Hank Conger

[SoCALkid]

His reaction to throwing out Cespedes showed some real heart in this team. Awesome.

[LAAMike]

Cespedes was out since he slid past the bag.  Conger's enthusiasm about getting the out was good to see.  

[SoCALkid]

Totally excited like a little leaguer, great stuff, this teams needs more of that.

[Blarg]

Someone needs to get him a participation ribbon.

[Jay]

Conger was happy he didn't throw the ball into CF

[CaliAngel]

Conger was happy he didn't throw the ball into CF

 

Conger threw a bullet a week or two ago to nab a guy at 2nd, so at least we know he has the ability to do it. 

 

Just has to refine it. 

 

I honestly don't think I've seen enough of Conger to determine if he's going to be able to consistently succeed at the Major League level, but I do love seeing stuff like this where the guys play well and smile out there. Haven't seen a lot of that from Trout this season, that's for sure.

 

I'm definitely rooting for him. 

[deakscauz]

Conger threw a bullet a week or two ago to nab a guy at 2nd, so at least we know he has the ability to do it. 

 

Just has to refine it. 

 

I honestly don't think I've seen enough of Conger to determine if he's going to be able to consistently succeed at the Major League level, but I do love seeing stuff like this where the guys play well and smile out there. Haven't seen a lot of that from Trout this season, that's for sure.

 

I'm definitely rooting for him. 

 

Here is the biggest issue, and CA nailed it on the head. We haven't seen much of Conger since he came up. Even back in 2011 when he had his most at bats he played behind guys like Mathis. This is the one real issue I can honestly look at and say that Scioscia has; dealing with catchers. It goes all the way back to when Napoli was here. Let's be honest, Conger isn't great defensively, but you will never know what type of player Hank is until you give him 350-450 at bats in a year.

[mopuddin]

[Second Base]

I'm just glad the Angels didn't give up on him.  There's a lot with Hank you can build off of.  He finishes with his hands high, his bat spends a lot of time through the zone and his arms and hips generate considerable torque, which can result in power.  The fact that he's a switch hitter is just icing on the cake and is only more reason to believe he may be able to be a full time catcher in the majors.  His K/BB ratio also shows that he can make adjustments and is a smart hitter.  As for his fielding, he has exceptional athletic ability and a willingness to learn.  Couple that with his local roots and he is a clear-cut 1st round worthy selection, which is when the Angels grabbed him.  His throwing motion has changed a bit from year to year, but his shoulder has become stronger ever since surgery and now he finally has a feel for where the ball is going.

[Erstad Grit]

I want good players. If a catcher throws runners out I really don't care if they show excitement. I am pulling for Conger but have major doubts. Him getting excited for Cespedes stealing a base off him but oversliding does not make me think he is better than what he is. 

[LAAFANofLA]

His ablility to stay behind a breaking ball with runners in scoring position needs improvement, but I like Conger. Good seeing him amped.