2016 MLB Draft Live Blog – Day 3

Posted on June 11, 2016 by Ryan Sullivan

We are back in THE NatsGM Studios, fueled on coffee and leftovers, to Live Blog Day 3 of the MLB Draft! Today we will draft rounds 11-40, so please join me with your questions, comments, rants, and more.

While Day 3 sees the talent pool get thinner, there are still several players I like and would be happy if the Nationals added them to the organization this afternoon. A few names I am specifically listening for today are Nick Cieri Maryland, Brigham Hill Texas A&M, Ian Hamilton Washington State, Cory Wilder NC State, Vincent Jackson Tennessee, Connor Jones Georgia, Jason Delay Vanderbilt and Mitchell Traver Texas Christian.

12:03pm – Looks like we are getting started basically on time… 11th round and Day 3, let’s do this!

12:12pm – Already realizing how difficult today’s live blog is going to be, as MLB.com is not updating the picks in real-time. Bear with me today gang!

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 11th Round Pick -> Armond Upshaw CF Pensacola State

Listed as both an outfielder and left-handed pitcher, Upshaw posted a .327 average this season with 3 home runs and 33 stolen bases. It appears as though Upshaw has some tools, with the possible backup plan of converting him to the mound if he fails to hit.

12:18pm – Shocked, and kinda proud, at the number of players I still recognize going here early on Day 3. Of course the picks are going so quickly I cannot comment on them, but still…

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 12th Round Pick -> Hayden Howard LHP Texas Tech

A large 6-4 190lbs lefty, Howard transferred to Texas Tech this season after two years at Seward County Community College. He was selected in the 39th round of the 2013 draft by the Oakland Athletics, so he has been on scouts’ radar for a while. This season he posted a 9-3 record with a 3.13 ERA, with 49 strikeouts against only 18 walks in 74.2 innings pitched. The strikeout number is slightly concerning, but the walk rate and projectable body has me intrigued to watch his development.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 13th Round Pick -> Conner Simonetti 1B Kent State University

Drafted by Cincinnati in the 2013 draft, Simonetti is listed as a 6-1 215lbs junior who hit .311 this season with 17 home runs for the Golden Flashes this season. In addition, he hit 11 doubles and a triple this season in 56 games, giving me some optimism about his power potential.

12:40pm – If you have any additional information on these players, please let me/us know in the comment’s section. These are (often) new names to me and the readers of NatsGM, so if you can help educate, let us know!

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 14th Round Pick -> Kyle Simonds RHP Texas A&M

A senior transfer from Hutchinson CC, Simonds received national attention this spring, no-hitting Vanderbilt in early May. Listed at 6-4 200lbs, Simonds was 10-3 this season with a 2.73 ERA. He had 74 strikeouts against only 23 walks in 92.1 innings this spring. He should sign quickly and has a chance to rise through the organization due to his ability to pound the strike zone.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 15th Round Pick -> Ryan Williamson LHP North Carolina State

A junior left-handed starter for the Wolfpack, Williamson pitched 70.1 innings this season, posting a 2.69 ERA with 77 strikeouts against 38 walks. Interestingly, Williamson is expected to undergo Tommy John surgery in the future, meaning the Nationals are hoping to sign him and rehabilitate his arm. Considering he will not pitch next season if he has surgery, I would assume he signs relatively quickly and the Nats might have a bargain in Round 15.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 16th Round Pick -> Phillip Morse RHP Shenandoah University

A senior righty, listed as 6-2 185lbs, is a local boy from Vienna, Virginia. Morse this season made 22 appearances and threw 30.2 innings, posting a 0.88 ERA with 26 strikeouts and 8 saves. On his Shenandoah page, this first thing they mention is “great pop on the fastball”. Personally I am excited to see what his fastball looks like…

1:12pm – After taking precious few arms through the first two days of the draft, we are now seeing Washington load up on college arms, taking 4 pitchers in their past 5 picks. I would expect this trend to continue through the rest of the teens.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 17th Round Pick -> Tyler Beckwith SS University of Richmond

Another local product from Mount Airy, MD and Linganore high school, Beckwith is a senior shortstop who hit .319 with 6 home runs, 29 extra base hits and 10 stolen bases for the Spiders this season. He has the reputation as a solid fielder and his statistics show he has some speed and the ability to hit for average. His senior numbers were much better than his other three seasons, which gives some hope maybe a Nationals’ area scout has found a gem.

1:24pm – Just realized going head-to-head with the Nationals game is probably not the best thing for my traffic and page views today… D’oh!

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 18th Round Pick -> Ben Braymer LHP Auburn University

A junior left-handed pitcher who previously played at LSU-Eunice, Braymer posted a 4-4 record this season with a 3.56 ERA over 48 innings pitched, allowing 36 hits and 20 walks against 47 strikeouts. Any lefty with a strikeout rate of nearly 9 per 9 innings in the SEC piques my interest. If he is signable, he might develop into a lefty specialist down the road.

1:35pm – I would have bet money Aaron Nola would have lasted longer in the Nationals game than the first 10 rounds of Day 3’s draft.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 19th Round Pick -> Jarrett Gonzales Catcher Texas HS

Listed as a 5-11 185lbs right-handed hitting and throwing catcher, I see precious little information online about Gonzales. If anyone can help, please do.

According to Google, Gonzales played on the 2015 Area Code Games team named after the Washington Nationals… Seems like this could be a natural connection, or not.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 20th Round Pick -> Jake Barnett LHP Lewis and Clark State College

Dipping into the NAIA waters, Barnett is listed as a junior 6-2 190lbs lefty who previously played at Palomar College. This season he made 16 appearances and pitched 47.2 innings, allowing 42 hits and 16 walks against 51 strikeouts. Baseball America listed him on their Idaho state map as a “other prospects of note”, but does not have any information about him.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 21st Round Pick -> Jacob Howell RHP Delta State

Another junior right-handed pitcher, Howell is listed at 6-3 190lbs. This season Howell posted a 3.93 ERA for Delta State in 34.1 innings pitched, with 45 strikeouts against 35 hits and 15 walks allowed. The ERA seems high for this level of competition, but that strikeout rate is interesting.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 22nd Round Pick -> Sterling Sharp RHP Drury University

A 6-3 185lbs junior right-handed pitcher, Sharp (best name in the Nats’ class and arguably best in this draft) provided Drury with a 5.90 ERA in 50.1 innings this season, with 43 strikeouts and 23 walks. The numbers do not look pretty and the level of competition is not stellar, so I am assuming an area scout likes his velocity and/or arm.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 23rd Round Pick -> Michael Rishwain RHP Westmont College

A senior 6-3 220lbs right-handed pitcher, Rishwain posted a 1.51 ERA this season for Westmont in 35.1 innings, providing them with 31 strikeouts against only 7 walks this season while pitching in relief. He should sign quickly and pitch in the bullpen for one of Washington’s affiliates, likely Auburn.

2:41pm – Wow, Seattle just picked Tre Griffey, the son of Ken Griffey Jr. from the University of Arizona. This pick makes me feel extremely old.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 24th Round Pick -> Joseph Baltrip RHP Wharton County CC

Baltrip is a sophomore at Wharton and unfortunately their website provided little other information on Baltrip.
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2:48pm – Any chance the Nationals can start drafting players from some larger schools? It would make researching these young players a lot easier.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 25th Round Pick -> Branden Boggetto SS Southeast Missouri State

A senior 6-0 190lbs infielder, Boggetto was listed on the top-100 seniors by Perfect Game prior to the season. This year Boggetto hit .339 with 5 home runs, 27 extra base hits and 9 stolen bases in 59 games played. Similarly to 17th round pick Tyler Beckwith, he should sign quickly and add infield depth in the lower minor leagues.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 26th Round Pick -> Jack Sundberg CF University of Connecticut

Finally a player I have watched! Sundberg is a senior from UConn who hits left-handed and throws right-handed. He is a physical kid who looks bigger than his listed 5-11 190lbs. This season Sundberg struggled at the plate, hitting only .258 with 5 home runs and 17 stolen bases after hitting .287 with a .412 OBP in 2015. He has some speed and can play all three positions adequately, making him an intriguing pick this late.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 27th Round Pick -> Jeremy McDonald LHP California Baptist

Another senior, McDonald is listed as a 5-9 182lbs lefty, which would make him the smallest drafted pitcher I can remember in the Rizzo era. This year McDonald had a 2.14 ERA over 84 innings pitched with 88 strikeouts and 40 walks. Interestingly, he allowed only 1 home run this season – maybe he develops into a productive lefty reliever down the road.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 28th Round Pick -> Jonny Reid LHP Azusa Pacific University

Son of a coach at Azusa, Reid is a junior who had 70 strikeouts against 20 walks in 86 innings of action this season. The Nationals continue to stockpile pitching in the middle rounds of Day 3.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 29th Round Pick -> Samuel Held RHP University of Nevada-Reno

Back to the right-handed pitchers – Held is a senior 6-5 195lbs pitcher who spent two seasons at Delta State before transferring to Nevada-Reno. This season Held had a 5.17 ERA in 38.1 innings pitched, with 13 (yes 13) strikeouts against 9 walks. Even for a 29th round pick, this selection has me slightly stumped, yet very interested to see what the area scout saw in this prospect.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 30th Round Pick -> Tristan Clarke CF East Oklahoma State Junior College

A sophomore 6-3 184lbs R/R outfielder, I am not finding anything else on him online – Help?

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 31st Round Pick -> CJ Picerni Catcher New York University

Another senior, the Nationals draft another catcher here in Round 31 with CJ Picerni from NYU. Picerni hit .258 this season with 0 homers and 9 doubles in 34 games and 124 at-bats. He should provide additional depth for Washington in Rookie ball this summer.

4:22pm – I would like to thank several commenters in the comment’s section who are adding additional information on several of these picks – Thanks everyone!

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 32nd Round Pick -> Garrett Gonzales 3B Texas HS

The son of one of the Nationals’ scouts, Gonzales is listed as a 5-11 165lbs shortstop who bats left-handed, throws right-handed and is committed to Incarnate Word. Typically I would dismiss a pick like this as a favor to a member of the organization, but the lack of a strong college commitment could make him a possibility for Washington to sign.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 33rd Round Pick -> Ryan Wetzel SS Heritage Christian Academy

The son of a special assistant to the GM for the Nationals, Wetzel appears to be uncommitted to a college as of now, though he is linked to several impressive Big-12 teams. He bats left-handed and throws right-handed, and is listed at 6-2 170lbs. Similarly to Gonzales above, typically this would feel like a “throwaway” pick as a favor to a friend of the organization, but the lack of a college commitment makes it plausible he signs.

4:41pm – There have now been 1,000 players drafted… That is a staggering number. Still several rounds to go however!

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 34th Round Pick -> Morgan Cooper RHP University of Texas

A redshirt sophomore, Cooper is a huge 6-4 220lbs righty who provided the Longhorns with a 4.03 ERA in 67 innings this season, striking out 70 and walking only 17. Cooper obviously has the leverage to go back to school, so it will be interesting to see if the Nationals can sign him. He would be a nice addition to this draft class if they can get him signed.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 35th Round Pick -> Tristan Bayless LHP Hutto HS Texas

I am not finding anything about Mr. Bayless online at this time. Can anyone help?

5:11pm – Detroit just selected Florida HS Drew Mendoza here in Round 36 – Many had mocked him to the Nationals before the draft. Now it seems likely he will play at Florida State and re-enter the draft in 3 years.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 36th Round Pick -> Jordan McFarland OF Waterloo HS Illinois

Committed to Arkansas, McFarland is a promising looking outfield prospect for the Razorbacks, standing 6-3 and 225lbs. A 2nd team Perfect Game All-American, McFarland feels highly unlikely to sign this late in the draft and will likely find his way to college. However, as per usual with the Nationals, remember this name as Washington could look to re-draft him again in three years.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 37th Round Pick -> Cory Voss Catcher McLennan Community College

Drafted by Colorado in the 34th round of the 2014 draft, Voss spent his freshman season at the University of New Mexico before transferring to McLennan. This year Voss hit .384 with 11 home runs and 53 runs batted in over 55 games played. Committed to the University of Arizona for next year, Voss might be difficult to sign away from Tucson, but looks like a nice gamble in Round 37.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 38th Round Pick -> Noah Murdock Colonial Heights HS VA

A monster local product listed at 6-8 175lbs, Murdock has a strong commitment to play baseball at Virginia, making it nearly impossible Washington is able to sign him. Much like Tommy Doyle two years ago, the Nationals are likely making this pick with their idea of potentially drafting him again in three years.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 39th Round Pick -> Matt Mervis 1B/RHP Georgetown Prep HS

Yes! My alma mater, Georgetown Prep, gets represented in the 2016 MLB Draft, as the Nationals select Matt Mervis, a corner infielder and pitcher. Mervis has a strong commitment to Duke University, but was receiving 1st day buzz earlier this spring after performing well at the NHSI showcase in Chicago. It looks like Mervis will be taking his talents to Durham for the next 3 years, but I am so excited that he was drafted, particularly by his hometown Nationals. Congrats to Matt and the Lil’ Hoyas!

6pm – Last round everyone! I want to thank everyone who has joined me the last three days. Like the last five years I have done this, it is a long, but wonderful three day adventure.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 40th Round Pick -> Sean Cook RHP Walt Whitman HS Bethesda, MD

I love that the Nationals have selected two local kids with their last two picks, and two players I have seen play. Cook is a 6-0 175lbs righty who struck out 46 batters in 46 innings this spring for the Vikings. He is expected to walk-on at the University of Maryland this spring and could develop into an interesting prospect in a few years.

6:12pm – With that, the NatsGM Live Blog of the 2016 MLB Draft is a wrap. Please keep the comments coming in the comment’s section. Thanks again for reading, bye for now!

2016 MLB Draft Live Blog – Day 2

Posted on June 10, 2016 by Ryan Sullivan

We are back LIVE in THE NatsGM Studios ready to Live Blog Day 2 of the MLB Draft! There is still plenty of talent remaining in this deep draft, so the Nationals (and the 29 other clubs) have a chance today to select some future contributors to their organization.

Please join me with your comments, questions, hot takes or whatever in the comment’s section or on Twitter @NatsGMdotcom. Thanks for joining me today!

12:31pm – Been a long time since I have been this excited for a Day 2 of the draft… Curious to see if I feel the same way around 6pm tonight.

12:53pm – So MLB Network pulled an NBA Playoff game – They said we would start at 12:30, but looks like 1pm is the real start time.

1pm – Have heard Drew Mendoza linked to Philadelphia early in Round 3… We shall see.

1:09pm – Phillies instead take High School SS Cole Stobbe, continuing to take advantage of their large bonus pool this year.

1:13pm – Rockies just selected Long Beach State SS Garrett Hampson, a Nationals selection three years ago and a player I mocked to Washington this morning. He has excellent speed, some solid barrel skills, and shortstops are often “overdrafted” on draft day. He has some tools and should stay in the middle infield, making him a nice pick.

1:26pm – MLB Network is dragging out this 3rd round like old golfers in Florida who don’t want to go home to sleep. Let’s get this moving a bit guys!

1:33pm – Boston just selected University of Florida RHP Shaun Anderson in the middle of Round 3. I like his arm a lot, as Anderson has a mid-90s fastball and a swing-and-miss breaking ball. He acted as their closer this season and could move quickly in a relief role.

1:39pm – BIG fan of the Orioles selection of Jacksonville OF Austin Hays – he has some legitimate tools and profiles well in right field. He was a standout performer last summer on the Cape and is a terrific value in Round 3.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Round 3 Pick -> Jesus Luzardo LHP Florida HS

Of course the Nationals select a pitcher coming off Tommy John surgery, as Lazardo had first round stuff at the beginning of this year before the injury. He has a fastball that can reach 95mph, plus a slider and a changeup. He will need time to recover, but this is an intriguing, excellent pick in Round 3.

1:53pm – Assuming Luzardo is signable, which he should be considering the injury and where he was selected, he is one of the better value picks thus far in Round 3.

1:58pm – The Kansas City Royals just selected Northern Virginia HS OF Khalil Lee at the end of Round 3. He had a big season as a pitcher this spring, but was announced as a centerfielder. He has excellent speed, a strong arm, and some barrel skills, making him an intriguing profile for the Royals. Congrats to Khalil!

2:01pm – And the first Bethesda Big Train playing was just drafted, as the Pittsburgh Pirates selected SS Stephen Alamais from Tulane in Round 3. He should stay at shortstop and has some speed, not to mention is a tremendous young man. Congrats to him and the Big Train!

2:15pm – Detroit just chose Louisville SP Kyle Funkhouser, whom I had mocked to Washington much of the spring. He struggled as a senior for the Cardinals but has a quality mid-90s fastball and three off-speed pitches. This is a nice pick in Round 4.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 4th Round Selection -> Nick Banks OF Texas A&M

Another interesting selection here for the Nationals, as he was a member of Team USA last summer but struggled a bit this spring for the Aggies with “draftitis”. He has some legitimate power and the ability to pepper the gaps with line drives. He had surgery this year, which might have hindered his numbers this year. If the team can get him healthy and back to his sophomore form, the Nationals could have a steal in Round 4. Intriguing, boom or bust pick for the Nationals…

2:44pm – The Cardinals continue to make shrewd pick after shrewd pick, grabbing USC catcher Jeremy Martinez with the last pick in Round 4. He has had the ultimate case of prospect fatigue and struggled a bit in his first two years in school, but broke out this season as a junior. He needs development time, especially at the plate, but he’s a great pick outside the top-100.

2:50pm – Surprised Maryland SP Mike Shawaryn is still on the board… Someone is going to get a nice value with him, likely in the next 20 picks or so.

3:00pm – And there you have it, the Red Sox just selected Shawaryn in the middle of Round 5. There are questions about his arm action and his long-term health, but he has a quality 3-pitch mix and could find himself develop into a #4/5 starter in time.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 5th Round Selection -> Daniel Johnson CF New Mexico State

A left-handed hitting, left-handed throwing toolsy outfielder who produced well this season, hitting 12 home runs and 29 stolen bases this season. He possesses good speed and a strong arm, which gives him a solid center field profile. Scouts believe he has some barrel skills, but he is extremely raw. This is a project for the Nationals scouting-and-development staff, but Johnson has a solid package of tools for a 5th round pick.

3:13pm – Quick observation – The Nationals three picks thus far today have extremely high ceilings, but also have plenty of bust potential. I thought they would go college heavy on Day 2, but I am surprised at how risky these picks are. This is not to say I do not like the picks, not at all, I just figured on a different strategy.

3:19pm – The Dodgers select LHP Devin Smeltzer from San Jacinto JC, whom I mocked to Washington in Round 5 this morning. He threw a no-hitter on the Cape last summer, along with making the All-Star game roster. He has a funky delivery with a low-90s fastball and a sweeping low-80s slider. He profiles as a likely left-handed reliever, but there is an outside chance he can remain a starter.

3:20pm – Toronto pops Notre Dame 2B Cavan Biggio, son of Craig Biggio here in Round 5. He does not have great tools, besides his ability to control the strike zone.
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3:44pm – Colorado takes University of Miami OF Willie Abreu, who has impressive tools and looks the part of a major leaguer, but struggles to produce during games. This is a nice gamble for the Rockies, who are having a strong draft so far.

3:53pm – Great pick by Seattle early in Round 6, taking Millersville RHP Brandon Miller, who was excellent on Cape Cod last summer and caught my eye in the Cape All-Star game. He has a good fastball in the low-90s and a quality breaking ball, giving him a change to start in pro ball. Excellent pick by the Mariners!

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 6th Round Selection ->Tres Barrera Catcher University of Texas

I like this pick here in Round 6, as Barrera possesses some arm strength and average skills defensively. At the plate Barrera has some raw pull power in his right-handed swing, but does not profile to hit for a high average at the professional levels. If everything comes together with Barrera, he could become a slightly above-average defensive catcher with some power. This is not overly exciting, but he has a high floor and stands a reasonable chance of becoming a major league backup.

4:09pm – Texas makes a nice pick late in Round 6, getting University of Kentucky RHP Kyle Cody, a senior with a good fastball and potential to be a 7th/8th inning reliever in time.

4:11pm – Dodgers just selected University of Mississippi SS Errol Robinson, a former local product from St. John’s college high school. He has a strong arm, good athleticism and should stay at shortstop long-term. Offensively he struggles on the Cape last summer and continued this spring with the Rebels, but his defensive skills and speed give him a nice chance to reach the big leagues… Congrats Errol!

4:26pm – It’s almost happy hour, right?

4:34pm – Orioles take a familiar name, 1B Preston Palmeiro from NC State University in the middle of Round 7. He has a nice left-handed swing as well, with limited athleticism. He has a chance to hit his way up the ladder, similarly to previous draft picks Trey Mancini and Christian Walker.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 7th Round Selection -> Jacob Noll 2B Florida Gulf Coast

Very interesting pick here by the Nationals, as Noll is limited defensively and athleticism-wise, but he has a quality right-handed bat. He has a linear swing with some noticeable bat speed and barrel skills. He had a successful summer last year for Hyannis on Cape Cod and made the midseason All-Star team. He does not hit for a great deal of power due to the short, compact nature of his swing, but he can hit. Noll is limited to second base or left field defensively, but his bat gives him a chance to reach the majors. He reminds me a little of a right-handed hitting Max Schrock, the Nationals Day 3 selection in 2015.

4:54pm – I am a big fan of what the Nationals are doing today in Day 2. I am slightly surprised they have leaned so heavily toward college hitters, as the organization has typically gone more toward arms in the early rounds. However, they have done a nice job of grabbing some players with ceiling early today, then grabbing a couple nice values in Barrera and Noll in Rounds 6 & 7. We should look for a couple senior signs in the next few picks to round out today’s picks.

5:04pm – Marlins took Andrew Knapp, centerfielder from University of California Berkeley here in Round 9, an athletic lefty hitter/thrower who is a plus defender in center. He does not have much power, but could become a 5th outfielder/defensive specialist in the future. He does not have a high ceiling, but I like him and his potential.

5:16pm – Indians just took Andrew Lantrip from the University of Houston, a projectable right-hander who pounds the strike zone with a low-90s fastball and a decent breaking ball. He might be a long-term reliever, but this is a nice value late in Round 8.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 8th Round Selection -> A.J. Bogucki RHP University of North Carolina

This is an intriguing arm selected by the Nationals here in Round 8, as Bogucki has pitched in relief for the most part at North Carolina but probably will begin his professional career as a starter. He can touch the mid-90s with his fastball when he is on, and can show a decent slider and changeup. He needs plenty of refinement, but the Nationals’ development people must be excited to work with this type of pure velocity.

5:35pm – 9th round, here we go!

5:43pm – Pretty sure I am not going to make it all the way through today’s selections without a beer – anyone out there having a good Friday happy hour?

WASHINGTON NATIONALS 9th Round Selection -> Joseph Harris Catcher Gonzaga University

Known for his excellent arm and ability to play a strong defensive catcher, Harris is a senior catcher who batted .247 with 2 home runs this season for Gonzaga. He was selected as the WCC defensive player of the year in 2015 and should sign quickly with Washington.

6:12pm – We’ve reached the 10th and final round of Day 2! Maybe we will see the Nationals pick a pitcher…

6:19pm – Oakland just selected one of my favorite “sleepers” in this draft class, Stetson RHP Mitchell Jordan, here in Round 10. He pitched well last summer on the Cape, pounding the zone with a low-90s fastball. He rarely walks hitters and has some sink on his fastball. This is a nice value late on Day 2.

6:21pm – Padres select in Round 10 Texas A&M 3B Boomer White, a senior who was the SEC player of the year. He has limited athleticism and does not have a pure defensive profile, but he can hit and work a walk. This is a terrific senior sign in Round 10.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Round 10 Selection -> Paul Panaccione SS Grand Canyon University

A senior from this small University, Panaccione is a versatile defender who will probably not stay at shortstop long-term, likely moving to a utility role in pro ball. A right-handed hitter Panaccione hit .363 this season with 4 home runs and 10 stolen bases. The guys on the telecast seemed to like Panaccione as a senior sign, saying he had more upside than a typical senior 10th round pick.

6:45pm – Excellent pick by the Dodgers late in Round 10, picking UMBC SS Kevin LaChance, a nice fielder with an interesting bat. I watched him twice this spring in-person and I liked him as a middle infielder and possible future utility player.

6:55pm – And with that, Day 2 of the 2016 MLB Draft is a wrap. I want to thank everyone for joining me today during this exciting process. I will return tomorrow at Noon to guide everyone through Rounds 11-40 of the draft. Please join me with you questions and comments either in the comment’s section or tomorrow during our Live Blog. Bye for now!

The Washington Nationals Select Kieboom, Dunning and Neuse on Day 1 of the MLB Draft

Posted on June 10, 2016 by Ryan Sullivan

The Washington Nationals used Day 1 of the MLB Draft to add to their collection of talent in their farm system, choosing high school infielder Carter Kieboom, college pitcher Dane Dunning and college infielder Sheldon Neuse. The Nationals forfeited their original 1^st round pick as compensation for signing Daniel Murphy, but received picks in return for the losses of Ian Desmond and Jordan Zimmermann. This left Washington picking number #28, #29 and #58 on Thursday evening.

Carter Kieboom, the younger brother of fellow Nationals prospect Spencer Kieboom and University of Georgia’s Trevor Kieboom, is the top prospect in this baseball family as a middle infielder with an impressive bat. At the plate Kieboom shows a patient, mature approach with some natural feel for the barrel. There is explosiveness in his body and some natural loft in his swing, giving him a chance to hit for both average and some power. Defensively Kieboom has improved enough this spring to give scouts the opinion he could stay at shortstop and will certainly stay on the left side of the infield. He has a quick first step and solid agility, plus excellent instincts, allowing him to profile at shortstop. If he reaches his ceiling, I had a scout put a “Mike Bordick comparison” on Kieboom.

With their 2^nd 1^st round selection, 29^th overall, the Nationals selected University of Florida right-handed pitcher Dane Dunning. Due to the depth of the Florida pitching staff, Dunning has spent most of his time with the Gators starting during the midweek and pitching in relief on the weekend. The 6-3 200lbs Dunning has an ideal pitcher’s frame with some projection remaining, especially in his lower half. He has a relatively clean and simple delivery, which he repeats well. He possesses a 3-pitch repertoire, featuring a 91-95mph fastball with extreme arm-side movement, a slider and a changeup. He has shown a feel for both off-speed offerings, though the changeup seems more advanced than the slider. In the past Dunning has struggled with his command and control of the strike zone, but this season he made major advances in this area, halving his walk rate as a junior. He pitches off his fastball, an easy plus pitch, but will need to develop his changeup and slider if he wants to be a long-term starter.

In Round 2, 58^th overall, Washington selected University of Oklahoma shortstop and right-handed pitcher Sheldon Neuse. One of the top two-way players in college baseball, Neuse destroyed college baseball this year with a .369/.465/.646 batting line with 10 home runs and 16 doubles, while also posting a 1.40 ERA and 5 saves in 14 appearances on the mound. But Neuse will begin his career as a hitter, where he shows a mature approach at the plate and the ability to get on-base. His swing can get long at times, but there is some bat speed and barrel awareness to Neuse’s game, allowing one to dream on him developing an average hit tool and average power. Defensively he will likely move off shortstop, as his below-average speed and athleticism are subpar for the position. However, he has a strong arm and profiles well at third base. There are some rough edges to his game, but Neuse has a chance to develop into a league average regular at the hot corner, with the backup plan of moving him to the mound if he fails to hit.

On Day 1 of the MLB Draft, the Nationals did a nice job of adding to their inventory of talent, drafting two players from major college programs and a high school player well-known on the showcase circuit. I have watched both Kieboom and Dunning extensively – they were both solid value picks late in Round 1 and could have been selected several slots earlier. Personally I had Louisville catcher Will Smith and Mississippi State RHP Dakota Hudson ranked ahead of Kieboom and Dunning and would have taken them with those picks, but that is a minor quibble.

Additionally I like the Neuse pick in Round 2, although he does not seem like the typical Day 1 Mike Rizzo pick, being that he is not an elite athlete and does not possess a high ceiling. I might have preferred Washington gamble on Vanderbilt OF Bryan Reynolds or Ohio State OF Ronnie Lawson, but Neuse was a solid value at #58.

In conclusion Washington made three quality, shrewd selections on the first day of the MLB Draft. While I might have preferred other picks as mentioned at each slot, it is difficult to argue with the job the Nationals’ organization did Thursday night.

NatsGM Overall Grade -> Solid B

The reason causing infertility for severe endometriosis patients may be related to mental factors viagra sale mastercard and should be given psychological counseling. So, quite smoking to save the life of your sexuality and cialis properien best store potency in the bed. It might even imply presence of a lawyer. viagra without prescription more info here Erectile disorder can be learningworksca.org cialis 5mg no prescription basically defined as “incapacity to get appropriate treatment for diabetes. Today on Day 2 I would expect the Nationals to heavily target college players, particularly starting pitchers and outfielders, which is the depth of the college crop this year. I will foolishly make predictions for the Nationals’ picks today.

Round 3 – Kyle Funkhouser RHP University of Louisville

Round 4 – Garrett Hampson SS Long Beach State

Round 5 – Devin Smeltzer LHP San Jacinto JC

Round 6 – Connor Jones LHP University of Georgia

Round 7 – Mitchell Jordan RHP Stetson University

Round 8 – Vincent Jackson OF University of Tennessee

Round 9 – Boomer White 3B Texas A&M

Round 10 – Curtiss Pomeroy RHP Georgetown University

THE 2016 MLB Draft – Day 1 Live Blog

Posted on June 9, 2016 by Ryan Sullivan

Like a painful hangover on New Year’s Day, the 2016 MLB Draft has finally arrived! We are about 60 minutes from the beginning of the festivities, so please join me with your comments, questions, rants, beer recommendations or whatever else, as I will be here through all 77 picks tonight! I am predicting Alec Hansen RHP University of Oklahoma and Will Smith Catcher University of Louisville to Washington in Round 1 – who you do think the Nationals take?

6:45pm – Have heard from a couple people that Buddy Reed to Baltimore at #27 is very likely, if he is on the board. Local product 3B Joe Rizzo has been mentioned as well.

6:56pm – The draft has not technically started and I am already tired of listening to Harold Reynolds. His lack of player knowledge is insulting to people who actually watch and study these prospects. #Mute

7:05pm – Thinking Philly goes with Mickey Moniak 1st overall, with the Reds passing on A.J. Puk for Corey Ray or Nick Senzel.

7:10pm – Media reports have Moniak going #1, Senzel #2, Ian Anderson #3 to Altanta and Riley Pint #4 to Colorado. Those all make sense, though the speculation now begins as to whom Atlanta is targeting in the Comp rounds later tonight.

Phillies #1 Overall – > Mickey Moniak OF California HS

We wrote up Moniak on the site yesterday. This is a good pick in a year without a clear standout top talent. Moniak will stay in center field defensively with a strong arm and good speed. He shows strong barrel skills and should grow into some power down the line.

Reds #2 Overall -> Nick Senzel 3B University of Tennessee

Probably the best college hitter in this draft, Senzel has a quick, linear stroke which allows him to pepper the ball to all fields. Defensively there were questions about him to begin the year, but he did a nice job silencing critics and now profiles as a solid third baseman. I have heard plenty of “right-handed Bill Mueller” comparisons on Senzel, though the Reds believe he will grow into more power.

Braves #3 Overall -> Ian Anderson RHP New York HS

This pick has been rumored for several days, as the Braves apparently heavily scouted Anderson’s last start. Anderson had late helium as a northeast high schooler with a fresh arm and a fastball in the mid-90s. The Braves continue to collect high upside pitchers, and should have a good opportunity to add more talent later this evening as this projects to be a money-saving pick.

Rockies #4 Overall -> Riley Pint RHP Kansas HS

Pint has been heavily linked to Colorado for months. He possesses a mid-to-upper 90s fastball that has touched 100mph, along with a curveball and a changeup. There is big risk with high school pitchers with such incredible velocity, but that risk aside, Pint has a special arm and could develop into a #2/#3 starter in the future.

Brewers #5 Overall -> Corey Ray OF University of Louisville

If Senzel is not the most polished high school bat in this draft, then Ray is the choice. Ray has a short, compact left-handed swing which produces a quality hit tool and some surprising power. His arm is somewhat fringy, leading scouts to wonder if his future is in center or left field. Either way, his bat should profile at either position and he could move quickly through the minor leagues. Ray does not have a massive ceiling, but he has a very high floor.

7:40pm – Please excuse any typos or grammatical errors, I am typing extremely fast right now.

Athletics #6 Overall -> A.J. Puk LHP University of Florida

A physically imposing lefty who stands at 6-7 240lbs, Puk possesses a 93-97mph fastball with exceptional life, a powerful upper-80s slider with bend and a mid-to-upper-80s changeup. His mechanics are not the cleanest and he struggles with his command of the strike zone. However, when he is on, he has two plus-plus pitches and a solid-average changeup, allowing him to profile as #2 starter. That said his command issues could push him into a bullpen role if he cannot make the necessary adjustments.

Marlins #7 Overall -> Braxton Garrett LHP Alabama HS

Garrett to the Marlins has long been rumored, but those projections were often based on fellow HS LHP Jason Groome. Garrett has a low-90s fastball that can reach 95mph, along with perhaps the best curveball in the high school class.

Padres #8 Overall -> Cal Quantrill RHP Stanford

The son of former MLB pitcher Paul Quantrill, Cal was projected as the top pitcher in this class before an unfortunate elbow injury during his sophomore year, forcing him to undergo Tommy John surgery. He has not thrown a pitch in over a year, making this a very risky pick, but Quantrill has as much upside as anyone in this crop.

Tigers #9 Overall -> Matt Manning RHP California HS

An impressive two-sport athlete and a quality basketball player, Manning has a prototypical pitcher’s frame with projection remaining. In addition, he has a fastball that can touch 97mph and the potential for two average or better off-speed pitches. He supposedly has large bonus demands, which is something to watch when the Tigers begin negotiations.

White Sox #10 Overall -> Zack Collins Catcher University of Miami

Thought to be the fourth best college hitter behind Senzel, Ray and Kyle Lewis, scouts have few questions about his bat, as the left-handed hitter has raw power to all fields and a polished approach at the plate. Defensively there are questions about his ability to stay at catcher long-term, but he is a pure hitter.

Mariners #11 Overall -> Kyle Lewis OF Mercer University

After a standout season on Cape Cod last summer, Lewis built on that success this season for Mercer, destroying the Southern Conference. Lewis is a massively built, athletic looking kid who reminds of Jermaine Dye physically. He has good speed and a strong arm, allowing him to play a passable center field, but likely profiles in right field long-term. Offensively he has a long swing and some swing-and-miss, but Lewis has good power and has hit for average. Lewis has plenty of risk, but might have the highest ceiling in this class.

Red Sox #12 Overall -> Jason Groome LHP New Jersey HS

Perhaps the most talented prospect in this draft, Groome has slid down draft boards due to some concerns with his makeup and speculation of huge bonus demands. That said, Groome is a projectable 6-6 190lbs lefty with mid-90s velocity and a devastating curveball, plus a solid changeup. He will need development time in the minor leagues, but Groome could make the eleven teams ahead of Boston feel quick foolish in 5 years.

8:25pm -> My two favorite picks so far have been Corey Ray to the Brewers and Groome to the Red Sox. Also, we should see a nice run of college pitching here soon, with Dakota Hudson, Jordan Sheffield, Justin Dunn and others still available.

Rays #13 Overall -> Josh Lowe 3B Georgia HS

Lowe has an impressive physique at 6-4 190lbs and is an impressive two-way players as he was a legitimate prospect as a pitcher as well. But Lowe was drafted as a hitter and should be a quality third baseman, with a strong arm, good speed and some legitimate left-handed power. I am surprised he was picked over Blake Rutherford, but I really like Lowe’s long-term potential.

Indians #14 Overall -> Will Benson OF Georgia HS

Wow! I had heard Benson’s name quite frequently today, but it was more in the late teens to early twenties. Benson is a monster 6-6 220lbs frame with obvious athleticism, good speed and developing raw power from the left-side. He is quite raw, even for a high school hitter, but he has fantastic tools and could develop into an impact corner outfielder down the road.

Twins #15 Overall -> Alex Kirilloff OF Pennsylvania HS

Color me surprised by this pick, as I was fully expecting a college pitcher here to the Twins. That said I appreciate the Twins continuing to draft talent, especially high school athletes, and developing them slowly into big leaguers. Kirilloff has true raw power from the left side of the plate and has a cannon for an arm. He is raw and will need development time, but this is a intriguing prospect for the Twins to add to their organization.

Angels #16 Overall -> Matt Thaiss Catcher University of Virginia

I have written about Thaiss both yesterday and earlier today. He has a sweet left-handed swing with raw power to all fields and profiles to hit for average also. The questions to Thaiss’ game are his ability to block and receive the baseball, but has improved in his college career. He needs work defensively, but if he can develop those skills, he profiles as a quality starting catcher.

Astros #17 Overall -> Forest Whitley RHP Texas HS

A huge 6-7 220lbs righty, Whitley fits the profile of a first round Texas high school arm, possessing a massive fastball that can touch 97mph, the potential for a plus curveball and average changeup. He needs time to refine his mechanics and develop, but this is a big arm from Houston’s backyard.

Yankees #18 Overall -> Blake Rutherford OF California HS

Fantastic pick here by the Yankees, as they may have just picked the top high school hitter in this class. He has a sweet left-handed swing with barrel control and power. The questions with him are whether he may have to move to left field as he slows down and matures physically, but the bat should profile in a corner.

Mets #19 Overall -> Justin Dunn RHP Boston College

Started the season as a closer for the Eagles, Dunn had as much draft helium as any player after he shifted to the rotation as a starter. He was dominant down the stretch, with an electric mid-90s fastball and a powerful breaking ball. Dunn has a fresh arm as a northeast kid and the backup plan as a power reliever, but he has a chance to develop into a #3/#4 starter in the future. Good pick by the Mets.

Dodgers #20 Overall -> Gavin Lux SS Wisconsin HS

Lux has been rising steadily up draft boards in recent weeks, as he might be the best sure-fire shortstop in this draft crop. He is a quality athlete with a strong arm who profiles as a above-average to plus defender. In addition, he has some hit and power skills in his left-handed swing, profiling as perhaps an average hitter in the future.

Blue Jays #21 Overall -> T.J. Zeuch RHP University of Pittsburgh

Zeuch is a tall 6-7 projectable righty with a solid mid-90s fastball, curveball, changeup and slider. He is a bit more raw than the typical college pitcher and he is still growing into his frame, but Zeuch is a quality arm here at #21.

Pirates #22 Overall -> Will Craig RHP/3B Wake Forest University

Wow, I am surprised first and foremost that Craig was announced as a pitcher, as he was one of the top bats on the Cape last summer and performed well in the ACC this spring. That said he does have a monster arm and served as Wake’s closer this spring, with a fastball in the mid-90s. I do wonder if this is a mistake. (Edit – Yes, it was an error, he will be a third baseman).

Cardinals #23 Overall -> Delvin Perez SS Puerto Rico HS

This is truly a surprise, as Perez was recent busted for failing a drug test prior to the draft and was thought to be falling out of Day 1. On talent alone, he is the top middle infield prospect in this draft and should stay at shortstop as a professional. He is only 17-years-old and has plenty of projection remaining, but there is a chance he develops into an above-average two-way shortstop. The risk is large, but the upside reward is outstanding also.

Padres #24 Overall -> Hudson Sanchez SS Texas HS

Honestly have heard the name but this is the first player selected I have not seen play. Maybe this is a money saver pick for pick #8 or #25?

Padres #25 Overall -> Eric Lauer LHP Kent State University

Bummer, this is my personal cheeseball in this draft and was hoping Washington would select him. Lauer has an excellent 4-pitch repertoire highlighted by a fastball at 91-94mph with some cutting action, He is a quality athlete with a good frame built for pitching. He does not have a massive ceiling, but a high floor, making him a great value late in Round 1.

White Sox #26 Overall -> Zack Burdi RHP University of Louisville

The closer for Louisville this spring, Burdi has a fastball that can reach 100mph plus a nasty plus to plus-plus slider, along with the occasional changeup. He has some effort in his delivery, but not an excessive amount, and could be developed as a starter in the minors. He is most likely a closer long-term, but there is a chance he could start if the White Sox invest the development time in him.

Orioles #27 Overall -> Cody Sedlock RHP University of Illinois

A former closer for Illinois, Sedlock shifted to the rotation this season and watched his stock soar. He has a solid 4-pitch arsenal, featuring a 92-95mph fastball and an above-average slider, plus a fringy curveball and changeup. He will need to develop his ability to pitch deep into games and build up his innings count, but this is a strong pick for the Orioles.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS #28 Overall -> Carter Kieboom SS/3B Georgia HS

This pick should make plenty of Nationals’ fans happy, as his brother Spencer is a Double-A catcher for Washington. Kieboom has impressive bat speed and barrel control, allowing him to project for an above-average hit tool and average to above-average power in the future. There are questions as to his future defensive position, as he is unlikely to stay at shortstop. He has experience at third base and has seen time at catcher like his brother. This is an interesting project for Washington to develop.

Furthermore, I wrote up some scouting notes on Kieboom last summer -> http://natsgm.com/2015/08/27/armchair-evaluation-the-2015-under-armour-high-school-all-star-game/

WASHINGTON NATIONALS #29 Overall -> Dane Dunning RHP University of Florida

Dunning possesses a prototypical, projectable right-handed pitcher at 6-3 190lbs with a fastball that can reach the mid-90s, a mid-80s slider and the occasional changeup. He pitched extremely well in relief of A.J. Puk recently in front of dozens of scouts, giving him late helium in draft circles. I might have preferred Hudson to Dunning, but Dunning has a fresh, live arm with some upside remaining. This is a solid pick at the back of Round 1.

Rangers #30 Overall -> Cole Ragans LHP HS Florida HS

Ragans is a projectable high school lefty with a fastball that reaches the low-90s. He is a development project but has impressive tools to become a starting pitcher in several years.

Mets #31 Overall -> Anthony Kay LHP University of Connecticut

Big fan of Kay, a large left-handed pitcher who throws directly over the top and has a low-to-mid-90s fastball. Further, he has a changeup, curveball, and slider, and locates all these pitches well in the strike zone. He does not have a huge ceiling, but should pitch in the majors down the road.

Dodgers #32 Overall -> Will Smith Catcher University of Louisville

My prognostication for the Nationals at #29, Smith has skyrocketed up draft boards this spring, showing impressive defensive skills catching Louisville’s impressive pitching staff and some aptitude with the bat. He has a chance to become a average hitter and a above-average defender, making him a great value at #32.

Cardinals #33 Overall -> Dylan Carlson OF California HS

Carlson is a long, projectable switch-hitter with some raw power. I am surprised to see him picked here at #33 but there are a lot of tools involved with Carlson if you can develop him slowly.

Cardinals #34 Overall -> Dakota Hudson RHP Mississippi State University

Of course the Cardinals make the savvy pick to end Round 1 and select Hudson, one of my favorite players in this draft. Armed with a mid-90s fastball and a nasty plus upper-80s slider, Hudson also has a curveball and a changeup with some physical projection remaining. He possesses some below-average command, which will need refinement, but Hudson is a terrific value at #34.

Reds #35 Overall -> Taylor Trammell OF Georgia HS

Strong pick by the Reds here at #35, as there were rumors he could go in the teens. Trammell supposedly had large bonus demands, but with the Reds possessing the largest bonus pool, Trammell should sign with Cincinnati. This is a nice pick by Cincinnati.

Dodgers #36 Overall -> Jordan Sheffield RHP Vanderbilt University

Another quality pick by the Dodgers, who select an athletic college righty in Sheffield. He has below-average command and needs refinements to his delivery, but there is a chance he develops three above-average to plus pitches. He needs some development time, more than the average college arm, but he has good potential.

Athletics #37 Overall -> Daulton Jeffries RHP University of California Berkeley

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Rockies #38 Overall -> Robert Tyler RHP University of Georgia

A raw college pitcher with a fastball in the upper-90s, Tyler has a hard breaking ball and a decent changeup, leading some to believe his future is as a reliever. Either way, this is a good arm to add to the Rockies, who took Riley Pint earlier tonight.

Diamondbacks #39 Overall -> Anfernee Grier OF Auburn University

A personal favorite, Grier is a quality athlete who could stay in center field or move to shortstop in pro ball. He has excellent bat speed, outstanding raw pull power and has performed well in the SEC the past couple years, making him a terrific pick by the Dbacks.

Braves #40 Overall ->Joey Wentz LHP Kansas HS

The 2nd best high school pitcher in Kansas, behind Riley Pint, Wentz has a live arm and a quality 3-pitch mix. He repeats his delivery well and is more advanced than the typical high school pitcher.

Pirates #41 Overall -> Nick Lodolo LHP California HS

Lodolo is a tall projectable lefty who I remember watching last summer in one of the high school all-star games. He has a upper-80s to low-90s fastball and throws from a high three-quarters arm slot. He needs to add strength and some additional velocity, but the Pirates have a nice track record of developing high school arms.

Phillies #42 Overall -> Kevin Gowdy RHP California HS

Gowdy was impressive last summer in the PG National All-Star game classic and continued to perform well this spring. He is a projectable right-hander with a repeatable delivery and a fastball in the low-90s.

Reds #43 Overall -> Chris Okey Catcher Clemson University

Okey has been a three year starter for Clemson as a catcher and has been a productive two-way player for the Tigers. He is a solid catch-and-throw catcher with good defensive skills, and has some tools at the plate. He can make good contact, will take a walk and has some pull power.

Braves #44 Overall -> Kyle Muller LHP Texas HS

Muller is simply huge, sitting bigger than his listed 6-5 220lbs frame. He has a big fastball like all Texans and has some the makings of some off-speed offerings also. The Braves continue to collect projectable, talented, raw arms.

Rockies #45 Overall -> Ben Bowden LHP Vanderbilt University

Bowden has a big fastball and a tough slider, making him a natural fit in the bullpen. He has a solid, compact motion, but the lack of a changeup worries me about his future as a starter. I like his arm and think his future is as a quick-moving reliever.

Brewers #46 Overall -> Lucas Erceg 3B Menlo College

A well-known name in prospect circles, I have never seen him play, as he transferred from UC Berkeley to Menlo College last year.

Athletics #47 Overall -> Logan Shore RHP University of Florida

Oakland love polished college arms, and Shore is as polished as they come. Shore has a low-90s fastball which he locates for strikes, plus a curveball and a changeup. He does not have a huge ceiling, but he is a competitor who should develop into a #4/5 starter in the big leagues.

Padres #48 Overall -> Buddy Reed OF University of Florida

A terrific athlete, Reed entered the season atop many lists as the top available college hitter, but struggles making contact had him slide down boards to #48 overall. He has four strong, evident and loud tools, but there are real questions if he will hit. If he can hit .260-.275, he’s a major league starter in center field.

White Sox #49 Overall -> Alec Hansen RHP University of Oklahoma

I wrote about Hansen earlier today. Hansen began the year as one of the names competing to be selected 1-1, but a rough season for the Sooners caused him to slip into Round 2. There is plenty of risk and reward with this selection, but a nice gamble here at #49.

Mariners #50 Overall -> Joe Rizzo 3B Virginia HS

A local favorite, Rizzo is not the tallest player, but he has a sweet left-handed swing with excellent barrel skills and emerging power. He is not the best defender at third base, but he can develop into a passable defender with effort. I like the bat and think he will hit his way to the big leagues.

Red Sox #51 Overall -> C.J. Chatham SS Florida Atlantic

Chatham made an impression last summer on Cape Cod, continually sticking out on the games I would watch. He is bigger than the usual shortstop, but he has a strong arm and should be able to stay there in pro ball. He has some pull power, but does not project to be a great hitter.

Diamondbacks #52 Overall -> Andy Yerzy Catcher Canada HS

I recognize the name but do not know his game.

Rays #53 Overall -> Ryan Boldt CF University of Nebraska

I personally scouted him in April 2015 when Nebraska visited Maryland for a weekend series. Boldt has good speed and a strong arm, allowing him to profile as an above-average to plus defensive center fielder. Offensively he has hit for an average in college and last summer on the Cape, but has not shown the power he displays in batting practice. There is some risk in his profile, particularly offensively, but this is a nice value pick for Tampa Bay.

Orioles #54 Overall -> Keegan Akin LHP Western Michigan

Akin has been flying up boards this spring, especially after a strong performance in a head-to-head matchup against Eric Lauer this spring. There are questions if he is a starter or reliever long-term due to his size, but he has a legitimate mid-90s fastball, an average changeup and an inconsistent curveball. This is another solid pick for the Orioles on Day 1.

Indians #55 Overall -> Nolan Jones SS/3B Pennsylvania

This is a nice value pick by Cleveland, as many expected Jones to be picked closer to #25 overall. Jones is a quality athlete with a sweet left-handed swing with some electric bat speed. He will likely require an overslot bonus, but if Cleveland can sign him, they will be quite pleased to add him to their farm system.

Twins #56 Overall -> Ben Rortvedt Catcher Wisconsin HS

A favorite of former THE NatsGM Show guest Nick J. Faleris, Rortvedt has a great last name to match his equally sweet swing. He should stay behind the dish long-term and he has some hitting skills, making him a good pick for the Twins.

Blue Jays #57 Overall -> J.B. Woodman OF University of Mississippi

Woodman lead the SEC in home runs this season, quietly leading the Gamecocks to a National seed. There are questions if he will stay in center field or if he will need to shift to a corner outfield, but his left-handed bat and power should allow him to be a good 4th outfielder or fringe starting outfielder.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS #58 Overall -> Sheldon Neuse 3B University of Oklahoma

Neuse is a two-way player, who many scouts projected as a right-handed relief prospect due to his 95mph fastball and hard biting slider. However, Neuse is drafted as a third baseman after playing shortstop for Oklahoma, as he has below to fringe-average speed and a powerful arm, making him a natural profile at third base. Offensively his swing can get long, but he has solid barrel skills when he wants to and has some power. His struggles last summer on Cape Cod took some luster off his profile, but Neuse has a chance to be a solid regular at third base.

Giants #59 Overall -> Bryan Reynolds OF Vanderbilt University

A terrific player for the Commodores, Reynolds is a switch-hitter with power from both sides and a chance to stay in center field as a professional. He is not a great athlete, so he likely shifts to a corner, but the bat should get him to the majors.

Angels #60 Overall -> Brandon Marsh OF Georgia HS

Marsh has the reputation as an outstanding athlete and a raw baseball player.

Astros #61 Overall -> Ronnie Dawson OF/1B Ohio State

A left-handed hitter who punished pitching on the Cape last summer and the Big 10 this spring, Dawson has some legitimate raw power in his left-handed swing. He has a thick body but is a better athlete than you might immediately expect. He is probably fits best in left field, putting some pressure on his bat.

Yankees #62 Overall -> Nick Solak 2B University of Louisville

Solak is limited defensively to second base, but he is a pure hitter who has consistently produced both at Louisville and last summer on the Cape. The defensive profile limits his ceiling, but he can flat rake and remind a little of the “old” Daniel Murphy.

Rangers #63 Overall -> Alex Speas RHP Georgia HS

Speas performed well last summer on the prospect showcase and has a fastball that can reach the mid-90s. Like all high school arms, he needs development, but I really liked his arm when I watched him last year.

Mets #64 Overall -> Peter Alonso 1B/RHP University of Florida

Limited defensively to first base, Alonso has good power to all fields and has shown the ability to draw walks. There is some swing-and-miss in his profile, but his production in the SEC is hard to overlook.

Dodgers #65 Overall -> Mitchell White RHP Santa Clara

White has been gaining momentum this spring and climbing draft boards on the back of his success in the West Coast Conference. He has a fastball that can reach the mid-90s and has a projectable 6-4 body. White is raw but there is real upside of a mid-rotation starter if things come together with him.

Blue Jays #66 Overall -> Bo Bichette 3B Florida HS

The son of Dante Bichette, Bo is one of the top high school hitters in this crop, as he can flat out rake. He has a sweet right-handed swing with real raw power and an advanced approach at the plate. He might have to move to the outfield in the future, but if the bat develops as anticipated, he could be an above-average hitter with some power and speed as well.

Royals #67 Overall -> A.J. Puckett RHP Pepperdine University

Another in the tremendous class of WCC pitchers this year, Puckett performed well on the Cape last summer and continued that success this spring for Pepperdine. Puckett has good command of his fastball and changeup, without elite velocity or a plus breaking pitch. His ability to command the zone gives him the profile of a back-end starter.

Pirates #68 Overall -> Travis MacGregor RHP Florida HS

Once again, I recognize the name but do not know much about him. The Pirates like to develop high school arms and this is another to add to their stock.

Orioles #69 Overall -> Mathhias Dietz RHP Illinois Junior College

Dietz is probably the top JuCo prospect available this year, with a huge frame and a fastball that can touch the mid-90s. He is raw and could profile better in relief, but his prototypical size and velocity is a nice “starter kit” for the Orioles to develop.

Cardinals #70 Overall -> Connor Jones RHP University of Virginia

Tremendous pick and the Cardinals are officially crushing Day 1. Jones does not have a huge ceiling, but he has a solid 4-pitch arsenal and his above-average command allows those pitches to “play up”. He does not have elite velocity or a plus breaking ball, but his ability to throw strikes and compete make him a nice #4/#5 starting pitching prospect.

Padres #71 Overall -> Reggie Lawson RHP California HS

Lawson was quite impressive last summer in the Perfect Game All-American Game, showing off a projectable body, a low-90s fastball and the potential for a curveball and changeup. He was injured some this spring and is raw, but this is a nice arm for the Padres to pick late on Day 1.

Indians #72 Overall -> Logan Ice Catcher Oregon State

In the discussion for the top name in this draft, Ice is a switch-hitting catcher who is much leaner than the average catcher. He is athletic, but one would expect him to add mass to help his durability defensively. Ice does not profile to have much power, but he has a good hit tool and the ability to get on-base, making him a nice catching prospect.

Twins #73 Overall -> Jose Miranda SS Puerto Rico

I know precious little about him, except his bat is ahead of his glove.

Twins #74 Overall -> Akil Baddoo Georgia HS

Known for his package of tools, Baddon has the potential to be a five tool player if everything comes together. He is extremely raw and the swing is not the prettiest, but he has a power/speed combination difficult to find in the draft.

Brewers #75 Overall -> Mario Feliciano Catcher Puerto Rico

Feliciano has big raw pull power and a strong arm, along with surprising speed and athleticism for a catcher.

Braves #76 Overall -> Brett Cumberland Catcher University of California Berkeley

An extremely productive player this season for the Golden Bears, Cumberland has been climbing draft boards all spring. He has a good swing with a thick frame and could stay behind the plate, but scouts question if his long-term position is somewhere other than catcher.

Rays #77 Overall -> Jake Fraley OF Louisiana State University

Fraley stepped into the LSU starting lineup this season, taking over for the departed Andrew Stevenson, and helped the Tigers not miss a beat. He has a left-handed swing with good contact skills and probably profiles best as a 4th outfielder, rather than a regular in center. That said, he has performed well in the SEC this season and has a chance to outperform this draft position if he can remain in center field.

*** AND Day 1 of the MLB Draft is now complete! Thank you for joining me this evening. I will be back tomorrow morning with my analysis of the Nationals’ selections and at 12:30pm EST to Live Blog Day 2 of the MLB Draft. Bye for now! ***