It’s just 25 games into the season, but already the Brewers’ Double-A Affiliate, the Huntsville Stars, have gotten off to a hot start (17-8). One of the key contributors to their early success: Matt LaPorta. LaPorta, the club’s 7th overall selection in the 2007 MLB Amateur League Draft, was a first-baseman by trade at the University of Florida, but with Prince Fielder anchoring the position for the immediate and hopefully extended future, LaPorta was forced to make a position switch. That position was left fielder; where GM Doug Melvin saw him as the best fit. The best fit, huh? Well looking at it long term, left field was the lone position the Brewers had yet to shore up. That was until, of course, Ryan Braun made the switch there before this season. Nevertheless, since settling in his new home in the outfield, the young man hasn’t been phased one bit. Like Braun, LaPorta has been on an accelerated path to the majors, not because the team’s rushing him, but because he’s crushing his opposition. Just to give you an idea, in his first major league at-bat in Rookie-Ball, LaPorta launched a home run. Since then, LaPorta made a short stop in West Virginia (Single-A), and then played in the Arizona Fall League, one of the most prestigious leagues at the minor league level, after being selected by the club to represent them. Braun was also chosen in 2006. In 30 games for the Mesa Solar Sox (a Fall League team), LaPorta socked 6 dingers, tied for the league lead over that span. LaPorta has since then opened the ‘08 campaign in Double-A Huntsville, where he has picked up where he left off–raking. Through 24 games (82 at-bats), LaPorta has blasted 6 bombs, with 22 RBIs (both tops in the league). And if that’s not convincing enough, he also ranks 4th in runs scored (18), 2nd in total bases (behind only teammate Mat Gamel), 4th in slugging percentage (.602- tied with Gamel), and 7th in on-base slugging percentage. Hopefully that’s enough to convince you. I wouldn’t be surprised to see LaPorta reach Triple-A Nashville in the next few months, and possibly be called up as soon as September 1st, when the active rosters expand to 40. LaPorta ranks as the Brewers #1 prospect, as well as the #23 ranked player in all of baseball by Baseball America. As far his position once he reaches the big league club? Don’t be surprised if he ends up in right, with Corey Hart sliding to center after Mike Cameron leaves (Cameron signed a 1-year deal).