ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS

MLB analyst: Paul Goldschmidt has impressed scouts

May 8, 2013, 8:15 PM | Updated: 8:40 pm

Going into the 2013 season, many feared the Arizona Diamondbacks lacked a superstar.

Thirty-three games into the campaign, that could not be further from the truth.

They do have a superstar, and his name is Paul Goldschmidt.

The first baseman is hitting .314 with seven home runs and 27 RBI, with an OBP of .411 and an OPS of .956. He’s also played excellent defense.

“I spoke to a scout about a week ago, who told me, ‘I love Paul Goldschmidt,'” ESPN MLB analyst Tim Kurkjian told Arizona Sports 620’s Burns and Gambo.

Kurkjian said the scout told him Goldschmidt is a “self-made player” who is not without great ability, but “really works” at his craft.

The 25-year-old is in his second full Major League season — and third overall — and has seen his batting average rise each year. Known for his power, Goldschmidt has improved his plate discipline as well as contact rates.

“He’s not quite there yet, but he’s a very good young power hitter who’s going to get even better from here,” Kurkjian said. “And I know people around the league just rave at his strength, but they also rave now at his preparation and what it takes to hit in the big leagues.”

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MLB analyst: Paul Goldschmidt has impressed scouts