Nate Freiman Opening Eyes In The Padres Organization

Nathan Freiman is having quite the 2012 season. Freiman led the Texas League with 104 RBI’s — 11 more than the second place finisher. He put up an impressive triple-slash line of .298/.370/.502, with 24 dingers. Freiman still is not considered one of the Padres top 20 prospects, but he still impressive.

Freiman, as well as Missions teammate Cody Decker, are spending the early part of their offseason playing for Team Israel in the World Baseball Classic qualifying rounds. Freiman has been an absolute monster, homering twice in Israel’s 7-3 win over the Republic of South Africa. Freiman started at first, hit 3rd, and has been the best player in the tournament.

Freiman followed that performance up with another multi-homer game, swatting two bombs in Israel’s 4-2 win over Spain. Israel looks poised to make the final round of 16 in the 2013 World Baseball Classic. It would seem that Freiman’s performance has made him a player to watch in the tournament next year.

Isreal is managed by former Padres catcher Brad Ausmus, who currently works as a special assistant in the Padres organization. Ausmus is a candidate for a few managerial openings this offseason. Working with Ausmus, as well as former big-leaguer Shawn Green, who actually plays for Team Israel can only benefit Freiman.

Freiman is a first baseman, and is currently blocked by Yonder Alonso in the majors, but it never hurts to have depth in the organization.  Freiman will also represent the Padres in the Arizona Fall League. It would not be a stretch to see Freiman at Petco Park sometime soon.