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: - .mlb.com; 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.
2) 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.
3) 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
4) 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.
5) 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
6) 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
7-21-11: - 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.
7) 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.
8) 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
9) 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.
10) 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.
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) 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
13) 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
14) 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
15) 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
16) 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
17) 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
18) 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.
19) 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.
20) 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!
21) 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
22) 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
23) 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
24) 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.
25) 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
26) 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.
27) 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.
28) 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
29) 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
30) 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
31) 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
32) 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.
33) 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.
34) 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
35) 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
36) 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
37) 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
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/8 - While he is definitely undersized (5'10", 160 lbs), OF Chaz Frank might get some attention if he can put together a better season that he did this year. He hit .278 and finished tied for the team lead with three triples. Like most Tar Heels, he too posted more walks (41) than strikeouts (31) and also showed good speed on the basepaths, swiping 10 bases in 13 tries.
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.
38) 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.
39) 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.
40) 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
41) 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.
42) Brandon Wood:
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/7 - OF Brandon Wood had a tough year with the new bats, hitting only .259 with one home run. Given another year, the talented athlete who played football for three years in high school, should adjust and become a late-round talent.
43) 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.
44) 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.
45) 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.
46) 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.
47) 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.
48) 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.
49) 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.
50) 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.
51) 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.
52) Jesse Winkler:
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.
53) Travis Jankowski:
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.
54) Jake Stewart:
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
55) 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.
56) 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.
57) 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.
58) 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.
59) 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.
60) 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.
61) 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.
62) Dario Pizzan:
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.
63) 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.
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