When analyzing prospects, a particularly popular exercise is to try and find a ‘comp.’ Finding an established big leaguer who matches the body type and skill set of the prospect in question can help to set a tangible expected outcome for a relatively unknown quantity. “Adam Dunn” is certainly easier to digest than “plus-plus raw power with a 45 bat, plus plate discipline, and below-average defense,” at least for the average fan.
Unfortunately, some players are simply incomparable. There are speedy short-statured players like Jose Altuve who leave evaluators scratching their heads from their minor-league debut to their fourth All-Star Game, or uninspiring and low-strikeout arms like Dallas Keuchel who miraculously develop into Cy Young pitchers when they get the chance to showcase their elite command.