Stephen Guilbert - Top of the 2014 MLB Draft Still Uncertain

In 2012, the Astros surprised many when they selected SS Carlos Correa over the much-hyped Mark Appel

The Astros certainly keep from tipping their hand when it comes to the #1 pick. They have had practice, though, selecting first overall for the third year in a row. While many agree the Astros will select one of five players: Pitchers Brady Aiken, Tyler Kolek, Carlos Rodon, C/OF Alex Jackson or SS Nick Gordon, no one knows which will be the first player's named called this week. I am not sure the Astros even know.

In 2012, drafting and signing Carlos Correa over the expensive Mark Appel allowed them to go well over slot for another top 15 talent in Lance McCullers for their second pick in the supplemental round. Both are now top-50 prospects in the game. Last year, they went back to convention and drafted Appel, whose relationship with Scott Boras most likely cost him a year's worth of professional play.

Former consensus #1 Carlos Rodon shares that in common with Appel (as does Jackson) and although the Astros did agree with Appel last year, many wonder if the Astros will reach a bit for another shortstop and save money for later in the draft.

That shortstop? Nick Gordon, the brother of successful Dodger Dee Gordon and son of Tom Gordon. Nick is the better player of the two brothers, possessing blazing speed, outstanding defense, the best infield arm in the draft, and far more power than brother Dee.

The Twins are my match for Gordon right now but Jon Heyman recently opined that the Astros could pull a 2012 and grab Gordon. Some think Correa might have to move to third soon anyway and that left side of an infield could be the best in baseball within a few years.

Does this effect the Mets? Yes and no. The top five guys should be the first five off the board in some order, unless the Cubs do something wacky and draft C Max Pentacost, a player they have been linked to by some. Before Gordon's rise up draft boards late this spring, many had him going to the Phillies or Blue Jays, two teams also looking at SS Trea Turner, a favorite of mine and draft target for the Mets as well. If Gordon goes #1, perhaps Jacob Gatewood slips into the top ten as well. This could push someone like Jeff Hoffman or Aaron Nola to the Mets at ten, especially if Turner is selected by the Blue Jays at #9 (which many people think will happen).

The question, then, is: Will Sandy go off script and take the best player available, even if it is another RHP…the only true positional strength in his system?

Lots will happen in the coming days. Stay tuned.

-SG