MOCK: - The Sports Bank

1. Washington Nationals: Bryce Harper, C, College of Southern Nevada


Two things are guaranteed in Washington right now: Harper will be drafted on June 7 and Stephen Strasburg will make his MLB debut on June 8. What a start to a week, right?

2. Pittsburgh Pirates: Manny Machado, SS, Miami Brito HS (Florida)

The second best position player in the draft has a very similar skill set to the 2007-08 versions of JJ Hardy, but has repeatedly stated his admiration for Alex Rodriguez. With the way he’s been hitting lately, this Scott Boras client could very well develop into more of an A-Rod and less of a Hardy.

3. Baltimore Orioles: Jameson Taillon, RHP, The Woodlands HS (Texas)

Taillon is widely considered the top pitching prospect available, and Pittsburgh’s best current and future starters are Paul Maholm and Zack Duke. Taillon is a 6’7” power arm complete with three plus pitches (fastball, slider, curveball) that has some minor command problems found in nearly every raw talent coming out of high school.

4. Kansas City Royals: Anthony Ranaudo, RHP, LSU

Ranaudo has boosted his draft stock tremendously over the past few weeks with a couple of strong appearances in the SEC Tournament. It seems as if he has worked his way back into the top five mix, thanks to a healthy right arm to go with his 6′7″ college-developed frame.

5. Cleveland Indians: Drew Pomeranz, LHP, Ole Miss

Pomeranz is the best lefty in the draft, but his arm angle has been somewhat concerning for a few teams. His ability to pitch in big situations, buckle hitter’s needs with his power curve, and his developing changeup will be too enticing for him to drop below the fifth pick.

6. Arizona Diamondbacks: AJ Cole, RHP, Oviedo HS (Florida)

Cole’s fastball sits in the low 90s, but has reached 96 occasionally over the spring season, and it should gain some speed and movement as Cole beefs himself up a bit against minor league hitter. He’s the second best high school pitcher in the draft (behind Taillon), and has just as much upside if he can put on a few pounds.

7. New York Mets: Zack Cox, 2B/3B, Arkansas


Cox’s recent muscle strain shouldn’t affect his career or draft stock. This left handed underclassman can mash and Cox would fit nicely as the heir apparent to David Wright at the hot corner. He’s got some work to do on the fielding side of things, but that’s what the minor leagues are for.

for more... http://www.thesportsbank.net/mlb/2010-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-6-2-10