We are back LIVE LIVE LIVE from the NatsGM Studios to Live Blog the final day of the 2014 MLB Draft in style.  Although I was beginning to see double late yesterday, I have fully recovered and I am now ready to attack these last 30 Rounds like Ian Desmond does 1st pitch fastballs.

Through the first 10 rounds of the draft, the Nationals have selected 4 College Pitchers (3 RHP and 1 LHP), 1 JuCo Pitcher (RHP), 3 College Senior Outfielders, 1 College Junior Infielder, and 1 High School Catcher.  I anticipate the Nationals looking to add high school athletes and/or hitters early on Day 3, with the later picks this afternoon used on pitchers with velocity and some college bats.

I will be here all afternoon Live Blogging this final day of the draft.  I will primarily focus on the Nationals selections, but if you have questions or comments about other teams, I am happy to discuss that as well.  Frankly with 900+ players being drafted today, I am happy to talk about most whatever you want, so join me via the Comments Section, on Twitter @NatsGMdotcom, or email at NationalsGM@gmail.com.

12:55pm – Here are a few (reasonable) names I hope the Nationals select today: University of Florida RHP Karsten Whitson, University of Maryland OF Charlie White, University of Maryland LHP Ben Brewster, University of Georgia OF Hunter Cole, and Illinois State RHP Dan Savas.

1:00pm – We are LIVE!  I am excited to get started.

1:06pm – Nice to see both Jordan Brink and Tanner English go quickly on Day 3… Both have a chance to make the majors.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 11 Pick #334  Weston Davis RHP Florida HS

A projectable right-handed pitcher at 6-4 185lbs, Davis is committed to the University of Florida next fall, making him a possibly difficult to sign prospect with that leverage.  The Nationals would be thrilled to sign him away from Gainesville.  According to reports, Davis has a low-90s Fastball, along with a promising Curveball and Changeup.

1:16pm – Bummer that Karsten Whitson just went to Boston at the end of Round 11.  I was hoping the Nationals could scoop him up today.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 12 Pick #364  Dominic Mancini RHP Miami Dade CC

A rising prospect in South Florida this spring, Mancini started the season throwing 92-94mph, touching 97mph, and immediately caught the attention of scouts.  He is committed to Florida Atlantic next year, so it will be interesting to see if he signs.  Intriguing arm in Round 12.

1:27pm – One of the Nationals area scouts in Florida is having quite a day thus far, getting two players early on Day 3.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 13 Pick #394  Austin Davidson 3B Pepperdine University

A junior third baseman from Pepperdine, Davidson has struggled in his three years in college to post the type of numbers to match his tools.  Davidson is a left-handed hitter and performed well last summer in the Cape Cod League, leaving scouts to believe in his skills.  Good pick by Washington.

1:39pm – Tangent alert… But I have the Maryland vs UVA baseball game on in the background, and I am so proud of the Terps team and their hard-working spirit.  Here’s hoping they can pull out today’s game.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 14 Pick #424  James Bourque RHP University of Michigan

Bourque is a junior righty from the University of Michigan listed at a lean 6-4 185lbs, and pitched primarily in relief this season.  Bourque is spending this summer pitching in Cape Cod, but might be signable away from the Wolverines  later this summer.

1:50pm – Interesting the Nationals have yet to draft a college senior today… Not surprising necessarily, but a bit surprising.  I expect to see the Nationals select some college bats here in the next few picks.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 15 Pick #454  Ryan Ripken 1B Indian River JC

Ripken is the son of Hall of Famer Cal, but is a unique and different player than his father, as he bats left-handed and plays on the right-side of the infielder.  Limited athletically to first base, Ripken has good bat-to-ball skills, but there are questions if he will develop power.  It will be interesting to see if he signs with Washington.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 16 Pick #484  Cole Plouck LHP Pima CC

A left-handed pitcher described as having a quick arm, along with an 89-90mph fastball, curveball, and changeup.  Projectable, young lefties who can throw 90s are always a good selection of Day 3 of the draft.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 17 Pick #514  Alec Keller CF Princeton University

Keller is a 6-1 185lbs college senior who bats left-handed and throws righty.  Keller has batted over .300 three consecutive seasons in the Ivy League, though he does not seem to show much power with only 6 total home runs.  Keller is the 4th senior outfielder the Nationals have drafted thus far in 2014.

2:21pm – Looks like we’ve reached the point in the draft where teams are taking numerous college hitters to fill out some minor league rosters.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 18 Pick #544  MacKenzie Mills LHP Georgia HS

A massive left-handed pitcher listed at 6-4 215lbs, Mills is a high school pitcher with a college commitment to Alabama State.  According to internet reports, Mills throws an 88-90mph fastball, along with a curveball and a changeup.  Mills would be a terrific pickup if the Nationals are able to sign him.

2:32pm – According to a good friend of mine, and a sharp baseball mind Doug Wachter @SaberByTheBay, is an expect on Michigan baseball and sent me this Twitter scouting report on 14th round pick, James Bourque.

“@NatsGMdotcom (He’s a) righty with size, versatility… Has started and relieved, pretty good fb, somewhat deceptive delivery. Hides the ball.”

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 19 Pick #574  Clay Williamson RF California State Fullerton

Williamson is a polished collegiate left-handed bat who showed a propensity to hit with wood bats last summer in the Northwoods League.  He does not have much power, but seems to have some speed and contact ability.

2:44pm – The Mariners just took former Nationals draft pick, and current Ole’ Miss RHP Hawtin Buchanan in Round 20.  Wonder if Seattle can get that big arm to sign?…

2:47pm – Local Northern Virginia product and UNC commit JB Bukauskas was just selected at pick #600 by the Diamondbacks – Looks like he will be spending the next 3 years at Chapel Hill.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 20 Pick #604  Bryan Langlois RF Pepperdine University

The Nationals 2nd selection of the day from Pepperdine (congrats to that area scout!), Langlois is a redshirt-junior who showed impressive skills last summer in the California Collegiate Baseball League, making their All-Star team.  A right-handed hitter, Langlois batted .283 with 3 home runs and 6 stolen bases this season for the Green Wave.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 21 Pick #634  Connor Bach LHP Virginia Military Institute

Wow, a blast from the past, as Bach pitched in the local collegiate summer league the Cal Ripken League for the Vienna Riverdogs.  A huge 6-6 225lbs lefty with a quality fastball and a tremendous amount of deception in his pitching motion.  I like this pick, as I remember writing some complimentary things in my notes about Bach in the past.

3:08pm – Guess what I just found… A scouting report about 21st Round pick Connor Bach from two summers ago.  I published these notes on July 17, 2012.

“(Bach)… Although the pitching talent in the Ripken league trails the hitters this summer, VMI  junior left-handed pitcher Connor Bach is an interesting name to remember, as his 6-5 210lbs. frame has plenty of projection left and he owns a low-90s fastball and flashes a decent breaking pitch.  In his 26.2 innings pitched this summer for the Vienna River Dogs, Wade has a 6.08 ERA with 44 strikeouts against 19 walks and 27 hits allowed; his below-average command and lack of polish are major impediments to his current success, but his size, fastball velocity, and vast room for improvement will keep him on scout’s radars next spring.”

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 22 Pick #664  Daniel Salters Catcher Dallas Baptist University

Salters is listed as a 6-3 220lbs sophomore catcher, who is a left-handed hitter who batted .253 with 6 home runs in 2014.  The Nationals have only drafted one catcher thus far, so Salters stands a good chance of signing in the next few weeks.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 23 Pick #694  Chris Riopedre Shortstop East Tennessee State

A smallish junior shortstop, Riopedre started 57 games for ETSU this season, batting .280 with 5 home runs.  This appears to be the first pure middle infielder the Nationals have selected, so if he signs, he should receive as much playing time as he can handle.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 24 Pick #724  Kyle Simmons RHP Texas Lutheran

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WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 25 Pick #754  Kyle Bacak Catcher Texas Christian University

Bacak is a senior catcher who spent his first two years of his college career at San Jacinto JC before transferring to TCU.  Bacak only batted .257 this year with 0 home runs, though he did have an impressive .992% fielding percentage.  He should sign quickly and likely spend much of his summer at Auburn.

3:49pm- BANG ZOOM Go Those Fireworks, as Maryland upsets UVA 5-4.  Gutsy performance by 2nd round pick Jake Stinnett today, and now the Terps need a massive performance tomorrow from freshman Mike Shawaryn.  Congrats to Maryland on another BIG win!

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 26 Pick #784  Chase McDowell RHP Rice University

McDowell is a talented two-way senior for the Owls, but the Nationals selected him as a pitcher.  McDowell posted a 3.60 ERA in 65 innings this season, and should pitch for the Auburn Doubledays this summer.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 27 Pick #814  Connor Keniry Shortstop Wake Forest University

A senior, Keniry is a slick-fielding middle infielder who has spent time at both shortstop and second base in his career at Wake Forest.  His versatility, along with his left-handed bat, should make him a valuable mainstay on one of the Nationals minor league affiliates.

4:31pm – Johnny Manziel, yes, Johnny Football, just went to the San Diego Padres with pick #837 of the 28th Round.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 28 Pick #844  Kida De La Cruz RHP Volunteer State CC

Listed as 6-5 220lbs (think the Nationals have a type?), De La Cruz has been a 2-way prospect much of his career.  De La Cruz posted a 5.15 ERA with 42 strikeouts in 50.2 innings this season.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 29 Pick #874  DJ Jauss RHP University of Massachusetts

The son of a long-time professional scout, Jauss is a well-built 6-2 205lbs senior.  Jauss posted a 4.82 ERA in 18.2 innings pitched this season and should serve as another polished collegiate arm for the Doubledays this summer.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 30 Pick #904 Tyler Mapes RHP Tulane University

Another physical senior right-handed pitcher, Mapes lead the Green Wave with a 2.20 ERA and 59 strikeouts in 81.2 innings pitched this season.

5:00pm – Need to take the dogs for a walk, be back shortly.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 31 Pick #934  Samuel Johns RHP Evansville University

Like Mapes above him, Johns is a thickly, well-built right-handed redshirt senior pitcher from a 4-year school.  Johns this season pitched exclusively in relief, posting a 5.87 ERA and 25 strikeouts in his 30.2 innings pitched.

5:23pm – The Phillies just selected Tom Flacco, a high school athlete who also happens to be the brother of Baltimore Ravens Super Bowl winning QB Joe Flacco.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 32 Pick #964  Elliott Cary OF Oregon HS

The first high school player we have seen the Nationals select since Round 18, Cary is a toolsy, athletic centerfield prospect who has a strong college commitment to Oregon State.  The Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year in 2014 for the state of Oregon, Cary is expected to don a Beavers uniform next fall, and should be a top prospect in 3 years for the 2017 Draft.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 33 Pick #994  Clay Casey OF Mississippi HS

Back to back high school hitters for the Nationals, who choose Casey here in Round 33.  A strong Ole’ Miss commit, the powerfully built 6-3 205lbs Casey is highly unlikely to sign with Washington.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 34 Pick #1,024  Evan Skoud Catcher Illinois High School

A powerfully built high school catcher, Skoud has a college commitment to Texas Christian University, meaning he is the third consecutive player taken by the Nationals who is unlikely to sign with them.  This should, however, be a name to remember in 3 years.

6:06pm – Just saw local product DeMatha HS Catcher Justin Morris selected midway through Round 35 by the Diamondbacks.  I thought Morris would be signable if drafted early yesterday, but now it looks like he will head to College Park and will be a Terp!

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 35 Pick #1,054 Tommy Doyle RHP FLINT HILL HS

A local product from Northern Virginia, Doyle has a rock-solid commitment to the University of Virginia and will head to Charlottesville.  A large, lanky kid with a fastball in the low-90s, Doyle was thought to be signable through about Round 3.  Congrats to Tommy on being selected by the local Nationals!

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 36 Pick #1,084  John Henry Styles LHP Texas HS

A smaller left-handed pitcher at 5-11 180lbs, this Texas high school prospect has a commitment to Stanford University in the fall, another college that rarely loses their late-round draftees.

Hopefully the Nationals are able to sign one of these high school prospects they have taken in the past few rounds, as it could/would bolster an already impressive class.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 37 Pick #1,114  Quinn Brodey LHP California HS

Like Styles above him, Brodey is a high school left-handed pitcher committed to Stanford University.  A 2-way player in high school with power, Brodey will continue on to Palo Alto in the fall and likely form a strong freshman left-handed combination with John Henry Styles.

6:45pm – That’s 6 consecutive high school picks for the Nationals, all seen as heavily committed to college.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 38 Pick #1,144  Stuart Fairchild RF Washington HS

An athletic outfielder from the Seattle area of Washington state, Fairchild has excellent speed and a college commitment to Wake Forest University.  Of the recent picks, he might be the most likely to sign with the Nationals, but the odds are still long he does not reach Winston-Salem.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 39 Pick #1,174  Jon Littell OF Oklahoma HS

Another large, athletic high school hitter, Littell has monster home run power and can play either 3B or OF.  An Oklahoma kid committed to Oklahoma State to play baseball, it is unlikely he will wear a Nationals uniform this summer.

7:11pm – Final Round Everyone!!  Thank you to everyone who has joined me today and the past three days, it was truly my pleasure.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS Select Round 40 Pick #1,204  Jacob Hill LHP Orange Coast College

The first non-high school prospect in a few hours, Hill is a physical left-handed pitcher from a junior college in California.  The Nationals have not selected many lefties, especially college lefties,  during the draft so perhaps Hill signs with the Nationals and finds some innings with an affiliate this summer.

7:24pm – We are FINISHED!!  3 Days, 40 Rounds, and 1,300+ picks but together we made it through the entire draft!  Again I want to thank each and every person who joined me during this 3-Day Live Blog.

If you have further comments or questions, you can leave them in the Comments Section, on Twitter @NatsGMdotcom, or via email at NationalsGM@Gmail.com.

 

Guess who’s back… Back again… NatsGM’s back, back, back… Tell a Friend!

And we are LIVE in the NatsGM Studios to grind through and celebrate Day 2 of the 2014 MLB Draft.  Today the teams will make picks in Rounds 3 through Round 10, meaning there will be about 250 players selected this afternoon.

The Nationals used their first two selections yesterday on college pitchers, taking UNLV’s Erick Fedde in Round 1 and Miami’s Andrew Suarez in Round 2.  Look for the Nats to shift their attention to some hitters with their early picks today, although the strength of this draft is still right-handed pitching.

Please join me today with your questions, comments, jokes, and snark either in the Comment’s Section, on Twitter @NatsGMdotcom, or on Facebook NatsGM.  So as Michael Buffer would say, “Let’s Get Ready To Rumble”!

1:03pm – Houston is on the clock and Day 2 has officially started!

1:09pm – Astros make a nice selection taking power hitting 1B JD Davis to open Day 2.  He has some swing-and-miss in his game, but he has true light-tower power.  This is a nice value in Round 3.

1:11pm – The Chicago White Sox continue to impress me with their 2014 draft haul, selecting Oregon State LHP Jace Fry at #77 in Round 3.  He is a Tommy John survivor, but he has a power arsenal and has a chance to start in the majors.  Nice pick!

1:18pm – Plenty of solid college names coming off the board early, with Michael Cederoth going to Minnesota and Sam Howard picked by Colorado.  Look for a high school pitching run to start relatively soon.

1:23pm – Strangely excited to see who the Orioles select with their 1st choice in the draft at #90.

1:29pm – Brian Gonzalez, a promising Florida high school lefty goes to the Orioles in the 3rd round.  A strong pick, with plenty of projection remaining, here in the middle of Round 3.

1:33pm – Please Nationals front office, I love the Nebraska HS catcher Jakson Reetz, take him here.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS  Round 3 Pick #93 – Jakson Reetz Catcher Nebraska HS

Boom, nailed this pick on Twitter and a few minutes ago.  A terrific athlete with an outstanding work ethic, he might be the best high school catcher in this draft.  He will stay behind the plate as a professional, and Reetz immediately jumps into the top-10 prospects for the Nats.  Outstanding pick!

1:36pm – The Nationals are crushing this draft thus far.  It is difficult for me to express how pleased I am with their first 3 picks.

1:40pm – If you want to become more well-acquainted with new Nationals prospect Jakson Reetz, Baseball America did an outstanding “Day in the Life” feature on him earlier this spring.  It is definitely worth the Google search to find it.

1:43pm – Great pick by the Tigers at #99 selecting South Carolina catcher Grayson Greiner.  He is a strong defensive catcher with a developing bat, and a terrific value in Round 3.

1:51pm – Hoping the Nationals select University of Texas right-handed pitcher John Curtiss in Round 4.  Jim Callis mentioned him on Episode 1 of THE NatsGM Show as a personal favorite of his, and Simms would be an excellent value.

1:55pm – I am LOVING the White Sox draft thus far, as they make another strong selection grabbing Brett Austin from NC State in Round 4.  I am not sure he’s a catcher, but I would put him in a corner outfield position and let his bat hit his way to the majors.  Nice value outside the top-100.

2:07pm – Must say I am surprised to see Calvert Hall HS Troy Stokes getting popped before Stone Bridge HS RHP JB Bukauskas.  Too bad for the University of Maryland, as it is unlikely now that the Terrapin-commit Stokes will play college baseball.

2:13pm – Orioles just took a project in Notre Dame RHP Tom Connaughton, who was also a good basketball player for the Irish also.  Very raw due to his 2-sport skills, he has a chance to flourish once he focuses primarily on baseball.  Interesting pick in Round 4 for the Orioles.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS  Round 4  Pick #124 Robbie Dickey RHP Blinn College

Known as perhaps the best Junior College pitching prospect in the nation this season, Dickey is a raw pitcher with good size and a monster fastball that can reach the mid-90s.  He reminds me a bit of 2013 Nationals 4th Round pick Nic Pivetta, a raw junior college pitcher with potential to dream on.  There are other arms I may have preferred in this spot, but Dickey is an intriguing value in Round 4.

2:26pm – I am already dreaming on that beer during the intermission between Rounds 5 and 6.  Thinking of going with a Rogue Dead Guy Ale.

2:28pm – VERY BIG fan of the Taylor Gushue pick, a young catcher from the University of Florida, by the Pirates in Round 4.  He is a switch-hitter and an excellent chance to stay behind the plate.  Gushue is the rare college player with significant upside potential and is a personal favorite of mine, nice pick Pittsburgh!

2:45pm – I am a HUGE fan of the uncomfortable “chop-busting” going on between Jonathan Mayo and Jim Callis… Makes the draft more entertaining.

2:47pm – The Mets get a nice pick here in Round 5 with Seton Hall RHP Josh Prevost.  I watched him against Georgetown this spring, and he has a ideal pitcher’s frame and a power fastball.  As a senior he should be easy to sign and has a chance to advance through the minors.

2:51pm – John Curtiss is still on the clock and the Nats pick soon… Just sayin-

WASHINGTON NATIONALS  Round 5 Pick #154 Drew Van Orden RHP Duke University

Even though he is a Blue Devil, Van Orden put up solid numbers this season for Duke, and as a senior sign, should be a quick and inexpensive prospect to sign.  With a low-90s fastball and a reasonable breaking pitch, he could blossom as a reliever in the future.  This is a solid prospect and a good pick, as he could help insure the Nationals are able to sign Erick Fedde and Jakson Reetz, who are expected to be more difficult signs.

3:09pm – Excellent value pick by the Detroit Tigers late in Round 5, taking UCLA catcher Shane Zeile, nephew of former major leaguer Todd Zeile.  He is new to catching but he shows promise behind the plate, and he has a solid swing.  If he can stay as a catcher, this could be a terrific pick in a few years.

3:15pm – Halftime of Day 2, aka Beer Time!

3:25pm – They’re about to start Round 6, and the depth of the draft is readily apparent, as there are plenty of solid pitchers still on the board.  In addition, there are a number of college seniors who lack leverage but are talented players worthy of an opportunity.  Expect the Nationals to continue to draft college seniors, along with a few more bats this afternoon.

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3:35pm – Bummer, my man John Curtiss just went to the Twins early in the 6th round.  Outstanding value pick by Minnesota, who have been collecting hard throwing arms in this draft like kids collect Nikes.

3:48pm – Tangent alert… Congratulations to Baltimore Orioles prospect Tim Berry on receiving a call to the major leagues.  A personal favorite of mine, here is an action shot of Barry from last May at Frederick.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS  Select Round 6 Pick #184  Austen Williams RHP Texas State University

The Nationals select Austen Williams in Round 6, a pitcher with a solid fastball in the low-90s and an inconsistent but at times promising slider.  According to reports he has an awkward arm action, along with a lack of a 3rd pitch, portending a future as a reliever.  The Nationals really scout Texas thoroughly and have found some interesting arms there in recent years, so perhaps an area scout has found another gem here with Williams.

3:59pm – The Nationals have selected 5 college pitchers and 1 high school catcher through 6 rounds.  I must admit, this is an interesting breakdown but the strengths of the 2014 draft are pitching and catchers.

4:14pm – I am predicting a college bat, most likely a senior, for the Nationals here in Round 7.

4:16pm – James Norwood, a power right-handed pitcher for St. Louis, was just selected by the Cubs in Round 7.  I watched him pitch this spring, albeit only briefly, but he has a quality arm and his fastball alone should have had him drafted inside the top 5 rounds.  Nice pick from the Cubbies.

4:24pm – Nats fans, keep focusing on these Day 2 picks, as they are quite important and can help build depth throughout your organization.  Recent Nationals picks in this area of the draft include Aaron Barrett, Blake Treinen, and Craig Stammen, amongst others.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS  Select Round 7 Pick #214  Dale Carey CF University of Miami

BOOM!  Nailed this pick about 30 minutes ago, albeit for Round 6.  Carey has long been a prospect, but has struggled to put his immense tools into production on the field.  After 3 sluggish years in college, Carey made significant progress as a senior this year, and put some production on the scoresheet.  Carey is a senior, so he lacks negotiating leverage, but this is an atypical college senior who still has plenty of upside.  I really like this pick, especially considering the possible financial savings, here in Round 7.

4:44pm – Pretty good chance we see the Nationals take 2-3 more college seniors today, as they will need/want some financial flexibility in negotiations for Fedde, Reetz, and Day 3 prospects.

4:48pm – Karsten Whitson would make A TON of sense in Round 8 for the Nationals, as they took him last year and like to gamble on talented, but injury-prone pitchers.

4:51pm – Atlanta just selected Luke Dykstra, son of Lenny and brother of Cutter, who was expected to be a difficult to sign prospect from Harvard-Westlake HS.  If the Braves can sign him, this is a terrific pick at the end of Round 7.

4:59pm – Who out there is drinking?  What do you think about the Nationals draft so far?  How has my coverage been?  Let me know in the Comment’s Section.

5:06pm – One of my favorite picks of Day 2 just occurred, as Toronto selected Justin Shafer from the University of Florida.  A 2-way player, he was drafted for his arm on the mound.  Shafer is definitely raw, but he has a big arm and I have seen a decent slider from him.  Another good pick from the Blue Jays thus far.

 WASHINGTON NATIONALS  Select  Round 8 Pick #244  Jeff Gardner LF University of Louisville

Another senior outfielder with a productive track record of success in college, Gardner is a well-built left-handed hitter with some thump in his bat.  He is limited to left field, with fringy speed and a reasonable arm, so Gardner will need his bat to carry him to the major leagues.  Another good pick for the Nationals, especially considering the financial implications involved with drafting a college senior.

5:41pm – I love it when the announcers on the MLB Draft broadcast are stumped on a player.  Unreal Unintentional Comedy!

6:00pm – No one love the MLB Draft more than I do, but Day 2 moves life elderly golfers playing twilight golf.  Wow!

WASHINGTON NATIONALS  Select Round 9 Pick #274  Austin Byler 1B University of Nevada

This is a pleasant surprise to see Byler here late in Round 9, as Byler has power in his left-handed bat and has shown good contact skills as well.  Although he has played third base in the past, Byler is most likely a first baseman as a professional.  A bat-first prospect, Byler could have been drafted a few rounds earlier, and I am curious/hopeful the Nationals are able to sign him.

6:13pm – Feel like I have said this a few times today, but the Tigers made another nice pick choosing Mississippi RHP Josh Laxer, a former Nationals draft pick, in Round 9.  He has a big fastball and a promising, hard slider, so he could be a solid reliever in the future.

6:20pm – Makes almost too much sense for the Nationals, and most teams, to take college seniors throughout round 10, considering the financial obligations and differences from Round 10 to 11.

WASHINGTON NATIONALS  Select Round 10 Pick #304   Matthew Page RF Oklahoma Baptist University

A junior college prospect with massive power, Page was named the NAIA Player of the Year in 2013.  Now a senior, he is a huge 6-3 205lbs rightfielder who both throws and bats left-handed.  With 26 home runs the past two seasons, Page seems like an interesting gamble here in Round 10, especially as a senior sign.

Seems like the Nationals have their outfield in Auburn settled, with Gardner in left, Carey in center, and Page in right, all three seniors with some upside potential.

6:56pm – Quick thoughts: Considering the Nationals did not possess extra picks and/or extra bonus pool money, I think the Nationals have done an excellent job through two days.  Day 1 saw them grab two promising college pitchers with excellent pedigrees; Day 2 saw them take a highly-touted high school catcher, three interesting college arms, an intriguing college bat, and three senior collegiate outfielders, each with upside.

In addition, the Nationals should have a few extra dollars set aside for some overslot prospects during Day 3 tomorrow.

7:02pm – With that Day 2 of the 2014 MLB Draft is complete!  We will return tomorrow at 1pm to Live Blog the final day of the Draft.  Please join me with your comments, questions, and craft beer suggestions.

Thanks for coming by today and please continue to spread the word.  Goodnight everybody!

After weeks and months of anticipation, the Washington Nationals used their 1st Round pick, 18th overall, in the 2014 MLB Draft to select UNLV right-handed pitcher Erick Fedde. Later in the evening, the Nationals chose University of Miami left-handed pitcher Andrew Suarez with their pick at #57 overall in Round #2.

Staying true to form at the top of the draft, the Nationals did not shy away from a potential injury risk and took the top rated player on the board, Fedde. If he had remained healthy throughout the season, he was in discussion for the Cubs at #4, and certainly would not have escaped the top-12 picks. Unfortunately Fedde suffered an elbow injury late in the season and underwent Tommy John surgery earlier this week. Plainly stated, the Nationals had no chance of selecting Fedde, a Scott Boras client, if he does not suffer an injury late in the season.

On the mound Fedde possesses a powerful and electric 92-94mph fastball that can touch 97mph, along with a sharp low-80s slider with true swing-and-miss type movement. In addition Fedde throws a solid mid-80s changeup that scouts believe could be an above-average pitch with refinement and polish. Blessed with a wiry, lean projectable 6-4 180lbs frame that could add considerable strength and weight, Fedde could find additional velocity as he matures physically. Finally, Fedde repeats his relatively quiet delivery well and is considered a good athlete on the mound.

After starring on Cape Cod and for Team USA last summer, Fedde entered the season as one of the top prospects available in the draft class, as scouts were in love with his strong repertoire and prototypical pitcher’s body. His elbow injury casts a healthy amount of risk with this pick, but Fedde was the best prospect available at #18, and the Nationals were shrewd to scoop him up.

Building off 1st round pick Fedde, in the 2nd round the Washington Nationals selected left-handed pitcher Andrew Suarez, a well-built 6-2 205lbs left-handed pitcher from the University of Miami. Blessed with a solid 3-pitch repertoire, Suarez throws an 89-91mph fastball, touching 93mph, with an above-average (or better) low-80 slider with late biting action. Also, Suarez features a changeup with sinking action, which has average or slightly better potential with some refinement, along with the occasional fringy curveball.

Suarez is a very intriguing draft prospect, as he has clear current strengths and weaknesses to his game. Suarez has a solid 4-pitch mix, although his present fastball and slider are more advanced than his curveball and slider, and he has a strong, durable pitcher’s body. Suarez pounds the strike zone, and rarely walks opposing hitters, as evidenced by his 15 walks in 109.2 innings pitched in 2014.

On the other hand, scouts question if Suarez will eventually pitch in relief, as his changeup (and curveball) currently lag behind his fastball and slider, and he has had past labrum surgery on his pitching shoulder during his freshman year. Only time will tell if his shoulder can hold up to the workload of a professional starting pitcher, but he has thrown 190+ collegiate innings as a workhorse for the Hurricanes in the ACC.

These lawyers are in a best position to aimhousepatong.com purchase levitra online advise the clients about proper course of action and can use their expertise to strengthen the case in the favor of the client. The pills enable successful intimacy with your wife. cialis generika 5mg aimhousepatong.com With more and more dirt particles accumulating over the coolant discount generic levitra coil, air doesn’t reach the coil at all. Pregnancy tadalafil 20mg españa massage – Specifically aimed at relieving lower back pain, leg pain and tight buttock muscles. Assuming he is completely recovered from his past injuries, Suarez projects as a strike-throwing #4 or #5 starting pitcher in the big leagues, and if he can improve the quality and consistency of his changeup, Suarez could develop into a strong #4 starter. His floor is that of a lefty reliever, as his fastball, slider, and terrific command of the strike zone should allow him to be a weapon against lefties in the bullpen. The Nationals did well to pair a polished, high-floor pitcher like Suarez in Round 2 with the talented but injured Erick Fedde on Day 1 of the draft.

NatsGM Day 1 Grade ->                  A-

 

* NatsGM’s Projected Early Day 2 Picks *

Round 3 (Pick #93)  Grayson Greiner Catcher South Carolina
After taking two pitchers on Day 1, I almost guarantee the Nationals will look to draft a bat in Round 3. Brett Austin from NC State would also be an intriguing pick here.

Round 4 (Pick #124)  John Curtiss RHP University of Texas
Mentioned by Jim Callis as a personal favorite of his on the 1st Episode of THE NatsGM Show (cheap plug), Simms would be a terrific value for the Nationals in Round 4.

Round 5 (Pick #154)   Justin Morris Catcher DeMatha HS
A local product with the ability to stay behind the plate as he matures, Morris could be an interesting pick midway through Day 2 of the draft.

We are LIVE LIVE LIVE from the NatsGM Studios to celebrate, analyze, and inebriate our way through the 2014 MLB Draft.  Teams will make 74 picks in total tonight, and the Washington Nationals possess two of them, picks #18 and #57.

I will be Live Blogging every pick this evening, so please join me with your comments, questions, jokes, and obscure pop culture references either in the Comment’s Section, on Twitter @NatsGMdotcom or on Facebook at NatsGM.

My early predictions for the Nationals picks tonight are UNLV’s RHP Erick Fedde at #18 and University of Maryland’s RHP Jake Stinnett at #57 (wishful thinking).  Who do you project them taking?

6:50pm – Just opened a Flying Dog Dream Machine IPL… Very promising, I would place a “55” on it.

6:56pm – Near 100% chance Mrs. Zimmer will be ordering a new couch and pillows by noon tomorrow after Harold Reynolds crushes the status quo on her living room furniture.

7:04pm – Nice tie Jonathan Mayo… Yikes!

#1   Houston Astros  Select  Brady Aiken  LHP  California HS

Gutsy pick by the Astros, as Rodon has superstar potential, but Aiken is an advanced high school pitcher with a chance for 4 better than average (or better) pitches.

#2  Miami Marlins Select  Tyler Kolek  RHP  Texas HS

WOW!  And the first mild surprise comes at selection #2, as many suspected Kolek was slipping in recent days.  But Kolek has a massive fastball and the Marlins are known to scout that area of the country well and extensively.

The Cubs have to be excited to now have a chance at either Rodon or Nola at #4.

#3  Chicago White Sox  Select  Carlos Rodon LHP North Carolina State

The projected #1 pick entering this year, Rodon scuffled a bit with his fastball command this season and leaned heavily on his slider.  However, Rodon has a chance to explode in professional baseball and should reach the major leagues sometime in 2015.  Excellent pick by the suddenly surging White Sox farm system.

#4  Chicago Cubs Select   Kyle Schwarber  C/1B/OF Indiana University

Predicted the Cubs would try to cut a below-slot deal with a local product this morning, but I expected it to be Evansville LHP Kyle Freeland, not Indiana hitter Kyle Schwarber.  I like Schwarber a lot, and think his compact, quick left-handed swing will play in the major leagues, but he is either a 1B or LF in the pros, two positions the Cubs seems to have PLENTY of in their organization.  Schwarber feels like a bit of a reach here at #4.

#5  Minnesota Twins  Select  Nick Gordon SS Florida HS

Boom!  I nailed this pick in both of my mocks, and he makes perfect sense, as the Twins desperately need help up-the-middle.  He’s a different type of player than his brother Dee, but he is a pure shortstop and he’s a solid value here at #5.

#6 Seattle Mariners  Select  Alex Jackson C/OF California HS

3 for 6 and 2 in a row from my morning mock draft, as this draft fell perfectly for the Mariners.  Jackson, perhaps the only elite hitting prospect in the draft, fills a dire organizational need for the Mariners.  He should be shifted to the outfield and his bat fast-tracked to the majors.

7:45pm – Interesting the Mariners announced Jackson as only an outfielder… Also, what word did Bud Selig replace “Sixth” with when announcing the pick.  Sounded like a Ozzy Osborne trying to say he feels “Sick“.

#7 Philadelphia Phillies  Select  Aaron Nola RHP Louisiana State

Terrific pick, as Nola has the highest floor in this draft class and should move extremely quickly through the minor leagues.  He does not have the monster ceiling one might expect from a #7 overall pick, but he has 3-quality pitches, outstanding control, and should sit in the Phillies rotation for many years.  Nice work by Ruben Amaro Jr. and his staff.

#8 Colorado Rockies  Select  Kyle Freeland LHP Evansville

Questions exist if he is healthy, as some teams did not like his medicals, but Freeland has a monster fastball/slider combination and projects to be an outstanding compliment to Jon Gray and Eddie Butler in Colorado.  Risky pick from a health perspective, but could pay dividends in the relatively near future.

#9 Toronto Blue Jays  Select  Jeff Hoffman RHP East Carolina

The Blue Jays just made a pick filled with testicular fortitude, drafted an injured pitcher off Tommy John surgery inside the top-10 picks.  If he was healthy, he was the odds on favorite to be selected 1-1, so this is a massive gamble of risk verses reward.  I REALLY like this pick.

#10 New York Mets  Select  Michael Conforto OF Oregon State

Although the Cubs would argue, Conforto is perhaps the most polished, advanced collegiate bat in this draft class.  He will be a pure left fielder with only a fringy arm and speed, but he can flat out hit, which is the most important tool for a position player.  He should move quickly and has a high floor but only a reasonable ceiling. Solid, but not wonderful pick here by the Mets.

8:11pm – Some team is going to get a steal with Sean Newcomb…

#11 Toronto Blue Jays  Select  Max Pentecost Catcher Kennesaw State

Interesting pick, as Toronto has been seeking a long-term solution at catcher for what seems like more than a decade.  The best pure catching prospect in this draft, Pentecost tore up the Cape League last summer, and should move quickly through the minor leagues.  I might have preferred them to take Touki Toussaint, but this is a solid choice for the Blue Jays.

#12 Milwaukee Brewers  Select  Kodi Medeiros LHP Hawaii HS

This feels a little rich for this Hawaii-native left-handed pitcher who is only about 6-0 180lbs, but he has the filthiest slider you will see from a high school pitcher.  There are others I like a bit more than Medeiros, but he has a chance to be a good one in a few years.

#13 San Diego Padres Select  Trea Turner SS North Carolina State

The college roommate of Carlos Rodon, Turner is a no-doubt defensive shortstop, with excellent speed, a good arm, and solid agility.  Scouts (and non-scouts like myself) question if he will hit against major league velocity and breaking stuff, but he is a quality value here at #13.

#14 San Francisco Giants  Select  Tyler Beede RHP Vanderbilt

I am happy for Beede, who is a personal favorite of mine and is going to an organization that specializes in developing pitching.  An inconsistent pitcher during his college career, Beede will flash monster stuff when he is on.  Heavy risk verses reward with this pick, but it could pay monster rewards for the Giants if they can help Beede allow his talent to blossom.

#15 Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim  Select  Sean Newcomb LHP University of Hartford

Immediate candidate for steal of the draft, Newcomb is one of my favorite prospects in this draft.  Armed with the easiest 93mph fastball you will ever see, along with a promising slider and changeup, Newcomb stands a strong chance of developing into a mid-rotation starting pitcher.  Terrific pick and already the #1 prospect in the Angels farm system.

#16 Arizona Diamondbacks  Select  Touki Toussaint RHP Florida HS

A raw pitcher, even for a high school player who has spent considerable time on the travel baseball circuit, Toussaint is a large kid with a chance to develop 3 above-average pitches including a mid-90s fastball.  There’s risk here, but this is a solid value at #16.

#17 Kansas City Royals  Select  Brandon Finnegan  LHP  Texas Christian

Another pick I nailed in my first Mock Draft, Finnegan has top-10 talent but slides here to #17 due to his smallish stature and shoulder issues last month.  He could be a monster closer in short order, or the Royals could develop him as a starter.  Excellent pick by the Royals here in the middle of Round 1.

#18 WASHINGTON NATIONALS  Select  Erick Fedde RHP UNLV

I have predicted this selection for more than a month now, as Fedde was a sure-fire top-10 pick before undergoing Tommy John surgery.  A monster pitcher with the upside of a quality #3 starter, the Nationals got a steal in Fedde here at #18.  Sure there is the obvious health risk, but this could prove to be the steal of the draft in a few years.

8:57pm – Give me Maryland RHP Jake Stinnett at #57 and you will have a happy NatsGM this evening.

#19 Cincinnati Reds  Select  Nick Howard RHP University of Virginia

Solely a closer (and a hitter) at UVA, Howard should shift to the starting rotation as a professional.  Armed with a massive frame and a terrific fastball, Howard has real upside as a pitcher once he ditches hitting and focused on the mound.  I probably like this pick more than I should considering the names still on the board, but good pick by the Reds.

#20 Tampa Bay Rays  Select  Casey Gillespie 1B Wichita State

A pure first baseman, Gillespie will need to hit A TON to fill the profile as a first division starter.  One of the better college bats this year, I think he was overdrafted slightly here at #20 with other quality names still on the board.

#21 Cleveland Indians  Select  Bradley Zimmer CF San Francisco

One of my favorites in this draft class, Zimmer is a steal here at #21.  A potentially elite defensive outfielder with a chance to be an above-average hitter, Zimmer is a raw prospect with a chance to blossom with some refinement.

#22 Los Angeles Dodgers  Select  Grant Holmes RHP South Carolina HS

Physically advanced for a high school pitcher with a thick frame, Holmes represents excellent value outside the top-20 picks because of his powerful fastball and polished repertoire.  Holmes could have easily gone 10 picks higher, so the Dodgers did well to select him here at #22.

#23 Detroit Tigers  Select  Derek Hill OF California HS

A true centerfielder, Hill has outstanding speed and instincts and has climbed draft boards in recent weeks.  He has 4 solid or better tools, with questions existing if he will develop power as he physically matures.  I am surprised to see him land with Detroit, but I like this pick for the Tigers.

#24 Pittsburgh Pirates  Select  Cole Tucker SS Arizona HS

Tucker is the first player selected in the 2014 draft class that I have not seen on television, in-person, or on video, and have only read about online. Tucker is a toolsy high school shortstop that should likely sign for an underslot bonus, which will allowing them to divert some funds to other picks in the draft.

He is a pure shortstop, but this feels like a reach on a pure talent basis in Round 1.

#25 Oakland Athletics  Select  Matt Chapman 3B Cal State Fullerton

Predicted to be selected in the top-10 prior to the season, Chapman struggled for much of the season (like his teammates) did at Cal State Fullerton.  Chapman has a monster arm and should be a terrific defender at third base, but this feels like a reach in the 1st Round as there are legitimate questions about his bat.

9:37pm – A.J. Reed might makes sense here for Boston, especially if they want to save a few dollars.

#26 Boston Red Sox  Select  Michael Chavis Infielder Georgia HS

A pure hitter, questions exist where he will eventually play defensively, but Chavis has a sweet swing and is a nice choice this late in Round 1.

9:42pm – Call me crazy, but I am liking Chavis’ bowtie.

#27 St. Louis Cardinals  Select  Luke Weaver RHP Florida State

A consistent Friday starter for the Seminoles, Weaver is a polished pitcher with plenty of physical projection remaining and profiles as a strong #4 starter in the big leagues.  This pick feels a bit early for St. Louis, but far be it for me to question the Cardinals Scouting and Development people.

#28 Kansas City Royals  Select  Forest Griffin LHP Florida HS

I am a little surprised the Royals picked Griffin over fellow Florida high school pitcher Sean Reid-Foley, but Griffin is a raw, projectable lefty with a blazing fastball.  He will need significant development time, but Griffin is a quality prospect to draft late in the round.

#29 Cincinnati Reds  Select  Alex Blandino Infielder Stanford

I know college bats tend to get snatched up quickly, but this feels rich for me on Blandino at #29.  If they wanted a bat, I might have preferred Derek Fisher from UVA or high school hitter Jacob Gatewood.

10:01pm – We are going to see quite a run of high school pitchers, especially righties, in the next 30 minutes or so of the draft.

#30 Texas Rangers  Select   Luis Ortiz RHP California HS

A nice value here at #30, many mock drafts had Ortiz going closer to pick #20.  The Rangers will need to develop Ortiz slowly, like an average high school arm, but Ortiz could be a pitching name to remember in a few years.  Boom or bust pick but a worthy gamble in late Round 1.

#31 Cleveland Indians  Select  Justus Sheffield LHP Tennessee HS

A Vanderbilt commit, the Indians must consider the talented left-handed pitcher signable away from the Commodores.  (Insert bad “Brick House” Commodores reference here).

#32 Atlanta Braves  Select  Braxton Davidson 1B/OF North Carolina HS

An intriguing high school bat, it feels like it has been a long time since the Braves have used their top selection on a hitter.  (I could be wrong).  That said, Davidson had some hype in the 20s and is considered one of the best high school bats in this crop.

#33  Boston Red Sox  Select  Michael Kopech RHP Texas HS
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One of the fastest rising players in recent days, there were rumors Kopech could be selected inside the first 20 picks.  The Red Sox have done well in recent years developing pitching, and Kopech is a solid value here late in Round 1.

#34 St. Louis Cardinals  Select  Jack Flaherty RHP California HS

A graduate of the same high school as Nationals Lucas Giolito and Padres Max Fried, Flaherty was seen as the most difficult to sign prospect in this draft, as he has a strong commitment to UNC.  Scouts are split on his future, as some like him on the mound and others like his bat, but most expect him to end up a power pitcher as a professional.  This pick has more risk than I am used to with a Cardinals selection.

* Compensation Round A *

10:25pm – Curious if the Astros pop local product RHP JB Bukauskas at #37.

#35 Colorado Rockies  Select  Forest Wall 2B Florida HS

I knew I overvalued him blowing him up to #17 in today’s mock draft, but Wall might have the best pure hit tool on the high school side, and should be a quality defender at second base.  He would have been a reach in Round 1, but here in the Comp Round, he feels like a quality pick for the burgeoning Rockies farm system.

#36 Miami Marlins  Select  Blake Anderson Catcher Mississippi HS

A quality defensive catcher, Anderson has a large frame to stay behind the plate, and questions with his profile make him feel like a reach at #36.  He’s a good prospect, but would fit better later in Round 2, than here.

#37 Houston Astros  Select  Derek Fisher OF University of Virginia

Terrific pick by the Astros, to scoop up a polished college bat who should hit for more power as he matures.  A personal favorite, the Astros scored a coup here at #37.

#38 Cleveland Indians  Select Mike Papi OF University of Virginia

Back to back UVA outfielders, Papi is a solid hitter and is another solid addition to the Indians farm system.

#39 Pittsburgh Pirates  Select  Connor Joe  Outfielder San Diego

And the run of college bats continues, as Connor Joe is overdrafted here in the Comp Round.  A solid hitter, there are rumors he could be shifted to catcher as a pro.  Not my favorite pick, though I prefer him to Bryan Morris, the player traded for this selection last week.

#40 Kansas City Royals  Select  Chase Vallot Catcher Louisiana HS

Athletic catchers with a chance to hit are always selected earlier than expected during the draft, but this feels a bit early for Vallot.

#41 Milwaukee Brewers  Select  Jacob Gatewood SS California HS

Terrific pick, as Gatewood was probably on their short list at #12.  Huge risk with this pick, but Gatewood would have been a top-5 pick this time last year.  Outstanding value at #41.

* 2nd Round *

#42 Houston Astros  Select  A.J. Reed 1B University of Kentucky

The odds-on favorite to win the Golden Spikes award as the top collegiate player, Reed has immense power and his supporters believe his hit tool will improve once he focuses exclusively on hitting.  Another solid pick by Houston.

#43 Miami Marlins  Select  Justin Twins SS Texas HS

I know his name and reputation as a quality athlete who should stay in the middle of the diamond as a professional, I really do not know enough about him to comment.

Time to pour a new beer.

#44 Chicago White Sox  Select  Spencer Adams RHP Georgia HS

One of the better high school right-handed pitchers in this class, Adams is a solid match with their 1st round pick, Carlos Rodon, to help infuse more talent into their farm system.

#45 Chicago Cubs  Select  Jake Stinnett RHP University of Maryland

A personal favorite of mine, Stinnett is a terrific pick by the Cubs here in Round 2, and should be a relatively easy pick to sign as a college senior.  Great pick!  Bummer, I was hoping he would reach Washington in Round 2.

#46 Minnesota Twins  Select  Nick Burdi RHP University of Louisville

If not for Aaron Nola, Burdi is likely the fastest player from this class to the majors.  Armed with a power fastball and slider, Burdi could get big league hitters out right now, and is a solid choice at #46.

#47 Philadelphia Phillies  Select  Matt Imhof LHP Cal Poly

Two solid choices, and college pitchers no less, from the Phillies on Day 1 of the draft.  Imhof does not have a tremendous ceiling, but he has good polish and is a quality pick for Philly here at 47.

#48 Colorado Rockies  Select  Ryan Castellani RHP Arizona HS

Oozing with athleticism, Colorado selects one of the many promising high school arms here in Round 2.  Expect this run to continue for much of the rest of the evening.

#49 Toronto Blue Jays  Select  Sean Reid-Foley RHP Florida HS

A projectable high school pitcher, I expected Reid-Foley to have been selected 20 picks higher, making him the best value pick thus far on Day 1.

#50 Milwaukee Brewers  Select  Monte Harrison OF Missouri HS

One of the tooliest athletes in this class, Harrison is a multi-sport athlete who shows considerable promise on the diamond.  Questions exist if he will hit, but if the Brewers can sign him, they have maybe their #3 prospect in their farm system in Harrison.

#51 San Diego Padres  Select  Michael Gettys OF Georgia HS

Terrific, amazing athlete with questions about his future ability to hit.  If he can refine his swing, this is a steal, but there is plenty of boom-and-bust involved in Gettys future.  Intriguing athlete to add to the Padres system though.

#52 San Francisco Giants  Select  Aramis Garcia Catcher Florida International

Probably the 2nd best collegiate catcher behind Max Pentecost, Garcia showed well in the Cape League last summer and followed it up with a strong college season.  I thought he might slip to the 3rd round, but I like this pick for San Francisco.

#53 Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim  Select  Joe Gatto RHP New Jersey HS

Another strong high school pitcher, Gatto is a northeastern pitcher with presumably fewer miles on his pitching arm.  He will need plenty of refinement in the minors, but Gatto is a solid 2nd round pick.

#54 Arizona Diamondbacks  Select  Cody Reed LHP Alabama HS

A talented left-handed arm, Reed has been slightly overlooked this spring due to the depth of high school pitching in the south.  A Vanderbilt commit, it will be interesting to see if the Angels are able to sign him.

#55 New York Yankees  Select  Jacob Lindgren LHP Mississippi State

A fast moving collegiate reliever, Lindgren has a powerful fastball slider combination and could reach the majors late this season or in 2015 as a hard-throwing lefty reliever.

#56 Kansas City Royals  Select  Scott Blewett RHP  New York HS

The top prospect from New York, Blewett is an athletic, projectable righty with a low-mileage arm from the northeast area.

#57 WASHINGTON NATIONALS   Select  Andrew Suarez LHP University of Miami

A quality, and projectable collegiate lefty, Suarez has a solid fastball that can touch the mid-90s, along with a solid Slider and Changeup.  With some injury concerns in his past, there is risk involved, but Suarez is a solid pick here in Round 2.

#58 Cincinnati Reds  Select  Taylor Sparks  3B UC Irvine

Good college hitter, Nice pick.

#59 Texas Rangers  Select  Ti’Quan Forbes Mississippi HS

 #60 Tampa Bay Rays  Select  Cameron Vargan Ohio HS

#61 Cleveland Indians  Select  Grant Hockin California HS

#62 Los Angeles Dodgers  Select  Alex Verdugo OF Arizona HS

As we are seeing late in Day 1, the depth and talent of the high school class, especially on the pitching side is starting to show through.

#63 Detroit Tigers  Select  Spencer Turnbull RHP University of Alabama

Turnbull is a very thickly built athlete, and a solid SEC starting pitcher who could shift to the bullpen as a professional.

#64 Pittsburgh  Pirates  Select  Mitch Keller RHP Iowa HS

#65 Oakland Athletics  Select  Daniel Gossett RHP Clemson University

A personal favorite of mine, Gossett was a strong Friday starter for the Tigers in 2014, and while his physical measurables are not outstanding, he knows how to pitch and has a chance to be a quality back-end starter.  I really like this pick.

#66 Atlanta Braves  Select  Garrett Fulenchek RHP Texas HS

#67 Boston Red Sox  Select  Sam Travis 1B Indiana University

The best senior collegiate hitter in this year’s draft, Travis could be a left fielder as a professional, but either a 1B or LF, Travis is a bat-first prospect who will need to hit his way to Boston.  That said, I think he will and like him late in Round 2.

#68 St. Louis Cardinals  Select   Ronnie Williams RHP Florida HS

 * Comp Round B *

#69 Arizona Diamondbacks  Select  Marcus Wilson OF California HS

#70 Arizona Diamondbacks  Select  Isan Diaz SS Massachusetts HS

Good prospect but thought to have a strong commitment to Vanderbilt, he will be difficult to sign away from those Commodores.

#71 St. Louis Cardinals  Select  Andrew Morales RHP UC Irvine

A terrific college pitcher lacking ideal size, if he was 2-3 inches taller he would have been picked in Round 1.  Nevertheless, Morales is another nice pick by the Cardinals late on Day 1.

#72 Tampa Bay Rays  Select  Brent Honeywell RHP Walters State CC

From the same school as Craig Kimbrel (it’s true, look it up), Honeywell is one of the earliest selections ever from this excellent baseball junior college powerhouse.

#73 Pittsburgh Pirates  Select  Trey Supak RHP Texas HS

The Pirates have an affinity for high school pitchers and developing them, and they did a nice job getting the talented Supak here at #73.

#74 Seattle Mariners  Select  Gareth Morgan OF Canada HS

The top prospect from north of the border this year, Morgan has long been on the prospect landscape.  A talented player with some questions surrounding his hit tool, the Mariners chose another excellent bat here in Round 2.  Great pick to complete Day 1!

 

And with that, the first day of the 2014 MLB Draft is in the books!  I will return in the morning with my analysis of the Nationals two picks, Erick Fedde and Andrew Suarez, and I will be LIVE Blogging Day 2 of the MLB Draft beginning tomorrow at 1pm.

Thank you for joining me this evening!