2009 Draft: - RHP - Rank List Changing Daily

We're getting down to the final list and everybody is coming out with their version of who's on top. I value all the experts opinions and continue to factor all their thoughts in to my composite ranking:

Here's today's:


1. Steven Strasburg - San Diego State… 6-5, 220… 56.9 K% 5.4 BB%, 100 mph fasball, but slider may be best pitch... really a slurve… 80-82… changeup: 80-82… 74 Ks in 34 IP through March 2009… 2008: 97.1 IP 12.3 K/9 1.5 8.3 K/BB… In his first start at the Olympics, Strasburg one-hit Netherlands over seven innings-- striking out five of the first six batters he faced… everyone has him being picked number one in the draft… through 4-1-09: 5-0, 42.1 IP, 24H. 8ER. 8BB. 88K, .161BA, 1.70ERA… through 4-7: 94Ks in 48 IP, 6-0, 1.49… named Mountain West pitcher of the week April 20: complete game shutout, 14 Ks, vs. Arizona. As of 4/23: 8-0, 63 1/3 IP, 41 H, 9 ER, 12 BB, 121 K, .186 BAA, 1.28 ERA… thru 4/23: has struck out 51.5% of batters while walking 8.8%, which may be the highest in college baseball history… Thru 4/30: 9-0, 70 1/3 IP, 45 H, 12 ER, 13BB, 135 K, .182 BAA, 1.54 ERA… From John Sickles: The buildup about Strasburg is actually getting a bit ridiculous. The numbers are awesome: 10-0, 1.38, 147/18 K/BB in 78 innings, 48 hits allowed. The scouting reports are awesome: upper 90s to 100 MPH fastball, excellent secondary pitches, excellent command. But people are now throwing around Tom Seaver comparisons and calling Strasburg a once-in-40-years prospect. I don't mean to downplay him at all; he's legitimately terrific, and the Nationals are fools if they don't make every possible effort to sign him, but he's still a pitcher and as such is risky by nature. The contrarian part of my mind is starting to rebel somewhat against the hype…. End of Season stats: 11-0, 87 1/3 IP, 48 H, 12 ER, 17 BB, 164 K, .161 BAA, 1.24 ERA… through 2 playoff games: 13-0, 102 IP, 57 H, 14 ER, 19 BB, 180 K, .164 BAA, 1.24 ERA… From Lincoln Hamilton’s Top 30 draftees… #1… You may have heard of him by now, 50.4% K 5.2%BB, great stuff, his tears may cure cancer… 5/21: Jonathan Mayo’s Top 10 picks for the draft: 1. Washington Nationals: Stephen Strasburg, RHP, San Diego State - He was the top guy heading into the season and basically ran away and hid right from the get-go. The only question was about the bonus demands, and whether Washington would be willing to go down that road, knowing they really had to sign their first pick after not getting pitcher Aaron Crow into the fold a year ago. It seems likely they will select Strasburg, and look for the Nats to get it done and move him on the fast track.



2. Aaron Crow - Unsigned 9th overall pick in 2008… left Missouri and became a member of the Fort Worth Cats/American Association… was 13-0, 127Ks for Missouri in 2008… pitched 1.0 innings for Ft. Worth in 2008… pitched Cape Cod summer where he led the league with 0.67 ERA projected as SP2… 6-3, 195, R/R… 2008 NCBWA All America… 2008: 3.57 ERA in 117.2 IP… Friday night starter… led team with 90Ks… some question his mechanics… mid-90s fastball… touches 98… excellent hard slider… keeps ball down in the zone… slider a plus pitch… Gillette: “people forget he was one of the top picks in 2008”… 5/21: Jonathan Mayo’s Top 10 picks for the draft: #5 (3rd RHP on list) - Baltimore Orioles: Aaron Crow, RHP, Fort Worth Cats - Crow was taken No. 9 overall a year ago by the Nationals, but didn't sign. Instead of returning to Mizzou, he went the indy route, pitching for a Fort Worth club that has had guys like Luke Hochevar pitch for it. Word is Crow looks the same as he did a year ago, and there were plenty of teams who liked him in 2008. The O's were one of them before they decided to go in another direction, and they still like the right-hander. Like in most spots in the top 10, a team looking at Crow is probably also looking at Gibson. Wheeler, the high schooler out of Georgia, is on their short list as well, and they could go for a bat like Green if they so choose.


Kyle Gibson - Missouri - 2nd in country through March 2009 with 54 Ks… junior… 6’6” 195… 2008: 86.2 IP, 10.0 K/9, 2.4 BB/9… 2007 Baseball America Cape Cod League Top Prospect… Baseball America projects him as the 9th overall pick in the draft… fastball: 91-92, tops at 94… big, angular kick… above-average sinker… changeup 80-82… absolutely wicked slider… command and poise… definitely a first round pick… through 4-7-09: 4-1, 1.1554K/39.0 IP… through 4/23: 90 strikeouts and 11 walks over 69 innings… From John Sickles: 3.66 ERA with a 107/14 K/BB ratio in 84 innings, 77 hits allowed. While most attention has been focused on Stephen Strasburg, Gibson has also had a terrific season as shown by his lovely K/BB and K/IP ratios. He has a 90-93 MPH fastball, with sinking action, and both is slider and changeup are strong pitches. Combine that with his sharp control and consistent mechanics from a 6-6, 210 pound frame, and you have a possible Top Ten pick… Gillette: “projectable frame, staff leader”… 5/21: Jonathan Mayo’s Top 10 picks for the draft: # 8. (5th RHP on list) - Cincinnati Reds: Kyle Gibson, RHP, Missouri - Once again, it's college-arm time and it might just depend on who falls to Cincy at this spot. In this scenario, it's Gibson, and the Reds would likely be just fine with that. They might have a discussion about Tanner Scheppers, who has top-of-the-Draft talent, but still has the question mark of a shoulder issue following him.


3. Alex White – - 2.7/1 K:BB… some mechanical concerns… hit on early this season… 20 years old… was drafted in 14th round by the Dodgers in 2007… fastball in 93-96 range with late life that acts like a turbo-sinker… slider that will be out pitch in majors… and spitter… 2.83 ERA in 15 games, 13-3, 113 Ks last year for Tarheels… 6-3, 200… some say he hasn’t developed since his high school days, but does have a pro-like fastball… currently projects out as a middle reliever in the Bigs. Named ACC player of the week April 20: last 4 outing, all against top 20 teams: 1.93, 36K, 32.2 IP…. threw UNC's first one-hitter since 1994… mechanics concerns over forearm turnover and pitching elbow well above shoulder height… through 4/25: 6-1, 3.14, 31H, 25BB, 58K, 44.1 IP… From John Sickles: White has a 3.36 ERA with a 77/26 K/BB in 70 innings so far, with 56 hits allowed. His components are very good though not exceptional. He has a fine body at 6-3, 200, a fine fastball at 89-94 MPH, an a very fine slider. His curveball and changeup will need some polish in pro ball. His command is generally solid, though not terrific. All in all, White is basically, well, solid, and would be another safe pick in the second half of the round… Gillette: “nasty slider and velocity that’s suited for the pen”… 5/21: Jonathan Mayo’s Top 10 picks for the draft: #4. (2nd RHP on list) - Pittsburgh Pirates: Alex White, RHP, North Carolina - The Pirates would have serious interest in Ackley if he somehow gets to them, but that seems unlikely at this point. If they decided a college bat is what they need, there has been some talk they've been interested in USC shortstop Grant Green. The next-best choices might be college arms, and Pittsburgh has been all over the Tar Heels' ace, as well as watching Crow and current Missouri starter Kyle Gibson. Don't forget the high school arms because they haven't, with prep stars like Zack Wheeler, Matthew Purke and Matt Hobgood still in the mix.


4. Tanner Scheppers – (up from 6th) - top '08 prospect before stress fracture injury… In his Junior year at Fresno State went 8-2 with a 2.93 ERA in 12 games (11 starts) with one complete game. In 70.2 innings he walked 34 and struck out 109 while opponents hit just .202 against him...Named 2008 WAC Pitcher of the Year and All-Conference First Team… was drafted in the 2nd round last year after the injury and turned down seven figures with the Pirates… left school and played for the Saint Paul Saints/American Association… now throwing 95 mph fastball, 87mph slider…fastball has touched 99… 40.1% K… 12.8% BB… 4/30: pitched in intrasquad Indy game – upper 90s… from MLBTradeRumors: “Scouts expect Tanner Scheppers, who was drafted but never signed by the Pirates last year, to be selected within the first 15 picks. They're divided on whether the righty, who is pitching in an independent league, can crack the top ten.”… 5/14: the Pirates have been granted permission to draft Scheppers again this year… many consider him now healthy, and a top 10 pick… From Lincoln Hamilton’s Top 30 draftees… #2 - Tanner Scheppers - mid-90's FB, + SL, healthy now, best pure stuff other than Stras … 22.3 yrs. old



5. Jacob Turner – (up from 12th) 94 mph fastball… good curve and change… 6-4, 205… turning 18… Westminster Christian Academy, St. Louis… Pitched for Westminster Christian Academy, opponents, 5-2, 1.45, 92K/43 1 IP… Baseball America projects Turner as the 12th pick overall… pitched for USA 18U National team and struck out 19 in 10.0 IP… very big and strong… fastball in low 90s, tops 94… mid-70s plus curve… signability an issue… committed to North Carolina. Advisor: Scott Boras… from MLBOutsider: “Turner is a 6-foot-4, 215-pound right-hander who has reached 98 mph on the radar gun this spring and has flashed a plus breaking ball and more-than acceptable command as a high school senior. He Began the season behind other prep arms such as left-handers Tyler Matzek and Matt Purke, and right-handers Zack Wheeler and Shelby Miller, but his late push in front of dozens of scouts - including an 18-strikeout performance in early May where his final fastball was clocked at 94”… From Lincoln Hamilton’s Top 30 draftees… #9 (5th RHP taken) - Polished prep pitcher whose FB has hit 97-98 mph recently, good curveball and change - 18.0 years old… ***sign ability problems…


6. Zach Wheeler – (up from 9th) - 6-4, 180… 95 mph fastball, sinker, curve, good mechanics… turning 19… East Paulding HS, Dallas, Ga…. went 8-3 for East Paulding High School in 2008 with a 1.31 ERA and 127 strikeouts in 64 1/3 innings… big, slow delivery… compared to Orel Hershiser… From Lincoln Hamilton’s Top 30 draftees… #9 (3rd RHP taken) – power pitcher, mid-90s with great sinker, big time curve, advanced control… 5/21: Jonathan Mayo’s Top 10 picks for the draft: # 7. (4th RHP on list) - Atlanta Braves: Zack Wheeler, RHP, East Paulding HS, Dallas, Ga.- This one almost seems to make too much sense, with the Braves loving power arms and taking guys in their own backyard. Wheeler fits both of those criteria. If Wheeler is taken above them -- which is extremely possible -- they could look elsewhere for a high school pitcher, perhaps Purke or fellow lefty Tyler Matzek.



7. Shelby Miller – (up from 10th) - 94 mph fastball, sinker, two breakers… touched 97 this spring… 18 years old… Brownwood (Texas) HS… solid command of off-speed pitches… mid-70’s breaking ball… tossed three consecutive no-hitters last spring… committed to Texas A&M. week 4.25: 3-hit shutout… so far, 5-0 in league games… From Lincoln Hamilton’s Top 30 draftees… #7 (4th RHP taken) - Athletic fireballer w/ strong arm, FB sits 92-94 w/ sink, potential for two + breaking pitches - 18.6 years old

8. Eric Arnett – (up from #19) - Indiana… 6-5, 225… fastball touching 96 this year… 94 in the 9th inning… as of 4/23: 8-1, 69K, 19BB, 70IP, 4 complete games… 84-85 slider… pitched out of the bullpen first two years… through 4/25: 8-1, 1.94 69K/19BB in 70.0 IP… From John Sickles: Emerging prospect this spring, going 9-1, 2.49 with a 76/24 K/BB in 76 innings, 58 hits allowed. The contextual ERA in which he's pitched is about 6.00, and all of his component ratios are quite strong. He's big and physical at 6-5, 225, and scouts report his velocity has improved from 90-93 to 93-96 this spring, along with a sharper slider. He looks like a possibility in the second half of the first round, and isn't likely to get past the supplemental round. 5/18 from MiLB: “His performance a few weeks ago against Michigan -- 6 1/3 IP, eight hits, seven runs (six earned), five walks, seven strikeouts -- wasn't stellar, but he stayed in the game long enough to get the win and did little to dampen a breakout junior season that has seen the right-hander go 11-1 with a 2.78 ERA in 12 starts. He's thrown six complete games and has allowed only 73 hits (.215 batting average against) over 94 innings while walking 34 and striking out 93.”… From Lincoln Hamilton’s Top 30 draftees… #26 (9th RHP on list) 6-foot-5 very athletic, basketball player, smooth mechanics, FB sits mid-90's, good curve… 21.3 yrs. old…

9. Ben Tootle – (up from 13th) - Jacksonville State – 6-1, 185… named one of the top prospects in the Cape Cod League last summer after hitting triple digits in the closing role. Fastball sits 94-96 touching 98… a bit unorthodox because of his size and his enormous leg kick. His low to mid 80s breaking ball was called the Cape's best by his manager from Falmouth. Considered the 2nd top closing prospect in the draft… Feb 09: named to the Baseball America preseason All-America team… 09: converted to starter… as of 4-15: 3-1, 3.58, thru 8 starts… 45K/35.2 IP… some of the best stuff in the draft… some consider him to be future reliever… From John Sickles: Another hard thrower, Tootle can get up to 99 MPH and this is reflected with 47 strikeouts in 40 innings, a fine ratio in the context of Jacksonville State. On the other hand, his command needs work: he's walked 26 leading to a 4.54 ERA. He's somewhat raw but could go anywhere in the second half of the first round or in the supplemental round…. From Lincoln Hamilton’s Top 30 draftees… #30 (11th RHP on list) - FB works upper-90's in relief with life, mid-90's as starter, plus power curve, battled illness - 21.3 yrs. old…

10. Mike Leake - (down from 5th) - Arizona State junior… 6-0,1 80, R/R… – pitched most innings in country through March, 40.0… 1.35 ERA… 32.4% K 4.7%... sophomore season: 16 G, 11-3, 3.49, 121.1 IP, 104K, 20BB… 88-94 fastball, sits at 91… hard slider 79-82… 73-76 curve… plus, plus command… a 70 on the scouting scale… as of 4/6/09: 7-1, 1.29, 62-13 K/BB, 56 IP. April 26: (9 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 7 K, 7th complete game of career, 3rd this season, 10-1, 1.54… From John Sickles: It is hard to beat Leake's statistical performance this year: 11-1, 1.59, 96/18 K/BB in 91 innings, 53 hits allowed. And Arizona State plays great competition. Leake has exceptional polish, and is rated as a first round talent despite a fastball in the 88-92 range. His slider, curveball, and changeup are all strong, especially the changeup, and his feel for pitching is terrific. Scouts love his competitive instincts and he should move quickly through the minors, even though he doesn't have the ceiling of some of these other guys. He could go anywhere from 20 to 50 on the draft board…. From Lincoln Hamilton’s Top 30 draftees… # 13 (6th RHP taken) Mike Leake - undersized but very athletic, quality four pitch mix with plus command, 29.6% K 4.5% BB - 21.5 years old…


11. Alex Wilson - Junior… 6-1, 205, R/R… 91-95 mph fastball… sits at 94… slider 82-85… 80-81 curve… had TJS and redshirted the 2008 season… 38.8% K 6.4% BB … Texas A&M… 49:8 strikeout-to-walk ratio … 2006 freshman All-American… 6-1, 205… thru 4-7-09: 68:12 strikeout-to-walk ratio… From Lincoln Hamilton’s Top 30 draftees… #22 (8th RHP on list) Dominated Big 12 (33.8% K 5.6% BB) with power stuff, 94-96 mph fb, plus slider, had TJ… age: 22.5


12. Sam Dyson – (up from 18th) - South Carolina… draft-eligible sophomore… 98 mph fastball… 2008: 8-0, 4.09, 44K/28BB/51.0 IP…through 4-7 this year: 4-2, 4.85, 40K/20BB/43.0 IP, but consistently in the the 93-96 rank and touching 98. Plus 78-82 hard curve… from realsportsbloggers: A draft eligible sophomore, Dyson will have his name called out on the first day. Dyson has good size to remain a starter. He also has some of the best stuff in this draft. Dyson throws in the low 90’s, touching 98 on occasion. He compliments this with a sharp hammer curveball that gives him at least a bullpen arsenal. However, Dyson has several flaws. For starters, he’s had some arm problems in the past, and already has a Tommy John to his name. He also lacks a second offspeed pitch, with his changeup being a work in progress. However, he is aggressive on the mound, and when he’s on, he’s easily one of the most higher ceiling players in the draft. In terms of where I think he’ll go, because of his status as a draft eligible sophomore, he has some leverage to gain a higher bonus. I think he’s a first rounder, but probably toward the end… for season: 7-4, 5.70, 79IP, 72H, 31BB,68K… From Lincoln Hamilton’s Top 30 draftees… # 15 (7th RHP on list) Sam Dyson – HP Elite arm strength, mid-90's fb that hits 98, plus power slider, command must improve – age: 21.0



13. Chris Jenkins - Westfield HS; Westfield, NJ 6′4, 225, Bats R, Throws R… has hit 95, averages 91… 2008: 94K/50.0 IP, 1.60… thows from downhill plane… basically one pitch pitcher at this stage… 5/17 BA: “entered the year as a first-five rounds selection, but he's steadily climbed the charts and now has a chance to be selected in the first 15 picks”… sitting at 91-93 mph usually and touching as high as 96…. 5/21: Jonathan Mayo’s Top 10 picks for the draft: - (6th RHP on list) - 10. Washington Nationals: Chad Jenkins, RHP, Kenesaw State - I know what you're thinking -- that the Nats are going cheap because of Strasburg. Not so fast. Sure, if they can save a few dollars here, they won't say no, but the fact of the matter is Jenkins was rising up many Draft boards, not just in Washington, surpassing his teammate Kyle Heckathorn, also a first-round candidate. And it's not like he's the only option here. They could get in on the Scheppers hunt or, believe it or not, re-draft Crow. They were also spotted en force watching Matzek recently, and he could be the guy if they go high school arm here.

14. Mychal Givens - (down from 10th) - Plant HS senior… 6-1, 185… R/R… explosive arm… a pleasure to watch in the field… also a top pitcher who hits 93 with his fastball… named the high school player of the year by AFLAC…


15. Kyle Heckathorn - Kennesaw State… Junior 6-6, 220, R/R… 2008: 4-2, 4.98, 64K, 22 BB, 60.0 IP… fastball 96, touching 99… two-seamer sinker… major league changeup… from BA: In a terrific matchup against Lipscomb lefty Rex Brothers, Heckathorn beat the southpaw, 2-1. He went 8 2/3 innings, allowing one run on eight hits while striking out nine and walking three. For the season, he's gone 4-1 with a 3.55 ERA over 10 starts. He's struck out 68 and walked 21 in 63 1/3 innings pitched, while holding hitters to a .229 average… 5/6: Baseball Draft Report has him as 7th RHP drafted…

16. A.J. Morris - (down from 12th)) - Kansas State… Junior… 6-2, 200, R/R… 4th year junior… 2008: 14 appearances, 12 starts, 4-4, 6.04… as of 4-7: 8-0, 0.83… April 26: 9 IP, 8 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 5 K… pick up his school-record 10th win of the year… From John Sickles: Morris is 10-0, 1.27 with a 74/20 K/BB in 78 innings, this year, with 55 hits allowed. All of his components are excellent for the context, and he has one of the livelier arms among college seniors this year, getting his fastball into the low-90s. His breaking ball and changeup are also solid, and his command has been very steady this spring. He doesn't have as much leverage as other pitchers and could be a nice bargain pick in the second round range… thru 5/6: 1.29 ERA in 83.2IP… won Big-12 conference Pitcher of the Year

17. Ryan Berry - (down from 13th) - Rice… 6’1”, 195… 91 mph fastball, 82 mph pro curveball, 84 mph slider… 4-0, 1.96, 31K/37.0 IP through March 2009… also led nation through March with three complete games… and two shutouts… MVP of Houston College Classic… 2007: 11-3, 3.01, 125 K… through 4/25: 4-0, 1.69, 16H, 7BB, 31K, 36.2 IP – Update 5/1: - will pitch an inning in relief 5/6… hasn’t pitched since March 21, sidelined by a subscapular muscle strain…




18. Kendal Volz - Baylor… 6-5, 225, R/R junior… Baseball America ranked him the 6th MLB draft prospect… pitched for the USA baseball national team this summer… fastball 88-92, tops at 97… slider 79-82… changeup 81-84… very good command… had 0.00 ERA and went 8-for-8 in save opportunities for college team... … thru 4-6-09: Walks up… strikeouts down… may be better suited as a reliever. Reports are he has lost 3-5 mph from his fastball…. 9 IP, 7 H, 4 R, 3 ER, 2 BB, 10 K, in a no-decision 4/27… From John Sickles: Volz's performance hasn't quite matched his potential yet. He's 3-5, 4.00 with a 71/33 K/BB in 74 innings, 73 hits allowed. His components are above average for context, but he lacks consistency. At his best, he has a 97 MPH fastball and a plus slider, but both his velocity and control will slip when his mechanics aren't right. His ceiling is impressive but he's still polishing up his game, and like several of these guys he could go later in the first round.


19. Jason Stoffel – Arizona – many consider nation’s top reliever in draft… was named Pitcher of the Week in Pac-10 for Mar. 9 – 15… short memory and seldom gets rattled… would rather start… low-90s fastball… curve is a plus pitch… as of 4/23: 39 Ks, 7 saves in 25.2 IP – down a tick this year… fastball slightly down… 1-1, 4.54 thru 4/23… In Pac-10, 15 runs in 13 innings… hammer curveball has regressed… From John Sickles: Stoffel has struggled a bit with his command this year. He has a 5.59 ERA with a 41/19 K/BB in 39 innings, 36 hits allowed, collecting eight saves. His K/IP is very good for context, and even his ERA isn't bad given that the overall ERA in Arizona games is about 6.20. At his best, Stoffel buzzes hitters with a mid-90s fastball and a hard curveball, but he hasn't always been at his best this year. This reminds me of what happened to Mariners prospect Josh Fields at the University of Georgia, who had a similar slump in his junior year. Teams still like Stoffel, but where he gets drafted will likely depend on what his bonus demands are.

20. Matt Hobgood - (up from 50th) - Norco HS; Norco, CA. 6′4, 245… 91-95 range, sinker, 4-seamer… hard curve… Josh Beckett clone… Recent drop in velocity has scouts worried… From Lincoln Hamilton’s Top 30 draftees… 21st (8th RHP on list) - Matt Hobgood - Future workhorse, FB touches mid-90's, great power curveball, great makeup, baseball rat… age: 18.7…


21. Scott Bittle – Mississippi… 6-2, 195… drafted by Yankees in 2nd round of the 2008 draft… Named to the Brooks Wallace Award Watch List honoring the nation’s top player ... 2008: 27 appearances… .145 OBA, 1.78 ERA, 130K/70.2 IP… 2009 so far: named SEC pitcher of the week 4/6 by the College Baseball Blog… 2 wins in 2 starts… 13K vs. Kentucky.. 0 BB… thru 5/6: 2.17 ERA…

22. Drew Storen - Sophomore… Stanford… 6-2, 175… switch-hitter… fastball in 89-95 range… fast curve averages 80-81… good college reliever who seems to have overcome reported command problems… so far as of 4/15: 32Ks and only 1 BB. From John Sickles: Storen has shown excellent command this year, posting a 42/4 K/BB in 28 innings. His K/IP is outstanding, and his 3.21 ERA and 25 hits allowed are very solid for context. He's picked up six saves, but his arsenal should be diverse enough to be a starter in pro ball: 90-94 MPH fastball, good curveball, and a changeup that needs polish but is promising when he uses it. His control is obviously excellent, and he fits well as a "safe" pick late in the first round or in the supplemental round… 5/17: touching 96 as closer…

23. Brad Boxberger - USC… 6-2, 200… R/R… closer turned starter… averages 95 fastball plus cutter and good slider… 25.5% K 12.7% BB… has 25 walks through 32 innings through March this year… played in Cape Cod League in 2007: 1-0, 1.24… thru April 6, 2009: Only four walks over past 15 innings. As of April 23: Opponents hitting just .171 off of him… From John Sickles: 2.76 ERA with a 84/42 K/BB in 78 inning, 51 hits allowed. Boxberger's K/IP and H/IP ratios are excellent, but his walk rate is rather high. The stuff is here: 90-95 MPH fastball, good slider, curveball, changeup with some potential. Because of the command issue, he could last to the second round. There has been talk of making him a reliever, but given his overall performance this spring he could remain in the rotation as a pro. He would be another option late in the first round or in the supplemental area… 5/4: fastball was only 88-91… hit 93 a couple of times… slider 82… 76 curve… gave up 7 runs in 6.2…

24. Victor Black - Dallas Baptist - A 41st-round pick by the Mets out of Amarillo (Texas) High in 2006… fastball consistently hits 95… sitting 93-96… Over his first 14 games this year, Black is 6-3, 3.80 with 91 strikeouts and 36 walks over 85 innings.

25. Bryan Berglund - Royal HS… 6-4, 185… committed to Loyola Marymount… excellent slider, 80-82, sharp break…

26. Andrew Carraway – Virginia… 2008: as starter: 4-3, 4.06, 87Ks… career: 13-3, 3.44, 34BB, 172

27. Blake Smith - California… Junior… 6-2, 220… on Wallace Watch List… pitched this summer for USA National team… 2008: 3-0, 3.80, 36Ks, 21.1 IP… great hitter

28. Daniel Renken – CS Fullerton… thru 5/6: 2.27 in 75.1IP

29. Jerry Sullivan – Oral Roberts… junior… 6-4, 200, R/R… 2008: 9-2 record with a 3.88 ERA in 18 appearances and 15 starts

30. Brooks Pounder – Temecula Valley HS… 5-11, 150… R/R…

31. Eric Pettis – UC Irvine…6-2, 200… 2008: 15 saves… 28 relief appearances… 1.76 ERA, 4-2, 46K/41.0 IP… one of the five semifinalists for the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) Stopper of the Year award.

32. Matt Vaughn – Clemson… senior… 6-3, 215, R/R… 2008: 1-2, 3.15, 11 saves… 3-year career: 5-3, 3.98, 12 saves, 59 appearances

33. Trent Stevenson – Brophy College Prep HS (AZ)… 6-5…

34. Tim Clubb – Missouri State… Junior… R/R… 6-2, 190… 2008 MVC Pitcher of the Year… 2008: 11-0, 2.52 ERA, 82K, 103.2 IP… known for his command… fastball only hits high 80s…

35. Keyvius Sampson - Forest HS; Ocala, FL. 6′1, 180… fastball in 90-92 range… has hit 95… excellent mechanics… curve in mid-60s.. committed to FSU.

36. Madison Younginer - Mauldin HS; Simpsonville, SC. 6′3, 190… 91-94 fastball… 75 mph curve… over past 2 years: 6-1-1… verbally committed to Clemson…

37. Louis Coleman - LSU… 6-4, 190, S/R, senior… was drafted in the 14th round by the Redskins in the 2008 draft… was also drafted in the 28th round of the 2006 draft by the Braves… will be primary reliever in 2009… thru 5/6: 2.71 in 76.1 IP…

38. Trevor Cahill - In October 2008, Baseball America had him as the 4th overall pick in the draft…

39. Kyle Bellamy - Miami… junior… 6-5, 220… 2nd team Rivals All-American… many consider the top relief pitcher in draft… over 2 years: 53 G, 90K/72.2 IP, 1.24 K/IP… 2008: 1.86

40. Colvin, Brody - More HS, Lafayette, La.

41. Bobby Gagg – Coastal Carolina… 6-0, 215, R/R… 2008: 6-3, 3.28 in 14 starts, 54Ks/85IP

42. Mike Belfiore – Boston College – Closer…

43. Joe Kelly – – UC Riverside… 6-1, 178… junior… R/R… – closer… 9 saves for season, 5.33 ERA… 29 hits 25.1 IP, 18Ks… coming on in May…FB sits at 96, touches 99… average 81-85 slider…

44. Nick Gaudi – Pepperdine… 6-4, 202, R/R, senior… summer 2008: BA ranked #10 Northwood League prospect… 1.35, 31/3 K/BB, 13 saves… 2008: named to the Stopper of the Year Midseason Watch List… 15 saves, 29 appearances, 2.68

45. Luke Demko - Rhode Island… senior… 6-6, 290, R/R… So far in 2009: Tallied seven strikeouts in 2.1 innings of relief to earn his first win of the season against NC State on Feb. 20... Earned his first save of the season pitching one inning in a 3-0 victory over No. 8 Miami (Fla.)... Pitched two scoreless innings against Fairfield to earn his second save of the season on March 5…

46. Daniel Webb – Okaloosa-Walton CC (FL) – 6-3, 215, R/R

47. Colby Holmes – Conway HS (SC)… 5-11/190/R/R… fastball has hit 94… arm action excellent… curve in high 70s… change 78… committed to South Carolina… projects as closer… rated by Baseball America as No. 9 best high school prospect at 2009 Under Armour Preseason All-America Tournament… rated No. 4 best high school player in the state of South Carolina by Diamond Prospects… rated No. 7 best high school player in the state of South Carolina by PG Crosschecker… played on 2008 17-U Diamond Devils summer team that won the 17-U World Wood Bat Association National Championships as well as the Continental Amateur Baseball Association 18-U Wood Bat World Series

48. Aj Griffin - San Diego… junior… 6-5, 215, R/R… 2008: 29 appearances, 1.96 in 48.0 IP… 14 saves Louisville Slugger 3rd team A/A.

49. Chris Fetter - Michigan… Senior… 6-8, 230 R/R… All-America candidate… 2008: career 13-5 in Big-10… carrer 161 Ks… 16 games in 2008, 14 starts – 10 wins, 2.47, .209 OBA… 4/27: names Big-10 pitcher of the week: 2nd in league in Ks, 2.18…



50. Matt Graham - Oak Ridge HS; Spring, TX. 6′4, 215… very raw… mid-90 fastball … right now, he’s a one pitch pitcher… very slow worker… rated as one of the top 5 prep pitchers this year… basically a thrower that needs to be taught how to pitch… a project.

51. Tim Boyce - Rhode Island… 6-2, 183, R/R… RS Junior… So far in 2009: Stuck out seven batters in four innings against NC State on Feb. 20... Tallied seven K's with just four hits to earn his first win of the season against Duquesne on Feb. 28… 2008: 0.89 ERA, 5 saves.

52. Christian Bergman – UC Irvine… 3/28/2009: 8.0IP, 0ER vs. #10 UC

53. Todd Roth - Penn… freshman… 6-2/195, R/R… 2008: 14 games, 11 starts, 4-5, 2.32

54. Scott Griggs - San Ramon Valley H.S. (CA.)… low-90’s fastball that has hit 95… from BA 5/8: Griggs took the mound for his San Ramon Valley High team in mid-April against Crespi High and got a no-decision in a game his team eventually won during a tournament in San Luis Obispo. The right-hander went five innings, giving up two runs on two hits and four walks while striking out seven. He's gone 2-2 for the year with a 3.00 ERA and has struck out 35 in 28 innings, though he's also walked 24

55. Garrett Gould – 6-3, 190… Maize H.S. (Kansas)… member of underallamerica team… 12-6 curve…

56. Justin Sarratt - Clemson… junior… 5-9, 170… excellent control… All-ACC academic team… 2008: 2-2, 4.34 in 27 appearances… 4-6-9: named ACC POW: beat #1 ranked Georgia… retired 17 batters in a row.

57. Shawn Tolleson – Baylor… sat out 2007 with TJS… sophomore… 6-2, 225, 2009 Baseball America No. 23 MLB Draft Prospect (college). 2008: 6-4, 5.06

58. Jake Morgan - Mississippi… sophomore… R/R, 6-1, 230… 2008: 19 appearances, 41.1 IP, 38K, 14BB, 3.70

59. Daniel Tuttle - Senior, Randleman HS; Randleman, NC. 6′2, 185… in 90-92 range… has hit 93… good curve… has a plus-slider… slight mechanics problem… only medium size… low ¾ delivery…

60. Justin Robichaux - Louisiana-Lafayette… junior… R/R, 6-2, 205… honor roll… 2008: 9 saves… 21 appearances, 19H, 31.1 IP

61. Nate Garcia - Santa Clara… Junior… 6-0, 210,,, plays outfield also… 200*; 14 appearances, 13 starts… 86.1 IP, 75 K, 3.65 ERA

62. David Hale – Princeton… 2008: 9 pitching starts and 24 games as either OF or DH… 2-4, 5.04, 44.2 IP

63. Clayton Ehlert - Texas A&M… Junior… 6-1/195/R/R… 2008: 16 games, 11 starts, 6-2, 3.41, 4.8 L/BB… 48 K, 10 BB, 69 IP

64. Ryan Buch - Monmouth… Junior… 6-3, 195, R/R… 2007 Northeast Conference Rookie of the Year… very good curveball… 2nd straight season named to Brooks Wallace Watch List

65. Scott Swinson - Maryland… Junior… 6-1, 185, R/R… weekend ace… plus fastball, excellent change-up, breaking ball… 2008: 13 stars, 5 wins, no-hitter, 71Ks

66. Mike Ojala - Rice… Junior… 6-3, 195… good breaking ball… 2008: 5-0 in 12 starts… 10.6K/9… 3.2 K/BB

67. Andrew Robinson - Georgia Tech… Junior… 6-1, 182, R/R… live fastball, good slider, changup… long relief pitcher… 2008: 33 appearances, 0.86 K/IP, 4-2.

.
68. Steven Mazur - Norte Dame… Junior… 5-11, 195, R/R… sharp slider… sTrike thrower… mid-80’s… summer 09: 5-0, 3 saves, 0.99 in 24 appearances…

69. Brandon McClurg - Lipscomb… Senior… 5-11, 175, R/R… 200* 6-5, 2.70, 69 Ks 76.0 IP

70. Mike Nesseth - Nebraska… Sophomore… 6-5, 220, R/R… 2008 #2 prospect in Northwoods League… BA #63 prospect for 2009 college draft… 2008: 4-1, 4 saves, 3.58

71. Colin Bates - North Carolina… RS sophomore… 6-1, 170, R/R… 2008: 27 games… 2.78, 55.0 IP, 57Ks, 2.9:1 K/BB

72. Mike Nihsen - Creighton… Junior… 6-3, 200, R/R… 2008: 2.30 ERA, 14 starts… 70.1 IP, .231 OBA, all-star Northwoods League.

73. Nick McCully - Coastal Carolina… 5-11, 195 Freshman… named Big South Preseason Player of the Year… 2008: 10-3, 3.63, 24 appearances, 89.1 IP, 72K

74. Casey Upperman - Notre Dame Prep HS (AZ)… 6-0, 175, R/R… average size makes him project as RP… fastball in high 80s… has hit 91… quality change…

75. Bo O’dell - FSU… senior… 6-3, 210, R/R… 2008: 3.60, 21 appearances… went 5-1 as starter…

76. Mark Grbavac - Oregon State… Senior… 6-0, 185, R/R… summer: 11 appearances in Northwoods League, 1-1, 4.50… 2008: 22 appearances, 4-1, 3.61

77. Willy Kesler - New Mexico… Junior… 6-0, 215, R/R… started 2008 4-0, but had emergency appendectomy after that… then, season ending TJS… 1,90 ERA

78. Kyle Thebeau - Texas A&M… Senior… 6-1/195/R/R… first team All-Big 12… 2008: 6-3, 2.12, 33 appearances, .206 OBA

79. David Hale - Princeton… 2008: 9 pitching starts and 24 games as either OF or DH… 2-4, 5.04, 44.2 IP

80. Andrew Doyle - Oklahoma… junior… 6-3, 210, R/R… 2008: all Big-12 team… 9 wins, 72 Ks

81. Nick Karow - Furman… Junior… 6-2, 205, R/R… cut fastball go-to pitch… also plays catcher and fist base… 2008: consensus 2nd team All-Souther Conference relief pitcher… 5-0, 3.71, 9 saves

82. Chase Reid - Vanderbilt… sophomore… 6-3, 200, L/R… 2008: 4-0, 4.30 in 21 relief appearances…

83. Zach Von Tersch - Georgia Tech… Junior… 6-5, 215, R/R… 2008 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District III Third Team… three pitches… drafted in the 38th round of the 2006 draft by Washington… 2008: 7-5, 4.33

84. Bradon Tullis – Skagit Valley (Wash.) C.C. … 6-2, 190… first 28 innings in 2009: 4-0, 0.33, 27K, 11BB… fastball 88-91… three quality pitches

85. Chase Dempsay - Houston… sophomore… 6-3, 200, R/R… 75. 2008 Rivals.com Freshman All-America First Team… 2008: set records by Cougar freshman with 11 saves and eight wins and ranks among the C-USA individual leaders both categories

86. Clinton Cox - New Mexico… Senior… 6-2, 215, R/R… 2008: 2nd team all-Mountain West… 26 appearances, 4 saves, 32K, 44.1 IP, 3-1, 3.86.

87. Ty Pryor - North Florida… Sophomore… 6-3, 205… 2008: 16 appearances… 37Ks/59.1 IP…

88. Matt Thompson - San Diego – 6-4, 195, R/R…

89. Steve Fischback – Cal Poly – 6-2, 200, R/R

90. Jorden Merry - Washington… senior… 6-1, 190, R/R… named to all-Pac 10 team… drafted by White Sox in 14th round of 2008 draft… 3.61 ERA… .233 OBA

91. Derek Ward - Louisiana-Monroe… Senior… 2008: 3.38, 7 saves, 28 appearances

92. Jeffrey Inman - Stanford… Junior… 6-2, 185, R/R… 2008: 7-2, 4.27, 71.2 IP, .246 OBA

93. Travis Starling - Texas A&M… Junior… 5-10, 180, R/R… 2008: first-team All-Big 12 selection as a relief pitcher, ranked third in the league with nine saves… 5-0, 2.74

94. Parker Bangs - South Carolina… Sophomore… 6-3, 210, R/R… 2008: 18 games as reliever… 3-3, 27.1 IP, 2 saves, 34K, .217 OBA

95. Daniel Bradshaw - LSU… Freshman… 6-1, 201, R/R… 2008 SEC Freshmen Academic Honor Roll… 2008: 26 G,2 starts, 4-5, 4.12

96. Connor Hoehn - Alabama… Sophomore… 6-2, 200… was drafted by the Brewers in the 21st round of the 2007 draft…

97. Kyle Morrison - Wagner… Junior… 6-1, 190… Named Third-Best Prospect In The Atlantic Collegiate Baseball League (ACBL) By Baseball America… 2008: 5-5, 57K, 3.99 ERA.

98. Austin Hyatt - Alabama… senior… 6-3, 205, R/R… 5th year senior… excellent control… 2008: 17 appearances, 14 starts, 93.1 IP, 80 K… 10-5, 4.26 over last 3 years

99. Madison Younginer - Mauldin HS… 6-3, 175… low 90s, touches 94… sharp 12-6 curve… past 2 years: 6-1-1… verbally committed to Clemson.

100. Miquel Valcarcel - St. John’s… freshman… 6-3, 200… was 32nd round draft pick in 2006 by the Rockies… 2008: 19-3, 1.32, 227K, 150 IP

101. Parker Thomas - Mt. Tabor HS… 6-5, 227

102. Josh Dahl - Deer Valley HS (AZ)… 6-0/200, R/R… low 90s fastball… tops 93… money pitch is curve… projected as a 2-pitch relief specialist…

103. Tyler Bess -- Morehead State… senior… 4-6-9: named Ohio Valley POW: allowed 1 run in 10.2 IP

104. Jason Kramer - Hawaii… senior… named WAC POW week 4-6-9: 2-3, 3.00, 48.0 IP

105. Cole White – New Mexico… top Lobos relief ace in 2009… through 4-7-09: 15 appearances, 1-0, 1.12, 30K, 16BB, 3 saves, 24.0 IP.

106. Jake Hale – Ohio State – senior… named Big Ten pitcher of the week April 20 after saving three games in a row the prior week… Stopper of the Year candidate… has not given up an earned run in April

107. Jake Barrett – Desert Ridge HS (AZ)… 6-4, 235, R/R… fastball in 90-94 range… power curve 74-77… split 75-76… emotional… a little heavy… as of 4/23: 5-2, 2.42, 60K/34IP…

108. Brad Stillings – Kent State – threw 9-inning no-hitter on 4-11 against Toledo. April 13: named the NCBWA pitcher of the week… 3.1 IP, 9 H, 9 ER on 4/25

109. Joshua Fields – Univ of Georgia – 6-0, 183, R/R

110. Chad Thompson – El Toro HS; Trabuco Canyon, CA Specs: 6′8, 215,… has hit 94… good downward plane… clean delivery… will undergo TJS May 1st

111. Tom Buske – 4/25:named Big-10 pitcher of the week: season era: 2.34

112. Jordon Cooper – Shelbyville Central HS, TN… 6-3, 185, B/R

113. Sean Black – Seton Hall – 6-5, 195, R/R

114. David Carpenter – New Mexico – 6-3, 185, R/R

115. Jeff Inman – Stanford – 6-2, 185, R/R…

116. Tom Lemke – Northwest Christian HS (AZ) – 6-7, 2-5, R/R….

117. Jorge Reyes – Oregon State – 6-2, 175, R/R

118. Kyle Smith – Kent State – 6-6, 195, R/R

119. Brian Pearl – Washington – 6-1, 190, R/R

120. Jonathan Garrett – Tulane – senior… 5/4: named C-USA pitcher of the week: beat Southern Miss - improved record to 5-1

121. Pat Lehman – George Washington

122. Phillip Irwin – Mississippi

123. Jordan Flasher – George Mason

124. Eric Leahmann – (unlisted) – Stephen F. Austin – senior… 5/18: named Southland pitcher of the week… 4-0, 1.79 over last 4 starts…

125. Joe Gardner – (unlisted) – UC Santa Barbara – 5/18 from MiLB: Gardner showed just how effective he can be in a start against Long Beach State. The big right-hander tossed a two-hit shutout, walking one and striking out five. For the season, the UCSB ace has gone 7-1 with a 3.40 ERA in 13 starts. Over 84 2/3 IP, Gardner has allowed 79 hits and 31 walks while striking out 69