2016 MLB Draft 2016 MLB Mock Draft MLB Draft By mlbtopprospects MLB Mock Draft 2016 Picks 1-50Our MLB Mock Draft 2016 takes into consideration teams needs, player potential, and other variables including current injury status. Version 4.0 - June 6, 2016 Countdown to the MLB Draft 2016 1 Kyle LewisSchool: Mercer Year: Junior Position: OF Age: 20 DOB: 7/13/1995 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 195 lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Hit: 50 | Power: 60 | Run: 50 | Arm: 50 | Field: 50 | Overall: 55 MLB Draft Slot Value$9,015,000 Kyle Lewis might be arguably the best all-around hitter in this years draft class. He finished the year 6th in the NCAA with 20 homers (in case you are curious Kris Bryant had 31 his final season at USD). Lewis is scheduled to participate in the College HR Derby on 7/2. His .395 average ranks in the top 15 in the country 66 walks (2nd in the nation) Comparatively speaking he had just 19 walks all of last year. Lewis has also put together a 15-game hit streak already this year. He posted a .367 average last year with 17 homers and 56RBI and 3SB. Which won him the 2015 SoCon Player of the Year and he is the odds on favorite to win it again. Lewis' slow ascend to the national stage increased rapidly last summer when he played in the prestigious Cape Cod League. Kyle posted .300 average with 7 homers and 7 doubles. Scouts absolutely love his power potential. Mechanically his swing has a few moving parts but he generates tremendous bat speed and displays impressive raw power. He does not have a ton of speed and profiles as a corner outfielder. Kyle Lewis to the Phillies best and most logical pick . The best all-around hitter in college baseball should be drafted as the to prospect. . Get Kyle Lewis Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 2 Jason GroomePosition: LHP Age: 17 DOB: 8/23/1998 Bats: L Throws: L Height: 6' 6" Weight: 220 lb. School: Barnegat (N.J.) HS Year: Senior Commitment: Vanderbilt Scouting Grades: Fastball: 65 | Curveball: 60 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 55 | Overall: 60 MLB Draft Slot Value$7,762,900 This guy is very advanced and a physical specimen at 6'6"/220lbs that has a true work ethic that teams love. Jay Groome is also more mature and more focused than most 17-18 years old kids. Case in point, Groome drove more than 70 miles twice a week to work with a strength and conditioning coach to help develop him physically for the rigors of professional baseball. He spent his junior year working with former big leaguer Steve Frey developing his changeup and improving his command on his mid-90s fastball at the IMG Academy in Bradenton FL. He would head back home for his senior year but not without a picking up a wealth of pitching knowledge. Power pitchers that throw this hard, with a knee-buckling curve and that are compared to Clayton Kershaw, don't last long. The Phillies take the best pitcher with the highest upside off the board with the #1 pick. Groome has pitched extremely well this season but his stats might be washed away like chalk on a chalk board. Groome posted a tossed a no-hitter while striking out 19 in mid-April. After the game the New Jersey's high school sports governing body stated that he violated transfer rules after playing at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, last year. According to NJSIAA, Groome's move from Florida back to New Jersey did not constitute a valid change of address in which a parent of guardian moves with the athlete from one public high school to another. This is clearly a blow to Groome however scouts have seen what he can do. Case in point, NJ.com, reported that more than 150 scouts and MLB representatives attended Groome's first start this season, including Phillies general manager Matt Klentak, that game he struck out 10. It may be a brief delay as The Press of Atlantic City reported that Groome will be eligible for Barnegat's 13th game, which was on April 30 at the Ocean City Tournament.Groome has got back onto the mound and has been his dominate self. His first outing after the hiatus was a 2-hit shutout in the Ocean County tournament. His most recent outing was a match up of two prospects (Tyler Mondile). Groome struck out 14 in front of a crowd over 6,000 fans just a few short blocks from Citizens Bank Park in Philly. He ultimately missed three weeks of the season after the fiasco of transferring last year. The Phillies are foolish for not selecting the best pitching prospect in the nation and the Reds have someone that excites their future. Get Jason Groome Cards 3 Corey RaySchool: Louisville Year: Junior Position: OF Age: 21 DOB: 9/22/1994 Bats: L Throws: L Height: 5' 11" Weight: 185 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 33rd (987) - SEA Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 50 | Run: 60 | Arm: 50 | Field: 55 | Overall: 55 MLB Draft Slot Value$6,510,800 If you are a team in search of a guy who fills up the stat sheet and delivers on a very consistent basis, look no further than Corey Ray. Ray delivered a .325 average with 11 homers, 56 RBI, 15 doubles, 5 triples and 34 stolen bases in 2015 for Louisville and then followed that up with a .355 average with 10 stolen bases and .548 slugging percentage leading off for USA Baseball Collegiate National Team in 2015. Ray continued his consistent hitting, through the first 37 games this year as he has posted a .333 avg, 13 doubles, 11 HR (which ties his career high from last year), and 31 stolen bases. Add to his stat sheet two 9-game hitting streaks, he has 12 multi-RBI games, and his 31 stolen bases rank him 2nd in the nation. Oh and he has been named twice already this year ACC Player of the Week. This dude is really, really good on an impressive Louisville squad. The Reds select the most consistent hitter coming from a high-profile program. Ray is a 5-tool talent and will be a fast-riser through the system. The Braves break the streak of selecting a pitcher with their first overall selection (which they have for the last five drafts AND six of the last seven drafts). Get Corey Ray Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 4 AJ PukSchool: Florida Year: Junior Position: LHP Age: 20 DOB: 4/25/1995 Bats: L Throws: L Height: 6' 7" Weight: 230 lb. Scouting Grades: Fastball: 70 | Slider: 50 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 60 MLB Draft Slot Value$5,258,700 During the 2015 season Puk made a name for himself for the wrong reasons, an arrest for trespassing onto a construction site in early April. That incident may have forced Puk to refocus on baseball as he went 3-1 with a 1.82ERA and 59K over the final 39.2IP. Which included a gem (5IP, 1ER, 5K) performance against Virginia. At 6'7" 230 pounds, he is a physically imposing pitcher and has gained velocity over the last two seasons regularly hitting high 90s. His slider has developed nicely into a great secondary pitch. He is a true big time strikeout machine with a fastball that literally jumps on hitters. Puk's 2016 season has been a bit of a rollercoaster - his opening start for the season he allowed 4 runs on 4 hits with 6K and 1BB against Florida Gulf Coast. In total, he has had 6 outings allowing just 2ER or less over his 8 starts. The 11K performance against Missouri really showcased what he can do (7IP, 3H, 1BB, 0ER). After the bumpy start to the season AJ has settled in tossing six outings in a row allowing 2 runs or less in each of his last starts. The most impressive of those outings was an 11K, 3H, 1ER over 6IP performance over powerhouse Vanderbilt on 5/14. He's had double digit strikeout three out of the his last four outings. Puk ranks as the second highest K's per 9 innings in all of College Baseball averaging 13.10 per. The Rockies are quietly building a scary farm system. With Brendan Rodgers having a tremendous season, Kyle Freeland in Double-A pitching extremely well adding a guy like Puk continues to solidify a formidable system. The Rockies grab a polished pitcher in the draft with the #4 selection. Puk may be a fast riser through the system. Get AJ Puk Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 5 Delvin PerezPosition: SS Age: 17 DOB: 11/24/1998 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 3" Weight: 165 lb. Scouting Grades: Hit: 50 | Power: 40 | Run: 60 | Arm: 60 | Field: 60 | Overall: 55School: International Baseball Academy (Puerto Rico) HS Year: Senior Commitment: NONE MLB Draft Slot Value$4,382,200 The Brewers have a very easy selection here, select the next great shortstop of the future. . With blazing speed, soft hands, tremendous range and room to grow, Delvin Perez is a great pick for the Brewers and profiles as their shortstop of the future . Keith Law talked about him on ESPN "Perez was the star of MLB's 2016 Puerto Rico showcase, held this past week at Pedro Montanez Stadium in Cayey, with more than 130 players playing on four teams in the three-day event. Even with several potential Day 1 picks in the group -- all position players -- Perez was head and shoulders above everyone else, showing 70 speed, plus hands, a plus arm and plus raw power right now, with the broad shoulders to add plenty of muscle to his 6-foot-3, 160-pound (listed weight) frame". The Brewers seem to always be in rebuilding mode. The piece Perez together with other project first rounders. 6 Riley PintSchool: St. Thomas Aquinas (Kan.) HS Year: Senior Commitment: LSUPosition: RHP Age: 18 DOB: 11/16/1997 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 195 lb. Scouting Grades: Fastball: 70 | Slider: 60 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 45 | Overall: 60 MLB Draft Slot Value$4,069,200 I really like Pint but I don't value him higher than Groome or Puk. Which makes him the third best pitcher in this years draft class (in my humble opinion). This was a hard decision as we thought that the Brewers might grab Pint instead of the A's but Kyle Lewis is a freak of an athlete so Pint would fall to the A's. Pint normally sits in the 92-94mph range but can reach back and pour it in at 99. His plus change-up has high school hitters baffled and then his curve absolutely buckles knees. He has spent a lot of time with former Royals catcher Mike MacFarlane who (along with Kevin Seitzer own Mac-N-Seitz a KC based travel ball team) has helped develop his knuckle-curve and impressive change-up. Pint is a big kid at 6'4" and wears a size 14 shoe at just 17 years old. Pint posted an 8-0 record with a 2.58 ERA and 59 strikeouts in 57 innings last season at St. Thomas Aquinas near Kansas City. This season he didn't allow a run in his first two starts and struck out 21 in 11 innings while allowing just 3 hits. With 70+ on average attending his outings pitching under pressure is something he is going to have to get used too. Get Riley Pint Cards 7 Blake RutherfordSchool: Chamidade (Calif) College Prep HS Year: Senior Commitment: UCLAPosition: OF Age: 18 DOB: 5/2/1997 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 2" Weight: 190 lb. Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 55 | Run: 60 | Arm: 50 | Field: 50 | Overall: 55 MLB Draft Slot Value$3,756,300 Blake Rutherford ascend on the prospect radar has been very consistent since his Sophomore year in High School. Rutherford cemented himself as the top high school bat with two solid summers of participating on the 18U TEAM USA. With his smooth left-handed line-drive stroke and all around impressive skill set, it's very obvious why scouts adore his total package. Rutherford showcases above-average raw power and speed that profiles well as an corner outfielder. His arm strength is impressive making the switch from center to a corner position more logical. Rutherford will be 19 when draft day comes around, will that deter his draft stock, absolutely not. It's a matter of which team is able to scoop him up first. Blake Rutherford SCOUTING REPORT Get Blake Rutherford Cards 8 Ian AndersonSchool: Shenendehowa (NY) HS HS Year: Senior Commitment: VanderbiltPosition: RHP Age: 17 DOB: 5/2/1998 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 3" Weight: 170 lb. Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Slider: 50 | Changeup: 45 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$3,630,900 Ian Anderson is just three minutes younger than his twin brother Ben, but he has skyrocketed past him on the baseball diamond. A Vanderbilt commit, Anderson started to grab the attention of scouts during his sophomore year in High School as he posted a 7-1 mark with 0.66ERA with 91K in 53.1 innings. Armed with a devastating 94-96 mph fastball, Anderson has all the pedigree to be a solid selection for the Padres. High character, hard-worker and dedicated teammate are all great compliments of Anderson from scouts. Get Ian Anderson Cards 9 Nick SenzelSchool: Tennessee Year: Junior Position: 3B Age: 20 DOB: 6/29/1995 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 1" Weight: 205 lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 50 | Run: 50 | Arm: 55 | Field: 45 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$3,505,800 Senzel is a safe and solid pick for the Tigers at #9. Senzel is a third/second basemen for Tennessee who showcases above average tools across the board. Think Ian Happ but with a little less pop. Senzel has always had talent to be drafted but after demolishing the Cape Cod League (.364/.418/.558) in the summer of 2015, he skyrocketed up the draft boards. Offensively he draws walks, hits for a high average and steals bases. He has walloped over 40 doubles in his college career, as he progresses and adds muscle to his 6'1"/205 frame, those doubles will start flying over the wall. His swing is picturesque and he's baseball iq is off-the-charts. So what's holding him back? Defense. UT has bounced him between 2B and 3B over the last couple years and some scouts say that his feetwork and hands need work. His arm strength is impressive and some say that he projects more as a third baseman than a second baseman. One way or the other the Tigers get solid bat. Get Nick Senzel Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 10 Mickey MoniakSchool: La Costa Canyon (Calif) HS Year: Senior Commitment: UCLAPosition: OF Age: 17 DOB: 5/13/1998 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 2" Weight: 190 lb. Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 40 | Run: 60 | Arm: 50 | Field: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$3,380,600 Within a three year span, Moniak has catapulted himself into the conversation as one of the best high draft prospects in the nationHaving to share headlines with fellow SoCal draft prospect Blake Rutherford, Moniak has carved himself out as hitting machine with above average speed and defensive instincts against some the best competition throughout the USA. Moniak consistently drives the ball to all fields with his very compact swing. The Sox select high school talent instead of spending their first round pick on a college player.Moniak has committed to UCLA, which boasts one of the most impressive crop of young talent headed to the Bruins. Most doubt that he will honor his commitment if he is drafted. Mickey Moniak SCOUTING REPORT Get Mickey Moniak Cards 11 Jordan SheffieldSchool: Vanderbilt Year: Redshirt Soph Position: RHP Age: 20 DOB: 6/1/1995 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 0" Weight: 185 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 13th (383) - BOS Scouting Grades: Fastball: 70 | Slider: 60 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 45 | Overall: 55 MLB Draft Slot Value$3,286,700 Jordan Sheffield will be the first Redshirt Sophomore drafted this year. Sheffield was red-shirted for his freshman year at Vanderbilt in 2014 as he recovered from Tommy John surgery. He had been on many scouts radars since his high school days but opted to head to Vandy to improve his draft position. After rehabbing his first taste of high-competition was 2015 and he flourished. He finished the year with a 2.85ERA, 60IP, 16 relief appearances and six starts. His command was an issue during the season and continued throughout the Cape Cod League. Sheffield has been stellar in 2016 posting 2.29ERA over his first 11 starts. Has has improved his command walking 26, striking out 87 over 70.2 innings this season. So what makes him so special? His low to mid 90's fastball, solid changeup, and clean mechanics. He is expected to be just like his brother Justus as a first-rounder. This a great pick for the Mariners. Considering the state of the pitching in their minor leagues Sheffield quickly becomes a top three prospect in their farm system. Get Jordan Sheffield Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 12 Bryan ReynoldsSchool: Vanderbilt Year: Junior Position: OF Age: 20 DOB: 1/27/1995 Bats: B Throws: R Height: 6' 2" Weight: 210lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 45 | Run: 55 | Arm: 40 | Field: 55 | Overall: 55 MLB Draft Slot Value$3,192,800 Reynolds is special talent. He can flat out hit, play solid defense and has projectable power. Right now he's been the Commodores starting center fielder but is athletically gifted enough to pretty much play any where on the diamond. This switch-hitter generates tremendous bat speed and has impressive plate discipline. Coming into the opening weekend of May, Reynolds has 54 hits most of which are of the extra base variety - 12 doubles, 2 triples and 10 homers. His stolen bases have not come as frequently as they have had in the past but he has the speed to swipe 10-15 annually. So what makes him a good fit for the Red Sox? The Sox LOVE drafting advanced college bats and Reynolds fits their mold. Andrew Benintendi was the Sox first round pick in 2015 and immediately clobbered 12 homers, stole 16 bags and finished the year with a .328 clip over just 74 games. That's a ridiculous combo of these two along with Moncada, and Devers. The Red Sox minor league system ranks in the top three and will continue to be there as long as they add depth like Reynolds. Get Bryan Reynolds Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 13 Nick BanksSchool: Texas A&M Year: Junior Position: OFAge: 21 DOB: 11/18/1994 Bats: L Throws: L Height: 6' 0" Weight: 200 lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 50 | Run: 55 | Arm: 55 | Field: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$3,098,900 Nick Banks is the starting centerfielder for Texas A&M. One of the most impressive attributes of him, aside from his high average hitting is his absolute rocket arm. This dude has an absolute hose. Ok enough about his arm, let's talk more about what he can do at the plate. Banks is a guy that offers a short-compact swing from the left side. Not a ton of power but he's a gap-to-gap kind of guy with the potential to hit 10-15 homers in pro ball. Physically he is is pretty strong with a solid build. There is not much more projectability left in his frame but more refining in his overall game. A guy that gets comparisons to Nick Markakis or Lorenzo Cain should be a first round pick. The Rays have a very safe pick in an absolutely loaded draft class. Get Nick Banks Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 14 Josh LoweSchool: Pope (Ga.) HS HS Year: Senior Commitment: Florida StatePosition: 3B/RHP Age: 17 DOB: 2/2/1998 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 190 lb. Scouting Grades: Hit: 50 | Power: 50 | Run: 60 | Arm: 60 | Field: 55 | Overall: 50 Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Slider: 55 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,973,700 Lowe is two-way player at Pope HS in Georgia staring on the mound and at third base. Offensively Lowe offers some pop from the left-side. From the mound a 91-93 guy with the ability to add several pitches. The one knock about Josh Lowe is his ability to stay healthy. He has had a knack for injuries over the last two seasons. Lowe comes from a solid baseball family, his brother Nathaniel was drafted in 2015 but opted to attend Mississippi State and should be an early round pick this year. The Indians grab a guy that they like more for his bat than pitching. Get Josh Lowe Cards 15 William BensonSchool: The Westminster (Ga.) Schools HS Year: Senior Commitment: DukePosition: OF Age: 17 DOB: 6/6/1998 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 6" Weight: 220 lb. Scouting Grades: Hit: 50 | Power: 60 | Run: 55 | Arm: 55 | Field: 55 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,817,100 When you watch Benson on tape most people immediately think "he's a younger Jason Heyward". The swing mechanics are the almost identical, defensively he runs great routes, he has above-average speed and he's from Georgia. The Angels hope that they are able to draft the second-coming of the 3X gold-glove winner and All-Star. He is a little raw but the talent is evident. The Twins love projectable talent that they can mold and devlelop - Byron Buxton, Berrios, etc. Benson fits their draft strategy. Get William Benson Cards 16 Buddy ReedSchool: Florida Year: Junior Position: OF Age: 20 DOB: 4/27/1995 Bats: S Throws: L Height: 6' 4" Weight: 185 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 35th (1060) - TEX Scouting Grades: Hit: 50 | Power: 50 | Run: 70 | Arm: 60 | Field: 60 | Overall: 55 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,660,800 Buddy Reed is a scrapy, hard-nosed, hustler of a ballpayer. Reed is also known for a solid outfield glove and a high baseball iq. He's a guy that makes everyone around him better with his team-first mentality. This season Reed has put together a solid year with an average right at .300, a .400+ on-base percentage and has double-digit stolen bases. Reed's makeup and skill-set is very similar to Cameron Maybin. Reed's season stats are not that impressive so don't be surprised if he falls even further. Get Buddy Reed Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 17 Drew MendozaSchool: Lake Mineola (Fla.) HS HS Year: Senior Commitment: Florida StatePosition: 3B/SS Age: 18 DOB: 6/6/1998 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 195 lb. Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 50 | Run: 50 | Arm: 60 | Field: 50 | Overall: 55 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,504,200 Mendoza is a two-sport standout at Lake Minneola in Florida. About as athletically gifted as they come at his age, Mendoza features a smooth three-point shot and an even smoother left-handed swing. Mendoza has signed his NLI to attend Florida State and pencils in as one of their top recruits in the nation. Mendoza's parents both attended FSU, so the decision of signing and starting his pro career or head off to college is a much deeper decision that the financial implications. Mendoza delivers a line-drive stroke with projectable power. He is a doubles hitter and some scouts project him as a 15-20 homer kind of guy. Many publications compare him to Manny Machado, which for Astros fans this is very encouraging. The 'Stros have had tremendous success of the last few years in the draft and their philosophy fits with the pick of Drew Mendoza. Get Drew Mendoza Cards 18 Bobby DalbecSchool: Arizona Year: Junior Position: 3B/RHP Age: 20 DOB: 6/29/1995 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 219 lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Hit: 45 | Power: 60 | Run: 30 | Arm: 60 | Field: 45 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,441,600 Coming into the 2016 season Dalbec was deemed a duel-threat, a power-bat and a fearless relief pitcher on the mound. So far this season only half of that is true. Dalbec has performed well on the mound posting an ERA around 2.78 over 19 appearances (3 starts), 47K/58.1IP and 22BB but at the plate, not as impressive - .230ish average with 5HR, and 8 doubles. Not outstanding by any means but the talent is there he as he proved it during the summer of 2015 at the Cape Cod league blasting a league high 12 homers along with 30RBI and a .315 average. So what do scouts think of his less than impressive season at the plate? MLB.com exaggerates (as per usual) saying that he is the top power prospect this year and Baseball America pegged to him to win the PAC-12 Player of the Year Honors. The power is legit to an extent however he has to work himself into better counts and the right hitting coach should be able to help him with good adjustments to cut down his "all or nothing" swing. The Yankees like projects so this is a logical pick for them. Don't be surprised if he falls deeper in the first round. Get Bobby Dalbec Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 19 Connor JonesSchool: Virgina Year: Junior Position: RHP Age: 21 DOB: 10/10/1994 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 3" Weight: 200 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 21st (628) - SD Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Slider: 55 | Curveball: 45 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 55 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,378,800 Connor Jones sat in the shadows of Nathan Kirby (Brewers 40th overall selection in 2015) last season despite posting a 3.19ERA over 115.2 innings with 113K and 52 walks for Virginia. The innings pitched ranked #1 in the ACC and his strikeout totals placed him third highest at the end of the season. The walks were the area of concern as he prepared for the Junior year. He's done a pretty good job limiting the amount walks by not trying to strikeout everyone this year. Batters are hitting a .211 clip (as of 5/10) against Jones this year. Jones has all the makings of a solid, reliable work-horse. He captured the ACC player of the week to open up the month of May after firing his second complete game of the year (2nd in his last 4 starts) and carried a one-hitter into the ninth. Jones throws a hard biting sinker and a 90-93 heater. His slider is a work in progress but the Mets know a thing or two about teaching pitchers how to properly throw a slider just ask Noah Syndergaard. Despite the terrible track record of Virginia pitchers developing in the Minors, the Mets grab a quality arm. Get Connor Jones Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 20 Daulton JefferiesSchool: California Year: Junior Position: RHPAge: 20 DOB: 8/2/1995 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 0" Weight: 180 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 39th (1162) - MIA Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Curve: 50 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 55 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,316,300 Jefferies may have the some of the best command out of all of the draft though his stature might push his draft position a little lower than most advanced college arms. Statistically speaking, he is in the 5 in the country in K per 9. The Golden Bears Ace has drawn comparisons to the A's Sonny Gray for his compact delivery, impressive command and 92-94 mph heater. He offers four true offerings that could develop into MLB average if not a tick higher. He was former shortstop, Jefferies is very athletic. The one other item that may push his draft status down was that he missed some time with a strained shoulder. Nothing too serious but Cal forced him to sit and let it heal on it's own. Cal Baseball coaches have openly said "we will not be the ones who ruin your baseball career". As of May 4, he has been throwing bullpen sessions and is expected to make a start before the end of the regular season. Despite his size, the Dodgers grab Jefferies with pick 20. Forming unbelievable amount of pitching talent in the Minors that is down right scary Daulton Jefferies SCOUTING REPORT Get Daulton Jefferies Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 20 Kyle FunkhouserSchool: Louisville Year: Senior Position: RHPAge: 21 DOB: 3/16/1994 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 2" Weight: 218 lb. Previously Drafted: 2015, 1st (35) - LAD Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Slider: 55 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,285,100 Kyle Funkhouser bet on himself by not signing with the Dodgers as the 35th overall selection in the 2015 draft. So far this season it's proved to be bad gamble for Kyle. Through 12 starts Funkhouser has a 4.54ERA having walked 40 batters in 69.1 innings and giving up a team high 35 earned runs as well as 6 homers. Funkhouser still has his reputation of a quality work-horse with 3+ pitches that pile up the strikeouts. So what makes him a logical selection for the Jays? Aside from his fearless mentality on the mound, three quality pitches and his physical size? The Jays love K's and right-handers. Look at their track record - they have drafted more right-handed pitchers in the first round (9) in the last 11 drafts than any other team. Of those selections, most of which were hard-throwing righties. Kyle Funkhouser Scouting Report Get Kyle Funkhouser Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 22 Zack BurdiSchool: Lousiville Year: Junior Position: RHP Age: 20 DOB: 3/19/1995 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 3" Weight: 210 lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Fastball: 75 | Slider: 50 | Changeup: 45 | Control: 55 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,253,700 Zack Burdi has one thing that no other pitcher in this draft offers - a 100mph fastball. He has been absolutely scary working out of Louisville's 'pen this year. As of 5/18, he has a 2.25ERA with 42K in just 24IP with 7BB. Zack is the younger brother of Twins prospect and fellow flame-thrower Nick. Nick was a 2nd round selection by the Twins in 2014 ironically out of Louisville. Not sure what the Burdi brothers did when they were younger to develop such strong arms. Nick at one point during his college career hit 103. Zack has a great chance of one-upping his brother this year. In 2015, Zack posted a 0.92ERA which earned him an All-American status in his first season as the Cardinals' closer. It would be hard to top such outstanding numbers from a year ago, but Zack has done a tremendous job this year. Aside from his eye-popping fastball, Zack actually has three total pitches that he can throw for strikes. His command is surprisingly good for a guy who throws this hard. The Pirates have their closer of the future. Rankings of Top College Prospects 23 Zack BrownSchool: Kentucky Year: Junior Position: RHPAge: 21 DOB: 12/15/1994 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 2" Weight: 200 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 38th (1128) - CHC Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Curveball: 55 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,222,500 Zack's Kentucky BIO pretty much sums up what he is - "a flame throwing right-hander with a good feel for his secondary pitches". It goes on to say " bulldog competitor with great athleticism". All of those descriptive characteristics are 100% accurate. Brown is not scared of throwing his mid to low 90's fastball in any count to any hitter. His stats do not do justice of how much of a talent he truly is. He's going to have to learn to control his emotions and his overpowering fastball to be a true top prospect but the Cardinals get a project guy similarly to what they drafted Tyrell Jenkins a few years ago. Whom the eventually traded. Get Zack Brown Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects Compensation Selections 24 Nolan JonesFor Padres (for free agent Justin Upton; Tigers gave up third-round pick)School: Holy Ghost (Pa.) Prep HS Year: Senior Commitment: VirginiaPosition: 3B Age: 17 DOB: 5/2/1998 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 185 lb. Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 50 | Run: 50 | Arm: 50 | Field: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,191,200 I wouldn't be surprised if Nolan gets drafted higher that 24th this year. This dude can flat out hit. With a smooth left-handed stroke with surprising power, Jones generate a ton of bat speed and is arguably the top hitting prep shortstop in the nation. Nolan's tremendous bat speed and hand eye coordination comes from his hockey background. Jones has played Hockey most of his life until his Junior year and even accepted a hockey scholarship at Penn State prior to eventually settling in on his baseball commitment to Virginia. His above-average arm strength and his lanky frame is projectable. He does have a few hitches in his swing but that is something that professional hitting coaches can iron out. Solid pick for the Pads at 24. Get Nolan Jones Cards 25 For Ian Kennedy, who signed with the Royals. Kansas City forfeited its first-round pick.Jake FraleySchool: LSU Year: Junior Position: OF Age: 20 DOB: 5/25/1995 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 0" Weight: 185 lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 35 | Run: 60 | Arm: 45 | Field: 55 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,159,900 Fraley is a gamer. He finished the regular season with a .332 average 3 homers, 9 doubles, 35 RBI, 24 stolen bases, 29 walks, and just 20K in 220 at-bats. Solid stats but nothing that screams he is a first-rounder. Fraley does a lot of things right. Mechanically sound left-handed swing, hustles, runs great routes, solid but not outstanding arm, high baseball iq and grinds out at-bats. Last season Alex Bregman went 2nd overall in the draft and Fraley's stats are similar to his - .323 average, 22 doubles, 3 triples, 9 homers, 49RBI, 59 runs and 38 stolen bases. Fraley is solid selection for the Padres who have quickly assembled two high valued draft prospects. Rankings of Top College Prospects 26 Matt KrookFor Jeff Samardzija, who signed with the Giants. San Francisco forfeited its first-round pick.School: Oregon Year: Redshirt Sophomore Position: LHPAge: 21 DOB: 10/21/1994 Bats: L Throws: L Height: 6' 3" Weight: 205 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, CBA (35) - MIA Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Curve: 60 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,128,500 Krook has had a roller coaster season. Some outings he's been unhittable and others he looks like he was throwing batting practice. His command has been an issue as this is a his first full season back after redshirting last year with Tommy John surgery. The talent is there but he really needs to continue to work on his secondary pitches. The confidence is there but the execution is not where it needs to be. That being said, Krook is still a wonderful first round selection by the Sox. He's a few years away but will be worth the wait. Get Matt Krook Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 27 Kevin GowdyFor Wei-Yin Chen, who signed with the Marlins. Miami forfeited its second-round pick.School: Santa Barbara (Calif.) HS HS Year: Senior Commitment: UCLAPosition: RHP Age: 18 DOB: 11/16/1997 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 170 lb. Scouting Grades: Fastball: 55 | Slider: 55 | Changeup: 55 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,097,200 Gowdy has a lot of things going well for him; at 6'4", he's a big kid with a really good feel for pitching. Scouting departments across the country view him as a projectable righty that has all the ingredients of having three above average pitches. Playing in Southern California has it benefits as Gowdy has he has steadily improved his fastball command, velocity to 91-93 range and his mechanics. His breaking ball is an offering that he will continue to work on this season and it should develop to be a average slider. Most High School pitchers are two-pitch pitchers but Gowdy has developed a changeup that shows great deception. Despite the less than stellar performance with TEAM USA, a strong senior season will skyrocket Gowdy draft status. Kevin Gowdy Scouting Report Get Kevin Gowdy Cards 28 Robert TylerFor Jordan Zimmermann, who signed with the Tigers. Detroit forfeited its second-round pick.School: Georgia Year: Junior Position: RHP Age: 20 DOB: 6/18/1995 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 225 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 28th (849) - BAL Scouting Grades: Fastball: 70 | Curveball: 50 | Changeup: 55 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,065,900 Robert Tyler is widely known throughout the SEC as a hard-thrower with command issues but has all the makings of a stud. Tyler finished the regular season with a 4.10ERA over 14 starts with 89K in 74.2innings. The command issues continued throughout the season as he finished the year with 46 walks. That being said, he did have games where he truly showed his ace potential. He opened the season with a 13K, 5inning outing against Georgia Southern. Tyler's secondary offerings are a changeup which profiles as above-average. It's late deception is tremendous but he has a tough time throwing it for strikes. His tight curve is average at best but his mechanics make that pitch a little tougher to throw. All things considered when you find a flame-thrower who tops out at 96 you take your chances. The Nationals have done a tremendous job developing pitchers over the last few years so this is a logical pick for them. Get Robert Tyler Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 29 Austin BergnerFor Ian Desmond, who signed with the Rangers. Rangers forfeited its first-round pick.School: Windermere (Fla.) Prep HS Year: Senior Commitment: North CarolinaPosition: RHP Age: 18 DOB: 5/1/1997 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 180 lb. Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Curve: 55 | Changeup: 45 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,034,600 Bergner is a big kid - 6'4", 180lbs. He is one of the top draft prospects out of a baseball state (Florida) and profiles as a workhorse starter. Mechanically he is clean with very loose arm action out of the 3/4 slot. For a young kid he commands his 91-93 fastball fairly well. Bergner grabbed the attention of scouts when began playing on the national stage while just a freshman. As he gets older and more developed he will put more weight on and the fastball will increase a few tickets. He's a great athlete with the ability to dominate the game. He piled up 85K over 52.2inning in 2015 while allowing 17 walks. A great project for the Nationals and coupled with Tyler to solid selections that they can build around. Get Austin Bergner Cards 30 Ian HamiltonFor Yovani Gallardo, who signed with the Orioles. Orioles forfeited its first-round pick.School: Washington State Year: Junior Position: RHPAge: 20 DOB: 6/16/1995 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 1" Weight: 195 lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Fastball: 65 | Slider: 55 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$2,003,400 Hamilton put together an interesting season for the Cougars this year - 4.89 ERA, 81IP, 29BB, 61K over 14 starts. But what the stats don't tell you is how impressive he truly is. During the summer of '15 Hamilton pitched in the high-level Cape Cod league and was one of the best pitchers posting a 0.89ERA with 39K in 40.1IP working mostly out of the 'pen. He's a guy that profiles as a bullpen arm potentially even a closer. Hamilton has been working on his offerings all season including adding a changeup. Hamilton is WSU career leader in saves with 25. He does a tremendous job keeping the ball low in the zone and challenging hitters with his slider. Should be a great reliever in pro ball. Rankings of Top College Prospects 31 Zach CollinsFor Daniel Murphy, who signed with the Nationals. Washington forfeited its first-round pick.School: Miami Year: Junior Position: CatcherAge: 21 DOB: 2/6/1995 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 3" Weight: 220 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 27th (825) - CIN Scouting Grades: Hit: 50 | Power: 50 | Run: 30 | Arm: 45 | Field: 40 | Overall: 55 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,972,100 Collins was a top 100 prospect in 2013 but his steadfast commitment to Miami pushed a lot of teams away from him. The Reds gave it a try in the 27th round but ultimately Collins opted to honor his agreement. A short three years later Collins has emerged as one of the top hitting catchers in the country and a sure bet to be a first round pick. Collins has a reputation of being a tremendous hitter but defensively he lacks the ability to be a top level catcher. He has improved his pop times and his mechanics have improved since high school but overall he may be relegated to first base. His bat truly makes him a top selection as he routinely hit double digit homers in his college career and those numbers should translate in pro ball. He has an advanced approach and delivers in the clutch consistently driving in runs. Last season he was second in the ACC with 70 RBI and his 52 puts him in the top 10 this year. Think of him as a poor mans Nolan Arenado with the bat. That makes him a really good fit for the Mets. Rankings of Top College Prospects 32 Logan ShoreFor Zack Greinke, who signed with the D-backs. Arizona forfeited its first-round pick.School: Florida Year: Junior Position: RHP Age: 21 DOB: 12/28/1994 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 1" Weight: 210 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 29th (860) - MIN Scouting Grades: Fastball: 55 | Slider: 45 | Changeup: 60 | Control: 55 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,940,700 Sure AJ Puk gets all of the attention but Logan Shore has been the most consistent start for Florida as he has served as their Friday night starter for three years. He's had success each year and this year everything clicked - 10-0 with a 2.33ERA, 3 complete games, 85IP, 13BB, 76K and a batting average against at .220. Shore was just recently honored for his tremendous season by being named the SEC Pitcher of the Year. Shore is about a safe pick as any. He's a durable arm who throws strikes, works quickly and keeps hitters off balance. He's not going to blow you away with a fastball he's going to outsmart you and his command will keep you guessing. His change-up is by far his best pitch and he has the courage to throw it in any count. He has been able to locate it about it consistently as Donald Trump's bad hair. Shore has a slurve that needs work but is serviceable. When it's on - it's awesome. When it's not, it looks like a bp fastball. So why pick 32 for the Dodgers? Nothing flashy about Shore, he works hard and is projected to be a nice back-end starter. After the issues with Kyle Funkhouser last year Shore makes everyone look good. Rankings of Top College Prospects 33 Ryan BoldtFor John Lackey, who signed with the Cubs. Chicago forfeited its first-round pick.School: Nebraska Year: Junior Position: OFAge: 21 DOB: 11/22/1994 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 2" Weight: 212 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 22nd (653) BOS Scouting Grades: Hit: 55 | Power: 40 | Run: 55 | Arm: 45 | Field: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,909,500 Boldt put together a tremendous season at Nebraska in 2015 posting team highs in average (.344), hits (75) and runs (45) which prompted a lot of scouts to start showing up to his games. He didn't improve his stats this season as he finished the year with a .296 average with 14 doubles, 30RBI, 20 stolen bases and 48 runs scored. He's a sure bet to be a solid top of the order guy with speed to swipe 15-20 bases per season. He finished ninth in the BIG 10 in hits (74) and fourth in stolen bases. Why is he a perfect selection for the Cardinals - look at their last five draft picks. Nick Plummer in 2015 -a guy who can hit, steal bases and has a little pop, 2013 Oscar Mercado (in 2014 the Cardinals didn't draft a hitter until the 7th selection), James Ramsey in 2012, Stephen Piscotty in 2012 as well. All of these hitters are the same exact mold. Not big boppers. It's the first of two selections in a row for the Cards. Rankings of Top College Prospects 34 Dakota HudsonFor Jason Heyward, who signed with the Cubs. Chicago forfeited its second pick.School: Mississippi State Year: Junior Position: RHP Age: 21 DOB: 9/14/1994 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 5" Weight: 205 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 36th (1090) - TEX Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Slider: 60 | Curveball: 50 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,878,000 Hudson really helped his draft status this season by posting impressive numbers; 2.35ERA, 3CG over 15 starts, 103.1IP, 107K and 30BB. Very good numbers in a strong league. He had three double-digit strikeout games, and had all but three of his starts allowing 3 runs or less. He's efficient, durable and a strong big kid. The Cardinals love pitching which makes Dakota a very logical selection presuming he's around at this position. With a 92-94 fastball, a wipe-out slider and control that improved tremendously over his sophomore season, there is a lot to like about Hudson. Rankings of Top College Prospects Supplemental First Round Selections 35 Jesus LuzardoSchool: Stoneman Douglas (Fla.) HS Year: Senior Position: LHPAge: 18 DOB: 9/30/1997 Bats: L Throws: L Height: 6' 1" Weight: 205 lb. Commitment: Miami Scouting Grades: Fastball: 50 | Curve: 50 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 55 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,837,200 Luzardo this year was expected to be the ace and highly regarded high-school pitcher this season. Armed with a 97 mph fastball, mature off-speed stuff and pitchability. Luzardo went under the knife in March and is recovering from Tommy John surgery. He won't be the first of the draft picks selected that is recovering from Tommy John. 2014 East Carolina's Jeff Hoffman went to the Blue Jays as the 9th overall selection, the Nationals selected Erick Feede (2014 -18th pick) and Lucas Giolito (2012 -16th overall). The Reds grab him at pick 35 and have a A+ draft so far in 2016. 36 Alex SpeasCompensation For not signing 2015 No. 35 overall pick Kyle FunkhouserSchool: McEachern (Ga.) HS HS Year: Senior Position: RHPAge: 17 DOB: 3/4/1998 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 190 lb. Commitment: AUBURN Scouting Grades: Fastball: 70 | Curveball: 60 | Changeup: 45 | Control: 45 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,791,000 Speas features tremendous arm-strength - touching mid 90's routinely as a teenager. He has been highly recruited and has signed his NLI to Auburn. That might be a moot point as he more than likely will be drafted early in the 2016 mlb draft. The hard-throwing righty does have one small issue - he has trouble with command. at 6'4", 190 he has room to physically develop. His secondary stuff needs work. His curve is average at best right now but under the right circumstances it could develop into a plus pitch. His mechanics are clean but he needs a little refining in repeating his delivery. 37 Mike ShawarynSchool: Maryland Year: Junior Position: RHP Age: 21 DOB: 9/17/1994 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 3" Weight: 210 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 32nd (954) - KC Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Slider: 55 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 55 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,745,700 The Mike Shawaryn debate continues - is a high-level draft prospect? He posted astonishing numbers after his sophomore season at Maryland - 17 starts, 13W, 1.71ERA, school-record 138K . Exciting numbers regardless where you pitch. Shawaryn would follow up his Soph. season with solid numbers this year: 3.18ERA, 15 starts, 3CG, 99IP, 97K, batting average against .195. His 3/4 arm slot has raised a few questions with scouts. He had been pitching from a higher slot in the fall and would adjust it this season resulting in more bite from his slider. His fastball hits low 90s and his average changeup has potential. Get Mike Shawaryn Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 38 Reggie LawsonSchool: Victor Valley (Calif.) HS HS Year: Senior Position: RHP Age: 18 DOB: 8/2/1997 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 185 lb. Previously Drafted: Arizona State Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Curve: 50 | Changeup: 45 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,701,600 The Rockies love to draft tall, projectable (and a little unpolished) pitchers early in the draft. True to form, in the 2015 draft they plucked three high school pitchers with their first five picks. Lawson clearly fits the mold that the Rockies have focused on. His junior year, Lawson with top out at 91-92 and a "needs improvement" breaking ball. Through hard work and conditioning he would add a tick to his fastball (now 92-93) and his breaking pitch started to show signs of life. Like most raw high school pitchers, his changeup is also a work in progress but it does show promise. His command is tremendous for such a young pitcher. A big senior season could catapult him into the conversation as a top 25 pick but #38 overall would be a HUGE vote of confidence in his development. Reggie Lawson Scouting Report 39 Zach LinginfelterSchool: Sevier County (Tenn.) HS HS Year: Senior Position: RHP Age: 18 DOB: 4/10/1997 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 5" Weight: 225 lb. Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Slider: 55 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,658,600 Zach Linginfelter is one big kid - he's the most physically intimidating high school pitcher in this years draft. He captured the Tennessee Player of the Year honors courtesy of a over-powering fastball and a devastating slider. Can he stay consistent throughout an entire year of pro ball? That's the questions a lot of scouts are asking. Linginfelter sits between 92-96 on his fastball which features sink and a little run. His slider is sharp and sits consistently around 79-82. His changeup is a work in progress but it does show late life. His high three-quarters arm slot helps him throw on the downward plane. His delivery is repeated consistently. The DBacks get a great kid in which they can take their time with to develop. 40 Eric LauerVia trade with MarlinsSchool: Kent State Year: Junior Position: LHP Age: 20 DOB: 6/3/1995 Bats: R Throws: L Height: 6' 3" Weight: 205 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 17th (505) - TOR Scouting Grades: Fastball: 55 | Slider: 55 | Curveball: 50 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 55 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,616,800 If it was not for a crowded draft class of great pitchers Lauer might be drafted even higher. He was the top pitching prospect in Ohio High Schools in 2013 and a star wide receiver. He had committed to Kent State the Blue Jays would ultimately draft him in the 17th round. He's done a wonderful job in college and pitching in the hitter heavy Cape Cod League (50K in 39 2/3 innings) last summer. The 2016 MAC pitcher of the year had a wonderful junior season and finished the year on a high note allowing just three earned runs in his final 12 starts. He posted a NCAA Division I best with a 0.69 ERA that's the lowest for a starter at that level since 1979.He has four quality pitches and mixes them well. His low-90s fastball has slight cutting action and nice downhill plane. His 78-83 mph slider is good but needs refinement. His curve and changeup are low 70's range. He has clean and repeatable mechanics and has been very healthy physically during his college career. He profiles as a MLB 3-4 start and has a chance to become the first Golden Flashes starter drafted in the first round since Dustin Hermanson went third overall in 1994 Rankings of Top College Prospects 41 Braxton GarrettSchool: Florence (Ala.) HS HS Year: Senior Position: LHPAge: 18 DOB: 8/5/1997 Bats: R Throws: L Height: 6' 3" Weight: 190 lb. Commitment: Vanderbilt Scouting Grades: Fastball: 55 | Curveball: 60 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,576,000 Garrett is the state of Alabama's top high school pitching prospect and has committed to Vandy. However, the Pirates might have a reason to change his mind. Braxton Garret received national attention when he was part of 18U TEAM USA World Cup in Japan this past September. Garret's claim is his knee-buckling curve that has kept hitters guessing all year. It normally spins in between 75-79 with tremendous bite. His fastball sits in the 88-92 range but he has been known to run it up to 94 every now and then. He's a thin kid so as his body fills out the fastball should tick a little higher. His changeup has been a work in progress but shows signs of improvement throughout the year. He has thrown it more this year than his junior year. His mechanics are fluid however, they are very loose with a whipping action. Scouts pinpoint him as a clear #2 starter in pr ball. He's a hard-nosed kid who has been coached by his dad in High School at Florence. The work ethic, baseball iq, and projectability are there for the Pirates. 2nd Round of the MLB Mock Draft 2016 42 Chris OkeySchool: Clemson Year: Junior Position: C Age: 21 DOB: 12/29/1994 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 5' 11" Weight: 195 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 31st (928) - SD Scouting Grades: Hit: 45 | Power: 50 | Run: 40 | Arm: 50 | Field: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,536,200 Highly recruited in his school, Okey was the top catcher available in the 2013 draft class Scouts quickly found out he was steadfast committed to his college selection he fell to the 32st round. That's not going to happen this year. Okey is one of the top catchers in all of college baseball and was recently recognized as the All ACC first-team. He's a very athletic catcher that can hit for a little pop, ok average but play stellar defense. A double-digit homer and doubles year is not out of the question for him. He is a scouts dream when it comes to work ethic, ability to manage a pitching staff and his pop time is not outstanding but not terrible. Like most catchers he's a bit on the slow side on the base paths. Get Chris Okey Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 43 Cody SedlockSchool: Illinois Year: Junior Position: RHP Age: 20 DOB: 6/19/1995 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 4" Weight: 210 lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Slider: 55 | Curveball: 50 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,497,500 Sure Tyler Jay grab the headlines as he was the #6 overall selection in the 2015 draft but pitching in Jays shadows has done a tremendous job for Sedlock's draft status. More scouts come out to see your ace pitch and more scouts see you pitch. His Cape Cod league performance cemented him as a prospect and he further delivered with a standout spring season that saw his break the schools single-season strikeout record and capture the Big Ten Conf. Pitcher of the Year honors. This was the first full-year Sedlock performed as a start and he ended up developing three-may-four quality pitches. He finished the year with 14 starts, 2.49 ERA in 101 innings, 116/31 K/BB, 80 hits. Since becoming a starter, every statistical category has improved making him a worth-while first round selection. He was a 87-90 mph fastball guy in high school and has added 15 pounds and upped his average to 91-93 range. His decisive slider and power curve are two pitches that have kept hitters off balance all season long. Considering the (lack of) innings he has pitched durability is not an issue with him Rankings of Top College Prospects 44 Ben BowdenSchool: Vanderbilt Year: Junior Position: LHP Age: 21 DOB: 10/21/1994 Bats: L Throws: L Height: 6' 4" Weight: 225 lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Slider: 50 | Changeup: 50 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,459,700 There is something to be said about Vanderbilt when year in and year out they produce first round draft picks and STILL reload. Bowden is going to be added to the ever growing long list of first rounders. Bowden was primarily a reliever his first two seasons and got a taste of starting during the Cape Cod league last year. To say he excelled would be an understatement - 43K in 30 innings while allowing just one run. He did struggle a little this year in the starting role and became the closer to finish the regular season. His three pitch repertoire, solid build and durability really make him a great pick for the Braves. His 91-94 mph fastball jumps on hitters with the late life and sinker like action. Because of the lack of innings he has not built up the stamina to be able to carry the high mph deeper into games. His cutting changeup and curveball are great offspeed offerings that compliment his "get on you" fastball. We project him to be drafted as a reliever and solidify a back-end of an MLB rotation within the next few years. Rankings of Top College Prospects 45 Alec HansenSchool: Oklahoma Year: Junior Position: RHP Age: 21 DOB: 10/10/1994 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 7" Weight: 235 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013, 25th (739) - COL Scouting Grades: Fastball: 75 | Slider: 60 | Changeup: 55 | Control: 55 | Overall: 60 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,422,900 Alec Hansen is arguably the second best college draft prospect in this years draft. Hansen is armed with a 97+ fastball as a starter for the Sooners. How he can improve and make a huge splash this year is if he continues to improve his control and command. Similarly to Puk and Groome, Hansen is a big kid with a big time arm. Hansen has had an up and down season this year and is now working out of the 'pen. His command has suspect this as through 26 innings he has allowed 24BB with 38K. Though college guys who hit 96-98 range don't grow on trees so there is still a great chance he will go early in the draft. Get Alec Hansen Cards Rankings of Top College Prospects 46 Chad HockinSchool: Cal State Fullerton Year: Junior Position: RHP Age: 21 DOB: 10/7/1994 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 2" Weight: 200 lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Fastball: 65 | Slider: 55 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,386,900 Hockin was a solid relief pitcher heading into his Sophomore campaign at Cal State Fullerton and after a dominating year in college and a stunning summer with the prestigious Cape Cod League he has positioned himself as one of the top 50 arms available in this years draft. At 6'2", this right-hander works in the 92-94 range and touches 95 and an improving slider makes for a high ceiling and a solid 1-2 punch. He is expected to close this year for the Titans. His command will be the area that most scouts will focus, if he can manhandle bats in the Big West as the closer, has a real shot to become a quality prospect. Hockin's numbers and overall makeup are very similar to the Brewers third round selection in 2015, Cody Ponce (Cal Poly Ponoma). Solid control and lot's of swings and misses. This is a very safe pick for the Brewers who have traditionally been an "out of left field" drafters. Chad Hockin Scouting Report Rankings of Top College Prospects 47 Bailey ClarkSchool: Duke Year: Junior Position: RHP Age: 21 DOB: 12/3/1994 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 5" Weight: 210 lb. Previously Drafted: NEVER Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Slider: 55 | Changeup: 45 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,351,800 Some how Duke has quickly became very relevant for scouts to visit. Sure Coach K and the basketball team get all the headlines in Durham but the baseball team is starting to make a statement. With the last four years they have produced a first-rounder (Stroman and Matuella). Bailey continues the increasing Blue Devil trend as the A's grab the low investment, under-valued righty. Ok so why is he under-valued? His mid-90's heater droped to low 90's and after a shaky couple start to begin the season he was out of the rotation. And of course the 5.61 ERA does not scare anyone. The A's grab a reliever who can move fast through the system and help their bullpen within the next two years. His 97-99 fastball with great sink in short stints can be over-powering. Look at the A's pen, Doolittle has been a sensational arm for the last few years with really two pitches. I see Bailey fitting the same mold. He will spend time refining his curve, change and command in the minors but a 99 mph arm with command is tough to hit. Rankings of Top College Prospects 48 Cal QuantrillSchool: Stanford Year: Junior Position: RHPAge: 20 DOB: 10/2/1995 Bats: L Throws: R Height: 6' 3" Weight: 185 lb. Previously Drafted: 2013 26th (794) - NYY Scouting Grades: Fastball: 60 | Curve: 55 | Slider: 50 | Changeup: 55 | Control: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,317,800 I swear every time I read MLB.com assessment of Cal Quantrill I think"is Cal's dad paying you to write this"? To be candid, he's a better first-round talent option than the last few draft selections for the Cardinal (except maybe Appel but he has not lived up to his expectations either). Quantrill suffered an injury during his sophomore season (2015) and required Tommy John surgery. The slow process of rebuilding arm strength and muscle memory forced him to not pitch at all this season. Before the surgery he had a solid freshman campaign supported by a three-pitch menu. A low 90's heater, fringy slider and impressive change-up makes him a "wild-card"in this years draft. Being a son of a former big leaguer the stage does not scare him and his competitive nature makes him want to work hard to win. He's a 48-60 pick for this years draft. Oh, and before the draft last year MLB.com had Marc Brakeman as a top 10 selection and then changed it after the draft. Rankings of Top College Prospects 49 Avery TuckSchool: Steele Canyon(Calif.) HS HS Year: Senior Position: OF Age: 20 DOB: 6/29/1995 Bats: R Throws: R Height: 6' 5" Weight: 195 lb. Commitment: San Diego State Scouting Grades: Hit: 45 | Power: 55 | Run: 50 | Arm: 50 | Field: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,284,500 Tuck is one of the most intriguing high school power bats available in the 2016 MLB Draft class. He grew attention after a standout showing during a Perfect Game showcase in San Diego. His raw tools, line drive stroke and work ethic have given him a pretty high ceiling. Tuck has yet to be consistent as most first rounders have been but the rare combo of size, power and the ability to drive the ball to all fields puts him in the rare company. The White Sox have selected project players over the last few years, some have developed with success and others have not (Tim Anderson in the yes developed category and and Keon Barnumin the incomplete category.) His speed plays well for the corner outfield spots but he may end up being a first basemen in pro ball. It remains to be seen if he is fully committed to San Diego State as is his wish by his Dad or head to pro ball. We presume it all depends on where he gets drafted. Avery Tuck Scouting Report Get Avery Tuck Cards 50 Gio BrusaSchool: Pacific Year: Senior Position: OF Age: 22 DOB: 7/26/1993 Bats: S Throws: R Height: 6' 3" Weight: 215 lb. Previously Drafted: 2015, 23rd (701) - STL Scouting Grades: Hit: 45 | Power: 55 | Run: 50 | Arm: 50 | Field: 50 | Overall: 50 MLB Draft Slot Value$1,252,100 Gio Brusa is finally healthy in 2016 and showing why he is one of the top power bats available in this years draft. University of the Pacific had a change in coaching staff last off-season and Gio has thrived under the new regime this year by posting 10 homers and 11 doubles while driving in 35.The Cardinals thought that he might change his mind about graduating before beginning his pro career. A decision that has clearly proven valuable for him. As a switch-hitter that showcases tremendous bat speed from the left-side, he has only hit two career homers from the right side over his entire college career. Gio's ability to adjust from at-bat to at-bat shows his maturity and that he has a pretty good idea what he is doing at the plate. Brusa has performed well against higher level pitching including a 2-for-3 day with a HR against the top pitcher in the WCC St. Mary's Corbin Burnes. Defensively Gio grades well in right-field. Strong arm but not a cannon, reads the ball well but does not have burner speed. The Mariners get a strong, high character kid with a wonderful work ethic and a passion for the game. Gio Brusa Scouting Report Rankings of Top College Prospects 2016 MLB Draft Pool Team Money Reds $13,923,700 Phillies $13,405,200 Padres $12,869,200 Braves $12,385,200 Rockies $11,153,400 Athletics $9,883,500 White Sox $9,416,600 Brewers $9,364,300 Dodgers $9,336,500 Cardinals $9,143,300 Twins $8,153,500 Mets $7,671,700 Rays $7,643,100 Nationals $7,635,500 Team Money Orioles $7,545,800 Indians $7,499,600 Mariners $7,136,000 Pirates $7,007,900 Red Sox $6,997,400 Blue Jays $6,665,900 Marlins $6,445,900 Angels $6,120,500 Astros $5,928,300 Yankees $5,831,200 Tigers $5,424,300 DBacks $5,419,900 Rangers $5,358,500 Giants Royals Cubs $3,494,900 $3,225,300 $2,245,100
3comments Alan Roder - March 2, 2016 Lets get a look at OKC Univ. LH Pitcher Kenny Roder Reply Leave a reply: Cancel Reply Name* Email* Website Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Comment The 2015 MLB Mock Draft - MLB Top Prospects.com - May 16, 2016 […] Looking for the 2016 MLB Mock Draft – view it HERE […] Reply Leave a reply: Cancel Reply Name* Email* Website Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Comment Kyle Cody MLB Draft Prospect Profile [Scouting Report] - MLB Top Prospects.com - May 17, 2016 […] Prospect Details: Kyle MLB Draft Prospect Draft Expectation: Second Round 2016 View where Kyle Cody ranks in the MLB Mock Draft View the other Top College MLB Draft […] Reply Leave a reply: Cancel Reply Name* Email* Website Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Comment Click here to add a comment Leave a comment: Name * Email * Website Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Comment