players.

As I dug deep into some past examples of center fielders who were 80-grade defenders and stolen base threats, Kenny Lofton became the clear comparison for me. Lofton stole over 50 bags in a season six different times in his career, something I expect Scott II to do many times as well, but he also brought home four Gold Gloves in his career, something I also think Scott II has the ability to do.

Lofton was a .794 OPS guy in his career (107 OPS+), mixing in about 10 HR power with 30 doubles and 9 triples a year while getting on base at a high clip. Once again, that's the kind of offensive profile that Scott II will be looking to be as a big leaguer as well.

Scott II broke out in a huge way this year, swiping 94 bags while slashing .303/.369/.425 while playing 66 games in Peoria and 66 games in Springfield. He has quickly risen up prospect rankings for his elite speed, defense, and developing bat, and I wouldn't be surprised if he's roaming center field for St. Louis by the end of the 2024 season.