Friday 5: Prospects to Watch in Cleveland Indians Spring Training

Carlos Moncrief, outfield

Mar 16, 2014; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Cleveland Indians players celebrate a win over the San Francisco Giants at Scottsdale Stadium. The indians won 5-1. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

At 26 years old, Carlos Moncrief seems a bit seasoned to be a high-level prospect in the big leagues.

Moncrief started his professional career as a pitcher before Cleveland moved him out to the outfield in 2010. From that point, Moncrief steadily worked his way through the ranks before putting together a wildly impressive 2013 season at Akron (AA). In that season with the RubberDucks, the Mississippi-native hit .284 and clubbed 17 homeruns. He knocked home 75 RBIs and struck out 98 times, epitomizing his significant improvements to his overall approach at the plate.

At 6-feet and 220 pounds, Moncrief has great power that should translate to the majors if he can cut down hit strikeout rate. Defensively, he has a rocket arm from right field and is a competent fielder.

At worst, Moncrief is an imposing fourth outfielder or platoon player. But, if he can continue to build upon the adjustments he has made to his approach, Moncrief could very well be a major contributor for the Tribe in 2015.

Next: 5 Questions Facing the Tribe this Spring