7/07 fr. www.projectprospect.com: Colon was very highly thought of out of high school, winning the MVP of the Aflac All-American game in 2007, but slid to the 10th round due to a mediocre spring and a strong commitment to the baseball factory in Fullerton. A full-time starter from the day he set foot on campus, Colon managed a .357/.442/.529 line in 2009 with 26 of his 91 hits going for extra bases. Colon shows great contact ability, only whiffing 8.0% of the time last year. Defensively he has a strong arm, solid range and outstanding instincts. Colon has always been seen as a very smart player who maximizes his abilities. While he doesn’t have the raw tools of a Grant Green or Brandon Crawford, Colon looks like a very solid bet to be an average big leaguer.
7/08: Colon became the new USA Baseball National Team (Collegiate) record holder for stolen bases in a game after he tallied four.
7-09: Fr. Keith Law/ www.espn.com : His speed is suspect and that's usually a red flag for playing shortstop, but Law insists that he can play the position at the pro level.
7-13: As of July 13, hitting .400 with a pair of homers and 27 RBIs.
7-14: hit a three-run home run in the fourth to lead Team USA to an 8-4 victory over Japan in game three of the 37th Annual USA vs. Japan Collegiate Championships. Also, hit a three-run HR.
7-20: homered in the first inning, scored on a wild pitch in the 8th, and doubled in the 9th, for Team USA win over Team Canada
7-21: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - 2nd Edition - July 21, 2009 by Scouting The Sports http://scoutingthesports.com/?p=3632 - 7. Pittsburgh Pirates - Christian Colon Shortstop Cal State Fullerton - -Even with a deeper class, Colon has all the tools to be the best infielder in 2010. Colon, who participated on the 2008 US National Team and led the team with 26 hits, has incredible bat control and great speed. He hits the ball to all fields and has shown some flashes of power that could develop once he begins to inch closer to the major league level. Colon is the best defender in this class, as he has incredible range, great hands, and a strong arm.
7-23: hit 2-run home run for Team USA in 10-2 win over Team Prince George Axemen
7-24: Colon broke both his tibia and fibula, on his left leg, during a game he played for Team USA against Team Canada. He is expected to be out from 2-3 months.
8-2: from 6-16 article www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com: Colon has special hands defensively and is one of the steadiest defenders in college baseball, making only 11 errors as a sophomore. Some scouts have expressed a desire to move him behind the plate as a pro because his range is fringy at the pro level, and he has a squat body and plenty of arm strength. But Colon has middle-infield actions that are increasingly hard to find at the college level, and handles the bat well, with enough power to demand respect.
8-24 fr. www.baseballamerica.com: - Amidst the kudos for Colon's intangibles and makeup, it's easy to overlook his talent, and his production. A second-team All-American as Cal State Fullerton's sophomore shortstop this spring, Colon ratcheted his game to another level this summer, hitting .362/.459/.617 and leading Team USA in slugging, home runs (five), RBIs (37), runs (31) and stolen bases (24 in 26 attempts). He also drew 11 walks and struck out a team-low six times despite registering a team-high 94 at-bats. For his impressive offensive production—and, yes, for his valuable leadership—Colon is Baseball America's Summer Player of the Year…
8-24 fr. www.baseballamerica.com: - But Colon's summer was cut short in Team USA's penultimate game against Canada. Colon was covering second base on a bunt to third, and he received the throw in plenty of time to get the out and fire a relay to first. But the runner slid hard and late, colliding with Colon's shin. Colon suffered breaks in his fibia and tibia, forcing him to miss the title game of the World Baseball Challenge two days later. Both breaks were clean, and Colon was already walking around 15 days after the surgery, albeit with a limp. He is expected to make a full recovery well before the start of the 2010 season, but he will likely miss all of fall ball.
9-16: From www.baseballamrica.com : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 6. Christian Colon, ss Cal State Fullerton
9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: Mock Draft Version 1 – #2 overall pick - Christian Colon, SS - Cal State Fullerton
9-28: From http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: - Mock Draft Version 2 - #3 pick overall - Christian Colon, SS - Cal State Fullerton - Baltimore seems to love Cal State Fullerton infielders. On top of this Baltimore is stacked with quality pitching, outfielders, and their catcher Matt Wieters. They lack some infield depth and this is great selection to nail down the middle of the Orioles infield in the future.
10-5 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: 4. Kansas City Royals – Christian Colon, SS, Cal State Fullerton- (1st SS picked in draft) – Colon may have broken his leg at the end of Team USA’s season, but that was only after he had established himself as the best all-around position player in the 2010 college class. He’s a good fielder with good instincts, a good hitter, and there’s really nothing he’s bad at. People will whine about his lack of dazzling tools, but Colon’s got a solid toolset with a solid skillset with great makeup, and there’s no reason to think he can’t be an above-average Major League shortstop in relatively short order. Assuming he recovers fully from the broken leg, he’s a top ten pick with a good spring.
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – #35 – Christian Colon – 2nd SS on list
10-6 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com: - SS Christian Colon - I guess my lack of love for his game comes from me severely underrating the value of a league average big league shortstop (a rookie mistake on my part, I admit) and also being less than impressed when seemingly every scouting report about Colon begins and ends with talk about his personality, leadership, and the way he makes the most of his average at best tools. No doubt Colon’s makeup is totally off the charts and his defensive chops make him a slam dunk to stick at short professionally, but I tend to focus more on the “average at best tools” part of that discussion than the “personality” and “leadership.” I’m both ready and willing to convinced I’m totally wrong on Colon, but that’s where things stand now. For what it’s worth, I’ve only seen Colon play once since watching him in person in high school, so maybe I’m judging him unfairly based on my limited and outdated memory of his skills. Also, for what it’s worth, I have a scouting buddy who has seen Colon play a ton from his junior year of high school until this past summer and he absolutely loves everything about Colon’s game.
10-8 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Christian Colon, Cal State Fullerton - A broken leg won’t keep Colon down, and I think he’ll come back quite effectively for the spring season. He doesn’t really have any plus-plus tools, but he’s a great all-around player and the best middle infield prospect available in the 2010 class. Projected draft slot: Early-first to mid-first round.
10-13 from www.mymlbdraft.com: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - #8 – (1st SS picked) - Christian Colon
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: - 6- SS Christian Colon (1st SS on list)
11-3 from www.mlbresource.com: 3rd Mock draft – #6 - Christian Colon, SS - Cal State Fullerton - Arizona will jump all over Colon at this spot. With Stephen Drew eligible for free agency in a few years, Colon will be the perfect replacement. (1st SS on list)
11-7-9 from www.mlbresource.com: - Christian Colon, SS Cal State Fullerton - Colon is a spark plug that has a plus bat and outstanding baseball instincts. He is a spark plug type player.
11-18 from www.macksmets.blogspot.com: - SS Christian Colon – yes, he did break his leg a few months ago, but no every day player has the kind of ceiling Colon has and he’s a shortstop to boot. (1st SS on list)
11-20 from www.draftamerica.com: - 3. Baltimore -- Christian Colon, SS, Cal St. Fullerton. BAL has gone with arms the past two years with their first pick, but Colon (provided healthy) could be a slot signing that addresses a glaring organizational weakness while providing security by way of excellent plate discipline and defense.
11-23 from www.deepleagues.com: - #3 - Baltimore Orioles Cristian Colon (SS, Cal St. Fullerton) (1st SS on list)
12-15 from www.5tooltalk.com: Mock Draft – 1st round: - 4 Royals Christian Colon SS NCAA
1-7-9: Morisato's 2010 MLB Mock Draft - Version 1.0 - 3rd Overall – The Baltimore Orioles
Christian Colon (SS), Cal State Fullerton - Possibly the best college positional players, Colon had an excellent season for the Titans, hitting .357/.438/.529 with 8 homers in 62 games. Colon doesn’t have standout tools but he’s a solid hitter with a good eye and plate discipline. He should draw more than his share of walks and he makes solid contact with the ball. He has average power and speed for the position. Colon is a fundamentally sound fielder with solid instincts and range. There is still some concern that he will probably be a second baseman in the end, but he has the toolset to stay at short. Overall, Colon will probably go third to the Orioles, who could use a shortstop of the future, or a potential successor from Brian Roberts at second. Either way, he would join a promising young core for the O’s. In the event they choose to go with the best overall talent, James Taillon would also go here.
2010 MLB DRAFT MOCK DRAFT- 12/31/09 – www.jjscouting.com - 3. Baltimore Orioles- Christian Colon, SS, Cal State Fullerton - Colon is the best position player in the draft. The Orioles are pitching heavy, and Colon would be a nice fit in the system. He does everything well, and the Orioles are in need of an impact position player in the system.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - 3 Baltimore Christian Colon SS Cal-State Fullerton 6'0" 185 R,R
1-15-0 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - #11 Toronto Blue Jays: SS Christian Colon – Cal State Fullerton - I’m not quite stubborn/bold enough to put Colon where I really think he’ll wind up in June, so I’ll defer to the experts and keep Colon in the first half of the first round for now. I guess that sort of makes Colon the Drew Pomeranz of position player prospects, huh? Everything I said a few months ago holds up today:
I guess my lack of love for his game comes from me severely underrating the value of a league average big league shortstop (a rookie mistake on my part, I admit) and also being less than impressed when seemingly every scouting report about Colon begins and ends with talk about his personality, leadership, and the way he makes the most of his average at best tools. No doubt Colon’s makeup is totally off the charts and his defensive chops make him a slam dunk to stick at short professionally, but I tend to focus more on the “average at best tools” part of that discussion than the “personality” and “leadership.” I’m both ready and willing to convinced I’m totally wrong on Colon, but that’s where things stand now. For what it’s worth, I’ve only seen Colon play once since watching him in person in high school, so maybe I’m judging him unfairly based on my limited and outdated memory of his skills. Also, for what it’s worth, I have a scouting buddy who has seen Colon play a ton from his junior year of high school until this past summer and he absolutely loves everything about Colon’s game.
I’m totally nuts for maybe possibly almost thinking Gary Brown, Colon’s teammate at Fullerton, is the better pro prospect, right? Brown’s gigantic edge in speed and added pop might just make up for Colon’s clear advantage in both overall defense upside and contact skills, but your mileage might vary.
1-15-9 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - 2. Pittsburgh Pirates – Christian Colon, SS, Cal State Fullerton – For all the talk of Jameson Taillon and Anthony Ranaudo, I see the Pirates sticking to their 2009 script, when there wasn’t a clear-cut best player available to them at their selection. All things being equal, they’ll choose the hitter, and Colon’s the best on the board here. There’s a method to their madness, as they were able to add quality arms in Victor Black, Brooks Pounders, Zack Dodson, Zack Von Rosenberg, Trent Stevenson, Colton Cain, and Jeff Inman, while still picking Tony Sanchez a year ago. Previously: #4.
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.
• Cal State Fullerton's Christian Colon went 0-for-4, struggling against Pepperdine's Matt Bywater who threw a complete game shutout with 10 Ks, two walks and four hits. Churchill feels that Bywater's questionable velocity does not make him a first-day draft consideration.
3-10-10 from http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/baseball/news?slug=kr-powerrankings031010&prov=yhoo&type=lgns - Power Rankings – In the middle infield, Cal State Fullerton’s Christian Colon dropped from the top spot to completely out of the rankings after starting the season on an incredibly bad note at the plate. Florida State’s Stephen Cardullo, who is red-hot right now, moved to the No. 1 spot in the latest rankings.
3-23 from: - http://web.goldenspikesaward.com/index.html?page=news_archive&article_id=61 - Heading into last weekend's series at Washington, Colon was hitting .234/.347/.328 with one home run and three RBIs in 16 games. Colon found himself in a big way in Fullerton's three-game sweep of the Huskies. On Friday, he went 4-for-5 with three home runs and five RBIs, going deep to left field, center and right. His third homer, a two-run shot in the eighth, provided the eventual winning runs in Fullerton's 9-7 victory. Colon homered again Saturday and drew three walks, two of them intentional. He finished the weekend 8-for-13 with seven RBIs, a double and two stolen bases. All of a sudden, his season line looks a whole lot better: .299/.413/.545 with five homers and 10 RBIs
5-3 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com - A third choice is Cal State Fullerton shortstop Christian Colon. Unlike with Machado, you really feel that Colon is going to be a second baseman by the time he reaches the Majors, but you believe he'll hit and will provide badly-needed leadership and accountability coming out of a rigid Fullerton program. You think he'll only needed a year and a half in the minors, and you would put him in the Arizona Fall League after signing him in August. While you don't necessarily think his tools are worth of such a high pick, you think his floor is quite high, and he'll at least give you league-average production offensively at second with above-average defense. Scott Boras is also Colon's adviser, and he says that Colon will sign for $4 million, though you think you can split the difference with slot money at $3.75 million. He might be able to sign fairly quickly as a result, which you deem important, as Tony Sanchez proved last year. No Major League contract will be needed.
9-16: From www.baseballamerica.com : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 4. Manny Machado, ss Brito HS, Miami
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. Tony Wolters and Manny Machado notched three hits apiece.
9/27 from: http://web.usabaseball.com: Bryce Harper and Manny Machado each drove in two runs in a seven-run third inning to lead the USA Baseball 18U National Team to a 14-0 run-rule shutout against Argentina Saturday in Day 2 of the COPABE "AAA" Pan American Championships at Daniel Canonico Stadium.
9-28: From http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: - Mock Draft Version 2 - #18 pick overall - Manny Machado, SS - Brito Miami Private HS (FL) - It has been a long time since the Twins have taken an infielder this high in the draft but this could be the year. It almost seems like a yearly need for the Twins to have a main stay at SS and hopefully Machado can be this guy. If Colon gets here, which is unlikely the Twins could not pass on him.
9-29: From: http://www.baseballrumormill.com – Manny Machado's performance from the 18-and-under trials had a few scouts worried about how his defense would project professionally. While the defensive questions may not have been answered, Machado hit extremely well in the USA's first three games, at least temporarily making scouts forget about possible defensive deficiencies. Against Aruba in the opener, Machado was 3 for 4 with a HR, 2RBI and three runs scored in Team USA's 13-3 win. He followed up that performance with 3 RBI in the USA's 14-0 blanking of Argentina.
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.
10-3 from www.baseballrumormill.com: - Manny Machado Dominates 18-And-Under Tournament - The 18-and-under Team USA squad dominated pool play this week at the 2009 COPABE Pan Am "AAA" Championships. After going 3-0 in their first three games this past weekend, Team USA followed those games up with three more wins this week. On Monday Team USA defeated Columbia 19-0, beat Cuba 9-5 on Wednesday and finished up pool play with a 6-3 win over Venezuela on Thursday. While AJ Vanegas and Jameson Taillon led the way with solid pitching performances, it was Manny Machado who stole the show for Team USA. Machado performed well in Team USA's opening games this weekend and finished pool play with an impressive stat line: 435/536/739 with two home runs, nine RBI and nine runs scored in six games. If there are still concerns about Machado's defense, scouts are less likely to care as his bat continues to impress.
10-5 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: 21. Minnesota Twins – Manny Machado, SS, Brito Private HS (FL) – (2nd SS picked in draft) - Machado’s a polarizing player in the scouting ranks, as there’s an argument raging over whether Machado’s a true shortstop or not. It’s not hard to follow either side’s argument. On the plus side, Machado can turn in some plays that look truly middle infielder-esque numerous times over the course of the game. On the minus side, he can sometimes look stiff and show minus hands. In addition, the first thing you notice about him when you watch him is how big he looks for the shortstop position. Not everyone can be Cal Ripken and handle shortstop in the bigs at that size. I’m not putting down his athleticism. It’s solid. So is the arm. But with a Yunel Escobar-like bat wrap and overall questions about his bat, the defense is what’s going to determine his draft slot.
10-8 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Manny Machado, Brito Private HS (FL) - Machado’s a big kid for a shortstop, but he’s athletic and shows flashes of being a good defender. He has a bat wrap, but he’s actually hit the ball really well, especially with Team USA, where he was the best hitter on the 18U team. Projected draft position: Mid-first to early-second round.
10-13 from www.mymlbdraft.com: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - #12 – (2nd SS picked) – Manny Machado
10-24 from www.baseballrumormll.com: - top 10 prospects: - 8. Manny Machado, SS (only SS on list), Brito Miami Private HS, FL: Before his play with Team USA at the COPABE "AAA" Pan American Championships, some scouts were concerned about Machado's defense. While Machado's defense was unremarkable during play, this bat was spectacular. In pool play, Machado hit 435/536/739 with two home runs, nine RBI and nine runs scored in six games.
11-2 from www.thehardballtimes.com: - Manny Machado, SS, 2010, Hialeah, Fla., Royals Baseball Club - I bet he doesn’t get past the first round come June. Machado has a big (6-foot-3), athletic frame with plenty of filling out left. His actions at shortstop were graceful and smooth, and he seemed to have plenty of arm. The exciting thing about Machado is his power potential. His swing was a little long, and he did hack a bit. But he was right on 90-plus mph fastballs, and generates a lot of loft with his long arms and aggressive cuts. If there’s one thing that will get teams excited, it’s a combination of power potential and athleticism at a key position. Check all three boxes for Machado. I am a little concerned, however, about his ability to hit for average. He seems to be a fastball-only hitter right now (a great fastball hitter, but still…), and while his long arms generate power, they also generate a long swing.
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: - 16- SS Manny Machado (2nd SS on list)
11-3 from www.mlbresource.com: 3rd Mock draft – #22 - - Manny Machado, SS - Brito Private (FL) - Machado provides a nice young infielder to an organization that just put their best infielder in the big leagues with Elvis Andrus. Machado can play both middle positions and gives the Rangers options in case Andrus becomes too pricey. (5th SS on list)
11-9-9 from www.examiner.com: - Top 15 High School Draft Prospects - 4. Manny Machado, ss
Brito HS, Miami
College Commitment: Florida International - A 6-foot-2, 180-pound shortstop with true major-league actions in the field, Machado makes consistent contact at the plate and should develop above-average power. (1st SS on list)
11-17 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - 21. Minnesota Twins- Manny Machado, INF, Brito Private HS(FL) - Machado has some questions on his bat, and if he can stay at shortstop. In both cases, I trust that he can stay at shortstop even if he is already 6'2. He takes good routes to the ball and is relatively smooth. He hits the ball hard, and can handle fastballs well. (2nd SS picked)
11-18 from www.macksmets.blogspot.com: - 7. SS Manny Machado – another of those stock rising guys, Machado will easily go in the first 15 picks. (2nd SS on list)
11-20 from www.draftamerica.com: - 27. Philadelphia -- Manny Machado, SS, Brito Private HS (FL). Philly leans towards projectable and toolsy, and Machado gets a check in both boxes. He could be off the board well before here if he continues to progress through the spring.
11-23 from www.deepleagues.com: - #18 - Seattle Mariners - Manny Machado (SS, Miami FLA) (2nd SS on list)
12-15 from www.5tooltalk.com: Mock Draft – 1st round: - 28 Dodgers Manny Machado SS High School
1-3 from www.perfectgame.com: - Top 2010 HS MIFs. Based on summer performance (PG Natl SC,TOS,Area Code, East Pro SC, Under Armour & AFLAC) and lots of discussions. - Manny Machado 6'2 -Lean frame- bottom half needs more development. Avg arm strength. 6.81-60 @PG Natl SC. 4.42 to first.Hits ball hard,gets good extenstion. Performed well at TOS and (offensively) for Team USA this fall. Glove is question mark at this point,he has smooth actions that help. All in all very solid. High Potential
2010 MLB DRAFT MOCK DRAFT- 12/31/09 – www.jjscouting.com - 21. Minnesota Twins- Manny Machado, INF, Brito Private HS(FL) - Machado has some questions on his bat, and if he can stay at shortstop. In both cases, I trust that he can stay at shortstop even if he is already 6'2. He takes good routes to the ball and is relatively smooth. He hits the ball hard, and can handle fastballs well.
1-7-9: Morisato's 2010 MLB Mock Draft - Version 1.0 - 12th Overall – The Cincinnati Reds - Manny Machado (SS), Florida High School - Regarded to be the best prep shortstop candidate in the draft, Machado is an athletic player should be able to remain at shortstop. He shows a strong arm, solid instincts, and average range, along with a tall and wiry build that also projects well for him to remain at shortstop. He shouldn’t lose too much range as he fills out. However, despite him shown the potential of being a plus defender, Machado can be sloppy, missing the routine play in favor of the spectacular one. His bat also inspires a lot of questions. From the video I’ve seen on him, Machado has a bat wrap at the beginning of his swing, which tends to lengthen his swing a bit. However, he also shows good bat speed, and has shown the ability to hit with Team USA. Overall, Machado will have teams that will have varying degrees of how they rate him. I think he’s going to go here.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #25 St. Louis Manny Machado SS Brito Miami Private, Fl. 6'2" 180 R,R
1-15-0 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 11. Toronto Blue Jays – Manny Machado, SS, Brito HS (FL) – Read the above statements about regime change, then copy and paste them here. The Jays will look for much more high-ceiling talent to help restock a system that’s been suffering from too many years of safe picks and, most recently, unsigned ones. Machado has his question marks, but with a bat that’s gained a little more attention over the fall and some hope of a long-term stay at shortstop, he’s climbed up boards. Previously: #21.
4-2: - Scouting Report - Hitting ability: Machado is swinging the bat very well, with authority. He led Team USA in hitting last summer. Power: He has the chance to have good power. Running speed: He's run well in the past, though he might slow down as he matures. Base running: He's fine on the basepaths. Arm strength: He's got plenty of arm for his position. Fielding: He makes the plays he can get to. Range: This is the question, whether he'll have enough range to stay at shortstop as he gets bigger and stronger. - http://www.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?topic_id=8080130&content_id=7243401
4-20 from: http://www.baseballrumormill.com - Manny Machado is going to get the Alex Rodriguez comparison - tall, athletic, right-handed-hitting Latino shortstop from a Miami-area high school - but A-Rod Lite is more apt, since he's not preternaturally gifted as a hitter as A-Rod was. Machado can hit with strong, quick wrists, good rotation, and excellent extension through his swing. He has a 70 (out of 80) arm and good hands at shortstop although there's some sentiment that he'll outgrow the position. He's going to fill out significantly over the next 10 years, but he has the tools to be a plus defender at shortstop
4-26 from: - http://www.baseballrumormill.com/2010/04/position-changes-lurk-for-some-draft-prospects/#more - Brito HS - Current position: SS. Projected professional position: SS or 3B - While many scouts, including espn.com's Keith Law, feel that Machado has the skills to play shortstop professionally, there are some that worry about his size (6'2", 180 lbs) and future projection. If he did become too big to play shortstop, third base seems likely.
5-1 from: - http://projectprospect.com/article/2010/04/28/lincolns-2010-draft-board - Manny Machado a shortstop from Brito High School in Florida makes his first appearance on the board, debuting at No. 5. I held off ranking Machado in the first iteration of my draft board since there were some rumblings about Machado not being a shortstop long-term. Those fears seem to have abated as Machado has dazzled scouts defensively all spring. Some felt he might be a third baseman since his speed is only a tick above average and his lower half is a little thicker than the average 6-foot-2, 180 pound prep shortstop. But Machado has shown soft hands and terrific instincts to go along with a throwing arm that’s as good as any position players in this draft. Offensively, Machado should hit very well for a shortstop, as he shows decent hitting ability and above-average power potential. Machado has as much helium as anyone in the draft process right now and could be the second position player off the board.
5-1 from: - http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452668/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - Machado has emerged as the top overall player in the high school class, growing from 6-2, 180 to 6-3, 190 over the last 12 months. Scouts are impressed with his glove and he has the range and hands to be a top-flight defensive shortstop. His arm is okay but is very accurate and has a quick release, so it shouldn't be a problem at higher levels. There were some questions about his bat pre-season, but he's shown much better offensive potential this year with a swing that should provide a high batting average with at least decent power as he matures. Pure running speed is his only average tool. Signed with Florida International University, Machado is now aligned with Scott Boras and may be a difficult sign. On talent alone, he would fit perfectly with the Orioles at number three or the Royals at number four.
5-3 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com - The second player you've been interested in is Florida prep shortstop Manny Machado. Like the Nationals, you believe that Machado has distanced himself from the prep hitting field, and you are also looking for a franchise shortstop to make it to the Majors in the timeframe that the team is going to be competitive, which is considered slightly farther away than the Nationals in your estimation. You believe Machado will need three full years in the minor leagues, and he's going to struggle for the first two years in the Majors. However, you believe that he'll stick at shortstop in the long-term, even as he fills out. You love his makeup, and you fully believe he'll fit well in your player development system. As was the case with the Nationals, Scott Boras tells you it will take $8 million to sign Machado, though that's above where you think he'll actually sign. You think you can sign him for between $5 and 6 million, and a Major League contract won't be needed. This pick offers you the most upside offensively of your choices.
From: www.baseballfactory.com - Cabrera is a physically mature young man with two-way talent. In the infield he shows a quick first step, sure hands and a plus arm. At the plate, he uses strong wrists and hands to generate plus bat speed with pull side power. Although he is more appealing as a position player prospect at this time, Cabrera also throws a low 90s fastball on the mound. He attended a Team One Preview in Floria and played in the Under Armour Fall Tournament as a member of the All-American Prospects – a UA Franchise Team. He has verbally committed to the University of Miami.
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com: looks great in a uniform as well, ball off the wood jumps when he makes solid contact, pulls off the ball some, runs well underway, solid ave at the worst, also showed ML arm strength.
8-6: From www.baseballamerica.com: - Cabrera has a pro body and all the tools you look for in a young player. At the plate, he has strong wrists and forearms that generate good bat speed and produce hard line drives. The Miami recruit runs a 6.6-second 60-yard dash with fluid actions and above-average arm strength in the field and on the mound, where he touches 92 mph.
8-17 from www.baseballamerica.com re: AFLAC games - The home run derby was won by Yordy Cabrera (Lakeland, Fla., HS). Cabrera is an older, more mature high schooler whose uppercut, pull-oriented swing enables him to drive the ball deep to left center. He'll be 20 years old a few months after his graduation in 2010.
8-19: Jeff Sullivan from the AFLAC Games: - A physically imposing high schooler, Cabrera is listed at 6’4, 190 pounds. His body looks pro ready already, although he is much older than the other players at the event. Cabrera showed off his power all week long, including hitting eight homers during the first round of the home run derby at the University of San Diego, then hitting five out at PETCO. He hit some monster shots at USD and he makes it look easy. He was dead pull all week and it will be interesting to see how he handles the outside pitch, and if he is able to go the other way with it. He has good bloodlines, as his father is a coach in the Detroit Tigers system.
9-7: From www.perfectgame.com on the AFLAC games: what can you say about this young man? He's much older than the competition he's played against, he should dominate them and the best position for him is probably the outfield corner. Butchered many ground balls in the attempts I saw. On the hill he's just ok, he doesn't repeat velocity/delivery extension consistent enough. Upper cut stroke will get eaten up in pro ball and expose him. Lots of room to get better, but basically, what you see now is what you will get later, in my opinion.
9-5: from Jonathan Mayo’s 8-26 article on www.minors.mlbblogs.com: - Yordy Cabrera showed good power and a nice swing -- it reminded some of Andruw Jones's finish -- though since he's a little older (he'll be 19 1/2 come next year's Draft), he's tougher to evaluate.
9-16: From www.baseballamerica.com : - High School Top 25 draft prospects: 12. Yordy Cabrera, ss/rhp Lakeland (Fla.) HS
9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: Mock Draft Version 1 – #6 overall pick - Yordy Cabrera, SS - Lakeland HS (FL)
9-28: From http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: - Mock Draft Version 2 - #6 pick overall - Yordy Cabrera, SS - Lakeland HS (FL) - The Mets have a ton of needs for their farm system at the moment. Fernando Martinez is the crown jewel and 2010 will be his season. I would love to see the Mets go into a full rebuild mode (not sure how that would go over in New York but I think it is needed). The Mets do have a strong core of players in David Wright, Johan Santana, and Carlos Beltran. However, their is not much to surround them unless Jose Reyes goes back to form and Martinez ends up being the real deal. The Mets to me should pattern their plan after Boston's. Build a farm system starting with trades for multiple prospects for guys like Santana or even Wright and then draft good young talent. The Mets then have the financial resources to surround these players with some big money free agents. Right now I think the Mets need to take one step back to move two steps forward. Yordy Cabrera would be a perfect fit as he brings a young athletic infielder who can play all over. He hits for power and would be a great start to a new farm system. He has committed to play college ball at the University of Miami.
10-5 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: 25. St. Louis Cardinals – Yordy Cabrera, SS, Lakeland HS (FL) – (4th SS picked in draft) - Remember what I said about Machado being big? Cabrera’s bigger. That’s why many scouts think Cabrera’s eventually going to outgrow shortstop, where he shows consistently good actions and range. He’s a bit of a hacker at the plate, but he’s got plus tools there, too. He’s fast, too, with a plus arm, so he’s what you might consider a true five-tool player in a relatively weak class for tools. If Cabrera turns out a great senior year, he could be compared favorably to Jio Mier of the Astros, and I see him being a solid first-round pick.
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – 11th on list – IF/OF Yorby Cabrera
10-6 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com: - INF/OF/RHP Yordy Cabrera - Something about those draft eligible sophomores always intrigues me. I haven’t talked to many people who think Cabrera will stick at shortstop professionally, but he’s so darn talented across the board that I’d be willing to gamble on him being productive wherever he winds up on the diamond.
10-8 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com – Yordy Cabrera, Lakeland HS (FL) Florida always seems to be brimming with prep shortstops, and this year is no different. Some scouts prefer Cabrera to Machado, though Cabrera’s bigger and might be a long-term third baseman. He needs to work on his plate discipline and pitch recognition skills, as he might become the next Miguel Tejada in those areas at the plate without major work. Projected draft position: Late-first to mid-second round.
10-13 from www.mymlbdraft.com: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - #27 – (4th SS picked) - Yordy Cabrera
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: - 20- SS Yordy Cabrera (3rd SS on list)
11-3 from www.mlbresource.com: 3rd Mock draft – #21 - Yordy Cabrera, SS - Lakeland (FL) - I see Minnesota taking one of three players in this selection with the others being Manny Machado and Derek Dietrich. Cabrera to me right now has more upside and a chance to be a power hitting shortstop or third basemen in the big leagues. (4th SS on list)
11-9-9 from www.examiner.com: - Top 15 High School Draft Prospects - 12. Yordy Cabrera, ss/rhp
Lakeland (Fla.) HS
College Commitment: Miami - A strong and athletic 6-foot-4, 190-pounder, Cabrera offers power potential, good arm strength and sound defensive actions. (3rd SS on list)
11-17 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - 3. Baltimore Orioles- Christian Colon, SS, Cal State Fullerton - Colon is the best position player in the draft. The Orioles are pitching heavy, and Colon would be a nice fit in the system. He does everything well, and the Orioles are in need of an impact position player in the system. (1st SS picked)
11-17 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - 27.Philadelphia Phillies- Yordy Cabrera, SS, Lakeland HS(FL) - One of the best power displays I've seen from a HS player. During the week of the AFLAC game Cabrera put on a show in the first round at the University of San Diego. He is big, so he might outgrow SS, but either way, his bat is special. (3rd SS picked)
11-18 from www.macksmets.blogspot.com: - 25. SS Yorby Cabrera – many of us had him much higher six months ago, but he’s still a first rounder in a weak draft. (4th SS on list)
11-20 from www.draftamerica.com: - 17. Tampa Bay -- Yordy Cabrera, SS/RHP, Lakeland HS (FL). Cabrera has soft hands and the footwork to play up the middle, though he may grow out of the six-spot and into the hot corner -- his bat should play, regardless.
11-23 from www.deepleagues.com: - #12 - Cincinnati Reds Yordy Cabrera (3B, Lakeland, FL) (1st 3B on list)
12-15 from www.5tooltalk.com: Mock Draft – 1st round: - 18 Mariners Yordy Cabrera SS High School
1-3 from www.perfectgame.com: - Top 2010 HS MIFs. Based on summer performance (PG Natl SC,TOS,Area Code, East Pro SC, Under Armour & AFLAC) and lots of discussions. - Yordy Cabrera6'4 - Aflac and Under Armour All American. The oldest of all the hs mifs(19 this spring)Has bloodlines and size to play in the bigs right now.Won HR Derby at Aflac and hit monster shot at Under Armour game.. Plus bat speed-quick to the ball-big power potential.Good arm strength (also top P prospect) in the inf. Quick with a 6.60 60 /4.40 to first base. solid D actions and great overall tools. Fun to watch.
1-15-0 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 17. Tampa Bay Rays – Yordy Cabrera, SS, Lakeland HS (FL) – I’m listing Cabrera as a shortstop here, but my speculation is that the Rays would pick Cabrera as a right fielder in this situation. I think they have third base covered, and Cabrera’s not going to stick at short. Come to think of it, I don’t know why I continue to call him a shortstop. Anyway, Cabrera’s bat consistently draws raves, and he’s older than any of his prep counterparts, so the though process is that he’s a bit advanced compared to more risky prep bats available here. This is a good fit for the nearby Rays, who have another first-round pick after this. Previously: #25.
1-15-9 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - #20 Boston Red Sox: SS Yordy Cabrera – Lakeland HS (FL) - Is it too late to change this pick to Rob Brantly? I really wanted to include him in the mock so I could make my Rob Brantly = Derek Norris comp that I’ve been so eagerly waiting to unveil. Oh well. I’ve also heard a completely unsubstantiated rumor that links Boston to Virginia outfielder Jarrett Parker, a player with scouting reports that sort of remind me of a poor man’s Ryan Westmoreland. Justin O’Conner could also be a name that makes sense in this spot. I wouldn’t have matched the Red Sox up with Rey Fuentes last year, so I’m not even sure I’m qualified to comment on this pick any furt…
Anyway, let’s talk Yordy. I have to admit that while he isn’t one of my favorite prep bats in this class, I’d be happy to see my favorite team draft Yordy if given the chance. Why? Come on! Yordy! Who among us could possibly resist rooting for a Yordy? It’s impossible question to answer because nobody has ever even tried. I’m powerless to not root for a Yordy. I’d never buy a jersey of a player from a team I didn’t root for (that’s a lie…I’d never buy a jersey period, regardless of team), but I’d definitely consider getting a snazzy Yordy! t-shirt if/when he makes it to the show AND successfully petitions MLB to allow him to just put Yordy on the back of his jersey.
1-7-9: Morisato's 2010 MLB Mock Draft - Version 1.0 - 20th Overall – The Boston Red Sox (Compensation For Billy Wagner) - Yordy Cabrera (SS), Florida High School
Cabrera is mentioned with Machado as the top prep shortstop in the 2009 draft class. At the moment, Cabrera shows the ability to play the position, as he shows solid speed and range for the position. He also shows the ability to hit for above average power in the future, especially as he fills out. However, there are some concerns with Cabrera. Some feel that he may lose range and speed as he fills out, requiring a move to third base. He is a fairly large kid, but he has the skills and the arm to do well at third base. My concern is that he doesn’t have great plate discipline, as he’s a bit of a hacker. So strikeouts will likely be a problem as he faces more advanced pitching. All in all, Cabrera projects to be a power hitting third baseman, and he should take off once he improves his discipline and taps into his offensive abilities.
2010 MLB DRAFT MOCK DRAFT- 12/31/09 – www.jjscouting.com - 27. Philadelphia Phillies- Yordy Cabrera, SS, Lakeland HS(FL) - One of the best power displays I've seen from a HS player. During the week of the AFLAC game Cabrera put on a show in the first round at the University of San Diego. He is big, so he might outgrow SS, but either way, his bat is special.
1-1-9 update: - -Yordy Cabrera probably won’t be drafted with shortstop in mind for his long-term future. That probably doesn’t come as a shock to most people, but I’m finding less and less scouts that want to even give Cabrera a long look at the position, with third base or the outfield being the possible destinations. I like Cabrera’s chances at the hot corner.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #26 Colorado Yordy Cabrera SS Lakeland HS, Fl. 6'2" 195 R,R
5-1 from: - http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452668/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - Yordy Cabrera, SS-RHP, Lakeland High School, ,Lakeland, Florida - Blessed with all-around tools, Cabrera is a prospect as both hitter and pitcher, but is a bit older than most preps and turns 20 in October. He has good size at 6-3, 220 pounds, with strong power potential and decent enough speed. Opinions were previously mixed on his ability to stay at shortstop, but a decline in range this spring makes it very likely he'll shift to third base or outfield. As a result, his stock has dropped slightly, though he remains a candidate for the later part of the first round. A team with extra picks and a liking for raw tools such as the Angels could be interested, as well as the homestate Rays at slot 31. He has a University of Miami commitment but should be signable in the first two rounds.
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com: solid hitter with plus power potential, solid arm strength at least a 60 with good glove, range for SS however still a question, appears more like a power hitting 3b or 2b in pro ball, however he'll have to play his way out of being a SS early in pro ball.
9-24: From: http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: Mock Draft Version 1 – #23 overall pick - Derek Dietrich, SS - Georgia Tech
10-8 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Derek Dietrich, Georgia Tech - Dietrich is another guy that might be a third baseman, but his position for now is shortstop. He really struggled this summer on the Cape, and there’s a lot of doubt about both his bat and glove. He’s got an average hit tool with average raw power, but he strikes out a lot. He does run the count up, but he ends up striking out just too much. His glove isn’t that good, either, and in all likelihood he’s a third baseman. Projected draft position: Supplemental-first to late-second round.
11-3 from www.mlbresource.com: 3rd Mock draft – #27 - Derek Dietrich, SS - Georgia Tech - Dietrich provides Philadelphia with a quality middle infielder and I think Philly has to take Dietrich or one of the previous shortstops taken if they are available at this spot. This will add nice infield depth. (6th SS on list)
11-27 from www.collegebaseballblog.com: - named the 54th top college player for the 2010 season.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #47 Derek Dietrich SS Georgia Tech 6'1" 195 L,R
3-9: Stock down - Derek Dietrich, SS, Georgia Tech: Dietrich had a solid game on Saturday, but he is definitely losing steam in the scouting community. He’s trying to pull everything in the air, resulting in a lot of lazy flyballs, pop-ups, and swings and misses. He’s doing a very good job of not striking out, but it’s been frustrating to watch him do what he is not built to do. In batting practice, it’s almost like he’s been told not to hit the ball the other way. Everything is right of second base and in the air, and he’s not a power hitter. He’s next to last in slugging percentage out of the team’s starting lineup, and he needs to change his approach to suit that. He could be a high-average hitter if he sprayed the ball around the field, and he showed a little life in that regard on Saturday, with a hard-hit double to the left-center field gap. However, for the most part, Dietrich is slipping heavily, having really showed no improvement at shortstop and at the plate. He did do a short two-inning showcase at third base on Saturday, and he made a couple of excellent plays, so he did put that thought into some scouts’ minds, but there were only three scouts left at that point, so I’m not sure how much of an impression he made other than to get a couple of scouts to look at each other and smile.
3-31 from: http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/4/OpenTopic?q=Y&a=tpc&s=114295945&f=6174069131&m=4361060202&p=2 - Derek Dietrick, SS, Ga Tech, L/R solidly built, reminds me a lot of Jeff Kent except he's a lefty hitter, and this guy will be an offensive player in the bigs and probably will get there as quickly as, former Georgia Dawg, Gordon Beckham. Derek has a short stroke with power to left alley and line and can go the other way when he goes for that opportunity and he can drive the ball to RF and the power alley well. Runs ok, not a burner, 4.38 very close to average, said to have ran 6.9,60 in fall ball handheld. I gave him a 55 arm from SS, he has ok hands, range is better for the corner or 2b, will get dirty to make up for lack of quickness/speed. 6'1 205, he has the ability to hit 280 plus, 20 HR plus, drive in 80-90 runs in the 3 hole or 5 hole in the bigs. He did make an error on a hot shot he should have handled better but he stayed composed, which is a plus.
4-7 from: - http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Derek Dietrich, 3B, Georgia Tech: Though Dietrich is a current shortstop, I haven’t met a single scout in my experience at Georgia Tech games that wants to keep him at short. That doesn’t mean there isn’t one, but those who want to keep him at short aren’t part of the consensus. Dietrich has had a number of late-inning showcases at third in blowouts, and he’s shown the ability to be an above-average defender there, despite having slowed down considerably since high school. He still has a plus arm, and he’ll stick at third. At the plate, I was very critical of Dietrich early on, and that was echoed back to me in one particular conversation I had at the ballpark in early March. The scout didn’t like Dietrich’s swing or mindset at the plate, but it seems that has turned around the last month. After trying to pull everything for the first few weeks, Dietrich has calmed down and gone with his strengths, spraying the ball around the field and showing power to all fields. It’s hard to get pitches by him now with his new approach, and that has been refreshing to scouts that have been frustrated by a waste of natural talent for the better part of a year. He’s sneaking quickly up into the late first round conversation, and he’s more likely to land in the supplemental first round.
4-8 from: - http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/draft/draft-tracker/2010/269779.html - Three Up - Derek Dietrich, ss, Georgia Tech - Dietrich has been red hot lately. Over his last eight games, he's gone 14-for-37 with two doubles, a triple and five home runs. On the season, he's hitting .360/.474/.721 for Georgia Tech, the No. 2 team in the country. "Dietrich has really been about the same guy for the past two years, but this year he's really started to play well here of late," a National League area scout said. "His tools are now showing, where before you sat and thought, 'Man, I know it's in there, is he ever going to show it?' Well, now he's showing it."
4-26 from: - http://www.baseballrumormill.com/2010/04/position-changes-lurk-for-some-draft-prospects/#more - Georgia Tech - Current position: SS. Projected professional position: 3B/OF - Dietrich bat has been solid this spring, but the Georgia Tech shortstop has "no shot" to remain at shortstop. "He's going to hit some, there's not much doubt there," a scout said. "He's not without athleticism and defensive skill, he's just not suited for short, and probably not second either considering his size and lack of range; he didn't show well at second on the Cape. I think it's third or the outfield."
7/07 fr. www.projectprospect.com: SS’s Derek Dietrich of Georgia Tech and Rice’s Rick Hague have big time problems making contact, Hague is the only sure bet to stick at short, where he is very, VERY good….
7-23: went 3-4 for Team USA (HR) in 10-2 win against Prince George Axemen
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com: smooth fielders, 60 arm, 60 hitter with 50 power, runs ok, 4.28 to 1b, better on the way runner, could be first IF taken in 2010 draft. Playing for team USA also this summer.
9-16: From www.baseballamrica.com : - College Top 25 draft prospects: 10. Rick Hague, ss Rice
9-28: From http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: - Mock Draft Version 2 - #30 pick overall - Rick Hague, SS – Rice - It never seems like the Dodgers draft in the first round because they usually sign a big free agent but as of right now I think they take the SS out of Rice. Tall and lanky kid built in the Troy Tulowitzki/Bobby Crosby mold.
10-5 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 22. Texas Rangers – Rick Hague, SS, Rice – (3rd SS picked in draft) - Once again, the Rangers might go with a Texas product in Hague. This pick is protected against a player not signing, so maybe they pick a riskier player here. While I list Hague as a shortstop here, I wouldn’t be surprised to see someone take him as a third baseman after his plus-plus fielding run there with Team USA this summer. He’d be a solid-average, perhaps a bit better, defensive shortstop, though he might slow down a bit too much for the position quickly as a result of his great work ethic in gaining strength. His hitting should be solid, and while he doesn’t have above-average power and pitch recognition, he’s coachable and should improve continually in pro ball. He’s a late first-rounder in most scenarios at this point.
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – #34 – Rick Hague – 1st SS on list
10-8 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Rick Hague, Rice - Hague played third base for Team USA this summer, but he’s probably going to stick at shortstop in pro ball with some improvement. He’s a solid hitter with some work to do with his approach, but he’s got the natural talent to be an above-average hitter from the shortstop position. He might eventually have to move to third base, but he proved he’s an excellent fielder there this summer, so that’s not necessarily a horrible thing. Projected draft slot: Mid-first to early-second round.
10-13 from www.mymlbdraft.com: 2010 MLB Mock Draft - #20 – (3rd SS picked) – Rick Hague
10-21 from www.mlbresource.com: - Blake's Scouting Report - Hague has smooth hands at short for a big guy with outstanding range and a strong enough arm where I can see him staying at SS. I project him to be a plus defender with a chance to be ever better. He has the potential with some added strength to be 20-30 HR hitter in the big leagues but right now I see him as more of a gap-to-gap hitter with 10-15 a year. I could definitely see someone taking Hague earlier than Colon as some may project him more with his body size and power potential. Look for Hague to have his name called early on Day 1 of the draft.
11-3 from www.mlbresource.com: 3rd Mock draft – #20 - Rick Hague, SS - Rice - This draft has a ton of guys at the top that could have people wondering why they weren't drafted higher. Hague could very well be one of them. He is a big shortstop in the Troy Tulowitzki mold but hits left handed. Solid pick for Atlanta. (3rd SS on list)
11-20 from www.draftamerica.com: - 25. St. Louis -- Rick Hague, SS, Rice. The Cardinals get back to their comfort zone -- college kids in the first round -- and grab the talented Rice defender with good pop for the position.
12-15 from www.5tooltalk.com: Mock Draft – 1st round: - 29 Red Sox Rick Hague SS NCAA
1-7-9: Morisato's 2010 MLB Mock Draft - Version 1.0 - 30th Overall – The Los Angeles Angels - Rick Hague (SS), Rice - Hague has been a steady talent with the Owls for much of his season. He has hit over .300 over both of his years for the Owls, and has shown a good approach at the plate. He has a simple swing that allows him to make solid contact, and he shows the ability to draw a walk. His power projects to be merely average, though he should hit for plenty of doubles. The question is whether or not he’ll remain at shortstop. He has average range there, but there is a general consensus that he’ll have to move. He played third base for Team USA this summer and showed he’d be a solid fit there, but his bat fits more along the lines of second base. Either way, he should be a solid pick, likely in the sandwich round.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #19. - Detroit Rick Hague SS Rice 6'2" 190 R,R
1-15-0 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 24. San Francisco Giants – Rick Hague, SS, Rice – There’s little that Hague does badly, and the Giants are still looking for someone they can call on to fill their need at shortstop that’s been burning them recently. Drafting for need isn’t always bad, and if Hague has a good spring, he definitely deserves a draft slot this high. Some Rice players choose to use their university name as a bargaining chip, and a fair number actually return to school for a senior year, so that will have to be monitored, but this makes as much sense as any other pick. Previously: #22.
3-12 from http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/draft/draft-tracker/2010/269639.html - SS, Rice - Hague had a miserable weekend at the Houston College Classic in front of dozens of scouts, including multiple crosscheckers and scouting directors. He went 2-for-10 and made two errors (his fifth and sixth of the season), including a two-base error that nearly cost Rice the game against Texas Christian on March 7. "I'm sure he's pressing some," Rice head coach Wayne Graham said. "There was a lot of early publicity, and he hit so well with the USA team. We haven't put any pressure on him, because if you put too much pressure on players, they're going to get worse." He hit a home run on March 9, but is still hitting just .204/.259/.347 with 17 strikeouts over 49 at-bats this season. Some scouts have commented that Hague looked a little less athletic and a step slower than he has in the past. "He doesn't do anything on the field with any quickness and when he's forced to kind of speed his game up, it falls apart on him a little bit," an American League scout said. "The body isn't good. He's very thick through the lower half, he has slow feet, slow hands . . . at best, I see him as a backup second baseman at the pro level."
4-7 from: - http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Rick Hague, 3B, Rice: Yes, I know Hague is a shortstop right now. I’ve also been one of the vocal supporters for keeping him at shortstop. However, I think the time has come to admit defeat. Hague has looked a step slower this spring, if not more than a step, and he looks destined for third base. That’s strike one in this instance. Strike two is that along with his declining range, his once plus hands have been inconsistent so far, flashing plus at times, but also flashing below-average and turning into stone. After a great showing with Team USA at third base last summer, I thought he’d easily be a plus defender there in the long run, but he’s starting to make me think that he might just be an average third baseman with no versatility. This is all before we get to the hitting. Hague’s struggles at the plate have been well-documented. He still hasn’t learned how to recognize a breaking ball with any sort of consistency, and he’s been pressing at the plate, probably a result of the combination between the slump he’s been in and the increased pressure of being in his draft year. He’s starting to come around a little bit, and his current slash line of .275/.344/.404 is better than it once was, but he’s gone from possible first round pick to third round pick or lower. This couldn’t happen to a better guy, too, as Hague gets good grades for makeup and work ethic, so I only hope that he can turn it around and reestablish some draft value.
4-15 from: - http://pnrscouting.com/rankings_2010_midseason_shortstop.html - One of the disappointments this year has been Rick Hague, Junior, Rice University, who started off inconsistent and went through an excruciating stretch in March after the Houston College Classic (an event during which he was inconsistent and clearly taking his offensive struggles with him into the field). There is a lot to like in his skillset, and still potential for a solid bat to emerge attached to a capable pro shortstop. Over the first two weeks of April, Hague has looked very strong, slashing .355/.429/.677, going 11-31 with 2 HR, 4 2B, 4 BB and 5 SO. Perhaps more importantly, he has yet to make an error in 39 chances after committing 14 E in his first 153 opportunities this year. He drops four slots on this updated list and it would not be a shock to see him climb, fall or hold between now and the next update. Each player's preseason ranking on this list is in parenthesis, green indicating upward movement, red downward and blue neutral:
4-22-10 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/22/1435556/casing-the-states-texas-part-two - SS, Rice - The bad news came down yesterday that Hague is moving off shortstop for the Owls. That is just one more nail in the coffin for Hague, who has had one of the worst draft years for a potential first round pick in recent history that hasn't involved an injury. Hague has been a well-known prospect for a number of years, and he was a late-round pick of the Brewers coming out of high school in suburban Houston, though he could have gone much higher if he was signable. He started immediately at Rice, and after an excellent freshman campaign, he had a bit of a sophomore slump, and aside from an excellent stint with Team USA last summer, he's never really showed the potential that scouts have always believed he has. He has average raw power, and he flashed an above-average hit tool with wood, but he struggles mightily to control the strike zone, and he's one of the worst breaking ball hitters at the top of the class. In addition, his speed, which was once considered average, has fallen to below-average, and his range at shortstop deteriorated to become fringe-average from above-average early in his career. His above-average arm is still intact, but more rumblings about moving him to third base have been occurring. He still stands a chance to regain his draft stock, but it's looking more and more like he'll drop so low that he'll return to Rice for his senior year. Projected Draft Range: 4th-12th Round
8-17 from www.baseballamerica.com re: AFLAC games - Middle infielder Tony Wolters, who was named MVP of the game, is noticeably unimpressive in build and tools, but inevitably impressive in results. Wolters (Rancho Buena Vista HS, Vista, Calif.) looks more like the neighborhood paper boy than a top prospect. Charitably listed at 5-foot-10 and 165 pounds, Wolters has a squat build and possesses no standout tools. As an example, he ran a pedestrian 7.15 60-yard dash in the SPARQ testing at the Area Code Games. Wolters' strengths are subtle. He won't hit 500-foot homers, get down the line in 3.9 seconds, or throw a 95 mph heater. As Leo Durocher once said of Eddie Stanky, "All the little (guy) can do is win." A lefthanded-hitting middle infielder who profiles as a second baseman in pro ball, Wolters is an intelligent hitter with an advanced approach. He ripped an outside 92 mph fastball to left for a hit early in the game. In the ninth, Wolters smartly dropped the bat head down to catch up to a low inside pitch, driving it down the right-field line for a triple which tied the score. Defensively, Wolters reads the ball coming off the bat unusually well, permitting him to add crucial steps to his lateral range. He exhibits quality fielding actions, an accurate arm and the ability to make difficult and routine plays efficiently and without flash.
8-19: Jeff Sullivan from the AFLAC Games: - Wolters was the game’s Most Valuable Player, going 2-4 with an RBI triple to tie the game late. He is a fun player to watch because he is very undersized at 5-10, 165. He does all the small things well, and he has a cannon for an arm across the diamond. Very solid defensive player and can handle the fastball well at the plate. It will be very interesting to see where he ends up in the draft, or if he heads to college next season. He is going to be a special player.
9-5: from Jonathan Mayo’s 8-26 article on www.minors.mlbblogs.com: - He really knows how to play the game. He's got good hands and a strong arm. The only thing that might keep him from being **** down the road is below-average speed, but he could be the type who sticks because of instincts and positioning. At the plate, he should hit for plenty of average, but not a lot of power.
9-7: From www.perfectgame.com on the AFLAC games: - can play either middle inf positions, just works at it, ave at best runner, better quickness, puts the bat on the ball, good eye reads as a hitter, playable arm and 50 fielder. Top 50 HS for sure. Projection 4-7 rounds if he doesn't lean to college next year.
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. At 5'10" and only 165 lbs, Tony Wolters is not the ideal size for a major league prospect. However, Wolters showed a solid bat at the trials along with above-average speed. His defense is good enough to allow him to play second base and maybe even shortstop.
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. Tony Wolters and Manny Machado notched three hits apiece.
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.
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – 21st on list – MIF Anthony Wolters
10-8 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com – Anthony Wolters, Rancho Buena Vista HS (CA) - Wolters is the only major prep prospect in this class that might turn out to be a second baseman in the long-term. He’s got a plus hit tool and is a heady player, and while he isn’t blessed with all the tools of the players listed above, he’s one of the better on-field performers in this class. Projected draft position: Early-second to early-third round.
1-3 from www.perfectgame.com: - Top 2010 HS MIFs. Based on summer performance (PG Natl SC,TOS,Area Code, East Pro SC, Under Armour & AFLAC) and lots of discussions. - Tony Wolters 5'8- Aflac All American. Size dictates 2b all the way but for now tools play at ss.(6.81 60 at PG Natl SC) Smooth actions-good bat speed. Pure bb player.Solid Area Code, hit game tying triple. Was named Aflac MVP. Won Rawlings Golden Glove award in San Diego. Team USA alum. Love the way he plays,brawler. Skys the limit.
4-9: Tony Wolters is a shortstop from Rancho Buena Vista High in Vista, Calif. He's a little undersized at 5-foot-10 and 165 pounds, but Wolters is a polished hitter that plays the game hard. He was the MVP of the Aflac All-American Game last summer at Petco Park and also played for Team USA's gold medal Junior National team, where he led the everyday players with a .371 batting average. Baseball America's Conor Glassey caught up with Wolters recently over the phone for an interview. Check it out to hear about Wolters' approach in his at-bats, the prank he played on his friends for April Fools Day and what four people he would like to have over for dinner. . . http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/high-school/?p=112&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
4-28 from: - http://www.baseballrumormill.com - Rancho Buena Vista High School, SS - Wolters is an advanced defensive player who will probably shift to second base as a professional. His fielding actions are quick and fluid, and Wolters can make any play you can dream up—turn the pivot, charge the ball, short hop, go in the hole, etc. A lefthanded hitter, Wolters begins his swing in a wide crouch, with his hands held just above his waist. As the pitch approaches, Wolters moves his hands into a launch position and then attacks the ball with a sweeping uppercut. Wolters' finish is inconsistent—on some swings he releases his top hand too soon, in effect swinging with one hand. On others, he will whip the bat around his head in an awkward circular motion.
5-1 from: http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452824/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - Tony Wolters, SS, Rancho Buena Vista High School, Vista, California - Wolters is undersized at 5-10, 165, and his tools aren't exciting. Despite this, the University of San Diego signee could still go early in the draft due to his outstanding polish, terrific work ethic, and "baseball rat" demeanor that scouts love. He makes hard contact and controls the strike zone better than most players his age, which helps. He's a fine defensive shortstop; although his arm isn't the best, his instincts and positioning are so good that he should be able to remain at short, at least for awhile. He could go somewhere towards the back of the supplemental round or in the second round.
9-24: From:- http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: Mock Draft Version 1 – #27 overall pick - Marcus Littlewood, SS - Pineview HS (UT)
9-28: From http://mlbresource.blogspot.com: - Mock Draft Version 2 - #28 pick overall - Marcus Littlewood, SS - Pineview HS (UT) - Utah does not usually feature very good high school talent but Littlewood has slipped through the cracks and could go in the first round. He is a switch hitting middle infielder with smooth hands and a great feel for the game. He as well is committed to go to the University of San Diego.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #76 Philadelphia Marcus Littlewood SS Pineview HS, Ut. 6'3" 190 B,R
1-21 from www.baseballamerica: - The Sunday session permitted position players to grab center stage. Standouts from the class of 2010 included: Marcus Littlewood, ss, Pine View HS, St. George, Utah: BA’s No. 32 high school prospect, Littlewood is an Area Codes and Aflac veteran. Physically mature at 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds, Littlewood profiles as a third baseman at advanced levels. He possesses a fine arm and advanced fielding actions despite taking too many steps prior to releasing his throws.
4-27 from: - http://baseballbeginnings.com/category/2010-draft - Marcus Littlewood is considered the top position player from Utah in the 2010 Draft. I have heard comments that he may be too big to stay at shortstop. My first thought was, have you ever seen Tulowitzki? My second thought was, did you notice Ripken used to be pretty tall? It won’t be the body size, it will be what he does with his athletic actions, and what position he plays isn’t the question. (For the record, I was fine with him at shortstop in the week I watched him in Summer 2009). The question, for me, is not if he will hit, it will be does he have enough power for third base if he winds up there. Have a look at the video and we’ll continue this discussion.
5-1 from: - http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452668/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - Marcus Littlewood, SS, Pinewood High School, St George, Utah - Utah isn't exactly a baseball hot bed, but Littlewood draws plenty of notice and has been recruited to a top program at the University of San Diego. Listed at 6-3, 200, his tools are considered average to slightly above overall, but he's extremely polished and makes the most of what he has, which makes perfect sense since his dad is a college coach at Dixie State. Not everyone buys into his bat and there are enough doubts to keep him out of the first round, but as a supplemental or second round talent he will attract attention. If he falls much farther than that, he could go the college route and shoot for a premium slot in the '13 class after three years of exposure at San Diego.
8. Zach Alvord – South Forsyth HS (GA) – 6-0, 180 –
7-29: From www.baseballfactory.com: - Zach is a two way player at SS and on the mound with a tall, thin frame that does show projection as it continues to physically mature. He does project best at SS where he has a ton of athletic ability. Foot speed is outstanding as indicated by his 6.91 60 time and he utilizes his quick, athletic feet well in coming to get and playing through, displaying plus foot work. At the plate, hitting abilities are superior with outstanding power. Hands are quick and direct, generating bat speeds with a solid feel for the barrel. On the mound, Alvord has abilities. Fastball shows solid arm side run with 2 solid average off speed pitches. He throws strikes and attacks hitters working ahead. Zach has a big upside and future in the game of baseball and will get a lot of attention from the college coach and scouts.
8-6: From www.baseballamerica.com: - Alvord had a great junior year. He hit .336 and, of his 41 hits, 32 of them went for extra bases—16 doubles and 16 home runs. He didn't hit his first single until 12 games into the season. Alvord is athletic with good power for his size.
8-19: Jeff Sullivan from the AFLAC Games: - Alvord is a great shortstop prospect who can really hit the ball. During the week he put on some of the best BP sessions in San Diego. Alvord has a lot of pop in his bat and is one of the best power hitters in the country. He is also a smooth defensive shortstop and it was great to see him taking tips from Hall of Fame shortstop Ozzie Smith during the week. Alvord went 0-2 with a walk, but hit the ball hard and far in his second at bat against Peter Tago
9-5: from Jonathan Mayo’s 8-26 article on www.minors.mlbblogs.com: - He played second in this game, but he's got the tools to play short for sure. He can really play defense. He has the chance to be a middle infielder who moves up quickly on draft boards next spring, kind of like Jio Mier did this year.
9-7: From www.perfectgame.com on the AFLAC games: - solid fielder, range is good, runs better on the way, good instincts and puts the ball on the bat. Steady player with an Auburn early verbal, I doubt that comes into to play too much if this young man keeps getting stronger as he has the last 3 years.
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – #46 - Zach Alford - 5th SSW on list
10-8 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com – Zach Alvord, South Forsyth HS (GA) Alvord is a skilled player from Georgia that profiles as a decent shortstop or plus second baseman. He is a very skilled hitter with a plus hit tool and possible plus power, and much of his value is wrapped up in his bat. He has a great chance to rise a lot between now and June, but he needs to keep hitting to attract scouting attention, as he’s not an extremely good athlete. Projected draft position: 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: - 41- SS Zach Alvord (5th SS on list)
1-3 from www.perfectgame.com: - Top 2010 HS MIFs. Based on summer performance (PG Natl SC,TOS,Area Code, East Pro SC, Under Armour & AFLAC) and lots of discussions. - Zach Alvord 6'0 - Aflac and Under Armour All American.Plays for perennial powerhose East Cobb Baseball. Has good plate discipline & hitting ability-solid power potential for mif. Made HR derby at PG Natl SC. Polished infielder w/ plus arm strength. 6.76 60 . 4.38 to first. Tends to be dead pull hitter. Good instincts. Solid tools. High Potential.
5-9 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/5/9/1464253/more-seiler-ratings#storyjump - Zach Alvord, SS/RHP, South Forsyth HS (GA), 2C2: Solid offensive middle infielder that is likely to shift to second base at the next level. Good pop and approach, but defense holds him back. Above-average arm, though, and might stick at shortstop in college at Auburn if he's not signable.
9. Josh Rutledge – Alabama –
7/07 fr. www.projectprospect.com: the University of Alabama should have the most talented left side of infield in college next year as SS Josh Rutledge and 3B Ross Wilson both have solid tools with decent power potential.
7-17: went 2-3, 1-R, 1-RBI for Yarmouth-Dennis of the Cape Cod League
10-7 from: - www.mlbresource.blogspot.com: - Josh Rutledge---SS---The captain of the infield is one of the most players that just doesn't have a glaring weakness. He can run, hit, field, and is a leader. He as well as Wilson and perhaps Smith could be high picks in the draft. Last year he hit .305 and I am sure he will improve upon that in 2010.
1-7-9: Morisato's 2010 MLB Mock Draft - Version 1.0 - 25th Overall – The St. Louis Cardinals - Josh Rutledge (SS), Alabama - Rutledge is another college shortstop in this class. He’s a terrific defender, and should remain there as a pro. He also shows good speed, and runs the bases well. However, it’s his offensive potential that causes some concern. Rutledge shows some raw power, and will likely hit for average as a pro. But he has a long swing that, when coupled with his mediocre plate discipline, will limit his total value as a prospect. If his future team is able to get him to lay off just a bit, he should be an average regular. Overall, I think he goes here, allowing the Cardinals to add a closer to the majors talent that may finally solve their long standing hole at short.
1-1-9 from www.draftsite.com: - #60 Oakland Josh Rutledge SS Alabama 6'0" 185 R,R
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 126th
10. Sean Coyle – Germantown HS (PA.)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 84th
11. Jacoby Jones – Richton HS (MS) –
8-6: From www.baseballamerica.com: - Jones is an extremely good athlete that is exciting to watch. With a strong arm and a wirey frame with quick-twitch muscles, Jones has the tools to play multiple positions, including shortstop, third base and center field. He's an above-average runner with a high ceiling and has a verbal commitment to Louisiana State.
1-3 from www.perfectgame.com: - Top 2010 HS MIFs. Based on summer performance (PG Natl SC,TOS,Area Code, East Pro SC, Under Armour & AFLAC) and lots of discussions. - Jacoby Jones 6'3 - Aflac & Under Armour All American. Shows great hitting ability. Had a dbl in Aflac game. Gap to gap potential. Gamer. - Plus speed 6.59 60.Arm strength low avg. Good footwork in field, Athletic with soft hands.Plays hard. High Potential.
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 130th
5-3 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/5/3/1455597/casing-the-states-mississippi#storyjump - JaCoby Jones, SS, Richton HS, Richton - Jones is the best prep prospect in the state of Mississippi this year, and that's due to offensive projection more than anything. Possessing one of the highest offensive ceilings for a middle infielder in the entire class, Jones has received plenty of attention from the scouting community. Featuring an above-average to plus hit tool, combined with average to above-average raw power and above-average speed, Jones profiles as an above-average offensive shortstop at the Major League level. His weaknesses mainly involve his defense, though the problems are more about him outgrowing shortstop than anything else. He features above-average defensive actions at shortstop for now, and he has solid-average range, but he could easily add 20 pounds of muscle, which might result in him moving to third base or the outfield. A former football player, his throwing shoulder has been hit hard by injuries, and a former strength in his pure arm strength is now a concern. He's still a slightly above-average thrower, but there's concern he'll never gain any more arm strength back from when it was a plus tool. However, he's still considered a future shortstop by most, and he could be a very early pick if his LSU commitment is deemed less of a threat than his Boras Corporation commitment. Projected Draft Range: 2nd-5th Round
5-1 from: - http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452668/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - JaCoby Jones, SS, Richton High School, Richton, Mississippi - Another toolsy athlete from the deep South, Jones has a Louisiana State scholarship in his back pocket. Very athletic at 6-3, 195, Jones has a very promising bat that should produce batting average and at least average power as he moves up. He has the range for shortstop but perhaps not the arm strength; there's some chance he could end up at second base or left field. Jones has been on the margins of the first round of various mocks, but is probably more of a supplemental round choice.
12. Dickie Thon, Jr. Academia Perpetio Socorro (PR) -
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 244th
5-1 from: http://www.minorleagueball.com/2010/4/30/1452824/interesting-high-school-hitters#storyjump - Dickie Thon Jr, SS, Perpetuo Socorro School, San Juan, Puerto Rico - The son of former big league infielder Dickie Thon, junior is less polished than you might expect given his bloodlines, but only took up baseball full time this year after focusing previously on track. Scouts like his speed and arm strength, and there is remaining projectability in his 6-2, 180 pound frame. It remains to be seen how much power he'll develop and if he'll remain at shortstop. He has a commitment to Rice, and from a purely developmental perspective college ball would likely be good for him both offensively and defensively. Right now he's probably a third round target, but three years of college development with a strong program could push him higher than that.
13. Chris Bisson –
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 72nd
14. Luke Taylor
15. Blake Kelso – Houston – junior… R/R… junior… 2009: played in all 58 games: .335, 16-2B, 3-3B, 2-HR, 23-RBI, 12-SB… played Cape Cod 2009 ball: .260
7-23: stats thru 7-15 in Cape Cod League: .286, 11-RBI, 14-SB… starting in Cape Cod All-Star game
10-17: from www.collegebaseballblog.com: - voted the 95th top player in college baseball in 2010
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 198th
3-13 from: - http://pnrscouting.com/articles_2010_houstoncollegeclassic_day1_03092010.html
- The best showing of the game came from Houston shortstop Blake Kelso (2010) He displayed good arm strength in the field, as well as solid footwork around the bag and clean actions all around. His range could be fringy for shortstop as a pro, but he handles himself well and flies around the field with good quickness. At the plate, he has quick hands and good bat control, profiling as a potential top-of-the-order bat with an ability to shoot the gaps. He was 2-4 on the day with his second double of the year, and clocked a 4.09 to first on a bunt.
3-24 from: http://pnrscouting.com/articles_stockwatch_2010class_10onthrerise_03232010.html - Stock Watch: Ten on the Rise (2010 Draft Class) - Blake Kelso, SS, Univ. of Houston (#199 on PnR Preseason Top 300): Kelso has shown a good understanding of the strikezone and solid contact skills through a month of play, with a slash line of .354/.422/.506 while walking around once every ten plate appearances and posting a BB/SO rate on the nice side of "1". Defensively, Kelso's range and arm probably profile best at second base as a pro, but he plays a solid short at the collegiate level with most of his mistakes coming when his range is tested. There's very little raw power in the bat, but Kelso has the skillset to develop into a solid contact bat with gap-to-gap pop and plenty of speed to rack-up the extra bases. With the understanding he isn't long for the six-spot, Kelso's bat will likely be the determining factor as to how high he can climb on draft boards. Day 1 isn't out of the question if he can keep up this pace, though he may need to start showing just a little more juice in the bat.
16. Garin Cecchini – Barbe HS (LA) – 6-3, 190 –
7-29: from www.baseballfactory.com: - Cecchini is athletic at 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds. He has good power from the left side of the plate. In the field, he’s fundamentally sound with a good arm, above-average speed and he plays the game hard.
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com: looks great in a uniform, live body, should get bigger and stronger with natural maturity, solid HR power to RF, runs well, better underway, ML arm strength and good hands to stay at SS.
8-15: from XMLBScout on www.perfectgame.com: Garin Cecchini, what can you say? Played all out and didn't allow being hit by pitches to slow him down. Can you say "DEDICATION"?!!! Nice projection to play the hot corner eventually in the bigs! Gamer!
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.
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: - 32 -SS Garin Cecchini – (4th SS on list)
11-9-9 from www.examiner.com: - Top 15 High School Draft Prospects - 13. Garin Cecchini, ss
Barbe HS, Lake Charles, La.
College Commitment: Louisiana State - Cecchini has an athletic 6-foot-2, 200-pound build with a smooth lefthanded swing and the defensive tools that profile well at third base. (3rd SS on list)
11-17 from www.mlbdraft.blogspot.com: - 32. New York Yankees- Garin Cecchini, SS, Barbe HS(LA) - Cecchini has been flying up the boards. The Yankees have to start thinking of a long term replacement for Derek Jeter. Cecchini will need time to develop in the minors, and by the time he's ready, Jeter might be done. (4th SS picked)
11-18 from www.macksmets.blogspot.com: - 30. SS Garin Cecchini – one of my wild cards, I project him out as a late first rounder. I also like his name. (5th SS on list)
1-3 from www.perfectgame.com: - Top 2010 HS MIFs. Based on summer performance (PG Natl SC,TOS,Area Code, East Pro SC, Under Armour & AFLAC) and lots of discussions. - Garin Cecchini 6'2 -Under Armour All American. Big frame. Solid and smooth mif. Good arm strength. Projects well at 3b also. Classic left handed swing- good pull and lift. Good plate discipline. 6.88 60 .Played good lf for Team USA this fall. Plays the game the right way. High Potential.
2010 MLB DRAFT MOCK DRAFT- 12/31/09 – www.jjscouting.com - 32. New York Yankees- Garin Cecchini, SS, Barbe HS(LA) - Cecchini has been flying up the boards. The Yankees have to start thinking of a long term replacement for Derek Jeter. Cecchini will need time to develop in the minors. He is big, and might out grow the shortstop position.
1-15-0 from http://mlbbonusbaby.com: - 27. Philadelphia Phillies – Garin Cecchini, SS, Barbe HS (LA) – I should probably stop writing about Cecchini as a shortstop now, much like Yordy Cabrera. Cecchini’s long-term home is probably third base, though he would have good tools for that spot. Philadelphia has a noted history of drafting prep bats that are down a little on the refinement side of things, and I’d put Cecchini in that class. He’s got as much natural talent as the next prep, but will need significant work and a large number of minor league at-bats before seeing that natural talent on a Major League field. Previously: NR.
1-15-9 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - #32 New York Yankees: SS Garin Cecchini – Barbe HS (LA) - Always important to end on a high note, and I like this match between team and player. Cecchini is an outstanding athlete with a good arm, above-average speed, and very impressive lefthanded power. If you believe he’ll stick at short, then the Yankees can finally claim to have a worthy successor to Derek Jeter in the pipeline. Robbie Aviles, a New York native, is another name that fits here quite well.
4-7 from: - http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Garin Cecchini, 3B, Barbe HS (LA): This one can probably go without explaining. Cecchini tore his ACL in March, and the few scouts that thought he had any future of sticking at shortstop had their hopes shredded along with his ACL. Considered a third base prospect in the long run, Cecchini had lots of things to like about him, but with the injury, he’s going to get no time whatsoever doing baseball activities between now and the draft, so teams that are considering him as a high pick will have to make their assessments based on information from last fall and summer. Add in the fact that Cecchini’s LSU commitment is strong and the fact that he’ll be draft-eligible again after only two years there, and you have a high bonus expectation along with the lack of spring looks. That’s a tough combination, and I expect Cecchini to drop further than Luke Bailey did last year, as Bailey’s injury was later in the spring, and he also had clearly established himself as an elite prospect, which Cecchini failed to do.
4-7 from: - http://mlbbonusbaby.com - Garin Cecchini, 3B, Barbe HS (LA): This one can probably go without explaining. Cecchini tore his ACL in March, and the few scouts that thought he had any future of sticking at shortstop had their hopes shredded along with his ACL. Considered a third base prospect in the long run, Cecchini had lots of things to like about him, but with the injury, he’s going to get no time whatsoever doing baseball activities between now and the draft, so teams that are considering him as a high pick will have to make their assessments based on information from last fall and summer. Add in the fact that Cecchini’s LSU commitment is strong and the fact that he’ll be draft-eligible again after only two years there, and you have a high bonus expectation along with the lack of spring looks. That’s a tough combination, and I expect Cecchini to drop further than Luke Bailey did last year, as Bailey’s injury was later in the spring, and he also had clearly established himself as an elite prospect, which Cecchini failed to do.
17. Mott Hyde – Calhoun HS (GA.)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 116th
18. Mike Antonio – 6-1, 185, R/R –
8-1: from http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com: solid stroke from right side, went with the pitch, showed alley power/extra base type power, eventually will develop 15-20 HR type power, runs well underway, 4.5 home to 1st, a step slow, but is not a clogger, solid arm and glove, to stay at 3b, eventually move to RF or 1b.
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 264th
3-2 from:
Mike Antonio Position: SS School: George Washington HS
State: NY Height: 6’2’’ Weight: 180
Bats: R Throws: R Birth Date: 10/26/91
Seiler Rating: XXX Commitment: St. John’s
Mike Antonio is a solidly-built infielder from the Bronx. He easily rates as the best New York City prospect in this draft class. At the plate, Antonio is still developing what his style of execution is going to be. At the moment, his body is more of a leadoff player’s body, and he has average to above-average speed, so he could fit in that mold if he wanted to. However, his body still has good projection, and if he adds enough strength, he could conceivably turn into a hitter with solid power projection. How he develops physically will dictate that, but the consensus is that he’s probably more of a number two hitter, one with solid athleticism, but not enough speed to leadoff and not enough pop to bat in the middle third. Defensively, he has solid actions and should be able to be an average shortstop if he doesn’t fill out too much and lose range. He has an average arm, and he could move to third base if needed, though second base is probably the better option for him both offensively and defensively. He should be signable in the top seven rounds, and I project him as a third to fifth round prospect and a solid sign.
19. Connor Narron – Charles B. Aycock HS (NC)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 129th
3-12 from http://www.pgcrosschecker.com/articles/DisplayArticle.aspx?article=2201 - CONNOR NARRON, ss, SR, C.B. Aycock HS. Narron was solid, as usual, in his team’s 8-4 victory over Smithfield-Selma. Tall and athletic at 6-foot-3 and 185 pounds, Narron is a polished lefthanded hitter who should make an immediate impact in 2011 at North Carolina, if he’s not swooped up in this year’s draft. He is a smooth defender at shortstop, but his actions might be better suited for third base down the road.
20. Joel Mckeithan – T.C. Robertson HS (NC) -
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 148th
21. Chris Triplett –
11-2 from www.thehardballtimes.com: - Chris Triplett, Royals Baseball Club—Athletic, plus defensive 2010 SS with plus speed. Limited power for now.
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 157th
22. Lonnie Kauppila – Burbank HS (CA.) -
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 162nd
5-5 from: - http://baseballbeginnings.com/2010/05/06/lonnie-kauppila-update - Stanford bound shortstop Lonnie Kaupilla might be one premium tool away from going high enough in the draft to opt out of his college commitment, but he still has to be considered a pro candidate coming out of high school. Here’s why. The main thing that holds Kaupilla back is his below-average pro-graded running. If you put that with his fielding and you liked his offensive upside, that would be a very solid high school draft pick and a guy teams would be more inclined to buy out of college rather than wait for three years.
23. Tyler Cannon – Virginia -
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 209th
24. Kellen Sweeney –
1-3 from www.perfectgame.com: - Top 2010 HS MIFs. Based on summer performance (PG Natl SC,TOS,Area Code, East Pro SC, Under Armour & AFLAC) and lots of discussions. - Kellen Sweeney 6'0-Aflac All American. MLB lineage..Smooth Lefty swing. Quick hands generated plus bat speed. Athletic build. 6.74 60 . Avg arm strength. Good smooth inf actions and instincts. TJ surgery end of summer. He'll be back and ready to go this spring so watch out for this kid.
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 202nd
4-5 from: - http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/4/OpenTopic?a=tpc&s=114295945&f=6174069131&m=1751004502 - Kellen Sweeney is definitely an early round possibility. He had TJ surgery last fall and is now playing better than ever. There are many who are talked about as being the top hitters in this class, but Sweeney is truly one of them. He might be the most "professional" hitter in high school baseball and he's also an outstanding middle infielder. There's not many quicker bats out there. His brother "Ryan" is a an outfielder playing in the Big Leagues with the A's. Ryan was outstanding as a high school player, we projected him to go in the first round (he went in the 2nd rd) and Kellen is even better in some ways (more power).
4-6 from: - http://www.pgcrosschecker.com/articles/DisplayArticle.aspx?article=2248 - Sweeney’s August elbow surgery is quickly becoming a dead issue, as he shows no real signs that it’s held him back in any way. In fact, the only visible effect from the surgery is the 15 lbs of very positive strength that Sweeney has added while focusing on recovery instead of baseball repetitions.
25. Drew Maggi – Arizona State
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 224th
26. Kevin Koziol – Brother Rice HS (Ill.)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 251st
27. Zack Powers – Armwood HS (FL.)
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 282nd
28. Chad Lewis - Marina HS (CA,) –
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 283rd
29. Kyle Convissar – Servena Park HS – (MD.) –
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted
30. Nick DelGuidice – Florida Atlantic
2-8 from www.pnrscouting.com: - mock drafted 293rd
31. Dominic Ficociello – Fullerton Union HS (CA.)
4-22 from pnrscouting: mock drafted #160
32. Andreton Simmons – Western Oklahoma State College
4-22 from pnrscouting: mock drafted # 193
33. Bryce Ortega – Arizona – junior…
10-24 from www.mlbresource.com: - Top Returning Players - Bryce Ortega---SS--- Ortega is a junior this year and returns as the starting shortstop. Hitting .324 with 16 SB shows that Arizona has a true leadoff hitter that will look to spark the Cats this season.
4-1 from http://baseballdraftreport.com - Arizona JR SS Bryce Ortega - Height, Weight: 5-11, 175 - Birth Date: 9/22/88 (Age-21 season) - FR – .326/.409/.429 (25 BB/24 K; 13-15 SB) - SO – .324/.420/.438 (31 BB/32 K; 16-18 SB) - JR – .258/.390/.274 (11 BB/4 K; 9-9 SB) - Ortega put up very consistent numbers in his first two full seasons at Arizona, but has taken a step backwards in the power department in the early going of 2010. As a matter of fact, he’s the only one of the four players listed who has experienced a decline in his performance so far in 2010. The most commonly cited reason for Ortega’s early season struggles relate back to his transition from shortstop (a position he is more than capable of playing, for the record) to second base; not sure I buy it, but it’s a thought. Strong base running and good patience have long been the bedrocks of his offensive game, so it’s good to see those areas remain consistent despite his 2010 contact and power deficiencies. Patience at the plate, a two-year track record of pop (2010 be damned), excellent base running instincts, and a versatile glove fit the potential utility infielder mold pretty well, don’t you think?
34. Brandon Macias - Kansas… junior…
11-9-9 from www.baseballdraftreport.com: JR SS Brandon Macias (2010), another Kansas infielder with plus arm strength. Macias has very good defensive tools that should play up with as he gains experience playing at the highest level of collegiate ball. He has enough pop in his bat to go along with above-average speed to make him an interesting five-tool player to watch this spring.
3-24 from: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - Kansas JR SS Brandon Macias - Height, Weight: 5-10, 183 - Birth Date: 10/10/88 (Age-21 season) - JR – .213/.261/.262 (3 BB/10 K; 0-0 SB) - There is certainly an argument that could be made for Macias to sit atop this particular shortstop list, what with his excellent defensive tools and true plus arm strength and accuracy, but the early season struggles of the former Arizona State enrollee and South Mountain CC shortstop give me pause. Macias has received universal praise for his outstanding work ethic and love of the game, and his big first year playing for South Mountain (in a wood bat league, no less) had scouts thinking they were watching a future everyday shortstop in the making. A disappointing sophomore season chock full of struggles due in large part to a nagging hamstring injury took him off the radar to some degree, but, despite the down year, Macias showed off enough evidence that he’s a player with all five tools (in addition to the aforementioned defensive gifts, Macias has above-average speed and good gap power) present in his game. Kansas has a surprisingly rich recent history of shortstops drafted into the professional ranks, a factor that can only help Macias this June. Many talent evaluators look for programs that have coaching staffs with reputations coaching up certain positions or player types; in this way, Kansas’ strong track record developing up the middle types could be Macias’ gain this June.
35. Jake Schlander –
1-23-10 from www,baseballdraftreport.com: - JR SS Jake Schlander (2010) can really pick it at shortstop, but his inability to make consistent contact, hit for power, and get on base regularly put a damper on his pro prospects. He’s started since day one at Stanford, putting up lines of .232/.307/.256 and .232/.285/.324 his first two seasons. Those are stunningly bad numbers. However, as mentioned, Schlander can really pick it at shortstop. I mean, he can really pick it. Plus range, flawless hands, strong arm, he has it all. He’s like the John McDonald of the college game. John McDonald is a career .238/.276/.317 hitter in the bigs. John McDonald hit .261/.321/.329 in the minors. John McDonald just signed a two year contract that will guarantee him three million dollars. I won’t say that Schlander will ever be a big leaguer making coin like that, but I do feel comfortable predicting that he’ll be on draft boards either this summer or next. He’ll get a chance to show off his defensive versatility this season as Kenny Diekroeger swipes the starting shortstop job away, a blessing in disguise for Schlander’s pro prospects. Expect a forward thinking front office, maybe Seattle or Boston, to pop Schlander late (round 35+) against all offensive odds before he graduates.
4-1 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com: - Stanford JR SS Jake Schlander - Height, Weight: 6-2, 195 - FR – .232/.307/.256 (24 BB/41 K; 3-3 SB) - SO – .232/.288/.324 (16 BB/41 K; 3-4 SB) - JR – .283/.420/.472 (12 BB/7 K; 1-1 SB) - Jake Schlander can really pick it at shortstop, but his inability to make consistent contact, hit for power, and get on base regularly through his first two college seasons has put a damper on his pro prospects. He’s started since day one at Stanford, putting up lines of .232/.307/.256 and .232/.285/.324 in his freshman and sophomore year. Those are stunningly bad numbers. However, as mentioned, Schlander can really pick it at shortstop. I mean, he can really, really pick it. Plus range, flawless hands, strong arm; defensively, Schlander has it all. His defense is so good that I felt comfortable predicting that he’d be on draft boards back when his offensive numbers were, and I say this with all due respect, straight up horrible. One month into the college season Schlander’s bat has show such unexpected signs of life that it may be time to start recalibrating his final draft position’s ceiling. Before the season I wrote this: “Expect a forward thinking front office, maybe Seattle or Boston, to pop Schlander late (round 35+) against all offensive odds.” If the offensive gains can be maintained, Schlander could see his draft stock jump up 20 rounds. Too drastic a reaction to a small sample of early season plate appearances? Perhaps, but I’m alright with jumping the gun a bit when the tools are there to justify it.
36. Jake Lemmerman – Duke…
3-14 from XMLBScout @ http://perfectgame.atinfopop.com/4/OpenTopic?q=Y&a=tpc&s=114295945&f=6174069131&m=4361060202&p=2 - SS Jake Lemmerman is a jr this year, 6'1 185 R/R, 45-50 arm with very good hands, not fleet afoot, but runs 4.3 which is solid and he makes very good contact as a hitter and adapts/adjusts to pitches. Reminds me of a Mark DeRosa a little bit. Could be a nice 8-12 round guy if he'd sign. He's an outstanding student but he also loves baseball and is very interesting.
3-16 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com: - Saturday: JR SS Jake Lemmerman (Duke): 3-6, HR, 2B, 4 RBI, 3 R, K - I still need to finalize some of my college positional rankings, but I’m starting to think Jake Lemmerman may sneak up higher on the SS list than I ever thought possible heading into the year. My early reports on him, both from firsthand observation and through the grapevine, all indicated that his future was as an all-defense/above-average speed/minimal offense type of player. Then somebody casually mentioned they liked his bat more than most, citing untapped power potential in his 6-2, 185 pound frame. It’s early yet, but so far that little birdie has proved prophetic. Lemmerman is a quality player who will solidify his spot in the first ten rounds if he keeps up his current level of performance.
3-22 from: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - Duke JR SS Jake Lemmerman - Height, Weight: 6-2, 185 - Birth Date: 5/4/89 (Age-21 season) - FR – .283/.353/.373 (15 BB/24 K; 5-7 SB) - SO – .287/.355/.448 (20 BB/32 K; 13-16 SB) - JR – .293/.391/.520 (11 BB/14 K; 4-5 SB) - Lemmerman, the youngest and best defensive player of our quartet, is a good runner (22-28 career SB) with enough untapped potential with the bat to legitimately claim an everyday role professionally someday. Lemmerman is already a plus defender with quick hands, above-average range, and an uncanny knack for turning the double play. If his strong offensive start to 2010 is for real, as many believe, he could hear his name called anywhere between rounds 5 through 8 on draft day. The renewed interest in defense should help Lemmerman as much as just about any player in this year’s college class.
37. Steve Cardullo -
3-22 from: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - Florida State SR SS Stephen Cardullo - Height, Weight: 6-0, 200 - Birth Date: 8/31/87 (Age-22 season) - FR – .273/.308/.545 (1 BB/2 K; 0-0 SB; limited at bats) - SO – .387/.473/.613 (11 BB/14 K; 2-3 SB; limited at bats) - JR – .376/.476/.612 (45 BB/46 K; 20-24 SB) - SR – .324/.449/.437 (13 BB/13 K; 5-5 SB) - Cardullo’s defense is arguably the weakest of this bunch, but his junior year numbers are simply too wonderful to be ignored. Those numbers are made all the more impressive when you consider Cardullo started with Florida state as a walk-on who only earned 73 at bats through the end of sophomore year. The junior year breakout came completely out of nowhere, but Cardullo has managed to maintain some of the gains (largely those made in his mature, discipline approach at the plate) while still showing just enough of the gap power to keep scouts believing he has enough pop to spend a 15th to 20th round pick on him. I liken him to a less acclaimed version of former teammate Tony Delmonico, 2008 6th round pick of the Dodgers. Delmonico has seen time behind the plate and on the right side of the infield in the minors so far, a path that could be the best hope for Cardullo (who already has some college experience at both first and second) to follow if he wants to someday crack a big league roster. Without sounding too much like a broken record, defensive value through versatility will be a large part of what gets any of the above players to the big leagues. Steady defense at all five defensive spots + professional approach taken to every at bat + gap power + average speed = potential big league utility player.
38. Tyler Cannon -
3-22 from: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - Virginia SR SS Tyler Cannon - Height, Weight: 6-0, 205 - Birth Date: 8/30/87 (Age-22 season) - FR – .279/.350/.354 (20 BB/46 K; 8-12 SB) - SO – .252/.324/.345 (23 BB/45 K; 14-17 SB) - JR – .351/.451/.489 (35 BB/41 K; 17-19 SB) - SR – .368/.442/.566 (10 BB/12 K; 0-2 SB) - Cannon is solid in all phases of the game, but lacks fluidity on defense at any one given position. Between his lack of a true defensive home and his steady, but unspectacular bat, he has many believing his professional role will be that of a super-sub capable of playing literally every position on the diamond, including catcher. I’ve compared him to current big league utility infielder Eric Bruntlett (who hit .342/.463/.485 with more walks than strikeouts for Stanford in his third and final year as a college player) in the past, a resemblance many first think of as an insult, but one I consider to be a compliment. Cannon is a proven versatile defender at the college level who, as previously mentioned, doesn’t really have any glaring deficiencies in his tool set, minus a lack of long ball power. It seems that the majority of area scouts like Cannon better than I do, so it really wouldn’t be a shock to see Cannon go first out of the players listed. I’ll stick to my guns and insist on liking the guys listed above due largely to their greater probability of sticking at shortstop professionally, but I can see how Cannon would be a player who would grow on you with repeated viewings. After all, my “insulting” comp Bruntlett went in the 9th round back in 2000. That seems like the area of the draft that Cannon’s final projection will likely be in June.
39. Tim Smalling:
3-22 from: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - Virginia Tech JR SS Tim Smalling - Height, Weight: 6-3, 207 - Birth Date: 10/14/87 (Age-22 season) - FR – .288/.389/.397 (21 BB/27 K; 1-4 SB) - SO – .250/.309/.442 (17 BB/61 K; 6-8 SB) - JR – (transferred in from Arkansas; sat out 2009 season) - rJR – .436/.482/.667 (5 BB/7 K; 2-3 SB) - Smalling is, perhaps somewhat ironically, the biggest of the four shortstops on our list. It’s ironic because his name has “small” in it. Clever observation, right? Anyway, that size (6-3, 207) and a strong arm make him look like a player capable of playing third professionally, but his skill set is still far better suited for shortstop. Good footwork and soft hands should keep him up the middle going forward, but that aforementioned potential for defensive versatility should help him in his cause for playing time at the next level. It may be a little strange to see a player like Smalling, a guy with a reputation as being more than a little hacktastic, atop this list, but his combined hit/power tools top that of any other draft-eligible middle infielder in the conference. Admittedly, Smalling’s plate discipline doesn’t look all that promising when judging solely by the numbers above, but scouts have given him high grades in his pitch recognition so far in 2010. He’s done a much better job at laying off balls he knows he can’t do much with (note the drop of strikeouts so far) and hammering pitches in his happy fun-time hitting zone (hard to argue with his power indicators thus far). Smalling’s total package of above-average offensive and defensive skills could get him into the top 5 rounds this June.
40. Kenny Jackson –
3-24 from: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - Texas A&M JR SS Kenny Jackson - Height, Weight: 6-4, 195 - Birth Date: 7/2/89 (Age-20 season) - JR – .421/.511/.447 (7 BB/4 K; 1-1 SB) - The former Alvin College shortstop reminds me of current Cardinals starter Brendan Ryan. Both players are smooth defenders, possess strong arms, bigger than usual shortstop frames, and enough offensive skills and defensive consistency to provide value as a starter. Jackson hasn’t put up big power numbers in 2010, but showed off enough pop prior to joining the Aggies to have some observers (myself included) buy in to his double digit home run potential as a professional. Like the vast majority of the college shortstops on this list, Jackson’s clearest path to the big leagues will be as a utility player with a strong glove. Unlike so many of the others, however, Jackson has clear starter upside at the position if he continue to tap into his above-average tools.
41. Spencer Davis:
3-26 from: - http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/draft/draft-tracker/2010/269724.html - Spencer Davis, ss, The Woodlands (Texas) HS - Davis, a Texas A&M recruit, will get plenty of looks this season, as he's the starting shortstop for The Woodlands (Texas) High, the No. 17 high school team in the country and one that features the top high school prospect, righthander Jameson Taillon, on the mound. Scouts are taking a liking to the physical, 6-foot-3 shortstop who hits third in the Highlanders' potent lineup."If there's a guy that could overshadow Taillon on that team, I think it's him," an American League area scout said. "He's got a very athletic body and I think he could play shortstop in the big leagues. He moves well, he has a great physique—6-3, probably 205 (pounds), broad shoulders, narrow waist. He moves well with a lot of whip in the bat—it's a good, quick bat. If he doesn't outgrow the position, from a bulk standpoint, I think he could stay at short at the pro level."
42. Dustin Harrington
4-1 from: - http://collegebaseball360.com/2010/04/01/two-east-carolina-baseball-players-dismissed-from-team - East Carolina junior shortstop Dustin Harrington and junior pitcher Sthil Sowers have been dismissed from the baseball team according to an announcement from head coach Billy Godwin Thursday afternoon. Godwin could not elaborate on a reason for the dismissal, citing federal student privacy laws. Harrington, the reigning Conference USA Hitter-of-the-Week, started 25 games and is currently ranked fourth in the conference with a .443 (47-for-106) average. The Taylorsville, N.C., native also has five home runs, 21 RBI and 31 runs scored, all among the team leaders.
43. Shea Vucinich -
4-1 from http://baseballdraftreport.com - Washington State JR SS Shea Vucinich - Height, Weight: 6-0, 183 - FR – .316/.357/.440 (8 BB/34 K; 2-5 SB) - SO – .230/.341/.377 (27 BB/41 K; 8-10 SB) - JR – .358/.460/.604 (6 BB/13 K; 3-4 SB) - Reports on Vucinich’s defense vary depending on the day, but most seem to agree his upside with the glove is significant. I’ve even heard some evaluators touting him as a potential plus defender up the middle. He also has shown good power potential throughout his career with the Cougars. That’s the good news. The less good news is centered around Vucinich’s aggressive approach at the plate. His free swinging ways help explain some of power output (swing hard at anything around the plate and sometimes the ball goes very far), but it’s also gotten him in trouble in the past. Something about his skill set had me really curious about locking down some worthwhile comps. Best two I came up with are former Padres starting SS/2B Damian Jackson (44th rounder) and current Red Sox minor leaguer Tug Hulett (14th rounder). It wouldn’t surprise me to see Vucinich split the difference between the two, both in eventual draft landing spot and pro career accomplishments.
44. Niko Gallego:
4-1 from: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - UCLA JR SS Niko Gallego - Height, Weight: 5-11, 180 - Birth Date: 12/29/88 (Age-21 season) - FR – .317/.378/.415 (2 BB/7 K; 1-2 SB) - SO – .273/.361/.326 (16 BB/34 K; 6-10 SB) - JR – .305/.411/.542 (8 BB/8 K; 5-5 SB) - Gallego didn’t do much to impress in his first two years with the Bruins, but experience in two quality wood bat summer leagues (Northwoods League and Cape Cod League) and pro baseball bloodlines (father Mike had almost 3,000 big league at bats) make him a good bet to hear his name called on draft day. The quality start in 2010 certainly doesn’t hurt his prospect stock, but, again, his pro future maxes out at utility player. He doesn’t quite have dear old dad’s glove, but may have more upside in his bat than the .239/.320/.328 career line put up by his father.
4-29 from: - http://baseballbeginnings.com/2010/04/29/niko-gallego-snapshot/#more-5789 - This is the kind of infielder who does so many little things well and understands how to play the game. Put that with the tools and you can see him finding his way just fine. I see Gallego as a right-handed hitting line-drive type who will live by using his hands and going center to left field. There may be modest pop in there in the coming years as he gets stronger, though I would be wary of too many balls in the air. Hitting with wood every day should smooth that out quickly. Defensively, he sticks. I like his athletic actions up the middle. I think he’s at least a 60 fielder who can stay at short – arm is enough, great hands, just enough range. Average runner. Rangy, tall and athletic body type. Some physical projection remains. This is a player who grew on me the more I watched him. Many times, the guys who grow on a scout are the guys who hang around the game the longest. Grades: Hit 30/55, Power 20/50, Run 50/50, Arm 50/50, Field 60/60 OFP = 53
45. Taylor Lindsay:
4-4 from: - http://www.baseballrumormill.com - The best prep player in Arizona this year, although the crop in the state is unusually weak. His upper half works very well, as he has quick hands and good loft in his swing. But he has a pretty soft front side and doesn't utilize his lower half much at all to generate power. He plays shortstop now but won't remain there in pro ball - his most likely destination is second base. A possibility at catcher he has a plus arm and a pretty good body for a catcher and he's worked out back there for at least one team. Even as a second or third baseman, he's a Top-100 guy in this draft at worst, but if he demonstrates that he can catch he would almost certainly be a Top-50 pick.
46. Matt Lipka:
4-29 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/4/29/1450107/casing-the-states-texas-part-three#storyjump - Matt Lipka, SS, McKinney HS, McKinney - Lipka is teammates with Zach Lee, and he's been an interpreter of sorts for Lee, who has refused to talk to scouts directly due to the distraction. Aside from that act of kindness, Lipka is quite a player himself. A natural athlete who also has a possible football career ahead of him at Alabama, Lipka features a potential plus hit tool, as well as plus-plus speed that rates as the top speed in the state. While he doesn't project for anything more than below-average power in the 8-10 home run category in his prime, that's not his game. He's a better hitter when he's going gap-to-gap, punishing balls with good balance. He's rather raw in his pitch recognition, which might result in a longer path in the minors, but the talent is good enough to warrant a high pick anyway. In the field, he's just as raw as he is recognizing pitches. He has above-average range, but his reaction time is sometimes below-average, and he can get his footwork mixed up a little at times. Some scouts want to move him across the bag to second base, where he could use his natural athleticism and above-average arm to be an elite fielder with a good bat. However, he could also land in center field, which would require less polish in order to accelerate his learning at the plate. Like Lee, Lipka's going to have to make a tough decision in the coming weeks, as scouts will want to know his signability before draft day, though his signability is less concerning than Lee's. Projected Draft Range: 2nd-5th Round
47. DeMarcus Henderson:
5-3 from: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2010/5/3/1455597/casing-the-states-mississippi#storyjump - DeMarcus Henderson, SS, Wayne County HS, Waynesboro - Henderson comes from a background that isn't completely baseball, and a number of scouts think he's going to really blossom once he concentrates on the sport. A very talented quarterback in high school, Henderson turned down at least a pair of scholarship offers to continue his football playing days into college, knowing that his future really rested in baseball. He's much too small to be a real pro threat as a quarterback, but his fit in baseball is quite good. As you would expect, Henderson's a gifted athlete that relies on plus speed for most of his current game. He projects well for average, getting above-average hit tool grades, but he lacks power projection, and his defensive home is unsettled. He has the tools to be a solid-average shortstop, featuring solid range and average hands, and his arm is average, as well. However, he lacks the consistency there, and he's a good enough athlete to warrant a move to center field if a team believes it's needed. Though Henderson's total projection isn't at the elite level as with some of his fellow Mississippi high school products, he's a solid enough prospect to warrant some draft consideration. His Mississippi State commitment is considered fairly solid for his expected draft range. Projected Draft Range: 10th Round-Undrafted
48. J.J. Thompson:
5-4 from: - http://thecollegebaseballblog.com/2010/05/03/big-west-baseball-player-of-the-week - J.J. Thompson of Cal Poly and Scott Lyman of UC Davis helped their teams to series victories as the recipients of Big West Field Player and Pitcher of the Week, respectively. The junior shortstop hit .583 (7-for-12) as the Mustangs took two of three games from Long Beach State. Five of Thompson’s seven hits went for extra bases, including two doubles, two triples and a home run. Thompson scored five runs and drove in five more while adding a walk and a stolen base to his totals. In Saturday’s 8-4 win over the 49ers, Thompson hit 3-for-3 with two doubles and a triple, producing three RBI. He scored four times in Sunday’s 16-15, 11-inning triumph, batting 3-for-4 with a triple and a home run.
49. Carter Jurica - KSU
3-17 from: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - JR SS Carter Jurica (Kansas State): 5-9, HR, 2B, 2 BB, SB, 4 RBI, 3 R in doubleheader - In a weak college shortstop class, Carter Jurica should see his stock soar this spring. He has always had the right tools to succeed (plus speed, enough pop, good athlete), but has put everything together in a big way so far this season.
3-24 from: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - Kansas State JR SS Carter Jurica - Height, Weight: 5-11, 185 - Birth Date: 9/23/88 (Age-21 season) - FR – .240/.329/.360 (15 BB/23 K; 9-14 SB) - SO – .353/.437/.492 (26 BB/45 K; 23-32 SB) - JR – .432/.495/.662 (11 BB/9 K; 10-13 SB) - In a weak college shortstop class, Carter Jurica should see his stock soar this spring. He has always had the right tools to succeed (plus speed, enough pop, good athlete), but has put everything together in a big way so far this season. The raw tools are there for Jurica to succeed professionally, but it’ll take a team buying in to his long-range projection if he wants to sneak up into the top ten rounds this June.
50. Anthony Rendon -
2-5: from www.collegebaseball360.com: Baseball America Pre-Season All American team: - First Team - 3B Anthony Rendon, Rice
51. Sean O’Brien – Clearwater HS (FL) –
8-6: From www.baseballamerica.com: - at 6-foot-3 and 175 pounds, O'Brien has a pro body and the makings of five good tools. He has a quiet approach in the batter's box with good balance. He consistently gets the barrel on the ball and hits hard line drives. In the field he is fluid with a strong arm.
10-5 from http://baseballdraftreport.com: - top 50 prospects in 2010 draft – #42 – Sean O’Brien – 3rd SS on list
10-6 from: http://baseballdraftreport.com: - SS Sean O’Brien - I realize I have O’Brien lower than Colon on this list, but I’m not quite sure why. I’m a man who loves upside, and O’Brien’s ceiling is higher than just about any other shortstop in this year’s class. Of course, I’m also a realistic enough fellow who can readily admit that Colon is a much more certain bet to reach his upside than O’Brien.
52. Joey Bergman – College of Charleston – senior- 2009: .452 15-HR 57-RBI
12-20 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com – voted to the 2010 MCBWA 3rd team all-american squad
53. Brad Miller – Clemson – Sophomore… 6-0, 175… drafted in the 39th round by the Rangers in 2008… batted only .273 as freshman
54. B. A. Vollmuth –
2-5: from www.collegebaseball360.com: Baseball America Pre-Season All American team: - Third Team - SS B.A. Vollmuth, Southern Mississippi
55. Brandon Drury – Grants Pass HS ( OR) – 6-1, 180, R/R – excellent arm strength… good body control defensively… pure right hand swing…
56. James Harris – Etowah HS (GA) – 6-1, 190, L/R – very athletic… all-around toolsy talent…
57. Jacob May -
9-8: www.pgtracker.com lists as one of the top 10 high school players coming out of Ohio.
58. Kevin Haas – Akron –
10-7 from: - www.mlbresource.blogspot.com: - Kevin Haas---SS---Slick fielding Haas continues to play defensive and hit for a high average. The senior will once again be the leader of the infield and along with Plata and Kordal asked to carry the load that was left when power hitting Matt Roberts left after last season.
59. Ryan Hudson– UT-San Antonio – junior… 2009: .343, 17-HR, 43-RBI, .719 Slug%
10-15 from www.thecollegebaseballblog.com: - ranked as the 96th top college player for the 2010 season
60. Mike Lowery – LSU junior…
12-22 fr. http://baseballdraftreport.com: - JR SS Mike Lowery (2010) is out for the year as he recovers from back surgery.
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