Prospect Analysis: J.R. Towles

Name: J.R Towles
Organization: Houston Astros
Position: Catcher
Born: 2/11/1984
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Drafted: 2004, 20th Round



After a September call up, Towles proved to the Astros organization that he's qualified to handle the catching duties on the Major League Level.
Towles set a Astro record last season against the Cardinals, driving in eight runs in an 18-1 stomping.
Towles, initially was slow to move through the farm system, spending three seasons bouncing between rookie ball and Lexington.
2007 led to a horrific offensive start (Towles batted .200 in 90 at-bats in Salem) but was promoted twice before joining the Astros in September of that year. Astro pitchers have praised Towles' work behind the plate, but he could stand to work on his footwork and keeping would be base stealers quiet.
J.R. also has his own website and is a devout follower of the Christian Faith. He even has his own wristbands that are inscribed with "IBBWJ", or Taking an Intentional Walk With Jesus:
" These cool wrist bands are an exciting way to promote the unique message JR and staff had come up with. In a score book for baseball an "IBB" is an intentional walk. What a wonderful thought to have an "IBB" by your name in the book of Life, as you travel on your "Intentional Walk with Jesus"."