7/07 fr. www.projectprospect.com: If you want your kid to be a massive power hitter, name him Bryce. Bryce Brentz is the No. 1 power hitting prospect from the four-year college ranks. Brentz lead all of Division-I in batting average, slugging percentage, home runs, and total bases all that ads up to a triple slash line of .465/.535/.930 with 28 home runs. While MTSU plays in a strong hitter park (120 PF, BoydsWorld.com), Brentz compliments his outstanding power with very solid zone judgement. Brentz walked 11.4% of the time last year while striking out in just 11.8% of his plate appearances. A college center fielder, Brentz gets knocked some for his defense as some think he may wind up at first base in the pros. Wherever he plays, his bat could be special.
7/09 fr. Keith Law/ www.espn.com : “he was by far the best player on Team USA".
7/13: As of July 13, hitting .476 for Team USA.
7-21: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - 2nd Edition - July 21, 2009 by Scouting The Sports http://scoutingthesports.com/?p=3632 - 8. Baltimore Orioles - Bryce Brentz Outfielder Middle Tennessee State - -In his first year, Brentz was a collegiate freshman All-American. In his second year, Brentz’s average actually rose and so did his homer run total. He finished with a .465/.535/.930 line in 230 at-bats, slugging 28 home runs, 19 doubles, and a pair of triples. Brentz has the most raw power in a draft class which is already loaded with power, and has incredible bat command and even better bat speed. Brentz can easily play any of the corner outfield positions with decent range and an above average arm. Teams could also look into developing him into a first baseman.
9-16: From www.baseballamrica.com : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 14. Bryce Brentz, of Middle Tennessee State
9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: Mock Draft Version 1.0 – 4th pick overall - Bryce Brentz, OF - Middle Tennesse State
9-28: From http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: - Mock Draft Version 2 - #8 pick overall - Bryce Brentz, OF - Middle Tennessee State - All Brentz does is hit every year. He is a perfect fit for Toronto and should be a middle of the order hitters for years to come. Toronto has actually done a very nice job developing pitching in their farm system and now David Cooper at 1B and Bryce Brentz in the OF could be a dangerous lineup to back these young arms.
10-5 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: 20. Atlanta Braves – Bryce Brentz, OF, Middle Tennessee – (3rd OF picked in draft) - There’s been a lot of hype around Brentz with his huge numbers, and my draft profile of him has been wildly popular. However, Brentz has his flaws, as pitch recognition continues to be a bit of a concern with him. Do we have another Jeff Francoeur on our hands? Not at all. But it’s just something to watch. On the plus side, he’s got big raw power, solid athleticism, and a plus arm for a corner outfield spot, so any team looking for a potential middle-of-the-order hitter will grab him. Atlanta can’t have guys like Matt Diaz, Garret Anderson, and Ryan Church forever if they expect to win.
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – #23 - Brian Brentz – 2nd Ofer on list
10-7: - from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Bryce Brentz, Middle Tennessee - Brentz is a corner outfielder with a plus arm who fits best long-term in right field. He’s got plus hit and power tools, and he’s probably got the highest ceiling of any college hitter in the 2010 class. Read more about Brentz here. Projected draft slot: Early- to mid-first round.
10-13 from www.mymlbdraft.com: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - #17 – (3rd OF picked) - Bryce Brentz
11-2 from www.perfectgame.com: - Future Scout Sully said: Here is my list of the Top 50 in the class. I have seen almost every one of these players. Went out to AFLAC for the week, saw team usa play, and went to many cape games: - 13-OF Bryce Brentz (1st OF on list)
11-3 from www.mlbresource.com: 3rd Mock draft – #15 - Bryce Brentz, OF - Middle Tennessee State - This is the compensation pick for signing LHP Matt Purke last year. I think the Rangers simply try and get the best hitter available with this pick and select the slugger that has done nothing but hit homeruns in college. (3rd OF on list)
11-17 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - 12. Cincinnati Reds- Bryce Brentz, OF, MTSU - Shuffled a lot on this pick, but ultimately settled on Brentz. All he has done since he entered college was mash. A true power hitter, Brentz has the ability to hit for power to all fields. With another big year at Middle Tennessee, Brentz will land himself in the middle of the first round. (1st OF picked)
11-18 from www.macksmets.blogspot.com: - 10 OF Brian Brentz – again, I like seasoned college vets over high schoolers and the top outfielder in this draft, IMO, is Brentz. (1st OF on list)
11-20 from www.draftamerica.com: - 7. New York (N) -- Bryce Brentz, OF, Mid. Tenn. St. The Mets tend to shy away from expensive selections, and Brentz could be a slot (or close to it) signing around here if organizations can't get comfortable with him as a top 10 pick given the offensive-friendly home park and inconsistent competition.
11-23 from www.deepleagues.com: - #7 - N.Y. Mets - Bryce Brentz (1B, Middle Tennessee State) (only 1B on list)
12-15 rom www.5tooltalk.com: Mock Draft – 1st round: - 24 Giants Bryce Brentz OF NCAA
12-20 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com – voyed to the 2010 MCBWA 1st team all-american squad
1-7-9: Morisato's 2010 MLB Mock Draft - Version 1.0 - 14th Overall – The Milwaukee Brewers - Bryce Brentz (CF/RF), Middle Tennessee State - Brentz was drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the 30th round of the 2007 draft as a pitcher, but has since become one of the best outfield prospects in the college ranks. Brentz’s bat is his best tool, as he will hit for average and should hit for above average power. He’s got excellent bat speed and fairly good pitch recognition. However, he is an overly aggressive hitter, which results in him striking out a lot. That is a concern in the long term. Defensively, Brentz profiles well as a right fielder, thanks to his range and his strong arm. He is going to get his knocks on his stats because he plays in a smaller conference. Still, he deserves to be ranked as one of the top college outfield talents available in this draft. With the Brewers seeking more youth in their outfield, and with their aggressive shopping of Corey Hart, this seems like a solid fit.
2010 MLB DRAFT MOCK DRAFT- 12/31/09 – www.jjscouting.com - 12. Cincinnati Reds- Bryce Brentz, OF, MTSU - Shuffled a lot on this pick, but ultimately settled on Brentz. All he has done since he entered college was mash. A true power hitter, Brentz has the ability to hit for power to all fields. With another big year at Middle Tennessee, Brentz will land himself in the middle of the first round.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #10 San Diego Bryce Brentz OF Middle Tennessee State 6'0" 185 R,R
1-15-0 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 22. Texas Rangers – Bryce Brentz, OF, Middle Tennessee – Brentz is a bit of a message board sensation that even people with average interest in the draft have heard about. Looking at his stats can do that. However, with reports surfacing that Brentz has possible makeup and work ethic issues, I was generous in placing him even as high as this. He’s an all bat corner outfielder that’s faced limited competition, though the bat is truly special at times. If he has another monster year and answers some questions, he’ll go higher, but for now he slots well here as the Rangers’ second first-round pick. Previously: #20.
1-15-9 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - #31 Tampa Bay Rays: OF Bryce Brentz – Middle Tennessee State - Super Nintendo numbers (.465/.535/.930) and comparisons to Nick Markakis’s two-way skill set have gotten Brentz a disproportionate amount of pub when compared to other draft prospects, but, hey, any time a casual baseball fan knows the name of a draft prospect months in advance we have to consider that a strong indicator of the rapid growth of MLB draft coverage. Brentz has special bat speed and should be an above-average defender in right field professionally. I’d love to take closer look at the game-by-game breakdown of Brentz’s ‘09 numbers to see the types of pitchers he is doing the most of his damage off of, though the sample sizes involved may not yield any kind of meaningful conclusions. With six months between now and then draft, I’m sure I’ll be able to delve a little deeper into Brentz’s numbers one way or another.
3-20 from http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100318&content_id=8828004&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb - Brentz has proven he's not a one-year wonder. After his outstanding sophomore campaign, he was invited to join Team USA. Playing alongside players from "bigger" conferences, Brentz was hardly in awe, hitting .366 with a .563 slugging percentage in 71 at-bats. It was a summer that filled him with even more confidence. Brentz has continued to turn around pitches of all sorts with regularity. After a slightly slow start to the 2010 season, Brentz was up to a .382 average with seven homers, 15 RBIs and a .750 SLG through 16 games. That might sound like it pales in comparison to his ridiculous 2009 season, but at this point last year, he was at about the same rate, if not lower, across the board.
4-1 from http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/01/mtsus-brentz-to-miss-3-weeks/#more-24993 - According to a report by Aaron Fitt of Baseball America, Bryce Brentz will miss the next 2-3 weeks with a fracture in his right ankle. He substained the injury during warmups last week for a game on Friday against South Alabama. He will not be traveling with the team this weekend to Florida Atlantic as he will stay in Murfreesboro to get treatment. This injury is tough news for Middle Tennessee State as they were expected to compete for the Sun Belt title this year but have gotten off to a 5-4 conference mark. If the Blue Raiders are going to win the Sun Belt this season, it will be on the back of Brentz’s bat and his pitching.
4-2 from: - http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/draft/?p=2050 - Bryce Brentz, of, Middle Tennessee State - [Editor's note: This interview took place before Brentz's recent injury.] "He's so aggressive that he gets himself into trouble at times. I know there was a four- or five-game stretch there where he was tied for the career home run record at Middle Tennessee and it looked like every at-bat he was trying to set it. And he doesn't need to be that aggressive to hit the ball out. He has tremendous bat speed and a good swing and he gets himself out when he gets too aggressive. That's where I think a lot of the strikeouts are coming from. It's funny, as he's kind of piled up the strikeouts, I went back through some of my game notes through last year and this year, and I don't think I've seen him strike out once when I was in the park. He's got very good hand-eye coordination and he's very strong. He's not your prototypical 6-3, 6-4 outfielder with the big size, but he's very strong from the elbows to the fingertips and has great bat speed. It's nice this year that's he's not having to be their Friday night guy because you can get a much better feel for him on defense. Last year, he was playing left field and he usually wouldn't take infield/outfield, you didn't see the arm strength there—but I've seen him up to 93 on the mound and he's a guy where it really translates out in the field. He's got a plus arm and it might even be a little bit better than that. I think he profiles in right field better than center field, but I would certainly send him out there in center and let him play off the position. He's going to go really good, I think."
4-16 from: - http://projectprospect.com/article/2010/04/15/2010-draft-class-update - Bryce Brentz went 0-1 with a strikeout in a mid-week tilt against in-state rival Vanderbilt. This one at-bat was entirely unremarkable save for the fact that Brentz made this pinch hitting appearance with a broken foot. The Middle Tennessee star outfielder had missed the past two weeks with a fractured ankle but still hobbled up to the plate with the tying run on in hopes of pulling off his best Kirk Gibson impression. While Brentz’s at-bat ended much less dramatically, no one can ever doubt his competitiveness or toughness. Ever.
4-19 from: http://www.baseballrumormill.com/2010/04/mlb-draft-notes-saturday-review-417/#more - Middle Tennessee State's Bryce Brentz continues to rebound well from his injury hitting a grand-slam, his 10th home run of the year, as part of a 3-for-5, seven RBI effort against Troy University
4-27 from: - http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/MLB_Draft - Middle Tennessee State outfielder/pitcher Bryce Brentz returned to action April 13 after suffering a hairline fracture in his ankle in late March. He struck out as a pinch hitter against Vanderbilt in his first at-bat. Brentz (pictured) missed 11 games because of the injury. Before he got hurt, he was batting .354 with eight homers and 17 RBIs. But scouting directors who evaluate players with injury concerns pay as much attention to how the players rebounds off the injury as the severity of the injury itself. In the eight games after that pinch-hitting appearance, Brentz went 9-for-32 (.281) with three homers, 14 RBIs, 10 runs scored, six walks and two doubles.
2. Josh Sale – Bishop Blanchet HS (WA) – 6-1, 195, L/L …
8-10: From www.baseballamerica.com – Area Code Games - Sale homered twice in last year’s Area Code Games and he picked up where he left off on Wednesday night, blasting another round tripper out of spacious Blair Field.
8-19: Jeff Sullivan from the AFLAC Games: - Sale is one of the top hitters in the country. It is unsure where he will play defensively but his bat should play anywhere. He went 0-1 with a walk during the gam. I wouldn’t be surprised if by draft time, he is the top high school hitter in the draft.
9-16: From www.baseballamerica.com : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 10. Josh Sale, of Bishop Blanchet HS, Seattle
10-5 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 24. San Francisco Giants – Josh Sale, OF, Bishop Blanchet HS (WA) – (4th OF picked in draft) - Sale’s the type of kid that could absolutely explode into top draft material with a huge spring season. He’s a corner outfielder in the truest sense of the word, but the bat’s legit. A lefty hitter, he’s got all the makings of a middle-of-the-order hitter, and he can put an absolute charge into a ball. The Giants need those type of hitters, and they’re quietly building a solid nucleus of young hitting prospects to go with their usual glut of young pitching. A lineup including Josh Sale in a corner outfield spot could be special.
10-7: - from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Josh Sale, Bishop Blanchet HS (WA)
Not a lot of great hitters come into the pros as preps from the state of Washington, but Sale’s got that potential. A lefty at the plate and a corner outfield prospect, Sale’s got good power potential and a good hit tool, and he’s made himself into a household name in scouting circles. Projected draft slot: Mid-first to early-second round.
10-13 from www.mymlbdraft.com: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - #30 – (4th OF picked) – Josh Sale
11-2 from www.perfectgame.com: - Future Scout Sully said: Here is my list of the Top 50 in the class. I have seen almost every one of these players. Went out to AFLAC for the week, saw team usa play, and went to many cape games: - 27- OF Josh Sale (5th OF on list)
11-3 from www.mlbresource.com: 3rd Mock draft – #31 - Josh Sale, OF - Bishop Blanchet (WA) - Sale has gone pretty quietly through all the draft talk so far. However, he has outstanding pop and gives the Rays a plus bat for their system. (5th OF on list)
11-9-9 from www.examiner.com: - Top 15 High School Draft Prospects - 6. Josh Sale, of
Bishop Blanchet HS, Seattle
College Commitment: Gonzaga - Equipped with advanced plate discipline and a smooth, balanced swing, Sale may have the best present hittability in the class. (2nd OF on list)
11-17 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - 23. Florida Marlins- Josh Sale, OF, Bishop Blanchet HS(WA) - Possibly the best pure hitter in the whole 2010 HS class. Sale is a left handed power bat that could be a middle of the order hitter for a long time. He is destined for either left field or right field, and he is not that athletic, but the bat is a special one. (5th OF picked)
1-7-9: Morisato's 2010 MLB Mock Draft - Version 1.0 - 29th Overall – The Los Angeles Angels (Compensation For John Lackey) - Josh Sale (COF), Washington High School - I’m not really all that wild about high school corner outfielders. Usually, the guy really has to hit or he’s screwed. Sale, however, looks like he’ll do the former. Sale has the potential to develop plus power, and has shown the knoack for making contact. He isn’t a burner, and will likely move over to left field as he matures, but if everything goes well, he could become your classic cleanup hitter.
2010 MLB DRAFT MOCK DRAFT- 12/31/09 – www.jjscouting.com - 23. Florida Marlins- Josh Sale, OF, Bishop Blanchet HS(WA) - Possibly the best pure hitter in the whole 2010 HS class. Sale is a left handed power bat that could be a middle of the order hitter for a long time. He is destined for either left field or right field, and he is not that athletic, but the bat is a special one.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #28 Boston Josh Sale OF Bishop Blanchet HS, Wa. 6'0" 205 L,R
1-15-0 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 14. Milwaukee Brewers – Josh Sale, OF, Bishop Blanchet HS (WA) – There are some baseball players who just seem born to hit. Sale (pronounced Sally) doesn’t have the best athleticism, the best arm, or the best body in the 2010 class, but he might have the best pure bat. That’s caught the attention of numerous clubs, and the Brewers are likely one of them. Milwaukee doesn’t shy away from prep hitters, and they took a far less refined one in Max Walla in the second round in 2009. Sale shouldn’t come with a high price tag, as he’s only committed to nearby Gonzaga, so he’ll get drafted on talent alone. Previously: #24.
1-15-9 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - #26 Colorado Rockies: OF Josh Sale – Bishop Blanchett HS (WA)- Too low? Probably, but I’m still having a hard time getting an actual read on where Sale’s prospect stock currently stands. What I do know is that the man is a hitter. He hits, hits, hits, and hits. He isn’t a slug in the field, but many scouts still believe that he probably profiles best as a big league leftfielder. Boy, first Ragira and now Sale; I’m starting to realize that Goldstein is going to have it really easy with this year’s high school class. If he needs a head start on his fun facts for Sale’s future top 11 piece, he can take the following tidbits free of charge: Sale’s full name is Joshua Ezkiel Gasu Sale and his dad is a native Samoan famous for being a champion power lifter.
5-1 from: http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452824/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - Josh Sale, OF, Bishop Blanchet High School, Seattle, Washington - Committed to Gonzaga, the 6-1, 205 pound Sale is rates as the top high school hitter in the draft class by many experts, at least based on present ability. He already shows excellent power due to plus-plus bat speed, and should hit for average as well. The rest of his game is not as well-rounded. His running speed and throwing arm are okay, but he projects more as a left fielder than anything else, and doesn't have much remaining projection in his body. He certainly doesn't have the all-around tools of Austin Wilson, for example. Projecting Sales in the draft is tough: he could go anywhere from 10 to 30 depending on how teams balance out his hitting vs. his other tools and what his bonus demands look like.
5-8 from: - http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/MLB_Draft - Indeed, the spelling of Josh Sale's last name mirrors Chris Sale's, but it's pronounced "sull-ee." His middle name, Gasu, is pronounced Nasu, an echo to his Samoan ethnicity. His mature 6-0, 205-pound body is solid and already major-league ready, echoing his father's powerlifting past. Make no mistake, though, Josh Sale is no one's replica. He's blazed his trail in Seattle as one the best prep baseball players in Washington state history. "He grows on you," one NL West scout said. "You're not normally expecting hitters as advanced as him to come out of the Northwest. Especially as a prep player. But when you watch him, you see he's a lot closer than most high schoolers." Sale generates plus power with extremely quick hands and bat speed. He also has excellent bat control, mainly due to his considerable strength. He has some swing-and-miss in him, but that's correctable
3. Austin Wilson – Harvard-Westlake H.S. (CA.) – 6-4, 200 - has most power of the draft… not polished, but who cares… hit two 500+ HRs at Florida showcase, both to different parts of the field. One scout said he’s a “young Adam Jones”… 2008 Area Code games alumni… projects out on corners… average speed… excellent arm… star in batting practice…
7-21: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - 2nd Edition - July 21, 2009 by Scouting The Sports http://scoutingthesports.com/?p=3632 - - 3. San Diego Padres - Austin Wilson Outfielder Harvard-Westlake High School, Los Angeles, California - The Padres have holes at almost every position and need a superstar to build on. Local boy Austin Wood will be a good guy to start the rebuilding process. While he is unpolished, this AFLAC All-American has shown his that he has the most natural batting practice power in the 2010 draft At a showcase in Florida (where he was the only Junior invited) he hit a few batting practice balls over 500 feet, each one to different parts of the field. Wilson also has above average speed, stealing 12 of 13 bases last season, and a fantastic arm. With a .526 batting average as well as 6 home runs, 27 runs scored and 27 RBI’s in only 77 official at-bats
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com: 60-70 arm strength, runs well underway, made contact, showed some power in BP, didn't display it in 4 games however. Looks great in a uniform, definitely need to see again.
8-6: From www.baseballamerica.com: - Already a chiseled 6-foot-4 and 200 pounds, Wilson is a physical specimen who stands out on the field. He's an average runner but has a cannon for an arm, and he should have the size, athleticism and tools to be a special player.
8-10: From www.baseballamerica.com – Area Code Games - Wilson packs a plus arm and provocative power in his 6-foot-4, 213-pound build. He’s a superlative athlete as well, reeling off a 6.79 60 and a 35.4 vertical jump.
8-15: from XMLBScout on www.perfectgame.com: certainly displayed the power and some loft in his swing in the game, other than just in BP. Some of the tv talent experts were fishing out there on comparable current ML players, but the one that sticks out to me is a throwback era player, Ellis Valentine, very similar hitting approaches, throwing ability, flat out running speed.
9-16: From www.baseballamerica.com : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 6. Austin Wilson, of Harvard-Westlake HS, Los Angeles
9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: Mock Draft Version 1.0 – 18th pick overall - Austin Wilson, OF - Harvard-Westlake HS (CA)
9-28: From http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: - Mock Draft Version 2 - #14 pick overall - Austin Wilson, OF - Westlake-Harvard HS (CA) - If Wilson didn't have enough on his resume for this draft he certainly went to the top of the pile with his blast at Wrigley Field in the Under Armour Showcase. He showed off that the transition to wood will be no problem and that his bat is ready for pro ball. He also has a cannon for an arm and can run. I would not be surprised if Wilson climbs higher than this in the draft.
10-5 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: 17. Tampa Bay Rays – Austin Wilson, OF, Harvard-Westlake HS (CA) – (2nd OF picked in draft) - There’s been some hype about Wilson being a top five pick, but he just doesn’t have the polish to be that type of player quite yet. There’s not a lot of argument about whether Wilson is the best prep outfielder in the draft, as most scouts would say he is. However, there’s some question about where he might line up. His build is huge, he’s got plus raw power, and a plus-plus arm, but he needs to work on pitch recognition, and he’s not really a long-term center field prospect to most. If he falls this far, the Rays would probably be delighted to land him.
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – #5 – Austin Wilson – 1st Ofer on list
10-7: - from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Austin Wilson, Harvard Westlake HS (CA)
Big-time tools include plus raw power and a plus-plus arm. However, he’s probably a right fielder in the long-run, and not a lot of prep corner outfielders go incredibly high in the draft. His bat isn’t quite elite enough to warrant top five consideration like Donavan Tate could command a year ago, but Wilson’s got enough raw talent to lock himself into the first round for now. Projected draft slot: Mid-first to late-first round.
10-13 from www.mymlbdraft.com: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - #16 (2nd OF picked) - Austin Wilson
11-2 from www.perfectgame.com: - Future Scout Sully said: Here is my list of the Top 50 in the class. I have seen almost every one of these players. Went out to AFLAC for the week, saw team usa play, and went to many cape games: - 22- OF Austin Wilson (4th OF on list)
11-3 from www.mlbresource.com: 3rd Mock draft – #14 - Austin Wilson, OF - Westlake-Harvard HS (CA) - I liked Wilson going in this same spot in my previous mock and I think the Brewers are a perfect fit. They have a very nice farm system but could use a few young outfielders. (2nd OF on list)
11-9-9 from www.examiner.com: - Top 15 High School Draft Prospects - 5. Austin Wilson, of
Harvard-Westlake HS, Los Angeles
College Commitment: Stanford - An athletic specimen at 6-foot-4, 200 pounds, Wilson has plus power potential and plus arm strength that will play well in right field. (1st OF on list)
11-17 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - 18. Seattle Mariners- Austin Wilson, OF, Harvard-Westlake HS(CA) - The best high school outfielder in the draft. Wilson is a good athlete with an absolute cannon from the outfield. Wilson already has a major league ready outfield arm. He has some good power, and those balls he hits in the gaps should turn into home runs down the road. (2nd OF picked)
11-18 from www.macksmets.blogspot.com: - 26. OF Austin Wilson – Wilson is the top high school outfielder. (3rd OF on list)
11-20 from www.draftamerica.com: - 28. Los Angeles (N) -- Austin Wilson, OF, Harvard Westlake HS (CA). It could be expensive to pry Wilson away from his commitment to Stanford, but the hometown Dodgers could roll the dice on the talented right fielder and his plus power potential.
11-23 from www.deepleagues.com: - #15 - Texas Rangers Austin Wilson (OF, Los Angeles, CA) (2nd OF on list)
1-7-9: Morisato's 2010 MLB Mock Draft - Version 1.0 - 22th Overall – The Texas Rangers - Austin Wilson (CF), California High School - Wilson is a top flight outfield talent that has been mentioned as a top 20 pick. Wilson has a large frame, and projects to hit for significant power. He also has a strong arm in the outfield. However, Wilson has two big flaws. First, his range will decrease enough as he matures that he’ll have to move to right field. Second, Wilson lacks plate discipline, and will strike out a lot. Overall, though, the talent is here for him to become a run producing outfielder, similar to Jermaine Dye. Because this pick is protected, the Rangers will roll the dice here on Wilson, provided he falls here.
2010 MLB DRAFT MOCK DRAFT- 12/31/09 – www.jjscouting.com - 18. Seattle Mariners- Austin Wilson, OF, Harvard-Westlake HS(CA) - The best high school outfielder in the draft. Wilson is a good athlete with an absolute cannon from the outfield. Wilson already has a major league ready outfield arm. He has some good power, and those balls he hits in the gaps should turn into home runs down the road.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #16 Chicago Cubs Austin Wilson OF Harvard-Westlake School, Ca. 6'4" 210 R,R
1-15-0 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 13. Chicago White Sox – Austin Wilson, OF, Harvard-Westlake HS (CA) – I had Wilson discounted a little in my first mock draft in October, but I now don’t see him dropping past some of the tool-hungry scouting departments in this section of the first round. Despite drafting Jared Mitchell and Trayce Thompson a year ago, the White Sox still have a place to pick a high-level future right fielder with plus-plus power potential in Wilson. The White Sox don’t have a lengthy history of drafting prep bats this high, but they didn’t have an opportunity to do so most years, so the logic is here. Previously: #17.
1-15-9 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - #12 Cincinnati Reds: OF Austin Wilson – Harvard Westlake HS (CA) - Honest to goodness, I had a dream last night that I finally published this mock. It was marvelous. After staring at this Word document for over ten days, it was a joy to finally rid my brain of the incessant, nagging thoughts of “who goes where?” and “is this guy ?” and “what’s the damn point of doing a mock over six months and a full amateur season before the actual event?” I hit the tiny PUBLISH button and breathed the sweetest sigh of relief known to man. Then, without warning, my dream turned into terrifying nightmare. The delight my dream-time self was feeling over getting this stinking mock done quickly turned to dread as I realized I forgot to include Austin Wilson. I checked, double-checked, triple-checked…and he was nowhere to be found. Apparently there was neither an edit nor a delete feature in my nightmare, so the omission of Wilson was forced to stand as an ugly black mark against my draft forecasting soul for all of eternity. Maybe I take all this draft stuff too seriously…
Wilson could be this year’s Donovan Tate. Wilson could be this year’s Brian Goodwin. I obviously lean much closer to the Tate side of things, but I’m a sucker for 6-4, 200 pound outfielders rocking the plus power/plus arm combo. The comps for Wilson range from silly (Dave Winfield) to topical (Andre Dawson) to “man, I feel old comparing high school kids to players I loved when I was 10″ (Juan Gonzalez, Moises Alou) to intriguingly ultra-modern and therefore ultra-hip (Mike Taylor, Mike Stanton) all the way to completely made up by me just now (Shawn Green, Ellis Burks). It goes without saying that Wilson hitting his ceiling would be blessed to have a career like any of the players listed above (minus the minor leaguers, I suppose), but they do provide some context into what has been said about Wilson’s upside as a prospect so far. The two current minor league comps stick out to me as particularly interesting; Mike Stanton is a comp that mixes Wilson’s most immediate “realistic” upside as top minor league prospect with an equally plausible estimation of his tools (power, arm, good enough speed, should be good defenders in the corner), and Mike Taylor’s name serves as a reminder that Stanford commits like Wilson are always a pain in the neck to get signed.
I was looking over the Cincinnati organizational depth chart to see what kind of future lineup the Reds could throw out if they decided to add Wilson into the mix. They’ve gotten so much good press this offseason as a team on the rise that I was curious to see what kind of future starting 8 they might be able to field. Instead of fleshing out the idea, I became distracted by one name. Todd Frazier. Now I’ve seen a lot of Mr. Frazier over the years, from his high school days right on through his junior year at Rutgers. Through those years, one thing in particular stood out to me about Frazier’s game. Get ready for some seriously hard hitting prospect analysis here. Ready? Sure? Todd Frazier could be Peyton Manning’s body double, if the need for such a thing ever arises. Saw him in high school, remember thinking he looked like he could be the long lost missing Manning brother. By his last year at Rutgers, he was no longer just a random no-name honorary Manning. No, he was Peyton Manning. He is Peyton Manning.
The Ohio high school pitcher I have going fourteenth overall may also make sense if you’re into regional ties impacting drafting strategy. If I had realized the connection beforehand, maybe I would have made Stetson Allie the pick here for the Reds. Maybe next time.
2-15 from www.baseballamerica.com: - Among the position players, the primary concern was the issue of Austin Wilson’s health. Wilson, a talented 6-foot-4, 200-pound outfielder from Harvard Westlake High in North Hollywood, suffered a stress fracture in his lower back last fall and has been out of action for several months. Prior to the game, Wilson assured me that his back was completely healed. The top position prospect in Southern California, Wilson ran well—6.78 by my stopwatch—popped a couple of BP homers and showed off his superlative arm in pregame action. He did seem a bit stiff, particularly when bending down for a ball. Wilson’s timing was obviously off, but that was an issue afflicting all of the hitters on Saturday.
5-1 from: http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452824/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - Austin Wilson, OF, Harvard Westlake High School, North Hollywood, California - Probably the toolsiest overall player in the high school class, Wilson features excellent power potential, decent speed, and an amazing throwing arm. He's 6-4, 215, and reminds scouts of players like Andre Dawson and Jermaine Dye. He's still somewhat raw as a hitter, but Wilson is extremely intelligent and has a strong work ethic, giving him a good shot at ironing out remaining flaws in his swing. He has a Stanford scholarship and is academically-oriented, giving him plenty of leverage on draft day. Toolswise he belongs in the Top Ten of the draft, but he could end up slipping towards the bottom of the first round if teams get worried about his bonus demands. Current speculation is that he's willing to sign if the money is right.
5-3 from: - http://baseballbeginnings.com/tag/austin-wilson - I’ve seen Austin Wilson from the summer to the fall and back to the spring. The raw power is there, and this guy will not be one-dimensional. The most common comparison is Andre Dawson, but let me tell you something: Wilson isn’t going to have to wait until the 11th round and then feel completely low-balled and screwed when he gets drafted the way Dawson did. No, Wilson will be lucky to get to the 11th pick.
4. Michael Choice – 2009: 4.13 11-HR 52-RBI UT Arlington -
7/9 fr. Keith Law www.espn.com: Michael Choice, OF, Texas-Arlington: He has below average speed and arm strength, so his only available defensive position is likely left field, but he has shown great power.
12-20 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com – voyed to the 2010 MCBWA 3rd team all-american squad
1-27-10 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - A quick look at the top 15 outfielders for the 2010 draft. #10- Michael Choice-Tx-Arlington
2-5: from www.collegebaseball360.com: Baseball America Pre-Season All American team: - Second Team - OF Michael Choice, Texas-Arlington
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 47th
http://www.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?topic_id=8080130&content_id=7243411 - Michael Choice – OF - Scouting Report - Hitting ability: Choice has some moving parts on his swing, which raises concerns about his overall hitting ability. It's worked for him thus far, but his mechanics will have to improve. Power: He has big-time raw power to all fields. Running speed: He has above-average speed, fringy plus once he's underway. Base running: He has very good instincts in all facets of the game, including base running. Arm strength: He has a solid arm in the outfield. Fielding: He's a solid outfielder whose instincts and speed play well. Range: He has decent range, but will likely move from center field to a corner outfield position in the future. Physical Description: Choice is stocky and barrel-chested with a thick trunk. He'll have to watch his body in the future. Medical Update: Healthy. Strengths: Big-time raw power, above-average speed and terrific feel for the game. Weaknesses: There are questions about his hitting mechanics, leading to concerns over his overall hitting ability. Summary: In a year that lacks a ton of big-name college hitters, players from smaller programs like Choice have a chance to shine, and he is taking advantage. Though he'll need work on his swing mechanics, he has big-time raw power to all fields. He runs well and plays a strong outfield to boot. He may not be the elite hitter clubs seek, but since there aren't many of those this year, teams may look hard at Choice in the early going.
4-17 from: - http://www.baseballrumormill.com/2010/04/2010-draft-misfits-wimmers-sabol-choice/#more - Michael Choice, University of Texas-Arlington, OF: Choice has been almost as effective as Sabol, going 398/563/788 with 12 home runs and just 29 strikeouts against 44 walks. Also similar to Sabol, there are questions about the competition that he's putting these numbers up against.
OF, UT Arlington - 4-21 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/21/1433461/casing-the-states-texas-part-one#storyjump - Choice has received more attention as of late, as he continues to prove doubters wrong with his game on the field. Choice wasn't drafted or even really recruited out of high school, though he started immediately upon his arrival to UT Arlington. Blessed with plus-plus raw power, Choice's game revolves almost completely around his bat. Using an above-average hit tool and that power, he puts a charge into almost every ball he hits, and he does an excellent job of squaring the ball on his bat, a good sign to a smooth transition to wood bats. He proved his worth with wood bats last summer while playing for Team USA, and he's working on becoming the top college outfielder in the entire draft class. He's a fringe-average runner with fringe-average range for the outfield, also possessing a fringe-average arm, all things that pull down his potential draft position from the high place it could be if he were a little more athletic. He's a very smart player in the outfield and on the bases, though, so scouts feel he'll transition well to pro ball. The one drawback with his hitting is his pitch recognition, though he's improved on it in his three years at school. He's not against drawing a walk, and he's improved his patience as he's been pitched around this year. He is sacrificing some contact for power this year, which is a concern, but considering he's the only threat on his entire team, he gets a pass for trying to do something positive. He's made himself into a solid late first round option, and he shouldn't last past the beginning of the second round. Projected Draft Range: #20 Overall - Early 2nd Round
5-3 from: - http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=10752 - OF, University of Texas at Arlington - Choice continues to move up draft charts at an alarming rate. Really, he's got it all. He's a big, athletic outfielder with enough speed to play center field in a pinch, and overall tools that profile perfect in right field with plus raw power and arm strength. As for the numbers-oriented, he pleases them as well, as with six more walks over the weekend—oh yeah, and four hits, too, including his 14th home run—he's now batting .401/.571/.757 with 59 walks against just 152 at-bats. His level of competition isn't the greatest, but scouts are sold as he's moving into the upper half of the first round for most.
5-10 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/05/10/southland-conference-players-of-the-week-8 - UT Arlington centerfielder Michael Choice has been named the Southland Conference Hitter of the Week. Choice hit two home runs, had two multi-hit games and broke the school’s all-time single-season walks record last week while going 5-for-11 with eight RBI. Choice began the week going 2-for-2 with three walks against Dallas Baptist while receiving three walks giving give him 62 for the season – which broke the Mavs’ single-season record that was set in 1978 by former Major League shortstop Dave Owen. He also received two intentional walks last week, improving his school single-season record to 17 and his career record to 22. The junior from Arlington, Texas (Mansfield Timberview), hit two home runs against second-place Stephen F. Austin, his conference-leading 15th and 16th of the season. Both home runs were three-run shots. Choice currently leads the conference in batting (.405) and home runs (16) and is tied for second in the league with 55 RBI. In addition, Choice has reached base safely with a base hit, walk or hit by pitch in 61 consecutive games dating back to last season. Choice’s 66 walks lead the nation. It his first hitter of the week award for Choice this season.
5. LeVon Washington – CF/2B… Buchholz HS; Gainesville, FL - Specs: 5′10, 170, Bats L, Throws R… fast… 6.21 60-yard dash… signed with Florida… ranked No. 2 in the state of Florida according to Prospectswire.com, No. 1 OF… ranked No. 20 on Baseball America's list of Top 100 High School Prospects… ranked No. 25 on PG CrossChecker.com list of Top High School Prospects… 2008: batted .363 with 41 runs, 35 stolen bases, 21 RBI and four homers as a junior… 2007: .375 clip, 20 stolen bases, 16 RBI and five homers as a sophomore… 1ST ROUND PICK – Tampa Bay
8-17: unsigned 1st round… will be eligible to draft again in 2010
9-16: From www.baseballamrica.com : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 4. LeVon Washington, of Chipola (Fla.) JC
9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: Mock Draft Version 1.0 – 13th pick overall - LeVon Washington, of - Chipola JC
9-28: From http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: - Mock Draft Version 2 - #13 pick overall - LeVon Washington, 2B - Chipola JC - Washington was taken in the first round by the Tampa Bay Rays this past year. A deal wasn't struck and he seemed all but certain to head to the Florida Gators for three years. Instead, he is playing at Chipola JC in Florida and will be eligible for the draft again. I am a huge advocate of if you get drafted in the first round you better take it because you never know what will happen but as of right now Washington seems to be getting what he wants.
10-5 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 14. Milwaukee Brewers – LeVon Washington, OF, Chipola JC (FL) – (1st OF picked in draft) - Washington was a first-rounder in 2009, and there aren’t many current scenarios that knock him out of the first round in 2010. With a recovery in his right arm, which I do expect to happen, more teams will think of Washington as a true center fielder with plus range. His hit tool is still plus, and with a weaker class of hitters in the 2010 class, there’s nowhere to go but up with a good season at Chipola against solid Florida JUCO competition. Beware the Boras.
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – #33 - Levon Washington - 5th Ofer on list
10-7: - from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - LeVon Washington, Chipola JC (FL)
It’s hard to really point at a huge number of JUCO prospects yet, so Washington falls into the college category. A first-rounder a year ago, he’s projected to do the same this year. He’s got plus hit and speed tools, and if his arm firms up to become somewhere in 40-50 range, he’ll be a plus overall fielder. Projected draft slot: Mid- to late-first round.
10-13 from www.mymlbdraft.com: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - #13 – (1st OF picked) - LeVon Washington
10-24 from www.baseballrumormll.com: - top 10 prospects: - 7. LeVon Washington, (only OF on list) Buchholz HS, FL: Much like Paxton, Washington was the 30th overall pick in the 2009 draft by the Tampa Bay Rays, but was unable to sign. Unlike Paxton, Washington will attend a junior college this season which will allow him to re-enter the draft next June.
10-25: from www.mlbresource.com: - Blake's Scouting Report - I will go on record as saying that I never recommend not signing if you are a first round pick. Baseball is a crazy game and sometimes we don't get second chances. With that being said, we are looking at a kid that has all the tools to succeed at the next level. My one concern for Washington is if he will hit enough. Scouting him I see Tony Gwynn Jr. in the fact he can run but his power isn't there yet. I would give him a 60-65 on the MLB scouting scale on his arm from the outfield. I like Washington a lot but he definitely has a ton of strength that needs to develop.
11-2 from www.perfectgame.com: - Future Scout Sully said: Here is my list of the Top 50 in the class. I have seen almost every one of these players. Went out to AFLAC for the week, saw team usa play, and went to many cape games: - 14-OF LeVon Washington (2nd OF on list)
11-3 from www.mlbresource.com: 3rd Mock draft – #8 - LeVon Washington, OF - Chipola JC - It is always a risk taking the type of player Washington is. He could either be your next B.J. Upton type or simply be a guy that can run but can't hit. I think Washington will be the complete player and will be worthy of this high of a pick. (1st OF on list)
11-17 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - 19. Detroit Tigers- LeVon Washington, OF, Chipola JC - A first round pick from last year, Washington decided to take the JUCO route. He is represented by Boras, and the Tigers never shy away from the Boras client. Washington will be on most teams radars as we reach the mid to late first round. (3rd OF picked)
11-18 from www.macksmets.blogspot.com: - 13. OF/2B Leon Washington – I like Brentz as the top outfielder, but Washington offers experience both in the outfield as well as second base. No one likes wasting a first round pick on a second baseman, but, in this case, you get a decent outfielder with pop as well. (2nd OF on list)
11-20 from www.draftamerica.com: - 13. Chicago (A) -- LeVon Washington, OF/2B, Chipola JC (FL). The White Sox have gone the college route with 12 of their 14 first round/supplemental-first round picks since 2000, and while Washington could be a reach here, he fits the profile as an impressive athlete with excellent bat speed.
11-23 from www.deepleagues.com: - #13 - Chicago White Sox Levon Washington (2B, Gainesville, FL) (1st OF on list)
12-15 from www.5tooltalk.com: Mock Draft – 1st round: - 27 Phillies LeVon Washington CF NJCAA
1-7-9: Morisato's 2010 MLB Mock Draft - Version 1.0 - 16th Overall – The Chicago Cubs - LeVon Washington (CF), Florida Junior College - A first round pick of the Rays, Washington should see his stock rise in what is looking like a average at best college crop. His best quality is his speed, as he's able to run out base hits, steal bases, and cover a lot of ground in centerfield. He doesn't have great power, but his speed will help him earn extra bases. He lacks a great arm in center, but if he gains strength coming back from a labrum surgery, it should be adequate. Washington has good bat speed and should hit for average, and if he improves his plate discipline, he should be a capable leadoff man. He takes some bat routes in center right now, and his game overall is still a bit rough. But he should be a solid centerfielder, and one that will likely catch the Cubs' attention. The problem here is that he's a Boras client, which should make for some interesting negotiations, as Washington's draft negotiations were largely on backburner because of Stephen Strasburg's negotiations. It figures to be the same this year, with Bryce Harper likely the top pick (right now, anyway).
2010 MLB DRAFT MOCK DRAFT- 12/31/09 – www.jjscouting.com - 19. Detroit Tigers- LeVon Washington, OF, Chipola JC - A first round pick from last year, Washington decided to take the JUCO route. He is represented by Boras, and the Tigers never shy away from the Boras client. Washington will be on most teams radars as we reach the mid to late first round.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #17 Tampa Bay LeVon Washington** OF/2B Junior College 5'10" 170 L,R
1-15-0 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 8. Houston Astros – LeVon Washington, OF, Chipola JC (FL) – Washington’s another player on the rise, as he’s got early first-round potential in both center field and at second base. He’s still got a great bat and excellent speed, and there’s thought that he could be a dominant leadoff hitter in a relatively short period of time when compared to other bats so young. He’s still got the Boras factor, but the word is that his asking price wasn’t ridiculous at all when the Rays failed to sign him in August. Their mistake. Previously: #14.
3-6 from XMLBScout - http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/4/OpenTopic?a=tpc&s=114295945&f=6174069131&m=4361060202 - Got to see LeVon Washington today a double dip for Chipola JC vs Gordon JC out of Georgia. He's making contact, however, I didn't see the blazing speed I'm accustomed to seeing, although he did get down the line once at 4.1 from the leftside which is plus, arm strength still well below average, good range in center, tracks the ball just ok, not real instinctive, displayed no power during bp or in the game, he's going to have to rely on his speed. Program listed him at 6'0 175, he's more like 5'10 and 175. Definitely not the same tools I've seen before, however, he's still worthy of early round consideration, first round though? No way unless this year is down on positional players, which thus far after seeing only 10 games this year, it's not very thin, some decent arms and some decent bats.
4-14 from: - http://pnrscouting.com/rankings_2010_midseason_secondbase.html - LeVon Washington, Freshman, Chipola JC (Fla.) is still a 1st Round threat. Reports from Florida indicate his speed hasn't been the "80" shown prior to last year's draft, and of course his arm strength will in part dictate his ultimate slot. After a hand injury and a slow start at the plate, he has righted the ship some -- through twenty-seven games, he has a slash line of .348/.455/.620, even showing some pop (though he still projects more as a gap-to-gap threat as a pro).
5-3 from: - http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/5/3/1456083/interesting-college-hitters-part - LeVon Washington, OF, Chipola Junior College 5-11 170 L - Hitting .341 with eight homers and eight steals in 38 games for Chipola JC, the 5-11, 170 pound Washington continues to flash the excellent speed and occasional power that made him a first round pick last year, but he's been bothered by nagging injuries again and his performance is uneven. His stock is certainly no higher than it was a year ago, and there is no guarantee he'll go in the first round again.
6. Cheves Clark – Marietta HS (GA) – 6-0, 185 – verbally committed to Georgia Tech
7-29: From: www.baseballfactory.com: - Clarke is an advanced young player with a complete game. He has a short, quick stroke from both sides of the plate that leads to consistent hard contact. He already shows gap power and can turn on balls at times. He can go get it in the outfield and throws well from all three spots. Overall, Clarke has the tools and polish that make him one of the top all-around players in the class
8-6: From www.baseballamerica.com: - Clarke is a flashy outfielder who has been on the prospect map for awhile. The 6-foot, 190-pounder is a toolsy center fielder that hits from both sides of the plate, runs well and shows off above-average arm strength.
9-5: from Jonathan Mayo’s 8-26 article on www.minors.mlbblogs.com: - Chevez Clarke showed a good, short and quick swing, but he didn't run as well as some had advertised.
9-16: From www.baseballamerica.com : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 11. Chavez Clarke, of Marietta (Ga.) HS
10-7: - from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Chevez Clarke, Marietta HS (GA)
A lot of early summer hype was around fellow Georgia prep outfielder Trey Griffin, but Clarke has come out ahead of Griffin this fall. Clarke has all the tools to be a plus center fielder in the pros, and that really allows to gain ground on future corner outfielders like Wilson and Sale. A switch-hitter, Clarke doesn’t have a ton of current power, but he should become near average there with a plus hit tool. He’s very fast, so the tools are all there. Projected draft slot: Late-first to late-second round.
11-27: from www.baseballamerica.com: - Re: The Bo Jackson Five-Tool Championship: - the top three player performances belonged to outfielder Wagner Mateo (Dominican Republic), outfielder Chevez Clarke (Marietta, Ga., HS) and third baseman/righthander Kaleb Cowart (Cook County HS, Adel, Ga.).
10-29 from http://www.baseballrumormill.com: - The 2009 World Wood Bat Association World Championships wrapped up its five day tournament recently in Jupiter, Florida. Chevez Clarke and Kaleb Cowart were two of the standouts from the tool competition. Specifically, Cowart was clocked with a 100-mph reading throwing from right field, clearly dominanting the "arm strength" tool competition. Clarke did not have anything stand out quite as significantly as Cowart, but throughout all five tools submitted arguably the top performance.
11-2 from www.thehardballtimes.com: - Chevez Clarke, OF, 2010, Marietta, Ga., East Cobb Baseball - Every tool in the shed. Clarke is just an electric player, simply put. He may well be a first-round talent this June. He’s got an incredibly athletic body, with plus speed. He’s well polished with the bat (I only saw three ABs, they were all from the left side; he switch hits). The stroke is lightning-quick through the zone and has a mild uppercut, and he recognized pitches well. He’s a well above average runner, and aggressive on the basepaths. He reminds me a bit of Denard Span, with the potential to develop a bit more in the power department (he’s got longer limbs). Defensively, he showed a cannon, and he certainly has the speed for center fielder. No read on his routes or judgment, however. Not sure if he can play the infield, but he sure does have the athleticism, body type and arm.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #77 Boston Chevez Clarke OF Marietta HS, Ga. 6'0" 185 R,R
1-15-0 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 28. Los Angeles Dodgers – Chevez Clarke, OF, Marietta HS (GA) – I messed around with putting Clarke here in the October mock, only to go with Brett Eibner of Arkansas. Clarke has excellent tools and is a solid switch-hitter at the plate, and he’s got some good momentum heading into the spring. I expect him to be in the conversation at numerous spots late in the first round, though his college commitment to Georgia Tech might pose a problem if it is discovered that it’s strong. The Dodgers like tools with good makeup, and I see a match here. Previously: NR.
5-1 from: - http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452668/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - Chevez Clarke, OF, Marietta High School, Marietta, Georgia - A classic tools outfielder, Clarke features plus speed and good power potential in his 6-1, 190 frame. Signed to Georgia Tech, he's highly-regarded defensively but is still rather raw with the bat. Three years of college ball would probably be good for his stick, but given the relative lack of hitting in this class he could go early enough to stay away from college. His defense is potentially outstanding once he gets more experience. I see him as a target for the bottom of the first round, attractive to teams like the Angels, Yankees, and Rays. The Phillies, picking at 27, also like this type of player.
7. Todd Cunningham - Jacksonville State – S/R junior…
7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .368, 2-HR, 9-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com: same school produced Tootle this year, Todd has a very good approach to hitting from both sides of the plate and at least average tools across the board. Also plays the game the way it's supposed to be played, and that's "all out!". Lots of ink on him this summer, however, it's best to watch him play, he will grow on you!
9-16: From www.baseballamrica.com : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 20. Todd Cunningham, of Jacksonville State
10-7: - from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Todd Cunningham, Jacksonville State - Cunningham’s also a center fielder with a good chance to stay there as a pro. His biggest tool is his hit tool, and it’s outstanding. I got a question in the comments of my first 2010 mock a few days ago about what hitters were the best pure hitters in the class. Cunningham might be number one. He doesn’t have a lot of power, and he’s not exceptionally speedy, but he’s definitely a solid option for a number one or two hitter in the pros. Projected draft slot: Supplemental-first to late-second round.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #80 LA Angels Todd Cunningham OF Jacksonville State 6'1" 205 B,R
2-5: from www.collegebaseball360.com: Baseball America Pre-Season All American team: - First Team - OF Todd Cunningham, Jacksonville State
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 80th
3-27 from: - http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - Todd Cunningham, OF, Jacksonville State - Cunningham has always been seen as a solid college outfielder, and he profiles best as a fringe regular or fourth outfielder. His best attribute is a lack of a glaring weakness, along with a hit tool that was seen as advanced enough to handle good pitching. A good summer on the Cape proved he could handle wood bats, but without much pop. He slumped against fringy pitching over the last few weeks before recovering a little, but the numbers still aren’t good enough for a supplemental first round selection.
4-28 from: - http://projectprospect.com/article/2010/04/28/lincolns-2010-draft-board - Some question the quality of competition he faces at Jacksonville State, but Todd Cunningham showed he can hang with the big boys when he lead the Cape Cod League in hitting by 36 points. Cunningham is a good athlete with plus speed and shows solid range for center field. He should be an average defender despite his lack of ideal arm strength. Cunningham has everything it takes to be a solid big league regular, including a good approach at the plate – he’s walked 15.1% of the time and struck out in 11.3% of his trips to the plate.
5-1 from: - http://projectprospect.com/article/2010/04/28/lincolns-2010-draft-board - Some question the quality of competition he faces at Jacksonville State, but Todd Cunningham showed he can hang with the big boys when he lead the Cape Cod League in hitting by 36 points. Cunningham is a good athlete with plus speed and shows solid range for center field. He should be an average defender despite his lack of ideal arm strength. Cunningham has everything it takes to be a solid big league regular, including a good approach at the plate – he’s walked 15.1% of the time and struck out in 11.3% of his trips to the plate.
8. Brian Ragira – Martin HS (TX) – 6-3, 175 –
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com: long limbs and neck, pure hitter with doubles type power, foul line HR power, hit the ball where it was pitched, runs better on the way and adequate arm strength, on the bump he was 84-87 on the stalker, there is arm strength there, and great character too. Another who will need to get bigger and stronger in college then watch out.
8-6: From www.baseballamerica.com: - Ragira is an athletic player with room to fill out as he matures and adds strength. He's still learning how to handle wood bats, but shows flashes of potential and has good bat speed. He's patient at the plate but aggressive on the bases with his above-average speed.
9-5: from Jonathan Mayo’s 8-26 article on www.minors.mlbblogs.com: - Brian Ragira showed a really good approach at the plate, laying off breaking balls and showing he can hit a fastball anywhere. When the game sped up, he kept up. He's a Stanford commitment, so he might be hard to woo away from college.
9-16: From www.baseballamerica.com : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 16. Brian Ragira, of Martin HS, Arlington, Texas
9-26 from: http://www.baseballrumormill.com: - While Bryce Harper and Jameson Taillon dominated the reports from the USA Baseball 18-and-under team trials, a number of lesser-known players also had good performances which landed them on the roster. Though his speed was mediocre at best, outfielder Brian Ragira impressed scouts with solid swing. Ragira is also intriguing because at 6'2" and only 175 lbs, there's plenty of room to fill out.
9-27 from: http://web.usabaseball.com: The USA Baseball 18U National Team logged a seven-run inning for a third consecutive day in a 14-0 run-rule shutout Sunday against Panama in the third day of the COPABE "AAA" Pan American Junior Championships at Daniel Canonico Stadium. Brian Ragira hit a two-run homer to center, his first and the team's third of the tourney.
9-30: From: http://web.usabaseball.com: - Karsten Whitson, Connor Mason and Kevin Gausman combined on a three-hitter, and an opportunistic offense took advantage of five errors as the USA Baseball 18U National Team remained unbeaten with a 19-0 run-rule shutout of Colombia Monday on Day 4 of the COPABE "AAA" Pan American Junior Championships at Daniel Canonico Stadium. Garin Cecchini made it a 3-0 game with an RBI double. The team then added four more runs in the second on Tony Wolters' two-run double and a two-run home run by Bryce Harper, a towering blast to right field. Team USA erupted for five runs in the fifth on two hits and two Columbia errors, with Brian Ragira's two-run double the big hit in the at bat. Wolters ended up with three RBIs. Harper, Cecchini, Ragira and Kavin Keyes had two apiece. Keyes also had three hits. Harper, Cecchini and Manny Machado each scored three runs.
10-1 from: www.baseballrumormill.com: - The COPABE "AAA" Pan American Championships began this past weekend and the 18-and-under squad from Team USA got off to a very hot 3-0 start with wins over Aruba, Argentia and Panama. Three stars stood out offensively for Team USA: Brian Ragira: In Game 1, Team USA beat Aruba 13-3 and Ragira went 2 for 3 with three RBI.
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – #31 - Brian Ragira - 4th Ofer on list
10-6 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com: - OF Brian Ragira - I think I have Ragira too low in this spot. He is a legit CF prospect with an above-average big league quality arm, in addition to a mature beyond his years approach at the plate.
10-7: - from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Brian Ragira, James Martin HS (TX) - Ragira’s got arguably the highest amount of potential of this group of hitters, as he has plus raw power and a plus hit tool, though his current tools in game action aren’t as strong as the players above. There’s some question about his future position, as he might be a bit of a ‘tweener defensively, with a good arm, but only above-average speed with the possibility of losing range as he gets bigger. Projected draft slot: Early-second to mid-third round.
11-2 from www.perfectgame.com: - Future Scout Sully said: Here is my list of the Top 50 in the class. I have seen almost every one of these players. Went out to AFLAC for the week, saw team usa play, and went to many cape games: - 36- OF Brian Ragira (7th OF on list)
11-9-9 from www.examiner.com: - Top 15 High School Draft Prospects - 8. Brian Ragira, of
James Martin HS, Arlington, Texas
College Commitment: Stanford - A wiry and athletic outfielder, Ragira is the top power-speed combo prospect in this year’s prep class. (3rd OF on list)
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #46 Brian Ragira OF Martin HS, Tx. 6'2" 185 R,R
1-15-9 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - 1.24 San Francisco Giants: OF Brian Ragira – Martin HS (TX) - They have to continue their attempts to balance out the arms with some
bats in the system, right? Ragira offers up a similar skill set to Anthony Wolters: above-average speed, professional approach at the plate, legit up the middle defense, and a better than average arm. Future Kevin Goldstein Top 11 Fun Fact about Brian Ragira (pick one, or combine two or more for added fun!): his full name is Brian Aosa Mogaka Ragira, he is of Kenyan descent, and his father lived in the next tribe over from where Barak Obama’s father grew up. I’d bet money on it. As awesome a name as Brian Aosa Mogaka Ragira is, can we all agree that it is simply no match for the greatest name in the history of names, Mr. Dikembe Mutombo Mpolondo Mukamba Jean-Jacques Wamutombo?
3-27 from: - http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - Brian Ragira, OF, Martin HS (TX) - I know Ragira is a favorite in the internet draft community, as he has all the tools to be an impact outfielder. He’s a solid runner, has a plus arm, and has a true middle of the order bat that has projection left for strength and power. However, let me remind you that Ragira has a Stanford commitment. That may not mean much to you, but that’s top of the line when it comes to signing a player away from a college commitment. Unless a team sees him as a surefire first round talent, he could drop like Jake Stewart did last year.
4-30 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/30/1451211/casing-the-states-texas-part-four#storyjump - Ragira is very well-known in the scouting community and in Internet circles, and he was an early favorite to be one of the top high school outfielders taken in this class. However, despite not really doing anything wrong, Ragira has fallen a little due to not taking the big step forward that scouts have wanted to see. In addition, he's a bit of a risky draft pick due to a Stanford commitment and excellent educational background. Ragira's parents hail from Kenya, having immigrated due to educational wishes, and their son has inherited that tradition. That makes him tough to judge in terms of signability, but the tools are legit. His biggest potential is at the plate, where he features plus power potential in a long, wiry frame. Depending on who you talk to, he can also project well for average, though most think he's a solid-average hitter more than a plus hitter. He's also an average straight-line runner, but with above-average baserunning skills, making him an attractive offensive threat. Defensively, he has the tools to be a plus defender in right field, where he could have above-average range and a plus arm that could cover plenty of ground. However, the big question now is whether he'll sign beyond the first round, so it's about waiting and seeing. Projected Draft Range: 2nd - 5th Round
5-1 from: http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452824/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - Brian Ragira, OF, James Martin High School, Arlington, Texas - Like Austin Wilson (see below), Brian Ragira is a tools outfielder who is also very intelligent and committed to Stanford. He's not as filled out as Wilson, listed at 6-3, 180, but has the chance to produce excellent power with maturity. His speed is average but he has a strong throwing arm and would fit perfectly in right field. Scouts have had some issues getting a read on Ragira's signability; on talent alone he should go in the supplemental or second round, but his family are Kenyan immigrants and put a lot of value on college education. His makeup is regarded as excellent. He could be picked early in the supplemental round, or he could fall out of the top ten rounds completely depending on how scouts read his intentions
9. Tyler Holt - Florida State -
7/07 fr. www.projectprospect.com: While Holt may not have the same buzz as the rest of guys above him on this list, he is very deserving. At least a plus runner, Holt gets good jumps on the ball and covers tons of ground in centerfield. He’s an asset in the field and on the base paths (34-39 stolen base attempts). Holt’s biggest tool is his on-base ability, as he walked an astonishing 17.9% of the time last spring boosting his overall line to .401/.520/.578. A line-drive hitter with strong wrists and good bat-speed and a fantastic approach, Holt projects as a prototypical lead-off hitter.
7/13: As of July 13, hitting .438 for Team USA.
11-2 from www.perfectgame.com: - Future Scout Sully said: Here is my list of the Top 50 in the class. I have seen almost every one of these players. Went out to AFLAC for the week, saw team usa play, and went to many cape games: 45- OF Tyler Holt (8th OF on list)
12-10 from www.collegebaseballblog.com: - named the 41st top college player for the 2010 season
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: #70 Minnesota Tyler Holt OF Florida State 6'0" 190 R,R
4-19 from: http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/19/acc-weekly-baseball-honors-2 - Florida State’s Tyler Holt has been named the Atlantic Coast Conference Baseball Player of the Week. Holt hit .500 in five games last week, which included an ACC road series victory over Duke and a win over No. 7 Florida at home. The junior centerfielder registered a hit and scored a run in all five games including multiple hits in four of the five games. He finished the week posting a 1.000 slugging percentage and an on-base percentage of .600. He was a perfect 5-for-5 in stolen bases and was perfect from the field in 12 fielding opportunities. Holt started the week scoring two of the three runs in FSU’s 3-2 win over Florida giving the Seminoles their third win over the Gators in four games this season. Against Duke, Holt batted .545 and slugged 1.364 as five of his six hits over the weekend went for extra bases. The Gainesville, Fla., native opened the weekend with his first multi-home run game of the series, slugging two home runs in his first two at-bats vs. Duke on Friday. He finished game one with three RBI and tied a career-high with four runs scored. On Saturday, Holt went 2-for-4 with a double, single and two runs scored, while wrapping up the weekend with a double, a run scored, two stolen bases and two walks as FSU claimed its third road ACC series of the season with an 8-3 victory over the Blue Devils.
4-20 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/20/tcbb-players-of-the-week-2 - The College Baseball Blog continues our weekly Players and Pitchers of the Week honors this week with Tyler Holt from Florida State being the CBB Pitcher of the Week. Holt hit .500 in five games last week, which included an ACC road series victory over Duke and a win over No. 7 Florida at home. The junior centerfielder registered a hit and scored a run in all five games including multiple hits in four of the five games. He finished the week posting a 1.000 slugging percentage and an on-base percentage of .600. He was a perfect 5-for-5 in stolen bases and was perfect from the field in 12 fielding opportunities. Holt started the week scoring two of the three runs in FSU’s 3-2 win over Florida giving the Seminoles their third win over the Gators in four games this season. Against Duke, Holt batted .545 and slugged 1.364 as five of his six hits over the weekend went for extra bases. The Gainesville, Fla., native opened the weekend with his first multi-home run game of the series, slugging two home runs in his first two at-bats vs. Duke on Friday. He finished game one with three RBI and tied a career-high with four runs scored. On Saturday, Holt went 2-for-4 with a double, single and two runs scored, while wrapping up the weekend with a double, a run scored, two stolen bases and two walks as FSU claimed its third road ACC series of the season with an 8-3 victory over the Blue Devils.
5-3 from: - http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/5/3/1456083/interesting-college-hitters-part - Tyler Holt, OF, Florida State University - A very successful collegian at Florida State, the 6-1, 190 pound right-handed hitter has leadoff skills including speed (16 steals in 17 attempts), good plate discipline, and a strong track record including a .361/.474/.651 mark this year, leading his team in every positive offensive category except home runs, where he ranks second. He has above average speed and has shown he can hit with a wooden bat in summer ball, but otherwise his tools are more average than plus. His makeup is excellent, and he's polished. Holt won't go in the first round, but a team with extra picks and a budget to deal with could pop him in the supplemental.
10. Jarrett Parker - Virginia – 6-4, 205 junior… excellent size, power, speed, and defense… zero HRs as a freshman, 15 as a sophomore… struck out 76 times in 259 at bats.
8-2: from 6-16 article www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com: Few hitters in the Class of 2010 can match Parker's combination of size, speed, power and defense. Parker worked hard in the offseason to add about 20 pounds of muscle to his athletic 6-4, 205-pound frame, and as a result he pounded 16 homers this year after hitting none in 50 games as a freshman. But he did not lose his speed or agility, and his range, instincts and arm strength are all assets in center field. The biggest thing Parker must improve is his contact rate; he has struck out 76 times in 259 at-bats this spring.
9-16: From www.baseballamrica.com : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 22. Jarrett Parker, of Virginia
10-7: - from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Jarrett Parker, Virginia - A center fielder, Parker’s someone whose draft position is up in the air. He was absolutely horrible on the Cape, and even though it was probably due to exhaustion from a long season, he looked incredibly out of sync. He’s a power-speed type of guy and he should be about average as a pro center fielder. I like his overall patience, but the summer hurt his stock. Projected draft slot: Late-first to late-second round.
10-13 from www.mymlbdraft.com: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - #31 – (5th OF picked) – Jarrett Parker
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: #75 Colorado Jarrett Parker OF Virginia 6'3" 190 L,L
1-26 from www.baseballdraftreport.com: - JR OF Jarrett Parker (2010) is one of the best of the many 2010 toolsy lottery ticket kind of players. I haven’t been doing this draft thing for that long, so it is hard for me to compare talent levels from class to class, but it seems that this year has a high number of mid-round high upside, high flameout potential players. I also haven’t been doing this writing thing long, as you can see from the mess that was that last sentence. Anyway, as mentioned, Parker is one of the very best of the so-called (by me) “lottery ticket” group, so he isn’t necessarily included in the mid-round subsection. In fact, many see him as a candidate to go in the first round. It’s easy to see why. His mix of tools and big-time sophomore numbers would make him a top-three round guy right now. Continued incremental improvements in his game his junior year will push his draft stock even higher. I’ll make a scary cross-race comparison here and claim Parker has a similar skill set as Lastings Milledge. He has plus power potential, an above-average arm, good speed, and the defensive chops to be a well above-average corner outfielder or a steady stopgap in center. Like Milledge, he struggles against breaking balls to the point that it’s hard not to see him as a 100+ strikeout big league hitter at this point. However, and I try my best to sandwich the bad news in between good news when I can, two big assets in Parker’s favor are his big league ready frame (6-4, 210 after packing on serious muscle), and the seemingly ever-increasing athleticism and agility (honed by practicing yoga) that should help him withstand the rigors of the professional grind. Additionally, Parker improved his walk rate from his freshman year to his sophomore year, and continued the positive trend during his otherwise disappointing campaign on the Cape this summer. I like that.
4-15 from: - http://pnrscouting.com/rankings_2010_midseason_outfield.html - The biggest fall comes from Jarrett Parker, Junior, Univ. of Virginia. Parker's struggles started on the Cape last summer, where he posted a disappointing .188/.361/.313 over 96 AB, striking out around once every 3 PA. The start of the 2010 has seen a continuation of his struggles, with the Virginia center fielder posting a pedestrian .313/.403/.477. The strikeouts have curtailed (sitting at a strikeout every 6 PA), but at this point his stock is tied more to his raw tools than his performance
5-3 from: - http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/5/3/1456083/interesting-college-hitters-part - Jarrett Parker, OF, University of Virginia - The 6-4, 210 pound Parker is one of the bigger disappointments in college ball this year. He's hitting .326/.418/.560, but his OPS is just around team average. Scouts report deterioration in his swing, and he just hasn't dominated the competition to the extent that he should. Coming on the heels of a poor showing in the Cape Cod League last year, Parker has seen his stock drop sharply. That said, he's still very toolsy, with good speed, raw power, and fine outfield defense. A team that considers his issues fixable could still nab him early.
11. Gary Brown – Cal State Fullerton – junior R/R… 2009: .340, 3-HR, 40-RBI, 63-G
7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .344, 2-HR, 9-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game
8-2: from 6-16 article www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com: Brown's speed tantalizes scouts, who would love to see him perform at a more consistent level. He's bounced between the outfield corners and third base for the Titans and may profile best at second. His well-above-average speed would play anywhere in the middle of the diamond, or at the top of the lineup as his bat develops.
9-16: From www.baseballamerica.com : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 24. Gary Brown, of Cal State Fullerton
10-7: - from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Gary Brown, Cal State Fullerton - Brown’s a controversial guy in the scouting community, but I put him here just to keep you aware of him. This spot could have easily gone to one of Leon Landry, Tyler Holt, or Michael Choice, but Brown’s a lesser name that you should remember. He’s got plus-plus speed and a solid hit tool, and even though he’ll never hit for much power, that should make him a decent offensive threat. His speed also makes him a good defender in center, though he needs to add arm strength to an otherwise accurate arm. Projected draft slot: Early-second to early-third round.
11-7-9 from www.mlbresource.com: - Gary Brown, OF Cal State Fullerton - Brown carries a big bat. Defense is still a bit shaky as he is a converted outfielder.
11-23 from www.collegebaseballblog.com: - ranked the 58th top college player for the 2010 season
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #66 Seattle Gary Brown OF Cal State Fullerton 6'0" 185 R,R
2-5: from www.collegebaseball360.com: Baseball America Pre-Season All American team: - Second Team - OF Gary Brown, Cal State Fullerton
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 102nd
2-17 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com - 2010 MLB Draft College Conference Position Breakdowns – Big West Outfielders - JR OF Gary Brown (2010 – Cal State Fullerton) reminds me of three established big leaguers, all for different reasons. He resembles Shane Victorino for his defensive range in center, plus speed, and intriguing power/speed combo. I see some Chone Figgins (pre-2009 breakout, mostly) in the way he’ll be an incredibly valuable player due to defensive versatility despite having only an average arm. At his very best, however, I can see some young Johnny Damon in his game, especially if his power potential comes around the way I expect it will. Brown has legit plus speed, untapped raw power, and a good but not great throwing arm. He’s a joy to watch on the bases and his defense is excellent in centerfield, although some think he has the natural fielding actions to make a move to second base a possibility. He is expected to be the veteran anchor in a Fullerton outfield where he’ll be flanked by freshman Anthony Hutting and two-way sophomore Tyler Pill, and backed up by Casey Watkins and Ivory Thomas, a pair of promising freshmen. Continued development could push him up into the late first round, but his most likely draft ceiling is late supplemental first/early second. I’m not saying he is a better baseball player than teammate Christian Colon, but I think the gap is much closer than the majority of people think. In fact, I think Brown’s superior tools actually make him a better bet to be a well above-average player than Colon.
3-24 from: http://pnrscouting.com/articles_stockwatch_2010class_10onthrerise_03232010.html - Stock Watch: Ten on the Rise (2010 Draft Class) - Gary Brown, OF, California St. Univ. - Fullerton (#103 on PnR Preseason Top 300): Brown has plus-plus speed and a plus to plus-plus defensive tool, covering wide swaths of grass out in center and utilizing excellent reads off the bat. There is little to no power at the plate, but his wheels allow him take an extra base or two when he's able to drive the ball to a gap or down the line. The first month of the 2010 season has been thirty days of nearly everything clicking for the Fullerton center fielder, with an eye-popping slash line of .457/.479/.707 and over one of every three hits going for multiple bases. Despite his speed, he really doesn't profile as a lead-off guy, given his non-existent plate patience. His contact rate is high enough, however, that he could get consideration for the two spot as a pro, provided he doesn't see the switch to wood limiting his bat speed to the point his strikeouts become a problem. Even with the excellent start to 2010, he isn't going to bump too much higher than he was ranked here preseason, but, like Grovatt, he could go as high as the 2nd round to a team that places high value on statistical performance and defense.
4-20 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/20/big-west-players-of-the-week-6 - Cal State Fullerton junior CF Gary Brown is the Big West Baseball Field Player of the Week. Brown rebounded from a 0-for-4 day at the plate Friday to hit .500 (7-for-14) for the series, including a double, a triple and two home runs He had six runs scored and six RBI in addition to stealing a pair of bases as the Titans took two out of three games against the Gauchos. Brown also slugged 1.143 for the week. He exploded at the dish in Saturday’s 17-3 triumph. He recorded a career-high tying five hits, a career-high five RBI and four runs scored to account for nine of the team’s 17 runs. Brown tripled and homered twice in the offensive onslaught. His triple gave him eight for the season and 17 for his career, moving him to within one of setting the school record in both categories. In Sunday’s 6-1 win, Brown went 2-for-4 with two runs scored and an RBI to help the Titans clinch the series. After legging out a double in the seventh inning, Brown manufactured CSF’s sixth and final run with his speed. On Carlos Lopez’s fly ball to center, Brown tagged up and not advanced to third, but came home on a two-base sacrifice fly.
12. Austin Wates – Virginia Tech – junior R/R…
7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .385, 0-HR, 10-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game
7-29: From http://www.capecodonline.com: - Austin Wates may be flying, but it’s no longer under the radar. The Yarmouth-Dennis corner outfielder out of Virginia Tech has hit in the high .300s almost all season while displaying most of the tools scouts are looking for, including 6.5 speed in the 60. His starry summer on the Cape has put him in prime position for the 2010 draft. “I think he’ll go in the top five rounds,” said Y-D manager Scott Pickler.
2-5: from www.collegebaseball360.com: Baseball America Pre-Season All American team: - Third Team - OF Austin Wates, Virginia Tech
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 86th
3-3 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com: - Sunday Night Notes (2/28/10) - Virginia Tech’s JR OF Austin Wates keeps on hitting (4-6, 2 3B, 2B, 2 R, 2 K) and JR SS Tim Smalling (3-6, HR, 2B, 6 RBI, R)
3-22 from: - http://www.baseballrumormill.com - Impressed scouts this summer in the Cape Cod league and is considered the best overall prospect of the group. "If you want a bat for the top of your lineup, he might be the best guy for that job," said one scout. "He might be able to drive in runs for you, though."
3-24 from: http://pnrscouting.com/articles_stockwatch_2010class_10onthrerise_03232010.html - Stock Watch: Ten on the Rise (2010 Draft Class) - Austin Wates, OF/1B, Virginia Tech (#87 on PnR Preseason Top 300): I was aggressive with my ranking of Wates for the Preseason Top 300 and still may have undersold him. Through 19 games, Wates has done absolutely everything you could ask of him at the plate, producing a stat line of .444/.535/.708, 86 PA, 11 BB, 7 SO, 7 2B, 3 3B and 2 HR. Given his athleticism, footspeed and solid average arm strength, Wates is a potential pro center fielder waiting to happen, though he is seeing time at various positions this year thus far (including first base). If he can prove himself to be at least a passable defender in center, and he continues to showcase the true lead-off skillset at the plate that we've seen thus far, he could rocket all the way up to the late -1st round.
3-27 from: - http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - Austin Wates, OF/1B, Virginia Tech - Most scouts envision Wates as a toolsy center fielder, but Virginia Tech doesn’t seem to get that message. The Hokies use him everywhere possible, including plenty of first base time, where his athleticism is pretty much wasted. However, Wates does have some of the best overall tools in the college hitting class, which is lacking this year, so he’s moved up a lot, but he needs to prove he can handle center field before I move him higher than the second round.
4-16 from: - http://projectprospect.com/article/2010/04/15/2010-draft-class-update - While the pool of college position players is generally thought of as lacking athletic/high upside prospects, a few players offer both athletic projection and solid production. Virginia Tech’s Austin Wates is one of the more interesting and confusing prospects in this draft class. Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 180 pounds, Wates is a speedster who Head Coach Pete Hughes calls, “the best athlete I’ve ever recruited”. Wates is hitting .416/.503/.648 this season and has walked in 11.5% of his plate appearances and struck out in just 12.2%. Despite seeming to possess the necessary athletic ability, Wates hasn’t played much center field this season, spending most of his time at first base. Wates’s power potential is average, at best, and would be a poor fit at first base in the pros. Even as a corner outfielder it’s hard to figure where Wates fits in.
13. Ty Linton –
1-27-10 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - A quick look at the top 15 outfielders for the 2010 draft. #9- Ty Linton- Charlotte Christian School(NC)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 73rd
3-23 from: - http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/4/OpenTopic?q=Y&a=tpc&s=114295945&f=6174069131&m=4361060202&p=2 - Add to top 3 round candidate, Ty Linton, OF, Charlotte Christian HS. Solid 6'2 200, R/R, runs well, much better on the way, the ball explodes off his bat, has a decent zone grasp, throws carry and has good range. Short stroke, reminds me some of Jeff Franceour (spelling). Many watchers today vs Providence Day, Providence will have a couple to watch for in 2011/2012, namely Brett Austin, catcher, Providence Day, 6' plus 190, 1.95 pop, good hands and carry on throws, some pop in his bat with good approach. He should be on the summer circuit for someone!!!!
14. Reggie Golden – Wetumpka HS (AL) – 5-11, 200 - 2009: .458, 9-HR, 30-RBI… verbally committed to Alabama…
7-29: from www.baseballfactory.com: - Built like a running back, Reggie packs a punch on the diamond with an exceptional combination of speed and power as well as a strong throwing arm. He makes good, consistent contact at the plate and puts on shows in batting practice
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com: solid runner, 4.25 to 1b, ave to just abv ave arm strength, has power in his swing, chased many pitches up in the zone and didn't do a thing with it, showed BP power during BP, will need to make adjustments next spring to cut down on swing n misses. Good athlete.
8-9: from www.baseballamerica.com: - Golden is another raw, athletic outfielder that has big power but can struggle with pitches away. Well, in his last at-bat he got a fastball in and absolutely crushed it to left-center, just missing leaving the stadium and landing on Waveland Avenue by only a couple of feet.
9-5: from Jonathan Mayo’s 8-26 article on www.minors.mlbblogs.com: - He's got all the raw tools you'd want to see and might have the best overall tool package in the Draft class. He's an above-average runner, he's got raw power to spare. The question is whether he'll make adjustments. If he does in the spring, he'll move up in a hurry.
10-7: - from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Reggie Golden, Wetumpka HS (AL) - Golden is such a toolsy player that it’s hard to take your eyes off him when he’s on the field. However, he’s your usual raw prep hitter that has some big troubles with pitch recognition and patience. He’s got plus raw power, plus speed, and a plus arm, all of which will play in center field. Hit-or-miss type of player. Projected draft slot: Early-second to late-third round.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: #52 Baltimore Reggie Golden OF Wetumpka HS, Al. 5'11" 200 R,R
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 61st
5-1 from: - http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452668/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - Reggie Golden, OF, Wetumpka High School, Wetumpka, Alabama 5-10 210 alabama - Although undersized in a classic sense at 5-10, Golden carries 210 pounds of muscle on his body. He's also quite fast, giving him a potent power/speed combination. Like most high school hitters, he's somewhat raw and needs more repetitions, but it doesn't take much imagination to see him as a future 20/20 player. His glove is also well-regarded. Golden is committed to Alabama, but should be signable if taken early enough. His lack of classic height may keep him out of the first round, but I don't expect him to last past the supplemental stage. You also have to love the name "Reggie Golden."
15. Kyle Parker – Clemson – junior… 2008 as a freshman: .303, 14-HR, 50-RBI… 2009: .255, 12-HR, 52-RBI…
11-5 from www.collegebaseballblog.com: named the 76th top college player
3-18 from: - http://collegebaseball360.com/2010/03/18/two-sport-report-week-2 - Kyle Parker – Clemson - 6’1-200 – Football: QB & Baseball: OF - Parker, a junior, leads the team with a .424 BA, with 8 HR and 19 RBI through 16 games. He’s also 3-4 in stolen bases this season. Parker passed for 2,526 yards with 20 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in 2009. Clemson finished 9-5 last season beating Kentucky 21-13 in the Music City Bowl.
3-27 from: - http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - Kyle Parker, OF, Clemson - Parker has gotten a lot of national interest, mainly because he even brings along the interest of college football fans. Clemson’s quarterback in his down time (yes, I said it), he brings premium athleticism in a class very short on impact college bats. He’s also simply hitting the ball when others aren’t, and he’s on his way up. However, there are still questions about how much he wants to play football in the fall, which will impact his signability, making him miss my mock.
16. Drew Vettleson – Cnetral Kitsap HS (WA.)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 69th
3-27 from: - http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - Drew Vettleson, OF, Central Kitsap HS (WA) - Vettleson became a bit of a circus show as a switch-pitcher with solid stuff, though he doesn’t profile as a pitcher at the next level. Rather, he has the tools to be an excellent corner outfielder with the arm and range to handle right field. He’s a solid hitter with some projection, but my worry is that he can’t hit for enough power to hold down a corner outfield spot, as he’s more of an average hitter when he’s going right. He almost has to force power, so that makes him a second round prospect to me.
5-1 from: http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452824/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - Drew Vettelson, OF-RHP, Central Kitsap High School, Tracyton, Washington - The 6-1, 185 Vettelson is a switch-pitcher, hitting 90 MPH from the right side but a credible 85 from the left. He won't pull a Pat Venditte in pro ball, however, as most teams see him as an outfielder. He's expected to hit for average and be a sharp defender at either outfield corner, but there's some question about how much power he'll develop. A team willing to bet on his tools and future power could take him in the later part of the supplemental round or in the second round. He has an Oregon State commitment as leverage.
17. Leon Landry – LSU – 5-10, 200, L/R –
7/07 fr. www.projectprospect.com: Leon Landry will follow in the footsteps of teammate Jared Mitchell as a super-toolsy two-sport athlete outfielder from LSU.
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com: this kid can really run, has probs earlier in the year and was sat down, however when he got his opportunity against some of the best college pitchers, he showed much better focus as a hitter. 70 runner with solid defensive skills and range, 40 plus arm. Will be one to watch for 2010 for sure.
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – #39 - Leon Landry - 6th Ofer on list
10-6 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com: - OF Leon Landry – Landry is a total upside play here, but I trust the LSU coaching staff like few others.
10-21 from www.collegebaseballblog.com: - named the 91st top player in 2010 college baseball
12-22 fr. http://baseballdraftreport.com: - JR OF Leon Landry (2010) had better be prepared for the onslaught of Jared Mitchell comps sure to be thrown his way this spring. The comparisons between the two football playing outfielders work in some ways (both players have plus speed and are ridiculous athletes, but each guy had a below-average arm), but fall apart in other areas, most notably in the power department. Landry has already shown as much present power through two seasons of collegiate development as Mitchell did through three. A more interesting crop of first round caliber talents in 2010 may push Landry’s draft position down past where Mitchell went in 2009 (23rd overall), but I’m willing to go on the record and say that his forthcoming monster junior season will catapult his overall prospect stock past his former two sport teammate’s. He’s a potential plus defender in center with good range but a below-average arm for the position.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: #74 St. Louis Leon Landry OF LSU 5'11" 197 L,R
2-5: from www.collegebaseball360.com: Baseball America Pre-Season All American team: - Third Team - OF Leon Landry, Louisiana State
2-25: Jason Churchill of espn.com continues his review of the opening weekend of D1 college baseball play. For more on opening weekend, click here.
• Leon Landry will need a big spring to get into the first round, but had a good start going 1-for-3 with a double in LSU's opening win.
3-17 from: http://www.baseballrumormill.com: - Leon Landry, LSU: Another above-average runner, Landry has better power than Holt or Brown. He's a nice, intriguing talent," said an American League scout. "He runs, and brings some punch to the plate. I like the way he plays the game, and he might fit at the top of the lineup with his patience and plate skills."
3-22 from: - http://www.baseballrumormill.com - Another above-average runner, Landry has better power than Holt or Brown. He's a nice, intriguing talent," said an American League scout. "He runs, and brings some punch to the plate. I like the way he plays the game, and he might fit at the top of the lineup with his patience and plate skills."
4-16 from: - http://projectprospect.com/article/2010/04/15/2010-draft-class-update - Leon Landry has drawn several natural, and frankly lazy, comparisons to Jared Mitchell, his former teammate at LSU. Both are lefthanded, center fielders with good speed and football player builds. While Landry doesn’t have Mitchell’s power ceiling, he has shown the ability to make contact, something Mitchell struggled with greatly. Currently sporting .345/.438/.558 line, Landry has struck out in just 7.3% of his plate appearances while drawing free passes 12.4% of the time. Landry’s defensive abilities in center field were the reason the Mitchell rarely saw action in the middle of the diamond last year. Landry has a chance to be a line-drive hitter who gets on base and has good defensive value. If a team believes there’s more power in there than he’s shown so far this spring, he could hear his name called in round one.
18. Austin Southall – University HS –
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 95
19. Krey Bratsen – Bryan HS, Texas -
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #63 Milwaukee Krey Bratsen OF Bryan HS, Tx. 6'0" 160 R,R
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 135th
3-18 from: - http://www.pgcrosschecker.com/articles/DisplayArticle.aspx?article=2214 - Kray Bratsen (Bryan High School) - The 6-0, 160-pound Bratsen is one of the most athletic players in the country and certainly among the fastest. He was twice under 4.00 to first base on ground balls in the Metrodome last June and scouts have clocked him many times in the 4.00 to 4.05 range this spring on soft high school fields. He was 4.19 and 4.43 on two turns on Wednesday. Bratsen also has a clear plus arm in centerfield based on last summer, and his combination of speed and arm strength, along with very good outfield instincts, enable most scouts to give him three plus tools, a rarity in a high school player. That being said, there seem to be serious questions among scouts about whether Bratsen, who has signed with hometown Texas A&M, will be a draft (i.e. in a signable round) in June. He has quick wrists at the plate and the ball comes off the barrel pretty hard, but his swing mechanics and balance are neither fundamentally sound nor consistent. Facing a pitcher throwing in the low to mid 70’s, Bratsen did hit a double and triple but also popped up or swung and missed at a number pitches and did not show any consistency in his swing or approach.
4-21 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/21/1433461/casing-the-states-texas-part-one#storyjump - As you can tell from the Best Tools section, Bratsen is simply a tool shed. Blessed with plus-plus speed and a plus arm, Bratsen offers one of the highest defensive ceilings in the entire class. He can track down almost anything in center field, and he's easily a plus fielder there thanks to his speed, though his routes are still raw like most high school outfielders. At the plate, though, Bratsen is much less refined, showing plus bat speed, but a raw approach and poor pitch recognition. He doesn't profile for more than fringe-average power, as he's more gap-to-gap, but he's also an average hitter at best. However, his incredible athleticism is very much in demand, though his commitment to hometown Texas A&M makes him look unsignable in the area that he projects to go. He's also an excellent football player, and he's eligible to receive a two-sport bonus if he signs, making him a little more attractive, since they can spread the bonus over five years. Projected Draft Range: 6th-15th Round
20. Trey Griffin – MLK H.S. (Stockbridge, GA.) – 5-tooler… quickly reads ball off of bat… good speed… also plays SS… incredible hands… power to all fields.
7-21: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - 2nd Edition - July 21, 2009 by Scouting The Sports http://scoutingthesports.com/?p=3632 - 4. Kansas City Royals - Trey Griffin Outfielder Martin Luther King High School, Stockbridge Georgia - Griffin is a five-tool prospect with incredible athleticism who can play a few different positions. In high school, Griffin has mainly played the outfield position, where his ability to quickly read balls off the bat and good speed have allowed him to cover tons of ground. However Griffin has also played some shortstop in high school, where his incredible hands and good arm strength make him the most talented fielding shortstop in this draft. Wherever Griffin plays, he will hit. Griffin has power to all fields and incredible bat control for a prospect his age.
7-29: From www.baseballfactory.com: - Trey is a premium athlete with the body and skills to be a future top round pick. He has is a plus runner with arm strength and advanced ability at the plate. He shows flashes of present power with more to come. His overall package has elicited comparisons to last year’s Under Armour All-America Game participant Donovan Tate.
8-6: From www.baseballamerica.com: - Griffin is a gifted athlete with good size and strength that provides him with the tools and athleticism to be a good all-around player. He hits from an open stance and runs the 60-yard dash in 6.8 seconds. Griffin's half brother, Xavier Avery, was a second-round pick by the Orioles last year.
8-9: from www.baseballamerica.com: - Griffin tied the game in the fourth when he doubled home Castellanos, but then gave Baseball Factory the lead when he caught catcher Jacob Felts sleeping as he stole home when Felts was lobbing the ball back to the pitcher.
9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: Mock Draft Version 1.0 – 19th pick overall - Trey Griffin, OF - King HS (GA)
11-2 from www.perfectgame.com: - Future Scout Sully said: Here is my list of the Top 50 in the class. I have seen almost every one of these players. Went out to AFLAC for the week, saw team usa play, and went to many cape games: 50- OF Trey Griffin (9th OF on list)
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #68 Atlanta Trey Griffin OF/1B Martin Luther King HS, Ga. 6'4" 205 R,R
21. Kevin Jordan – Northside Columbus HS (GA) –
8-6: From www.baseballamerica.com: - Jordan is an athletic 6-foot-1 and 180 pounds. While not a burner, he gets good reads on the ball and can play center field. He hits from the left side and shows some power to all fields, giving him a high ceiling.
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 97th
3/1 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: -
Having already planned to head to South Georgia on Saturday, I planned a side route to Columbus, Georgia to be able to catch a possible first-day draft prospect in Northside High School outfielder Kevin Jordan. Jordan is a tall, lanky center field prospect with plus tools in the power, speed, and fielding departments, and he holds a baseball scholarship to Wake Forest. A late-bloomer in terms of national prominence, Jordan came onto the bigger stage with strong performances in the Area Code games in August, followed by a good showing at the World Wood Bat World Championship in Jupiter, Florida in October. I currently rate him as a 2nd-4th round prospect, and his upside is immense. I recorded notes on most players in the matchup between Northside and Northgate High School, but this will simply be a writeup on Jordan, the only high-level draft prospect on the field on Saturday. Here’s a look at what I saw.
Jordan was the starting center fielder and leadoff hitter for Northside, and he was easily the best player on the field, both in terms of current production and tools. He didn’t have a great day when I saw him on Saturday, but the tools are definitely in there. To begin, his raw size makes him stand out. He’s listed at 6’1’’, and that’s about right, though he may be closer to 6’2’’. He has lean, wiry strength that’s already solid, and he definitely has the look of someone that will fill out with solid muscle as he matures. There’s tons of potential in his body, though relying on physical projection is only one step in the grading process.
22. Cory Vaughn – San Diego State
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 213th
23. Delino DeShields – Woodward Academy HS (GA.)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 207th
4-15 from: http://www.neworleans.com/sports/lsu/372782-report-delino-deshields-jr-plans-to-sign-with-lsu.html - Paul Mainieri's LSU baseball program has reeled in a big fish - or, to be exact, the son of a big fish - in the recruiting wars. According to Rivals, Delino Deshields, Jr. has stated that he plans to sign with the Tigers and play for them if he doesn't like the signing bonus offered by whatever team selects him in the MLB Draft this June. Similar to his father who played 13 years in the big leagues for 5 teams, the 5-foot-9, 183-pound center fielder has speed to burn as a leadoff hitter. He has also displayed plenty of pop in his bat while playing prep ball for Woodward Academy in Georgia
24. Taylor Lindsay - - Desert Mountain HS, Scottsdale, Ariz. –
25. Tate Parrish -
26. Mike McGee – Florida State junior – 2009: 58 starts, .379 (2nd on team), 19-HR, 78-RBI
12-19: from www.collegebaseballblog.com: - named the 32nd top college player for 2010
3-16 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com: - Sunday: JR OF/RHP Mike McGee (Florida State): 3-4, HR 2 RBI, 2 R and 1.2 IP 0 H 0 ER 0 BB 2 K - I mentioned Northwestern’s SO 1B/RHP Paul Snieder as one of my favorite two-way players in the nation in yesterday’s post, so it’s only right that I spotlight another standout Swiss Army knife. Mike McGee currently has an OPS approaching 1.100 and an ERA (through 7.2 IP) at 0.00. His mature beyond his years approach at the plate make him a better hitting prospect in my mind, but he could get docked by some scouts as a tweener outfielder without a singular standout tool. I get all that, but still believe that he’s the kind of player who has the right blend of talent and temperament to succeed as a minor leaguer.
27. Michael Arencibia – Key West HS (FL) –
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 124th
2-24 from: http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Michael Arencibia is the type of raw athlete that could really profit from increased attentiveness to defense in baseball front offices. A raw hitter, Arencibia has all the tools to be a truly plus center fielder in the pro game. He’s a plus-plus runner with a plus arm, and with some cleanup of his routes, he could really turn into a true gold glover. That’s all dependent on him getting through the minors, though, and that might be a bit of a chore. He has future ratings of average for both his hit tool and his power, though he’s pretty far away from those grades at the moment. His bat speed is good, but he really needs to work on pitch recognition and taking some pitches in general, as he could turn into someone that walks once a week. I personally think he’s good enough to be an average pro hitter, but he might need to go step-by-step through a minor league system, including stops at two short-season levels. His Florida State commitment might mean he’s not as signable as he appears, and he’ll go somewhere from round three to six on talent. He might take $750,000 to sign, perhaps more.
28. Devin Harris – East Carolina
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 173rd
29. Stewart Ijames –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 1. SO OF Stewart Ijames (2010 – Louisville) missed the majority of the 2009 season with a torn rotator cuff, but his talent is so obvious that he heads into the 2010 season with top five round buzz. Ijames has excellent bat speed and plus power potential, a good approach at the plate, and enough defensive aptitude that he should be an above-average defender in a corner. He reminds me a little bit of Idaho guard Mike Iupati; both players have last names that I’ve seen mistakenly spelled with an “L” instead of an “I.”
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 113th
30. Jonathan Jones – Long Beach State
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 192nd
31. Brian Fletcher – Auburn junior R/R…
7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .317, 1-HR, 10-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 228th
32. Michael Fuda – Rice
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 127th
3-24 from: http://www.pgcrosschecker.com/articles/DisplayArticle.aspx?article=2225: - OF Michael Fuda of Rice would have to play centerfield of this trio, although he is currently playing left and batting second for Rice. He, too, is off to a hot start, hitting .376 and getting on base 46 percent of the time. A dynamic athlete whose speed made him an exciting receiver and return threat on the gridiron, that speed has yet to make a difference on the base paths. He’s currently leading the nation in strikeouts with 30 in just 85 at-bats, so he would be doing himself a huge favor by putting the ball into play more often, allowing for more opportunities to showcase his wheels.
4-22-10 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/22/1435556/casing-the-states-texas-part-two - OF, Rice - Fuda is an athletic sophomore-eligible outfielder that is a former football player for the Owls. In addition to that intriguing background, Fuda also has a brother that's a prospect for this draft, Joey, who plays at Navarro JC. Michael's clearly the better prospect at this point, but Joey's no slouch either. Michael ran into some bad luck last summer after his first year as a full-time baseball player for Rice, tearing ligaments in his ankle while playing in the MINK league. There were some concerns that he'd lose his most valuable asset, plus speed, but he's returned to form this spring, and he seems to be playing at 100%. In addition, after being a fairly raw hitter at the plate due to his part-time baseball background, he's matured at the plate, and his considerable potential is starting to be realized. He doesn't have anything better than an average hit tool, but when combined with above-average raw power and plus speed, he looks like a good offensive threat for the pros. In addition, though he's a part-time left fielder for the Owls now, he was looking like a pro second baseman in the MINK league, and he might get a return chance there, though his range is plus in left field, and he has a solid-average arm. He's bypassed teammate Rick Hague to become the top draft-eligible Rice player this spring. Projected Draft Range: 3rd-6th Round
33. Ryan Strausborger – Indiana State
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 139th
34. Gauntlett Eldemire – Ohio
9-8: www.pgtracker.com lists as one of the top 10 college players coming out of Ohio.
12-20 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com – voyed to the 2010 MCBWA 3rd team all-american squad
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 206th
3-16 from: - http://www.prospectjunkies.com: - Gauntlett Eldemire - CF - OHIO 2-3 BB Best name in college baseball - strong performance in loss to Sonny Gray and the Vanderbilt Commodores.
3-24 from: http://pnrscouting.com/articles_stockwatch_2010class_10onthrerise_03232010.html - Stock Watch: Ten on the Rise (2010 Draft Class) - Gauntlett Eldemire, OF, Ohio Univ. (#207 on PnR Preseason Top 300): Viewed as an impressive athlete in high school, Eldemire saw his power begin to emerge last year, making him a favorite pick by many to be targeted for early round selection in 2010. He started out a little lower on the PnR Preseason Top 300 than we saw on a couple other preseason lists, as I wanted to see how much he could improve his contact rate without cutting his swing down to the point that his power is affected. So far this year, he continues to drive the ball with 11 of his 27 hits going for extra bases (7 2B, 1 3B and 3 HR), and is posting a cool slash line of .429/.514/.714. He is still striking out way too much (more than 25% of his plate appearances) but the power/speed combo could be among the best in the class. More importantly, as mentioned above, there just aren't that many potentially special bats in the class, and it would not be a surprise to see a stick like Eldemire's, at an up-the-middle position, climbing into mid-Day 1 consideration, and perhaps even higher.
35. Jabari Blash – Miami-Dade C.C. –
7/09 fr. http://www.withthefirstpick.net: - Jabari Blash, an outfielder from Miami-Dade Community College, is one of the most exciting prospects eligible for the draft. He's got plenty of speed, huge power and profiles in center-field or right. Blash's tools don't always translate to games, but he has All-Star talent. We ranked Blash 63rd overall and the Rangers selected him in the ninth round (he has yet to sign). The Virgin Islands native has been playing this summer for the Deland Suns of the Florida Collegiate Summer League, where he is hitting .234/.388/328.
8-31: From www.baseballamerica: Blash has tremendous raw talent, and he was drafted by the Rangers in the ninth round this June but did not sign. Blash has a great body at 6-foot-6, 220 pounds and has the potential to be a five-tool player. He has a strong enough arm to play right field and enough speed to play center. Blash hit .279/.400/.365 in 104 at-bats this summer but hit just one homer after blasting 10 in 102 at-bats this spring. He has plus raw power to go along with his plus speed and plus arm, but he has holes in his swing and is still learning the nuances of the game.
36. Angelo Gumbs – Torrance HS (CA) – 6-1, 190 – gome to first in 4:07… prep shortstop… good arm… thows inconsistently…
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – #30 - Angelo Gumbs – 3rd Ofer on list
37. Joc Peterson –
8-9: from Keith Law/ www.espn.com: RF Joc Pederson has a great swing that is quick to the ball with a nice follow through. Along with his above-average speed and ability to probably play center, Pederson figures to be on everyone's 2010 first round radar.
38. Justin Fradejas – Auburn
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 159th
2-23 from http://thecollegebaseballblog.com: - Auburn outfielder Justin Fradejas will be limited to pinch-running duties for the next couple of weeks as he got injured swinging the bat over the weekend during the series against Southeast Missouri. He is currently 1 for 3 on the year with that only hit being a home run.
39. Mark Hudson – Sam Houston State
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 160th
40. Jake Skole – Blessed Trinity HS (GA.)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 112th
41. Matt den Dekker – Florida
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 171st
5-5 from: - http://collegebaseball360.com/2010/05/04/cb360-primetime-performers-11-may-4 - Florida senior centerfielder Matt den Dekker (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) headlined the 11th installment of the CB360 Primetime Performers Weekly Honor Roll. The veteran den Dekker continued to lead the young Gators squad during weekend action on April 30-May 2, as Florida (#7 at the time in the CB360 Composite National Rankings) posted its first series sweep of LSU (CNR #13) since the 1996 season. The 6-1, 210-pound lefthanded hitter swung a hot bat throughtout the series – going 8-for-13 (.615) over the course of the three games while totaling 5 RBI and 5 runs scored (plus a home run and 3-of-3 on stolen bases). Widely regarded as one of the nation’s elite centerfielders, the speedy den Dekker flashed those defensive skills to further help Florida double up LSU in total runs, 28-14, during the three-game series (7-3/8-5/13-6).
42. Thomas Carroll – Mercer
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 165th
43. Deshun Dixon – Terry HS (MS) – OF/LHP –
7-29: From: www.baseballfactory.com: - Smaller than his brother Rashun, a prospect in the Athletics organization, Deshun is an athletic and exciting player. His speed gives him the range to be a true center fielder and a terror on the bases. He hits from the right side and knows how to get on base. He also has a strong arm, getting it up to the low 90s off the mound.
8-15: from XMLBScout on www.perfectgame.com: first time seeing him this year, said to be a solid 2 way player (football & baseball) and showed very good defense and arm strength also pitched an inning to help his cause. Very interesting to see for 2010.
5-3 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/5/3/1455597/casing-the-states-mississippi#storyjump - Deshun Dixon, OF/LHP, Terry HS, Jackson - There must be something about left-handed throwers that hit right-handed in Mississippi, because Dixon's let another one. Dixon is more known in baseball circles for his incredibly athletic family, as he has multiple brothers that play sports on a high level. Older brother Rashun is a prospect in the A's system, but even more impressive is his older brother Anthony, who was a 4th round pick of the San Francisco 49ers in the recently-passed NFL Draft as a running back. Add in one more brother playing Division II football, and you have a physically gifted family. Deshun isn't built like most of the rest of his family, as he's much smaller and less physical. However, he's gifted in his own right. As an outfielder, his best assets include an average to slightly above-average hit tool and above-average to plus speed, and he complements it with average range in center field with a plus arm. That arm also helps him on the mound, where he's a high-80s pitcher, touching 91, with an average curve and below-average changeup. Scouts are split on his future projection in terms of his position. Most think he has a better ceiling as a hitter, but he could be a very effective relief arm from the left side pretty quickly, too. His stock has dropped slowly but surely all spring, but he has no college commitment, so he could go higher than expected due to his perceived signability. Projected Draft Range: 3rd-8th Round
44. Ryan LaMarre – Michigan – junior… 2009: .344 12-HR 62-RBI
12-20 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com – voyed to the 2010 MCBWA 3rd team all-american squad
2-5: from www.collegebaseball360.com: Baseball America Pre-Season All American team: - Third Team - OF Ryan LaMarre, Michigan
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 183rd
4-12 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/12/big-ten-players-of-the-week-9 - PLAYER OF THE WEEK - Ryan LaMarre, Michigan - Jr., OF, Jackson, Mich./Lumen Christi - LaMarre earns his second career Player of the Week honor and his first this season after leading Michigan to a series win against Purdue over the weekend. The outfielder hit .692 and slugged 1.077 on the strength of three doubles and a triple vs. the Boilermakers. He also recorded three hits in every conference game, extending his hitting streak to 10 games dating back to last season. Against Central Michigan on Wednesday, LaMarre made his first start since suffering an injury at Texas Tech on Feb. 20. He went 1-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI in a 13-7 win. In eight appearances this season, LaMarre has four multi-hit games and is hitting .519 with a .704 slugging percentage.
45. Mike Podlas – Westhampton Beach HS (NY) -
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 247th
46. Mark Haddow – UC-Santa Barbara –
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 190th
2-17 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com - 2010 MLB Draft College Conference Position Breakdowns – Big West Outfielders - JR OF Mark Haddow (2010 – UC Santa Barbara) offers up plus power potential, but also strikeouts about as much as you’d expected from a raw college player with plus power potential. Luckily, power isn’t his only claim to fame. Haddow can also rely on his solid athleticism, better than you’d think speed, and slightly above-average big league right field arm. He has the raw tools to dramatically rise up draft boards, but first needs to take a more disciplined approach at the plate to show big league clubs he’d cut it as something more than a backup outfielder professionally. If he begins even to hint at improvement in those deficient areas in his game, I’d bet good money some team out there will draft him with the idea that he’ll be a big league starter in right someday.
47. Chris Epps –
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 197th
48. Scott Woodward – Coastal Carolina –
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 176th
49. Mitchell Shifflett – Cosby HS (VA.)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 177th
50. Ryan Bolden -
1-27-10 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - A quick look at the top 15 outfielders for the 2010 draft. - #15- Ryan Bolden- Central HS(MS)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 114th
2-22 from: http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - Ryan Bolden is one of those rare Rickey Henderson-like players who bats from the right side and throws from the left. Bolden’s from Madison, Mississippi, about 15 miles north of Jackson, and he bears one striking similarity to the all-time great in Henderson. Bolden’s plus-plus speed is his standout tool, and he could steal 40 bases in the big leagues with work on his jumps. He could also use that speed in the outfield, where his fringe-average to average arm could make him an above-average Major League center fielder. His routes are very raw for now, but teams live on projection with someone like Bolden, whose frame also has great strength projectability. At the plate, Bolden is considerably rawer, but the projections run wild there. He has below-average current power, but some scouts project him to be above-average in that department as he fills out. There’s a lot of projection in that assessment, but it’s not an uncommon one. His hit tool is much better, though he hasn’t seen the sort of elite stuff that one would hope. However, he projects to be above-average at the plate, possibly a .290-.300 hitter with elite speed. All this adds up to a prospect that’s likely to go in the 2nd to 4th round range, and his Ole Miss commitment shouldn’t be a big hurdle in that range
5-3 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/5/3/1455597/casing-the-states-mississippi#storyjump - Ryan Bolden, OF, Madison Central HS, Madison - A rare right-handed hitting, but left-handed throwing athlete, Bolden is one of the more gifted overall athletes in the 2010 prep class. He features the best athletic tools of anyone in the state in this draft class, but he comes with a solid amount of risk. At the plate, he's very, very raw, and he struggles mightily with offspeed stuff. His hit tool projects as average at best due to major problems with pitch recognition, but he complements that tool with average raw power. His best offensive tool is plus speed that he uses fairly well on the basepaths, and he's more advanced as a baserunner than in any other facet of the game. In addition to his speed, Bolden features the best raw defensive tools in the state, though he's raw there, too. He has the ability to play an above-average center field, so it's all about getting repetitions and learning the nuances of the position. He has an average arm to complement his range, so most teams project him staying there long-term. Bolden offers some of the best upside in the state, but with all the risk, a lot of teams feel he'll end up at Ole Miss. Projected Draft Range: 3rd-7th Round
51. Reggie Williams – Middle Georgia College
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 289th
4-5: I was going to the game in order to see a number of prospects. The most notable name that is recognized nationally is Reggie Williams, who was a top prospect in the 2009 draft, only to slip due to signability and pitch recognition issues. He went unsigned by the Rangers as their 32nd round pick, and he headed to Middle Georgia to increase his draft stock. He’s already 20 years old, making him the same age as junior college sophomores, so he might be more signable than the majority of junior college freshmen. Williams finished out the game 3-6, and he essentially confirmed everything I’ve been hearing. He has real trouble reading breaking balls, but he has good raw tools to work with. He’s really big for a speedster, and while I peg him as a 65 runner right now, he might be a 55-60 runner as he matures. However, with an average arm and plus range, he’ll be a very good center fielder. He has some raw power in his swing, and he could hit 10-12 home runs a season in his prime, but he’s probably a bottom third hitter due to his pitch recognition problems, as he should strike out a fair number of times.
4-13 from: - http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/4/OpenTopic?a=tpc&s=114295945&f=6174069131&m=4361060202 - Following up on Reggie Williams. He's stronger and filled out a bit since last spring for sure and he still runs very well. Lots of swings and misses vs breaking stuff, but played flawless in the OF and stole a base vs Lincoln Trail on Sunday. More projection left in him, more than LeVon in my opinion. Definitely bat speed here with solid pop, ability to hit 8-15 HR in pro ball if he can get more plate discipline which will come down the road. Arm is playable for Center and/or Left and ran a 4.0 from the left side.
52. Mel Rojas Jr. – Wabash Valley College -
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 219th
4-7 from: http://www.baseballrumormill.com/2010/04/2010-draft-preview-matt-harvey-rising-kyle-blair-falling/#more - Mel Rojas Jr., Wabash Valley CC, OF: A true centerfielder, Rojas has shown good speed, an above-average arm and good bat speed. While he is not likely to be a power hitter, if he can hit for contact he could fit into the new, defensive-minded mold of an outfielder.
53. Scott Frazier – Upland HS (CA.)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 211th
54. Andy Workman – Arizona State –
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 227th
55. Andrew Toles – Sandy Creek HS (GA.)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 233rd
56. Jose Dore – The First Academy HS (FL.)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 245th
57. Daniel Grovatt – Virginia – junior L/L…
7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .294, 0-HR, 8-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game
1-26 from www.baseballdraftreport.com: - JR OF Dan Grovatt (2010) has a very patient approach at the plate, power to the gaps, average speed, and a good enough arm to play right field professionally. Sounds good, right? It should because Grovatt is a top five round caliber talent. My only worry is that his more good than great toolset makes him too similar a prospect to former Florida State standout Jack Rye. Rye was one of my all-time favorite college players and a guy I touted as a draft sleeper, but his pro numbers, especially his power indicators, haven’t exactly set the world on fire so far. The comparison is probably unfair – one player’s struggles don’t really have anything to do with another’s future – but, having seen both play, the similarity between the two seemed worth pointing out. However, the two aren’t clones of one another, either. Grovatt is the better athlete and defensive player, and he has more upside with the bat, especially in the power department. Those are all pretty important points in Grovatt’s favor. It’ll take more time and research to see where exactly Grovatt stacks up when compared to fellow 2010 college outfielders, but I have the feeling that he’ll grade out higher here than in most spots. His well-rounded game and extensive big-time college experience make him a good bet to hit the ground running professionally. I’d peg his upside as that of a solid everyday corner outfielder (defense included) with a still valuable floor as a good fourth outfielder.
3-17 from: - www.CollegeBaseball360.com: - Dan Grovatt – batting .424 for the season – played a central role in college baseball’s biggest series of the season thus far, as the Cavaliers (#2 in the CB360 Composite National Rankings) took 2-of-3 at #4 Florida State (5-0/9-8/8-9). Living up to his responsibility as the Cavs’ 3-hole hitter, Grovatt hit 8-for-14 (.571) during the FSU series and smacked three home runs while directly factoring into seven of the team’s runs spanning the three games (5 RBI, 5R). He helped deliver the first series win vs. Florida State in the history of Virginia baseball. Grovatt’s four hits and first career multi-HR game helped carry the Cavs to victory in the opener. One day later, in the series clincher, Grovatt was the relief pitcher of record (1IP-R-H-K) while also playing a role (H-R) in UVa’s stunning six-run rally in the top of the 9th. He added a home run in the tight series finale – and earlier in the week helped beat a William & Mary team that was fresh off an upset vs. North Carolina.
3-24 from: http://pnrscouting.com/articles_stockwatch_2010class_10onthrerise_03232010.html - Stock Watch: Ten on the Rise (2010 Draft Class) - Dan Grovatt, OF, Univ. of Virginia (#202 on PnR Preseason Top 300): Grovatt lacks the ceiling and athleticism of fellow Wahoo outfielder Jarrett Parker, but a disciplined approach at the plate has produced an impressive stat line through a month of play (.395/.642/.977, 4 HR, 4 2B, 2 3B, 12 BB, 13 SO, 104 PA), turning plenty of heads along the way. In addition to flashing some pop, he's working walks and consistently hitting in good counts -- both indicators that his success could very well continue throughout the spring. He lacks the projection to force his way into 1st round consideration, but could build enough momentum to climb into the 3rd or even 2nd round, similar to former Arizona St. center fielder, and current Cleveland Indians Minor Leaguer, Jason Kipnis in 2009.
58. Patrick Jones – Moeller hS (OH) –
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 292nd
59. Michael Lorenzen – Fullerton HS (CA) – 6-2, 180 – 6.8 speed… powerful arm… also pitches in the low 90s… needs to develop plate discipline
9-16: From www.baseballamerica.com : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 24. Michael Lorenzen, of/rhp Union HS, Fullerton, Calif.
1-27-10 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - A quick look at the top 15 outfielders for the 2010 draft. - #11- Michael Lorenzen- Union HS(CA)
2-25 from www.baseballamerica.com: - 2010 Preseason High School All-Americans – third Team -
60. Pat Biserta –
from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 15. JR OF Pat Biserta (2010 – Rutgers) only has one tool that grades out as above-average, but it is the ever important power tool. Just to be clear, we’re talking about the hitting the ball out of the ballpark kind of power tool, not the cordless drill kind of power tool
4-19 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/19/big-east-baseball-honors - Following an impressive week at the plate for the Scarlet Knights, BIG EAST home run leader junior OF Pat Biserta was named BIG EAST Baseball Player of the Week. Biserta led Rutgers to a 4-0 week behind three home runs, two doubles and six RBI. In a three-game series against USF, which entered the weekend ranked first in the BIG EAST standings, the junior batted .417 with two home runs. In Game 1, Biserta tallied the game-winning home run in the bottom of the eighth to give the Scarlet Knights the 8-7 victory. His 15 home runs on the season and .766 slugging percentage both rank first in the conference, while his 41 RBI rank third.
61. Adam Bailey:
3-17 from: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - Saturday: SR OF Adam Bailey (Nebraska): 5-8, HR, 4 RBI, 3 R in doubleheader… Sunday: SR OF Adam Bailey (Nebraska): 2-5, 2B, BB, 2 RBI, 3 R… Adam Bailey has the arm and raw tools with the bat to play right field professionally, but he’ll have to maintain the gains he has made in plate discipline if he wants to reach his ceiling
3-22 from: http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/03/22/adam-bailey-brandon-workman-big-12-baseball-player-of-the-week - PLAYER OF THE WEEK - Adam Bailey, Nebraska, OF, Sr., 6-1, 201, Scottsdale, Ariz./South Mountain CC - Bailey hit .562 (9-for-16) with two home runs and eight RBI leading Nebraska to a 2-2 week. The Scottsdale, Ariz. native tallied four multi-RBI games and three multi-hit contests while posting a 1.063 slugging percentage and a .611 on-base mark. Bailey went 7-for-11 with two homers, two doubles and six RBI in the three-game series at No. 2 Texas. He opened the week with a 2-for-5 effort and a pair of RBI against South Dakota State on Tuesday. At UT, the senior outfielder compiled three hits, including a homer, two RBI and two runs scored in NU’s 6-5 loss on Friday. The home run was the first allowed by UT’s Taylor Jungmann. Bailey guided Nebraska to a 5-3 victory over Texas on Saturday, going 1-for-3 with a game-tying two-run homer.
4-28 from: - http://www.pgcrosschecker.com/articles/DisplayArticle.aspx?article=2287 - Adam Bailey began his college baseball career at Arizona State as a pitcher, but he's finishing his college days at Nebraska as one of the top sluggers in the country. Bailey, a 6-foot-1, 200-pound right fielder, is hitting .388 with 15 home runs and 52 RBIs as a senior after going 2-for-4 against the Iowa Hawkeyes Tuesday night. He leads the Big 12 Conference in home runs, hits, RBIs and total bases, ranks second in slugging percentage and has the fifth-best batting average among all Big 12 players who have at least 100 at-bats. "My season is going all right. It's a different story with my team," he said softly after the Cornhuskers lost to Iowa, 5-2.
62. Ryan Enos – Dallas Baptist senior… 5-10, 181, L/L… 2009: .376, 17-HR, 56-RBI, 13 steals in 21 attempts…
11-20 from www.collegebaseballblog.com: - ranked the 62nd top college baseball player
12-20 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com – voyed to the 2010 MCBWA 2nd team all-american squad
63. Trent Whitehead – East Carolina – junior… 2009: .376 7-HR 47-RBI
12-20 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com – voyed to the 2010 MCBWA 1st team all-american squad
64. Kyle Roller – East Carolina – junior – 2009: .336 16-HR 75-RBI
12-20 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com – voyed to the 2010 MCBWA 1st team all-american squad
12-20 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com – voyed to the 2010 MCBWA 1st team all-american squad
65. Sam Wilson –
1-21 from www.baseballamerica: - Sam Wilson, of, Eldorado HS, Albuquerque, New Mexico: Lefthanded all the way, Wilson is a strong and athletic outfielder with multi-tool ability. He ran a bookend pair of 60ss at 6.62 and 6.63, and displayed a decent arm—86 mph off the mound on Saturday. As a hitter, Wilson’s bat hisses as it whips through the hitting area. However, Wilson is hampered by a tendency to get his weight out on his front foot, and he begins his swing with his hands in a weak position.
66. Dillon Meyer -
1-21 from www.baseballamerica: - Dillon Meyer, of, Palo Verde HS, Las Vegas: The surprise “find” of this showcase, Meyer is an outfielder that bats and throws righthanded and reminds scouts of Cutter Dykstra, drafted in the 2nd round by Milwaukee in 2008. Meyer has blistering speed, registering a 6.63 60 and then following with a 6.37 time that caused every timer to ask, “Did we get that right?” During infield/outfield drills, Meyer showed off an impressive arm. In BP, he hammered several hard line drives, but Meyer’s hitting mechanics are raw and need adjustment.
67. Matt Newman – Arizona State – 5-11, 175… spent summer with USA Team: .315/1-HR/13-RBI
July 13: went 3-5, with 4-RBIs for Team USA in their 7-5 loss to Team Japan… hitting .424 with 10 RBIs so far for Team USA
7-20: In the 6-3 Team USA loss to Team Germany: hit solo home run
10-14 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com: - named the 99th top player in college baseball
11-9 from www.mlbresource.com: - Matt Newman, OF/LHP Arizona State - Newman is an outfielder at the next level. Scouts see a lot of what Mark Kotsay was at Cal State Fullerton.
68. Johnny Field –
1-21 from www.baseballamerica: - Johnny Field, of, Bishop Gorman HS, Las Vegas: A powerfully-built righthander, Field ran well (6.71) and threw acceptably during infield and outfield. He exhibited interesting exit speed in his BP session, but, as with most high school hitters, his swing mechanics need alteration. Field grips the bat too tightly and buckles his front knee as he follows through.
69. Devon Dageford – Louisiana Tech – senior… 2009: .385 23-HR 68-RBI
12-20 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com – voted to the 2010 MCBWA 1st team all-american squad
70. Kurtis Muller – Iowa – 5-10, 165, Junior
7-24 – Fr. www.rivals.yahoo.com: The skinny: Muller had an average spring campaign for the Hawkeyes and finished the season hitting .296 with a pair of homers and 20 RBIs. But with a wood bat this summer, Muller has elevated his game in many ways. For the Mallards, Muller is hitting .328 with eight doubles, a triple, three homers and 23 RBIs. He also was named the Most Valuable Player of the Northwoods All-Star game.
71. Mark Canha – Univ. of California – Junior – 6-2, 195… 2009: .366, 17-2B, 12-HR, 43-RBI, 75-H, 130-TB, .634 SLG, .444-OBP, 44-R… earned All-Pac 10… also plays 1B… hits for power… good threat for base stealing
72. Chris Lewis – Western Michigan – 6-0, 190, senior, S/R… played 2009 summer ball for the Battle Creek Bombers…
7-24 – Fr. www.rivals.yahoo.com: The skinny: Lewis is another player having a year to remember. Lewis finished the spring at Western Michigan hitting .318 with seven homers and 39 RBIs. He’s also making a huge statement at the Northwoods League this summer. He is hitting .333 with seven doubles, four triples, three homers and 35 RBIs. He also is slugging .458 and has an impressive .425 on-base percentage. His summer is good news for the Broncos.
73. Kolten Wong – Hawaii - named to the 2009 USA Baseball national team… 2009: .341, 11-HR, 21-doubles, 52-RBIs, 46-R, 11-SB… led team in outfield assists.
74. Rance Roundy – UNLV – 6-2, 180, junior… 2008: .283 (53-187) with two home runs and 30 RBI ... Scored 31 runs and had 14 extra-base hits ... Had 14 multi-hit games, including seven of three or more.. played 2009 summer ball for the Rochester Honkers.
7-24 – Fr. www.rivals.yahoo.com: The skinny: Roundy is having a year to remember at the plate. This past spring with the Rebels, Roundy finished the season hitting .364 with three homers, 32 RBIs and a .403 on-base percentage. His summer at the Northwoods has been equally impressive. Roundy is hitting .322 with 19 doubles, a triple, five homers and 25 RBIs. He also is slugging .519 and has a .393 on-base percentage. The Rebels desperately will need another productive campaign from him next spring.
75. Casey McGrew - Wright State –
76. James Meador – San Diego – senior… 2009: .376 in 213 at bats… .976 fielding… projects out as right fielder
77. Ryan Dew – Ohio State – Senior… 6-1, 220, L/L… led team in hitting in 2009: .388/.429/.562… 7-HR, 42-RBI… 1.000% fielding percentage
78. Evan Hilton – Woodlands HS (GA) – 5-10, 165, S/L – two-way… athletic… very accurate outfield arm… 6.93 speed… 83-86 fastball…
79. Brandon Beans – Hartsville HS (SC) – 5-10, 175… also is RHP…
PG Cross Checker ranks Beans as the 7th top SC prospect out of high school, and the 348th in the nation…
80. Corey Dickerson – MCC – junior… 5-tooler… drafted by Rockies in 29th round out of high school… freshman: 15-HR,54-RBI, 14-SB, earning All-America honors… runs 60 in 6:58…
5-3 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/5/3/1455597/casing-the-states-mississippi#storyjump - Corey Dickerson, OF, Meridian CC - The lone junior college player from Mississippi on this list, Dickerson has been well-known in the state for a few years. A graduate of Brookhaven Academy in Brookhaven, Mississippi, Dickerson went undrafted out of high school, but then turned in one of the most productive freshman years in school history for Meridian, leading him to get drafted in the 29th round by the Rockies a year ago. He ended up being the only Colorado draftee from the first and second days of the draft that didn't sign. Instead, he returned to school, and he's simply dominating his competition this year, leading him to start climbing draft boards. His tools are solid across the board, and he offers some of the best offensive upside from a junior college bat this year. He features an above-average hit tool and above-average raw power, and he combines that with average speed. Add in a solid-average arm and you have yourself a prototypical right fielder for size, strength, and tools. Scouts generally like his left-handed swing, and even though he's committed to Mississippi State, most think he's signable if he's picked early enough in the second day of the draft. Projected Draft Range: 5th-10th Round
81. Taylor Kaczmarek – Desert Ridge HS (AZ) – 6-2, 210, R/R – very lively swing… raw power, projects out eithr on corners or first base….
82. Jordan Scott – Greer HS (SC) – 6-1, 160… also plays shortstop… verbally committed to South Carolina…
PG Gross Checker ranks Scott the 24th top SC high school prospect, and 288th overall in the nation…
83. David Donald – J.L. Mann (SC) – 5-11, 175… verbally committed to College of Charleston…
PG Cross Checker ranks Donald as the 481st top prospect in the nation
84. Kyle LeBlanc – Newburyport H.S. – 6-0 - average bat… 6.41 in 60-yds… solid fielding… projects as CF
85. Zach Cone – Georgia – freshman R/R…
7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .267, 1-HR, 9-RBI… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game
86. JaDamion Williams – Brooks-DeBartolo HS (FL) – 6-1, 185 –
7-29: From www.baseballfactory.com: - Williams is very fast and athletic. A switch-hitter, he has a quick bat and explosive swing from both sides of the plate. Williams’ father Reggie played four years in the big leagues with the Angels and Dodgers.
87. Marcus Davis – verbally committed to LSU -
9-8: www.pgtracker.com lists as one of the top 10 high school players coming out of Ohio.
88. Robert Maddox – Ohio… plays first base also…
9-8-9: www.pgtracker.com lists as one of the top 10 college players coming out of Ohio.
4-19 from: - http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/4/OpenTopic?q=Y&a=tpc&s=114295945&f=6174069131&m=4361060202&p=4 – OF, Robert Maddox III, Ohio U, 6'2 200, L/L, strong kid, strength in his swing and adjustments, crushed NIU pitching in 2 games I witnessed in DeKalb over the weekend. Ran 4.3 from the left side, crushed a HR to deep RC off a 87 fb, threw the ball well enough to play any of the 3 OF positions at the next level and possibly 1b, ala, Willie Upshaw anyone? Great kid and makeup.
89. Ben Klafczynski – Kent State -
9-8: www.pgtracker.com lists as one of the top 10 college players coming out of Ohio.
90. Adam Eaton – Miami (OH) -
9-8: www.pgtracker.com lists as one of the top 10 college players coming out of Ohio.
91. Brian Kordal – Akron –
10-7 from: - www.mlbresource.blogspot.com: - Brian Kordal---OF---After struggling at the plate in his first two seasons, senior Brian Kordal had a monster junior year. Hitting .346 with 5 HR and a team leading 44 RBI will be asked to be repeated from Coach Bangston.
92. Noel Rico – CF – Coastal Carolina
10-19 from www.mlbresource.com - when Coastal Carolina begins it's 2010 season they will know that they can beat teams with their legs. Back for their junior years are speedsters CF Noel Rico (right) and LF Scott Woodward. Rico in 2009 stole 48 bags and Woodward swiped 30 of his own. Not only are the pair covering ground on the bases, but they are tracking down everything that is in the vicinity in the outfield. One AL Scout said "Rico and Woodward remind me of the Tampa Bay Rays outfield because you simply can't get anything to land around them." Both are juniors this season so who knows if this duo comes back in 2011 or will they be trying cover ground in the minor leagues
93. Daniel Camerena - Cathedral CHS (CA.) -
11-27: from www.baseballamerica.com: - Re: 2009 World Wood Bat Association World Championship - outfielder/lefthander Daniel Camarena from Cathedral Catholic in Bonita, Calif., the tournament’s most valuable player.
94. Chad Jones – LSU junior..
12-22 fr. http://baseballdraftreport.com: - JR OF Chad Jones (2010) is a problem for me. It is very easy for me to get in the habit of being too darn positive about these prospects because it is more fun to think about upside and ceilings and perfect world projections while ignoring the nasty reality that so many little things can go wrong to torpedo any given player’s prospect stock between now and June. I try my best to be mean, to find red flags about players I know I’m overrating based on upside. Chad Jones probably should be one of those red flag players because, logically at least, there has to be at least a couple tools duds sprinkled into this star packed LSU outfield. Mahtook, Landry, Watkins, Dishon, Dean, and Jones all can’t be serious big league prospects, can they? Watkins is the speed guy, Dean is the well-rounded senior masher, but Mahtook, Landry, Dishon, and Jones are all big-time projection guys cut from the same ultra-toolsy cloth. Of those four, Jones is probably the best athlete. To take it a step further, Jones may actually be the most unbelievable athlete of the entire 2010 college class. He has great size, speed, and strength with a definite plus arm and above-average power potential. I put him in the same class as Jake Locker last year, for better or worse. Each player has enormous untapped potential on the diamond (for better!) which, unfortunately for baseball fans, may forever go untapped due to the presence of football (for worse…). There are so many questions surrounding Jones heading into his baseball season that is quite difficult to even place a draft value on him. Does he even play baseball this year for LSU? If so, will he actually attempt to play while simultaneously prepping for the NFL Draft Combine and pre-draft workouts? If he sticks with baseball, is his future brighter in the field or on the mound? Does he put it all off and stick another year out at LSU just to make us ask all of these questions again a year from now? The word is that his first love is baseball, but there are undeniable advantages in taking a top three round NFL signing bonus while keeping the possibility of baseball in your back pocket just in case. It should be fine following Jones whichever path he chooses…assuming he makes the right choice and chooses baseball, of course. That’s a joke…mostly.
95. Johnny Dishon – LSU eligible sophomore -
12-22 fr. http://baseballdraftreport.com: - SO OF Johnny Dishon (2010) is yet another legit well-rounded five-tool talent. He has above-average speed, a plus arm, plays a good enough centerfield (though he fits best in right professionally), and has a really promising hit tool. After redshirting last season, he finds himself draft-eligible in 2010, but, and I’m sure a pretty clear theme is developing here, he has plenty to prove this upcoming season. Dishon heads into the season as LSU’s fourth outfielder, a testament to this team’s crazy outfield depth. At this point I consider Dishon to be one of the most underrated prospects in college baseball. He still swings and misses too often, but his base running is top notch and the pop in his bat could grow into real power with more reps.
96. Matt Guadet – LSU senior – plays 1B also…
12-22 fr. http://baseballdraftreport.com: - SR OF/1B Matt Gaudet (2010) is a player that finally helps answer the question what would a baseball player with severe sfairesphobia look like out in the field. In other, non-bastardized Greek words, Gaudet is a bit of a butcher defensively. His raw power is impressive, but he has a lot to prove after sitting out the 2009 season and, unfortunately for him, not a lot of time to do it. He is currently slated to be LSU’s righthanded hitting half of their designated hitter platoon.
97. Jimmy Parque – St. John’s junior… 2009: .360, 5-HR, 61-RBI
1-4: named to the 2010 Preseason All-Big East First Team as named by a vote of conference coaches:
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 9. SR OF Jimmy Parque (2010 – St. John’s) was a 40th round pick out of junior college in 2008 with solid gap power and a good approach at the dish. His size (5-9, 170) may be a deterrent for some teams, but a big final college season could make him a late round senior sign candidate.
98. Junior Carlin – USF junior – 2009: .384, 0-HR, 27-RBI
1-4: named to the 2010 Preseason All-Big East First Team as named by a vote of conference coaches
99. Dave Giuliani
1-23-10 from www,baseballdraftreport.com:- JR OF Dave Giuliani (2010) ought to be in the running for some playing time in Stanford’s wide open outfield. A big junior year could get him noticed as a potential above-average big league backup outfielder option down the line. Giuliani does a lot right on defense (average in center, above-average on the corners, plus a very strong arm) and on the base paths (55 speed), but has a lot to prove with the bat. His lack of playing time his first two seasons at Stanford make him a good bet to stick around campus through his senior year.
100. Jeff Rowland –
1-28 from http://baseballdraftreport.com - JR OF Jeff Rowland (2010) is probably the single toolsiest player on the Georgia Tech roster. His plus speed, above-average power potential, gorgeous lefthanded swing, and above-average defense in center will comfortably get him into the top five rounds. His speed and ability to play center give him the edge over the similarly talented bat of Virginia OF Dan Grovatt.
101. Chase Burnett –
1-28 from http://baseballdraftreport.com - JR OF Chase Burnette (2010 – Georgia Tech) can play. His sophomore .351/.447/.691 line (albeit in only 97 at bats) shows the promise he has at the plate. On top of that, he’s a very good athlete with solid speed and an accurate outfield arm. In the past Burnette’s draft stock might have been dinged by teams that considered him to be a tweener – not quite a good enough defender for center, not quite the bat of a big league slugger in a corner. However, as more and more front offices begin to properly value defense, perhaps the market for a potential league average bat with an above-average glove will see a bump on draft day.
102. Gabriel Saade –
1-28 from http://baseballdraftreport.com - 12. SR OF Gabriel Saade (2010 – Duke) is a difficult player to figure out. He went into his junior year as a legitimate pro prospect, a versatile defender capable of playing anywhere up the middle (2B, SS, CF) coming off of two solid years playing every day in the ACC (.269/.354/.456 as a freshman, .286/.376/.483 as a sophomore). His junior year didn’t quite go according to plan, unless Saade’s plan was to hit .237/.339/.333. If that was the case, then his plan really couldn’t have gone any better. The big dip in numbers is concerning, especially the total disappearance of power, but there are some positives to glean from his 2009 performance. His K/BB ratio has dipped each season (2.26 to 1.96 to 1.33) and his stolen base numbers have remained consistently stellar (46/54 collegiately, including his stint in the Valley League). If he can bounce back to his pre-junior levels of production, something many scouts think he is capable of doing if he stops being so darn pull-happy, then he has a shot at being an interesting senior sign (round 15-25, maybe) for a team believing in his future as a steady fielding big league utility player.
103. Ben Bunting –
1-28 from http://baseballdraftreport.com - 14. JR OF Ben Bunting (2010 – North Carolina) brings two plus tools to the table – plus speed and plus defense. I’m a pretty big Tyler Holt fan, so please consider the following statement a compliment: Bunting is the homeless man’s version of Holt. Of course, while Holt has the upside of a big league starter, Bunting’s ceiling is probably that of a speedy fifth outfielder.
104. Jay Dantzler –
1-28 from http://baseballdraftreport.com - 15. SR OF Jay Dantzler (2010 – Georgia Tech) looks like a pretty solid senior sign candidate to me. In many ways he is an older version of fellow Georgia Tech outfielder Chase Burnette. Both players are good athletes, have decent arms, and have shown enough promise with the bat to at least get him a few looks here and there from scouts. His junior year numbers (.281/.397/.579) show a player with tons of patience and emerging power. But if he really is an older version of Burnette,
then the elephant of the room becomes bigger, louder, and, yes, even brighter. It’s a big loud glowing elephant, and that elephant is age. Dantzler will be 23 years old by draft day. Even still, a big senior year could get him drafted in the last half of the draft.
105. Michael Lang –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 2. JR OF Michael Lang (2010 – Rutgers) offers up a very intriguing power/speed combination, emphasis on the speed. The former walk-on has come a long way since enrolling at Rutgers; I actually like him a little bit better than his more highly regarded teammate Jaren Matthews. Lang has the ability to play centerfield professionally and his plus arm should make him a defensive athlete in due time. His offensive skill set could make him an option hitting leadoff in the big leagues someday.
106. Ryan Lockwood –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 3. JR OF Ryan Lockwood (2010 – South Florida) couldn’t duplicate the success of his outstanding freshman campaign, but still showed off enough of his toolset to keep scouts happy. Lockwood has good speed, plays above-average defense, and has average raw power (though little of it has manifested just yet). His best tool is obviously the bat, something a .415 freshman batting average does a good job of arguing in favor of. His draft stock will shoot up as high as his bat takes him, but his other skills (namely the defense and speed) will help keep him in the first 15-20 rounds even if he doesn’t hit .400 again.
107. Josh Richmond –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 4. JR OF Josh Richmond (2010 – Louisville) delivers five solid tools – defense good enough for center, a very strong arm, emerging power but questionable ceiling with the bat, and average speed. Richmond is currently below the radar a little bit, but he could pretty easily put it all together and get himself picked in the first ten rounds this spring.
108. Anthony Howard –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 5. SO OF Anthony Howard (2010 – Cincinnati) is a draft-eligible sophomore with a lot to like about his game. He is a solid contact hitter who goes to the plate with a plan in mind. That, along with his plus athleticism and good speed, should make him a successful leadoff hitter going forward. Some teams may like him more as an infielder, a position he played in high school. He has great baseball instincts no matter where he plays, and his above-average arm should play well at any position.
109. Mikel Hutson –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 6. JR OF Mikel Huston (2010 – Cincinnati) comes to Cincinnati with the reputation as a hitter first and an athlete second. That’s alright by me so long as you can really hit, something we won’t really know about Huston until he starts getting his swings in this spring. Early word, so take it for what it’s worth, is that he has an advanced hit tool with enough power potential to get on follow lists. He has below-average speed that will relegate to him to an outfield corner, but, again take these for what they are, early reports are that his defensive instincts are excellent. I’d guess he doesn’t have quite enough bat to ever play every day, but could make a solid backup down the line.
110. Justin Riddell –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 7. JR OF Justin Riddell (2010 – Cincinnati) is a good natural hitter that may not have the requisite secondary skills to make it as much more of a role player professionally.
111. Brandon Boykin –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 8. OF/2B JR Brandon Boykin (2010 – Rutgers) may be coming off a poor sophomore year, but his plus speed and excellent athleticism make him worth watching this spring. His value will go up if scouts believe he can play in the infield.
112. Josh Schultz –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 10. JR OF John Schultz (2010 – Pittsburgh) doesn’t have any exceptional tools, but his good plate discipline means he rarely gets cheated at the plate and his good speed can help him take extra bases when needed on the base paths.
113. Stephen Hunt –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 11. JR OF Stephen Hunt (2010 – South Florida) has a strong arm tailor made for right field and enough pop to garner some attention, but probably needs a big junior season if he wants to exceed his draft standing (17th round) out of high school here in 2010
114. Junior Carlin –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 12. JR OF Junior Carlin (2010 – South Florida) profiles similarly to teammate Ryan Lockwood, except Carlin put together a huge batting average dependent line as a sophomore while Lockwood’s big line (.415/.493/.513) came in his freshman season. Like Lockwood, Carlin can also play a legitimate centerfield, but, unlike Lockwood, his speed has been questioned. So, he’s like Lockwood but without some of the speed and the secondary hitting skills. Not an awful prospect, but not a stone cold lock to be drafted either
115. Jarred Jiminez –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 13. SR OF Jarred Jimenez (2010 – Rutgers) is a bit of a rarity, a small (5-9, 190) outfielder without the speed and range to project as a centerfielder. He does have good plate discipline, so he has at least that one plus going for him
116. David Mills –
2-9 from baseballdraftreport.com: - Top Big East Outfielders: - 14. SR OF David Mills (2010 – Notre Dame) is a similar player to Jarred Jimenez of Rutgers – strong arm, corner outfielder, tiny (5-9, 165), great plate discipline. Mills is probably the better runner of the two. He has a reputation of being a line drive machine, but the knocks against him (size, power, can’t play center) keep his ceiling from being much higher than fifth outfielder on a good day.
117. Ridge Carpenter –
2-17 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com - 2010 MLB Draft College Conference Position Breakdowns – Big West Outfielders - JR OF Ridge Carpenter (2010 – Cal State Northridge) is a big personal favorite. He has a five-tool ceiling, with speed and potential plus defense in center being his calling cards. His good approach, in addition to the aforementioned speed, make him a potential leadoff hitter, but his game is much more than the slash and dash style so many other college leadoff hitters employ. He has enough current pop — his .679 slugging percentage trumped his next closest junior college teammate by a whopping 185 points, how’s that for context? – and a big league frame (6-2, 190) that make me think his easy swing will continue to generate power as he gets more reps against top level pitching. He has what it takes to be a top five round player, I think.
118. Nick Longmire –
2-17 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com - 2010 MLB Draft College Conference Position Breakdowns – Big West Outfielders - JR OF Nick Longmire (2010 – Pacific) is an above-average athlete who has demonstrated good range in centerfield. If you’ve read enough of these blurbs, you’d know that the combination of athleticism and good defense in center can give a prospect a huge head start on the competition. Longmire takes his head start and runs with it. He has above-average power potential, good bat speed, and success with wood bats from summer league play. He profiles best as a fourth outfielder capable of doing a little bit of everything pretty well. I’ve heard a Jay Payton comp thrown his way and, despite Payton’s far more decorated collegiate career, I don’t think I hate it from a tools standpoint.
119. Luke Yoder –
2-17 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com - 2010 MLB Draft College Conference Position Breakdowns – Big West Outfielders - SR OF Luke Yoder (2010 – Cal Poly) was a gymnast for 13 years. Now that we’ve got that bit out of the way, we can talk about Yoder the ballplayer. His strong points include a good power/patience blend, heady base running, and, yes, impressive athleticism due in no small part to all those years on the balance beam. The case against his prospectdom include his age (he’ll turn 23 one month after the draft) and his sometimes shaky outfield defense. As a mid- to late-round senior sign, he’d make sense for a team looking for a potentially quick moving backup outfielder/AAAA bench bat depth piece. It’s also important to note that Yoder has been drafted twice already
120. Michael Hur –
2-17 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com - 2010 MLB Draft College Conference Position Breakdowns – Big West Outfielders - SR OF Michael Hur (2010 – UC Riverside) has had scouts eagerly waiting on his power potential for years now, finally breaking through last season. However, questions still linger about whether it was the first step toward a continued power surge or a fluky one year spike. There have been enough concerns from those smarter than I that Hur doesn’t have the physical strength to ever be much more than the occasional gap power hitter professionally. I suppose to take that viewpoint would be to make the claim that last season was a power outlier. On top of that, Hur doesn’t really have any standout tools to speak of. He has average range and a decent throwing arm. He’ll be a late round senior sign.
121. Connor Kendrick –
3-1 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - -Northgate’s best player is Conner Kendrick, who played center field for them in Saturday’s contest. He’s mainly a prospect as a pitcher, and he brings high-80s heat from the left side on the mound. He has a Georgia Tech commitment for next year, and he’s probably a late-teens to mid-twenties pick on talent, though I completely expect him to land at Tech for the 2011 season. During Northgate’s outfield throws during warm-ups, as soon as he let go of the ball, the area scout standing next to me said, “Wooo…Conner Kendrick!!” He hadn’t even noticed anyone else on the field, but Kendrick’s plus arm in center certainly got his attention.
122. Chase Burnette -
3/7 from: http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Stock Up - Chase Burnette, OF, Georgia Tech: I put Burnette here based on the five games I’ve seen him play in so far. He has come out on fire this year for Tech, and it’s for good reason. He’s stronger, having put on over 15 pounds of weight since last year, and he’s seeing the ball better than ever before, adding up to solid production. I had a conversation with a scout about Burnette, as he hadn’t seen Burnette yet this year until Friday afternoon, and he didn’t have anything on him from previous years. He was impressed with Burnette’s batting practice display, as he did put on the best display both days I was there. He’s showing most of what it takes to be a fourth or fifth outfielder, which is up from a spot as an organizational outfielder. He sprays the ball around well, and he shows fringe-average to average power, which should be good enough for that bench lefty spot. He’s a decent defender, but he did drop a ball coming in and to his right on the Saturday game, resulting in a big error that cost his team some runs. His arm is below-average, and he’ll have to be a left fielder at the next level.
123. Zack Hurley -
PLAYER OF THE WEEK - Zach Hurley, Ohio State - Sr., LF, Springboro, Ohio/Springboro - Hurley led the Buckeyes to a 3-1 record last weekend with wins over Duquesne, St. Louis and Fairleigh Dickinson. The senior hit .571 over four games, reaching base at a .609 clip and slugging at a 1.048 rate for an OPS of 1.657. The left-fielder recorded multiple hits in every game, including a 5-for-5 performance on Sunday against the Knights. Hurley also scored six runs and drove in seven over the weekend, recording seven extra-base hits with five doubles, a triple and a home run, coming a single shy of the cycle in Game 1 against the Billikens on Saturday. The weekly honor is the first of Hurley’s career and the second for a Buckeye position player this season.
124. Mark Micowski -
3-9 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/03/09/ncbwa-national-players-of-the-week-3/#more-24226 - The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA)¬ released the Pro-Line Athletic National Player of the Week awards for the period ending March 7, today. Georgia State junior outfielder Mark Micowski was named National Hitter of the Week - Micowski led the Panthers to a 4-1 week, batting .636 (14-for-22), with 14 runs scored, two home runs, 10 RBIs, 27 total bases, five doubles, one triple, a 1.227 slugging percentage, .679 on base percentage and a pair of steals to go along with several school records. On Friday night, the Haddam, Conn. Native, hit for the cycle in the first four innings, finishing the game 7-for-8 with four runs scored and seven RBIs. He set a school record for at bats with eight, as well as hits with seven. He helped the team break the school runs record of 32 (which was broken again on Sunday), as the team set records for doubles, hits, at bats, RBIs and triples. He tied the school record with three doubles and 15 total bases. In game one of the doubleheader on Saturday, he went 3-for-4 with three runs scored. On Sunday, he set the GSU runs scored record with six, going 2-for-5 at the plate. He helped the Panthers score a school-record 103 runs on the weekend in the four-game series with the Eagles.
125. Sean Dwyer
3-12 from http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/draft/draft-tracker/2010/269639.html - OF, Tavares (Fla.) HS - Dwyer got a lot of looks playing on the FTB Mizuno team in Jupiter from scouts that wanted to get an early look at two of the top 2012 high school hitters, shortstop Addison Russell and outfielder Jesse Winker. The 6-foot, 190-pound Dwyer has a nice swing from the left side of the plate and is committed to Florida Gulf Coast. "He's a good looking hitter—good setup, good approach, swings the bat pretty good with wood, at least in batting practice," an American League area scout said. "Good makeup kid, hard working kid, intelligent. He's probably a first baseman or left fielder, however you like him—not third base. But the bat's his best tool. He's got a good approach and he's out there hitting a lot and a lot of scouts have the ability to go out and see him take batting practice early in the day with wood. He's been very accommodating with scouts, so I think that's going to help him."
126. Dylan Brown –
3-12 from http://www.pgcrosschecker.com/articles/DisplayArticle.aspx?article=2201 - DYLAN BROWN, of-ss, SR, Smithfield-Selma HS. A North Carolina State recruit, Brown has obvious talent but didn’t necessarily have one of his better days. Normally an outfielder, he was playing shortstop on this day, and while his actions were a little rough his hands and actions suggest that he might be able to play second base with some refinement. Offensively, Brown has a smooth, polished approach from the left side and grades out as an average runner.
127. David Schulze:
3-15 from: http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/03/15/southern-conference-players-of-the-week-march-15th/#more-24421 - Samford outfielder David Schulze has been named the Southern Conference Baseball Player of the Week for all games from March 8-14. - Schulze batted .632 (12-for-19) with two doubles, three home runs and 10 RBIs in Samford’s four games last week. The senior from Santo Domingo, D.R., had a 5-for-5 game in Friday’s SoCon opener against College of Charleston and topped that with a 6-for-6 effort in Sunday’s finale. On Sunday, Schulze’s six hits included a pair of home runs, three singles and a double to reach 13 total bases and a 2.167 slugging percentage for the game. In Samford’s Southern Conference series against the Cougars, Schulze batted .733 (11-for-15) with two doubles, three home runs and nine RBIs.
128. Robbie Anston:
3-16 from http://baseballdraftreport.com - Saturday: JR OF Robbie Anston (Boston College): 2-3, 2B, BB, R - Anston is an underrated 2010 outfielder with good gap power and strong baseball instincts. I wish I had more confident reports about his defense in center because the ability to play above-average defense up the middle would really give his prospect stock the shot in the arm it needs.
4-26 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/26/acc-baseball-weekly-honors - Boston College outfielder Robbie Anston has been named the Atlantic Coast Conference Baseball Player of the Week. Anston continued his torrid hitting streak throughout last week, recording three hits in each of BC’s four games. The senior from Odessa, Fla., is currently on a nine-game hitting streak and has recorded two or more hits and an extra-base hit in each of the last six games. Anston led the Eagles in batting, runs, hits, doubles, homers, RBI, total bases (23) and slugging (1.045) and was second in on-base percentage (.545) for the week. In the first game of a three-game series sweep at NC State, Anston accounted for six of BC’s nine runs as he drove in three and scored three runs of his own. Anston also came up big in clutch situations as he drove in the game-winning runs on Saturday. With the bases loaded with one out and the score tied, Anston singled to center on a 1-2 count to drive in two runs to give BC the 10-8 win. Then on Sunday with BC down 7-6 in the top of the eighth, he led off with a solo home run to tie the game in an eventual comeback win.
129. Matt Szczur -
3-18 from: - http://collegebaseball360.com/2010/03/18/two-sport-report-week-2 - Matt Szczur - Villanova - 5’11-195-Jr. – Football: WR & Baseball: OF - Szczur is second on the team with .458 BA scoring 18 runs and 7 RBI in helping Villanova to a 11-2 mark.Szczur was second team All-CAA in football last season as a sophomore. He was named the Colonial Athletic Associations Offensive Player of the Year and Special Teams Player of the Year in 2009. He is just the second player in CAA history to receive two major awards in the same season.
5-4 from: - http://collegebaseball360.com/2010/05/03/villanovas-szczur-to-donate-bone-marrow - Right fielder Matt Szczur was not available to play during the Villanova baseball three-game series against Georgetown last weekend at the Villanova Ballpark at Plymouth. Szczur has begun taking medication in preparation for a bone marrow donation in the near future. On the baseball diamond this spring, Szczur (click link to listen to a podcast interview with Szczur) is batting a team-best .435 in 36 games. He has been the team’s best all-around offensive player and leads Villanova in on-base percentage (.483), slugging percentage (.634), doubles (11), triples (6) and home runs (3). He hit for the cycle last week in Villanova’s 17-10 win over Temple.
130. Anthony Gallas: -
3-21 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/03/21/foleys-saturday-thoughts/#more-24616 - Anthony Gallas of Kent State went 5-6 at the plate while hitting for the cycle, driving in six runs, and scoring three times as the Golden Flashes defeated Winthrop 16-10. The cycle was the first by a Kent State player since Steve Smetana completed the feat in 1995. Kent State coach Scott Stricklin about Anthony Gallas, "He was really locked in and he hit the ball to all fields, He took the ball and pulled it and he hit it to the opposite field. That is the first time I have seen someone hit for the cycle in a while."
131. Matt Rice –
3-24 from: - www.sunBeltSports.org - Western Kentucky University’s Matt Rice earned this week’s Sun Belt Conference Player and Pitcher of the Week honors the league office announced on Monday. Rice continued his hitting tear at the plate, going 14-for-26 (.538) with 11 runs scored, seven doubles, two home runs and 13 RBI during the week of March 15. He recorded multi-hit games in four of the five games played, also notching four hits twice. At 18th-ranked Vanderbilt on March 16, Rice was 4-for-6 with a two doubles, a grand slam and five RBI as he helped lead the Hilltoppers to a 17-2 win over the Commodores. He also had a two-double game and a three-double game against VCU over the weekend. He reached base at a .571 clip for the week and slugged 1.038.
132. James Baldwin –
3-26 from: - http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/draft/draft-tracker/2010/269724.html - James Baldwin, of, Pinecrest HS, Southern Pines, N.C. - The son of the former righthanded pitcher of the same name, the younger Baldwin is just as tall as his dad but is a lot leaner and more athletic. Baldwin is a three-sport star for Pinecrest High. He was a four-year starter on the football team as a highly-recruited wide receiver, and an all-conference forward on the basketball team. But he's giving up those sports to focus solely on baseball from here on out. Through his first eight games, Baldwin was hitting .500/.552/.654 with two doubles, two home runs and five stolen bases. He's very instinctive on the basepaths and steals third base like he owns it. Baldwin is an Elon recruit and the 6-foot-3, 187-pounder has an extremely projectable frame with long arms and legs. He glides in the outfield and easily covers a large swath of land with his long, graceful strides. His arms make his swing a little long at the plate, but his swing also produces a lot of leverage, giving him power potential from the left side of the plate as he fills out and grows into his body.
133. P.J. Polk –
4-5 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/05/sec-players-of-the-week-8 - PLAYER OF THE WEEK - P.J. Polk • Tennessee Junior • OF • Murfreesboro, Tenn. • UT top offensive performer during a week in which it posted a 4-1 record, including back-to-back victories on the road against No. 11 Ole Miss to claim its first SEC series victory of the season…Hit at a .524 clip with a team-high 11 hits in 24 at-bats…Also posted a squad best nine runs while blasting out four longballs, including the first two home run performance of his career against the Rebels on Saturday. • Had four home runs in the first four games of the week to give him a team-leading six on the season…Had at least one hit in all five games during the week to extend his season-long hitting streak to 10 games…Slugged at an incredible 1.095
134. Laurn Randell:
4-12 from: http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/12/southland-conference-players-of-the-week-7 - Texas State outfielder Laurn Randell has been named the Southland Conference Hitter of the Week. Randell led Texas State’s offensive attack this weekend, batting .733 in four games and helping Texas State to a 3-1 week. The senior from Austin, Texas (McCallum), went 1-for-4 at Baylor, but shined in the Bobcats’ three-game sweep of Central Arkansas. He went 5-for-5 with three RBI and two runs in the opening game of the series and fell a double shy of the cycle because he stretched out his second triple on the day. Randell also notched his first home run of the season in the 14-2 run-rule win to be named Hitter of the Day in Baseball America’s Around the Nation Blog. Randell remained perfect at the plate reaching base each time, going 2-for-2 with a pair of walks and a hit by pitch. He closed out the series with a 3-for-4 effort, including his third homer of the series. Against the Bears, Randell batted .909 with a 2.091 slugging percentage and a .938 on-base percentage, while adding one outfield assist and a pair of stolen bases.
135. Nate Shaver:
http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/13/wac-players-of-the-week-8 - New Mexico State’s Nate Shaver has been named the Verizon Western Athletic Conference Baseball Hitter of the Week, respectively, for April 5-11. Shaver, a senior outfielder from The Dalles, Ore. (Mount Hood CC), hit .714 (10-for-14) to lead New Mexico State to a 2-1-1 record versus Nevada last week. Shaver was errorless in the outfield for NM State and he led the team at the plate with a consistent bat as he went 10-for-14 without a strikeout. Shaver posted two doubles, a triple, three RBI and six runs. He recorded a .765 on-base percentage against Nevada and added two walks. He was also hit by a pitch.
136. Drew Robinson:
4-20 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/20/1431880/casing-the-states-nevada#storyjump: - , OF, Silverado HS, Las Vegas - Wheras Brian Pointer offers solid upside as a complement to Kris Bryant in the Nevada class, Robinson might have the better potential between the two outfielders. However, Robinson has a longer way to go to reach that potential, and most scouts are resigned to the idea that he will have to go to college to find that potential. At the plate, he currently features a raw approach from the left side, though he doesn't try to do too much with his at-bats when he's concentrating. He goes gap-to-gap fairly well, and he could turn into a solid-average hitter with repetitions. His power is below-average, and that shouldn't be part of his game, but he's not overly weak, either, and he could run into his fair share of home runs once he fills out. He's pretty wiry, though not extremely projectable, so that's why the power potential isn't really there. He's a solid-average to above-average runner, and that goes along well with a solid-average arm in the outfield. He profiles as more of a 'tweener, not having quite enough range to stick in center field, but not having enough bat to stick in a corner. He could handle center field just fine in college, as he's committed to Nebraska, but he looks more like a right fielder as he fills out. The potential is here for a solid pro outfielder, but it may be three more years before we see him attempt pro ball. Projected Draft Range: 10th-25th Round
137. Tyler Baisley:
4-19 from: http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/19/southland-baseball-players-of-the-week-9 - Northwestern State right fielder Tyler Baisley has been named the Southland Conference Hitter of the Week. Baisley, who hit safely in all four games for the week, was 9-for-16 (.588) with 10 RBI and five runs scored. The senior from Gilbert, Ariz. (Greenway), knocked in a career-high five runs in the second game of Saturday’s doubleheader against UTSA, when he went 4-for-4 with two home runs, a double and two runs scored. In the first game of the doubleheader, he had one hit but it scored the winning run as the Demons rallied from a 5-3, ninth-inning deficit to win 6-5. Baisley started out the week with a 2-for-3 game with four RBI in a 17-5 win at Jackson State. He had two hits and scored two runs in Friday’s win. Baisley also stole two bases in two attempts last week.
138. Trevor Kirk:
4-20 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/20/1431880/casing-the-states-nevada#storyjump: - OF, CC of Southern Nevada - I'm being fairly kind in placing Kirk here, as his development has stalled a little bit in conjunction with Bryce Harper joining the team. Kirk has had an excellent career at CSN, though, and he has followed up an excellent freshman season that ended with a late-round pick by the Brewers with a solid sophomore campaign. Kirk isn't what most would consider toolsy enough to be a high-round draft pick as an outfielder. He features a solid approach at the plate for a leadoff hitter, and even though he doesn't strike out too much now, his swing can get a little long, leading to worries about his ability to hit for average at the next level. He doesn't have much power, either, so his offensive game is fairly limited in its future potential. He does possess plus speed and solid-average range for center field, but he's not the surest fielder, and he's new to the outfield, so it has been a struggle to adjust since enrolling at CSN last year. His arm is solid-average, so there's hope that he can be made into a fourth outfielder with speed and defense. He hasn't played since April 9 due to an undisclosed injury, so that may play a factor in his draft stock if it turns out to be something serious. Projected Draft Range: 10th-20th Round
139. Mark Hudson
4-22-10 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/22/1435556/casing-the-states-texas-part-two - , OF, Sam Houston State - Hudson came to Sam Houston State from Alvin CC in the same state for his junior year, and he's turned out to be one of the better junior college transfers in all of Texas. He was a solid player at Alvin, but he was passed over in the draft last June completely. He proceeded to tear up the Texas Collegiate League, becoming the MVP, all while showing tools that scouts found attractive. A right-handed hitter, but left-handed thrower, Hudson has solid tools all around and doesn't have a single tool that gets graded below fringe-average. An above-average runner and above-average hitter, he profiles best as a solid number two hitter at the next level. Only a fringe-average power grade brings his offensive projection down. In the field, he displays a solid-average arm and average range in center field, though he looks like someone who might need to move to right field in the future if he bulks up any more. He hasn't played since an undisclosed injury about 10 days ago, so that will have to be monitored in the coming weeks. Projected Draft Range: 7th-12th Round
140. Brodie Greene
4-22-10 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/22/1435556/casing-the-states-texas-part-two - , OF, Texas A&M - Greene was a solid prospect a year ago, when as a junior he made himself into one of the better college second basemen available for the draft. However, he had a strong desire to return to school, and he ended up falling to the 37th round, where the Phillies took him as a late-round flier. He moved back to his more natural position, center field, this spring, but he had to move back to the infield out of necessity for his team, though he's been installed at shortstop instead of second base. A solid hitter with fringe-average power and plus speed, he's a good offensive threat, though some teams doubt his power more than others. He also doesn't really work the count as much as he should, and he's never going to walk enough to be a top of the order hitter. Defensively, he's not going to be a long-term shortstop, and even though he's more natural in center field, he might fit best moving back across the bag to second base. He has solid tools there, featuring above-average range and an average arm, and with repetitions, he could be an above-average defender there. His time at shortstop is only helping reinforce that feeling. Greene has really surprised some people this spring with his versatility, and he's been moving up draft boards consistently. Projected Draft Range: 6th-12th Round
141. Brian Pointer:
4-20 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/20/1431880/casing-the-states-nevada#storyjump: - OF, Galena HS, Reno - Pointer is the position player complement to Kris Bryant in the Nevada high school class, though he hasn't been making as much progress as hoped. Pointer doesn't offer the kind of ceiling that Bryant offers, though he does offer some nice polish at the plate for a prep bat. A lefty all the way, Pointer has solid raw hitting tools, featuring average potential with the bat and average potential for power. He's also a solid athlete with solid-average speed, making him an interesting prospect. He shows solid defensive tools for right field, showcasing a solid-average arm with above-average range for the position, and he should make for a good defensive outfielder after work on his routes. As you can tell, there isn't anything that really stands out about Pointer, and scouts have been waiting on him to show just a little more potential. At this point he profiles more as a solid college outfield prospect than a true pro prospect, and I suspect his Oregon State commitment will come into play in the range he's projected to be drafted. Projected Draft Range: 10th Round – Undrafted
142. Bo Felt:
4/26 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/26/big-ten-conference-players-of-the-week - BIG TEN BASEBALL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK - CO-PLAYERS OF THE WEEK - Bo Felt, Michigan State - Sr., OF, Sturgis, Mich./Sturgis - Felt earns his first career Player of the Week honor after leading the Spartans to a series win against Illinois over the weekend. The senior hit .545 and slugged 1.455 in the series, combining for an OPS of 2.000. He also scored five runs and drove in eight over three games, including a three-hit, four-RBI performance on Saturday in which he doubled and homered. Felt went deep in all three conference games last week, marking his first long balls of the season. He raised his batting average by 20 points and helped Michigan State climb back into a tie for first in the Big Ten standings.
143. Frankie Christian:
4-27 from: - http://baseballbeginnings.com/2010/04/27/frankie-christian-update/#more-5757 - I’ve had two recent looks at CF Frankie Christian. He’s always been an intriguing prospect for his athletic ability but the main question scouts and teams will likely ask is if he will hit enough in the coming years to bring the other tools into the game. My scouting instincts are that Christian is going to be a pro guy who can be signed, but not after high school. For me, Christian does show signs of offensive building blocks. I’ve seen examples of bat control, which for him means putting a ball in the air to right field to score a run. I also saw him lift a home run to left-center. On the flip side, I’ve also seen him struggle against left-handed curveballs, which could cause skeptical scouts to question his contact abilities.
144. Keith Kulbeth:
4-26 from: http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/04/26/southland-baseball-players-of-the-week-10/#more-25681 - Nicholls outfielder Keith Kulbeth has been named the Southland Conference Hitter of the Week. Kulbeth led the Colonels to a 3-1 week, including a series win over Sam Houston State, giving Nicholls its first consecutive conference series wins since 2001. A native of Opelousas, La., Kulbeth hit .353 on the week with a .765 slugging percentage and had 13 total bases. He had three extra base hits (1 2B, 2 HR) and went 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBI in a 6-3 win over New Orleans Wednesday. Kulbeth was 1-for-5 with a run scored on Friday and drove in the game-winning runs with a three-run shot in the top of the ninth in a 15-12 win over the Bearkats Saturday. Kulbeth drove in five runs against Sam Houston that day and was 1-for-2 with an RBI, two runs scored and a stolen base. Overall Kulbeth had eight RBI and scored six times.
145. Chris Duffy:
4-29 from: - http://www.baseballrumormill.com/2010/04/sleepers-for-the-2010-mlb-draft/#more - Sleepers For the 2010 MLB Draft - Chris Duffy, Central Florida, OF - A forgettable junior year saw Duffy return to school for his senior season where he is killing the ball - .442/.518/.836 with 16 home runs this spring. However, at 6'2" and 240lbs, there is concern about his mobility and defensive position.
146. Joey Leftridge:
4-29 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/29/1450107/casing-the-states-texas-part-three#storyjump - Joey Leftridge, OF, Howard JC - Leftridge is a rare hitting prospect in the Texas junior college ranks this year. In fact, Leftridge represented the only returning regular position player from the prize-winning 2009 Howard team that has graduated players such as Ole Miss' Miles Hamblin. Originally out of Duncanville High School in Dallas, Leftridge was a late-round draft pick of the Twins out of high school, and he didn't emerge at Howard until last spring after sitting out for a year. He was a 27th round pick of the Braves after an outstanding freshman year, but he returned to Howard. An outstanding athlete, Leftridge has spent most of the season getting on base and running, as well as playing outstanding defense in center field. At the plate, he doesn't have much usable pro power, but he's an above-average hitter with a good eye and plus to plus-plus speed. He hits leadoff now, and that's his projection as a pro, too. In the field, he's an above-average defender in center, but with a fringy arm, which will limit him to center or left in the pros. I expect him to handle center just fine. The drawback with Leftridge is that he's not projectable, as he's already 21, but the athleticism is good, and he's a candidate to be a higher pick than expected due to a weaker four-year college outfield class. Projected Draft Range: 4th-8th Round
147. Connor Rowe:
4-30 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/30/1451211/casing-the-states-texas-part-four#storyjump - OF Rowe is the center fielder for arguably the best college baseball team this year, and that has given him plenty of exposure to scouts. A second-year starter in center field, Rowe started out the year really slowly, and he has never really taken off. He lost his starting spot temporarily in the middle of the season, but he's reclaimed his center field job, though his production is still sub-par. Despite his struggles, Rowe does have some pro tools that he must leverage to have a good pro career as a fifth outfielder. At the plate, Rowe doesn't really profile to be a starter at the next level, as he fails to work the count and strikes out too much, and he doesn't have any power projection to speak of. However, he's a plus runner, and that's the style of hitting he takes on, slapping the ball gap to gap. Where Rowe shines is on defense. A true center fielder, he has plus range and an average arm, and he profiles to be able to play anywhere in the outfield with ease. Scouts know what Rowe's strengths and weaknesses are, and while they aren't high on his offensive ability, they see good value in his defensive assets, and he should be a fairly early pick because of it. Projected Draft Range: 8th-15th Round
148. Randall Thorpe:
4-30 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/30/1451211/casing-the-states-texas-part-four#storyjump - OF Thorpe has been well-known for quite awhile, as he was one of the top high school athletes available in the 2008 draft out of Heritage High School in Colleyville. He fell to the 29th round in the draft, when the White Sox took him as a mere formality. He headed to Texas A&M as a highly-touted recruit, but he got next to no playing time, and he transferred out after the season was done. He made the Aggies regret it immediately when he shined in the MINK League over the summer, and he was expected to be an impact player for San Jac this spring. However, after struggling a little with pitch recognition early on, he started falling a little on draft boards. He does have plus tools, featuring average or better tools in all give categories, and his best tool is plus speed. However, he went down with an injury a couple of weeks ago, and scouts wonder if he'll be available in June. If his speed is permanently impacted, it could be a bad sign for someone who struggles with the offensive side of his game from time to time. He's already 21 without a four-year college commitment, though, so a team might take a flier on him early on in day two. Projected Draft Range: 8th-20th Round
149. Tim Ferguson:
5-3 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/5/3/1455597/casing-the-states-mississippi#storyjump - Tim Ferguson, OF, Ole Miss - Ferguson is a converted middle infielder that has taken over center field for the Rebels this spring. Originally from Beaumont, Texas, Ferguson landed at Ole Miss due to a lack of interest from the better Texas schools, and he became a starter at shortstop halfway through his freshman year. Moved to second base for his sophomore year, he improved offensively, but it was obvious that he would be better off somewhere that let him get playing time more consistently, as he split time at second. After a disappointing summer on the Cape, he took over the Rebels' center field job, and he's done fairly well in the process. Though his upside is fairly limited, scouts see Ferguson's versatility and speed as a positive, and he could be a nice super utility player in the future. At the plate, he features a fringe-average hit tool, and he's improved his approach every year in the Ole Miss program. He strikes out too much, but he uses his speed fairly well. He's an above-average runner underway, and he's utilized that speed in center field this year. He's shown average range and an average arm, and he gets fairly good jumps most of the time. The question for him is whether he's going to have a dedicated position in pro ball. Projected Draft Range: 7th-12th Round
150. Randall Thorpe:
4-30 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/30/1451211/casing-the-states-texas-part-four#storyjump - OF Thorpe has been well-known for quite awhile, as he was one of the top high school athletes available in the 2008 draft out of Heritage High School in Colleyville. He fell to the 29th round in the draft, when the White Sox took him as a mere formality. He headed to Texas A&M as a highly-touted recruit, but he got next to no playing time, and he transferred out after the season was done. He made the Aggies regret it immediately when he shined in the MINK League over the summer, and he was expected to be an impact player for San Jac this spring. However, after struggling a little with pitch recognition early on, he started falling a little on draft boards. He does have plus tools, featuring average or better tools in all give categories, and his best tool is plus speed. However, he went down with an injury a couple of weeks ago, and scouts wonder if he'll be available in June. If his speed is permanently impacted, it could be a bad sign for someone who struggles with the offensive side of his game from time to time. He's already 21 without a four-year college commitment, though, so a team might take a flier on him early on in day two. Projected Draft Range: 8th-20th Round
151. Trent Mummey:
5-4 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/05/03/sec-players-of-the-week-11 - PLAYER OF THE WEEK - Trent Mummey • Auburn - Junior • OF • Pinson, Ala. - • Hit. .500 (7-for-14) with three home runs, six runs scored and six RBI as Auburn won a midweek game over Samford and won its series at No. 7 Arkansas in what is being regarded nationally as the biggest series victory of the weekend for any team, also vaulting Auburn back into the Top 25. Two of Mummey’s homeruns came in the Arkansas series where he also drove in three runs.
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