SB Nation User Blog: Thundering Turtle

Going, going, Gomes gone.

Thundering Turtle — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 22:30:42 -0000

Mark Topkin of the St. Pete Times tweets that the Reds indeed non-tendered Jonny Gomes. I don't like it.

Some fairly interesting players being non-tendered today. Can Alfredo Amezaga be an answer at shortstop? How about Ryan Church in left field? Anyone want to take a chance on Scott Olsen? Seth McClung? Chien-Ming Wang? How about Neal Cotts? With Rolen on the River in the fold, Garrett Atkins probably isn't an option. No place for Kelly Johnson, either, and that's probably a good thing.

Three Reds in GCL top 20.

Thundering Turtle — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 21:31:53 -0000

Baseball America began its rankings of the top 20 players in the various minor leagues with the GCL. The Reds are well represented, with three players. Philadelphia, with four players, was the only organization with more.

Shortstop Billy Hamilton came in at No. 13. BA was impressed with his speed, arm and defense -- he led all GCL shortstops with a .955 fielding percentage. BA reported that Hamilton's switch-hitting is progressing, but he needs work on plate discipline. He struck out 47 times and walked 11. Hamilton's line was 0-11-.205 .253 .277 with 13 stolen bases in 16 attempts in 166 at bats. He is one of the faster runners in all of baseball.

Outfielder Yorman Rodriguez comes in at No. 16. BA loves Rodrguez's athletic ability, arm and smooth actions, but wonders if he'll hit. Rodriguez went 0-2-.274 .347 .421 and was 5-for-5 in stolen bases in 84 at bats before being promoted to Billings.

Rounding out the top 20 is personal favorite Daniel "Thundering" Tuttle, who drew praise for the armside run on his fastball, which sat in the 89-91 range while jumping to 94 once in a while. BA says Tuttle's off-speed stuff needs refinement, which a more consistent release point could help. Tuttle went 1-2 with a 1.67 ERA. In 9 games, 7 starts, and 32 innings, Tuttle struck out 30, walked 10 and gave up 32 hits. Foes batted .258.

Rookie league rankings often don't amount to much. Just two of the top 10 GCL players from five years ago hasvereached the majors and neither was in the top two. With that in mind, what's your ever-loving opinion on these guys?

With the 8th pick, the Cincinnati Reds select ...

Thundering Turtle — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 18:10:32 -0000

We are one day from the 2009 MLB First-Year Player Draft and don’t have a clear idea of which way the Reds will go with the eighth overall pick.

After the Nationals utter “Stephen Strasburg, right-handed pitcher, San Diego State” this turns into the most unpredictable draft in recent memory. Which future Jay Bruce or John Oliver will Cincinnati select? A better question for now is, which player do you prefer?

Using multiple sources, we’ll guess that the following players will be off the board:

Strasburg

Dustin Ackley, cf/1B, North Carolina

Aaron Crow, RHP, Fort Worth (independent)

Zach Wheeler, RHP, East Paulding HS

Tyler Matzek, LHP, Capistrano Valley HS

Alex White, RHP, North Carolina

Another guy from the list below likely will be gone, as well. Who is anybody’s guess. Speculation has the Reds sticking to, or near to, slot. If so, that probably eliminates HS OF Donovan Tate, HS RHP Jacob Turner, HS LHP Matthew Purke, and HS RHP Shelby Miller. That leaves six, unless the Reds pull a bit of a surprise:

n Kyle Gibson-RHP-Missouri. Touted as a better prospect than former Mizzou hurlers Max Scherzer and Aaron Crow, Gibson’s future is clouded by a stress fracture in his forearm that will sideline him until at least late July. When healthy, his fastball/slider combination makes him a great groundball/strikeout fit for GABP. His command and pitchability stand out. Would you roll the dice that his arm problems aren’t more serious than being promoted? His stats: 10-3, 3.47 ERA. 99 IP, 89 H, 123 K, 18 BB.

n Alex White-RHP-North Carolina. Struggled in the postseason until his most recent start when he was stellar. Has three plus pitches, but never at the same time. Talented but inconsistent, he could be a front-end starter or a back-end reliever. His stats: 7-4, 4.13 ERA. 85 IP, 73 H, 92 K, 34 BB.

n Tanner Scheppers-RHP-St. Paul (independent). Shoulder problems described as “significant wear and tear” cloud Schepper’s status. When healthy, only Strasburg is a better pitcher in this draft. Scheppers has thrown hard this spring, but hasn’t accumulated enough stats to make them worth posting.

n Grant Green-SS-USC. A slow start thanks to nagging injuries sent Green’s stock plummeting, but he bounced back to post a 4-32-.365/.436/.556 line with 16 SB. He has the most potential of any college MIF in the draft.

n Mike Leake-RHP-Arizona State. A small, but smart and athletic, groundball specialist, Leake is a competitor. Leake is among the most consistent players on the board. His stats: 14-1 1.24 ERA. 116 IP, 66 H, 118 K, 18 BB.

n Tim Wheeler-OF-Sacramento State. A plus-hitter with slightly above average power, Wheeler could be a fixture in LF and the middle of the batting order. His stats: 18-72-.385/.500./786 with 15 SB.

For me, it’s Gibson, Leake, Green or Wheeler, in that order. I’m happy with any of the four, but prefer the pitchers. Gibson’s injury doesn’t worry me, even if it’s an elbow that requires Tommy John surgery. Schepper’s shoulder, meanwhile, I just don’t trust.

2009 Draft Preview: High School Infielders

Thundering Turtle — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 15:49:35 -0000

Today we conclude our position-by-position look at the top prospects for the 2009 MLB First-year Player Draft with a gander at high school infielders. This isn’t a particularly deep nor talented crop. Signability issues abound, as well. Here’s a peep:

Bobby Borchering – 3B – Bishop Vereot HS, Fort Myers, Fla.

Borchering likely is a bit of a reach where the Reds pick in the first round, especially with the club’s minor league depth at the position. Borchering, though, is a good one. A 6-foot-4, 200-pound Florida recruit, Borchering can hit and has power. Strong, with excellent bat speed, Borchering projects to hit for power and average. Borchering’s glove has improved enough (he’s an average defender) to put him into consideration for the first round, although a move to first base still is a consideration. Such a switch would somewhat waste his strong arm, but would allow Borchering to concentrate more on his considerable hitting skills. Still, Borchering likely can fill out even more without losing athleticism.

During one nine-game stretch this season, Borchering slammed seven home runs. A switch-hitter, Borchering can turn on very good fastballs. A physical specimen, he hits the ball hard. Borchering is considered one of the safer picks among prep players in the draft.

Nick Franklin – SS – Lake Brantley HS, Altamonte Springs, Fla.

A switch-hitter who slammed 10 home runs this spring, Franklin is a fine hitter who uses the whole field. He has the bat speed to hit good velocity, although scouts doubt his power will carry over to hitting with wood. Franklin, an Auburn signee, has drawn comparisons to Felipe Lopez and Aaron Hill for his build and ability to run. Athletic, Franklin (6-1, 180) has an excellent chance to remain at shortstop, where his above average arm and slick footwork plays well. Franklin is highly regarded for his makeup. He is better going to his left than into the hole and is very adept at turning double plays, thanks to a quick transfer. A switch-hitter, he projects to hit for more power right-handed and more average from the left side. Franklin is a hard worker and vocal leader.

Jiovanni Mier – SS – Bonita HS, Pomona Calif.

High school shortstops often become pro second basemen or outfielders. Mier, however, projects to remain at shortstop thanks in part to a well-above-average arm that has registered 93 m.p.h. throws. A 6-2, 170-pound Southern California signee, Mier is a hard worker with outstanding character. His brother Jessie is a catcher in the Dodgers organization. Mier is athletic and solid defensively, although pro instruction figures to help him become smoother in the field. Mier has been a mixed bag at the plate, ranging from spectacular to struggling. Mier swings a quick bat and, if he can better adjust to breaking pitches, figures to be a line drive hitter as a pro.

Mychal Givens – SS – Plant HS, Tampa, Fla.

Hitter or pitcher? That’s the decision teams must make in evaluating Givens, who has scouts split. His fastball has been clocked at 97, but some teams see him as a reliever who has more value as a position player. Givens doesn’t strike out as many as scouts would like, despite his heater and an impressive slider. A strong, toolsy player, Givens possesses power potential and might be able to stay at shortstop, thanks to solid range and fast-twitch actions. An Oklahoma State signee, Givens is considered signable if taken in the first three rounds. Smart and hard-working with great character, Givens has starred with the bat since his freshman year. Some question whether he will hit for average.

Jeff Malm – 1B – Gorman HS, Las Vegas

A left-handed batter, Malm is a tremendous hitter who slammed 15 home runs this season. He has performed well for years, often against older competition. The question is, will Malm (6-3, 215) hit for power using wood? A college or pro weight program could do wonders for Malm, who is limited to first base. Despite his strong arm, scouts say Malm playing the outfield is out of the question, so he’ll need to produce with the bat to have high-round value. Malm could be difficult to sign away from Southern California. The all-time national high school hit king, Malm has helped Gorman to four consecutive state titles.

David Renfroe – SS – South Panola HS, Batesville, Miss.

Another two-way prospect, Renfroe could star as a hitter and a pitcher at Ole Miss. Renfroe (6-3, 190) is a pro prospect on the mound and with the bat, but prefers to hit. He is considered signable if taken in the first three rounds, although Ole Miss regards him as its most important recruit in years. Renfroe brings an advanced hitting approach, average power and the ability to hit with wood. Defensively, he is smooth enough to remain at shortstop in college and possibly as a pro. A shift to third base is not out of the question. He has plenty of arm. The Yankees are known to have followed Renfroe heavily. A fine athlete, Renfroe quarterbacked South Panola’s powerful football team.

Deven Marrero – SS – American Heritage HS, Plantation, Fla.

The brother of touted Nationals minor leaguer Chris Marrero, Deven Marrero is one of the most highly scouted players in the country, thanks to the talent on his high school team the last four years. Marrero has the defensive chops to remain at shortstop, as his skills rate excellent. A long swing needs to be corrected and Marrero figures to have much more hitting ability than he presently shows. Scouts opine that his power will develop. An average runner, Marrero features a plus arm, better than average hands and smooth actions in the field. An Arizona State signee, Marrero is thought to be an extremely difficult sign.

Chris Owings – SS – Gilbert (S.C.) HS

A South Carolina signee, Owings is rising up draft boards because he can hit and has a chance to stay at shortstop. Some compare Owings to White Sox 2008 first-rounder Gordon Beckham for his quick bat, strong hands and ability to hit, although Beckham possesses more power. Owings, a plus runner, hits the ball hard and is solid defensively. Scouts are split. They love the tools more than the player as a whole. Some see Owings as a shortstop, others have him solidly at second base. Some see him as a second rounder, others have him going in the fifth.

David Nick – SS – Cypress HS

Less likely to stay at shortstop, the athletic Nick figures to make a fine second baseman as a pro, as his arm is a bit short, as is his range. He has the tools to play an average second base, drawing comparisons to Giants 2007 supplemental rounder Nick Noonan. A line-drive hitter, Nick (6-2, 175) allows balls to get deep in the hitting zone before unleashing an extraordinarily quick bat. Nick, a UCLA recruit, figures to have above average speed and power and to hit for a high average. He is said to have tremendous makeup. Nick also is said to, wait for it, here it comes, play the game the right way.

Stephen Perez – SS – Gulliver Prep, Miami

Despite being just 5-10, 160, Perez has some pop in his bat. A Miami signee, Perez is a switch-hitter with a quick bat and a balanced stance. Perez has plenty of arm for shortstop, but lacks range, meaning a move to second is likely. Perez also must learn to recognize his limitations, as he often tries to hit home runs rather than use the entire field. Perez doesn’t project to get a lot bigger and he’s a fringy runner. He could be a difficult sign. The opposite of Owings, scouts like Perez’s overall package more than his tools.

Others to watch: Derek Dennis, SS, Forest Hills Central HS, Grand Rapids, Mich.; Scooter Gennett, SS, Sarasota (Fla.) HS; Jonathan Singleton, 1B, Millikan HS, Long Beach, Calif.

Draft Preview: High School Outfielders

Thundering Turtle — Sat, 30 May 2009 16:42:09 -0000

We’re coming down the stretch to the wonderful, ever expanding three-day event that is the MLB First-Year Player Draft, also affectionately known to all as the Rule 4 Draft. With that, let’s have a gander today at high school outfielders. Plenty of talent to go around, here. Remember, a lot can change between now and June 9. Here’s a look:

Donovan Tate – Cartersville (Ga.) HS

Possibly the premier athlete in the draft crop, Tate is enticing. While his athletic ability is ahead of his baseball skills, Tate’s plenty good enough to be rightly considered in the top three picks. Tate could last much longer, however, as he is a Scott Boras client with a scholarship to North Carolina … for baseball AND football. His dad is former Tampa Bay Buccaneer Lars Tate. If Tate sticks with baseball, he could blossom into a superstar. Until then, his bat can use some work, as he strikes out a bit more often than scouts would like and he could stand to be more patient at the plate.

Tate (6-foot-3, 200 pounds) has outstanding bat speed and potential to hit for power from the right side. He has shown the ability to adjust at the plate. If the bat comes around as projected, Tate could be a prize. He plays Gold Glove-caliber defense in center field, features an above average arm and is a plus-plus runner. His 6.34 60-yard dash time is impressive. He has been clocked throwing at 95 m.p.h.

Tate figures to be a difficult sign. A team will have to go well over slot to get him, but he figures to gain little (depending upon the economy in three years) by going to college as he is worthy of a top-3 selection now.

Everett Williams – McCallum HS, Austin, Texas

Williams (5-10, 200) is a premier athlete and features a better present bat than does Tate. Williams reportedly has hit a ball 500 feet. Left-handed, Williams is strong and has a quick bat that gives him power to all fields. While not a star with the glove in center, Williams has the tools to remain there and the bat to move to a corner, likely left as his arm is described as fringe-average. Williams signed at Texas and will need plenty of coin to give up that scholarship to his hometown school. Williams’ cousin, Cedric Allen, was a Reds farmhand from 1994 through 1996. Two of Williams’ aunts are in the softball hall of fame and his dad played for the Houston Oilers.

Williams has excellent character. The biggest knock on him is that he doesn’t always play as hard as scouts would like.

Reymond Fuentes – Callego HS, Manati, P.R.

At 6-foot, 160, Fuentes needs to put on weight, but he has exciting tools. Fuentes is strong for his size. A left-handed hitter, Fuentes has 6.3-second speed and knows how to use it. Fuentes recognizes his strengths and plays to them. Fuentes has center field range, but a below average arm. He figures to be an outstanding leadoff hitter. A cousin of Carlos Beltran, Fuentes has rapidly climbed draft boards thanks to a series of impressive workouts of late.

Randal Grichuk – Lamar Consolidated HS, Rosenburg, Texas

An intriguing power hitter, Grichuk can mash. His quick hands and strong wrists have led to some massive home runs and plenty of them. If he learns to hit for more than pull power – and scouts think he will – Grichuck (6-foot, 195) could be an above average all-around hitter with tremendous power. Defensively, Grichuk fits in left field as a pro, thanks to below average speed and a fringe-average arm. An Arizona signee, Grichuk, a star in the 2004 Little League World Series, isn’t expected to be a particularly difficult sign in the first three rounds.

Todd Glaesmann – Midway HS, Waco, Texas

A potential five-tool player, Glaesmann has come on strong this spring. Thumb surgery set him back last fall, but he shows no signs of it being a problem. A line-drive hitter and bit of a projection pick, Glaesmann’s 6-4, 205-pound frame has scouts thinking he will develop more power. Glaesmann has speed and arm strength, but as he matures he could be a better fit in right field than in center. He also has played a little first base and some third. Athletic, Glaesmann is patient at the plate, although his swing sometimes gets long. A Texas A&M signee, Glaesmann has been compared to Drew Stubbs.

Levon Washington – Buchholz HS Gainesville, Fla.

Washington is recovering from rotator cuff surgery that significantly sapped his arm strength. In fact, he is said to possess the weakest arm of any of the top outfield prospects available, a shame since he threw 92 m.p.h. pre-injury. Washington, though, can hit and run. His 6.2 time in the 60 is spectacular. Washington, a lefty, features bat speed, but not much power. His defense needs work, as he relies on his speed to make up for errors in judging the ball off the bat. Washington (5-10, 170) has signed with Florida. His baseball development was set back a bit by spending three years on Guam, where his dad was stationed with the military.

Mike Trout – Milville (NJ) HS

How much a team believes in Trout’s bat will determine where he is selected. An East Carolina signee, Trout’s value greatly has risen the last few weeks. Poor weather made seeing him difficult early in the season. When he did get on the field, scouts saw a player who hits hard line drives to all fields. Trout has struggled against breaking stuff in the past, but improved this spring. Trout’s 6.5 time in the 60 draws attention and combines with a strong arm to convince scouts he can remain in center field. Trout’s strength generates excellent bat speed, although his swing sometimes gets long. Trout is a scout’s favorite for his makeup and grit. He draws comparisons to Aaron Rowand.

Brian Goodwin – Rocky Mount (N.C.) HS

What to make of Goodwin is the question scouts face. Very athletic, Goodwin took a step back this spring. He then signed on with Scott Boras, making buying out his commitment to North Carolina likely a lot steeper. Goodwin (a very solid 6-foot, 185) has above average speed and all his tools project as above average, although he lacks present power scouts would like to see. A left-handed hitter, if Goodwin isn’t picked in the first two rounds, he could fall completely out of the draft.

Jake Marisnick – Poly HS, Riverside, Calif.

Marisnick is toolsy and projectable. Standing 6-4, 200 pounds, he is regarded by many as the best athlete among baseball players in Southern California. An Oregon recruit, Marisnick runs a 6.7 60 and has a 36-inch vertical leap. Marisnick plays center, but more likely will be a right fielder as a pro, thanks in part to a tremendous arm, and because he likely will fill out and lose some speed. Marisnick’s hitting mechanics need work, leaving his bat as a bit of question.

Slade Heathcott – Texas HS, Texarkana, Texas

A high-round prospect as an outfielder and as a left-handed pitcher, Heathcott (6-1, 195) is an LSU signee and a throw-back player in the Ryan Freel mold. Off-season surgery to repair a torn ACL set Heathcott back, then he injured a shoulder, relegating him to DH. Heathcott is a five-tool player when healthy. His bat and speed rate as plus. His range is at least average, while his arm is above average. As a pitcher, he throws 88-92 and has touched 94. His curve is promising, but there is a lot of effort in his delivery. Heathcott hits to all fields. Reportedly, character issues are a concern to scouts.

Others to watch: Jacob Stewart, Rocky Mountain (Col.) HS; Billy Hamilton, Taylorsville (Miss.) HS; Kyrell Hudson, Evergreen HS, Vancouver, Wash.; Trayce Thompson, Santa Margarita (Calif.) HS; Ruben Sierra, Jr., San Juan (P.R.) Educational School; Reggie Williams, Jr., Brooks-DeBartelo Collegiate HS, Tampa, Fla.; Cohl Walla, Lake Travis HS, Austin, Texas.

BA says Reds to take Scheppers.

Thundering Turtle — Sat, 30 May 2009 05:27:00 -0000

Baseball America has the Reds switching from one independent league pitcher (Aaron Crow) to another (Tanner Scheppers) in the rapidly approaching first-year player draft.

Scheppers, you might remember, was the ace of Fresno State's College World Series championship team last season before being a supplemental round choice of the Pittsburgh Pirates, going 48th overall. He was considered a top-10 pick before a shoulder injury dropped him into an area where he wasn't going to sign.

Ah, the shoulder injury. Initially reported as a stress fracture, it later was updated to wear and tear. Scheppers worked out for the Buccos, but his velocity had not returned and Pittsburgh wasn't going to pay seven figures for a pitcher with a balky shoulder. Thus, Scheppers opted for the St. Paul Saints of the American Association, where he has been impressive, but hittable as he shakes off the rust.

Scheppers, 6-foot-4, 200 pounds, has bounced back nicely, throwing 95 and displaying a terrific curve, although his control isn't yet where he would like it. Dr. Lewis Yocum, the doc for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in Southern California near Disney North of San Diego or whatever they're called this week, wrote a letter to all 30 teams informing them that Scheppers' shoulder is fine.

BA has Strasburg, Dustin Ackley, Crow, Kyle Gibson, Tyler Matzek and Zack Wheeler going ahead of Scheppers, whom some scouts rate behind only San Diego State phenom Stephen Strasburg. Others are leary of the shoulder.

Scheppers could be a steal, a quick-moving front-of-the-rotation stud who could give Cincinnati potentially the premier rotation in the league. He also could be a sore-shouldered flop who never makes it past AA, except to visit the surgeon every other year.

So, if you're running the Reds draft, do you draft Scheppers? What say you?

Draft Preview: High School Pitchers.

Thundering Turtle — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:32:00 -0000

As the draft rapidly approaches, let’s continue our previews with a look at the top high school pitchers. This is a deep and talented crop. A team with extra picks could acquire a bevy of talented arms from this draft. High school stats often are misleading and at times just plain incorrect, so take them for what they’re worth. Remember, a lot can happen between now and draft day. Here’s a look-see:

Jacob Turner-RHP, Westminster Christian Academy, St. Louis

The premier high school righty in the draft, Turner rapidly has moved up draft boards and might have passed Missouri standout Kyle Gibson in the eyes of some scouts. A Scott Boras client who has signed with North Carolina, Turner is rumored to be seeking a $7 million signing bonus. Turner (6-foot-5, 205 pounds) consistently throws 92-94 from a three-quarters arm slot that makes his fastball appear even quicker. He has touched 98. Turner throws a big-breaking curve that he sometimes struggles to command. He repeats his delivery very well. Turner has been tutored by former big leaguers Todd Worrell, Andy Benes and Mike Matheny.

Tyler Matzek-LHP-Capistrano Valley HS, Mission Viejo, Calif.

Some scouts prefer Matzek to any high school pitcher available. A late bloomer, Matzek signed with Oregon’s fledgling program. He has drawn comparisons to Cole Hamels for his easy arm action, intelligence and stuff. Matzek generally throws his fastball 90-93 and has touched 94. His curve breaks sharply. His command can at times elude him a bit, but overall he is solid and shows potential for a change up and a slider. At times Matzek elevates pitches out of the zone, but pro instruction should help smooth his mechanics.

Shelby Miller-RHP-Brownwood (Texas) HS

The 6-3, 205-pound Miller is the latest in a long line of Texas prep pitchers to have scouts salivating. His fastball typically ranges from 92 to 93, but has hit 96 and is regarded by some as the best in the draft because of its tremendous life. Miller throws downhill with a smooth delivery and easy arm action. A hard worker, Miller also throws a curve with plus potential, if he commands it better. An all-state football player as a tight end, Miller has signed with Texas A&M, but is unlikely ever to see Aggie Land as he projects to go in the top 15 picks.

Zach Wheeler-RHP-East Paulding HS, Dallas, GA.

Some scouts view Wheeler as the top prep pitcher available. No matter, he likely will be a top 10 selection. Scouts love the projection in his lanky, long-limbed frame. Wheeler, whose brother Adam is a former Yankees farmhand, throws in the low 90s, hitting 94 from time to time. His mechanics suggest he will have at least average command. Wheeler’s curve is more of a slurve, but it’s a good one and for some grades as a plus pitch. Wheeler has signed at Kennesaw State and is considered quite signable.

Matt Purke-LHP-Klein HS, Spring, Texas

Purke throws amazingly hard for a left-hander, consistently in the 92-95 range. His slider might be the best of any high school hurler available. He would benefit from adding a change up. Purke’s signability is a question. He is committed to Texas Christian. Purke has a deceptive low-three-quarters delivery and slings the ball, giving his pitches added life. His delivery, however, has more effort than scouts like. Purke features outstanding makeup.

Tyler Skaggs-LHP-Santa Monica (Calif.) HS

Skaggs is a likely first rounder based on projection. Some believe he will throw 95 m.p.h. as he matures and fills out his 6-4, 180-pound frame. Skaggs, who throws in the upper 80s to low 90s, has starred on the national showcase stage and has outpitched more heralded hurlers. He is extremely tough on left-handers because of his fastball’s armside run. Skaggs incorporates his legs well into his delivery. His curve is intriguing, while his change and slider are developing. Skaggs is committed to Cal State-Fullerton.

Garrett Gould-RHP-Maize (Kansas) HS

Gould (6-4, 200) struck out 95 in 57 innings and didn’t just blow hitters away. Although is fastball sits in the low 90s and has touched 94, it’s his curve that has scouts excited. Gould has some effort to his delivery, which concerns some scouts. Gould is athletic and also plays right field. He is expected to be a two-way standout at Wichita State if he doesn’t sign to play pro ball.

Chad James-RHP-Yukon (Okla.) HS

A hard worker, James has improved dramatically this season. His fastball has touched 95, but typically is in the 91-92 range. James (6-4, 205) features a curve that at times is a plus pitch but is inconsistent. His change up is advanced. Very athletic, James is an Oklahoma State signee. His brother, Justin, you might remember, was acquired by the Reds from the Blue Jays for Buck Coats.

Brody Colvin-RHP-More HS, Lafayette, La.

Colvin is more of a project. Scouts love his 94 m.p.h. heat, but his mechanics need work. At 6-4, 190, even more velocity is deemed possible. Colvin’s fastball already moves so much that he has difficulty controlling it. So dialing down his velocity actually might make him a better pitcher. His curve ranks among the best in the draft when he’s on. Athletic, Colvin is an LSU signee.

Madison Hobgood-RHP-Norco (Calif.) HS

An imposing 6-4, 245, Hobgood has thrived against strong competition. His stuff is raw, but impressive as his fastball has hit 95. Hobgood typically pitches 90-94 and maintains velocity deep into games, boosting his stock because he could remain a starter. If not, some think he could be a dominating reliever. Starter is more likely, as Hobgood features a sharp curve with late break and aptitude for a change and a slider. Command is Hobgood’s biggest issue.

Others to watch: Madison Younginer-RHP-Mauldin (S.C.) HS; Zach Von Rosenberg-RHP-Zachary (La.) HS; Keyvius Sampson-RHP-Forest HS, Ocala, Fla.; Dylan Floro-RHP-Buhach Colony HS, Atwater, Calif.; Michael Heller-RHP-Mooney HS, Sarasota, Fla.; Bryan Berglund-RHP-Royal HS, Simi Valley, Calif.

BA predicts Reds to eat, er, take Crow.

Thundering Turtle — Fri, 15 May 2009 15:49:53 -0000

Baseball America's first mock draft is out. BA predicts Cincinnati to select Aaron Crow, a RHP from the independent league Ft. Worth Cats.

Crow, you probably remember, starred at Missouri and was selected ninth overall last year by the Washington Nationals. The Nats failed to reach an agreement with Crow, who asked for $4 million and was offered $3.3.

Crow is a quality pitcher, having gone 13-0 with a 2.35 ERA as a junior at Missouri. He struck out 127 in 107 IP and was named Big 12 Conference pitcher of the year. Crow throws 92-96 and has touched 98. He commands well a fastball with hard sink and maintains his velocity. Crow's slider is a plus pitch, too, but he sometimes falls in love with it too much. Crow has a developing change-up he'll need if he is to be a MLB starter. While Crow's delivery concerns some scouts because of the effort involved, he keeps the ball down and works both sides of the plate. He reportedly has thrown well this spring for Ft. Worth.

The Reds haven't drafted a pitcher in the first round since Homer Bailey, selecting position players Jay Bruce, Drew Stubbs, Devin Mesoraco and Yonder Alonso since. Interestingly, Cincinnati had taken four consecutive pitchers -- Jeremy Sowers, Chris Gruler, Ryan Wagner and Bailey -- before the run on bats.

BA's predicted top seven picks are:

1. Washington -- Stephen Strasburg, RHP, San Diego State

2. Seattle -- Dustin Ackley, OF/1B, North Carolina

3. San Diego -- Grant Green, SS, Southern California

4. Pittsburgh -- Kyle Gibson, RHP, Missouri

5. Baltimore -- Alex White, RHP, North Carolina

6. San Francisco -- Donovan Tate, OF, Cartersville (Ga.) HS

7. Atlanta -- Zach Wheeler, RHP, East Paulding (Ga.) HS

Debate at will.

Draft Preview: High School Catchers

Thundering Turtle — Tue, 12 May 2009 19:18:04 -0000

Once again, thanks to TT for doing these previews leading up to the draft! A job well done! - BK

Let’s continue our look at the 2009 MLB Draft by checking out high school catchers. Unlike its college counterpart, this is a deep and talented class. Keep in mind that much can change before June and that high school stats can be difficult and inaccurate. Here’s a gander:

Max Stassi – Yuba City (Calif.) HS

Stassi certainly has the bloodlines. His great-uncle Myril Hoag played 12 years with the Yankees, alongside some guy named Ruth. Stassi’s brother plays at Nevada-Reno, while his dad, grandfather and another uncle played pro ball. Somewhat undersized at 5-foot-10, 190 pounds, Stassi is an excellent hitter, posting a line of 15-45-.471. His bat speed is at least average. A UCLA recruit, Stassi is known as a baseball rat. He is an honor student and is very driven. A take-charge player, Stassi runs well for a catcher and has endeared himself to scouts with his makeup.

Wil Myers – Wesleyan Christian Academy, High Point, N.C.

Myers is a solid hitter, but at 6-3, 190 he might grow out of the tools of ignorance. Myers’ versatility could allow for that, as he is a fine third baseman. He also has played first base, shortstop and pitches, where his 87 m.p.h. fastball shows off his throwing arm. Myers, a South Carolina recruit, is aggressive at the plate. He has 8 home runs and a .647 batting average. He is expected to be a difficult sign.

Luke Bailey – Troup HS, LaGrange, GA.

Bailey had Tommy John surgery earlier this month, clouding his draft status. Bailey has grown from 6-foot, 175 last season to more than 200 pounds. A tough kid – he played with a broken rib for several games last year – Bailey is fearless and shows strong leadership skills. Bailey hit 13-61-.505 and recorded times ranging from 1.83 to 2.07 in throwing to second. Bat speed is a bit of a question and he tends to swing and miss while trying to hit home runs. He is athletic and is an Auburn recruit.

Austin Maddox – Eagle’s View Academy, Jacksonville, Fla.

A 6-3, 225-pounder, Maddox has touched 91 off the mound. He could be a two-way player at Florida. Maddox put up a line of 12-67-.515 last season. He sometimes tends to have too much uppercut in his swing. An honor student, Maddox is thick yet agile, although he might have to watch his weight. Maddox has one of the stronger arms in the nation and can hit a ball a long way. He strikes out quite a bit, too, but has excellent bat speed.

Geno Escalante – Rodriguez HS, Fairfield (CA)

Very intelligent, Escalante signed with Cal State-Fullerton. His strengths are defense and his arm, as he batted just .308 as a junior after hitting .411 as a sophomore. He lacks power. Escalante was a standout running back, but baseball is his future.

Andrew Susac – Jesuit HS, Roseville, Calif.

The only switch-hitter among the top 10 – everyone else hits right-handed – Susac is 6-1, 190 and is known for his intelligence. Susac could be tough to sign away from Oregon State. A former bat boy for the St. Louis Cardinals, Susac’s confidence has grown considerably from last year. He has outstanding makeup to go with a line of 6-33-.475. Exceedingly polite, Susac hits strong pitching well.

Michael Zunino – Mariner HS, Cape Coral, Fla.

We might have a winner, here. Zunino’s dad Greg has been a Reds scout for 22 years. His godfather, though, works in the front office of the Chicago Cubs. A defensive standout, Zunino is a Florida recruit. Zunino added 20 pounds and now is 6-foot, 185. He also plays third base and the outfield. Zunino has above average speed for a catcher and has impressive power and a plus arm.

Cameron Garfield – Murrieta Valley HS, Murrieta, Calif.

Garfield’s pop time to second base consistently sits at 1.88 seconds. He features a powerful bat and improved his stock considerably over last season. A University of San Diego recruit, Garfield can throw, block, catch and hit. He has earned comparisons to Jason Kendall with more power. Garfield has 7 home runs and a .444 batting average. The Marlins have shown a lot of interest. Garfield figures to be at least average in every area.

Tucker Barnhart – Brownsburg (Ind.) HS

Barnhart is listed anywhere from 5-9 to 5-11 and 170 pounds, meaning he’ll need to bulk up to handle the rigors of pro ball behind the plate. He also plays second base. A Georgia Tech signee, Barnhart’s pop time to second base is an impressive 1.76 seconds. His catch-and-throw abilities are among the best in the draft, particularly his exchange. A strong student, Barnhart is a line drive hitter who posted a line of 10-39-.417. He also plays third base and could be even better as an infielder than as a catcher.

2009 Draft Preview: College Catchers

Thundering Turtle — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 01:31:55 -0000

It’s been a while since we’ve had a draft preview, so today I’m offering a look at college catchers. While the high school crop is deep and talented, the college backstop cupboard is nearly bare after the first couple of players. Here’s a look, with the reminder that a lot can change between now and June:

Tony Sanchez – Boston College

The most complete college catcher in the draft, Sanchez is rocketing up draft boards. The 6-foot-1, 220-pound junior has a line of 12-37-.366 .459 .686 this season. A right-handed hitter, he has a 29:20 K:BB ratio and a .987 fielding percentage. Sanchez has thrown out 36 percent of attempted base stealers.

Ryan Ortiz – Oregon State

The 6-3, 185-pound junior bats from the right side and does it well, putting up 5-55-.351 .442 .527 last season, then hitting a respectable .274 in the Cape Cod League last summer. This season, Ortiz has a 1-25-.374 .450 .476 line and is a doubles machine. Ortiz features a sterling .996 fielding percentage and has just one error in 32 games, while nailing 12 of 24 attempted base stealers.

Josh Phegley – Indiana

Scouts aren’t sure what to make of the 5-11, 215-pound right-handed hitting junior. Phegley features a crouched stance somewhat similar to Pete Rose. While he hits well from it and it helps him lay off bad pitches, the approach saps his bat speed, leading scouts to wonder how he’ll hit with wood bats. Phegley had no problems last season, as his .438 batting average was second nationally only to Buster Posey. This season, Phegley has not been as strong at the plate, going 9-46-.374 .478 .647. He has walked 27 times and struck out 23. Phegley’s defense is a concern, as he tends to lose focus, not an endearing trait for a catcher. He has a .981 fielding percentage. After allowing 11 passed balls last year, he has just three in 2009. Phegley has caught 22 percent of attempted base stealers.

Landon Hernandez – Hawaii

A 50th-round pick by Detroit last year, the 6-1, 215-pound senior hits from the right side. His 6-16-.277 .393 .482 line doesn’t excite many, but his defense does. Hernandez has a .991 fielding percentage and just two errors all season, during which he has caught 37 percent of attempted base stealers.

Trevor Coleman – Missouri

The Reds selected Coleman in the 38th round of the 2006 draft, but he opted for college. A 6-1, 215-pound junior right-handed hitter, Coleman has put up a line of 4-35-.295 .417 .416. He has walked 29 times and struck out 22. Coleman’s dad is a former pro tennis player and that athleticism has been passed down. Still, Coleman has allowed eight passed balls and committed seven errors for a .978 fielding percentage this season. He has thrown out 22 percent of attempted base thieves.

Tommy Medica – Santa Clara

Medica would have strengthened the class, but shoulder surgery ended his season after nine games. The 6-1, 190-pound junior likely will still be drafted because he has one of the stronger arms available. He threw out 37 percent of attempted base swipers in the Cape Cod League last summer and batted .352. Medica also can play the outfield.

Diego Seastrunk – Rice

The 5-10, 180-pound junior is small and might eventually return to third base, his natural position. An unselfish right-handed hitter, Seastrunk has terrific hand-eye coordination, is intelligent and is a team player. His offense has suffered as he has adjusted to catching, as he has a line of 3-24-.296 .427 .452. Seastrunk has 37 walks and 20 whiffs to go with a .973 fielding percentage and seven passed balls. Seastrunk, though, has nabbed 35 percent of would be base stealers. If he can remain behind the plate, his value greatly increases.

Preston Clark – Texas

A 5-11, 215-pound senior who hits from the right side, Clark was highly regarded coming out of high school but has struggled with the Longhorns. A 33rd-round pick of the Cubs in 2007, Clark was a 39th-rounder of the Indians coming out of high school. Clark is known for his character. He has a miserable line of 0-9-.225 .326 .228 this season, but a 1.000 fielding percentage. Clark has thrown out 30 percent of attempted sack stealers.

Brett Basham – Mississippi

A 16th-round pick of the White Sox last year, the 6-2, 203-pound senior right-handed hitter is known for his intelligence and excellent defense. Basham’s dad played baseball at Tennessee, while his mom was a volleyball player at Carson-Newman. Basham has struggled at and behind the plate this year, posting a line of 1-9-.236 .236 .347. He has a .977 fielding percentage and has nabbed a mere 17 percent of attempted base larcenists.

Richard Jones – The Citadel

A 6-foot, 210-pound junior left-handed hitter, Jones has been impressive at the plate this season, posting a line of 11-45-.359 .429 .629. He strikes out about twice as often as he walks and has a .985 fielding percentage. Jones has caught just 14 percent of attempted base stealers this season.

Others to watch: Mychie Lugbaer – Maine, Jack Murphy – Princeton, Cody Stanley – North Carolina-Wilmington, Michael Thomas – Southern, Seth Furmanek – Oral Roberts, Austin Goolsby – Embry Riddle, Yan Gomes – Barry, Travis Tartamella – California State-Los Angeles.