Mets Draft Target - OF - Justin Williams

2013 Baseball Draft Scouting Report: Justin Williams

High School Senior
Bats/Throws: Left/Right
HT/WT: 6'2"/215
Birthdate: 8/20/95 Age at Draft: 17.93

Williams is a 6’3", 215 pound OF. He has played SS on his HS team and could get a shot at playing the hot corner at the next level but I think he is destined for a corner OF spot. He is a good but not elite athlete. At the plate is where Williams makes his mark. His big lefthanded power launched homers into the upper deck at the Metrodome at the PG National showcase. He has a quick, simple swing that can get around on velocity and punish balls in batting practice. He has a simple leg lift as the pitch comes in which I like, but he also lifts his back leg just before that, and that needs to be corrected. This is a very small thing but could hinder him against better pitching. LINK

 Williams is definitely more of an athlete than a baseball player, but his ceiling is one of the highest in the prep ranks this year. In his BP session at the Perfect Game 2012 National Showcase, he swung at every single pitch, including some that were visibly out of the strike zone. That being said, when he squared a ball up, all the scouts in attendance watched it fly. His raw power is near the top of the charts and when he squares a ball up, it carries. The approach and pure hitting skills aren’t on the same level, though this is at least partially explained by his relative inexperience compared to his peers. His present swing mechanics are busy and unrefined, but his strength and athleticism still allow him to make solid contact. He’s a decent runner who won’t clog the bases and he can handle a corner outfield position. You’re buying the power potential here and there’s quite a bit to like. LINK

 When I first laid eyes on Justin Williams, I had the same reaction as many: GIMME. But after extensive research, I've become less enthusiastic on his 2013 Draft credentials. The 17-year-old converted shortstop certainly looks the part, standing 6-foot-2, 215 pounds, consistently obliterating batting practice balls from the left side of the plate. Unfortunately, outside of Williams' raw power and size, his prospect resume is underwhelming. Defensively, Williams projects as a right fielder, but fringe speed, an average arm and raw fundamentals may force him to slide down to first base, as he progresses through the Minors. LINK

I really like this kid, but not until the Mets third pick. I'm still a college pick guy, but Williams  would be a steal if he dropped to #76. My guess is he will be gone and I still want to go college with the fist two picks. He's all about raw power.