2011 MLB Draft Tonight at 7PM

Originally Posted by grusumm18

Originally Posted by AndrewLuck

Originally Posted by Julian Wright

Your boy wouldn't happen to be Blake would he?
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If so
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Nah, my bud is Tyler, but I know a dude who knows blake since he committed to Washington as well.
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quick ? then
he just wanted to blaze his own path?

/bcp c/o...a while back =)

pat used to pepper us on the old fb field during bp in the fall
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You mean from his brother?

BOOOO
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I might be getting drafted next year, but nothing too big, rounds like 35-50 if I'm lucky
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Originally Posted by grusumm18

Originally Posted by AndrewLuck

Originally Posted by Julian Wright

Your boy wouldn't happen to be Blake would he?
laugh.gif

If so
pimp.gif
Click to expand...
Nah, my bud is Tyler, but I know a dude who knows blake since he committed to Washington as well.
Click to expand...

quick ? then
he just wanted to blaze his own path?

/bcp c/o...a while back =)

pat used to pepper us on the old fb field during bp in the fall
Click to expand...
You mean from his brother?

BOOOO
laugh.gif

I might be getting drafted next year, but nothing too big, rounds like 35-50 if I'm lucky
pimp.gif
 
Originally Posted by gottagitdemjs

Starling, hosmer, moustakas!!! We gotta be good sooner or later...right?
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Too bad Mous looking like crap in a hitters league
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Your pitching is going to own the Central in a couple years though
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Originally Posted by gottagitdemjs

Starling, hosmer, moustakas!!! We gotta be good sooner or later...right?
Click to expand...


Too bad Mous looking like crap in a hitters league
laugh.gif


Your pitching is going to own the Central in a couple years though
sick.gif
 
MLB Draft: Best, Worst and Who's Left.

Spoiler [+]
Day 1 of the 2011 MLB draft was full of surprises, with the Mariners shocking everyone by going pitcher (surprise No. 1) and making that pick Virginia lefty Danny Hultzen (surprise No. 2), probably scorching the Royals' long-held plan to grab a college pitcher with the No. 5 pick. But there were plenty of intriguing moves through the remainder of the evening, some I loved, some that had me scratching my head. I've also listed my top remaining players as the draft moves to Day 2.




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Moves I liked






Tampa Bay Rays

The picks: Taylor Guerrieri (24), Mikie Mahtook (31), Jake Hager (32), Brandon Martin (38), Tyler Goeddel (41), Jeff Ames (42), Blake Snell (52), Kes Carter (56), Grayson Garvin (59), James Harris (60)
Summary: When you pick as often as Tampa Bay did, you're bound to do something I can praise. And I did like the majority of the Rays' picks. Their first pick, Taylor Guerrieri, has top-half-of-the-round stuff but fell on some signability and makeup questions -- however, the Rays did their homework on the latter and are satisfied with what they learned. Mikie Mahtook fell because ... well, I have no idea why he fell, maybe "profit-taking." He's a balanced player who'll contribute on offense and defense and move quickly through the system, and he plays like his hair is on fire. Tyler Goeddel is an athletic, projectable bat who should end up in left field and provide average and power. Brandon Martin is a shortstop who should stay at the position and has a short swing to produce line-drive contact. Grayson Garvin is a polished left-handed starter whose velocity ticked up at year's end, and he comes from Vanderbilt, one of the country's best college programs for developing arms. The Rays took probability, they took ceiling, they took tough signs, they took quick signs. They built a portfolio among their picks, taking advantage of the control they had with all of those selections in a short period of the draft. By August, if they sign most of these guys, that farm system likely will be the best in baseball.





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Minnesota Twins

The picks: Levi Michael (30), Travis Harrison (50), Hudson Boyd (55)
Summary: Levi Michael is a 20-year-old switch-hitting shortstop who can run; unless the ankle is somehow worse than I've heard, it makes no sense to me that he fell out of the top 20, and the Twins are very fortunate that they could grab him. Travis Harrison was in play in the late first/early sandwich as one of the better pure bats in the high school class but might have fallen on signability and concerns he will end up at first base, where I still think the bat will profile. The Twins also got a personal favorite of mine in Hudson Boyd, a big kid with two above-average pitches and outstanding makeup.




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Arizona Diamondbacks

The picks: Trevor Bauer (3), Archie Bradley (7), Andrew Chafin (43),
Summary: I mean, is this cheating, since the Diamondbacks picked twice in the top 10? They sure didn't go cheap with Archie Bradley at No. 7 -- I liked him more than their first pick, Trevor Bauer. And they added Andrew Chafin in the sandwich round, a reliever-turned-starter on the way back from Tommy John surgery who was apparently "disgusting" (that's good) in his last outing prior to the draft.




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San Diego Padres

The picks: Cory Spangenberg (10), Joe Ross (25), Michael Kelly (48), Brett Austin (54)
Summary: The pick at No. 10 was unprotected, and the Padres did what they had to do, taking a signable player there in Cory Spangenberg. But they still got some upside because the kid can fly and has a great left-handed swing; if he had a set position, he might have been projected to go there even without the signability. They also added a high-upside arm in Joe Ross, a guy who adds athleticism to their system.




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Boston Red Sox

The picks: Matt Barnes (19), Blake Swihart (26), Henry Owens (36), Jackie Bradley (40)
Summary: I hinted at this on Twitter, but some of the credit for Boston's draft is just that the right guys fell to the team. However, the Red Sox do deserve the rest of the credit for actually taking them (and, presumably, paying them). They got Blake Swihart, who I think will be an impact hitter and has a chance to do it as a catcher, with their second pick after preseason top-10 guy Matt Barnes -- whose velocity was fine but didn't show great command this year -- fell to them at No. 19. Henry Owens was spot on in the sandwich round as a projectable lefty who already hits 93 mph and has great deception, and they took a flier on Jackie Bradley's recovery from injury much as they did last year with Anthony Ranaudo.




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Moves I question




Atlanta Braves

The picks: Sean Gilmartin (28)
Summary: Sean Gilmartin as your lone pick of the day? I like Gilmartin for what he is, an athletic, competitive, back-end starter, but there were a number of higher-upside guys on the board, and the last thing Atlanta needs is a low-ceiling starter.




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Colorado Rockies

The picks: Tyler Anderson (20), Trevor Story (45)
Summary: Tyler Anderson was going in the first round, so it wasn't a reach by comparative standards, but I see no out pitch here, just a lefty with some command who'll probably be a pitch-to-contact guy at higher levels, not a great fit for the Rockies' park. Trevor Story can pick it at short with a plus arm, but I don't buy the bat and the consensus from scouts I talked to down there was the same.




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Los Angeles Dodgers

The picks: Chris Reed (16)
Summary: I actually don't mind the Chris Reed pick as much as some of my sources -- it's a reach, but put him back in the rotation and it could look very shrewd in a year or so. I'm more concerned about what it means for the club, as my pre-draft report that the Dodgers couldn't go over slot looks like it's probably accurate. That's too bad, especially in a year in which it looks like two dozen clubs might throw the commissioner's slot recommendations out the window.




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Texas Rangers

The picks: Kevin Matthews (33), Zach Cone (37),
Summary: Zach Cone has big tools, but they just don't play, exacerbated by a bad leak out front at the plate, and he was wildly overmatched in the Team USA trials last summer and on the Cape the year before (his only real experience hitting with wood). Kevin Matthews is a tough-sign high school lefty who projects as a reliever because of his frame. That seems the opposite of what you'd expect from a nascent, big-market club such as the Rangers, especially since they were linked to several big-ticket, high-ceiling high school kids.




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Seattle Mariners

The picks: Danny Hultzen (2)
Summary: I'm not criticizing Hultzen in the least here, but I think drafting at No. 2 overall is a rare chance to go for ceiling, and the Mariners didn't do that. They took a very safe, very good college pitcher who will move quickly but doesn't have No. 1 starter upside. And I admit I like my left-handers to have better breaking balls than Hultzen, whose best off-speed pitch is a changeup.




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Best players remaining


The number denotes the player's ranking in my final Top 100 ranking.



1. Josh Bell, OF (ranked No. 15 overall)
2. Dillon Howard, RHP (18)
3. Anthony Meo, RHP (25)
4. Andrew Susac, C (27)
5. Austin Hedges, C (31)
6. Daniel Norris, LHP (35)
7. Alex Dickerson, OF (37)
8. Charles Tilson, OF (38)
9. Nick Delmonico, C/1B (39)
10. Johnny Eierman, SS (44)

Full analysis of the first round.

Spoiler [+]
And now, on to the picks.







Pittsburgh Pirates
Gerrit Cole, RHP, UCLAChurchill: We expected this and Keith Law has been projecting this pick for weeks. I saw him twice and he was so-so both times, but with a plus changeup, big-time velocity up to 100 mph and a promising breaking ball, it's difficult to pass on Cole. The Pirates do not have such a player in their system and the UCLA product could see the big leagues after very little time in the minors. Seattle is looking at Rice third baseman Anthony Rendon here and prep center fielder Bubba Starling is still an outside possibility. I have been told shortstop Francisco Lindor is not the pick for the M's


Seattle MarinersDanny Hultzen, LHP, VirginiaChurchill: Hultzen is a surprise pick here, as the expectation was Rice third baseman Anthony Rendon or prep center fielder Bubba Starling. Hultzen is expected to move quickly and reach the majors within two years, but he does lack the upside of other college pitchers in the class. He did perform well and has above-average stuff including a 90-94 mph fastball and two above-average off-speed pitches. The rumored asking price was high, but perhaps there was a pre-draft deal in place here or strong indications that Hultzen would sign for what Seattle was willing to spend on the pick. Arizona is likely to tab UCLA right-hander Trevor Bauer at No. 3, but with Rendon still on the board, anything goes from this point forward.



Arizona DiamondbacksTrevor Bauer, RHP, UCLA Churchill: Bauer, also a potential quick-mover like Hultzen, is not a surprise here as the D-backs have been linked to the right-hander for some time. The plus curveball, consistency and 91-95 mph velocity overrule the concerns on workload -- he averaged around 130 pitches per start this season -- and the unconventional throwing program he follows diligently. Rendon may not be strongly considered by Baltimore at No. 4, and the O's are said to be considering righty Dylan Bundy from Owasso HS in Oklahoma.


Baltimore Orioles Dylan Bundy, RHP, Owasso (Okla.) HSChurchill: Bundy is a tremendous talent, and despite the lack of ideal size at 6-foot-1 and 190 pounds, he profiles as a No. 1 starter and could hit the big leagues as quickly as many of the college arms in the class. The big fastball -- up to 98 mph -- is just the beginning as he also offers a plus curveball, a potentially useful changeup and a cutter that may be his best secondary offering. He's a workout freak and breaks the mold that scouting director Joe Jordan generally sticks to, but he stays on top of his pitches and is a great competitor. Kansas City has the next pick and it could be Starling or a college arm such as Matt Barnes or Alex Meyer.



Kansas City RoyalsBubba Starling, OF, Garner-Edgerton (Kans.) HSChurchill: Starling may be the best talent in the class, starting with his plus raw power and tremendous all-around tools. Despite standing 6-foot-4 he profiles well in center thanks to good instincts and perhaps 60 speed on the 20-80 scouting scale. He's drawn comparisons to Josh Hamilton, but may be more like 2009 first-round pick and top prospect Mike Trout. The Royals farm system just added another high-ceiling talent with superstar potential. Plus, he gives Kansas City the one thing its farm system lacks: an impact up-the-middle player.


Washington NationalsAnthony Rendon, 3B, RiceChurchill: This was the next spot for Rendon to go after Seattle passed on him at No. 2, and it's clear the Nationals went for best player available, ignoring the fact Ryan Zimmerman is one of the best third baseman in baseball and under contract long term. Rendon's injury concerns may or may not have had something to do with the fall, but the Nationals get a hitter here who could join them on the 25-man roster as early as next season. Where he plays in D.C. remains to be seen, but there has been some chatter about him moving to second base. The Nationals' next pick is at 23 and since they were linked to a lot of college players at No. 6, getting Rendon instead may change their efforts later this round.
Arizona DiamondbacksArchie Bradley, RHP, Broken Arrow (Okla.) HSChurchill: The Diamondbacks ignored the fact this pick is unprotected after failing to sign Texas A&M's Barret Loux a year ago (he failed a post-draft physical) and took the best player on their board in Bradley. With velocity into the mid-90s and the best curveball among prep arms in the class, the upside is huge for Bradley, and he could end up at the top of the rotation. His college commitment may cost the D-backs here, but it's a gutsy pick and a great move if they get him signed. If they don't sign him, they don't get a compensation pick next year, hence the phrase "unprotected."
Cleveland IndiansFrancisco Lindor, SS, Montverde (Fla.) AcademyChurchill: Lindor was considered by Seattle and Arizona, and the Indians get a potential five-tool player who won't turn 18 until November. He's a switch-hitter with pop -- he won the home run derby at the Aflac All-American game last year at age 16 -- and scares opposing coaches from all angles. He's a wizard on defense and projects to not only stick at shortstop but thrive there. The Indians could be in a position to have to trade budding star Asdrubal Cabrera in a few years as he gets more expensive, and now Lindor is set as the successor. The question on Lindor is how real the power is, but scouts generally agree it's above-average relative to the position. Lindor isn't going to be a cheap sign so it appears the Indians are not looking for a slot signing with this pick, which should make Tribe fans happy.
Chicago CubsJavier Baez, SS, Arlington Country Day (Jacksonville, Fla.)Churchill: Baez is one of the best prep bats in the class, with power and a chance to hit for average as well. He played shortstop in high school but is believed to be headed for third base as a pro. The swing is a bit long but there's bat speed to spare and the Cubs are big on upside talent.
San Diego PadresCory Spangenberg, 3B, Indian River State CollegeChurchill: Spangenberg, who player third in college, can run and has a plus hit tool with a chance for some power. This pick is unprotected so the Padres needed a signable player, but if Spangenberg can play up the middle somewhere he's a potential All-Star. He's not expected to play shortstop, his natural position, and doesn't profile to hit for the power generally reserved for third basemen but his athleticism suggests center field is a legitimate option. The Padres called him as a second baseman when they made the pick, so we can assume that's where he will begin his pro career.
Houston AstrosGeorge Springer, OF, UConnChurchill: Springer came into the season as a potential top-5 pick, but showed some mechanical flaws that have scouts concerned that his swing is not sound and will delay his path to the big leagues. There's plus power and speed and he throws well. There is a chance he plays some center field but he has the arm to move to right, and the bat will play there if he fixes the swing.
Milwaukee BrewersTaylor Jungmann, RHP, TexasChurchill: Jungmann has good stuff, sitting 91-95 mph with the fastball and offering two breaking balls of which the slider is the better pitch. He has some delivery concerns -- he throws across his body -- but he's been as consistent as any arm in the country this season and may not need much time in the minors to help the Brewers, and their farm system lacks just about everything. He's big and physical, and could pitch behind Yovani Gallardo and Zack Greinke with No. 2 upside.
New York MetsBrandon Nimmo, OF, East HS (Cheyenne, Wyo.)Churchill: Nimmo is a high-upside play here and a refreshing pick for the Mets. He's a good athlete and could hit for plus power down the road, but his left-handed bat profiles to play in a corner outfield spot, where his arm fits, too. Nimmo brings a good work ethic to the table and he squares up fastballs regularly. His lack of competition -- his high school does not have a team -- made it difficult for him to get seen by scouts, but he's found a way to get noticed, including an impressive display on the showcase circuit last summer.
Florida MarlinsJose Fernandez, RHP, Alonso HS (Tampa, Fla.)Churchill: The Marlins continue to go upside and get Fernandez, a Cuban defector, who offers a plus fastball into the mid-90s. He's 19 years old but fits the profile of the kind of pitcher The Fish like to work. However, the lack of a polished breaking ball could keep him in the minors for four or five years. It's no shock that the Marlins took a kid from Florida, as they were linked to just about every prep player in the state. Fernandez joins 2009 first-rounder Chad James (a southpaw) in a farm system that has produced pitchers Josh Johnson and Ricky Nolasco in recent years.
Milwaukee BrewersJed Bradley, LHP, Georgia TechChurchill: This is a protected pick but the Brewers get another college arm that could hit the big leagues inside of three years. He's a tall southpaw that has touched 97 mph but generally sits 91-94. His breaking ball needs work and his changeup often goes unused, which suggests he could land in the bullpen. He does throw strikes and he has an uncanny ability to avoid the sweet spot of the bat, but his inconsistencies kept him out of the top 10. The Brewers now have two legit rotation candidates out of this draft.
Los Angeles DodgersChris Reed, LHP, StanfordChurchill: We knew this was going to be a slot pick with the current financial situation in L.A. and Reed was mentioned as a possibility by Law on Sunday and as the favorite here earlier today. There's big league ability here and his changeup and slider are his two best pitches, but this was a pick to make sure they landed a player with probability and signability, rather than upside.
Los Angeles AngelsC.J. Cron, 1B, UtahChurchill: Cron possesses perhaps the best power tool among college bats in the entire class. A natural catcher, Cron played first base this season due to a shoulder injury, but that is likely where he ends up as a pro. He makes a lot of contact, too, but doesn't generally work the count all that much. He generates leverage and loft consistently and is believed to have a strong enough ability to hit for average that he'll skate through the minors in a couple of seasons. The Halos need bats, and Cron gives them one.
Oakland Athletics Sonny Gray, RHP, VanderbiltChurchill: Gray has terrific stuff and could have gone in the top 10. Because he's 5-foot-11 or maybe 6 feet tall, there are concerns about his durability, but his command and delivery became bigger concerns late this spring. The velocity is firm in the 92-96 mph range and his curveball is already a plus pitch. With Oakland's present starting rotation, the rich project to get richer, though Gray could end up in the bullpen down the line.
Boston Red SoxMatt Barnes, RHP, UConnChurchill: The Red Sox getting Barnes here is a coup. He's a potential No. 1 or 2 starter and already possesses a 93-97 mph fastball and potentially plus curveball. He holds his velocity late into games and could get to the majors quickly, especially if he gets his feet wet out of the bullpen. Boston has more picks coming on later this evening, but this is a tremendous start as most didn't believe Barnes would get this far.
Colorado Rockies Tyler Anderson, LHP, OregonChurchill: Anderson lacks the stuff and upside of other available college arms, including Kentucky's Alex Meyer, but he's athletic and polished and could be in the majors by the end of 2012 or early in 2013. He has a funky delivery but also a loose arm and when he commands his fastball he's tough to square up. He has two breaking balls, though both are inconsistent and he generally induced swings and misses from the change in speed more than a sharp, late break. If he can add to one of them -- more likely the curveball since he likes to pitch up in the zone a bit -- and find a better feel for a changeup, he could be a mid-rotation starter. More likely he's a back-end arm or a reliever, but one that helps the Rockies sooner than later.
Toronto Blue JaysTyler Beede, RHP, Lawrence Academy (Groton, Mass.)Churchill: The Blue Jays have extra picks but went with some upside with Beede, who could be a tough sign due to a strong commitment to Vanderbilt. He sits in the low-90s and improved his breaking ball this season, which now profiles as an above-average pitch in time. Toronto took righty Aaron Sanchez last year and now add Beede to its crop of young pitchers. It appears Toronto drafted for value here as many of the top college arms are already off the board, except for Kentucky's Alex Meyer.
St. Louis CardinalsKolten Wong, 2B, Hawaii Churchill: The Cardinals passed on Alex Meyer (the best available college pitcher) and prep arms Taylor Guerrieri and Dillon Howard to take Wong, a second baseman with an above-average hit tool. He lacks power, however, so he comes with limited upside. He's an average runner and an average defender but has good hands and could develop into a plus glove. St. Louis went for probability here rather than best player available.
Washington NationalsAlex Meyer, RHP, KentuckyChurchill: They tabbed Rendon at No. 6 and went pitching here with the best available college starter in Meyer. He brings big upside with a plus fastball-slider combo. He's 6-foot-9 and when he keeps his delivery together is dominant and uses the slider to put batters away. There's a chance he's a closer in the future but he holds his velocity well despite some inconsistencies with his command. The Nationals, if we dream for a second, could have four perennial All-Stars out of the past three first rounds in Stephen Strasburg, Bryce Harper, Rendon and Meyer, with an above-average closer in Drew Storen.
Tampa Bay RaysTaylor Guerrieri, RHP, Spring Valley HS (Columbia, S.C.) Churchill: The Rays have 10 of the next 37 picks and certainly didn't go signability here with Guerrieri, who has a commitment to South Carolina. Keith Law ranks him as the No. 3 prep arm in the class, and a scout I spoke to early this season called him a prototypical starter in today's game thanks to a 92-95 mph fastball that has reached 97. His curveball is plus and he's got some athleticism. Tampa got the best player available here, a good start to its busy day.
San Diego PadresJoe Ross, RHP, Bishop O'Dowd HS (Oakland, Calif.)Churchill: Ross may have been the best player on the board. He's not as projectable as his brother Tyson -- who pitches for the A's -- was at the same age, but comes with better command and mechanics. Scouts rave about his delivery and arm action, which suggests he's a safe bet to develop his pitches and progress through the minors. San Diego, having tabbed Spangenberg at No. 10, lands a potential No. 2 starter in Ross.
Boston Red SoxBlake Swihart, C, Cleveland HS (Rio Rancho, N.M.) Churchill: The Red Sox get perhaps the top catcher in the class in Swihart, though there are some questions about his defense. The tools are there and his bat may play in a corner outfield spot if he can't cut it behind the plate. The Red Sox farm system now has a little bit of everything by adding Swihart, a switch-hitting catcher.
Cincinnati RedsRobert Stephenson, RHP, Alhambra (Calif.) HSChurchill: With many of the college arms off the board, the Reds dug into the prep ranks for Stephenson, who touches 94 mph and complements his heater with a promising curveball. There's some effort in his delivery but he's a good athlete and a smart kid on and off the field. His commitment to Washington is strong, but he's considered signable and gives the Reds a young arm with upside.
Atlanta BravesSean Gilmartin, LHP, Florida StateChurchill: Gilmartin gets by with average velocity touching the low 90s by relying on an advanced feel for pitching. His changeup is a plus offering but his curveball is soft, prompting some scouts to compare him to Mariners lefty Jason Vargas. In other words, a No. 4 starter. The Braves have Mike Minor, Julio Teheran and Arodys Vizcaino nearing the big leagues, so their pick of Gilmartin was all about drafting a player that would sign for MLB's recommended bonus for this slot.
San FranciscoJoe Panik, SS, St. John'sChurchill: Panik may have to move to second base due to a below-average arm, but projects to hit for some average as he works counts and shows good pitch recognition. There's not much future power in the bat, however, which could make it difficult for him to crack the starting lineup in San Francisco. The Giants appear to have gone for a slot signing here and several players rank ahead of Panik on Law's Top 100.
Minnesota TwinsLevi Michael, SS, North Carolina Churchill: Michael is the top college shortstop in the class and the Twins may be pairing him with import Tsuyoshi Nishioka in the middle of the infield in a few years. Michael runs well and handles shortstop, but his bat is his best tool and he projects to hit for average and get on base thanks to an ability to use the whole field. The Twins passed on some prep arms but didn't reach for the college pitcher as some expected.
Tampa Bay RaysMikie Mahtook, OF, LSUChurchill: Mahtook's "slide" ends with the Rays, who now have two strong picks with eight remaining tonight. Mahtook can play center field and has a good arm and his power ticked up this season in a strong conference despite the change in bats at the college level. He was generally projected to go in the top 20 and Law had him as high as No. 14 to the Marlins and No. 9 to the Cubs in previous mock drafts. The Rays may have drafted B.J. Upton's replacement, depending on the future status of Desmond Jennings.
Tampa Bay RaysJake Hager, SS, Sierra Vista (Nev.) HSChurchill: The Rays reached here for Hager, a shortstop that most scouts believe needs to go to school and make another run at it in a few years. He's a shortstop with a chance to stay there, but the bat lacks polish and he's merely an adequate overall athlete for the position.
Texas RangersKevin Matthews, LHP, Richmond Hill (Ga.) HSChurchill: The Rangers dig for Matthews, a left-hander committed to the University of Virginia who may very well choose school, despite a seven-figure bonus in the offing. He's likely a reliever in the future, but he has athleticism and above-average velocity. The Rangers have a pick in the compensation round and may choose to go over slot for the right talent with that selection.

Analysis of the compensation round.

Spoiler [+]
Picks 34 through 38

The Nationals, at No. 34, get Brian Goodwin, an athletic outfielder with plus speed and the ability to square up line drives and even hit for some power. ... The Red Sox's pick of prep lefty Henry Owens is another strong selection for the club. Owens is projectable and might have front-line upside. ... The Rangers get the toolsy Zach Cone, who has yet to turn his physical skills into baseball performance. ... Tampa's selection of Brandon Martin adds another potential future shortstop to its system along with Tim Beckham and first-round pick Jake Hager. ... Toronto, at No. 35, reached for Jacob Anderson, but the team has several picks Monday and there is some upside in the outfielder's right-handed bat.



Picks 39 through 43



The Phillies love toolsy players but their top pick two years in a row has been off that trend. Larry Greene has plus power and should be adequate in a corner outfield spot. He's considered an easy sign. ... Jackie Bradley could be the next All-Star center fielder in Boston, and might have gone in the top 20 had it not been for an injury and some stuggles at the plate this spring. ... The Rays get Tyler Goeddel, who profiles better in the outfield than at third base, but there's some upside at the plate, including the potential for above-average power. ... Jeff Ames is a junior college kid with some upside, and at 6-foot-4 and 225 pounds, he has the size to profile in the rotation for the Rays. ... Andrew Chafin, who returned from Tommy John surgery to have a strong season, could be a mid-rotation starter and adds to the crop of legitimate pitching prospects the D-backs have added on Day 1.



Picks 44 through 48



Michael Fulmer gives the Mets another prep kid, but his fastball velocity -- up to 96 mph -- might make him a difficult sign with his commitment to Arkansas. Daniel Norris is still available at this point but might want more than the Mets want to spend, despite the belief that they'd be willing to go over slot at 44. ... Trevor Story, who has a commitment to LSU, could be a tough sign for the Rockies, but he is a solid defender at shortstop and has some strength to offer at the plate, although the questions about the hit tool remain. ... Joe Musgrove gives the Jays a big right-hander with a heavy sinker and a solid delivery, but he currently lacks a breaking ball. ... Keenyn Walker is an upside play for the White Sox and can switch hit with some raw pop. ... Michael Kelly is a projectable right-hander the Padres can pair with first-rounder Joe Ross down the line.



Picks 49 through 53



The Giants go back to the prep ranks after adding a college infielder in the first round. Kyle Crick is a solid, mid-rotation candidate with a plus fastball, but his secondary stuff needs work and he might be a long-term project. ... The Twins get a solid bat in Travis Harrison. He has power and had a chance to go in Round 1, but fell likely because his future is at first base. ... The Yankees added Dante Bichette, whose father of the same name played in the big leagues. He has good makeup and is a future outfielder with a strong arm and some power potential. The hit tool is a question, however. ... Blake Snell is a projectable lefty who touched 94 mph late this spring and is considered a signable player, hence his selection a little higher than his grades suggest. The Rays, however, love the Pacific Northwest, having taken Josh Sale and Drew Vettleson out of the area last spring. ... Dwight Smith, the son of former Cubs outfielder Dwight Smith Sr., is stronger than his father and might have more natural power. He profiles as a left fielder.



Picks 54 through 60



Brett Austin has a solid swing from both sides and a decent chance to stick at catcher for San Diego. He's athletic, so the outfield is also a possibility. ... The Twins get Hudson Boyd, who has touched the mid-90s with his fastball, and he's shown a feel for a slurvy breaking ball that is above average when he stays on top of it. Many believe he's a reliever in the end. ... Kes Carter is among the top smaller-college talents in the country, has some tools and profiles well defensively in a corner outfield spot. The Rays could afford to take a chance on his upside with their plethora of picks. ... The Jays snagged Kevin Comer, a Vanderbilt commit who might be tough to sign. He sits in the 90-93 mph range with his fastball and throws both a slider and curveball, but his command is below average. ... The Padres went for a college shortstop in Jace Peterson, but scouts worry about his ability to hit for average going forward, and the power grades below average. ... At No. 59, the Rays get Grayson Garvin, a 6-foot-6 left-hander with some projection left and a strong recent track record of progress and performance. ... With their 10th pick of the day, the Rays complete the sandwich round by selecting James Harris, an athletic outfielder from the Bay Area. He has all the tools, including above-average bat speed, but is considered raw at the plate. The Rays, considering they couldn't come in and spend $30 million on their first-day picks, have done well to spread out their selections among upside talent in filling gaps in their farm system.
 
MLB Draft: Best, Worst and Who's Left.

Spoiler [+]
Day 1 of the 2011 MLB draft was full of surprises, with the Mariners shocking everyone by going pitcher (surprise No. 1) and making that pick Virginia lefty Danny Hultzen (surprise No. 2), probably scorching the Royals' long-held plan to grab a college pitcher with the No. 5 pick. But there were plenty of intriguing moves through the remainder of the evening, some I loved, some that had me scratching my head. I've also listed my top remaining players as the draft moves to Day 2.




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Moves I liked






Tampa Bay Rays

The picks: Taylor Guerrieri (24), Mikie Mahtook (31), Jake Hager (32), Brandon Martin (38), Tyler Goeddel (41), Jeff Ames (42), Blake Snell (52), Kes Carter (56), Grayson Garvin (59), James Harris (60)
Summary: When you pick as often as Tampa Bay did, you're bound to do something I can praise. And I did like the majority of the Rays' picks. Their first pick, Taylor Guerrieri, has top-half-of-the-round stuff but fell on some signability and makeup questions -- however, the Rays did their homework on the latter and are satisfied with what they learned. Mikie Mahtook fell because ... well, I have no idea why he fell, maybe "profit-taking." He's a balanced player who'll contribute on offense and defense and move quickly through the system, and he plays like his hair is on fire. Tyler Goeddel is an athletic, projectable bat who should end up in left field and provide average and power. Brandon Martin is a shortstop who should stay at the position and has a short swing to produce line-drive contact. Grayson Garvin is a polished left-handed starter whose velocity ticked up at year's end, and he comes from Vanderbilt, one of the country's best college programs for developing arms. The Rays took probability, they took ceiling, they took tough signs, they took quick signs. They built a portfolio among their picks, taking advantage of the control they had with all of those selections in a short period of the draft. By August, if they sign most of these guys, that farm system likely will be the best in baseball.





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Minnesota Twins

The picks: Levi Michael (30), Travis Harrison (50), Hudson Boyd (55)
Summary: Levi Michael is a 20-year-old switch-hitting shortstop who can run; unless the ankle is somehow worse than I've heard, it makes no sense to me that he fell out of the top 20, and the Twins are very fortunate that they could grab him. Travis Harrison was in play in the late first/early sandwich as one of the better pure bats in the high school class but might have fallen on signability and concerns he will end up at first base, where I still think the bat will profile. The Twins also got a personal favorite of mine in Hudson Boyd, a big kid with two above-average pitches and outstanding makeup.




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Arizona Diamondbacks

The picks: Trevor Bauer (3), Archie Bradley (7), Andrew Chafin (43),
Summary: I mean, is this cheating, since the Diamondbacks picked twice in the top 10? They sure didn't go cheap with Archie Bradley at No. 7 -- I liked him more than their first pick, Trevor Bauer. And they added Andrew Chafin in the sandwich round, a reliever-turned-starter on the way back from Tommy John surgery who was apparently "disgusting" (that's good) in his last outing prior to the draft.




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San Diego Padres

The picks: Cory Spangenberg (10), Joe Ross (25), Michael Kelly (48), Brett Austin (54)
Summary: The pick at No. 10 was unprotected, and the Padres did what they had to do, taking a signable player there in Cory Spangenberg. But they still got some upside because the kid can fly and has a great left-handed swing; if he had a set position, he might have been projected to go there even without the signability. They also added a high-upside arm in Joe Ross, a guy who adds athleticism to their system.




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Boston Red Sox

The picks: Matt Barnes (19), Blake Swihart (26), Henry Owens (36), Jackie Bradley (40)
Summary: I hinted at this on Twitter, but some of the credit for Boston's draft is just that the right guys fell to the team. However, the Red Sox do deserve the rest of the credit for actually taking them (and, presumably, paying them). They got Blake Swihart, who I think will be an impact hitter and has a chance to do it as a catcher, with their second pick after preseason top-10 guy Matt Barnes -- whose velocity was fine but didn't show great command this year -- fell to them at No. 19. Henry Owens was spot on in the sandwich round as a projectable lefty who already hits 93 mph and has great deception, and they took a flier on Jackie Bradley's recovery from injury much as they did last year with Anthony Ranaudo.




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Moves I question




Atlanta Braves

The picks: Sean Gilmartin (28)
Summary: Sean Gilmartin as your lone pick of the day? I like Gilmartin for what he is, an athletic, competitive, back-end starter, but there were a number of higher-upside guys on the board, and the last thing Atlanta needs is a low-ceiling starter.




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Colorado Rockies

The picks: Tyler Anderson (20), Trevor Story (45)
Summary: Tyler Anderson was going in the first round, so it wasn't a reach by comparative standards, but I see no out pitch here, just a lefty with some command who'll probably be a pitch-to-contact guy at higher levels, not a great fit for the Rockies' park. Trevor Story can pick it at short with a plus arm, but I don't buy the bat and the consensus from scouts I talked to down there was the same.




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Los Angeles Dodgers

The picks: Chris Reed (16)
Summary: I actually don't mind the Chris Reed pick as much as some of my sources -- it's a reach, but put him back in the rotation and it could look very shrewd in a year or so. I'm more concerned about what it means for the club, as my pre-draft report that the Dodgers couldn't go over slot looks like it's probably accurate. That's too bad, especially in a year in which it looks like two dozen clubs might throw the commissioner's slot recommendations out the window.




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Texas Rangers

The picks: Kevin Matthews (33), Zach Cone (37),
Summary: Zach Cone has big tools, but they just don't play, exacerbated by a bad leak out front at the plate, and he was wildly overmatched in the Team USA trials last summer and on the Cape the year before (his only real experience hitting with wood). Kevin Matthews is a tough-sign high school lefty who projects as a reliever because of his frame. That seems the opposite of what you'd expect from a nascent, big-market club such as the Rangers, especially since they were linked to several big-ticket, high-ceiling high school kids.




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Seattle Mariners

The picks: Danny Hultzen (2)
Summary: I'm not criticizing Hultzen in the least here, but I think drafting at No. 2 overall is a rare chance to go for ceiling, and the Mariners didn't do that. They took a very safe, very good college pitcher who will move quickly but doesn't have No. 1 starter upside. And I admit I like my left-handers to have better breaking balls than Hultzen, whose best off-speed pitch is a changeup.




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Best players remaining


The number denotes the player's ranking in my final Top 100 ranking.



1. Josh Bell, OF (ranked No. 15 overall)
2. Dillon Howard, RHP (18)
3. Anthony Meo, RHP (25)
4. Andrew Susac, C (27)
5. Austin Hedges, C (31)
6. Daniel Norris, LHP (35)
7. Alex Dickerson, OF (37)
8. Charles Tilson, OF (38)
9. Nick Delmonico, C/1B (39)
10. Johnny Eierman, SS (44)

Full analysis of the first round.

Spoiler [+]
And now, on to the picks.







Pittsburgh Pirates
Gerrit Cole, RHP, UCLAChurchill: We expected this and Keith Law has been projecting this pick for weeks. I saw him twice and he was so-so both times, but with a plus changeup, big-time velocity up to 100 mph and a promising breaking ball, it's difficult to pass on Cole. The Pirates do not have such a player in their system and the UCLA product could see the big leagues after very little time in the minors. Seattle is looking at Rice third baseman Anthony Rendon here and prep center fielder Bubba Starling is still an outside possibility. I have been told shortstop Francisco Lindor is not the pick for the M's


Seattle MarinersDanny Hultzen, LHP, VirginiaChurchill: Hultzen is a surprise pick here, as the expectation was Rice third baseman Anthony Rendon or prep center fielder Bubba Starling. Hultzen is expected to move quickly and reach the majors within two years, but he does lack the upside of other college pitchers in the class. He did perform well and has above-average stuff including a 90-94 mph fastball and two above-average off-speed pitches. The rumored asking price was high, but perhaps there was a pre-draft deal in place here or strong indications that Hultzen would sign for what Seattle was willing to spend on the pick. Arizona is likely to tab UCLA right-hander Trevor Bauer at No. 3, but with Rendon still on the board, anything goes from this point forward.



Arizona DiamondbacksTrevor Bauer, RHP, UCLA Churchill: Bauer, also a potential quick-mover like Hultzen, is not a surprise here as the D-backs have been linked to the right-hander for some time. The plus curveball, consistency and 91-95 mph velocity overrule the concerns on workload -- he averaged around 130 pitches per start this season -- and the unconventional throwing program he follows diligently. Rendon may not be strongly considered by Baltimore at No. 4, and the O's are said to be considering righty Dylan Bundy from Owasso HS in Oklahoma.


Baltimore Orioles Dylan Bundy, RHP, Owasso (Okla.) HSChurchill: Bundy is a tremendous talent, and despite the lack of ideal size at 6-foot-1 and 190 pounds, he profiles as a No. 1 starter and could hit the big leagues as quickly as many of the college arms in the class. The big fastball -- up to 98 mph -- is just the beginning as he also offers a plus curveball, a potentially useful changeup and a cutter that may be his best secondary offering. He's a workout freak and breaks the mold that scouting director Joe Jordan generally sticks to, but he stays on top of his pitches and is a great competitor. Kansas City has the next pick and it could be Starling or a college arm such as Matt Barnes or Alex Meyer.



Kansas City RoyalsBubba Starling, OF, Garner-Edgerton (Kans.) HSChurchill: Starling may be the best talent in the class, starting with his plus raw power and tremendous all-around tools. Despite standing 6-foot-4 he profiles well in center thanks to good instincts and perhaps 60 speed on the 20-80 scouting scale. He's drawn comparisons to Josh Hamilton, but may be more like 2009 first-round pick and top prospect Mike Trout. The Royals farm system just added another high-ceiling talent with superstar potential. Plus, he gives Kansas City the one thing its farm system lacks: an impact up-the-middle player.


Washington NationalsAnthony Rendon, 3B, RiceChurchill: This was the next spot for Rendon to go after Seattle passed on him at No. 2, and it's clear the Nationals went for best player available, ignoring the fact Ryan Zimmerman is one of the best third baseman in baseball and under contract long term. Rendon's injury concerns may or may not have had something to do with the fall, but the Nationals get a hitter here who could join them on the 25-man roster as early as next season. Where he plays in D.C. remains to be seen, but there has been some chatter about him moving to second base. The Nationals' next pick is at 23 and since they were linked to a lot of college players at No. 6, getting Rendon instead may change their efforts later this round.
Arizona DiamondbacksArchie Bradley, RHP, Broken Arrow (Okla.) HSChurchill: The Diamondbacks ignored the fact this pick is unprotected after failing to sign Texas A&M's Barret Loux a year ago (he failed a post-draft physical) and took the best player on their board in Bradley. With velocity into the mid-90s and the best curveball among prep arms in the class, the upside is huge for Bradley, and he could end up at the top of the rotation. His college commitment may cost the D-backs here, but it's a gutsy pick and a great move if they get him signed. If they don't sign him, they don't get a compensation pick next year, hence the phrase "unprotected."
Cleveland IndiansFrancisco Lindor, SS, Montverde (Fla.) AcademyChurchill: Lindor was considered by Seattle and Arizona, and the Indians get a potential five-tool player who won't turn 18 until November. He's a switch-hitter with pop -- he won the home run derby at the Aflac All-American game last year at age 16 -- and scares opposing coaches from all angles. He's a wizard on defense and projects to not only stick at shortstop but thrive there. The Indians could be in a position to have to trade budding star Asdrubal Cabrera in a few years as he gets more expensive, and now Lindor is set as the successor. The question on Lindor is how real the power is, but scouts generally agree it's above-average relative to the position. Lindor isn't going to be a cheap sign so it appears the Indians are not looking for a slot signing with this pick, which should make Tribe fans happy.
Chicago CubsJavier Baez, SS, Arlington Country Day (Jacksonville, Fla.)Churchill: Baez is one of the best prep bats in the class, with power and a chance to hit for average as well. He played shortstop in high school but is believed to be headed for third base as a pro. The swing is a bit long but there's bat speed to spare and the Cubs are big on upside talent.
San Diego PadresCory Spangenberg, 3B, Indian River State CollegeChurchill: Spangenberg, who player third in college, can run and has a plus hit tool with a chance for some power. This pick is unprotected so the Padres needed a signable player, but if Spangenberg can play up the middle somewhere he's a potential All-Star. He's not expected to play shortstop, his natural position, and doesn't profile to hit for the power generally reserved for third basemen but his athleticism suggests center field is a legitimate option. The Padres called him as a second baseman when they made the pick, so we can assume that's where he will begin his pro career.
Houston AstrosGeorge Springer, OF, UConnChurchill: Springer came into the season as a potential top-5 pick, but showed some mechanical flaws that have scouts concerned that his swing is not sound and will delay his path to the big leagues. There's plus power and speed and he throws well. There is a chance he plays some center field but he has the arm to move to right, and the bat will play there if he fixes the swing.
Milwaukee BrewersTaylor Jungmann, RHP, TexasChurchill: Jungmann has good stuff, sitting 91-95 mph with the fastball and offering two breaking balls of which the slider is the better pitch. He has some delivery concerns -- he throws across his body -- but he's been as consistent as any arm in the country this season and may not need much time in the minors to help the Brewers, and their farm system lacks just about everything. He's big and physical, and could pitch behind Yovani Gallardo and Zack Greinke with No. 2 upside.
New York MetsBrandon Nimmo, OF, East HS (Cheyenne, Wyo.)Churchill: Nimmo is a high-upside play here and a refreshing pick for the Mets. He's a good athlete and could hit for plus power down the road, but his left-handed bat profiles to play in a corner outfield spot, where his arm fits, too. Nimmo brings a good work ethic to the table and he squares up fastballs regularly. His lack of competition -- his high school does not have a team -- made it difficult for him to get seen by scouts, but he's found a way to get noticed, including an impressive display on the showcase circuit last summer.
Florida MarlinsJose Fernandez, RHP, Alonso HS (Tampa, Fla.)Churchill: The Marlins continue to go upside and get Fernandez, a Cuban defector, who offers a plus fastball into the mid-90s. He's 19 years old but fits the profile of the kind of pitcher The Fish like to work. However, the lack of a polished breaking ball could keep him in the minors for four or five years. It's no shock that the Marlins took a kid from Florida, as they were linked to just about every prep player in the state. Fernandez joins 2009 first-rounder Chad James (a southpaw) in a farm system that has produced pitchers Josh Johnson and Ricky Nolasco in recent years.
Milwaukee BrewersJed Bradley, LHP, Georgia TechChurchill: This is a protected pick but the Brewers get another college arm that could hit the big leagues inside of three years. He's a tall southpaw that has touched 97 mph but generally sits 91-94. His breaking ball needs work and his changeup often goes unused, which suggests he could land in the bullpen. He does throw strikes and he has an uncanny ability to avoid the sweet spot of the bat, but his inconsistencies kept him out of the top 10. The Brewers now have two legit rotation candidates out of this draft.
Los Angeles DodgersChris Reed, LHP, StanfordChurchill: We knew this was going to be a slot pick with the current financial situation in L.A. and Reed was mentioned as a possibility by Law on Sunday and as the favorite here earlier today. There's big league ability here and his changeup and slider are his two best pitches, but this was a pick to make sure they landed a player with probability and signability, rather than upside.
Los Angeles AngelsC.J. Cron, 1B, UtahChurchill: Cron possesses perhaps the best power tool among college bats in the entire class. A natural catcher, Cron played first base this season due to a shoulder injury, but that is likely where he ends up as a pro. He makes a lot of contact, too, but doesn't generally work the count all that much. He generates leverage and loft consistently and is believed to have a strong enough ability to hit for average that he'll skate through the minors in a couple of seasons. The Halos need bats, and Cron gives them one.
Oakland Athletics Sonny Gray, RHP, VanderbiltChurchill: Gray has terrific stuff and could have gone in the top 10. Because he's 5-foot-11 or maybe 6 feet tall, there are concerns about his durability, but his command and delivery became bigger concerns late this spring. The velocity is firm in the 92-96 mph range and his curveball is already a plus pitch. With Oakland's present starting rotation, the rich project to get richer, though Gray could end up in the bullpen down the line.
Boston Red SoxMatt Barnes, RHP, UConnChurchill: The Red Sox getting Barnes here is a coup. He's a potential No. 1 or 2 starter and already possesses a 93-97 mph fastball and potentially plus curveball. He holds his velocity late into games and could get to the majors quickly, especially if he gets his feet wet out of the bullpen. Boston has more picks coming on later this evening, but this is a tremendous start as most didn't believe Barnes would get this far.
Colorado Rockies Tyler Anderson, LHP, OregonChurchill: Anderson lacks the stuff and upside of other available college arms, including Kentucky's Alex Meyer, but he's athletic and polished and could be in the majors by the end of 2012 or early in 2013. He has a funky delivery but also a loose arm and when he commands his fastball he's tough to square up. He has two breaking balls, though both are inconsistent and he generally induced swings and misses from the change in speed more than a sharp, late break. If he can add to one of them -- more likely the curveball since he likes to pitch up in the zone a bit -- and find a better feel for a changeup, he could be a mid-rotation starter. More likely he's a back-end arm or a reliever, but one that helps the Rockies sooner than later.
Toronto Blue JaysTyler Beede, RHP, Lawrence Academy (Groton, Mass.)Churchill: The Blue Jays have extra picks but went with some upside with Beede, who could be a tough sign due to a strong commitment to Vanderbilt. He sits in the low-90s and improved his breaking ball this season, which now profiles as an above-average pitch in time. Toronto took righty Aaron Sanchez last year and now add Beede to its crop of young pitchers. It appears Toronto drafted for value here as many of the top college arms are already off the board, except for Kentucky's Alex Meyer.
St. Louis CardinalsKolten Wong, 2B, Hawaii Churchill: The Cardinals passed on Alex Meyer (the best available college pitcher) and prep arms Taylor Guerrieri and Dillon Howard to take Wong, a second baseman with an above-average hit tool. He lacks power, however, so he comes with limited upside. He's an average runner and an average defender but has good hands and could develop into a plus glove. St. Louis went for probability here rather than best player available.
Washington NationalsAlex Meyer, RHP, KentuckyChurchill: They tabbed Rendon at No. 6 and went pitching here with the best available college starter in Meyer. He brings big upside with a plus fastball-slider combo. He's 6-foot-9 and when he keeps his delivery together is dominant and uses the slider to put batters away. There's a chance he's a closer in the future but he holds his velocity well despite some inconsistencies with his command. The Nationals, if we dream for a second, could have four perennial All-Stars out of the past three first rounds in Stephen Strasburg, Bryce Harper, Rendon and Meyer, with an above-average closer in Drew Storen.
Tampa Bay RaysTaylor Guerrieri, RHP, Spring Valley HS (Columbia, S.C.) Churchill: The Rays have 10 of the next 37 picks and certainly didn't go signability here with Guerrieri, who has a commitment to South Carolina. Keith Law ranks him as the No. 3 prep arm in the class, and a scout I spoke to early this season called him a prototypical starter in today's game thanks to a 92-95 mph fastball that has reached 97. His curveball is plus and he's got some athleticism. Tampa got the best player available here, a good start to its busy day.
San Diego PadresJoe Ross, RHP, Bishop O'Dowd HS (Oakland, Calif.)Churchill: Ross may have been the best player on the board. He's not as projectable as his brother Tyson -- who pitches for the A's -- was at the same age, but comes with better command and mechanics. Scouts rave about his delivery and arm action, which suggests he's a safe bet to develop his pitches and progress through the minors. San Diego, having tabbed Spangenberg at No. 10, lands a potential No. 2 starter in Ross.
Boston Red SoxBlake Swihart, C, Cleveland HS (Rio Rancho, N.M.) Churchill: The Red Sox get perhaps the top catcher in the class in Swihart, though there are some questions about his defense. The tools are there and his bat may play in a corner outfield spot if he can't cut it behind the plate. The Red Sox farm system now has a little bit of everything by adding Swihart, a switch-hitting catcher.
Cincinnati RedsRobert Stephenson, RHP, Alhambra (Calif.) HSChurchill: With many of the college arms off the board, the Reds dug into the prep ranks for Stephenson, who touches 94 mph and complements his heater with a promising curveball. There's some effort in his delivery but he's a good athlete and a smart kid on and off the field. His commitment to Washington is strong, but he's considered signable and gives the Reds a young arm with upside.
Atlanta BravesSean Gilmartin, LHP, Florida StateChurchill: Gilmartin gets by with average velocity touching the low 90s by relying on an advanced feel for pitching. His changeup is a plus offering but his curveball is soft, prompting some scouts to compare him to Mariners lefty Jason Vargas. In other words, a No. 4 starter. The Braves have Mike Minor, Julio Teheran and Arodys Vizcaino nearing the big leagues, so their pick of Gilmartin was all about drafting a player that would sign for MLB's recommended bonus for this slot.
San FranciscoJoe Panik, SS, St. John'sChurchill: Panik may have to move to second base due to a below-average arm, but projects to hit for some average as he works counts and shows good pitch recognition. There's not much future power in the bat, however, which could make it difficult for him to crack the starting lineup in San Francisco. The Giants appear to have gone for a slot signing here and several players rank ahead of Panik on Law's Top 100.
Minnesota TwinsLevi Michael, SS, North Carolina Churchill: Michael is the top college shortstop in the class and the Twins may be pairing him with import Tsuyoshi Nishioka in the middle of the infield in a few years. Michael runs well and handles shortstop, but his bat is his best tool and he projects to hit for average and get on base thanks to an ability to use the whole field. The Twins passed on some prep arms but didn't reach for the college pitcher as some expected.
Tampa Bay RaysMikie Mahtook, OF, LSUChurchill: Mahtook's "slide" ends with the Rays, who now have two strong picks with eight remaining tonight. Mahtook can play center field and has a good arm and his power ticked up this season in a strong conference despite the change in bats at the college level. He was generally projected to go in the top 20 and Law had him as high as No. 14 to the Marlins and No. 9 to the Cubs in previous mock drafts. The Rays may have drafted B.J. Upton's replacement, depending on the future status of Desmond Jennings.
Tampa Bay RaysJake Hager, SS, Sierra Vista (Nev.) HSChurchill: The Rays reached here for Hager, a shortstop that most scouts believe needs to go to school and make another run at it in a few years. He's a shortstop with a chance to stay there, but the bat lacks polish and he's merely an adequate overall athlete for the position.
Texas RangersKevin Matthews, LHP, Richmond Hill (Ga.) HSChurchill: The Rangers dig for Matthews, a left-hander committed to the University of Virginia who may very well choose school, despite a seven-figure bonus in the offing. He's likely a reliever in the future, but he has athleticism and above-average velocity. The Rangers have a pick in the compensation round and may choose to go over slot for the right talent with that selection.

Analysis of the compensation round.

Spoiler [+]
Picks 34 through 38

The Nationals, at No. 34, get Brian Goodwin, an athletic outfielder with plus speed and the ability to square up line drives and even hit for some power. ... The Red Sox's pick of prep lefty Henry Owens is another strong selection for the club. Owens is projectable and might have front-line upside. ... The Rangers get the toolsy Zach Cone, who has yet to turn his physical skills into baseball performance. ... Tampa's selection of Brandon Martin adds another potential future shortstop to its system along with Tim Beckham and first-round pick Jake Hager. ... Toronto, at No. 35, reached for Jacob Anderson, but the team has several picks Monday and there is some upside in the outfielder's right-handed bat.



Picks 39 through 43



The Phillies love toolsy players but their top pick two years in a row has been off that trend. Larry Greene has plus power and should be adequate in a corner outfield spot. He's considered an easy sign. ... Jackie Bradley could be the next All-Star center fielder in Boston, and might have gone in the top 20 had it not been for an injury and some stuggles at the plate this spring. ... The Rays get Tyler Goeddel, who profiles better in the outfield than at third base, but there's some upside at the plate, including the potential for above-average power. ... Jeff Ames is a junior college kid with some upside, and at 6-foot-4 and 225 pounds, he has the size to profile in the rotation for the Rays. ... Andrew Chafin, who returned from Tommy John surgery to have a strong season, could be a mid-rotation starter and adds to the crop of legitimate pitching prospects the D-backs have added on Day 1.



Picks 44 through 48



Michael Fulmer gives the Mets another prep kid, but his fastball velocity -- up to 96 mph -- might make him a difficult sign with his commitment to Arkansas. Daniel Norris is still available at this point but might want more than the Mets want to spend, despite the belief that they'd be willing to go over slot at 44. ... Trevor Story, who has a commitment to LSU, could be a tough sign for the Rockies, but he is a solid defender at shortstop and has some strength to offer at the plate, although the questions about the hit tool remain. ... Joe Musgrove gives the Jays a big right-hander with a heavy sinker and a solid delivery, but he currently lacks a breaking ball. ... Keenyn Walker is an upside play for the White Sox and can switch hit with some raw pop. ... Michael Kelly is a projectable right-hander the Padres can pair with first-rounder Joe Ross down the line.



Picks 49 through 53



The Giants go back to the prep ranks after adding a college infielder in the first round. Kyle Crick is a solid, mid-rotation candidate with a plus fastball, but his secondary stuff needs work and he might be a long-term project. ... The Twins get a solid bat in Travis Harrison. He has power and had a chance to go in Round 1, but fell likely because his future is at first base. ... The Yankees added Dante Bichette, whose father of the same name played in the big leagues. He has good makeup and is a future outfielder with a strong arm and some power potential. The hit tool is a question, however. ... Blake Snell is a projectable lefty who touched 94 mph late this spring and is considered a signable player, hence his selection a little higher than his grades suggest. The Rays, however, love the Pacific Northwest, having taken Josh Sale and Drew Vettleson out of the area last spring. ... Dwight Smith, the son of former Cubs outfielder Dwight Smith Sr., is stronger than his father and might have more natural power. He profiles as a left fielder.



Picks 54 through 60



Brett Austin has a solid swing from both sides and a decent chance to stick at catcher for San Diego. He's athletic, so the outfield is also a possibility. ... The Twins get Hudson Boyd, who has touched the mid-90s with his fastball, and he's shown a feel for a slurvy breaking ball that is above average when he stays on top of it. Many believe he's a reliever in the end. ... Kes Carter is among the top smaller-college talents in the country, has some tools and profiles well defensively in a corner outfield spot. The Rays could afford to take a chance on his upside with their plethora of picks. ... The Jays snagged Kevin Comer, a Vanderbilt commit who might be tough to sign. He sits in the 90-93 mph range with his fastball and throws both a slider and curveball, but his command is below average. ... The Padres went for a college shortstop in Jace Peterson, but scouts worry about his ability to hit for average going forward, and the power grades below average. ... At No. 59, the Rays get Grayson Garvin, a 6-foot-6 left-hander with some projection left and a strong recent track record of progress and performance. ... With their 10th pick of the day, the Rays complete the sandwich round by selecting James Harris, an athletic outfielder from the Bay Area. He has all the tools, including above-average bat speed, but is considered raw at the plate. The Rays, considering they couldn't come in and spend $30 million on their first-day picks, have done well to spread out their selections among upside talent in filling gaps in their farm system.
 
The Houston Astros own the record for most players ever drafted in one draft with 100. Pretty much sums up the MLB draft in a nutshell.
 
The Houston Astros own the record for most players ever drafted in one draft with 100. Pretty much sums up the MLB draft in a nutshell.
 
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