2011 Leaf Valiant Hak Ju Lee Autograph

The first of many Hak Ju Lee cards to appear on my blog I am guessing.  Lee was acquired by the Rays in the Matt Garza trade and has been slowly working his way up through their minor league system.  Along the way, Hak Ju Lee has developed a reputation for his excellent glove work, but has been held back at times by his offensive production.  Last season while playing for the AA Montgomery Biscuits Lee posted a line of .261/.336/.360 with 4 homers, 37 RBIs, and 37 steals.  Not very good production from the plate.  Still the Korean born prospect is considered by most following the Rays to be the shortstop of the future.  I was curious to see how Lee would fair playing up a level at AAA this year and have quickly become convinced that now is the time to pick up a few of his cards.  So, here is my first.

2011 Leaf Valiant Hak Ju Lee Autograph

This card is from the 2011 Leaf Valiant set which means I have now posted several unlicensed cards during the past week.  It may get worse over the next few days.  Hak Ju Lee has several cards in Topps products, but they have yet to put the shortstop in any autographed lines.  There are a few relics cards floating around from Topps Pro Debut and Bowman, but Leaf has cornered the market on Lee autographs for the time being.  If you were looking for a good card to buy for the future I have a good feeling about Lee's playing career on the next level.

In following the Durham Bulls this season,  I have been thoroughly impressed by the defense displayed by Lee.  He seems to have a very good range and a strong arm.  Lee makes all the plays that you would expect and more in the field.  More impressive has been his offense.  Lee is atop the International League Leader Board with a .422 average and an On-Base Percentage of .536.  He's also walked more than he has struck out.  Currently Lee is on the 7-Day DL, but he should be back next week.  I will be curious to see how he fairs against some of the AAA teams the second time around the league.