The Tribune

by RENALDO DORSETT

Tribune Sports Reporter

rdorsett@tribunemedia.net

BOTH Kristian Robinson and the Arizona Diamondbacks had an opportunity to look ahead into the prospect of the future when he got an opportunity to hit in a major league ball park.

Robinson, the team's top international signee, and Pavin Smith, the team's top draft pick of 2017, were hosted to batting practice at Chase Field in Phoenix Arizona as the Diamondbacks prepared to face the Kansas City Royals.

"It's basically like I'm hitting in a city. It's like a video game, and I'm just lining balls all over the city. That's what I like," Robinson said to sports360az.com. "I thought about this day once they told me I was going to take (batting practice), and I wanted to think about what I would do, just seeing the ball fly in a big league stadium, and that's what I dream for."

Out of Maximum Development Academy, Robinson signed the most lucrative deal of any Bahamian player this international signing period when he reached an agreement near $2.55 million.

Baseball America had Robinson ranked at No.9 among international prospects, while MLB Pipeline had him listed at No.15, the highest ranked of the group of Bahamians.

According to MLB.com's Jesse Sanchez, Robinson has the mix of athleticism and raw power makes him a contender and "has the potential to be a breakout star in this year's class."

The Diamondbacks selected Smith seventh overall in the first round of the Rule 4 Draft. He spent the past season with Hillsboro in Short Season Single A-Class.

Robinson was one of four Bahamians to sign during the current international signing period. "I have to thank everyone for supporting me through this process. I have to thank God for giving me the drive, desire and determination for this game and to reach my goal of signing with the Diamondbacks," Robinson said in July at his signing ceremony. "I have to thank the Diamondbacks for taking me to start my career and I have to say the start because this isn't the finish line for me. I hope to be in the majors very soon and I hope to stay there for a long time.

The 6'3", 195-pound outfielder joined a Diamondbacks organisation that already includes fellow Bahamians and Max D prospects Jazz Chisholm and DJ Collie.

Cesar Geronimo, the Diamondbacks' Latin American scouting director, said the next step for Robinson is to watch his progression toward the major leagues.

"We are very excited to see this young talent here from the Bahamas," he said. "It's been great to scout him, great to see him play. We really think this kid here is going to be something special. I only wish that in 4-5 years from now you guys can see him on television."