And he did.

Sutton, drafted by the Houston Astros in the 15th round of the 2004 draft, was one of the best hitters in the AA-Texas League last season. 

He lead the league in runs with 102, hits with 165, and doubles with 39. He placed in the top five in OPS (931, third) and walks (76, fourth). With 20 homers and 20 steals, he was the lone member of the 20-20 club.

Sutton has proven to be versatile, playing second base, shortstop, third, and even the outfield.

But there are some red flags. 

He put up those big offensive numbers while repeating the league, and at 25, was at least a couple years past the ideal age for AA. Sutton will have to carry the momentum into the 2009 season if he wants to prove that he’s legit. 

He’s likely to start the year with AAA-Round Rock, but a strong showing in spring training could put him in the mix for an opening day roster spot with the big league club.

Most analysts tag Sutton as a super-utility type, but that might be selling him a bit short.