It takes a while for draft picks – even highly-touted ones – to make an impact in the Major Leagues. For example, only a handful of 2009 first round selections have made it to the majors so far (Stephen Strasburg, Mike Minor, Drew Storen, Aaron Crow, Mike Leake and Alex White). That won't stop us from anticipating the next generation of MLB stars and looking ahead to this June's draft…
- Earlier today, MLBTR's Tim Dierkes pointed out a potential hidden gem for the draft: Montana high school outfielder Ben Roberts (Twitter link).
- Most scouts assume that the Royals will take local high school standout Bubba Starling if he's available when they select fifth overall, according to Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic (on Twitter).
- Starling, Virginia left-hander Danny Hultzen or UCLA right-hander Trevor Bauer could be selected within the first two picks of this year's draft, according to Jason A. Churchill of ESPN.com.
- Meanwhile, Texas right-hander Taylor Jungmann has seen his stock rise recently, while Connecticut right-hander Matt Barnes has seen his stock fall, according to Churchill.
- The Red Sox are showing interest in high school catcher Tyler Marlette, according to Jon Heyman of SI.com. Marlette is a defensive backstop who could be selected within the first two rounds of the draft.
the Royals Aaron Crow
Hopefully Tyler Marlette will become the next Joe Mauer. Here’s to wishfull thinking.
Did u not see the words “defensive catcher” Mauer is hardly a defensive catcher
Before his knees started to go Mauer was excellent. One year he threw out 53% of baserunners on steals.
That’s interesting about the Royals/Starling. Been a lot of contradictory info about whether they want him or not. Should be exciting to find out!
Bubba Starling is possibly the best athlete in this entire draft. I’m praying he stays healthy and takes MLB over Nebraska.
gerritt cole and trevor bauer for the first 2 picks (well, it would make a good story)
Here’s to Purke hopefully falling to the Rangers. Not anywhere near likely, but doesn’t hurt to hope
I was at the Royals game last night and Bubba Starling was there with his family in great seats. I guess they could’ve just been there by themselves, but I bet the Royals may have been wining and dining them a bit. I hope they take him.