Mack's Mets: 2012 Draft: - The Top 73 Outfielders in the Draft

10/15/11

2012 Draft: - The Top 73 Outfielders in the Draft

1) Nick Williams –

10-11-10 – Top 10 2012 Prospects from Jim Callis/Baseball America - 7. Trey Williams, ss, Valencia HS, Santa Clarita, Calif. - 4. Nick Williams, of, Ball HS, Galveston, Texas

6-11-10: -

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20110608&content_id=20222396&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb&partnerId=rss_mlb Nick Williams, OF, Galveston Ball HS, Texas: He's got a very advanced idea at the plate, a left-handed hitter with the chance to be a run producer with power. He's athletic and should profile very well as a corner outfielder.

Ranked #3 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-10-11 from http://www.draftsite.com/mlb/mock-draft/2012 - 5 Oakland Nick Williams OF Ball High School (TX) 6' 3" 195

6-11-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/722354-2012-mlb-mock-draft-early-predictions-for-next-years-top-10-picks#/articles/722354-2012-mlb-mock-draft-early-predictions-for-next-years-top-10-picks/page/6 - Williams exploded onto the 2012 draft scene as a high school junior last summer at the Perfect Game World Wood Baseball Association National Championship Tournament. He went 12-for-26 with six home runs and 12 RBIs over eight games, including one 4-for-4 performance in which each of his hits came in the form of a homer. He also racked up seven RBIs in that contest. It wasn't too long after that that colleges starting knocking on his door. Scouts have already started to compare him to Ken Griffey Jr., with some likening his powerful swing to Darryl Strawberry's. After his sophomore year, all the talk about Williams was that while he had a lot of raw power, he was helpless against good breaking-balls. He worked very hard on that throughout the season and responded with his performance at the WWBA championship: All four of his home runs came on breaking balls. At 6'3" and 195 pounds, Williams has a very athletic-looking frame and has been described by Perfect Game as an "excellent athlete." He also shined at the Area Code Games and was a regular among the HR derby circuit last summer. He should be a competitor at more than a few showcases this summer, giving him greater exposure to the rest of the country.

7-4-11: - http://diamondprospects.blogspot.com/2011/07/nick-williams-draft-profile.html - Williams has drawn numerous comparisons to Ken Griffey Jr. and Daryl Strawberry thanks to his potential for five plus to plus-plus tools. He burst onto the scene after his sophomore season when he hit four home runs in one game at the WWBA 16-and-under National Championship Tournament, all on off-speed pitches. He also was the 2010 Power Showcase runner-up as he displayed his plus-plus raw power to all fields. Williams keeps his hands back nicely with good hand-eye coordination and should be a .300 hitter at the next level. With plus speed and an arm that can reach 90 MPH from the outfield, Williams is an athlete that GM's can dream on. If he can put it all together Nick Williams has the potential to be one of the elite players in the Major Leagues.

7-21-11: - http://www.mockdraftmania.com - 2. Chicago Cubs Nick Williams OF Ball High School Texas This is such a tough call between high school outfielder Nick Williams and Stanford righty Mark Appel. You have a special batter with Nick Williams who could bat 3rd in your lineup down the road and then you got a Stanford ace who may be able to anchor your teams rotation. Nick Williams is the best player available and some people are comparing him to Ken Griffey Jr. Williams is a complete 5 tool prospect with the batting average, home run ability, base stealing speed/athleticism, rocket arm for quick throws that enable him to throw from the outfield to the infield, and the fielding tools as a defensive player in the outfield. Williams converts RBI’s and home runs on a very consistent basic.

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Nick Williams, Ball HS, Galveston TX, 6’2 190, L/L, smooth hitting CF with very good actions and discipline as a hitter and fielder, ave to abv ave arm strength, room to fill out and get stronger, ran 4.2 from LH side, has power to alleys, definite top 5 for 2012 to follow.

9-1-11: - http://projectprospect.com/article/2011/08/31/2012-mlb-draft-top-prospects - Nick Williams, OF, Galveston Ball HS, TX - Williams features a compact swing with a plane conducive - to covering the outer half well but has quick enough hands to still burn on the inner-half. Williams has plus power and a good amount of loft in his swing. You could make a good argument as to what is more projectable, Williams' body or his swing. Currently, he keeps his front side closed longer than needed, and doesn't open up into contact as much as he could, though he can occasionally get caught in between and pull off with his front side. In time, he could learn how to clear his front side to let his back side fully drive through, which, not coincidentally, is when things would get really entertaining. Clearing his hands from 'hiding' behind his front shoulder might help him get even quicker on the inner half as well. Oh, did we mention he's 6-foot-3' 190 pounds and has room to add 20 pounds without forcing himself to re-learn how to run with the additional weight? Williams is a plus runner with at least an average arm. He has current strength and figures to add plenty more. If you see anyone laying any Griffey comps on this kid, go ahead and laugh them out of the room. However, calling Williams a 'tool shed' certainly won't get you laughed at. Factual statements have a tendency to get treated with respect.

8-25-11: - http://sullydraft.blogspot.com - This summer I went to the National Showcase, Prospect Classic, and the Under Armour All-American Game. Here is my updated top 50 HS prospects. - 2. Nick Williams-OF, Galveston Ball HS

9-1-11: - http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com - Nick Williams, Ball HS, Galveston TX, 6'2 190, L/L, smooth hitting CF with very good actions and discipline as a hitter and fielder, ave to abv ave arm strength, room to fill out and get stronger, ran 4.2 from LH side, has power to alleys, definite top 5 for 2012 to follow.

2) Byron Buxton:

7-30-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=6082 - Byron Buxton (2012 OF/RHP, Round Trip Baseball)- From a town of 4,150 people, Buxton is a player that may have slipped through the cracks a couple of decades ago. The supremely athletic OF with plus plus speed is a two sport star for Appling County High School (also a star QB), preventing him from getting much exposure during the fall. When PG last saw Buxton he showed flashes of what he would become, in spite of going 2-for-14 as a RF the scouting notes suggested that he was capable of much more. In 2011 Buxton announced his presence as a big time prospect for the 2012 MLB Draft at the 18u and 17u WWBA National Championships. Buxton hit .393/.500/.675 and went a perfect 6-for-6 on stolen base attempts while also going 2-0 with a Save, allowing just three runs over 12 innings, striking out 16 and walking just three. Buxton’s fastball topped out at 94 mph, but his impressive arm strength is eclipsed by his blazing speed. Buxton posted phenomenal home-to-first times for a right handed hitter, with PG scouts clocking him between 3.96 and 4.12 seconds. With improving swing mechanics and quick hands, Buxton has a chance to develop into a legitimate 5-tool player and after his performance in Marietta, he will be followed very closely leading up to next year’s draft.

8-15-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/8/14/2362719/2011-under-armour-all-america-game-top-10-prospects - 2011 Under Armour All America Game Top 10 Prospects - 6. Byron Buxton 2012 OF/RHP 6'2 170 Baxley, GA Appling County - Buxton is an impressive athlete. He is fast, has a great arm and can really hit. He could have 20-25 home run power. I'm not sure he can stay in CF. I haven't seen him enough to know, but if he can, he will be a very high pick.

8-15-11: - http://www.draftsite.com/article/High-School-Names-to-Know/94 - Byron Buxton – OF HT-6’3’’ WT-175 Appling County (GA) The 2012 class is showing itself to be slightly deeper than assumed and this is another sleeper in this class. Byron Buxton’s name has been shooting up boards towards the end of the summer. His breakout event was the East Coast Professional Showcase this year. He showed he could be a true five tool talent – he can also pitch and has hit 94 MPH, showcasing his strong arm. An outstanding athlete, his East Coast Showcase performance has made some scouts call Buxton a version of Justin Upton with more useable speed. That is high praise and makes Buxton a top name to watch.

3) Victor Roache:

Victor Roache - Ranked #181 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-10-11 from http://www.draftsite.com/mlb/mock-draft/2012 - 13 Baltimore Victor Roache 1B Georgia

6-11-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/722354-2012-mlb-mock-draft-early-predictions-for-next-years-top-10-picks#/articles/722354-2012-mlb-mock-draft-early-predictions-for-next-years-top-10-picks/page/10 - (Victor) Roache is the top power hitter in college baseball and finished as the NCAA home run king for the 2011 season, ending the regular season with 30 long-balls in just 60 games! He also finished tied for the national RBI lead with 83. In a season where the sport's major power hitters were supposed to be affected negatively by the new BBCOR bats, Roache flourished, out-homering almost 200 teams—by himself. Roache was a sought-after guy back in 2009, when the Tigers took a chance on him in the 25th-round, but he wisely turned down their offer to attend college and refine his relatively raw skills. The decision has served him well, as Roach has not only improved his hitting ability (including his prowess against breaking balls), but also learned to play two positions—first base and the outfield—where he spent the majority of this year for GS. The White Sox happen to have a couple of holes in their roster, especially with Paul Konerko getting up there in age. They could use a franchise-type guy at first-base to plug that hole, and Roache offers as much power as anyone in this class, so I can think of no better replacement

6-15-11: - http://collegebaseball360.com/2011/06/15/ncbwa-college-baseball-all-american-teams - NCBWA Division I All-America Team - FIRST TEAM

OF *Victor Roache, Georgia Southern, So. .326 62 230 58 75 10-2-30 84 37 42 3/7

6-21-11: - http://v2.capecodbaseball.org/news/week/index.html?article_id=1210 - Cotuit’s Victor Roache (Georgia Southern) has slugged his way to being named this summer’s first Player of the Week. Roache filled up the stat sheet this week, batting .421 while hitting two home runs and driving in seven. Roache’s week was punctuated by a 2-2 performance against Bourne, where he walked twice, homered, and drove in three. Roache is a sophomore at Georgia Southern. His summer totals to date are impressive, batting .379 with four doubles and nine runs batted in, to go along with the two homers that he hit this week. The right fielder/designated hitter is as disciplined as hitters come; he has more walks (nine) than strikeouts (six) this season.

7-6-11: - http://www.collegebaseballdaily.com/2011/07/05/july-5th-cape-cod-baseball-league-recap/#more-37170 Victor Roache (Georgia Southern) went 3-3 with three runs scored, three RBI, and a solo homer as he led the Kettleers to a 11-2 victory over the Bourne Braves.

7-29-11: - Victor Roache (Georgia Southern)- He has dominated the Cape Cod Baseball League this summer as he has a .328 batting average while hitting six homers and driving in 28 runs. Roache is coming off an outstanding sophomore year with Georgia Southern which saw him hit .326 with 30 homers and 84 RBI. These numbers were off the charts as the new bat rules went into effect this season to help deaden the bats but Roache’s was far from it. - http://www.collegebaseballdaily.com/2011/07/29/2011-cape-cod-all-star-game-players-to-watch/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CollegeBaseballDaily+%28College+Baseball+Daily%29&utm_content=Twitter

8-14-11: - http://mlbdraftguide.com/1/2011/08/10/the-good-the-disappointing-from-the-cape - Victor Roache, OF/1B, Georgia Southern- Roache had an great sophomore season at Georgia Southern, with a .326/.438/.778 with 30 home runs. He was named to muliple All-American teams, including Baseball America and Louisville Slugger. I was very interested to see how Roache would handle the competition at the Cape. If this summer was a test, Roache passed, easily. He looked like a possible triple crown winner for a while and finished with a .316/.467/.537 line, leading the Cape with a 1.004 OPS. After being named the CCBL’s Outstanding Pro Prospect, Roache’s place near the top of the first round appears secure.

8-25-11: - http://bullpenbanter.com - With Roache there will definitely be strikeouts, but also a good portion of patience and power. He should be a legitimate major league right fielder and has the potential to be a middle of the order hitter - though I'm far from certain he will ever get there. Its a cliche, yes, but you really can't teach bat speed like this. Even if Roache doesn't live up to his potential he should still end up one of the most coveted assets in baseball these days: a right handed power bat. When Theo Epstein traded Bronson Arroyo to the Reds for Wily Mo Pena this was the rationale often repeated among Boston sportswriters. Hey, I almost made it through this whole article without making the lazy Wily Mo comp! Given the light tower power and bat speed, you can see why teams would be all over Roache in a draft that looks a little short on elite position players. It’s a shame we won't get much of a chance to see Georgia Southern's games in the spring, but I'm still going to keep close tabs on Victor Roache

4) David Dahl:

8-9-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/allamerican/News.aspx?num=6107 - Dahl, who will be a senior this fall at Oak Mountain High School in Birmingham, Ala., will be in San Diego from Thursday through Sunday with 45 other top prospects in the class of 2012 to take part in the Perfect Game All-American Classic presented by Rawlings. Dahl is ranked the No. 13 top prospect overall and No. 3 outfield prospect in the country. He is one of three Alabama prospects on the All-American Classic East Team roster, joining right-hander/outfielder Jameis Winston from Hueytown and right-hander Tucker Simpson from Oxford.

8-25-11: - http://sullydraft.blogspot.com - This summer I went to the National Showcase, Prospect Classic, and the Under Armour All-American Game. Here is my updated top 50 HS prospects. - 23. David Dahl, OF, Oak Mountain HS

10-1-11: - http://mlbdraftguide.com/1/2011/10/01/david-dahl-2012-draft-profile - David Dahl has above average tools across the board and can play the game. Even after missing time during the summer due to illness, Dahl remains highly ranked by every scouting service. Dahl is advanced offensively, with a balanced level swing and quick hands. He has good bat speed and makes consistent contact. A line drive hitter, Dahl should add more home runs as he matures. He is aggressive on the bases, and, with his 6.5 spped, always a threat to steal. Dahl is one of the top defensive outfielders eligible for the 2012 draft. He complements his speed with a legitimate plus arm. When draft day arrives, Dahl is likely to be one of the first 20 names off the board.

5) Albert Almora –

6-24-10: - http://sullydraft.blogspot.com/2010/06/sneak-peak-2012-high-school-top-ten.html - After watching the Junior National Showcase at Tropicana Field. Here is my top ten list for the class of 2012. - 8. Albert Almora- OF, Mater Academy

Ranked #16 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-10-11 from http://www.draftsite.com/mlb/mock-draft/2012 - 17 Seattle Albert Almora OF Marion Christian Academy (FL)

6-21-11: - http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/high-school/2011/06/fulmer-shows-big-arm-at-tos-day-one - Albert Almora, an outfielder from Mater Academy in Hialeah, Fla., had a loose, easy swing in batting practice and went 2-for-4 with two walks and four runs in the first game of the day. He shows easy power and an ability to go the other way, but was bailing with his front foot during the game.

7-5-11: - http://diamondscapescouting.com/articles_2011_summercircuit_prospectclassic_07042011.html - Defensively, Albert Almora stood out among the high school outfielders, showing consistently impressive reads off of the bat. He has the foot speed to close on balls and utilizes his athleticism and body control to consistently finish, be it to the gaps, over his head or charging in. Addy Russell has a strong arm and soft hands, displaying both on a backhand stab on a one-hop linedrive to the third base line. An excellent athlete with a chance to play up the middle, he showed off his athleticism before game two of the series, performing standing backflips along the right field line during stretches

7-21-11: - http://www.mockdraftmania.com - 21. Pittsburgh Pirates Albert Almora OF Mater Christian High School Florida Albert Almora is a power hitter who can provide some pop. Almora would likely play right field for the Pirates. If the Pirates want to continue to build through the draft then they should draft Albert Almora. He’s the best player available and fills a major hole for the Pittsburgh Pirates because they need a bat who can compliment McCutchen at right field. Almora has 5 tool potential and can jump into right field. Alex Dickerson of Indiana could play left field or center field if Andrew McCutchen opts out of his contract in 2012.

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Albert Almora, Mater Academy, Hialeah FL, 6’1 1/2 175, R/R, smooth hitting OF with ave speed, quick bat with deceptive strength and power to LF alley, squares up ball well, runs well once underway, has arm strength and good instincts in CF.

9-1-11: - http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com - Albert Almora, Mater Academy, Hialeah FL, 6'1 1/2 175, R/R, smooth hitting OF with ave speed, quick bat with deceptive strength and power to LF alley, squares up ball well, runs well once underway, has arm strength and good instincts in CF.

6) Jesse Winkler –

6-24-10: - http://sullydraft.blogspot.com/2010/06/sneak-peak-2012-high-school-top-ten.html - After watching the Junior National Showcase at Tropicana Field. Here is my top ten list for the class of 2012. - 6. Jesse Winker- OF/LHP, Olympia HS

Ranked #86 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-28-11: - http://mlbdraftguide.com/1/2011/06/26/jesse-winker-2012-draft-profile - You hear stories about players growing up with a batting cage in their backyards. Jesse Winker is one of those players. The work in the cage has paid off as Winker is one of the top high school hitters eligible for the 2012 draft. Winker is a patient hitter with a solid approach at the plate. He has good power and drives the ball to all fields. WInker’s bat speed is excellent. In the field, Winker has a strong accurate arm that will play in right field. He gets good jumps on balls when they come off the bat. Winker shows up ready to play at every event in which he takes part. With his hard work and dedication, he is sure to stay high on draft boards

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Jesse Winker, Olympia HS, Orlando FL, 6’2 200 L/L, good approach to game as hitter and fielder, shows plus arm strength from RF, fair runner, 6.95, 60, has power in his bat, tends to be tentative in pitch selection, but when he squares up his has power to RF and LF alleys, needs to be more aggressive in his hitting approach.

9-1-11: - http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com - Jesse Winker, Olympia HS, Orlando FL, 6'2 200 L/L, good approach to game as hitter and fielder, shows plus arm strength from RF, fair runner, 6.95, 60, has power in his bat, tends to be tentative in pitch selection, but when he squares up his has power to RF and LF alleys, needs to be more aggressive in his hitting approach.

7) Travis Jankowski:

2011: All-America East first team selection ... named to ABCA All-Northeast Region second team ... started 53 games in centerfield ... did not make an error in 115 chances ... set Stony Brook single season record for steals in a season (30-for-34) ... was 14th in the nation in stolen bases ... ranked second in the America East with .355 batting average ... scored 39 runs and drove in 38 ... had 19 multi-hit games and 10 multi-RBI games ... went 5-for-11 (.455) in three-game series against No. 17 North Carolina (3/4-3/5) ... had career-high four hits in five at-bats against NJIT (3/18) ... drove in a then career-high three runs on March 22 against New York Tech ... went 2-for-5 with career-high four RBI against UMBC (4/23) ... went 4-for-5 with three RBI in season finale against Albany (5/25). - http://www.goseawolves.org/sports/m-basebl/mtt/jankowski_travis00.html

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Travis Jankowski, Stony Brook, 6’3 195 R/R, kind of player that grows on you, makes solid contact and runs very well, 6’5, 60 guy with plus arm strength, and raw strength to add more HR power once in pro ball. Sleeper to go in top 3 rounds in 2012.

8-17-11: - http://collegebaseball360.com/2011/08/16/jankowski-named-cape-cod-baseball-mvp - - Bourne’s General Manager Mike Carrier said thankfully Jankowski scored a chance on the Cape because a former Brave’s assistant was working with Jankowski at Stony Brook. When current field manager, Harvey Shapiro, started calling around looking for good players, he found the 6-2, 190 pound outfielder. The ballplayer from Lancaster, Penn., played well from start to finish. The numbers do not lie. He was made a Cape League All-Star for the Western Division because of it. Jankowski finished one of the top ten hitters and base stealers in the league. He batted .326 with 22 RBIs, 60 hits, 35 runs and a .444 OBP.

8) Lewis Brinson:

8-15-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/8/14/2362719/2011-under-armour-all-america-game-top-10-prospects - 2011 Under Armour All America Game Top 10 Prospects - 4. Lewis Brinson 2012 OF 6'4 180 Tamarac, FL Coral Springs - Brinson has a ton of tools. He is really skinny, but has a big frame and should be able to add some strength. He already has good batting practice power and it should come in games with time. He is raw but he was one of the best players at the game.

9) Anthony Alford –

Ranked #84 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

8-15-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/8/14/2362719/2011-under-armour-all-america-game-top-10-prospects - 2011 Under Armour All America Game Top 10 Prospects - 8. Anthony Alford 2012 OF 6'1 212 Petal, MS Petal - Alford is a massive player. He is built like a rock and looks like a future power hitter. He has a good apporoach and even went the other way in one at bat. He has a strong arm and will likely be a RF and should have the skills to be a good one, as long as he chooses baseball over football.

10) Courtney Hawkins:

9-1-11: - http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com - Courtney Hawkins from Corp Christi Carrol HS, Texas, 6'2 220, R/R, I've seen many times as a Dh and RHP, he's more of an athlete that is best suited to play the OF or potentially 1B in pro ball. Athletic build with strong shoulders and straight away speed, tends to lunge as a hitter which is not easily corrected, when he does square up the ball at the plate he has power and runs well once underway and shows near ML ave arm strength from the OF. He's a 2012, just a follow for me now or late 13-20 round type guy. Very rough around the edges.

11) Tyler Naquin

5-12-11: - http://www.kbtx.com/sports/headlines/Naquin_Selected_to_USA_Baseball_Collegiate_National_Team_121728559.html - The Big 12’s leading hitter is the newest selection to the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team as Thursday is was announced that Texas A&M sophomore outfielder Tyler Naquin would be a part of the team for the upcoming summer. Throughout the 2011 campaign, Naquin has been one of the nation’s top hitters and currently leads the Big 12 Conference and ranks in the top 15 nationally with a .414 batting average. Entering this weekend’s Nebraska series the A&M right fielder owns a 25-game hitting streak which is the third longest ever by an Aggie and just three games off the school record of 28 set in 1972 by R.J. Englert. The Spring, Texas, native has 23 multi-hit games this season while leading the Big 12 in runs scored with 49. Having started all but one of Texas A&M’s contests this spring, Naquin ranks first on the Aggies with 37 RBI and has also hit 16 doubles and six triples to rank among the top five in the Big 12 in both categories.

6-15-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=5887 - OF Tyler Naquin, Texas A&M -- Naquin certainly doesn't have the same type of power as other guys on this list, but he's easily the most consistent hitter of the bunch. The versatile outfielder is hitting .390 with 23 doubles, seven triples, two home runs and 44 RBIs. He also has recorded 101 singles and has a .556 slugging percentage with a .460 OBP. Naquin has struck out 33 times and walked on 29 occasions this season.

6-15-11: - http://collegebaseball360.com/2011/06/15/ncbwa-college-baseball-all-american-teams - NCBWA Division I All-America Team - THIRD TEAM - OF *Tyler Naquin, Texas A&M, So. .390 65 259 65 101 23-7-2 44 29 33 6/13

6-20-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series#/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series/page/ - Without a doubt, the Aggies top offensive player this season was OF Tyler Naquin, who could be a very interesting prospect on draft day next year. Naquin was a 33rd-round pick of Baltimore’s back in ’09, but honored his commitment to A&M, where he blossomed into one of the best hitters in the Big-12 this season. In 65 games, he hit .390 with a team-leading 23 doubles, seven triples and 65 runs. He also hit two home runs, drove in 44 runs, posted a 29:33 BB:K ratio and swiped six bases.

6-30-11 - http://www.collegebaseballdaily.com/2011/06/30/team-usa-defeats-new-bedford-7-5 - Tyler Naquin (Texas A&M) hit two home runs and drove in five to lead the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team to a 7-5 win over New Bedford Wednesday night at Paul Walsh Field. Naquin’s home runs were the first of the summer for the Collegiate National Team, which finished its tour of the New England Collegiate Baseball League Wednesday. Team USA is 5-1 as it heads to play in Gastonia, N.C., on Thursday. Naquin, who led off the Team USA lineup as the team’s starting right fielder, tallied his first shot, a three-run home run, by lining a pitch over the right field fence off New Bedford starter Blaine O’Brian in the second inning. It drove in David Lyon (Kent State) and Michael Lorenzen (Cal State Fullerton) and gave Team USA a 3-0 lead.

7-9-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=6002 - Tyler Naquin, OF, Texas A&M - Naquin and former Aflac All-American Krey Bratsen formed a formidable duo for the Aggies last spring, who like the Longhorns, were ushered out of the College World Series much more quickly than either team hailing from Texas would have liked to have seen. Naquin, a left-handed hitter, has very good bat speed and easy power potential, drilling one fastball earlier in the week the opposite way high off the wall at Durham Bulls Athletic Park for a double.

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Tyler Naquin, Texas A&M, 6’2 175, L/L, string bean with solid arm strength, ability to hit and with occ HR power, as he matures could add more HR frequency, right now more of a contact hitter, who tends to reach for pitches with his aggressiveness

12) Jameis Winston:

5-2-11: - He is top 10 prospects for some based on potential and closer to 100 for others based on pro readiness. He has the potential to be a top draft pick but he is raw right now. Two sport stars are typically more raw than single sport stars, but the athleticism that he offers could allow him to vault up in the draft if someone sees him as a star, especially a team that could get him to commit solely to baseball. I don't have a set ranking for 2012 yet, but I would say he would be between 30th and 40th in the prep ranks for me. He is playing well this season batting .475 with 4 HR's in 40 AB. He generates a lot of power at the plate with his long, lean frame. He projects as a potential 5 tool CF with time and polish. On the mound, he has a mid to upper 80's fastball and curveball that flashes signs of an above average pitch. He could be an interesting two-way player at FSU, but I think his future is in center field. Taking on playing QB, CF and pitching at FSU might be too much for one player but with his skills, I can't say that he couldn't do it.

13) Jeremy Baltz

Ranked #26 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-10-11 from http://www.draftsite.com/mlb/mock-draft/2012 - 29 St. Louis Jeremy Baltz OF St. John's 6' 3" 205

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Jeremy Baltz, St John’s, 6’3 205, R/R, one of better hitters on paper with tools, didn’t have great 2011 as he did in 2010, adjusted to new bats, but came on late this year. Shows ability to play either OF corner and has strong enough arm for RF, runs well underway, not a base stealing threat, 8-15 type HR power frequency, 4-7 type round candidate for 2012.

8-14-11: - http://mlbdraftguide.com/1/2011/08/10/the-good-the-disappointing-from-the-cape - Jeremy Baltz, OF, St. John’s- With only so much time in my day, Right Field Fog is my only daily stop for Cape League news. The name Jeremy Baltz seemed to pop up in their daily recaps, well, almost daily. He put up a .321/.436/.457 line for the season and made the All-Star Team. Baltz has gotten some mention as a first round pick and his summer only helped his chances.

14) Jacob Stewart –

2-21-11: - http://bullpenbanter.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=387:college-baseball-weekend1&catid=18:articles&Itemid=11 - Player: Jake Stewart College: Stanford University Position: Center Field Bats/Throws: R/R Showed ability to go with a pitch, hitting multiple balls on the outer half of the plate to right field A lot of speed; stretched a single into a double Showed some ability to be patient, but his pitch recognition was poor, causing him to chase breaking balls out of the zone Poor throw to home from center. Hopped at least 3 times and was off target

Ranked #22 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-10-11 from http://www.draftsite.com/mlb/mock-draft/2012 - 23 Texas Jacob Stewart OF Stanford 6' 2" 200

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Jake Stewart, Stanford, 6’2 190, R/R, good athlete with very good speed and ave arm strength, 250 type hitter with occ HR power, was some buzz about him being considered early 1-3 round type guy, but for me, he’s a 13-20 guy at best

7-21-11: - http://www.mockdraftmania.com - 26. San Francisco Giants Jake Stewart OF Stanford Jake Stewart is an outfielder for Stanford. His dad James played baseball at Virginia Tech before being a minor league player for the Minnesota Twins. His high school team won 3 straight state championships before being drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 14th round following high school. He won state championships in 2007 and 2008 while playing football and basketball in high school. Williams had a .511 batting average during his senior year of high school. Stewarts batting average peaked from .209 to .287 as a sophomore at Stanford. He should bat over .300 in 2012 possibly eclipsing the .350 batting average mark. Jake Stewart had 16 multi hit games and 5 consecutive multi hit games. Stewart got 3 hits against a Vanderbilt pitching rotation that was extremely deep with MLB talent in 2011.

15) Adam Brett Walker

Ranked #29 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-10-11 from http://www.draftsite.com/mlb/mock-draft/2012 - 28 Boston Adam Brett-Walker OF Jacksonville 6' 5" 225

6-15-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=5896 - Perfect Game College All-Americans - (Adam Brett) Walker jumped on the scene as a freshman last year and took another step forward as a sophomore this season. He batted a team-high .411 with 23 doubles, two triples, 13 home runs and 75 RBIs. He also slugged .685 and had a .486 OBP. Walker walked 34 times and was a perfect 14-for-14 in stolen bases.

8-14-11: - http://mlbdraftguide.com/1/2011/08/10/the-good-the-disappointing-from-the-cape - Adam Brett Walker, OF/1B, Jacksonville University- Fresh off an All-American season for Jacksonville, Walker arrived at the Cape with alot of momentum. He stalled out this summer, posting a .216/.271/.336 line and topping the league with 56 strikeouts.

16) Josh Henderson:

17) Brandon Thomas –

Ranked #95 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-23-11: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - Georgia Tech SO OF Brandon Thomas | .322/.434/.449 – 38 BB/40 K – 20/23 SB – 205 AB - It’s easy to see why Thomas has drawn favorably comparisons (by me) to former Georgia Tech outfielders Charlie Blackmon and Danny Payne. A quick rundown of his biggest positives: above-average range in a corner spot, an arm strong enough for right field, good speed that he knows how to use, gap power with a chance for more, excellent athleticism, and a pro ready body (6-3, 205 pounds). It can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint a good prospect a year ahead of the draft, but tools like that combined with really strong production at an outstanding college program make this whole prognostication thing a lot easier.

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Brandon Thomas, Ga Tech, 6’3 210, R/R, tearing up the Cape this summer, has solid hitting tools and gap power, runs well for size and enough arm strength to play either OF corner. Could be 1-3 Rounder in 2012!

18) Rhett Wiseman:

9-1-11: - http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com - Rhett Wiseman, Buckingham Browne & Nichols Schools, Mansfield MA, 6' 195 L/R, gamer with some bat speed, stiff back when he hits and throws, runs better underway, lack of fluid actions bother me, but has strength in his swing and throwing arm to watch again. May just be a solid college player in the long run, but worth a follow.

9-27-11: - http://mlbdraftguide.com/1/2011/09/27/rhett-wiseman-2012-draft-profile - A power/speed combination in centerfield, Rhett Wiseman is often compared to Johnny Damon. Wiseman has a short quick swing and squares up on the ball well. A pull hitter with some loft, he has plus bat speed and good power potential. Wiseman runs a 6.51 60 and is dangerous on the basepaths. Wiseman shows good actions in centerfield and has been improving defensively. His speed allows him to cover plenty of ground and while he lacks a cannon, his arm is accurate and playable in center. Wiseman plays all out on every play, both in the field and on the bases. He is the type of player that fans and coaches will love.

19) Vahn Bozoian:

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Vahn Bozoian, Ayala HS, Chino Hills CA, 6’4 200, R/R, gamer with great baseball actions, runs well underway, just ave stop watch times, throws well from RF, has type of slashing power to hit 15-20 HR at pro level. Sets up and fields well. Gets most out of his ability. Potential early rounder in 2012.

9-1-11: - http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com - Vahn Bozoian, Ayala HS, Chino Hills CA, 6'4 200, R/R, gamer with great baseball actions, runs well underway, just ave stop watch times, throws well from RF, has type of slashing power to hit 15-20 HR at pro level. Sets up and fields well. Gets most out of his ability. Potential early rounder in 2012.

20) Walker Weichel –

Ranked #19 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-10-11 from http://www.draftsite.com/mlb/mock-draft/2012 - 18 Florida Walker Weichel OF Olympia High School (FL) 6' 6" 200

21) Zeke DeVoss

Player: Zeke DeVoss College: University of Miami Position: Left Field Bats/Throws: S/R Height/Weight: 5'10" / 170 lbs. Short, athletic frame Very patient approach at the plate; took walks of 5 & 6 pitches where he didn't swing at a pitch Good speed that he used aggressively on the base paths; stole 2 bases on the night Uses speed to cover plenty of ground in left field Good arm strength

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Zeke DeVoss, Miami, 5’9 1/2 170, L/L, gets on base, makes solid contact, 270 type hitter with fair power at best, good instincts and jumps in CF, enough arm to stick there, will goes as far as bat takes him. 4-7 round type guy at best for me.

22) Robert Refsnyder

Arizona sophomore OF Robert Refsnyder‘s batting average has not dipped below .318 since the opening week of the year; he has hovered in the .340+ range for most of that time; his weekly stat-line of 6-for-15 (.400) with 1 2B, 2 3B’s, 2 HR’s, and 8 RBI’s has been fairly typical for Refsnyder each week (minus the multiple dingers); this past week he showed emerging power that he has only flashed sporadically throughout the season; if the power continues to develop more consistently, Refsnyder will have to be talked about as a potential top 10 pick in the 2012 MLB Draft… http://www.prospectnation.com/blog/?p=695

23) Logan Vick

2-21-11: - http://bullpenbanter.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=387:college-baseball-weekend1&catid=18:articles&Itemid=11 - Player: Logan Vick College: Baylor University Position: Left Field Bats/Throws: L/R - Worked the count well, fouling off tough pitches and earning a walk Tremendous range in left field

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Logan Vick, Baylor, 5’11 185, L/R, scrappy player who gives 100%, has fair arm strength and solid base running speed, makes enough contact to be 4th type OF at ML level with occ 5-8 type HR power frequency. 8-12 round type.

24) Beau Amaral

3-21-11:- http://bullpenbanter.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=402:college-baseball-weekend-06-observations&catid=18:articles&Itemid=11 - Player: Beau Amaral College: University of California, Los Angeles Position: Center Fielder Bats/Throws: L/L Height/Weight: 5'11" / 185 lbs - Average height, strong thighs, room to add weight to upper half Worked count well; taking pitches and fouling off others; frequently worked deep counts and found way to get on base Active on the base paths and utilizes speed well Excellent range in center field; robbed ball on the warning track with diving catch Doesn't utilize lower half well on his swing; not much present strength

25) Frenelys Sanchez:

- Ranked #53 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

8-15-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/8/14/2362719/2011-under-armour-all-america-game-top-10-prospects - 2011 Under Armour All America Game Top 10 Prospects - 9. Fernelys Sanchez 2012 OF 6'3 192 New York, NY George Washington - Sanchez got hit in the back to end the game but did very much to impress me in the game. He is very fast, top of the scale speed. He has a very good arm and has a projectable bat. He could be the best prospect in this game if he fulfills his potential.

26) Joey Rickard –

Ranked #67 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

8-14-11: - http://mlbdraftguide.com/1/2011/08/10/the-good-the-disappointing-from-the-cape - Joey Rickard, OF, Arizona- Rickard was one of my personal favorites coming out of Bishop Gorman in 2009. He was an All-Star at the Cape this summer and put up a line of .311/.382/.392 with 14 steals in 17 attempts.

27) Tyler Gaffney

Ranked #91 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Tyler Gaffney, Stanford, 6’ 210, R/R, very strong hitter with HR power, runs well for size, playable arm strength, fair fielder, will need further development to be considered a 4th OF candidate at ML level, 8-12 round type.

9-23-11: - http://www.mercurynews.com/breaking-news/ci_18966525 - When Stanford's baseball team lost to North Carolina in the NCAA super regionals this summer, (Tyler) Gaffney was riding a 22-game hitting streak—the program's fifth-longest since 1988—and it will carry into the 2012 season. The left fielder batted .327 with three home runs and 35 RBIs, and was second on the team with 42 runs scored. He drew a team-leading 29 walks and hit 10 doubles and five triples. As soon as Stanford was eliminated, it immediately became time to switch gears to football.

28) Rock Rucker –

Ranked #130 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-28-11: - http://mlbdraftguide.com/1/2011/06/27/rock-rucker-2012-draft-profile - Rock Rucker is a legitimate 2 way prospect for the 2012 draft, a lefthander with a power arm and a power bat. He is a good athlete who has improved his game consistently. Rucker has a smooth swing with plus bat speed. He has plus raw power and good speed for his size (6.82-60). In the outfield, Rucker has solid range and a strong arm. He gets good jumps on contact and takes good routes. On the mound, Rucker’s fastball gets to 91 and he projects to add more velocity. His curveball is a potential plus pitch.

29) Kamm Washington –

Ranked #135 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

30) Cody Keefer –

Ranked #145 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

8-9-11: - http://www.collegebaseballdaily.com/2011/08/09/cape-cod-baseball-league-players-of-the-week-august-9th - 2011 Cape League All-Star Cody Keefer (UCLA) has been named this week’s Player of the Week. Ramsey has homered twice and driven in four runs in eight playoff at-bats to help Y-D sweep Orleans in the first round of the Cape League playoffs. In the week leading up to the playoffs, Keefer failed to record a hit in only one game, and recorded multiple hits in two out of the four games. Keefer is a sophomore at UCLA, where he batted over .300 in each of his two seasons as a Bruin. He was a 33rd round draft pick by the Detroit Tigers in the 2009 Major League Baseball Draft.

31) Evan Marzilli –

3-7-11: - http://bullpenbanter.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=390:college-baseball-weekend-03-observations&catid=18:articles&Itemid=11 - Player: Evan Marzilli College: University of South Carolina Position: Left Field Bats/Throws: L/L Height/Weight: 5'11" / 180 lbs. Loads back foot well with a direct path to the ball Approach was just OK; started bat early and took quite a few balls with a check swing Got behind in the count often, but usually managed to battle back in the AB

Ranked #148 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-20-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series#/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series/page/9 - OF Evan Marzilli exploded onto the scene as a freshman, hitting .385 in 91 at-bats. He came on strong as the season progressed and was named to the CWS All-Tournament Team after hitting .370 with seven runs scored in Omaha. And he was the Gamecock’s best hitter throughout the NCAA tournament, hitting .417. And in USC’s two-game sweep of UCLA, Marzilli went 4-for-9 with an RBI. Marzilli just about defines the term “spark-plug.” He was a central piece of USC’s SEC co-championship squad in 2011, hitting .299 with 12 doubles, two triples and 36 runs.

32) Andrew Aplin

6-12-11: - http://bullpenbanter.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=392:college-baseball-weekend-04-observations&catid=18:articles&Itemid=11 - Player: Andrew Aplin College: Arizona State University Position: Center Field Bats/Throws: L/L Height/Weight: 5'11" / 189 lbs. Small frame with some room to fill out Extends arms well Turned on inside fastball to hit hard line drive into RF gap for a double Hit another hard line drive right at the right fielder Got a good jump and stole second base relatively easily Excellent arm strength on a throw to the plate

33) Tarran Senay –

Ranked #170 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

6-23-11: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - North Carolina State SO OF Tarran Senay | .271/.401/.388 – 26 BB/38 K – 0/1 SB – 129 AB - Senay is probably the least toolsy of the outfielders listed, so the “bat or bust” risk factor typified by future first basemen/left fielders is magnified. Injuries knocked his numbers down in 2011 (check his freshman season line: .304/.456/.571 – 28 BB/29 K – 112 AB), but the plus raw power keeps him squarely on the 2012 draft map.

34) Mike Yastremski –

Ranked #173 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

5-2-11: - http://bullpenbanter.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=413:college-baseball-weekend-11-observations&catid=18:articles&Itemid=11 –

Average height; athletic with a very projectable body

Employs a patient approach and works the count well

Quick bat with plenty of present contact ability.

Good speed

Showcased a strong accurate arm in right field

6-11-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=5869 -

Player of the game: OF Mike Yazstrzemski, Vanderbilt -- The Commodores had a huge night at the plate and Yazstrzemski led the charge. The talented outfielder went 2-for-4 with a home run, two runs scored and four RBIs. It's also worth noting third baseman Jason Esposito went 2-for-4 with a home run, two runs scored and three RBIs.

6-17-11: - http://baseballdraftreport.com SO OF Michael Yastrzemski (2012) | .311/.445/.388 – 44 BB/35 K – 23/26 SB – 206 AB - After already typing Michael Yastrzemski’s last name out incorrectly more than a few times, I can appreciate the first brilliant person who called his more famous grandfather “Yaz.” The younger Yaz is another five-tool talent, though more of a speed/defense/leadoff hitter type than his more powerful outfield wingman Connor Harrell. I swear it isn’t because of the similarly impressive lineage (or at least not only because), but I think of Michael Yastrzemski as a similar ballplayer as Orioles eighth round pick Johnny Ruettiger.

6-20-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series#/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series/page/5 - Speedy OF Mike Yastrzemski will likely be a day-one pick and should be a major catalyst for Vandy next year. He had a breakout season this year, hitting an even .300 with 42 RBI and 22 steals. He also showed an incredible eye at the plate, notching seven more walks (43) than strikeouts (36). He should easily eclipse all of those numbers next year as he continues to grow and mature. And yes, he is related to Carl Yastrzemski. Mike is his nephew.

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Mike Yazstremski, Vandy, 5’11 175, L/L, scrappy player with great bloodlines, makes solid contact and adjustments to be quality hitter at ML level, occ HR power, not a threat to hit HR, plays adequate defense and enough overall tools to be 4th OF at ML level.

35) Chaz Frank

6-14-11: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - SO OF Chaz Frank (2012) | .287/.430/.349 – 43 BB/27 K – 11/14 SB – 209 AB - There may not be a whole lot of raw power here, but Frank has a good approach, above-average speed, and a solid hit tool. His best present tool is probably his defensive range in the outfield

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Chaz Frank, UNC-Chapel Hill, 5’10 165 L/L, strong throwing arm and plus hitter with occ power the other way or pull to foul line, can run once underway, will go as far as bat takes him. 13-20 round type guy.

36) Connor Harrell

6-17-11: - http://baseballdraftreport.com SO OF Connor Harrell (2012) | .288/.354/.492 – 13 BB/38 K – 7/7 SB – 177 AB - As a legit five-tool player with pro size teetering on the edge of solid defensive center fielder and plus defensive corner outfielder, Harrell has a little Mikie Mahtook in his game. That probably won’t be the only time I use the Mahtook comp this upcoming year — Stanford’s Jake Stewart is another player cut from a similar toolsy free wheeling tweener cloth — and it isn’t the most instructive comparison in the world, but it is both a point of reference for Harrell’s style of play and a way to share my generally positive view of what I think he is capable of doing next spring. I’m a huge fan of Harrell’s plus arm, good range, well above-average raw power, and opportunistic ways on the base paths. If he can turn those ugly plate discipline ratios around, he’ll vault close to the top of the 2012 college outfield class.

6-20-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series#/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series/page/5 - Of the players who will become draft-eligible next year, OF Connor Harrell leads the way. An incredible athlete that has a ton of raw power, Harrell got he chance to play regularly in 2011 and responded well, hitting seven home runs in 60 games. He struck out a good amount (43 in 185 ABs) but also showed great instincts on the basepaths, swiping seven bases in the same number of tries. Harrell made headlines last year with his 10th-inning suicide squeeze bunt that drove in the game-winning run in Vandy’s regional victory over Louisville. With Joe Loftus and Aaron Westlake moving on, the Commodores will have to find a way to get Harrell’s bat into the lineup.

37) Regan Flaherty

6-17-11: - http://baseballdraftreport.com SO OF Regan Flaherty (2012) - Never bet against a Flaherty, I always say. Actually I’ve never said that before just now, but it’s still true. The biggest problem facing Flaherty heading into next season will be finding playing time in a crowded Commodores outfield; he could see some time at first or designated hitter to get his bat in the lineup.

38) Trey Williams

6-18-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=5907 - There were quite a few hitters that stood out during batting practice on the second day of the 2011 Perfect Game National Showcase. Saugus, California's Trey Williams was one of those hitters, lacing line drives all over the field while sending a laser over the fence in deep left-center. But it was one swing during the games played in the afternoon that really caught the attention of the crowd, fans and scouting personnel alike. That pitch was a high fastball that caught the outside corner of the plate, a pitch that Williams reached out and drilled deep to right-center. Even to an untrained eye, that home run was special, as displayed by the buzz that quickly took over City of Palms Park

39) Reed Gragnani

6-23-11: - http://baseballdraftreport.com - Virginia SO OF Reed Gragnani | .293/.410/.361 – 19 BB/13 K – 1/3 SB – 133 AB - A little bit of Gragnani appreciation written by me (though with too much information lifted from here…I feel bad about that, so sorry Mr. Kolenich…I’ve gotten better at attributing sources since then) prior to his freshman year… FR SS Reed Gragnani (2012) is yet another talented young prospect expected to see significant time in a loaded Virginia infield. His game right now revolves largely around his well above-average speed, excellent athleticism, and impressive range up the middle, but he is no slouch with the bat either. Early comps include Brian Roberts (if he develops as is) and Ryan Zimmerman (if he bulks up and gains power). Gragnani’s brother, Robbie, grew four inches during his college tenure at Virginia Commonwealth, so that Ryan Zimmerman developmental path isn’t totally out of the question. That’s not to say that the only thing standing in the way between Gragnani and future big league All-Star status is a couple of inches and some muscle, but he’s a good player with high round talent all the same. I still believe in Gragnani as a middle infielder, but also think he has the tools to play a mean center field if given the chance. I also still believe in his bat. While it is true that his power hasn’t come on like many (myself included) had hoped, he still has the chance to hit for a high average and gap power at the next level.

40) Brandon Wood:

41) Cohl Walla:

6-20-11: - http://bleacherreport.com/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series#/articles/740905-omaha-eye-openers-2012-mlb-draft-prospects-at-the-2011-college-world-series/page/4 - OF Cohl Walla was supposed to be a breakout star this year, but instead, he finished the season very poorly, with a .231 average, zero home runs and only 18 RBI in 49 games. He struck out way too much (40 K in 143 ABs) and stole only three bases all season. Last year he showed much more potential, hitting .316 with 12 doubles, eight homers, 41 RBI and 14 steals. Walla is very athletic and will no doubt go higher than his 43rd-round selection back in ’09, but if he doesn’t have a strong bounce-back season in 2012, he won’t have much of a future as anything other than an organizational player.

42) Jarret DeHart:

7-6-11: - http://www.prospectwire.com/pw/article.php?id=268 - Jarret DeHart, OF, 2013, Medford, NJ - Bobby Valentine All American (Northeast Team) - This New Jersey-native hits in the middle of the lineup for the Bobby Valentine All American Travel Team. Another left-handed hitter that takes healthy cuts, DeHart has a short stroke and good batspeed that allows him to catch up to any velocity that he faces. DeHart looks to drive the ball deep, and has some natural lift in his swing. At 6'2/205, the outfielder is not much of a burner, but is a corner guy with an accurate arm and a big bat.

43) Erik Dowse:

7-6-11: - http://www.prospectwire.com/pw/article.php?id=268 - Erik Dowse, OF, 2013, Valrico, FL - Ostingers Baseball (Central FL Team) - Dowse is a fast twitch athlete with some pretty good tools across the board. Off the mound, he's been up to 86mph, he's a 7.0/7.1 type runner, and he has offensive juice. All pretty impressive for a rising junior who still has 2 years to refine and improve upon that skillset. At 5'11/170, Dowse will likely not be a huge guy, but he has strength and athleticism that easily allows him to play a corner OF spot at the D1 level - likely RF with his arm strength.

44) Rante Baker:

7-6-11: - http://www.prospectwire.com/pw/article.php?id=268 - Rante' Baker, OF, 2013, Immokalee, FL - N/A - (South FL Team) - The 5'9/160 pound athlete was the lone bright spot at an Immokalee HS team in transition. As a sophomore the speedy Baker hit 3-hole and hit .345. More of a leadoff/9 hole type of guy, Baker shows a knack for getting the ball in play and using his speed to make things happen. The 2-way star also plays wide receiver on the football team, where he has been clocked in the 4.5 range in the 40. With the game of baseball transitioning away from the steroid era, and BBCOR bats limiting homeruns in college, speedy guys like Baker will play a bigger role in years to come.

45) Devin Harrison:

6-30-11: - http://www.prospectwire.com/pw/article.php?id=268 - Devin Harrison, OF, 2013, Tucson, AZ - 520 Elite (West Team) - The 6'0/170 pound Harrison can do a little bit of everything. While none of his tools are "plus" at this time, he was one of the more well-rounded players at the 2011 PW West Coast Finals in Scottsdale. Harrison combines a 7.0 60 with solid arm strength and some good hitting tools that allowed him to swing an impact bat during the Memorial Weekend tournament.

46) Cameron Strickland:

6-30-11: - http://www.prospectwire.com/pw/article.php?id=268 - Cameron Strickland, OF/C, 2013, Knoxville, TN - Diamond - Simcox (Midwest Team) - The 6'2/175 pound Strickland is well put-together and has an outstanding frame for added weight and strength gains. Strickland couples a live arm, with near-plus speed and a knack for hitting. Strickland has outstanding experience on big stages playing for a loaded powerhouse high school like Farragut, and playing up at the 18U level during summer ball in the leadoff spot for Diamond-Simcox based out of Tennessee.

47) Ron Miller:

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Ron Miller, Serra HS, Los Angeles CA, 5’10 210 R/R, plays 3b, best shot to play LF at pro level, short compact power stroke with ability to go the other way, shows arm strength and fair running speed, enough ability offensively to get to pro level, will go as far as bat takes him. Kevin Mitchell type comp from the early 80’s.

9-1-11: - http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com - Ron Miller, Serra HS, Los Angeles CA, 5'10 210 R/R, plays 3b, best shot to play LF at pro level, short compact power stroke with ability to go the other way, shows arm strength and fair running speed, enough ability offensively to get to pro level, will go as far as bat takes him. Kevin Mitchell type comp from the early 80's.

48) Andrew Mendenhall:

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Andrew Mendenhall, Oregon, 6’3 200 R/R, good physical presence, has arm strength and leg speed, not a base stealer, has power to straight away and enough contact ability to be considered 4-7 round type draft in 2012.

49) Cal Towey:

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Cal Towey, Baylor, 6’1 200, L/R, one of better hitters in Cape this summer, has good approach and occ power with wood, hits the ball the other way, would like to see more pull for power strength, throws well, can play either OF corner well enough to be contributor at ML level, 8-12 type round pick for 2012, also can play IF, 3b mostly.

50) Darrell Mathews:

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Darrell Mathews, Cal, 5’9 165, L/L, scrappy player with solid speed, occ base stealing threat, slap type hitter who plays CF well, adequate arm strength and range, question will be strength and bat strength, 13-20 round type guy.

51) Joey Rickard:

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Joey Rickard, Arizona, 6’1 180, R/R, runs well underway, 6.55, 60 guy, throws adequate, solid range, makes contact, short stroke with occ alley power, doubles type guy, could be quality 4th OF in time, 8-12 round type.

52) Mason Katz

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Mason Katz, LSU, 5’11 190, R/R, scrappy hitter with decent running ability, throws well enough to play any OF position, ability to make contact as a hitter is his strength and plays hard. 8-12 round type guy.

53) Blake Brown:

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Blake Brown, Missouri, 6’1 185, R/R, runs well and aggressive as hitter, strikes out a lot, needs to shorten swing and utilize his speed, throws ok and shows good range in OF.

54) Dan Gulbransen:

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Dan Gulbransen, Jacksonville, 5’11 200, L/L, short compact swing as hitter with HR power to RF alley, can go the other way for extra base hits, throws adequate to be solid LF corner guy or 4th utility OF, runs well enough but not a threat to steal many bases, good base running ability however.

55) Dario Pizzano:

7-19-11: - http://www.mlbbonusbaby.com/2011/6/29/2250656/early-look-at-2012#comments - Dario Pizzano, Columbia, 5’11 L/R, solid hitter with occ power, gap type power for extra bases, 40 arm and 40 runner, gamer with good instincts and a baseball diamond rat, just enough ability to get to ML level perhaps, 13-20 round type guy.

56) Kevin Connolly:

8-28-11: - http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=6178 - It’s not often that a young prospect’s first experience with a Perfect Game event comes on what is arguably PG’s biggest stage. Guess it’s safe to say top outfield prospect Kevin Connolly doesn’t think small. Connolly, a 6-1, 185-pound senior at Omaha Creighton Prep, was at Perfect Game Field at Veterans Memorial Stadium – home of the Class A Midwest League Cedar Rapids Kernels – Saturday to participate in the 13th annual Perfect Game Midwest Top Prospect Showcase. The PG Midwest Underclass is being held in conjunction with the Midwest Top Saturday and Sunday. A right-handed hitter, Connolly is Perfect Game’s No. 1-ranked prospect in the state of Nebraska and the 285th nationally. He received a favorable scouting report and a 9.5 rating (out of a possible 10) at the National, and was hoping to ratchet his rating up to a perfect 10 this weekend. He took part in the outfield throw workout Saturday morning, and took BP and played in a game Saturday afternoon.

57) Keon Barnum:

58) Steven Golden:

59) Brian Adams –

Ranked #33 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

60) Jeff Gelalich - Ranked #54 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

61) Mitch Haniger - Ranked #80 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

62) Max White - Ranked #113 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

63) Colton Bottomley - Ranked #114 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

64) Torston Boss - Ranked #127 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

65) Krey Bratsen:

Ranked #175 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation – http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

10-7-11: - http://ht.ly/1f1C6v - We continue the countdown today with number 96 with Texas A&M sophomore outfielder Krey Bratsen. He checks in at 6’0 and 175 pounds out of Bryan, Texas where he attended Bryan High School. Bratsen had an outstanding career which saw him win four letters while bringing the team to the state playoffs in each season. The Oakland Athletics selected him in the 45th round of the 2010 MLB Draft but he decided to continue his baseball career at Texas A&M. Bratsen stepped right into the Aggies lineup as a freshman in 2011 playing in all 69 games while finishing second on the team with a .332 batting average. He chipped in with 36 RBI but his most impressive role is his speed. He led the squad with 31 stolen bases in 40 attempts which ended up being the second best in the Big 12 conference. He was named a member of the All-Big 12 team while picking up multiple Freshman All-American awards. Krey played the summer of 2011 in the Cape Cod Baseball League with the Cotuit Kettleers after helping the Aggies advance to the College World Series. He played in 23 games hitting .250 with two RBI and stealing six bases.

66) Jabari Henry - Ranked #178 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

67) Mike Vinson

Ranked #198 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

68) Michael Faulkner - Ranked #161 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

69) Mathew Goodson - Ranked #165 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

70) Matt Olsen - Ranked #168 in the 2012 Prospects List compiled by the All-American Athletic Foundation - http://allamericanfoundation.pointstreaksites.com/view/allamericanfoundation/news/mlb-2012-draft

71) Ted Blackman:

9-12-11: - http://www.collegesummerbaseball.net/2011/09/top-20-position-players-in-florida.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter - In the six-team Florida Collegiate Summer League this summer, the Sanford River Rats downed the Winter Park Diamond Dawgs to earn them the title of FCSL Champions. Individually, there were at least 25 position players that turned in great seasons. Unfortunately, I had to narrow the list down to the top 20. - 1. Ted Blackman OF Winter Park--Coastal Carolina - Ted, a 6-0/190 pound switch-hitter really made a name for himself this summer while patrolling the Diamond Dawgs outfield. He led the league with a .425 batting average and had an unreal .582 on base percentage. He also led the league with 37 walks. Ted was second in the league with 38 runs scored and 28 stolen bases as well. He showed some pop at the plate (3 hr's) and he hit 10 home runs on the season. During a 10-game stretch in late June/early July, he went 16/35 and drove in 9 runners. He was named the MVP of the league and Perfect Game named him to their Third Team-All American List. Perfect Game ranked him as the 5th best prospect in the league, and Baseball America tabbed him as the 2nd best prospect in the league.

72) Brett Knief:

73) DeSean Thomas:

9-1-11: - http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com - DeSean Thomas, Canterbury HS, St Pete FL, 6'2 220, R/R, another athletic kid who can really run in the open and shows solid power to LF alley when he squares up, seemed to make adjustments, can hit the fb and has some trouble with off-speed but should adapt with more exposure and coaching. Shows near ave ML arm strength, but ran 4.25 from Right side and athletic with great body to intrigue. Also one of top WR recruits for football. Best shot is in the oF, has played 1b, 3b, also pitches, will touch 86-87 with fb, all arm during delivery.

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10/15/11

2012 Draft: - The Top 73 Outfielders in the Draft

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