3/20/14

A Quick Look - SS Trae Turner - NC State

    

          Trae Turner

5-23-13 - Trea Turner has taken a long path to likely top 10 pick and possible #1 overall pick in the 2014 MLB Draft. He was a little-known late riser as a senior from a south Florida high school that passed on a six figure offer from the Pirates as a 20th round pick. I talked to him earlier this season after a solid game early in his return from an ankle injury. He described how he knew he was just a physically weaker, slap-hitting, one dimensional prospect in high school that couldn't get calls returned from his dream school, Florida State. Some elite athletes aren't developed when they turn 18 and especially the slim-bodied, up-the-middle type athletes often have to add some bulk and develop physically before it all comes together.  LINK

5-22-13 - Trea Turner, SS, North Carolina State - Maybe the most exciting player in college, Turner is a burner who is also showing power this year. The 6’-1”, 185-pound right-hander led the nation in stolen bases last year with 57 and was caught just four times. He also hit .336 with a .436 OBP and struck out just 38 times in 63 games. This year, he has recorded a hit and scored a run in all 11 Wolfpack games. He is hitting .477 (21-for-44) with 21 runs, five doubles, three home runs, five stolen bases and has struck out just twice. He may not end up at shortstop at the next level, but offensive talent and plus speed will make him an everyday regular. LINK

6-9-13  -   2.Trea Turner, SS (NC State): Strong hit tool and approach with plus speed up the middle, all of which make up for just around solid power potential. http://www.minorleaguerundown.com/2013/06/09/2014-mlb-draft-top-30-prospects/

6-10-13 -  Trea Turner, SS, North Carolina State - Turner is the most dynamic player in the country.  He came to national attention with his great baserunning and speed, but has shown that there is much more to his game.  He should be one of the first players selected in 2014. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/06/10/2014-mlb-draft-early-college-names-to-know/

6-11-13 - 6. Trea Turner, SS, N.C. State: He's a shortstop who can stay there, a leadoff hitter extraordinaire with plus-plus speed that allowed him to steal 84 bases in his first two seasons of college ball. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130611&content_id=50293726&vkey=news_mlb&c_id=mlb&tcid=tw_article_50293726

6-13-13  -  3. Milwaukee Brewers — Trea Tuner, SS, North Carolina State - Probably the most electric and exciting player in the 2014 MLB draft, the 6’-2” right-hander has shown the range, arm and instincts to stick at shortstop, including plays like this. Offensively, his speed is his best tool and he should be a major threat on the base paths at the next level. He also has a great approach at the plate and should hit for a high average, as well. He showed developing power this season and, if he continues to do so, Troy Tulowitzki comps will be coming. Hit .336 as a freshman and led the nation in stolen bases with 57. Over 51 injury shortened games this season, he hit .377 with 12 doubles, seven home runs, 27 stolen bases and drew 35 walks to 30 strikeouts for a .464 OBP/.578 SLG. http://beforeitsnews.com/sports/2013/06/2014-mlb-mock-draft-1-0-no-time-like-the-present-2513748.html?currentSplittedPage=2

6-22-13  -  Player:  Trea Turner   Position:  SS   School:  NC State   Height/Weight:  6’1/175  Bats/Throws:  R/R   2014 Class:  College Junior   Previously Drafted:  2011, 20th rd, Pirates Scouting Report: from Don Olsen on 6/18/2013 - Trea is a slender ideal frame, athletic lean, with decent overall development. He should sit 180-190 pounds as he matures; definitely see a bit more lower half development.  He has a little bit of load, with some uplift.  This is a minor issue as he has the blend of rhythm and bat speed to make contact concerns die off. Good balance and weight transfer with lower half torque in the swing.  Short compact path with good bat head control, drops the barrel with a mistake for pull power at this stage.  Shows solid plate coverage, good gap power, stays back on decent breaks, sound approach.  He can get a good amount of backspin on pulled balls, so seen power improvements over multiple views this spring.  On the paths, I have caught 3.85 – 4.0 down the line and 2.79 – 3.0 from 1st to 2nd.  His instinct on the path is already mature, picks a part pitchers timing and triggers quickly.  Soft hands, range to left and right is good, arm to carry, footwork around the bag and transfer is sound.  He has cleaned up footwork on catch, set, release, but it can be a point of growth in his game.

6-24-13   -  SS: Trea Turner, North Carolina State - A repeat member of this squad, Turner impressed me as much with his rare insightfulness as with his special baseball ability. Sure, he’s an electrifying player, with game-changing speed, a lightning-quick bat and the ability to dazzle on occasion at shortstop. But UCLA coach John Savage rightfully gushed about Turner’s analytical skills after Turner broke down Nick Vander Tuig’s performance against the Wolfpack. So Turner gets the nod over three other players who were a joy to watch this year, LSU’s Alex Bregman, Texas A&M’s Mikey Reynolds and Cal State Fullerton’s Richy Pedroza. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/tony-kemp-leads-2013-all-fitt-team/

6-28-13 - Trea Turner, SS, NC State: - The linchpin of the offense of a College World Series NC State club, Turner can do it all on the diamond and is sure to be in high demand next summer. A plus defender at shortstop, Turner has lateral burst, balance, soft hands and an aptitude for the diving play. He also possesses a quick release that helps his above average strength play up. He's a pro-ready defender and should be a highlight real with the glove at the next level. http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2013/6/28/4450674/the-way-too-early-2014-tcb-astros-draft-board


7-17-13 –  Trea Turner SS, NC State - Turner oozes athleticism and upside at SS.  He's still very lean and looks like he has some room to pack on some muscle without losing some of his tremendous speed, which rates as top-of-the line 80 on the scouting scale.  He was very quick at SS, ranging well to each direction and showing a strong arm.  Turner didn't hit the ball particularly well on these particular days (in fact, he went 0 for 9) but does have a smooth stroke that should hit for average along with a good eye at the plate.  He's a top 5 talent and has perhaps even a chance at #1 overall considering position value and his all-around skill set. http://www.chicagonow.com/cubs-den/2013/07/looking-ahead-to-the-2014-and-2015-mlb-draft-notes-from-the-collegiate-national-team-games/

7-21-13 - Cuba’s Norge Ruiz dominated his first time through the order, striking out five of the first nine batters faced. The second time through the order got off to a strong start for Team USA as Trea Turner (NC State) opened the fourth with a base hit to left center. LSU’s Alex Bregman followed with a base knock to give Team USA a pair of base runners. With one out and runners on the corners, Michael Conforto (Oregon State) broke the scoreless tie with a sacrifice fly to left. http://ht.ly/2yvWIz

8-14-13 – Through The Fence – Top 50 Prospects – 2. Trea Turner, SS, NC State - The 2013 MLB draft lacked depth up the middle. Turner, a 6’-1” right-hander, is a fantastic defender with outstanding range and a strong arm. His elite speed, advanced approach at the plate and ability to drive the ball to all fields make him one of the more exciting players in college and, once he gets on base, don’t blink. Over 56 games as a sophomore, he hit .368/.455/.553 with 30 stolen bases and drew 38 walks to just 30 strikeouts. He also hit seven home runs, showing developing power. As a freshman, he led the nation in stolen bases with 57 and was only thrown out four times. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-top-50-prospects/36463#mwWwsFxSUZy7YC5V.99     

Top 5 MLB Draft Prospects - #2. Trea Turner, SS (NC State): Heavy-duty hit tool and method with plus speed up the middle, all of which make up for just around compact power potential. In all probability the most power-driven and exhilarating player in the 2014 MLB draft, the 6’-2” right-hander has presented the range, arm and makeups to stick at shortstop. Offensively, his speed is his finest tool and he should be a major menace on the base paths at the next level. He also has a pronounced methodology at the plate and should hit for a high average, as well. He displayed increasing power this season and, if he continues to do so, Troy Tulowitzki comparisons will be impending. Hit .336 as a freshman and led the nation in stolen bases with 57. Over 51 injury condensed games this season, he hit .377 with 12 doubles, seven home runs, 27 stolen bases and drew 35 walks to 30 strikeouts for a .464 OBP/.578 SLG.  http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/08/30/top-5-mlb-draft-prospects/

9-1-13 - Jim Callis – 4. Trea Turner, ss, North Carolina State - More than just a burner, he also offers hitting prowess and the ability to stick at shortstop.

9-4-13 – Mack’s Mock Draft v1.0 – 4 – Cubs -  SS Trea Turner – North Carolina State – Turner could easily go 1-2 with his fellow Wolfpack, P Carlos Rodon. Has all 5-tools,  especially speed and the ability to stick at shortstop. Compared to Troy Tulowitzki. This is about as good as a draftable SS can be.

9-27-13 - Jim Callis - The 2014 Draft is a solid group that impresses scouts more than the 2012 and 2013 talent pools. College pitching is always a prized commodity, and there's plenty behind Rodon, starting with right-handers Jeff Hoffman (East Carolina) and Tyler Beede (Vanderbilt). There's more velocity this year in the high school ranks, with righty Tyler Kolek (Shepherd, Texas, HS) leading the way with a consistent upper-90s fastball. The pitchers stand out more than the position players, though there are plenty of intriguing bats. Catcher/outfielder Alex Jackson (Rancho Bernardo HS, San Diego) and shortstop Jacob Gatewood (Clovis, Calif., HS) offer plenty of power, while Trea Turner (North Carolina State) has uncommon speed and is a rare collegian who should be able to play shortstop in the Majors. http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20130927&content_id=61864804&c_id=

9-29-13 – XMLBScout – 11.)SS, Trea Turner, N C State, 6' 180, R/R, swift runner with a quick bat and occ power to the alleys, has enough glove and arm to be a starter at the ML level and contribute offensively with his 70 speed. Trea has a compact swing that generates alley power and he's getting better every year. Reminds me some of JJ Hardy. Definite early round guy for 2014! http://xmlbscout.angelfire.com/

9-30-13 – TTF Mock 2.0 - 2. Miami Marlins — Trea Turner, SS, North Carolina State There are a lot of players who could go second-overall but I like Turner, a 6’-1” right-hander with plus/plus speed, an excellent approach at the plate and a kid who will remain at a premium position due to his silly range, strong arm and instincts on the field. Over 56 games as a sophomore, he hit .368/.455/.553 with 30 stolen bases and drew 38 walks to just 30 strikeouts. He also hit seven home runs, showing developing power. As a freshman, he led the nation in stolen bases with 57 and was only thrown out four times. An alumni of Team USA Baseball, he is a franchise-type player and should be a huge fan favorite. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-mock-draft-2-0-draft-order-set/38280#5E3F5j1jWOgE69bJ.99

10-6-13 – Kendall Rogers/PG – College Prospects - 3. Trea Turner, ss, North Carolina State (Drafted: 2011, Pirates -- 20th round) - If there’s a position player who could vault to the top of the draft in 2014, Turner is a very good bet at this point. Turner is a 6-foot-1, 171-pounder, with exceptional speed. Turner has good offensive skills and some pop in his bat. In the field, there are some who believe Turner is an outfielder at the next level. However, he has shown good balance and a strong arm at shortstop, and most believe he’ll stay there. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9081

10-9-13 – Early Pick for Cubs - Trea Turner, SS, North Carolina State - If the speedy right-hander is still available when the Cubs are on the clock, you could be reading about their future shortstop and leadoff man. At 6’-”1 and 170 pounds, Turner is the best base-stealer in the 2014 MLB draft and is also one of the best hitters. More than 56 games as a sophomore, he hit .368/.455/.553 with 30 stolen bases and drew 38 walks to just 30 strikeouts. He also hit seven home runs, showing developing power. As a freshman, he led the nation in stolen bases with 57 and was only thrown out four times. His unreal range, strong arm and instincts will allow him to remain at shortstop and, even though Javier Baez looks like he should remain at shortstop, you can never have enough shortstop prospects in your system. Plus, I think Turner would be able to handle centerfield or second base if needed. The Cubs have plenty of power hitters in their system. What they lack is leadoff-type guys who can get on, steal bases and set the table for the thumpers. Turner is that guy and a future lineup with Baez, Albert Almora, Kris Bryant, Jorge Soler and Turner make me giggle. http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-early-targets-chicago-cubs-fourth-overall-pick/38723

10-14-13 – Top ’14 College Hitters - 2. Trea Turner / SS / NC State — Turner was outstanding over his sophomore campaign, but an ankle injury essentially ruined his Team USA experience this summer. Turner’s speed is élite, and with above-average pitch recognition and hand-eye coordination, many scouts believe he is a future prototypical leadoff hitter. Defensively he was outstanding in 2013 as well, using his speed to make plays to his left and right with above-average arm strength for the position. Don’t be surprised to see Turner go off the board in the first five picks of the 2014 draft. http://mlbdraftinsider.com/2013/10/top-14-for-14-college-hitters/

10-15-13 – Baseball America - 4. Trea Turner, ss, North Carolina State: Ankle issue hampered him in 2013, but he offers bat speed, athleticism and top-of-the-scale speed when healthy. http://www.baseballamerica.com/college/2014-draft-top-50-october-2013-carlos-rodon/

10-21-13 - Summary:  Trea Turner is going to be an impact player on both sides of the ball.  He would be an explosive leadoff man on any team.  He also has enough power that they can’t cheat in on him without him burning them.  He will be a game changer when he makes it to the next level. http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/10/20/scouting-report-trea-turner-ss-north-carolina-state/

11-19-13 - Trea Turner (SS) - College: NC State - Though I am almost 100% sure he will not be available by the time the Cardinals pick, I still decided to break him down. He is in the top five of the draft when it comes to speed, but some scouts, including ESPN’s Keith Law, have their doubts about his ability with the bat. Despite the doubts, he hit .368 with 7 home runs, 42 RBI and was 30 for 36 on stolen bases last season for the Wolf Pack. At 6’2″, 170 pounds, especially with a professional training staff, he has room to grow and add bulk which will help add power to his bat in the future. He has top-of-the-order, game-changing speed which equates to stolen bases on the base paths and above-average range in the field. If other teams doubt the projectability of his bat at the professional level and skip on him, the Cardinals would be ecstatic to snag him with their late first round pick. This is wishful thinking, though. I have seen some mock drafts having him go as high as second overall, while some have him dropping back into the 20th-25th overall pick range. Yet, he really would look great with the “Birds on the Bat” across his chest. http://stlcupofjoe.com/2013/11/19/2014-mlb-draft-five-prospects-to-keep-an-eye-on-part-2/

11-27-13 – Big League Futures Top 25 Poll –   4 Trea Turner    SS North Carolina State http://bigleaguefutures.net/1/2013/11/26/mlb-draft-top-25-prospects-poll/

B/R – 11-21-13 - 3. Chicago White Sox: Trea Turner, SS, North Carolina State - At 6’2”, 175 pounds, Turner is excellent athlete with legitimate 80-grade speed—yes, he’s fully healthy after dealing with a severe ankle sprain for most of the 2013 season—and the defensive chops to stick at shortstop long term. At the plate, the right-handed hitter shows above-average bat speed with a smooth swing but lacks consistent over-the-fence pop. Still, his wheels and base running savvy should make him a consistent extra-base threat at the highest level. Turner’s plate discipline and approach are both highly advanced for his age and should give him the chance to reach his hit-tool ceiling at the next level. And with a strong junior campaign alongside teammate Carlos Rodon, he has the potential to be the first position player to come off the board. http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1860341-2014-mlb-mock-draft-early-first-round-projections-for-all-30-teams/page/10

12-9-13 – Pine Tar Press  -  7- SS Trea Turner NC State 6/30/93- Plus speed guy who will join his Wolfpack teammate as a top 10 pick.  He has all of the intangibles of a great offensive weapon including plate awareness, and a solid line drive swing.  He should be able to stick at SS but should also be viewed as a potential CF. (Mariners @ 6) http://pinetarpress.com/early-look-2014-mlb-draft/

1-3-14 – TTF Baseball - 6. Seattle Mariners — Trea Turner, SS, North Carolina State - Arguably my favorite player in the 2014 MLB draft, the 6’-1” right-hander is a burner who gets on base and plays great defense at a premium position. Some have questioned his hit tool but all he has done is hit for a high average with great strikeout/walk ratios. Over 56 games as a sophomore, he hit .368/.455/.553 with 30 stolen bases and drew 38 walks to just 30 strikeouts. He also hit seven home runs, showing developing power. As a freshman, he led the nation in stolen bases with 57 and was only thrown out four times. He was slowed by an ankle injury over the summer, which might have led to some dropping him in their rankings, but he is fully healed now and should be one of the most exciting players in college this year again.  http://throughthefencebaseball.com/2014-mlb-draft-2/40753#ppGUqI6CbWFvzsPf.99

1-20-14 – PG Preseason College All-Americans - Shortstop - Trea Turner, NC State - 2013 Stats: .368 AVG, 13 2B, 4 2B, 7 HR, 42 RBI, 38 BB, 31 SO, 30 SB - North Carolina State lefthanded pitcher Carlos Rodon might be the nation’s elite pitcher and prospect, and the headliner for the Wolfpack. But plenty of coaches out there would take Turner over anyone else in college baseball. Turner, a lanky 6-foot-1, 171-pounder, has exceptional speed, an advanced offensive approach and is a more than adequate defender. He’s truly one of the electrifying players in college baseball, and it’s a good reason why he’s our No. 3 prospect entering the season. http://www.perfectgame.org/Articles/View.aspx?article=9294

1-26-14 - Jim Callis ‏@jimcallisMLB  - Turner overall, Bregman better bat. Bregman a pro 2B. @dhb38: diff classes but who's better Trea Turner or Alex Bregman? Both ss?


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